Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of appropriately confirming whether various kinds of devices function normally.SOLUTION: A game machine comprises first detection means and second detection means, an informing mode for reporting each validity differs between a first period (period T1) and a second period (period T2), a function based on detection by the first detection means and the second detection means can be executed in at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function can be recognized in a mode different from any of informing modes during the first period and the second period when the function is executed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Some gaming machines, such as pachinko machines, allow you to check whether various devices (operation means, light emitting means, etc.) are functioning properly after turning on the power. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-040809 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The gaming machine of Patent Document 1 can confirm that an operating part functions normally by making a predetermined light-emitting means emit light in a manner corresponding to the operated operating part during an operation inspection period after powering on. Also, during this period, other light-emitting means and movable bodies perform predetermined operations, making it possible to confirm that each of them functions normally. However, there is still room for improvement in terms of realizing more appropriate operation checks.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and provides a gaming machine that can appropriately check whether various devices are functioning normally. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to the present invention, there is provided a gaming machine comprising first detection means and second detection means, wherein during a first period, the validity of detection by the first detection means is indicated by a first device entering a first mode, the validity of detection by the second detection means is indicated by the first device entering a second mode, during a second period that overlaps at least partially with the first period, the validity of detection by the first detection means is indicated by a second device different from the first device entering a third mode, and the validity of detection by the second detection means is indicated by the second device entering a fourth mode, a function based on detection by the first detection means is executable during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function is recognizable by the operation of a device different from at least one of the first device or the second device, and a function based on detection by the second detection means is executable during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function is recognizable by the operation of a device different from at least one of the first device or the second device. Further, according to the present invention, there is provided a gaming machine comprising first detection means and second detection means, wherein, during a first period, the validity of the detection of the first detection means is indicated by a first device entering a first mode, the validity of the detection of the second detection means is indicated by the first device entering a second mode, during a second period different from the first period, the validity of the detection of the first detection means is indicated by a second device different from the first device entering a third mode, and the validity of the detection of the second detection means is indicated by the second device entering a fourth mode, a function based on the detection of the first detection means is executable in at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function is recognizable by the operation of a device different from at least one of the first device or the second device, and a function based on the detection of the second detection means is executable in at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function is recognizable by the operation of a device different from at least one of the first device or the second device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a gaming machine is provided that can appropriately check whether various devices are functioning normally. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a pattern display device disposed in the area II shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a bird's-eye view showing the operation buttons and their surroundings arranged in the area III shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a gaming board installed in the gaming machine. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the gaming machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a control configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 8] Figure 8(a) is a diagram schematically showing a lottery table for determining whether a special symbol is a hit or not, Figure 8(b) is a diagram schematically showing a lottery table for drawing the stopping symbols used when a big hit is derived in the determination of whether a special symbol is a hit or not related to special symbol 1, Figure 8(c) is a diagram schematically showing a lottery table for drawing the stopping symbols used when a small hit is derived in the determination of whether a special symbol is a hit or not related to special symbol 2, and Figure 8(d) is a diagram schematically showing a lottery table for drawing the stopping symbols used when a big hit is derived in the determination of whether a special symbol is a hit or not related to special symbol 2. [Figure 9] Figure 9(a) is a diagram schematically showing a special chart variation pattern lottery table used in the pattern variation related to special chart 1 when in the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA, and Figure 9(b) is a diagram schematically showing a special chart variation pattern lottery table used when special chart variation pattern HNP is determined in the pattern variation related to special chart 1 when in the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA. [Figure 10] FIG. 10(a) is a state transition diagram showing the transition of the special chart variation pattern derivation state, and FIG. 10(b) is a diagram showing the relationship between the average variation time for each special chart variation pattern derivation state. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when power is restored with RAM clear processing. [Figure 12] FIG. 12(a) is a diagram showing the display state of the main display section 81 on the initial screen, and FIG. 12(b) is a diagram showing the display state of the main display section 81 on the examination screen. [Figure 13] Figure 13(a) is a diagram showing the notification mode of the frame lamp 35, Figure 13(b) is a diagram showing the notification mode of the inspection screen (main display unit 81), and Figure 13(c) is a diagram showing the notification mode of the speaker 33. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when a win occurs at the first starting hole 57 during the period when the inspection screen is displayed. [Figure 15]FIG. 15 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when the effect button 37 or cursor button 38 is operated during the period when the inspection screen is displayed. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when power is restored with RAM clear processing. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when the left cursor button 38c and the right cursor button 38d are simultaneously operated while the operation instruction screen is displayed. [Figure 18] Figure 18(a) is a diagram showing the display mode of the main display unit 81 on the initial screen, Figure 18(b) is a diagram showing the display mode of the main display unit 81 on the operation instruction screen, and Figure 18(c) is a diagram showing the display mode of the main display unit 81 on the examination screen. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when a win occurs at the first starting hole 57 during the period when the inspection screen is displayed. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when the effect button 37 or cursor button 38 is operated during the period when the inspection screen is displayed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all drawings, similar components are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted where appropriate. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the terms "front," "rear," "left," "right," "upper," and "lower" refer to the gaming machine 10 as viewed from the front side (player side) as shown in FIG. 1. In the following explanation, "advantage (degree of advantage)" refers to an advantage for the player, and further, unless otherwise specified, refers to an advantage in terms of the amount of prize balls (gaming media) obtained (including not only the payout of gaming balls but also the payout of medals), excluding aspects of presentation such as so-called premium images.

[0010] <Features of the present invention> Before describing the details of the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment, the features of the invention (present invention) described in this embodiment will be described. In addition, when explaining the features, the configuration in parentheses is an example of the configuration of this embodiment corresponding to the immediately preceding configuration, and the configuration may be described in parentheses for the same purpose in the explanation of the gaming machine 10 that follows this explanation.

[0011] The first aspect of the present invention is First detection means (sensor of the effect button 37); A second detection means (a sensor of the movable decorative body 22), Equipped with During the first period (period T1 shown in FIG. 11), the detection by the first detection means is valid when the first device changes to the first mode (output of SE1 by the speaker 33), and the detection by the second detection means is valid when the first device changes to the second mode (audio output of "The movable ornament is normal" by the speaker 33). During a second period (period T2 shown in FIG. 11) that overlaps at least partially with the first period, the detection by the first detection means is indicated as being valid by a second device different from the first device becoming a third mode (the display mode of the performance button display on the inspection screen displayed on the main display unit 81), and the detection by the second detection means is indicated as being valid by a second device becoming a fourth mode (the display mode of the movable ornament display on the inspection screen displayed on the main display unit 81). A function based on the detection by the first detection means (a change in the color of the light emitted by the built-in lamp of the effect button 37) can be executed in at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function can be recognized by the operation of a device (a built-in lamp of the effect button 37) different from at least one of the first device and the second device; The function based on the detection of the second detection means (vibration of the movable decorative body 22) can be executed in at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function can be recognized by the operation of a device (movable decorative body 22) different from at least one of the first device or the second device; This is a gaming machine characterized by the above.

[0012] The second invention is First detection means (sensor of the effect button 37); Second detection means (sensor of the sub-display unit 82); Equipped with During a first period (period T11 shown in FIG. 17 ), the validity of the detection by the first detection means is notified by the first device entering a first state (output of SE1 by the speaker 33), and the validity of the detection by the second detection means is notified by the first device entering a second state (audio output of “The sub-display unit is normal” by the speaker 33). In a second period (period T12 shown in FIG. 17) different from the first period, the detection by the first detection means is valid when a second device different from the first device changes to a third state (the display mode of the effect button display of the inspection screen displayed on the main display unit 81), and the detection by the second detection means is valid when the second device changes to a fourth state (the display mode of the sub-display unit display of the inspection screen displayed on the main display unit 81). A function based on the detection by the first detection means (a change in the color of the light emitted by the built-in lamp of the effect button 37) can be executed in at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function can be recognized by the operation of a device (a built-in lamp of the effect button 37) different from at least one of the first device and the second device; A function (movement of the sub-display unit 82) based on the detection by the second detection means can be executed in at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function can be recognized by the operation of a device (the sub-display unit 82) different from at least one of the first device and the second device. This is a gaming machine characterized by the above.

[0013] Here, "function based on detection by the first detection means" or "function based on detection by the second detection means" refers to a function that can be performed based on the respective detection during normal play (playable state). Furthermore, "when the function is executed, it is recognizable in a manner different from either the first or third manner" or "when the function is executed, it is recognizable in a manner different from either the second or fourth manner" means that a person can recognize that the function has been executed by focusing on an element different from the notification in the first and third manner or the notification in the second and fourth manner.

[0014] Since the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment has the above-mentioned features, it is possible to confirm the validity of each device in each of the first and second periods, and at the same time, it is also possible to confirm how the functions of the device are executed. Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 is configured so that each of the above contents can be recognized by a different device, which makes the inspection work easier.

[0015] The gaming machine 10 having the above-mentioned features will be specifically described based on the following embodiment.

[0016] <Structure of the gaming machine 10> First, the structure of the gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. Figure 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 10, Figure 2 is a diagram showing a pattern display device 90 arranged in area II shown in Figure 1, Figure 3 is a bird's-eye view showing a group of operation buttons arranged in area III shown in Figure 1 and their surroundings, Figure 4 is a diagram showing a gaming board 50 installed within the gaming machine 10, and Figure 5 is a rear view of the gaming machine 10. 1 to 5 are merely those necessary for explaining the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, and configurations and functions not shown here may be added to the gaming machine 10. Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 does not necessarily have to include all of the configurations shown here, and some configurations or functions may be omitted as long as the effects of the present invention are not impaired.

[0017] The gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is a so-called pachinko machine, in which gaming balls are shot into a front area (hereinafter referred to as "gaming area 50a") of a gaming board 50 on which a large number of gaming nails (not shown) are erected, and a prize ball is obtained when the gaming ball enters a prize opening (for example, a big prize opening 55, etc.). In the following description, the entry of a gaming ball into a prize opening may be simply expressed as "entering (a prize opening)."

[0018] The gaming machine 10 comprises a rectangular outer frame 15 that opens at the front and rear, a middle frame 17 that detachably holds a gaming board 50 on the front side of the opening of the outer frame 15, and a front frame 20 that is configured to cover the front side of the gaming board 50.

[0019] The middle frame 17 is supported so as to be rotatable about its left end by a hinge mechanism (not shown) on the same side as the hinge mechanism 21, and can be opened and closed in front of the outer frame 15. The middle frame 17 can be locked and unlocked by a cylinder lock 23 (by inserting a door key into the cylinder lock 23 and turning the door key in the direction opposite to the unlocking direction of the front frame 20 (to the right in this embodiment)).

[0020] The front frame 20 is supported by a hinge mechanism 21 so as to be rotatable around its left end, and can be opened and closed relative to the middle frame 17. The front frame 20 can be locked and unlocked by a cylinder lock 23 (by inserting a door key into the cylinder lock 23 and turning the door key in the direction opposite to the unlocking direction of the middle frame 17 (left in this embodiment)). The front frame 20 also includes a transparent member 25 arranged to cover the play area 50a, and the transparent member 25 protects the play area 50a and the play board 50 from view. The front frame 20 also includes an upper ball tray 27 and a lower ball tray 29 for storing game balls, and the upper ball tray 27 and the lower ball tray 29 are spaced apart vertically and are integral with the front frame 20. In this embodiment, a full-tank detection sensor (not shown) for detecting when the lower ball tray 29 is full with discharged game balls is provided upstream of the lower discharge port 30 that discharges game balls into the lower ball tray 29. In addition, the front frame 20 is provided with an operating handle 31 on the right side of the lower ball tray 29, and by rotating the operating handle 31, the game balls stored in the upper ball tray 27 are launched toward the game area 50a.

[0021] 1 to 5, the middle frame 17 has a middle frame open door sensor 76 that detects whether the middle frame 17 is in an open state or a closed state relative to the outer frame 15, and a front frame open door sensor 77 that detects whether the front frame 20 is in an open state or a closed state relative to the middle frame 17. In this embodiment, both of these door open sensors are ON in the open state and OFF in the closed state. However, these door open sensors may also be configured to be OFF in the open state and ON in the closed state. This allows the gaming machine 10 to detect both the open / closed state of the middle frame 17 relative to the outer frame 15 and the open / closed state of the front frame 20 relative to the middle frame 17.

[0022] 3, a group of operation buttons operated by the player is disposed on the upper surface of the upper ball tray 27. This group of operation buttons includes a main operation unit 39 electrically connected to the main control board 100 (described later), which includes a ball loan button 39a and a return button 39b for accepting a prepaid card return operation. Also, as an operation unit electrically connected to the first sub-control board 200 (described later), the group of operation buttons includes an effect button 37 for switching effects that occur during play or for accepting player operations to obtain various information related to the gaming machine 10, and cursor buttons 38 (up cursor button 38a, down cursor button 38b, left cursor button 38c, right cursor button 38d, and center cursor button 38e) for instructing up, down, left, and right operations. For example, the up cursor button 38a and the down cursor button 38b are used for menu selection and volume adjustment, the center cursor button 38c is used to confirm the selected menu, and the left cursor button 38c and the right cursor button 38d are used for brightness adjustment and song selection, etc. Each operation unit is provided with a sensor for detecting operation, and the control board to which it is connected detects the operation of each operation unit based on a change in the detection state of the sensor. In addition, multiple LEDs (not shown) are provided inside the effect button 37, each configured to emit light in a different color, and in an effect that prompts the user to operate the effect button 37 (so-called button operation effect), the light color of the effect button 37 may change when the operation is accepted.

[0023] In addition, a movable decorative body 22 that operates (vibrates) due to an actuator such as a motor (not shown) is provided on the side of the upper ball tray 27, and a sensor (not shown) is provided to detect whether or not the movable decorative body 22 is operating. Furthermore, a lamp made up of a full-color LED is provided inside the movable decorative body 22, which may light up during the execution of a specific effect (for example, an effect in which the movable decorative body 22 vibrates).

[0024] A ball ejection mechanism 36 is provided below the lower ball tray 29 to eject the game balls stored in the lower ball tray 29 downward. By operating this ball ejection mechanism 36, a bottom opening (not shown) formed on the bottom surface of the lower ball tray 29 opens, and the game balls fall naturally through the bottom opening and are ejected. Although not shown in the figure, the upper ball tray 27 is provided with a mechanism that, similar to the ball removal mechanism 36, can be operated to move the stored balls to the lower ball tray 29, and by operating both this mechanism and the ball removal mechanism 36, it is possible to discharge the stored balls.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 1, a pair of speakers 33 (33a, 33b) are disposed on the left and right sides of the upper frame portion 32 of the front frame 20. The upper frame portion 32 and the left and right side frame portions 34a, 34b of the front frame 20 are formed with light-transmitting covers, inside which are disposed frame lamps 35 (35a, 35b, 35c). The speaker 33 and the frame lamp 35 can emit sounds or turn on or off in conjunction with effects that occur during play, error notifications, and the like.

[0026] The effect display device 80 is composed of a main display unit 81 disposed approximately in the center of the game board 50, and a sub-display unit 82 disposed around the main display unit 81. The sub-display unit 82 further includes an upper sub-display unit 82a disposed above the main display unit 81, a left sub-display unit 82b disposed on the left side of the main display unit 81, and a right sub-display unit 82c disposed on the right side of the main display unit 81. Here, the main display unit 81 is a fixed liquid crystal display device, and the upper sub-display unit 82a, the left sub-display unit 82b, and the right sub-display unit 82c are movable liquid crystal display devices operated by actuators such as motors (not shown). Note that the upper sub-display unit 82a, the left sub-display unit 82b, and the right sub-display unit 82c are each provided with a sensor (not shown), which enables each sensor to detect whether they are in their original position or in a position after movement.

[0027] The main display unit 81 can display a changing display of a pattern row that is performed in conjunction with the changing display in the first special pattern display device 91 or the second special pattern display device 92 described below, and can also display various other effects. In the variable display of the symbol rows (decorative symbols) displayed on the main display unit 81, the displayed decorative symbols form three symbol rows. In this embodiment, the variable display direction of each symbol row is downward, but the direction is not particularly limited. For example, it may be upward, left / right, depthwise, or a combination of these (diagonal direction). Here, the depth direction refers to the virtual direction perceived by the player in a display mode that uses a method (for example, perspective) that makes the player perceive the pattern row as if it is changing from the back of the main display unit 81 to the front or vice versa, even though it is actually a flat changing display on the display screen of the main display unit 81. In addition, the decorative symbols in this embodiment include a "1 symbol" imitating the number "1," a "2 symbol" imitating the number "2," a "3 symbol" imitating the number "3," a "4 symbol" imitating the number "4," a "5 symbol" imitating the number "5," a "6 symbol" imitating the number "6," a "7 symbol" imitating the number "7," an "8 symbol" imitating the number "8," and a "9 symbol" imitating the number "9," and these symbols are provided in each symbol row. In the following description, the "1 symbol," "3 symbol," "5 symbol," "7 symbol," and "9 symbol" may be collectively referred to as "odd number symbols," and the "2 symbol," "4 symbol," "6 symbol," and "8 symbol" may be collectively referred to as "even number symbols."

[0028] Each of the sub-display units 82 is not only provided to mainly display effect images related to the effects, but is also configured to be movable. The initial positions of the top sub-display unit 82a are on the upper side relative to the main display unit 81, the left sub-display unit 82b are on the left side relative to the main display unit 81, and the right sub-display unit 82c are on the right side relative to the main display unit 81. Each of the sub-display units 82 is configured to be movable from these initial positions to a position where the entire display area of ​​the sub-display unit 82 overlaps the display area of ​​the main display unit 81 as a specific effect is executed. However, even when the sub-display units 82 (particularly the left sub-display unit 82b and the right sub-display unit 82c) are in the initial position shown in FIG. 4, approximately the upper half of the display area (a left display area 821 and a right display area 822, which will be described later) is visible to the player.

[0029] A plurality of light emitting diodes (hereinafter referred to as "LEDs") are arranged on the lower right side of the main display unit 81, and these LEDs form the display area of ​​the pattern display device 90, which displays special patterns and normal patterns. In addition, the symbol display device 90 is disposed in a position that is more difficult for the player to see than the main display unit 81, and the display area of ​​the symbol display device 90 is smaller than the display area of ​​the main display unit 81. In addition, the arrangement and number of LEDs for the pattern display device 90 in this embodiment are as shown in Figure 2, but this is just one example, and the arrangement and number of LEDs for the pattern display device 90 are not limited to this example.

[0030] The special symbols are symbols that are stopped and displayed as a result of a symbol change that determines whether or not to activate a special electric device (for example, special electric device 65). The special symbols in this embodiment include a first special symbol displayed on first special symbol display device 91 and a second special symbol displayed on second special symbol display device 92. The special design may be abbreviated as "Special Design", the first special design as "Special Design 1", and the second special design as "Special Design 2".

[0031] The normal symbol is a symbol that is stopped and displayed as a result of a symbol change that determines whether or not to activate a normal electric device (for example, normal electric device 61). The normal symbol in this embodiment is displayed on the normal symbol display device 93. In addition, normal patterns are sometimes abbreviated as "Fuzu", and normal electric devices are sometimes called "Denchu".

[0032] In addition to the above-mentioned display devices, the symbol display device 90 is provided with a first special symbol reservation lamp 94, a second special symbol reservation lamp 95, and a normal symbol reservation lamp 96. The first special pattern reserve lamp 94 makes it possible to identify the number of pattern variations relating to reserved special pattern 1, the second special pattern reserve lamp 95 makes it possible to identify the number of pattern variations relating to reserved special pattern 2, and the normal pattern reserve lamp 96 makes it possible to identify the number of pattern variations of reserved normal patterns, and in all cases the number of corresponding pattern variations can be identified by the lighting state of the two LEDs (in this embodiment, right always lit only = 1, left and right always lit = 2, right flashing + left always lit = 3, left and right flashing = 4).

[0033] In the following explanation, the pattern change in which the special pattern is displayed in a variable manner on the first special pattern display device 91 or the second special pattern display device 92 and then the special pattern is displayed in a stationary manner will be referred to as the "pattern change of the special pattern," and in the following explanation, the pattern change in which the normal pattern is displayed in a stationary manner on the normal pattern display device 93 and then the normal pattern is displayed in a variable manner will be referred to as the "pattern change of the normal pattern." In addition, in the following explanation, the display of the change in the pattern sequence (decorative pattern) displayed on the main display unit 81 described above may be referred to as "pattern change of decorative pattern" to distinguish it from "pattern change of special pattern" and "pattern change of normal pattern." In the following explanation, when simply referring to "pattern change," it means the pattern change of the special design unless otherwise specified.

[0034] As shown in Figure 4, obstacles such as numerous game pegs (not shown), windmills 52, and decorative elements are placed on the front of the game board 50, thereby defining a game area 50a in which the game balls that are shot out roll. Additionally, curved outer rail 51 and inner rail 53 are arranged on the left and upper sides of play area 50a to guide game balls launched by rotating operating handle 31 to the top of play area 50a. Outer rail 51 is located outside inner rail 53 with respect to the center of play area 50a. Here, windmill 52 is a nail-shaped mechanism for changing the direction in which game balls fall.

[0035] The gaming machine 10 is capable of varying the strength of the game ball's launch depending on the amount of rotation (e.g., rotation angle) of the operating handle 31, and various obstacles are arranged in the gaming area 50a to make the game ball roll along either the first flow path X (so-called left-hand hit), in which a game ball that is launched more weakly rolls, or the second flow path Y (so-called right-hand hit), in which a game ball that is launched more strongly rolls.

[0036] Figure 4 shows the main prize winning openings as the large prize winning opening 55, the first starting opening 57, the second starting opening 59, the gate 63, and the general prize winning opening 67, but the prize winning openings shown are examples, and their number and arrangement may be changed as appropriate.

[0037] The large prize opening 55 is located in the lower right corner of the game area 50a. A large prize opening sensor 72 is attached to the large prize opening 55, and a prize ball is determined to have been won in the large prize opening 55 based on the detection result of the large prize opening sensor 72, and the number of prize balls associated with the large prize opening 55 (15 in this embodiment) is awarded. In this embodiment, the obstacles are arranged so that more game balls roll toward the big prize opening 55 when rolling from the second flow path Y compared to when rolling from the first flow path X.

[0038] A special electric device 65 is disposed above the large prize opening 55. The special electric device 65 is a member that can be switched between an open state, which makes it easy to win a prize in the large prize opening 55, and a closed state, which makes it difficult to win a prize, and is switched to either the open state or the closed state by a special electric device solenoid 66. More specifically, the special electric device 65 is in an open state during a portion of a jackpot game that starts when a jackpot is determined by the special symbol hit determination described below, or during a portion of a small jackpot game that starts when a small jackpot is determined by the special symbol hit determination, and thus entry into the large prize winning slot 55 is permitted. In this way, when the special electric device 65 is in an open state, entry into the large prize winning slot 55 becomes easier, so it can be said that jackpot games and small jackpot games, in which the chances of winning prize balls are significantly increased, are in an advantageous gaming state. Also, as will be described in detail later, the small jackpot game in this embodiment can give rise to a jackpot game. In a jackpot game, the special electric device 65 is alternately set to an open state and a closed state, and one open state (sometimes referred to as a "round game," and the total number of round games that occur in one jackpot may be referred to as the "number of rounds") ends when a predetermined number (10 in this embodiment) of game balls have entered the large prize opening 55, and the special electric device 65 enters a closed state. Furthermore, one open state in a jackpot game also ends when a sufficient time (30 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed for the predetermined number of game balls to enter the large prize opening 55. On the other hand, in the small win game, the game ends when the special electric device 65 is in an open state for 1.8 seconds or when 10 game balls enter the large prize opening 55. Therefore, in the small win game, it is more difficult for game balls to enter the large prize opening 55 than in the large win game. In this embodiment, when a big win game or a small win game starts, a start demo that ends with the passage of time is set, and when the start demo ends, a round game (a small win game in the case of a small win) starts, and when all round games have ended, an end demo that ends with the passage of time is set. That is, in this embodiment, a big win game (including those occurring in small win games) is composed of a start demo, a round game, and an end demo, and the big win game progresses in this order.

[0039] The first starting hole 57 is located at the bottom center of the game area 50a. A first starting hole sensor 70 is attached to the first starting hole 57, and the detection result of the first starting hole sensor 70 determines whether a ball has entered the first starting hole 57, and the number of prize balls associated with the first starting hole 57 (4 in this embodiment) is awarded. In at least some cases where a ball has entered the first starting hole 57, a pattern change related to special image 1 is performed. In addition, in the game area 50a of this embodiment, obstacles such as game nails are arranged so that more game balls roll toward the first starting hole 57 when rolling from the first flow path X than when rolling from the second flow path Y.

[0040] The second starting hole 59 is located in the lower right of the play area 50a. A second starting hole sensor 71 is attached to the second starting hole 59, and the detection result of the second starting hole sensor 71 determines whether a ball has entered the second starting hole 59, and the number of prize balls associated with the second starting hole 59 (1 in this embodiment) is awarded. In at least some cases where a winning entry into the second starting port 59 is determined, a pattern change related to special chart 2 will be performed. In addition, in the game area 50a of this embodiment, obstacles such as game nails are arranged so that more game balls roll toward the second starting hole 59 when rolling from the second flow path Y than when rolling from the first flow path X.

[0041] A normal electric device 61 is disposed in the flow path connected to the second starting port 59. The normal electric device 61 is a member that can be switched between an open state, which makes it easy for a game ball to enter the second starting port 59, and a closed state, which makes it difficult for the ball to enter, and is switched to either the open state or the closed state by a normal electric device solenoid 62. More specifically, the normal electric device 61 opens when the result of the normal winning / losing judgment described later is a normal winning (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as a "normal winning"), and thus entry into the second starting hole 59 is permitted. In this way, when the normal electric device 61 is in the open state, entry into the second starting hole 59 is possible, so that the chances of the pattern variation relating to the special drawing 2 being executed can be greatly increased while suppressing the decrease in game balls due to the prize balls.

[0042] Gate 63 is located in the center right of game area 50a. Gate 63 is equipped with a gate sensor 74, and the detection result of gate sensor 74 determines whether or not a win has been made at gate 63. In at least some cases where a win has been made at gate 63, the normal symbol pattern will change.

[0043] The general winning opening 67 is located at the lower left of the game area 50a. A general winning opening sensor 73 is attached to the general winning opening 67, and a win at the general winning opening 67 is determined based on the detection result of the general winning opening sensor 73, and the number of prize balls associated with the general winning opening 67 (4 in this embodiment) is awarded. In this embodiment, the obstacles are arranged so that more game balls roll toward the general winning opening 67 when rolling from the first flow path X compared to when rolling from the second flow path Y, but the obstacles may be arranged so that more game balls roll toward the general winning opening 67 when rolling from the second flow path Y. Also, a plurality of general winning openings 67 may be provided.

[0044] The outlet 69 is located at the bottom of the game area 50a. A game ball that is shot into the game area 50a and does not enter any of the winning holes falls into the outlet 69 and is treated as an out ball. In this embodiment, an out ball sensor 75 (not shown) for detecting out balls, which are game balls that enter the winning hole and the out hole 69, is provided.

[0045] In addition to the sensors mentioned above, the game board 50 is also provided with a magnetic detection sensor for detecting magnetism and a radio wave detection sensor for detecting radio waves (both not shown) to prevent fraudulent acts such as receiving prize balls illegally.

[0046] As shown in Figure 5, the back of the game board 50 is equipped with a main control board case 109 housing the main control board 100, a first sub-control board case 209 housing the first sub-control board 200, a second sub-control board case 309 housing the second sub-control board 300, a power supply control board case 509 housing the power supply control board 500, and a payout control board case 409 housing the payout control board 400, and in addition to the back of the first sub-control board case 209 and the second sub-control board case 309, an open / close cover 45 covering part of the back of the main control board case 109 is attached in a removable manner. The main control board 100 is provided with a RAM clear switch 43. The substrate cases and covers that encase each substrate are made of transparent materials, and the corresponding substrates can be seen through each case and cover.

[0047] Additionally, on the back of the gaming board 50, above the opening / closing cover 45, there is disposed a gaming ball tank 46 for storing gaming balls supplied from the ball supply equipment of the gaming island. The gaming ball tank 46 is further connected to a payout passage 49 leading to the upper ball tray 27 via a tank rail 47 and a payout unit 48, and the balls paid out by the payout unit 48 are paid out through the payout passage 49 to the upper ball tray 27.

[0048] So far, the structure of the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment has been described, but this is only one specific example, and the present invention can also be implemented with other configurations.

[0049] <Regarding the control configuration of the gaming machine 10> Next, a control configuration of the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the gaming machine 10. Note that the control configuration shown in Fig. 6 is necessary for explaining the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment, and the gaming machine 10 may also have a control configuration not shown in Fig. 6.

[0050] The main control board 100 is equipped with a CPU 101 that performs various calculations related to the game, a ROM 102 that stores data such as control programs and various lottery tables, a RAM 103 that functions as a work area and buffer memory that serves as a temporary storage area, an I / O port 104 that inputs and outputs signals between peripheral boards and each device, and a random number circuit 105 that operates in a system separate from the program processing by the CPU 101 and generates random numbers (hard random numbers), and these are connected to each other via an internal bus.

[0051] The CPU 101 reads out various control programs stored in the ROM 102 and performs arithmetic processing to execute various processes related to the main control of the game. The RAM 103 is backed up by a backup power source generated by a backup power circuit (described later). Specifically, the RAM 103 is configured to back up various information that allows the gaming machine 10 to return to the state it was in immediately before the power outage when power is restored (when power is turned on) after a power outage. For example, in addition to data such as a stack pointer and various registers held at the time of the power outage, information related to gameplay, such as the state of the gaming machine 10 at the time (game stopped or playable) and the current normal symbol lottery status, is backed up. This information is cleared (initialized) by a RAM clearing process (described later). Therefore, after the RAM is cleared, a new special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA (low normal symbol probability, described later) is set. Furthermore, when the RAM clearing process is executed, the symbol string related to the decorative symbol is in a state in which the initial symbol combination is frozen. This state is also maintained if the RAM clearing process was not executed when power was turned on and the symbol variation was not in progress at the time of the previous power outage. Furthermore, this initial symbol combination is displayed in a static state only when the power is turned on, and is not displayed in a static state when the symbol variation is performed.

[0052] In this embodiment, at least an area in which such information related to the game is stored (sometimes referred to as the game-related area of ​​RAM 103) is backed up, as well as an area in which the complement of a checksum and a backup flag related to the game-related area of ​​RAM 103 are stored (sometimes referred to as the game-related backup information area of ​​RAM 103). Then, when power is restored, the gaming machine 10 recovers using the various pieces of information stored in the backed-up game-related area of ​​RAM 103 and the game-related backup information area of ​​RAM 103. Note that the specific method of backup in this embodiment is not limited in any way. For example, the area of ​​RAM 103 to be backed up may be configured to be able to retain data in a non-volatile manner even in a power outage. As another example, within RAM 103, different hardware may be provided for a first memory configured to retain data in a non-volatile manner even in a power outage and a second memory referenced during operation of the gaming machine 10. In this case, the gaming machine 10 may save the information to be backed up from the second memory to the first memory when power is lost, and then recover the saved information from the first memory to the second memory when power is restored.

[0053] Furthermore, the main control board 100 is electrically connected to the first start gate sensor 70, the second start gate sensor 71, the special prize gate sensor 72, the general prize gate sensor 73, the gate sensor 74, the out ball sensor 75, the middle frame open door sensor 76, the front frame open door sensor 77, etc., and is configured to be able to input detection signals from these sensors to the CPU 101 via the I / O port 104. Although not shown in the figure, in addition to these sensors, the main control board 100 is also electrically connected to a full tank detection sensor, a magnetic detection sensor, and a radio wave detection sensor, and is configured to be able to input detection signals from these sensors to the CPU 101 via the I / O port 104.

[0054] In addition, the main control board 100 is electrically connected to the first special pattern display device 91, the second special pattern display device 92, the normal pattern display device 93, the first special pattern hold lamp 94, the second special pattern hold lamp 95, the normal pattern hold lamp 96, the normal electric role solenoid 62 and the special electric role solenoid 66, and is configured to be able to control these via the I / O port 104. Similarly, the main control board 100 is electrically connected to the main operation unit 39 and the RAM clear switch 43, and is configured to be able to detect the operation of the main operation unit 39.

[0055] The main control board 100 and the first sub-control board 200 are connected by eight parallel signal lines and one strobe line, and are connected so that communication is possible in only one direction, from the main control board 100 to the first sub-control board 200, and various performance control commands are sent from the main control board 100 to the first sub-control board 200. Furthermore, the first sub-control board 200 is configured so that data cannot be transmitted from the first sub-control board 200 to the main control board 100, and the first sub-control board 200 is configured so that it cannot request the main control board 100 to transmit data. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a parallel transmission method is used for transmitting data from the main control board 100 to the first sub-control board 200, but a serial transmission method may also be used.

[0056] The first sub-control board 200 comprises a CPU 201 that performs various arithmetic processing related to game presentation based on presentation control commands from the main control board 100, a ROM 202 that stores data such as presentation control programs and various lottery tables, a RAM 203 that functions as a work area or buffer memory that serves as a temporary storage area, and an I / O port 204 that inputs and outputs signals between peripheral boards and each device, and these are connected to each other via an internal bus, and the CPU 201 is configured to execute main control related to game presentation in accordance with the control program stored in ROM 202. In addition, the first sub-control board 200 is provided with a switch (not shown) that is electrically connected to the effect button 37 and the cursor button 38, and is configured to be able to detect whether or not the effect button 37 and the cursor button 38 are operated by this switch.

[0057] In addition, the first sub-control board 200 generates, through performance control processing based on performance control commands from the main control board 100, image control commands that instruct the image to be displayed on the second sub-control board 300, audio control commands that instruct the audio to be output to the audio control board 310, lamp control data for controlling the lighting of various lamps such as the frame lamp 35, and movement control data for controlling the movement of the sub-display unit 82, etc. Here, the first sub-control board 200 is connected to the second sub-control board 300 and the audio control board 310 to enable two-way communication, and each control command (image control command, audio control command) is sent from the first sub-control board 200 to the second sub-control board 300 or the audio control board 310, while in response, a response command (ACK command) indicating that the control command was successfully received is sent from each control board (second sub-control board 300, audio control board 310) to the first sub-control board 200.

[0058] The first sub-control board 200 is also electrically connected to the frame lamp 35 and the movable decorative body 22, and transmits lamp control data via the I / O port 204. The frame lamp 35 and the movable decorative body 22 are configured so that their lighting is controlled by the lamp control data transmitted from the first sub-control board 200. Furthermore, the first sub-control board 200 is electrically connected to the movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82, and transmits movement control data via the I / O port 204. The movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82 are configured so that their movement is controlled by the movement control data transmitted from the first sub-control board 200.

[0059] The second sub-control board 300, although not shown in the figure, is equipped with a CPU that performs various arithmetic processing related to image presentation based on image control commands from the first sub-control board 200, a ROM that stores image control programs and various data, a RAM that functions as a work area and buffer memory that serves as a temporary storage area, and an I / O port that inputs and outputs signals between peripheral boards and each device, and is configured so that the CPU executes main control related to image presentation in accordance with the control program stored in the ROM. Furthermore, the second sub-control board 300 is equipped with a VDP that generates image data according to the content of the effect determined by the effect content determination means 225 (described later) based on a control signal received from the CPU, and a sound source IC that generates sound data according to the content of the effect based on a control signal received from the CPU. The VDP is a so-called image processor that reads image data stored in an image ROM in response to instructions from the CPU, processes the image data, and sends the generated image data to the main display unit 81 and the sub-display unit 82. Also connected to this VDP is a high-speed VRAM that is used to expand and process the image data read from the image ROM.

[0060] The audio control board 310 is equipped with a CPU 311 that performs various arithmetic processing related to audio performance based on audio control commands from the first sub-control board 200, a ROM 312 that stores audio control programs, audio data, etc., a RAM 313 that functions as a work area or buffer memory that serves as a temporary storage area, and an I / O port 314 that inputs and outputs signals to and from peripheral boards and each device, and is configured so that the CPU 311 executes main control related to audio performance in accordance with the control program stored in ROM 312. Therefore, the audio control board 310 reads audio data stored in ROM 312 in accordance with audio control commands received from the first sub-control board 200, synthesizes the read audio data, and transmits the final synthesized audio data to the speaker 33 via an amplifier, causing the speaker 33 to output audio.

[0061] The dispensing control board 400 is mainly composed of a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM (all not shown). In addition, the payout control board 400 is connected to the main control board 100 so as to be able to communicate in both directions, and performs control to drive the payout unit 48 to pay out game balls based on a payout control command from the main control board 100, and also controls the launch of game balls by synchronously driving the ball feeding mechanism and the launching mechanism based on the amount of operation of the operating handle 31.

[0062] The power supply control board 500 is composed of a normal power supply circuit 501 that generates normal power to be supplied to electronic and electrical components such as the control board mentioned above based on the primary power supply supplied from the power supply equipment of the game island, a backup power supply circuit 502 that generates backup power, and a power interruption detection circuit 503 that detects power interruption (when the voltage supplied by the normal power supply drops to a specified voltage). In addition, a power switch 40 is connected to the power supply control board 500, and assuming that primary power is supplied from the amusement island's power supply equipment, when the power switch 40 is turned ON, normal power is generated in the normal power supply circuit 501 of the power supply control board 500, and power is supplied to electronic and electrical components including the above-mentioned control boards (main control board 100, first sub-control board 200, second sub-control board 300, and payout control board 400). In addition, when a power interruption detection circuit 503 detects a power interruption, the power supply control board 500 transmits a power interruption signal (NMI signal) to each of the main control board 100, the first sub-control board 200, and the dispensing control board 400. In addition, the backup power supply circuit 502 is configured to be charged when power is supplied to the gaming machine 10 from the power supply equipment of the gaming island. In addition, the backup power supply circuit 502 may be provided on the dispensing control board 400, and the power interruption detection circuit 503 may not be provided on the power supply control board 500, but may be provided on each of the main control board 100, the first sub-control board 200, and the dispensing control board 400.

[0063] <Functional Configuration of Gaming Machine 10> Next, the functional configuration of the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the gaming machine 10. Note that the functional configuration shown in Fig. 7 is necessary for explaining the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment, and the gaming machine 10 may also have functional configurations that are not shown in Fig. 7. Furthermore, when explaining the functional configuration, Figs. 8 and 9 will be referenced as necessary.

[0064] As shown in Figure 7, the main control board 100 is equipped with a ball entry determination means 110, a main random number generation means 115, a main hold control means 120, a pre-determination means 125, a special symbol lottery means 130, a normal symbol lottery means 135, a jackpot game control means 140, a pattern display control means 145, an electric device control means 150, a game status control means 155, a main information storage means 160, a main error control means 165, a main command management means 170, a power restoration processing execution means 175, and a power outage processing execution means 180. These means are functional representations of what is realized by each control configuration on the main control board 100 described using Figure 6.

[0065] First, the main information storage means 160 is a means for temporarily storing data read by the means provided in the main control board 100, data derived by calculations in the means, etc. in the corresponding storage areas. In particular, the data (performance control commands) stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160 is transmitted by the command transmission means to the sub-command management means 270 of the first sub-control board 200, which will be described later, after being stored.

[0066] The ball entry determination means 110 determines whether a ball has entered each winning hole based on the detection results of the sensors provided at each winning hole. In addition, when the ball entry determination means 110 determines that a game ball has entered a prize hole using a sensor installed in the prize hole, such as the large prize hole sensor 72, it generates a presentation control command (prize entry command) that includes information that can identify the type of sensor related to the prize, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0067] The main random number generating means 115 can generate multiple types of random numbers with different update ranges depending on the random number circuit 105, and when a win is determined to have been made at a winning slot, it acquires (latches) one or more random numbers corresponding to that winning slot from the random number circuit 105. More specifically, when it is determined that a prize has been won at the first start gate 57 or the second start gate 59, the main random number generating means 115 acquires a random number for determining whether a special symbol has been won, a random number for drawing a special symbol stop symbol pattern, and a random number for drawing a special symbol change pattern, which will be described later. When it is determined that a prize has been won at gate 63, the main random number generating means 115 stores the random number for determining whether a normal symbol has been won, a random number for drawing a normal symbol stop symbol pattern, and a random number for drawing a normal symbol change pattern, which will be described later, in the corresponding storage areas of the main information storage means 160. The random number circuit 105 monitors whether the multiple types of random numbers it updates are being updated normally, and if an update abnormality occurs in which the random numbers are not updated normally, information indicating the occurrence of the abnormality is written to a specific storage area of ​​the random number circuit 105. Therefore, the CPU 101 can recognize that an update abnormality has occurred in the random number circuit 105.

[0068] The main reserve control means 120 controls the reservation of the pattern variation related to the special chart and the reservation of the pattern variation related to the normal chart. Regarding the special chart 1, the random number for determining whether the special chart is a hit or not, the random number for drawing the special chart stop pattern, and the random number for drawing the special chart variation pattern, which are acquired as a result of winning the first starting gate 57, are reserved (stored) as operation reservation information for the special chart 1. More specifically, the main hold control means 120 is provided with a hold counter (hereinafter referred to as the "special chart 1 hold counter") that is incremented by 1 each time the activation hold information of special chart 1 is held and decremented by 1 each time the activation hold information of special chart 1 is used (used in the lottery by the special chart lottery means 130), and stores the activation hold information in a storage area corresponding to the current special chart 1 hold counter of the main information storage means 160 until the value of the special chart 1 hold counter reaches an upper limit value (4 in this embodiment), and clears the used activation hold information each time the activation hold information is used, and controls the remaining activation hold information to be moved (shifted) from the current storage area to a storage area corresponding to a special chart 1 hold counter that is 1 less than the current special chart 1 hold counter, in order from the smallest special chart 1 hold counter. In addition, the main hold control means 120 performs the same control as described above for special drawing 2 and regular drawing separately from special drawing 1, and the hold counter for special drawing 2 is called the special drawing 2 hold counter, and the upper limit value of the special drawing 2 hold counter in this embodiment is 4. In addition, in the following explanation, "holding of operation hold information" may be expressed as "holding of pattern change" or simply as "holding." In addition, when the main hold control means 120 updates (adds or subtracts) the operation hold information (hold counter) of special chart 1 or special chart 2, it generates a performance control command (hold command) including the special chart 1 hold counter and the special chart 2 hold counter, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. In this embodiment, when both the activation pending information corresponding to special chart 1 and the activation pending information corresponding to special chart 2 are reserved, a priority variation is performed in which the activation pending information corresponding to special chart 2 is used preferentially. However, instead of this priority variation, a winning order variation in which the activation pending information is used in the order in which it is reserved, regardless of whether it corresponds to special chart 1 or special chart 2, or a simultaneous variation in which the activation pending information corresponding to special chart 1 and the activation pending information corresponding to special chart 2 are simultaneously used when both the activation pending information corresponding to special chart 1 and the activation pending information corresponding to special chart 2 are reserved may be adopted.

[0069] The advance judgment means 125 executes advance judgment for a pre-reading performance targeting the pending activation information in at least some cases where the pending activation information of a special chart is pending at a predetermined advance judgment timing. More specifically, the preliminary judgment means 125 reads out each random number of the operation pending information that has been reserved this time, and performs preliminary judgment for each of the special symbol hit / miss judgment, special symbol stop symbol lottery, and special symbol change pattern lottery, which will be described later. In each preliminary judgment, a lottery table (not shown) that is the same as or equivalent to the lottery table used in the lottery corresponding to each preliminary judgment is used. Therefore, the results of these preliminary judgments will be the same as the results of the lottery that will be executed later. Furthermore, the pre-determination means 125 generates a performance control command (pre-determination command) including the result of the derived pre-determination, and stores the command in a transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0070] The special chart lottery means 130 includes a special chart win / loss determination means 131, a special chart stop pattern lottery means 132, and a special chart change pattern derivation means 133, and executes processing by each means in the order of the special chart win / loss determination means 131, the special chart stop pattern lottery means 132, and the special chart change pattern derivation means 133. When the special chart change start condition is satisfied, the special chart lottery means 130 reads out the earliest activation pending information among the activation pending information reserved in the main information storage means 160. In addition, "the conditions for starting the change of the special chart are satisfied" means, for example, that all of the following conditions are satisfied: the player is not in the middle of a jackpot game, neither Special Chart 1 nor Special Chart 2 is currently changing the pattern (including when the pattern change related to Special Chart 1 or Special Chart 2 is stopped and displayed), and there is pending activation information on at least one of Special Chart 1 and Special Chart 2.

[0071] Here, FIGS. 8 and 9 are diagrams that schematically show the lottery table used in the main control board 100, and will be referred to as necessary in the following description. In a lottery using a lottery table, including other lottery tables, the lottery values ​​stored in the lottery table are sequentially added to the read random number in a predetermined order (if there is only one target lottery value, the addition is performed once), and the result corresponding to the lottery value that has generated a carry (overflow) is derived as the result of the lottery. Similarly, in the explanation of the lottery tables, names are given to the lottery tables for convenience of explanation. However, as long as the data, such as the lottery values, contained in the lottery table corresponding to the names are identifiable and stored in each ROM, these names do not specify the area in which the data is stored. In the illustrated lottery tables, items listed for convenience of explanation or lottery values ​​such as "-" or "0" are listed, but these do not necessarily indicate the data stored in each ROM. Furthermore, results with lottery values ​​of "-" or "0" will not result in a win. Furthermore, if the lottery table contains a lottery value identical to the random number range used in the lottery (the number of random numbers that can be obtained within that range), the result will be derived 100%, so a lottery is not necessarily required. Furthermore, if the total value of the lottery values ​​used in one lottery matches the random number range used in the lottery, a carry will always occur when adding the last lottery value, so the addition does not need to be performed, and in that case the lottery values ​​used in the addition themselves become unnecessary.

[0072] The special symbol hit / miss judgment means 131 reads out a random number for the special symbol hit / miss judgment for each symbol change, and executes a special symbol hit / miss judgment to judge by lottery whether the winning is a big hit, a small hit, or a miss, using the read-out random number and a lottery table for the special symbol hit / miss judgment. Figure 8(a) is a diagram showing a schematic drawing of a lottery table for determining whether a special drawing is a hit or a miss. The lottery table differs between special drawing 1 and special drawing 2, and the range of random numbers used in these determinations is 0 to 65535. Therefore, in determining whether a special drawing is a hit or a miss in special drawing 1, a big hit is derived with a probability of 205 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 320), and any other result is a miss, and no small hit is derived. On the other hand, in determining whether a special drawing is a hit or a miss in special drawing 2, a big hit is derived with a probability of 205 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 320), and a small hit is derived with a probability of 1820 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 36.0), and any other result is a miss. Here, as described above, in a lottery using a lottery table, the lottery values ​​stored in the lottery table are added to the read random number in a predetermined order, and the result corresponding to the lottery value where a carry occurred is derived as the result of the lottery. Therefore, in the special chart win / loss determination in special chart 2, if a random number included in the random number range of 63511 to 65535 is obtained, a big win or a small win is derived. In particular, if a random number included in the random number range of 65331 to 65535 is obtained, a big win is derived, and if a random number included in the random number range of 63511 to 65330 is obtained, a small win is derived. In this embodiment, as will be described later, a jackpot game can occur via a small jackpot, so the probability of a jackpot being derived in the special chart hit / miss determination is set to the single probability described above.

[0073] When the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment is a big hit or a small hit, the special chart stopping pattern lottery means 132 determines the special chart stopping pattern by lottery using a random number for special chart stopping pattern lottery (in this embodiment, in the range of 0 to 999) and a lottery table for special chart stopping pattern lottery. Specifically, as shown in Figure 8(b), which is a diagram that schematically illustrates the lottery table for lottery of stopping symbols used when a jackpot is derived in the judgment of whether the special symbol is a hit or miss related to special symbol 1, when a jackpot is derived in the judgment of whether the special symbol is a hit or miss related to special symbol 1, symbol A is determined as the stopping symbol with a probability of 100 / 1000 (1 / 10), and symbol B is determined with a probability of 900 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.11). Here, whether symbol A or symbol B is selected, the game will enter a normal high probability state after the jackpot game corresponding to these stopped symbols ends, as described below. However, the number of symbol changes during which the normal high probability state continues (hereinafter referred to as the "prescribed number of times related to normal high probability") will be 80 times after the jackpot game ends when symbol A is selected, and 40 times after the jackpot game ends when symbol B is selected. Also, the number of rounds of the jackpot game corresponding to symbol A is 10, while the number of rounds of the jackpot game corresponding to symbol B is 4. Therefore, it can be said that symbol A is more advantageous than symbol B in terms of both the number of rounds and the prescribed number of times related to normal high probability.

[0074] As shown in Figure 8(c), which is a diagram that schematically shows the lottery table for drawing the stopping pattern used when a small win is derived in the judgment of whether the special pattern is a hit or miss for special pattern 2, if a small win is derived in the judgment of whether the special pattern is a hit or miss for special pattern 2, pattern a will be determined as the stopping pattern with a probability of 700 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.43), and pattern b will be determined with a probability of 300 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 3.33). Here, pattern a is a stopping pattern that results in 10 rounds of jackpot play during a small jackpot game related to that pattern, and results in a normal high probability after the jackpot game ends, with the specified number of times for that normal high probability being 80. Pattern b is a stopping pattern that results in 4 rounds of jackpot play during a small jackpot game related to that pattern, and results in a normal high probability after the jackpot game ends, with the specified number of times for that normal high probability being 80. Therefore, it can be said that pattern a is more advantageous than pattern b in terms of both the number of rounds and the specified number of times for that normal high probability. In addition, when a jackpot game occurs in a small hit game, the number of rounds in that jackpot game is the number calculated by counting that small hit game as one round. Furthermore, in the following explanation, a jackpot game that occurs in a small hit game related to symbol a may be expressed as a "jackpot game related to symbol a," and a jackpot game that occurs in a small hit game related to symbol b may be expressed as a "jackpot game related to symbol b."

[0075] As shown in Figure 8(d), which is a diagram schematically illustrating a lottery table for drawing the stopping symbols used when a jackpot is determined in the special symbol hit / miss judgment related to special symbol 2, when a jackpot is determined in the special symbol hit / miss judgment related to special symbol 2, symbol c is determined as the stopping symbol with a probability of 1000 / 1000 (1 / 1). In particular, symbol c is a stopping symbol for which the number of rounds of the jackpot game corresponding to the stopping symbol is 10, and which becomes a normal symbol with high probability after the jackpot game ends, and the specified number of times for the normal symbol with high probability is 80, which is the same as the jackpot game related to symbol a.

[0076] In addition, the special chart stop pattern lottery means 132 determines pattern C as the stop pattern if the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment for special chart 1 is a miss, and determines pattern d as the stop pattern if the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment for special chart 2 is a miss (both not shown).

[0077] In this way, in the above-described embodiment, the jackpot game that occurs in the pattern variation related to special chart 2 tends to be more advantageous than the jackpot game that occurs in the pattern variation related to special chart 1. Therefore, the interest in the game can be further increased by transitioning from the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA described later to another special chart variation pattern derivation state (special chart variation pattern derivation state PB or special chart variation pattern derivation state PC described later).

[0078] The special pattern variation pattern derivation means 133 has a plurality of types of special pattern variation pattern lottery tables to be referenced when determining the special pattern variation pattern, and selects one special pattern variation pattern lottery table for determining the current special pattern variation pattern based on the current special pattern variation pattern derivation state and the result of the current special pattern success / failure judgment, determines one special pattern variation pattern using the selected special pattern variation pattern lottery table and a random number for special pattern variation pattern lottery, and determines the variation time based on the determined special pattern variation pattern. Here, the variation time refers to the time from when the pattern variation related to the special pattern (special pattern 1 or special pattern 2) starts to when the pattern variation ends. Details of the transition conditions will be described later, but in this embodiment, there are three special pattern variation pattern derivation states: special pattern variation pattern derivation state PA, special pattern variation pattern derivation state PB, and special pattern variation pattern derivation state PC. The above-mentioned method of determining the special pattern variation pattern is adopted in the pattern variation related to special pattern 1 in the special pattern variation pattern derivation state PA, and in the special pattern variation pattern derivation state PB and the special pattern variation pattern derivation state PC, it is adopted in the pattern variation related to special pattern 2. On the other hand, in the pattern change related to the other special chart (the special chart for which the above-mentioned method of determining the special chart change pattern is adopted) in each special chart change pattern derivation state, a predetermined special chart change pattern is determined depending on the result of the special chart success / failure judgment.

[0079] Below, we will explain how to determine the special chart variation pattern of the pattern variation related to special chart 1 in the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA. In this embodiment, the explanation of the method for determining the special chart variation pattern of the pattern variation related to special chart 2 in the special chart variation pattern derivation state PB and the special chart variation pattern derivation state PC will be omitted.

[0080] Figure 9(a) is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of a special chart variation pattern lottery table used for the pattern variation related to special chart 1 during the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA, and the range of random numbers used in the lottery is 0 to 999. As shown in FIG. 9(a), in the pattern variation related to the special chart 1 in the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA, special chart variation patterns HNP to ASP-C can be determined. Specifically, if the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment in the pattern change related to special chart 1 during the special chart change pattern derivation state PA is a miss, the special chart change pattern HNP occurs with a probability of 900 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.11), the special chart change pattern HRP occurs with a probability of 52 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 19.2), the special chart change pattern HSP1-A occurs with a probability of 13 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 76.9), and the special chart change pattern HS occurs with a probability of 11 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 90.9). P1-B, special chart fluctuation pattern HSP2-A with a probability of 9 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 111), special chart fluctuation pattern HSP2-B with a probability of 7 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 143), special chart fluctuation pattern HSP3-A with a probability of 5 / 1000 (1 / 200), special chart fluctuation pattern HSP3-B with a probability of 3 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 333) are determined, and in this case, special chart fluctuation pattern ASP1-A to special chart fluctuation pattern ASP-C are not determined. Details will be described later using Figure 9 (b), but when special chart fluctuation pattern HNP is determined, the special chart fluctuation pattern is further specified using the value of the special chart 1 pending counter at the start of this pattern fluctuation. On the other hand, if the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment in the pattern fluctuation related to special chart 1 during the special chart fluctuation pattern derivation state PA is a jackpot, the probability of special chart fluctuation pattern ASP1-A is 90 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 11.1), the probability of special chart fluctuation pattern ASP1-B is 110 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 9.09), the probability of special chart fluctuation pattern ASP2-A is 135 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 7.41), the probability of special chart fluctuation pattern ASP2-B is 165 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 6 Special chart fluctuation pattern ASP2-B is determined with a probability of 1 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 5.56), special chart fluctuation pattern ASP3-A with a probability of 180 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 5.56), special chart fluctuation pattern ASP3-B with a probability of 220 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 4.56), and special chart fluctuation pattern ASP-C with a probability of 100 / 1000 (1 / 10), and in such cases, special chart fluctuation pattern HNP to special chart fluctuation pattern HSP3-B will not be determined. In this way, in this embodiment, when the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment in the pattern fluctuation related to the special chart 1 in the special chart fluctuation pattern derivation state PA is a miss, any one of the special chart fluctuation patterns HRP to HSP3-B is determined at a rate of 100 / 1000 (1 / 10), and the special chart fluctuation pattern HNP is determined at a rate of 900 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.11). Furthermore, when the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment in the pattern fluctuation related to the special chart 1 in the special chart fluctuation pattern derivation state PA is a jackpot, any one of the special chart fluctuation patterns ASP1-A to ASP-C is determined at a rate of 1000 / 1000 (1 / 1). Here, in the explanation of the special chart fluctuation pattern of this embodiment, when two special chart fluctuation patterns are described with "~" in between, the description of the special chart fluctuation pattern that exists between the special chart fluctuation pattern described earlier and the special chart fluctuation pattern described later is omitted in accordance with the order described in the drawing related to the special chart fluctuation pattern lottery table for each special chart fluctuation pattern derivation state. Also, in the explanation of the special chart fluctuation pattern of this embodiment, regardless of whether the corresponding fluctuation time is described, if the names of the special chart fluctuation patterns are different, it means that the different special chart fluctuation patterns are different.

[0081] Figure 9(b) is a diagram schematically showing a special chart variation pattern lottery table used when a special chart variation pattern HNP is determined in the pattern variation related to special chart 1 during the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA, and the range of the random numbers used in this lottery (different from the random numbers used in the lottery related to the special chart variation pattern lottery table shown in Figure 9(a)) is 0 to 999. As shown in Figure 9(b), the special chart fluctuation patterns HNP that can be determined in the pattern fluctuation related to special chart 1 during the special chart fluctuation pattern derivation state PA include special chart fluctuation pattern HNP-A with a fluctuation time of 3200 ms (milliseconds), special chart fluctuation pattern HNP-B with a fluctuation time of 5600 ms, special chart fluctuation pattern HNP-C with a fluctuation time of 8000 ms, and special chart fluctuation pattern HNP-D with a fluctuation time of 11200 ms, in that order of increasing fluctuation time. Specifically, if the special chart 1 reserved counter is 3 at the start of this pattern change, the special chart change pattern HNP-A will be determined with a probability of 1000 / 1000 (1 / 1). Similarly, if the special chart 1 reserved counter is 2 at the start of this pattern change, the special chart change pattern HNP-A will be determined with a probability of 150 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 6.67), and the special chart change pattern HNP-B will be determined with a probability of 850 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.18). If the special chart 1 reserved counter is 1 at the start of this pattern change, the special chart change pattern HNP-A will be determined with a probability of 50 / 1000 (1 / 20), and the special chart change pattern HNP-B will be determined with a probability of 150 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 6.67). The special pattern variation pattern HNP-B is determined with a probability of 800 / 1000 (1 / 1.25), and the special pattern variation pattern HNP-C is determined with a probability of 800 / 1000 (1 / 1.25). If the special pattern 1 reserved counter = 0 at the start of this pattern variation, the special pattern variation pattern HNP-B is determined with a probability of 50 / 1000 (1 / 20), the special pattern variation pattern HNP-C is determined with a probability of 100 / 1000 (1 / 10), and the special pattern variation pattern HNP-D is determined with a probability of 850 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.18). In the following explanation, if the value of the referenced special pattern reserved counter is 3, it will be referred to as "protected 3", if the value of the special pattern reserved counter is 2, it will be referred to as "protected 2", if the value of the special pattern reserved counter is 1, it will be referred to as "protected 1", and if the value of the special pattern reserved counter is 0, it will be referred to as "protected 0". In this way, when the special pattern variation pattern HNP is determined in the special pattern variation pattern derivation state PA, the special pattern variation pattern (variation time) that is likely to be determined depends on the value of the special pattern 1 reserved counter at the start of the current pattern variation. More specifically, the smaller the value of the special pattern 1 reserved counter at the start of the current pattern variation, the more likely it is that a special pattern variation pattern with a longer variation time will be determined (the larger the value of the special pattern 1 reserved counter at the start of the current pattern variation, the more likely it is that a shorter variation time will be determined). In addition, such special chart variation pattern HNP (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "basic special chart variation pattern") also exists in the special chart variation pattern derivation state PB and the special chart variation pattern derivation state PC, and in these special chart variation pattern derivation states, the reserved counter referenced is different from that in the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA, and in both cases the value of the special chart 2 reserved counter is referenced.

[0082] In addition, at the start of the pattern change, the special chart change pattern derivation means 133 generates a performance control command (change start command) including the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment, the determined special chart stop pattern, and the determined special chart change pattern, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0083] The regular map lottery means 135, like the special map lottery means 130, reads out the earliest pending activation information from the pending activation information stored in the main information storage means 160 when the regular map pattern is not changing, and uses the read random number to perform a regular map validity judgment to determine whether the regular map is valid or invalid, and determines various parameters related to the regular map (regular map change time, regular map stop display time, etc.) based on the result of the regular map validity judgment and information such as the current special map change pattern derivation state. In determining whether a regular drawing is a hit or miss, there are two states where the regular drawing lottery state is a high probability state (sometimes abbreviated as "regular drawing high probability") and a low probability state (sometimes abbreviated as "regular drawing low probability"). An illustration of the lottery table is omitted, but in this embodiment, in a regular drawing high probability state, the probability of a regular drawing being a hit is 65535 / 65536, and the remaining probability of a miss is 1 / 65536, while in a regular drawing low probability state, the probability of a regular drawing being a hit is 1 / 65536, and the remaining probability of a miss is 65535 / 65536. Note that in a regular drawing low probability state, it may be configured so that the regular drawing does not win (65536 / 65536 is a miss).

[0084] At the start of a jackpot game, the jackpot game control means 140 generates a presentation control command (start demo command) including information related to the jackpot game (the required time for the start demo, the number of rounds, and the subsequent special chart variation pattern derivation state) and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160, and at the end of the start demo, generates a presentation control command (round start command) and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Furthermore, at the end of the round game, a presentation control command (end demo command) including the required time for the end demo of the jackpot game is generated and stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Furthermore, these commands are the same in a big win game caused by a small win game. Specifically, at the start of a small win game, the big win game control means 140 generates a start demo command and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160, and at the end of the start demo, generates a round start command and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160, and generates an end demo command and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0085] In addition, the jackpot game control means 140 starts a small jackpot game if the result of the special symbol hit / miss determination is a small jackpot, and if the game ball passes through the V winning area (not shown) provided in the large winning port 55 during the small jackpot game, the jackpot game corresponding to the small jackpot can be started after the small jackpot game ends. Therefore, in this embodiment, the small jackpot game functions as a trigger for the jackpot game. Note that if the game ball does not pass through the V winning area during the small jackpot game, the jackpot game does not start after the small jackpot game ends.

[0086] The pattern display control means 145 causes the first special pattern display device 91 to variably display the special pattern 1 in accordance with the variation time corresponding to the determined special pattern variation pattern of the special pattern 1, and causes the special pattern 1 to be stopped and displayed with the stop pattern determined by the special pattern stop pattern lottery after the variation time has elapsed. Similarly, the second special pattern display device 92 causes the special pattern 2 to variably display in accordance with the variation time corresponding to the determined special pattern variation pattern of the special pattern 2, and causes the special pattern 2 to be stopped and displayed with the stop pattern determined by the special pattern stop pattern lottery after the variation time has elapsed. Here, the stop display time (interval) of the pattern change related to the special chart refers to the time from when the special chart is stopped and displayed until the pattern change of the next special chart can start (if the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment is a miss), or the time from when the pattern change of the special chart ends until the big hit game or small hit game starts (if the result of the normal chart hit / miss judgment is a normal hit), and in this embodiment the stop display time of the pattern change related to the special chart is a uniform 300 ms regardless of the type of special chart or the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment. In addition, the pattern display control means 145 has a special pattern game timer for managing the time (variation time, stop display time) related to the display of special pattern 1 and special pattern 2, and when the special pattern is stopped for display (at the timing when the value of the special pattern game timer becomes "0"), it generates a presentation control command (variation stop command) for requesting the fixed stop display of the decorative pattern, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Here, the "confirmed stop display of a decorative pattern" refers to the final stop display of a decorative pattern in the pattern change, and is different from the provisional stop display of a decorative pattern that may occur during the pattern change. In the provisional stop display of a decorative pattern, the decorative pattern displayed as stopped is accompanied by a small up and down movement (so-called "swinging fluctuation"), while in the confirmed stop display of a decorative pattern, the decorative pattern displayed as stopped is not accompanied by a swinging fluctuation. Therefore, the player can recognize whether the decorative pattern display is a confirmed stop display or a provisional stop display.

[0087] Furthermore, the pattern display control means 145 causes the normal map to be displayed on the normal pattern display device 93 in a variable manner according to a variable time corresponding to the determined normal map variable pattern, and after the variable time has elapsed, causes the normal map to be displayed in a stopped state with the determined stopping pattern. In addition, the symbol display control means 145 has a regular symbol game timer for managing the time related to the regular symbol (regular symbol fluctuation time, regular symbol stop display time, etc.).

[0088] In the above-mentioned big win game or small win game, the electric device control means 150 outputs a control signal to the special electric device solenoid 66, and opens the special electric device 65 according to an opening pattern corresponding to the stopping pattern of the special chart.

[0089] The game state control means 155 controls the normal symbol lottery state. Specifically, the game state control means 155 sets the normal symbol to low probability at the start of a jackpot game regardless of the stopped symbol of the special symbol related to the jackpot game, and when a specified condition such as the end of the jackpot game is met, sets the normal symbol to high probability until the specified number of symbol changes related to the high normal symbol probability are performed, and sets the normal symbol to low probability when the specified number of symbol changes related to the high normal symbol probability are completed. Here, as will be described later, in this embodiment, the number of symbol changes used to determine whether the specified number of symbol changes related to the high normal symbol probability has been reached is the number of symbol changes related to special symbol 2, but the number of symbol changes used to determine this may be the number of symbol changes related to special symbol 2 plus the number of symbol changes related to special symbol 1. In addition, in this embodiment, during a small win game, the normal symbol lottery state is maintained in the symbol variation that caused the small win game.

[0090] Such a regular drawing state changes in conjunction with the above-mentioned special drawing variation pattern derivation state, and the transition of the special drawing variation pattern derivation state is managed by the game state control means 155. The transition of the special drawing variation pattern derivation state will be explained below with reference to Figures 10(a) and 10(b). Figure 10(a) is a state transition diagram showing the transition of the special drawing variation pattern derivation state, and Figure 10(b) is a diagram showing the relationship between the average variation time for each special drawing variation pattern derivation state. As shown in Figure 10(a), in the special chart variation pattern derivation state, there is a special chart variation pattern derivation state PA as a special chart variation pattern derivation state corresponding to a normal chart low probability, and there are a special chart variation pattern derivation state PB and a special chart variation pattern derivation state PC as special chart variation pattern derivation states corresponding to a normal chart high probability, and one of these special chart variation pattern derivation states is set except during a jackpot game. The transition conditions between the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA and the special chart variation pattern derivation state PC include transition conditions (i) to (v).

[0091] Specifically, transition condition (i) is the end of a jackpot game related to pattern B, transition condition (ii) is the end of a jackpot game related to pattern A, transition condition (iii) is the end of a jackpot game related to pattern a, pattern b, or pattern c, transition condition (iv) is the end of a pattern change related to special pattern 2 executed without a jackpot game in a normal high probability state by having the number of pattern changes reach 40 (the specified number of times related to a normal high probability state in special pattern change pattern derivation state PB), and transition condition (v) is the end of a pattern change related to special pattern 2 executed without a jackpot game in a normal high probability state by having the number of pattern changes reach 80 (the specified number of times related to a normal high probability state in special pattern change pattern derivation state PC). In addition, if a jackpot game involving pattern a, pattern b, or pattern c occurs in the special pattern variation pattern derivation state PC, the state will transition back to the special pattern variation pattern derivation state PC after the jackpot game ends, and the number of pattern variations involving special pattern 2 that can be performed up to the specified number of times for the high probability of normal patterns in the special pattern variation pattern derivation state PC will be reset. Also, although not shown in the figure, in a small win game that occurs in the special chart variation pattern derivation state PB and the special chart variation pattern derivation state PC, if the game ball does not pass through the V winning area and a big win game does not occur, the end of the small win game triggers the end of the current special chart variation pattern derivation state and transition to the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA.

[0092] As shown in Figure 10(b), the average fluctuation time for the special symbol fluctuation pattern derivation state PA, the special symbol fluctuation pattern derivation state PB, and the special symbol fluctuation pattern derivation state PC decreases in the following order: special symbol fluctuation pattern derivation state PA, special symbol fluctuation pattern derivation state PB, special symbol fluctuation pattern derivation state PC. This is due to the length of the fluctuation time for the basic special symbol fluctuation pattern that is most likely to be determined in each special symbol fluctuation pattern derivation state. Here, the average fluctuation time refers to the sum of the fluctuation times derived by multiplying the occurrence rate (the probability that an arbitrary symbol fluctuation can occur, derived by multiplying the probability of the result of the special symbol judgment by the probability of winning the special symbol fluctuation pattern) for each fluctuation time for the special symbol fluctuation pattern that can be selected in a certain special symbol fluctuation pattern derivation state. However, in this embodiment, if there is only one special symbol fluctuation pattern that can be selected in the certain special symbol fluctuation pattern derivation state, the fluctuation time for that special symbol fluctuation pattern is treated as the average fluctuation time.

[0093] Thus, in this embodiment, in terms of the prescribed number of times related to the normal high probability, it can be said that the special chart variation pattern derivation state PC is a more advantageous game state than the special chart variation pattern derivation state PB. Also, in terms of the time efficiency of winning prize balls due to the average variation time, it can be said that the special chart variation pattern derivation state PC is a more advantageous game state than the special chart variation pattern derivation state PB.

[0094] In addition, when a transition occurs between the normal drawing state and the special drawing pattern derivation state, the game state control means 155 generates a presentation control command (game state designation command) including the state after the transition, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Furthermore, the game state control means 155 counts the number of times that a pattern change related to a transition to another special pattern change pattern derivation state is executed in each special pattern change pattern derivation state, and generates a performance control command including the number of times that the pattern change is counted each time a pattern change is started, and stores the command in a transmission command area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Note that the information included in the performance control command may be included in the above-mentioned change start command.

[0095] As described above, the main information storage means 160 is a means for temporarily storing data read by each means and data derived by calculations or the like by each means in the corresponding storage areas.

[0096] The main error control means 165 monitors the input information of the I / O port 104 and determines whether or not the gaming machine 10 is in an error state. If it is determined that the gaming machine 10 is in an error state, it stores a performance control command (error command) including information that can identify the error state in a transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0097] When a performance control command is stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160, the main command management means 170 transmits the performance control command to the first sub-control board 200. In principle, each performance control command is transmitted in the order in which it is stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0098] The power restoration process execution means 175 includes a restoration state setting means 176, an inspection state setting means 177, and a playable state transition means 179.

[0099] The recovery state setting means 176 executes a recovery state setting process to set a recovery state based on whether or not there is an abnormality in the RAM 103 when power is restored, the state at the time of power outage immediately before the power restoration, the state of the RAM clear switch 43 when power is restored, and the state of the inner frame door open sensor 76 when power is restored. The recovery state set by this process may or may not involve the execution of a RAM clear process. Specifically, if there is an abnormality in RAM 103 when power is restored, a game-stopped state is set regardless of the state of RAM clear switch 43 and the state of middle frame door open sensor 76 when power is restored. Also, if there is no abnormality in RAM 103 when power is restored and RAM clear switch 43 is ON (pressed state) when power is restored, RAM clear processing is executed on the condition that middle frame door open sensor 76 is ON when power is restored, and then the inspection possible state and playable state are set (if middle frame door open sensor 76 is OFF when power is restored, RAM clear processing is not executed). Also, if there is no abnormality in RAM 103 when power is restored and RAM clear switch 43 is OFF (not pressed state) when power is restored, RAM clear processing is not executed, and the playable state is set without going through the inspection possible state. The game stop state is a return state in which game progress is impossible by not executing processing according to the detection results of the sensors installed at each winning port (the detection results of the sensors themselves do not need to be looked at). The playable state is a restored state in which the game can be played by executing a process according to the detection results of the sensors installed in each winning slot. In particular, if the RAM clear process is not executed when power is restored, the game will return to the playable state at the time of the previous power outage. For example, if a big win game or a small win game was being played at the time of the previous power outage, the game will return to the big win game or small win game that was being played, and if a pattern change was being played at the time of the previous power outage, the game will return to the pattern change that was being played. The inspectable state is a state in which a predetermined notification is made based on detection by each detection means (a switch that detects the performance button 37 and cursor button 38, and a sensor that detects the operation of the movable ornament 22 and sub-display unit 82), thereby making it possible to notify whether each device is functioning normally. Details of the notification mode in the inspectable state will be described later.

[0100] In addition, whether or not there is an abnormality in RAM103 is determined by executing a RAM abnormality check (specifically, a process that determines whether or not a backup flag is stored (whether or not the backup flag is ON) in the backup information area related to the target area, and if the backup flag is stored (if the backup flag is ON), derives a checksum of the target area and the complement stored in the backup information area related to the area, and if the calculation result is 0, determines that the target area is normal, and otherwise determines that the target area is abnormal) performed on the area related to the game in RAM103.

[0101] The inspection-enabled state transition means 177 executes the process of transitioning to the inspection-enabled state described above. In this embodiment, the description is given of a mode in which the device can transition to an inspection-ready state when power is restored with the execution of a RAM clear process, but when implementing the present invention, it is also possible to adopt a mode in which the device can transition to an inspection-ready state when power is restored without the execution of a RAM clear process, or to adopt a mode in which the device can transition to an inspection-ready state regardless of whether a RAM clear process is executed or not.

[0102] The playable state transition means 179 executes the process of transitioning to the playable state described above. Specifically, when executing this processing, the playable state transition means 179 performs processing such as sending a launch permission command to the payout control board 400 to allow the launch of game balls, setting a state in which balls will be valid when they enter each winning slot, and setting data to activate the random number circuit 105, and if the security signal output is ON, it performs processing to turn it OFF. In this embodiment, when power is restored with the execution of a RAM clear process, the system is described as transitioning to a testable state, and then transitioning to a playable state in the middle of that testable state. However, when implementing the present invention, it is also possible to adopt a system in which the system can transition to a testable state in the middle of that playable state after transitioning to a playable state, or a system in which the system can transition to a playable state after terminating the testable state.

[0103] The power cutoff process execution means 180 executes the power cutoff process based on the reception of the power cutoff signal from the power supply control board 500. Specifically, for the area of ​​RAM 103 related to gaming, the checksum of that area is derived, the complement of that checksum is stored in the backup information area of ​​RAM 103 related to gaming, and a backup flag indicating that power-off processing has been performed on that area is turned ON (the backup flag is stored in the backup information area of ​​RAM 103 related to gaming).

[0104] As shown in Figure 7, the first sub-control board 200 is equipped with a sub-random number generating means 210, a normal performance control means 220, a sub-error control means 230, a lamp control means 240, a movable prop control means 245, a sub-information storage means 260, and a sub-command management means 270, and these means are functional representations of what is realized by each control configuration on the first sub-control board 200 described using Figure 6. Here, the sub-information storage means 260 is a means for temporarily storing data read by the means provided in the first sub-control board 200, data derived by calculations in the means, etc., in the corresponding storage areas. Also, the performance control command transmitted from the main command management means 170 is stored by the sub-command management means 270 in a received command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260. In the following explanation, the storage of the performance control command transmitted from the main command management means 170 in the received command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260 by the sub-command management means 270 may be simply referred to as "receiving a performance control command."

[0105] The sub-random number generating means 210 can generate random numbers (software random numbers) that are updated by the CPU 201 through program processing, and obtains random numbers at the timing when each lottery (details will be described later) is executed by the normal performance control means 220.

[0106] The normal presentation control means 220 includes a presentation mode control means 221, a presentation route determination means 222, a sub-hold control means 223, a pre-reading presentation control means 224, a presentation content determination means 225, a decorative pattern control means 226, and a jackpot presentation control means 227.

[0107] When the presentation mode control means 221 receives a game state designation command, it controls the transition of the presentation mode in a manner that is consistent with the special chart variation pattern derivation state managed on the main control board 100 side. The presentation modes in this embodiment are broadly divided into normal mode, challenge mode, and RUSH mode, with normal mode corresponding to the special chart variation pattern derivation state PA, challenge mode corresponding to the special chart variation pattern derivation state PB, and RUSH mode corresponding to the special chart variation pattern derivation state PC.

[0108] When receiving a preliminary determination command, the performance route determination means 222 determines (sets) a performance route corresponding to the currently reserved pattern change based on the result of the preliminary determination included in the command (in this embodiment, the special symbol change pattern). Note that if the special symbol change pattern corresponding to the pattern change is the above-mentioned special symbol change pattern HNP, the performance route determination means 222 does not determine a performance route when the preliminary determination command is transmitted, and determines a performance route based on the special symbol change pattern included in the change start command at the start of the pattern change (for example, if the special symbol change pattern derivation state PA, special symbol change pattern HNP-A to special symbol change pattern HNP-D). Here, the presentation route is the presentation from the start to the end of the pattern change, and specifies the process of the presentation that notifies the result of the special pattern judgment in the pattern change, and the content of the presentation executed in the pattern change will be determined by the presentation content determination means 225 described later in accordance with the presentation route corresponding to the pattern change.

[0109] The presentation route in this embodiment is roughly divided into a miss presentation route that notifies that the result of the special symbol hit / miss judgment in the current symbol change is a miss (the result of the special symbol hit / miss judgment in the current symbol change is neither a big hit nor a small hit), and a big hit presentation route that notifies that the result of the special symbol hit / miss judgment in the current symbol change is a big hit or a small hit. Furthermore, the miss presentation route includes a non-development miss presentation route in which the development presentation is not executed, and a development miss presentation route in which the development presentation is executed. Note that, as will be described later, when the big hit presentation route is determined, the development presentation is executed unless otherwise explained. Here, the development effect is an effect that is executed after the decorative symbols reach a reach state (a state in which all decorative symbols except for one symbol row are displayed stationary and the remaining symbol rows are displayed in a variable manner), and at the end of the effect, it is announced whether the result of the special symbol hit / miss judgment in the current symbol change is a big hit or a small hit. Therefore, in the development effect corresponding to the development miss effect route, a series of effects corresponding to the development effect is executed, and at the end of the effect, it is announced that the result of the special symbol hit / miss judgment in the current symbol change is neither a big hit nor a small hit. On the other hand, in the development effect corresponding to the big hit effect route, a series of effects corresponding to the development effect is executed, and at the end of the effect, it is announced that the result of the special symbol hit / miss judgment in the current symbol change is a big hit or a small hit. Also, as will be described later, in this embodiment, in one presentation mode, each determined special chart variation pattern corresponds to a different presentation route. Therefore, in the following description, the presentation route for the special chart variation pattern may be simply expressed as a special chart variation pattern. However, multiple presentation routes may be associated with one special chart variation pattern, and in this case, one presentation route may be determined from multiple presentation routes corresponding to the determined special chart variation pattern. Below, we will explain the contents of the presentation route corresponding to each special chart change pattern determined in each presentation mode.

[0110] First, the presentation routes corresponding to the special chart variation patterns HNP-A to HNP-D and the special chart variation pattern HRP, which are determined normally (special chart variation pattern derivation state PA), correspond to the non-development miss presentation route described above. Specifically, the special pattern variation patterns HNP-A to HNP-D correspond to a presentation route that notifies the user that the result of the special pattern hit / miss judgment in this pattern change is a miss when the decorative patterns are not in a reach state and are stopped and displayed in a barrage (a state in which all pattern rows are stopped and the same decorative pattern is not stopped and displayed in each pattern row). Here, the same decorative pattern refers to a decorative pattern that resembles the same number, and the parts other than the numbers that make up the decorative pattern may be different. Similarly, different decorative patterns refer to decorative patterns that resemble different numbers. The special pattern change pattern HRP corresponds to a presentation route in which the decorative pattern reaches a reach state, and then the decorative pattern stops and is displayed with scattered symbols without any development presentation being performed, thereby informing the player that the result of the special pattern hit / miss judgment for this pattern change is a miss. The special chart change patterns HSP1-A to HSP3-B correspond to the above-mentioned development miss performance route. In addition, for special chart change patterns HSP1-A to HSP3-B, the decorative pattern will be in a reach state, and then a development effect will be executed to notify that the result of the special chart hit / miss judgment for this pattern change is a miss, and after the development effect ends, the decorative pattern will be displayed stopped with a scattered pattern, which corresponds to the corresponding performance route. Furthermore, in the special pattern change patterns ASP1-A to ASP3-C, the decorative pattern will be in a reach state, and then a development effect will be executed to notify that the result of the special pattern hit / miss judgment in this pattern change is a jackpot, and after the development effect ends, the decorative pattern will be displayed stopped with the pattern aligned, corresponding to the presentation route.

[0111] When the sub-hold control means 223 receives a hold command (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as the occurrence of a hold winning), it sets performance data for displaying the number of hold images corresponding to the special chart 1 hold counter and the number of hold images corresponding to the special chart 2 hold counter in the hold display area (not shown) of the main display unit 81 based on the information of the special chart 1 hold counter and the special chart 2 hold counter included in the command. The hold images are images that are the subject of a hold pre-reading performance that changes into various forms that suggest the degree of advantage, such as the expectation of a jackpot game occurring.

[0112] When the pre-reading effect control means 224 receives a pre-determination command, it determines the content of the so-called pre-reading effect based on the result of the pre-determination included in the command. The pre-reading effect is a performance that suggests the expectation level for the result of the judgment on whether the special symbol will be selected or not in the pattern change of the pre-read target, and the content of the performance that will be executed in the pattern change of the pre-read target, before the pattern change of the pre-read target begins, with the aim of increasing interest in the game.

[0113] When the variation start command is received, the performance content determination means 225 determines the content of the performance to be executed in the current pattern variation according to the performance route already determined by the performance route determination means 222. More specifically, the effect content determination means 225 determines an effect pattern lottery table to be referenced for the content of the effect (effect pattern) for each effect execution timing in the pattern variation, based on the effect route determined by the effect route determination means 222, and determines the content of the effect by lottery using the determined effect pattern lottery table. In particular, by doing this, it is possible to change the content of the effect related to (executed according to) the determined effect route, and also to provide a connection between the effects in one pattern variation.

[0114] When the decorative pattern control means 226 receives a variation start command, it determines the final (determined stopped display) combination of decorative patterns (left pattern, center pattern, right pattern) based on the stopped pattern of the determined special pattern.

[0115] When the jackpot presentation control means 227 receives a presentation control command related to a jackpot game (start demo command, round start command, end demo command), it determines the content of the presentation during the jackpot game based on the type of the presentation control command and the information contained in the presentation control command. In addition, the effects that occur during jackpot play include a start demo effect that is executed based on the reception of a start demo command and notifies the player that a jackpot play has begun, a round effect that is executed based on the reception of a round start command and notifies the player that a round play is in progress, and an end demo effect that is executed based on the reception of an end demo command and notifies the player that a jackpot play has ended.

[0116] The normal performance control means 220 reads out performance data for each device corresponding to each performance at the execution timing of that performance, in accordance with the content of the performance determined by the above-mentioned means provided in the first sub-control board 200. If the read performance data includes performance data related to images, it generates image control commands based on that performance data and stores those commands in a transmission command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260. Furthermore, if the read performance data includes performance data related to sound, it generates audio control commands related to sound based on that performance data and stores those commands in a transmission command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260. Furthermore, if the restored state upon power restoration is a playable state following the execution of a RAM clear process, the normal presentation control means 220 reads presentation data for announcing that the playable state has been achieved following the execution of a RAM clear process, and if the restored state upon power restoration is a playable state without the execution of a RAM clear process, the normal presentation control means 220 reads presentation data for announcing that the playable state has been achieved without the execution of a RAM clear process. Furthermore, if a game-stop state is achieved, the normal presentation control means 220 reads presentation data for announcing that the game has been stopped and that a RAM clear process needs to be executed. Note that while details of these notifications are omitted, it is preferable that they continue to be executed for a certain period of time (e.g., 30 seconds) after execution has begun, and the presentation device for executing the notification does not matter.

[0117] When an error command is transmitted, the sub-error control means 230 determines an error notification pattern and reads out performance data for executing an error notification in accordance with the error notification pattern. It should be noted that the error notification is executed with priority over the variation effect. Here, the variation effect is executed during the execution of the pattern variation, including the start of the pattern variation, and refers to an effect that suggests the likelihood of a jackpot occurring in the pattern variation or the pending pattern variation. Furthermore, when the device involved in the execution of the error notification and the device involved in the execution of the variation effect are the same device, the error notification being executed with priority does not only mean that only the error notification is executed in that device (the execution of the variation effect is restricted by the execution of the error notification), but also means that the error notification is executed in that device in a manner that is easier to recognize than the variation effect. Furthermore, the sub-error control means 230 may independently (independently of the main error control means 165) determine whether the gaming machine 10 is in an error state, and if it determines that the gaming machine 10 is in an error state, read out performance data that executes an error notification.

[0118] The lamp control means 240 holds lamp control data for controlling the lighting of various lamps such as the frame lamp 35. For example, if the performance data read by the normal performance control means 220 contains performance data corresponding to a lamp, the lamp control means 240 reads out the lamp control data based on the performance data and transmits the read lamp control data to the lamp to be executed.

[0119] When the performance data read by the normal performance control means 220 contains performance data corresponding to a movable role, the movable role control means 245 reads movement control data for controlling the movement of the movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82 from ROM 202 based on the performance data, and transmits the read movement control data to the movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82 to control the movement of the movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82.

[0120] As described above, the sub-information storage means 260 is a means for temporarily storing data read out by the means provided in the first sub-control board 200, data derived by calculations in the means, etc. in corresponding storage areas.

[0121] The sub-command management means 270 receives performance control commands transmitted from the main control board 100 and stores the received performance commands in a received command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260. Furthermore, if an image control command is stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260, the sub-command management means 270 transmits the image control command to the second sub-control board 300. Furthermore, if an audio control command or a volume adjustment command is stored in the storage area, the sub-command management means 270 transmits these commands to the audio control board 310. Note that these commands are transmitted in the order in which they are stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260, as a general rule.

[0122] As described above, the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment is in a testable state, so that it is possible to appropriately check whether various devices function normally. Two embodiments that achieve the above-mentioned effects will be described below. Note that in implementing the present invention, the contents described in one embodiment and the contents described in the other embodiment do not necessarily need to be implemented separately, and may be implemented in combination with each other as long as no contradiction occurs.

[0123] <Regarding the first embodiment> A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 11 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when power is restored with RAM clear processing. FIG. 12(a) is a diagram showing the display state of the main display section 81 on the initial screen, and FIG. 12(b) is a diagram showing the display state of the main display section 81 on the examination screen. Figure 13(a) is a diagram showing the notification mode of the frame lamp 35, Figure 13(b) is a diagram showing the notification mode of the inspection screen (main display unit 81), and Figure 13(c) is a diagram showing the notification mode of the speaker 33. FIG. 14 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when a win occurs at the first starting hole 57 during the period T2 in which the inspection screen is displayed. FIG. 15 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when the effect button 37 or cursor button 38 is operated during the period T2 in which the inspection screen is displayed. Note that the "power-on" shown in FIG. 11 is a power-on accompanied by RAM clear processing in this embodiment, and this also applies to the time charts of FIGS.

[0124] In the first embodiment, the gaming machine 10 enters a testable state when the power is turned on with a RAM clear process, and the testable state is maintained for a period T1. The testable state ends after a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds after power is turned on) unless any additional conditions are added thereafter, as shown in Figure 11. At this time, the speaker 33 outputs a sound (RAM clear sound) to notify that the RAM clear process has been executed. In this embodiment, the time for which the speaker 33 outputs the sound is constant, for example, 30 seconds after power-on.

[0125] In the situation shown in Fig. 11, the main display unit 81 displays an initial screen. The initial screen of the main display unit 81 in this embodiment is a screen in which "Now Loading..." is displayed in the center of the screen, as shown in Fig. 12(a). Note that the initial screen of the main display unit 81 may be any display that can be distinguished from the main display unit 81 in the power outage state, and the example shown in Fig. 12(a) is merely one specific example. For example, it may be a plain screen, or may be a screen with a different notation from that shown in Fig. 12(a). Next, the main display unit 81 displays an inspection screen. As shown in FIG. 12(b), the inspection screen of the main display unit 81 in this embodiment includes a display related to the effect button 37 (hereinafter simply referred to as the "effect button display"), a display related to the up cursor button 38a (hereinafter simply referred to as the "up cursor button display"), a display related to the down cursor button 38b (hereinafter simply referred to as the "down cursor button display"), a display related to the left cursor button 38c (hereinafter simply referred to as the "left cursor button display"), a display related to the right cursor button 38d (hereinafter simply referred to as the "right cursor button display"), a display related to the middle cursor button 38e (hereinafter simply referred to as the "middle cursor button display"), a display related to the movable ornament 22 (hereinafter simply referred to as the "movable ornament display"), and a display related to the sub-display unit 82 (hereinafter simply referred to as the "sub-display unit display"). The notification mode of the inspection screen will be described later. Furthermore, if no further conditions are added, the main display unit 81 continues to display the test screen for a period T2, and then displays a demo screen, as shown in Figure 11. Although not shown, the demo screen in this embodiment is a screen that is displayed on the main display unit 81 while waiting for a game.

[0126] 11, the sub-display unit 82 executes an initial operation. In this embodiment, the initial operation of the sub-display unit 82 is an operation of moving from the original position to the front of the main display unit 81 and then returning to the original position. Sensors of the sub-display unit 82 (not shown) are provided at both the original position and the position after movement of the sub-display unit 82, and the initial operation of the sub-display unit 82 is a process of checking the normality of the actuator that controls the movement of the sub-display unit 82, as well as a process of checking the normality of the sensor of the sub-display unit 82. If the initial operation of the sub-display unit 82 is completed normally, the speaker 33 outputs a voice message saying "The sub-display unit is normal" at the end of the operation. This allows the normality of the sub-display unit 82 to be confirmed by voice without having to see the initial operation of the sub-display unit 82. Next, the movable decorative body 22 performs an initial operation. In this embodiment, the initial operation of the movable decorative body 22 is an operation in which the movable decorative body 22 vibrates due to the activation of an actuator (not shown) contained within the movable decorative body 22. Note that, in this embodiment, the color LED contained within the movable decorative body 22 does not emit light during the initial operation of the movable decorative body 22. This is because increasing the number of objects to be checked during inspection may impair their visibility. If the initial operation of the movable decorative body 22 is completed normally, the speaker 33 outputs a voice message saying "The movable decorative body is normal." This allows the normality of the movable decorative body 22 to be confirmed by voice without having to see the initial operation of the movable decorative body 22. In Figure 11, the initial operation of the movable decorative body 22 is shown to be executed after the initial operation of the sub-display unit 82 has been completed, but the implementation of the present invention is not necessarily limited to this form, and at least part of the execution period of each initial operation may overlap, or the initial operation of the movable decorative body 22 may be executed before the initial operation of the sub-display unit 82.

[0127] Next, notifications executed in accordance with each sensor during the above-mentioned period T1 (period during which the test is possible) and period T2 (period during which the test screen is displayed) will be described for each device. In the first embodiment, since the period T2 is included in the period T1, all of the notifications that can be performed in the period T2 can also be performed in the period T1, while some of the notifications that can be performed in the period T1 are not performed in the period T2. Specifically, during the period T2, the gaming machine 10 can execute the notification of the frame lamp 35 shown in Fig. 13(a), the notification of the inspection screen shown in Fig. 13(b), and the notification of the speaker 33 shown in Fig. 13(c). Also, during the period T1 that does not overlap with the period T2 (the difference between the period T1 and the period T2), the gaming machine 10 can execute the notification of the frame lamp 35 shown in Fig. 13(a) and the notification of the speaker 33 shown in Fig. 13(c), but cannot execute the notification of the inspection screen shown in Fig. 13(b).

[0128] During the period when the above-mentioned notification by the frame lamp 35 can be executed, as shown in Figure 13(a), the gaming machine 10 can make the frame lamp 35 light up in white when it detects an operation on the effect button 37, make the frame lamp 35 light up in blue when it detects an operation on the left cursor button 38c, make the frame lamp 35 light up in yellow when it detects an operation on the right cursor button 38d, make the frame lamp 35 light up in green when it detects an operation on the middle cursor button 38e, make the frame lamp 35 light up in purple when it detects an operation on the up cursor button 38a, and make the frame lamp 35 light up in red when it detects an operation on the down cursor button 38b.

[0129] During the period in which the above-described inspection screen notification can be performed, the gaming machine 10 changes the display mode of the corresponding display each time it detects an operation on the target operating means (effect button 37 and cursor button 38), as shown in FIG. 13(b). For example, in the initial stage of the period (i.e., the default display mode), the gaming machine 10 displays all displays in white. Thereafter, for example, when the first operation on the effect button 37 is detected, the effect button display is displayed in blue; when the second operation on the effect button 37 is detected, the effect button display is displayed in yellow; when the third operation on the effect button 37 is detected, the effect button display is displayed in green; when the fourth operation on the effect button 37 is detected, the effect button display is displayed in purple; and when the fifth operation on the effect button 37 is detected, the effect button display is displayed in red. Note that when the sixth operation on the effect button 37 is detected, the display returns to white, and the above-described change in display mode is repeated for subsequent detections. Furthermore, during the period when the above-mentioned inspection screen notification can be executed, when the gaming machine 10 detects the operation of the target device (initial operation of the sub-display unit 82 and the movable ornament 22), it changes the display mode of the corresponding display from white to blue. Note that, as shown in Figure 11, in this embodiment, the initial operation of the sub-display unit 82 and the movable ornament 22 is performed only once each, so the sub-display unit display and the movable ornament display will not be in a display mode other than white and blue, but if any of the initial operations can be performed multiple times, the corresponding display may change to a display mode of yellow or later.

[0130] During the period when the above-mentioned notification from the speaker 33 can be executed, as shown in Figure 13 (c), the gaming machine 10 can output sound effect SE1 from the speaker 33 when it detects an operation on the effect button 37, output sound effect SE2 from the speaker 33 when it detects an operation on the left cursor button 38c, output sound effect SE3 from the speaker 33 when it detects an operation on the right cursor button 38d, output sound effect SE4 from the speaker 33 when it detects an operation on the middle cursor button 38e, output sound effect SE5 from the speaker 33 when it detects an operation on the up cursor button 38a, and output sound effect SE6 from the speaker 33 when it detects an operation on the down cursor button 38b.

[0131] Furthermore, during the above-mentioned period T1 (period in which the device is in an inspection-enabled state), the luminous color of the effect button 37 changes based on the operation of the effect button 37, just as during execution of the button operation effect. Also, during the above-mentioned period T1, the cursor buttons 38 effectively function as operations related to volume adjustment and brightness adjustment, as in normal game play. More specifically, the gaming machine 10 can increase the brightness of the main display unit 81 and the frame lamp 35 when it detects an operation on the left cursor button 38c, decrease the brightness of the main display unit 81 and the frame lamp 35 when it detects an operation on the right cursor button 38d, increase the volume of the speaker 33 when it detects an operation on the up cursor button 38a, and decrease the volume of the speaker 33 when it detects an operation on the down cursor button 38b. In this way, operations on the effect button 37 and cursor button 38 during the above-mentioned period T1 can cause changes that are recognizable during normal play, separate from the notifications described using Figure 13, allowing the inspection operator to recognize the execution of each function. In this embodiment, the RAM clear sound is not affected by volume adjustment and its volume remains unchanged, so the change in volume does not make the operator aware that the volume adjustment function is active.

[0132] Next, a case where a specific condition is added to the situation shown in FIG. 11 will be described.

[0133] In this embodiment, the period T2 is a playable state, so when a winning occurs at the first starting port 57, the pattern is changed based on the winning, and the game can proceed. The changes in the operation of each device in this case are shown in the time chart of FIG. In this embodiment, the inspection state can end when the symbol change starts. Therefore, in the situation shown in Figure 14, the period T1 (the inspection state period) ends when the first start slot 57 wins (the timing indicated as "start slot win" in the figure). On the other hand, if period T2 (the period during which the inspection screen is displayed) ends immediately upon the end of the inspection-enabled state, there is a possibility that the status of each device reported on the inspection screen will not be confirmed, so period T2 does not end at that timing and continues until the start of the next pattern change (the timing indicated as "start of next change" in the figure). Although not shown, it is desirable that the inspection screen displayed on the main display unit 81 display a change corresponding to the pattern change while the pattern change is being executed (for example, displaying a change using a miniature pattern in the corner of the screen). Thereafter, the main display unit 81 displays a game screen as shown in Fig. 14. Although not shown, the game screen in this embodiment is a screen including a variable display of a symbol string consisting of three decorative symbols.

[0134] As described above, in this embodiment, the gaming machine 10 maintains period T2 (the period during which the inspection screen is displayed) even after period T1 (the period during which inspection is possible) has ended, so that the operation of each device can be continuously checked.

[0135] On the other hand, during the period T2, when an operation on the operation means to be inspected (the performance button 37 or the cursor button 38) is detected, the above-described change in the notification mode occurs based on the detection. The changes in the operation of each device in this case are shown in the time chart of FIG. In this embodiment, period T2 (the period during which the inspection screen is displayed) can be extended on the condition that an operation on the effect button 37 or cursor button 38 is detected. Therefore, in the situation shown in FIG. 15, period T2 is maintained for period T3 (e.g., 10 seconds) from the time when the effect button 37 or cursor button 38 is operated (the timing indicated as "button operation" in the figure). Furthermore, period T1 (the period during which the inspection is possible) can also be extended in accordance with this extension. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 14, the main display unit 81 displays a demo screen, which is the same as the situation shown in FIG.

[0136] As described above, the gaming machine 10 according to the first embodiment is equipped with a first detection means (sensor of the performance button 37) and a second detection means (sensor of the movable decorative body 22). During the first period (period T1 shown in Figure 11), the fact that the detection by the first detection means is valid is notified in a first manner (white light emission from the frame lamp 35 and output of SE1 by the speaker 33), and the fact that the detection by the second detection means is valid is notified in a second manner (audio output of ``The movable decorative object is normal'' by the speaker 33). During a second period (period T2 shown in Figure 11) that overlaps at least partially with the first period, the detection by the first detection means is notified in a third manner (display manner of the performance button display on the inspection screen), and the detection by the second detection means is notified in a fourth manner (display manner of the movable decorative object display on the inspection screen). The function based on the detection by the first detection means (change in the luminous color of the effect button 37) can be executed in at least one of the first period and the second period, and when the function is executed, it can be recognized in a manner different from either the first manner or the third manner. The function based on the detection by the second detection means (vibration of the movable decorative body 22) can be executed in at least one of the first period and the second period, and when the function is executed, it can be recognized in a manner different from either the second manner or the fourth manner. By having the above-mentioned features, the gaming machine 10 can confirm the effectiveness of the detection means of the object to be inspected by the notification manner of various devices (frame lamp 35, main display unit 81, speaker 33), and can also confirm the manner in which the functions related to specific devices are executed in parallel.

[0137] As described above, the notification state in the period T1 can be recognized by the notification of the frame lamp 35, and the notification state in the period T2 can be recognized by the notification of the main display unit 81. On the other hand, the execution of a function based on detection by the sensor of the performance button 37 can be recognized by the operation of the built-in lamp of the performance button 37 (switching of the lit lamp), and the execution of a function based on detection by the sensor of the movable decorative body 22 can be recognized by the operation (vibration) of the movable decorative body 22. In other words, the execution of a function based on detection by the first detection means (sensor of the performance button 37) can be recognized by the operation of a device (built-in lamp of the performance button 37) different from at least one of the first device or the second device, and the execution of a function based on detection by the second detection means (sensor of the movable decorative body 22) can be recognized by the operation of a device (movable decorative body 22) different from at least one of the first device or the second device. In this way, by being able to recognize each by different devices, the inspection work can be carried out more easily.

[0138] Although the sensor of the performance button 37 is listed as the configuration corresponding to the first detection means and the sensor of the movable decorative body 22 is listed as the configuration corresponding to the second detection means, it is possible to use a sensor related to another configuration as described above, and the combination may be changed as appropriate within the scope of satisfying the above requirements.

[0139] As described above, in both periods T1 and T2 in this embodiment, the color LED contained in the movable decorative body 22 does not emit light, and the light emission pattern does not allow confirmation of the effectiveness of the detection means related to the device being inspected. In other words, the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment can be said to be equipped with an alarm means (a color LED contained in the movable decorative body 22) that is not used for either the first mode of alarm or the second mode of alarm (alert by the frame lamp 35 or speaker 33), or the third mode of alarm or the fourth mode of alarm (alert on the inspection screen). In this embodiment, the period during which inspection is possible is limited, and therefore, if all notification means are subject to inspection, this may hinder the inspection work, so some notification means are not used for inspection.

[0140] The initial screen (see Figure 12(a)) displayed during period T1 but not period T2 is a different image from the examination screen (see Figure 12(b)) that may be displayed during the period when periods T1 and T2 overlap and during period T2 but not period T1, and this difference makes it possible to distinguish between the respective periods independently of the notification mode related to the examination. In other words, in the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, at least during the period in which the first period (period T1) and the second period (period T2) do not overlap, the first period and the second period can be distinguished by the difference between the first mode and the third mode (change in the notification mode by the frame lamp 35 and the speaker 33), and the difference between the second mode and the fourth mode (change in the display mode of each display included in the inspection screen), as well as by a difference in a different mode (difference between the initial screen and the inspection screen). In this way, by making it possible to clearly distinguish between the first period and the second period, it is possible to improve the ease of the inspection work.

[0141] In the above explanation, the sensor of the effect button 37 is mentioned as a component corresponding to the first detection means. As shown in FIG. 13, the notification mode by the frame lamp 35 and the speaker 33 changes depending on the target operating means, whereas the notification mode by the inspection screen changes each time an operating means is detected. In other words, it can be said that at least the first detection means (sensor of the effect button 37) is a means for detecting an operation, the first mode (notification mode by the frame lamp 35 or speaker 33) is a mode that does not change even if the operation detected by the first detection means is performed multiple times in the first period, and the third mode (notification mode by the inspection screen) is a mode that changes each time the first detection means detects an operation in the second period. In this way, by differentiating the content that can be confirmed by the first aspect from the content that can be recognized by the third aspect, when the first period and the second period overlap, a more multifaceted inspection can be achieved than when only the first period is present, and the accuracy of the inspection work can be improved.

[0142] In addition, in this embodiment, notifications using the frame lamp 35 and speaker 33 can be performed using the same device regardless of the target operating means (performance button 37, left cursor button 38c, right cursor button 38d, middle cursor button 38e, up cursor button 38a, and down cursor button 38b), while notifications using the inspection screen can be performed using dedicated displays provided for each of the target operating means. In other words, the gaming machine 10 has multiple first detection means, and the first mode (alert mode using the frame lamp 35 or speaker 33) is an alert mode that is realized by the same device regardless of the alert based on detection by any of the first detection means, and the third mode (alert mode using the inspection screen) is an alert mode that is realized by individual displays provided for different first detection means. This makes it easier to carry out an inspection operation to check the effectiveness of a plurality of detection means in parallel in the second period compared to the first period. Furthermore, in the inspection work in the second period, it is possible to check the validity of another first detection means while maintaining the display mode of the display related to the first detection means previously checked.

[0143] As shown in FIG. 11, in the present embodiment, a period T2 starts midway through the period T1 and continues thereafter. Therefore, in a situation where the notification mode (first mode) confirmed during inspection work during a period that is only period T1 (period T1 but not period T2) continues, inspection work becomes possible using the notification mode (third mode) during period T2.

[0144] 14, if a win occurs in the first starting port 57 when the periods T1 and T2 overlap, only the period T1 ends and the period T2 continues. The end conditions for the period T1 are not limited to the above and can be changed as appropriate. For example, the end conditions for the period T1 may be the receipt of a predetermined operation, the passage of a predetermined time from a predetermined timing (for example, when the power is turned on or when the last operation is received), or the like. In other words, in this embodiment, when the first period (period T1) and the second period (period T2) overlap and a predetermined condition (winning at the first starting port 57) is met, the gaming machine 10 ends the first period and continues the second period. This allows the inspector to stop the inspection work in the notification mode (first mode) that can be confirmed in the first period and concentrate on the inspection work in the notification mode (third mode) that can be confirmed in the second period.

[0145] As described above, the period T1 (the period during which the test is possible) in this embodiment is a period that starts when the power is turned on with the RAM clearing process, and does not start when the power is turned on without the RAM clearing process. However, in the practice of the present invention, the period T1 may start when the power is turned on with or without the RAM clearing process. In other words, the first period (period T1) can be said to be a period that can start based on power-on. In this way, by setting the first period during which inspection is possible immediately after the power is turned on, the effectiveness of each detection means can be confirmed before playing, and a loss of motivation among players due to device failure can be prevented.

[0146] As shown in the time charts of Figures 11, 14, and 15, the playable state in this embodiment begins while the initial screen is displayed. Therefore, the inspection-ready state, the playable state, and the display of the inspection screen begin in this order. Note that the above time sequence is merely one example of an embodiment of the present invention and can be modified as appropriate. For example, the inspection screen may be displayed, the playable state, and the inspection-ready state may begin in this order. In other words, the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment can be said to be capable of setting a specific period (period in a playable state) in which game play can proceed after power is turned on without going through either the first period (period T1 in an inspection-ready state) or the second period (period T2 in which an inspection screen is displayed). This makes it possible to proceed with the game without performing either the inspection work in the first mode (notification mode using the frame lamp 35 or speaker 33) or the inspection work in the third mode (notification mode using the inspection screen), thereby realizing smooth game progress.

[0147] As shown in the time charts of Figures 11, 14, and 15, the playable state in this embodiment can be set to overlap both periods T1 and T2. Note that this is merely one specific example of an embodiment of the present invention and can be modified as appropriate. For example, the playable state may be set to overlap only one of periods T1 or T2. That is, it can be said that the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment can perform a game that overlaps with at least one of the first period (period T1) and the second period (period T2). This allows inspection work to be carried out while the game is in progress.

[0148] In the above explanation, the sensor of the performance button 37 is described as the component corresponding to the first detection means, and the sensor of the movable decorative body 22 is described as the component corresponding to the second detection means, but other detection means exist, for example, the sensor of the sub-display unit 82. 11, 14, and 15, the initial operation of the sub-display unit 82 in this embodiment is performed across the periods T1 and T2. Note that this is merely one specific example of the embodiment of the present invention, and the initial operation of the sub-display unit 82 may be performed in a period included in only one of the periods T1 and T2. In other words, the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment further includes a third detection means (sensor of the sub-display unit 82), and can recognize that the detection of the third detection means is valid during the first period (period T1) or the second period (period T2). This allows the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment to perform inspection work targeting a greater number of detection means.

[0149] <Regarding the second embodiment> A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 16 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when power is restored with RAM clear processing. FIG. 17 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when the left cursor button 38c and the right cursor button 38d are simultaneously operated while the operation instruction screen is displayed. Figure 18(a) is a diagram showing the display mode of the main display unit 81 on the initial screen, Figure 18(b) is a diagram showing the display mode of the main display unit 81 on the operation instruction screen, and Figure 18(c) is a diagram showing the display mode of the main display unit 81 on the examination screen. FIG. 19 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when a win occurs at the first starting hole 57 during the period T12 when the inspection screen is displayed. FIG. 20 is a time chart showing the operation of each device when an operation is made on the effect button 37 or cursor button 38 during the period T12 in which the test screen is displayed.

[0150] In the second embodiment, the gaming machine 10 enters a testable state when the power is turned on, which is accompanied by a RAM clear process, as in the first embodiment. The testable state ends after a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds after power is turned on) unless any additional conditions are added thereafter, as shown in Figure 16. At this time, the speaker 33 outputs a RAM clear sound, similar to the first embodiment.

[0151] In the situation shown in Fig. 16, the main display unit 81 displays an initial screen. The initial screen of the main display unit 81 in this embodiment is as shown in Fig. 18(a), and is the same as the initial screen in the first embodiment (see Fig. 12(a)). Next, the main display unit 81 differs from the first embodiment in that it displays an operation instruction screen. As shown in Fig. 18(b), the operation instruction screen of the main display unit 81 in this embodiment includes text information saying "Press the left and right cursors simultaneously to display the examination screen." Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 16, if no further conditions are added, the main display unit 81 continues to display the operation instruction screen for a period T11, and then displays the demo screen.

[0152] Furthermore, in the situation shown in Figure 16, the sub-display unit 82 and the movable decorative body 22 perform their initial operations, which is the same as in the first embodiment, so detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0153] Next, FIG. 17 shows how each device operates when the left cursor button 38c and the right cursor button 38d are simultaneously operated while the above-mentioned operation instruction screen is displayed (period T11). At this time, the main display unit 81 displays the examination screen. As shown in Fig. 18(c), the examination screen of the main display unit 81 in this embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment (see Fig. 12(b)). Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 17, if no further conditions are added, the main display unit 81 continues to display the test screen for a period T12, and then displays the demo screen.

[0154] Next, the notifications executed in accordance with the sensors during the above-mentioned period T11 (period during which the operation instruction screen is displayed) and period T12 (period during which the test screen is displayed) will be described. In the second embodiment, the period T11 and the period T12 are completely different periods and do not overlap each other. During the period T11, the gaming machine 10 can execute the notification by the frame lamp 35 and the notification by the speaker 33, but cannot execute the notification on the inspection screen. Furthermore, during the period T12, the gaming machine 10 may perform notification using the frame lamp 35, notification on the inspection screen, and notification using the speaker 33. The respective notification modes are the same as those explained in the first embodiment with reference to FIG. 13, and therefore detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0155] During the period T11 shown in FIG. 16 and during the periods T11 and T12 shown in FIG. 17, the luminous color of the effect button 37 changes based on the operation of the effect button 37, just as when the button operation effect is being executed. 16 and the periods T11 and T12 shown in Fig. 17, the cursor buttons 38 effectively function as operations related to volume adjustment and brightness adjustment, just as during normal gameplay. More specifically, the gaming machine 10 can increase the brightness of the main display unit 81 and the frame lamp 35 when detecting an operation on the left cursor button 38c, decrease the brightness of the main display unit 81 and the frame lamp 35 when detecting an operation on the right cursor button 38d, increase the volume of the speaker 33 when detecting an operation on the up cursor button 38a, and decrease the volume of the speaker 33 when detecting an operation on the down cursor button 38b. In this way, as in the first embodiment, operations on the effect button 37 and cursor button 38 during periods T11 and T12 cause changes that are recognizable during normal play, separate from the notifications described using Figure 13, allowing the inspection operator to recognize the execution of each function. As in the first embodiment, the RAM clear sound in this embodiment is not affected by volume adjustment.

[0156] Next, a case where a specific condition is added to the situation shown in FIG. 17 will be described.

[0157] In this embodiment, the period T12 is a playable state, so when a winning occurs at the first starting port 57, the pattern is changed based on the winning, and the game can proceed. The changes in the operation of each device in this case are shown in the time chart of FIG. In this embodiment, the inspection-enabled state can end when the symbol change starts. Therefore, the inspection-enabled state period ends when the first start slot 57 wins (the timing indicated as "start slot win" in the figure). On the other hand, period T12 (the period during which the inspection screen is displayed) does not end immediately upon the end of the inspection-enabled state, but continues until the start of the next pattern change (the timing indicated as "start of next change" in the same figure), which is similar to period T2 in the first embodiment. After that, as shown in FIG. 19, the main display unit 81 displays a game screen.

[0158] As described above, in the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, even after the inspection-enabled state ends, the period T12 (the period during which the inspection screen is displayed) is maintained, so that the operation of each device can be continuously checked.

[0159] On the other hand, in the period T12, when an operation on the operation means to be inspected (the performance button 37 or the cursor button 38) is detected, the above-mentioned change in the notification mode occurs based on the detection. The changes in the operation of each device in this case are shown in the time chart of FIG. In this embodiment, the period T12 (the period during which the inspection screen is displayed) can be extended on the condition that an operation on the effect button 37 or the cursor button 38 is detected. Therefore, in the situation shown in FIG. 20, the period T12 is maintained for a period T13 (e.g., 10 seconds) from the time when the effect button 37 or the cursor button 38 is operated (the timing indicated as "button operation" in the figure). In addition, the period during which the inspection is possible can also be extended in accordance with this extension. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 20, the main display unit 81 displays a demo screen, which is the same as the situation shown in FIG.

[0160] As described above, the gaming machine 10 according to the second embodiment includes a first detection means (a sensor of the effect button 37) and a second detection means (a sensor of the sub-display unit 81). During a first period (period T11 shown in FIG. 17), the fact that the detection by the first detection means is valid is notified in a first manner (purple light emission from the frame lamp 35 and output of SE5 by the speaker 33), and the fact that the detection by the second detection means is valid is notified in a second manner (audio output of "The sub-display unit is normal" by the speaker 33). In a second period (period T12 shown in Figure 17) different from the first period, the detection by the first detection means is notified in a third manner (display manner of the effect button display on the inspection screen), and the detection by the second detection means is notified in a fourth manner (display manner of the sub-display unit display on the inspection screen). The function based on the detection by the first detection means (change in the luminous color of the effect button 37) can be executed in at least one of the first period and the second period, and when the function is executed, it can be recognized in a manner different from either the first manner or the third manner. The function based on the detection by the second detection means (movement of the sub-display unit 82) can be executed in at least one of the first period and the second period, and when the function is executed, it can be recognized in a manner different from either the second manner or the fourth manner. By having the above-mentioned features, the gaming machine 10 can confirm the effectiveness of the detection means of the object to be inspected by the notification manner of various devices (frame lamp 35, main display unit 81, speaker 33), and can also confirm the manner in which the functions related to specific devices are executed in parallel.

[0161] As described above, the notification state in the period T11 can be recognized by the notification of the frame lamp 35, and the notification state in the period T12 can be recognized by the notification of the main display unit 81. On the other hand, the execution of a function based on detection by the sensor of the performance button 37 can be recognized by the operation of the built-in lamp of the performance button 37 (switching of the lit lamp), and the execution of a function based on detection by the sensor of the movable decorative body 22 can be recognized by the operation (vibration) of the movable decorative body 22. In other words, the execution of a function based on detection by the first detection means (sensor of the effect button 37) can be recognized by the operation of a device (built-in lamp of the effect button 37) different from at least one of the first device or the second device, and the execution of a function based on detection by the second detection means (sensor of the sub-display unit 82) can be recognized by the operation of a device (sub-display unit 82) different from at least one of the first device or the second device. In this way, by being able to recognize each by different devices, the inspection work can be carried out more easily.

[0162] Although the sensor of the performance button 37 is listed as the configuration corresponding to the first detection means and the sensor of the sub-display unit 82 is listed as the configuration corresponding to the second detection means, it is possible to use a sensor related to another configuration as described above, and the combination may be changed as appropriate within the scope of satisfying the above requirements.

[0163] In this embodiment, the color LED contained in the movable decorative body 22 does not emit light during either period T11 or period T12, as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the effectiveness of the detection means for the device being inspected cannot be confirmed based on the emission mode of the color LED. In other words, the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment can be said to be equipped with an alarm means (a color LED contained in the movable decorative body 22) that is not used for either the first mode of alarm or the second mode of alarm (alert by the frame lamp 35 or speaker 33), or the third mode of alarm or the fourth mode of alarm (alert on the inspection screen). The inspection possible state in this embodiment has a limited period, as in the first embodiment, and therefore, since inspecting all notification means may hinder the inspection work, some notification means are not used for inspection.

[0164] The operation instruction screen displayed during period T11 (see Figure 18(b)) is a different image from the examination screen that may be displayed during period T12 (see Figure 18(c)), and this difference makes it possible to distinguish between the respective periods independently of the notification mode related to the examination. In other words, in this embodiment, the gaming machine 10 can be said to be distinguishable between the first period (period T11) and the second period (period T12) by the difference between the first mode and the third mode (change in the notification mode by the frame lamp 35 and the speaker 33), and the difference between the second mode and the fourth mode (change in the display mode of each display included in the inspection screen), and by the difference between a different mode (difference between the operation instruction screen and the inspection screen). In this way, by making it possible to clearly distinguish between the first period and the second period, it is possible to improve the ease of the inspection work.

[0165] In the above explanation, the sensor of the effect button 37 is mentioned as a component corresponding to the first detection means. As described above, the notification mode by the frame lamp 35 and the speaker 33 changes depending on the target operating means, whereas the notification mode by the inspection screen changes each time an operating means is detected. In other words, it can be said that at least the first detection means (sensor of the effect button 37) is a means for detecting an operation, the first mode (notification mode by the frame lamp 35 or speaker 33) is a mode that does not change even if the operation detected by the first detection means is performed multiple times in the first period, and the third mode (notification mode by the inspection screen) is a mode that changes each time the first detection means detects an operation in the second period. In this way, by differentiating the content that can be confirmed by the first aspect from the content that can be recognized by the third aspect, when the first period and the second period overlap, a more multifaceted inspection can be achieved than when only the first period is present, and the accuracy of the inspection work can be improved.

[0166] In addition, in this embodiment, notifications by the frame lamp 35 and the speaker 33 can be performed using the same device regardless of the target operating means, while notifications by the inspection screen can be performed using dedicated displays provided for each target operating means. In other words, the gaming machine 10 has multiple first detection means, and the first mode (alert mode using the frame lamp 35 or speaker 33) is an alert mode that is realized by the same device regardless of the alert based on detection by any of the first detection means, and the third mode (alert mode using the inspection screen) is an alert mode that is realized by individual displays provided for different first detection means. This makes it easier to carry out an inspection operation to check the effectiveness of a plurality of detection means in parallel in the second period compared to the first period. Furthermore, in the inspection work in the second period, it is possible to check the validity of another first detection means while maintaining the display mode of the display related to the first detection means previously checked.

[0167] 17, period T11 in this embodiment may start period T12 during the period, and ends immediately before the start of period T12. However, in this embodiment, notifications that can be performed in period T11 (notifications from the frame lamp 35 and the speaker 33) can also be performed in period T12, and therefore notifications performed in period T11 can be carried over after the start of period T12 (for example, audio output of "The sub-display unit is normal" that started in period T11 can be continued after the start of period T12). Therefore, in a situation where the notification mode (second mode) confirmed in the inspection work in the period T11 continues, the inspection work becomes possible in the notification mode (fourth mode) in the period T12.

[0168] 17, if the left cursor button 38c and the right cursor button 38d are operated simultaneously during the period T11, the period T11 ends and the period T12 begins. The end conditions for the period T11 are not limited to the above and can be changed as appropriate. For example, the end condition for the period T11 may be the start of the symbol variation (winning the start slot) as in the first embodiment, or alternatively, the lapse of a predetermined time from a predetermined timing (for example, when the power is turned on or when the last operation is accepted). In other words, in this embodiment, the gaming machine 10 starts the second period (period T12) when a predetermined condition (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the right cursor button 38d) is met in the first period (period T11). This allows the inspector to stop the inspection work in the notification mode (first mode) that can be confirmed in the first period and concentrate on the inspection work in the notification mode (third mode) that can be confirmed in the second period.

[0169] As described above, the period T11 in this embodiment (the period during which the operation instruction screen is displayed) is a period that starts when the power is turned on with RAM clear processing (after the initial screen, which is displayed as a result of the power being turned on), and does not start when the power is turned on without RAM clear processing. However, in the practice of the present invention, the period T11 may start with every power-on, regardless of whether RAM clear processing is performed or not. In other words, the first period (period T11) can be said to be a period that can start based on power-on. In this embodiment, the first period is a period during which inspection work can be performed and an inspection screen that allows for more detailed inspection work to be called up. By providing such a first period after power-on, the effectiveness of each detection means can be confirmed before playing, and a loss of motivation of the player due to device failure can be prevented.

[0170] As shown in the time charts of Figures 16, 17, 19, and 20, the playable state in this embodiment begins while the initial screen is displayed. Therefore, the playable state, the operation instruction screen, and the inspection screen are displayed in this order. Note that the above time sequence is merely one example of an embodiment of the present invention and can be modified as appropriate. For example, the operation instruction screen may be displayed, the playable state may be displayed, and the inspection screen may be displayed in this order, or the inspection screen may be displayed, the playable state, and the operation instruction screen may be displayed in this order. In other words, the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment can be said to be capable of setting a specific period (a period in which the game is playable) during which the game can proceed after the power is turned on without going through either the first period (period T11 during which the operation instruction screen is displayed) or the second period (period T12 during which the inspection screen is displayed). This makes it possible to proceed with the game without performing either the inspection work in the first mode (notification mode using the frame lamp 35 or speaker 33) or the inspection work in the third mode (notification mode using the inspection screen), thereby realizing smooth game progress.

[0171] As shown in the time charts of Figures 16, 17, 19, and 20, the playable state in this embodiment can be set to overlap both the period T11 and the period T12. Note that this is merely one specific example of an embodiment of the present invention and can be modified as appropriate. For example, the playable state may be set to overlap only one of the period T11 or the period T12. That is, it can be said that the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment can perform a game that overlaps with at least one of the first period (period T11) and the second period (period T12). This allows inspection work to be carried out while the game is in progress.

[0172] In the above explanation, the sensor of the performance button 37 is described as the component corresponding to the first detection means, and the sensor of the sub-display unit 82 is described as the component corresponding to the second detection means, but other detection means exist, for example, the sensor of the movable decorative body 22. 17, 19, and 20, the initial operation of the movable decorative body 22 in this embodiment is performed across periods T11 and T12. Note that this is only one specific example of the implementation of the present invention, and the initial operation of the movable decorative body 22 may be performed in a period included in only one of periods T11 or T12. In other words, the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment further includes a third detection means (sensor of the movable decorative body 22), and can recognize that the detection of the third detection means is valid during the first period (period T11) or the second period (period T12). This allows the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment to perform inspection work targeting a greater number of detection means.

[0173] <Other variations> Modifications not mentioned in the above description are listed below.

[0174] The controls shown in the drawings and the like in the inventions according to the above embodiments are specific examples for realizing the above-mentioned inventions, and do not limit the specific control content of each invention. In other words, each of the above-mentioned inventions merely describes the phenomena.

[0175] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which each device and its sensor (detection means) to be inspected are all controlled by the first sub-control board 200 (so-called sub-control configuration), but the implementation of the present invention is not limited to this, and devices and their sensors controlled by the main board 100 (so-called main control configuration) may also be inspected. Furthermore, the combination of means corresponding to the first detection means and second detection means of the present invention can be changed as appropriate, and one may be a main control means (for example, a sensor associated with each winning slot), and the other may be a sub-control means.

[0176] The first, second, third, and fourth aspects of the present invention may be different from one another to the extent that they are distinguishable from one another, and there are no particular limitations on the methods or devices used to realize each aspect in carrying out the present invention. For example, in the above embodiment, the first and second aspects are common in that they use the same device (speaker 33), and are distinguishable by the different sounds they output and whether or not the frame lamp is illuminated, but they may also be distinguishable by notifying using different devices. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the third and fourth modes are common in that they use the same device (main display unit 81), and are distinguishable by the different displays that indicate the mode changes, but they may also be distinguishable by notifying each mode on different devices.

[0177] In the above embodiment, the following correspondence is exemplified regarding the correspondence between the function based on the means corresponding to the first detection means or second detection means of the present invention and the manner in which the execution of the function can be recognized. The sensor of the effect button 37 is a means for executing a button operation effect, and the device that makes it possible to recognize the execution of the button operation effect is the built-in lamp of the effect button 37. The sensors of the up cursor button 38a and the down cursor button 38b are a means for executing volume adjustment, and the device that makes it possible to recognize the execution of volume adjustment is the speaker 33. The sensors of the left cursor button 38c and the right cursor button 38d are a means for executing brightness adjustment, and the device that makes it possible to recognize the execution of brightness adjustment is the main display unit 81 or the frame lamp 35. The sensor of the effect button 37 is a means for executing an effect in which the movable decorative body 22 vibrates, and the device that makes it possible to recognize the execution of the effect is the movable decorative body 22. The sensor of the sub-display unit 82 is a means for executing an effect that involves movement of the sub-display unit 82, and the device that makes it possible to recognize the execution of the effect is the sub-display unit 82. The above correspondence is merely one specific example of an embodiment of the present invention, and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of achieving the object of the present invention. For example, when each winning switch (such as the first start opening sensor 70 or the large winning opening sensor 72) is interpreted as a means for executing the awarding of prize balls, the present invention can be realized by the fact that the awarding of prize balls can be recognized by the payout of the payout unit 48. Alternatively, when the sensors of the left cursor button 38c and the right cursor button 38d are interpreted as a means for executing music selection, the present invention can be realized by the fact that the execution of music selection can be recognized by the audio output of the speaker 33.

[0178] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the first period and second period according to the present invention can be recognized by looking at the screen of the main display unit 81, but the implementation of the present invention is not limited to this, and it may also be in a form in which at least one of the first period and the second period is difficult to recognize (i.e., a form in which inspection work cannot be performed unless the person recognizes that inspection is possible during that period). Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the devices that can be inspected are the same for each of the first and second periods according to the present invention, but the present invention may also be implemented in a form in which at least some of the devices that can be inspected are different between the first and second periods, and in this modified example, the number of devices that can be inspected may be different between the first and second periods.

[0179] In the above embodiment, it has been explained on the assumption that the notification based on detection by the first detection means according to the present invention and the notification based on detection by the second detection means are independent of each other, and that when one detection is received while the other detection is being received, that detection is validated and a notification based on that detection is made, but the implementation of the present invention is not limited to this. One of the detections that was performed first may be given priority, and while an alert is being issued based on that detection, the other detection may be disabled, or even if the other detection is accepted validly, a limit may be placed on not issuing an alert based on that detection.

[0180] The start and end conditions for the inspection-enabled state and play-enabled state described in the above embodiment are one specific example, and can be changed as appropriate as long as the object of the present invention is achieved.

[0181] The present invention described above is not limited to the above description, and includes various modifications and improvements as long as the object of the present invention is achieved.

[0182] <Additional Notes> The present embodiment encompasses the following technical idea. (1) A gaming machine comprising a first detection means and a second detection means, wherein during a first period, the validity of the detection of the first detection means is indicated by a first device entering a first mode, the validity of the detection of the second detection means is indicated by the first device entering a second mode, during a second period that overlaps at least partially with the first period, the validity of the detection of the first detection means is indicated by a second device different from the first device entering a third mode, and the validity of the detection of the second detection means is indicated by the second device entering a fourth mode, a function based on the detection of the first detection means is executable during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function is recognizable by the operation of a device different from at least one of the first device or the second device, and a function based on the detection of the second detection means is executable during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function is recognizable by the operation of a device different from at least one of the first device or the second device. (2) A gaming machine comprising a first detection means and a second detection means, wherein during a first period, the validity of the detection of the first detection means is indicated by a first device entering a first mode, the validity of the detection of the second detection means is indicated by the first device entering a second mode, during a second period different from the first period, the validity of the detection of the first detection means is indicated by a second device different from the first device entering a third mode, and the validity of the detection of the second detection means is indicated by the second device entering a fourth mode, a function based on the detection of the first detection means is executable during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function is recognizable by the operation of a device different from at least one of the first device or the second device, and a function based on the detection of the second detection means is executable during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function is recognizable by the operation of a device different from at least one of the first device or the second device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0183] 10 Gaming machines 15 Outer Frame 17 Middle Frame 20 Front frame 21 Hinge mechanism 22 Movable decorative body 23 Cylinder lock 25 Transparent materials 27 Upper ball tray 29 Lower ball tray 31 Operating handle 32 Upper frame part 33(33a, 33b) Speaker 34a, 34b Left and right side frame parts 35(35a, 35b, 35c) Frame Lamp 36 Ball removal mechanism 37 Production button 38 Cursor Button 38a Up cursor button 38b Down cursor button 38c Left cursor button 38d Right cursor button 38e Middle cursor button 39 Main operation section 39a Ball loan button 39b Return button 40 Power switch 43 RAM clear switch 45 Opening and closing cover 46 Game Ball Tank 47 Tank rail 48 Dispensing Unit 49 Dispensing aisle 50 Game Board 50a Gaming area 51 outer rail 52 Windmill 53 Inner rail 54 Protective material 55 Grand Prize Winner 57 First starting point 59 Second starting point 61 Normal electric device 62 Ordinary electric accessory solenoid Gate 63 65 Special Electric Devices 66 Special electric accessory solenoid 67 General Prize Winners 69 Outlet 70 First starting port sensor 71 Second starting port sensor 72 Large prize entrance sensor 73 General prize entry sensor 74 Gate Sensor 75 Out ball sensor 76 Middle frame door open sensor 77 Front frame door open sensor 80 Performance display device 81 Main display 82 Sub display 82a Upper sub display 82b Left sub-display 82c Right sub display 90 Pattern display device 91 First special pattern display device 92 Second special pattern display device 93 Ordinary pattern display device 94 1st special pattern reserved lamp 95 2nd special pattern reserved lamp 96 Normal pattern hold lamp 100 Main control board 101 CPU 102 ROM 103 RAM 104 I / O ports 105 Random Number Circuit 109 Main control board case 110 Ball entrance determination method 115 Main random number generator 120 Main Hold Control Means 125 Preliminary Judgment Measures 130 Special drawing lottery method 131 Special drawing validity determination means 132 Special stop pattern lottery means 133 Special chart variation pattern derivation means 135 General lottery method 140 Jackpot game control means 145 Pattern display control means 150 Electrical equipment control means 155 Game status control means 160 Main information storage means 165 Main Error Control Measures 170 Main Command Management Method 175 Power restoration processing execution means 176 Return state setting means 179 Means for transitioning to playable state 180 Power cut processing execution means 200 1st sub-control board 201 CPU 202 ROM 203 RAM 204 I / O ports 209 1st sub-control board case 210 Sub-random number generator 220 Normal performance control means 221 Presentation mode control means 222 Production Route Determination Method 223 Sub-hold control means 224 Predictive performance control means 225 Means for determining production content 226 Decorative pattern control means 227 Jackpot performance control means 230 Sub-error Control Measures 240 Lamp control means 245 Movable equipment control means 260 Sub-information storage means 270 Subcommand Management Method 300 Second sub-control board 309 Second sub-control board case 310 Voice control board 311 CPU 312 ROM 313 RAM 314 I / O ports 400 Dispensing control board 409 Dispensing control board case 500 Power Control Board 501 Normal power circuit 502 Backup power circuit 503 Power interruption detection circuit 509 Power supply control board case X First flow path Y Second flow path

Claims

1. a first detection means; A second detection means; Equipped with In a first period, the validity of detection by the first detection means is notified by the first device being in a first state, and the validity of detection by the second detection means is notified by the first device being in a second state, During a second period at least partially overlapping with the first period, the validity of detection by the first detection means is notified by a second device different from the first device being in a third state, and the validity of detection by the second detection means is notified by the second device being in a fourth state, a function based on the detection by the first detection means can be executed during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function can be recognized by an operation of a device different from at least one of the first device and the second device; a function based on the detection by the second detection means can be executed during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function can be recognized by an operation of a device different from at least one of the first device and the second device; A gaming machine characterized by:

2. a first detection means; A second detection means; Equipped with In a first period, the validity of detection by the first detection means is notified by the first device being in a first state, and the validity of detection by the second detection means is notified by the first device being in a second state, In a second period different from the first period, the validity of detection by the first detection means is notified by a second device different from the first device being in a third state, and the validity of detection by the second detection means is notified by the second device being in a fourth state, a function based on the detection by the first detection means can be executed during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function can be recognized by an operation of a device different from at least one of the first device and the second device; a function based on the detection by the second detection means can be executed during at least one of the first period and the second period, and the execution of the function can be recognized by an operation of a device different from at least one of the first device and the second device; A gaming machine characterized by:

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