Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of enhancing interest in a game.SOLUTION: A specific normal random number value in which a prior determination result becomes a normal pattern B or a normal pattern C, and a normal pattern ready-to-win A is reserved in a normal reservation storage area 1 to a normal reservation storage area 4 in a starting point of time of an ending period of four seconds until a special game state is completed, and execution of a specific performance is determined when a normal random number value in which a prior determination result becomes a normal ready-to-win A or a normal ready-to-win B is not reserved in a normal reservation storage area having a smaller ordinal number than a normal reservation storage area in which a specific normal random number value is reserved.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine) that has a gaming area in which a gaming ball (gaming medium) moves and that launches the gaming ball into the gaming area in response to a player's operation. This type of gaming machine, on the condition that it detects the entry of a gaming ball into a start winning hole provided in the gaming area, conducts a special lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won, and if the result of the special lottery is a jackpot, executes a jackpot game in which the gaming ball can enter the big winning hole.

[0003] Furthermore, some gaming machines of this type are configured such that, upon detecting the entry of a gaming ball into a passing gate provided in the gaming area, a normal lottery is conducted to determine whether a normal win has been won, and normal gaming is executed in which the gaming ball is allowed to enter the starting winning port depending on the result of the normal lottery, and when the number of normal lotteries reaches a predetermined number, the gaming state is transitioned (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-171430 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In this type of gaming machine, the game state is changed depending on the result of the normal lottery, so it is desirable to effectively present the normal lottery.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can increase the enjoyment of the game. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) The present invention is a gaming machine having a gaming area in which a gaming medium moves, comprising: a first determination means for acquiring first gaming information when a gaming medium is detected in a first area provided in the gaming area and making a first gaming judgment based on the acquired first gaming information; a preliminary determination means for making a preliminary determination based on the acquired first gaming information before the first gaming judgment is made; a first game execution means for executing a first game in which the gaming medium can enter a second area provided in the gaming area when the result of the first gaming judgment is a first result; a second determination means for acquiring second gaming information when a gaming medium is detected in the second area and making a second gaming judgment based on the acquired second gaming information; and a second game execution means for executing a second game in which the gaming medium can enter a third area provided in the gaming area when the result of the second gaming judgment is a second result. This relates to a gaming machine that is equipped with a gaming state control means that transitions the gaming state from a first gaming state to a second gaming state under predetermined conditions, and a presentation control means that controls presentation, and the presentation control means executes a specific presentation when a first gaming judgment based on first gaming information acquired in the first gaming state is made in the second gaming state and the result of the preliminary judgment based on the first gaming information is the first result.

[0008] According to the present invention, when a first game judgment based on first game information acquired in a first game state is made in a second game state, a specific effect is appropriately executed, thereby increasing the interest in the game.

[0009] (2) The present invention may also include a storage means for storing the results of N preliminary determinations, and the presentation control means may execute a specific presentation when the first result, which is the result of the preliminary determination, is included in the results of M preliminary determinations acquired later among the results of the N preliminary determinations stored in the storage means at a predetermined point in time in the first game state.

[0010] In this way, specific effects can be appropriately executed through simple processing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to increase the enjoyment of the game. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a front view showing the external configuration of a game board according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is an oblique view showing the appearance of a large prize opening of an gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a front view showing the external configuration of a main control display device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a circulation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an exploded view showing the internal structure of the circulation unit according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 is a diagram illustrating the functional blocks of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a lottery table of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a lottery table of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a lottery table of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a lottery table of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 10A to 10C are diagrams showing the transition of game states in a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing images displayed on the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing images displayed on the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 1 is a diagram illustrating the functional blocks of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16]1 is a diagram for explaining a method of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 1 is a diagram for explaining a method of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] 1 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The following describes an embodiment of the present invention. Note that the embodiment described below does not unduly limit the content of the present invention described in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in the embodiment are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[0014] 1. Configuration of the gaming machine 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior configuration of a gaming machine according to this embodiment. The gaming machine according to this embodiment is a controlled gaming machine in which games are played using gaming balls (gaming media) circulating within the gaming machine. The gaming machine includes an outer frame 2 (frame body) that forms the exterior surface of the gaming machine, a gaming board 6 provided inside the gaming machine and forming a gaming area 4 in which the gaming balls move, an inner frame 7 (opening / closing section) that holds the gaming board 6 and various control boards inside the gaming machine, a glass unit 8 that makes the gaming area 4 visible but inaccessible to players, and a front frame 10 formed on the front of the gaming machine to surround the gaming area 4. The front frame 10 forms a front frame opening 11 in an area corresponding to the gaming area 4 so that the player can see the gaming area 4. The glass unit 8 is attached from the rear side to close the front frame opening 11, thereby forming the front of the gaming machine together with the glass unit 8.

[0015] A portion of the front frame 10 is made of a translucent material that transmits light, and inside the portion made of the translucent material are provided a plurality of front frame lamps 12 that output light effects to enhance the game. The front frame 10 also has a speaker 14 that outputs sound effects to enhance the game.

[0016] A performance button 16 (performance operation means) that can be operated by a player is provided in the center of the lower part of the front frame 10, and when the player operates the performance button 16, the performance performed by the gaming machine changes.

[0017] A ball count display unit 17 capable of displaying the number of game balls available for use in the gaming machine is provided on the left rear side of the effect button 16. A dedicated unit (not shown) is provided adjacent to the gaming machine of this embodiment, and when cash is inserted into the dedicated unit or a dedicated card storing one or more balls is inserted and an operation to lend game balls is performed in the dedicated unit, a lending command corresponding to lending game balls to the player is sent from the dedicated unit to the gaming machine, and when the lending command is received by the gaming machine, a value is added to the number of game balls in the ball count display unit 17.

[0018] A counting button 18 for counting the number of balls held is provided on the front side of the ball count display unit 17, and when the counting button 18 is operated while the number of balls held in the ball count display unit 17 is 1 or more, a counting command corresponding to transferring the number of balls held to the dedicated unit is sent from the gaming machine to the dedicated unit, and the number of balls held corresponding to the sent counting command is subtracted from the number of balls held in the ball count display unit 17 and added to the number of balls held on the display unit of the dedicated unit.

[0019] When the number of balls held on the ball number display section 17 is 0 and the number of balls held on the display section of the dedicated unit is 1 or more, if a return operation is performed on the dedicated unit, the number of balls held on the display section of the dedicated unit is added to the number of balls held stored on the dedicated card, and the dedicated card is returned to the player.

[0020] A handle 20 is provided on the right side of the lower part of the front frame 10, and when the player turns the handle 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine while the number of balls held on the ball count display 17 is one or more, a launching device (not shown) provided inside the gaming machine is activated, and gaming balls are launched into the gaming area 4. Each time one gaming ball is launched, one is subtracted from the number of balls held on the ball count display 17. The launching device of this embodiment has a built-in drive device such as a motor that operates the hammer that hits the gaming balls, and can launch a maximum of 99 gaming balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

[0021] The inner frame 7 and front frame 10 are attached to the outer frame 2 so as to be rotatable about a frame rotation axis 26 that runs along the left edge of the inner frame 7, the left edge of the front frame 10, and the left edge of the outer frame 2. When a key is inserted into the cylinder lock 27 located at the upper right of the handle 20 and rotated in one direction, the lock is released, allowing the inner frame 7 and front frame 10 to be opened or closed relative to the outer frame 2.

[0022] In this way, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, gaming balls are not physically loaned or paid out to the player, and the number of balls held is managed as numerical data in the gaming machine, allowing the player to play without directly touching the gaming balls, and the machine does not have upper or lower trays for storing gaming balls, as is the case with conventional gaming machines.

[0023] Fig. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming board 6 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, a circular outer rail 28 is provided on the gaming board 6, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 28 is the gaming area 4 in which gaming balls move. An arc-shaped inner rail 30 is provided on the left end of the gaming area 4 so as to follow the outer rail 28, and the outer rail 28 and inner rail 30 guide gaming balls launched from a launcher (not shown) provided below the gaming board 6 to the gaming area 4.

[0024] A liquid crystal display 31 (effect image display means) that displays effect images and the like to add excitement to the game is provided at the back side of the game board 6, and a game board opening 32 is formed in the center of the game board 6 as an opening that allows the player to view the liquid crystal display 31. A decorative portion 33 is also formed in the center of the game board 6 so as to surround the game board opening 32. The decorative portion 33 has a portion made of a translucent material that transmits light, and inside the portion made of the translucent material are provided a plurality of decorative portion lamps 34 that output effect lights and the like to add excitement to the game.

[0025] A display object 36 (movable object) is provided at the back of the game board 6, in front of the LCD display 31, and the display object 36 is arranged to be able to move (displace) between a stored state in which it is stored below the LCD display 31 as shown in Figure 2, and an appeared state in which it appears to cover part of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, although this is not shown.

[0026] In this embodiment, game balls cannot pass through the game board opening 32 and the front side of the decorative portion 33, and game balls launched into the game area 4 fall in the game area 4 on the left side of the game board opening 32 or the game area 4 on the right side of the game board opening 32. A large number of game nails (not shown) are nailed into the game area 4 so as to intersect with the surface of the game board 6, and the movement direction of the game ball moving through the game area 4 changes randomly.

[0027] A left opening 40 is formed on the left side of the decorative section 33, through which game balls falling in the game area 4 on the left side of the game board opening 32 can pass, and game balls that pass through this left opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided inside the decorative section 33 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the decorative section 33. The top surface of this stage 44 is smoothly curved, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 that allows game balls to fall downward from the stage 44, so that game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth on the stage 44 before falling downward from near the center of the stage 44.

[0028] A first start winning opening 46 is provided below the center of the stage 44, into which gaming balls that have fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44 can enter. This first start winning opening 46 has a built-in sensor (detection means) that detects each gaming ball that enters the first start winning opening 46, and is configured so that when a gaming ball enters, the gaming ball is collected inside the gaming machine. Then, each time a gaming ball that has entered the first start winning opening 46 is detected, 3 is added to the number of balls held in the number of held balls display unit 17, and a special lottery is held to obtain a random number value and determine whether or not a big win or small win has been won.

[0029] In addition, at the bottom of the game area 4 on the left side of the game board opening 32, there are provided a first general winning opening 47-1, a second general winning opening 47-2, and a third general winning opening 47-3, through which game balls enter and are collected inside the game machine.

[0030] In detail, in this embodiment, a sensor that detects each game ball that enters the first general winning opening 47-1 is provided on the path that the game ball passes through, and each time a game ball that enters the first general winning opening 47-1 is detected, 4 is added to the number of balls held in the ball holding number display unit 17, but no special lottery is held.

[0031] On the other hand, the path taken by the gaming ball that entered the second general winning opening 47-2 and the path taken by the gaming ball that entered the third general winning opening 47-3 merge (connect) to form a single path internally, and a sensor is provided on the merged path to detect each gaming ball that enters the second general winning opening 47-2 or the third general winning opening 47-3. Each time a gaming ball that enters the second general winning opening 47-1 or the third general winning opening 47-2 is detected, 3 is added to the number of balls held in the ball number display unit 17, but no special lottery is held.

[0032] A passing gate 48 is provided in the gaming area 4 on the right side of the gaming board opening 32, through which gaming balls pass without being collected inside the gaming machine. This passing gate 48 has a built-in sensor that detects each gaming ball that passes through the passing gate 48, and each time a gaming ball is detected passing through the passing gate 48, a random number value is obtained and a regular lottery is held to determine whether or not a regular win has been won.

[0033] In addition, in the gaming area 4 to the right of the gaming board opening 32, below the passing gate 48, there is provided a second start winning opening 50 through which gaming balls are collected into the gaming machine when they enter. This second start winning opening 50 has a built-in sensor (gaming medium detection means) that detects each gaming ball that enters the second start winning opening 50, and is provided with a normal role device 52 (auxiliary means) that has an auxiliary member that can move between a closed state (a state in which entry is not assisted, a non-assisted state) in which it is difficult for gaming balls to enter the second start winning opening 50, and an open state (a state in which entry is assisted, an auxiliary state) in which it is easy for gaming balls to enter. The normal role device 52 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid that operates the auxiliary member, and when a normal prize is won in the normal lottery, it is controlled to open under predetermined conditions, thereby executing the normal game. Each time a game ball is detected entering the second start winning port 50, one is added to the number of balls held in the ball number display unit 17, and a special lottery is held to obtain a random number value and determine whether or not a big win or small win has been won.

[0034] In addition, the value added to the number of balls held in the ball number display unit 17 each time a game ball enters the first starting winning port 46 and the value added to the number of balls held in the ball number display unit 17 each time a game ball enters the second starting winning port 50 may be the same value or different values.

[0035] In addition, in the gaming area 4 on the right side of the gaming board opening 32, a fourth general winning opening 47-4 is provided below and to the right of the second start winning opening 50. When a gaming ball enters the fourth general winning opening 47-4, the gaming ball is collected inside the gaming machine. The fourth general winning opening 47-4 has a built-in sensor that detects each gaming ball that enters the fourth general winning opening 47-4, and each time a gaming ball enters the fourth general winning opening 47-4, one is added to the number of balls held in the ball holding number display unit 17, but no special lottery is held.

[0036] In addition, a large prize opening 54 (third area) is provided in the game area 4 to the right of the game board opening 32, into which game balls enter and are collected inside the gaming machine. This large prize opening 54 has a built-in sensor that detects each game ball that enters the large prize opening 54, and is provided with a special device 56 having a blocking member that closes the large prize opening 54. The special device 56 is configured to be operable between an open state (entry-enabled state) in which game balls can enter the large prize opening 54 and a closed state (entry-disabled state) in which game balls cannot enter. The special device 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid that operates the blocking member, and is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in a special game state that starts when a large prize or small prize is won in a special lottery, thereby executing a large prize game or a small prize game (special game). Every time a gaming ball that has entered the big winning opening 54 is detected, 10 is added to the number of balls held in the ball number display section 17.

[0037] 3A and 3B are perspective views showing the large prize opening 54 with the special device 56 in an open state. As shown in FIG. 3A, the large prize opening 54 of this embodiment is composed of a specific area 64 located on the left side of the large prize opening 54 and through which game balls can enter, and a normal area 66 located on the right side of the large prize opening 54 and through which game balls can enter. The specific area 64 incorporates a sensor that detects the entry of a game ball, and is provided with a specific device 68 equipped with a blocking member that closes the specific area 64. The specific device 68 is configured to be operable between an open state (entry-enabled state) in which game balls can enter the specific area 64 as shown in FIG. 3A, and a closed state (entry-disabled state) in which game balls cannot enter the specific area 64 as shown in FIG. 3B. The specific device 68 incorporates a drive device such as a solenoid that operates the blocking member, and is controlled to be in an open state under predetermined conditions during a small prize game. When the special device 56 is in the open state and the gaming ball enters the big prize opening 54, if the specific device 68 is in the open state, the gaming ball can enter the specific area 64, and if the specific device 68 is not in the open state, the gaming ball cannot enter the specific area 64.

[0038] The normal area 66 also has a built-in sensor that detects the entry of a game ball, but no blocking member is provided to block the normal area 66, so that the game ball can enter when the special device 56 is in the open state.

[0039] Therefore, when the special role device 56 is in the open state and the gaming ball enters the big prize opening 54, if the specific role device 68 is in the open state, the gaming ball enters the specific area 64 or the normal area 66, and if the specific role device 68 is in the closed state, the gaming ball does not enter the specific area 64 but enters the normal area 66. When the gaming ball enters the specific area 64 or the normal area 66, the gaming ball is discharged from the big prize opening 54 and is configured to be collected inside the gaming machine.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2, an outlet 62 is provided at the bottom of the game area 4, into which game balls that have fallen through the game area 4 without entering any of the winning holes enter.

[0041] The game ball launching device is configured so that the launch force of the game ball can be changed by adjusting the amount of rotation of the handle 20 shown in Figure 1. When the amount of rotation of the handle 20 is small, the game ball is launched so that it falls through the game area 4 on the left side of the game board opening 32, and when the amount of rotation of the handle 20 is large, the game ball is launched so that it falls through the game area 4 on the right side of the game board opening 32.

[0042] Therefore, the player adjusts the amount of rotation of the handle 20 depending on the game situation, and performs a so-called left hit, which launches the game ball so that it falls down the left game area 4, passes through the left opening 40, the passage 42 and the stage 44 and enters the first starting winning opening 46, or enters the first general winning opening 47-1, the second general winning opening 47-2 or the third general winning opening 47-3, or performs a so-called right hit, which launches the game ball so that it falls down the right game area 4 and passes through the passing gate 48, or enters the second starting winning opening 50, or enters the large winning opening 54 or enters the fourth general winning opening 47-4.

[0043] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when a gaming ball falls through the left-hand gaming area 4, it does not pass through the passing gate 48 and does not enter the fourth general winning opening 47-4, the second starting winning opening 50, or the large winning opening 54; and when a gaming ball falls through the right-hand gaming area 4, it does not enter the first starting winning opening 46, the first general winning opening 47-1, the second general winning opening 47-2, or the third general winning opening 47-3.

[0044] Furthermore, game balls that are launched from the launching device but return without reaching the game area 4 due to a weak launch force enter a foul passage (not shown) provided below the game board 6 and are collected inside the game machine. A sensor is provided in the foul passage to detect each game ball that passes through the foul passage, and each time a game ball is detected passing through the foul passage, one is added to the number of balls held in the ball number display unit 17.

[0045] In addition, at the bottom right of the game board 6, outside the game area 4, there is a main control display unit 70 which displays various information about the game machine, such as the results of the regular lottery, the results of the special lottery, and the game status, by turning on and off multiple lamps, etc.

[0046] 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the main control display unit 70. As shown in FIG. 4, the main control display unit 70 is provided with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal hold display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special hold display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 80, a second special hold display unit 82, and a game status display unit 84.

[0047] The normal symbol display unit 72 is composed of two lamps, and when a normal lottery is held, the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner by flashing the two lamps, and the normal symbol is displayed in a static manner by turning on or off the two lamps, thereby displaying the result of the normal lottery.

[0048] The normal hold display unit 74 is composed of two lamps, and displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of normal random numbers that are on hold when the normal random number value is held on hold because a normal lottery cannot be performed even if the normal random number value, which is a random number value for a normal lottery, is obtained, such as when the normal pattern is already being displayed in a changing or stopped state when the game ball passes through the passing gate 48, and displays a normal hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0049] The first special pattern display unit 76 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a special lottery is held by a game ball entering the first starting winning port 46, the 7-segment display is made to flash to display the first special pattern in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display is made to light up in one of a plurality of modes to display the first special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the special lottery.

[0050] The first special hold display unit 78 is composed of two lamps, and displays a first special hold number corresponding to the number of reserved first special random number values ​​when the special random number value, which is a random number value for a special lottery, is reserved as the first special random number value because a special lottery cannot be held even if the special random number value is obtained, such as when the first special pattern is already being displayed in a changing or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the first starting winning port 46, and displays 0 to 4 first special hold numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0051] The second special pattern display unit 80 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a special lottery is held by a game ball entering the second starting winning port 50, the 7-segment display is made to flash to display a changing second special pattern, and the 7-segment display is made to light up in one of a plurality of modes to display a static display of the second special pattern, thereby displaying the result of the special lottery.

[0052] The second special reserve display unit 82 is composed of two lamps, and displays a second special reserve number corresponding to the number of reserved second special random number values ​​when the special random number value is reserved as a second special random number value because a special lottery cannot be held even if the special random number value is obtained, such as when the second special pattern is already being displayed in a changing or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the second starting winning port 50, and displays a second special reserve number of 0 to 1 by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0053] The game status display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and displays the type of game status that is currently set by a combination of turning on, turning off, or flashing the six lamps. In this embodiment, five types of game statuses can be set: a specific status that is the initial status after the gaming machine is powered on, a slight time-saving status that is the basic game status, a special game status that starts when a jackpot is won in a special lottery, and a first time-saving status, a second time-saving status, and a third time-saving status that shorten the fluctuation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol to increase the chance of executing the special lottery. The game status that is set is displayed by a combination of turning on, turning off, or flashing the six lamps.

[0054] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a circulation unit 100 that circulates game balls inside the gaming machine. The circulation unit 100 is provided below the game board 6 in the inner frame 7 shown in Fig. 1, and a first passage 102 (circulation path) is provided at the top of the circulation unit 100, through which game balls that have entered the first start winning opening 46, the first general winning opening 47-1, the second general winning opening 47-2, the third general winning opening 47-3, the fourth general winning opening 47-4, the second start winning opening 50, the big winning opening 54, and the outlet opening 62, i.e., all game balls collected from the game area 4, arrive.

[0055] In this embodiment, it is recommended that 45 game balls be circulated within the circulation unit 100, and if there are no game balls in the circulation unit 100, an administrator of the gaming machine or the like can place 45 game balls into the first passage 102, thereby allowing game balls to be placed in the circulation unit 100. Therefore, the first passage 102 is formed to be wider and deeper than the other passages provided in the circulation unit 100 so that it can receive a large number of game balls at the same time.

[0056] A collection port 104 is provided at the left end of the bottom of the first passage 102, and is sized to allow the game balls in the first passage 102 to pass through one by one, and the bottom of the first passage 102 is formed so as to slope downward toward the collection port 104. A sensor is provided in the collection port 104 to detect the game balls passing through the collection port 104 one by one.

[0057] Fig. 6 is an exploded view showing the internal structure of the circulation unit 100. As shown in Fig. 6, inside the circulation unit 100, a second passage 106 (circulation path) is provided through which game balls that have entered the recovery port 104 from the first passage 102 can pass in a single file, and the second passage 106 extends downward while snaking inside the circulation unit 100.

[0058] In this embodiment, when there are no game balls in the circulation unit 100 and the gaming machine manager or the like places 45 game balls into the first passage 102, the 45 game balls are received into the second passage 106 via the recovery port 104.

[0059] In the second passage 106, a sensor is provided in the vicinity of the 43rd game ball when 43 game balls are staying in the second passage 106, to detect that the number of game balls staying in the second passage 106 is less than 43. In addition, in the vicinity of the 47th game ball when 47 game balls are staying in the second passage 106, a sensor is provided in the vicinity of the 47th game ball, to detect that the number of game balls staying in the second passage 106 is 47 or more.

[0060] A foul passage (not shown) is connected to the middle of the second passage 106, and game balls that have passed through the foul passage merge with game balls passing through the second passage 106.

[0061] A lifting unit 108 is provided to the left of the second passage 106, which sends gaming balls that have descended the second passage 106 upward. The lifting unit 108 includes a lifting screw 110 with a spirally protruding portion, a drive device such as a motor that rotates the lifting screw 110, and a lifting passage 112 (circulation path) on the left side of the lifting screw 110, through which gaming balls can pass in a single file in the vertical direction. The lower end of the lifting passage 112 is connected to the lower end of the second passage 106, and gaming balls are received one by one from the lower end of the second passage 106 to the lower end of the lifting passage 112. The lifting screw 110 is provided so that its spirally protruding portion protrudes into the lifting passage 112, and gaming balls received at the lower end of the lifting passage 112 are pushed up by the spirally protruding portion of the lifting screw 110, which is rotated by the motor, and sent to the upper end of the lifting passage 112.

[0062] Although not shown, a polishing member capable of polishing game balls passing through the conveying passage 112 is provided to the left of the conveying passage 112, and the polishing member polishes the game balls by coming into contact with the game balls passing through the conveying passage 112.

[0063] The upper end of the conveying passage 112 is connected to the upper end of a third passage 114 (circulation path) through which game balls can pass in a single file, and the third passage 114 extends downward toward a rectifier 116 in the right central part of the circulation unit 100, which controls the supply of game balls to the launching device.

[0064] The rectifier 116 is equipped with a blocking member 118 that blocks the passage of game balls received from the lower end of the third passage 114, and a drive device such as a solenoid that operates the blocking member 118, and the blocking member 118 operates between a blocking state in which it blocks the passage of game balls, and a non-blocking state in which it allows game balls to pass. The rectifier 116 is capable of accommodating three game balls when the blocking member 118 is in the blocking state, and a sensor that detects the third game ball of the three game balls that are accommodating the rectifier 116 is provided at the entrance of the rectifier 116, and a sensor that detects each game ball that passes through the exit of the rectifier 116 is provided at the exit of the rectifier 116.

[0065] A launching device (not shown) is provided below the rear side of the rectifier 116, and when the handle 20 shown in Fig. 1 is rotated, the solenoid of the rectifier 116 is activated, the blocking member 118 is placed in an unblocked state, and one gaming ball is sent from the rectifier 116 to the launching device. Then, the blocking member 118 is placed in a blocked state, and the motor of the launching device is activated to rotate the hammer of the launching device, thereby launching the one gaming ball sent to the launching device.

[0066] A discharge passage 120 for discharging game balls to the outside is connected to the bottom of the second passage 106 so as to branch off from the second passage 106. At the branch point of the second passage 106 and the discharge passage 120, a switching member (not shown) is provided that operates between a non-discharge state in which game balls passing through the second passage 106 are guided directly to the bottom end of the second passage 106, and a discharge state in which they are guided to the discharge passage 120.

[0067] The switching member is connected to a ball ejection lever 122 provided on the front surface of the lower part of the second passage 106, and the ball ejection lever 122 operates between a closed state in which the switching member is in a non-ejection state and an open state in which the switching member is in a ejection state. Therefore, the switching member can be switched between the non-ejection state and the ejection state by an administrator of the gaming machine operating the ball ejection lever 122. The gaming balls guided into the ejection passage 120 are ejected to the outside through an ejection port 124 provided on the lower right of the ball ejection lever 122.

[0068] When the ball removal lever 122 is in the open state, game balls staying upstream of the branch point of the second passage 106 and the discharge passage 120 pass through the discharge passage 120 and are discharged from the discharge port 124, but game balls staying downstream of the branch point of the second passage 106 and the discharge passage 120 between the rectifier 116 will not be able to reach the discharge passage 120 and will remain. Therefore, game balls staying downstream of the branch point of the second passage 106 and the discharge passage 120 between the rectifier 116 are launched into the game area 4 by the launching device, passed through the first passage 102, the second passage 106, and the discharge passage 120, and discharged from the discharge port 124, thereby enabling all game balls in the circulation unit 100 to be discharged.

[0069] 2. Functional Blocks 7 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by control boards including a main control board 500, a sub-control board 600, and a frame control board 700. The functions of each control board, such as the main control board 500, the sub-control board 600, and the frame control board 700, are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), ROMs (an example of information storage media), or RAMs, or by software consisting of a given program pre-stored in ROMs, etc.

[0070] The main control board 500 performs various calculations to progress the game based on information from input means such as the passing gate sensor 502, the first start winning port sensor 504, the second start winning port sensor 506, the large winning port sensor 508, the specific area sensor 510, the normal area sensor 512, the first general winning port sensor 514, the second general winning port sensor 516, and the third general winning port sensor 518, as well as from the frame control board 700, and based on the calculation results, controls output means such as the main control display device 520, the normal role drive device 522, the special role drive device 524, and the specific role drive device 526, and transmits information to the sub-control board 600 and the frame control board 700, etc.

[0071] The passing gate sensor 502 is provided at the passing gate 48 and outputs a detection signal every time a gaming ball passes through the passing gate 48 .

[0072] The first start winning hole sensor 504 is provided in the first start winning hole 46, and outputs a detection signal every time a gaming ball enters the first start winning hole 46.

[0073] The second start winning hole sensor 506 is provided in the second start winning hole 50 and outputs a detection signal every time a gaming ball enters the second start winning hole 50 .

[0074] The big prize opening sensor 508 is provided in the big prize opening 54, and outputs a detection signal every time one gaming ball enters the big prize opening 54.

[0075] The specific area sensor 510 is provided in the specific area 64, and outputs a detection signal every time a gaming ball enters the specific area 64.

[0076] The normal area sensor 512 is provided in the normal area 66, and outputs a detection signal every time one gaming ball enters the normal area 66.

[0077] The first general winning opening sensor 514 is provided in the first general winning opening 47-1, and outputs a detection signal every time a gaming ball enters the first general winning opening 47-1.

[0078] The second general winning opening sensor 516 is provided on the path through which a gaming ball that has entered the second general winning opening 47-2 or the third general winning opening 47-3 passes, and outputs a detection signal each time a gaming ball enters the second general winning opening 47-2 or the third general winning opening 47-3.

[0079] The third general winning opening sensor 518 is provided in the fourth general winning opening 47-4, and outputs a detection signal every time one gaming ball enters the fourth general winning opening 47-4.

[0080] The main control display device 520 is realized by an LED board or the like, and in the main control display unit 70, it displays normal symbols in a variable manner according to the result of a normal lottery and then displays them as still symbols, or it displays special symbols in a variable manner according to the result of a special lottery and then displays them as still symbols, and it displays the game status.

[0081] The normal accessory drive device 522 is realized by a solenoid or the like provided on the normal accessory 52, and operates the auxiliary member between a closed state and an open state.

[0082] The special feature drive device 524 is realized by a solenoid or the like provided in the special feature 56, and operates the blocking member between the closed state and the open state.

[0083] The specific feature driving device 526 is realized by a solenoid or the like provided on the specific feature 68, and operates the blocking member between the closed state and the open state.

[0084] The main control board 500 also functions as a random number generating means 540, a normal lottery means 542, a normal display control means 543, a normal game execution means 544, a special lottery means 546, a special display control means 548, a small win game execution means 550, a big win game execution means 552, a game status control means 554, a main communication control means 556, and a main control memory 570.

[0085] The random number generating means 540 is a means for generating random numbers for the lottery, and is realized by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers, or a program that generates software random numbers. Software random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to circulate within a predetermined count range). In this embodiment, the term "random number" includes not only values ​​that are generated randomly in the mathematical sense, but also values ​​that are generated regularly but can actually function as random numbers because the timing of their acquisition is irregular.

[0086] The normal lottery means 542 (determination means) acquires a normal random number value (lottery information) from the random number generating means 540 based on the detection signal from the passing gate sensor 502, stores it in the normal random number storage means of the main control memory 570, and performs a normal lottery (game determination) to determine (determine) whether or not the normal win is a win based on the normal random number value read from the normal random number storage means.

[0087] In detail, the normal random number storage means has four normal reserve memory areas, normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired normal random number values, and one normal reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the normal random number value read from normal reserve memory area 1 and used in the normal lottery until the normal pattern changing display and stopping display have ended.

[0088] When a normal random number value is not reserved in any of normal reserve memory areas 1 to 4, when a normal random number value is acquired based on the input of a detection signal from the passing gate sensor 502, the acquired normal random number value is stored in normal reserve memory area 1.

[0089] Then, when the normal random number value is stored in the normal reserve memory area 1, if the normal symbol is not in a variable display or a stationary display, i.e., if the normal random number value is not reserved in the normal reserve memory area and the normal game is not being played, the normal random number value is read from the normal reserve memory area 1 and a normal lottery is performed, and the normal random number value obtained by the normal lottery is reserved in the normal reserve memory area. On the other hand, when the normal random number value is stored in the normal reserve memory area 1, if the normal symbol is in a variable display or a stationary display, i.e., if the normal random number value is reserved in the normal reserve memory area or the normal game is being played, the normal random number value is reserved in the normal reserve memory area 1.

[0090] When a detection signal is input from passing gate sensor 502 while a normal random number value is reserved in normal reserve memory area 1, a new normal random number value is acquired on the condition that the number of normal random number values ​​reserved in normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 4 is less than four, that is, on the condition that the normal reserve number is less than four. The acquired normal random number value is stored as a normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among normal reserve memory areas 1 to 4 in which no normal random number value is reserved. On the other hand, when the normal reserve number is four, even if a detection signal is input from passing gate sensor 502, a new normal random number value is not acquired and a new normal random number value is not stored in the normal random number storage means.

[0091] When the variable display and stop display of the normal symbols are finished, the normal random number value reserved in the normal reserve memory area is erased. If a normal random number value is stored in the normal reserve memory area 1, the normal random number value is read from the normal reserve memory area 1 and a normal lottery is performed, provided that a normal game is not being played, and the normal random number value used in the normal lottery is reserved in the normal reserve memory area.

[0092] When a normal random number value is read from normal reserve memory area 1, if normal random number values ​​are reserved in normal reserve memory area 2 or later, the reserved normal random number value is moved to the normal reserve memory area with the next smaller ordinal number from the original normal reserve memory area. For example, when a normal random number value is read from normal reserve memory area 1, if normal random number values ​​are reserved in normal reserve memory area 2 to normal reserve memory area 4, the normal random number values ​​stored in normal reserve memory area 2 to normal reserve memory area 4, respectively, are moved to normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 3, respectively.

[0093] In this way, in the normal random number storage means, normal random number values ​​for which a normal lottery has been performed are stored in the normal storage memory area up to a maximum of one, and normal random number values ​​for which a normal lottery has not been performed are stored in normal storage memory area 1 to normal storage memory area 4 up to a maximum of four.

[0094] The regular lottery will be described in detail below. The regular lottery means 542 acquires multiple types of random number values ​​such as a regular win determination random number value, a regular symbol determination random number value, and a regular variation determination random number value based on the detection signal input from the passage gate sensor 502, and stores these multiple types of random number values ​​in the regular random number storage means as regular random number values ​​for one regular lottery. Then, the regular lottery means 542 performs a regular win determination process, a regular symbol determination process, a regular variation determination process, etc. as a regular lottery.

[0095] The normal winning determination process is a process for determining whether or not a normal winning has been won. In the normal winning determination process, the normal lottery means 542 performs a random number determination process using a normal lottery table stored in the lottery table storage means of the main control memory 570.

[0096] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means stores the regular lottery table shown in Figure 8(A), and in the regular lottery table, a correspondence between a regular win and 100 random number values ​​from 0 to 99 is set so that a regular win has a probability of 1 / 1.

[0097] The normal lottery means 542 determines whether a normal win has been won by referring to the normal lottery table regardless of the game status and determining whether the normal win determination random number value included in the normal random number value read out for one time corresponds to a normal win, and if a normal win has been won, sets the normal win flag to ON in the flag storage means of the main control memory 570.

[0098] The normal symbol determination process is a process for determining whether the symbol type of the normal winning symbol will be normal symbol A, normal symbol B, or normal symbol C when a normal winning symbol is won in the normal winning determination process. In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means stores the normal symbol lottery table shown in Fig. 8(B), and the normal symbol lottery table has a correspondence relationship between the normal symbol A, the normal symbol B, and the normal symbol C and 65536 random number values ​​from 0 to 65535 set so that the normal symbol A wins with a probability of about 99 / 100, the normal symbol B wins with a probability of about 0.7 / 100, and the normal symbol C wins with a probability of about 0.3 / 100.

[0099] The normal lottery means 542 refers to the normal symbol lottery table regardless of the game state, and determines which of the multiple types of normal winning symbols the single normal symbol determination random number value included in the single read normal random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of normal winning symbols has been won, and sets a winning flag corresponding to the winning normal symbol to ON state in the flag storage means.

[0100] The normal variation determination process is a process for determining which of a plurality of variation types the normal pattern variation type should be, depending on the game state, the result of the normal win determination process, and the result of the normal pattern determination process. In the normal variation determination process, the normal lottery means 542 first determines which of a plurality of normal variation lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means should be used to perform the random number judgment process, depending on the game state, the result of the normal win determination process, and the result of the normal pattern determination process.

[0101] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means stores normal variation lottery tables A to H shown in Figures 8(C) to 8(J). In each normal variation lottery table, for each of the 100 random number values ​​from 0 to 99, the normal pattern variation time is set to 600 seconds. The normal pattern special variation A is set to 601 seconds. The normal pattern special variation B is set to 601 seconds. The normal pattern special variation C is set to 0.1 seconds. The normal pattern reach A is set to 20 seconds. The normal pattern reach B is set to 10 seconds. The normal pattern miss A is set to 2 seconds. The normal pattern miss B is set to 1 second. The normal pattern miss C is set to 0.5 seconds.

[0102] The normal lottery means 542 selects the normal variable lottery table A shown in FIG. 8(C) when any of the normal symbols A to C is selected in the specific state, selects the normal variable lottery table B shown in FIG. 8(D) when any of the normal symbols A to C is selected in the slight time-saving state, selects the normal variable lottery table C shown in FIG. 8(E) when any of the normal symbols A to C is selected in the special game state, and selects the normal variable lottery table C shown in FIG. 8(F) when any of the normal symbols A to C is selected in the first time-saving state. In the second time-shortened state, if normal pattern A or normal pattern B is won, normal variation lottery table E shown in Figure 8(G) is selected, in the second time-shortened state, if normal pattern C is won, normal variation lottery table F shown in Figure 8(H) is selected, in the third time-shortened state, if normal pattern A is won, normal variation lottery table G shown in Figure 8(I) is selected, and in the third time-shortened state, if normal pattern B or normal pattern C is won, normal variation lottery table H shown in Figure 8(J) is selected.

[0103] The normal lottery means 542 then refers to the selected normal variation lottery table and determines which of the multiple variation types the normal variation determination random number value included in the read normal random number value for one time corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple variation types has won.

[0104] In addition, when storing a normal random number value in the normal random number storage means, the normal lottery means 542 also performs pre-determination processing (game lottery, game determination) such as normal win determination processing, normal pattern determination processing, and normal variation determination processing (pre-determination means).

[0105] In detail, when the normal lottery means 542 (pre-judgment means) acquires a normal random number value from the random number generating means 540 based on the detection signal input from the passing gate sensor 502, it performs pre-judgment processing such as normal win determination processing, normal pattern determination processing, and normal variation determination processing on the normal random number value depending on the game status and reserved number at that time before storing it in the normal random number storage means.

[0106] Then, the normal lottery means 542 stores the pre-determination results, including the results of the normal winning determination process, the normal pattern determination process, and the normal variation determination process, which are pre-determination processes, in the normal random number storage means, in correspondence with the normal random number value that was the subject of the pre-determination process.

[0107] The normal display control means 543 is a means for controlling the main control display device 520 based on the result of the normal lottery, and performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing.

[0108] In the normal pattern display control process, the normal display control means 543 displays the normal pattern in a variable manner by flashing two lamps on the normal pattern display unit 72 for a variable time according to the type of normal pattern variation determined in the normal variation determination process, and displays the normal pattern in a static manner by turning on or off the two lamps on the normal pattern display unit 72 depending on whether the normal win flag has been set to the ON state in the normal win determination process, and displays the result of the normal lottery on the normal pattern display unit 72.

[0109] In detail, in this embodiment, if the variation type is normal special variation A, the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 600 seconds, if the variation type is normal special variation B, the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 601 seconds, if the variation type is normal special variation C, the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 0.1 seconds, if the variation type is normal reach A, the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 20 seconds, if the variation type is normal reach B, the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 10 seconds, if the variation type is normal miss A, the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 2 seconds, if the variation type is normal miss B, the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 1 second, and if the variation type is normal miss C, the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 0.5 seconds.

[0110] Therefore, in this embodiment, if the game state at the time the normal lottery is performed is a specific state or a slight time-saving state, the normal pattern change type is determined to be normal special change A or normal special change B, and the normal pattern change time is set to 600 seconds or 601 seconds, and if the game state at the time the normal lottery is performed is a special game state, second time-saving state, or third time-saving state, the normal pattern change type is determined to be normal miss A, normal miss B, or normal miss C, and the normal pattern change time is often set to 0.5 to 2 seconds, so the opportunity to perform the normal lottery occurs more frequently when the game state is a special game state, second time-saving state, or third time-saving state.

[0111] In the normal hold display control processing, the normal display control means 543 displays the number of holds from 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74, depending on the number of normal random number values ​​stored in the normal random number storage means.

[0112] The normal game execution means 544 executes one of normal games A to B depending on the game state, the result of the normal win determination process, and the result of the normal symbol determination process. In detail, when the game state is a specific state, a special game state, or a slight time-shortening state, the normal game execution means 544 refers to the normal accessory control table A shown in FIG. 9(A), and executes normal game A regardless of whether the normal symbol A, the normal symbol B, or the normal symbol C is won in the normal lottery, and when the game state is a first time-shortening state, the normal accessory control table B shown in FIG. 9(B), and executes normal game B regardless of whether the normal symbol A, the normal symbol B, or the normal symbol C is won in the normal lottery. When the game state is the second time-shortened state, the normal device control table C shown in Figure 9(C) is referenced, and when normal pattern A or normal pattern B is won in the normal lottery, normal game A is executed, and when normal pattern C is won, normal game B is executed; when the game state is the third time-shortened state, the normal device control table D shown in Figure 9(D) is referenced, and when normal pattern A is won in the normal lottery, normal game A is executed, and when normal pattern B or normal pattern C is won, normal game B is executed.

[0113] In normal game A, the opening time of the normal device 52 is set to 0.1 seconds, and when the normal symbol is displayed stopped in a manner indicating a normal win, the normal device drive device 522 is controlled to be in an open state until 0.1 seconds have elapsed, and then to return to a closed state.

[0114] In normal game B, the opening time of the normal device 52 is set to 6 seconds, and when the normal symbol is displayed stopped in a manner indicating a normal win, the normal device drive device 522 is controlled to keep the normal device 52 in the open state until 2 seconds have elapsed, and then return to the closed state.

[0115] Therefore, in normal game A, the normal device 52 operates so as to hardly increase the ease with which the game ball can enter the second start winning hole 50, whereas in normal game B, the normal device 52 operates so as to increase the ease with which the game ball can enter the second start winning hole 50.

[0116] The special lottery means 546 (determination means) acquires a special random number value (lottery information) from the random number generating means 540 based on a detection signal from the first start winning port sensor 504, and stores the value as a first special random number value (first lottery information) in the special random number storage means of the main control memory 570. The special lottery means 546 also acquires a special random number value (lottery information) from the random number generating means 540 based on a detection signal input from the second start winning port sensor 506, which detects gaming balls entering the second start winning port 50 one by one, and stores the value as a second special random number value (second lottery information) in the special random number storage means. The special lottery means 546 then performs a special lottery (game determination) to determine (determine) whether a big win or a small win has been won, etc., using the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the special random number storage means.

[0117] In detail, the special random number storage means has four first special reserve memory areas, first special reserve memory area 1 to first special reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired first special random number values, one first special reserve memory area as a memory area for storing the first special random number value read from first special reserve memory area 1 and used in the special lottery until the variable display and stop display of the first special pattern are completed, one second special reserve memory area as a memory area for storing the acquired second special random number values, and one second special reserve memory area as a memory area for storing the second special random number value read from the second special reserve memory area and used in the special lottery until the variable display and stop display of the second special pattern are completed.

[0118] Then, when the first special random number value is not reserved in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, when a special random number value is acquired based on the input of a detection signal from the first start winning port sensor 504, the acquired special random number value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1 as the first special random number value.

[0119] Then, at the time when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, if the first special pattern is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the first special random number value is not reserved in the first special reservation memory area, and the game state is not a special game state, or a small win game is not being executed, the first special random number value is read from the first special reservation memory area 1, a special lottery is held, and the first special random number value used in the special lottery is reserved in the first special reservation memory area. On the other hand, at the time when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, if the first special pattern is being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the first special random number value is reserved in the first special reservation memory area, or the game state is a special game state, or a small win game is being executed, the first special random number value is reserved in the first special reservation memory area 1.

[0120] When a detection signal is input from the first start winning port sensor 504 while a first special random number value is reserved in the first special reservation memory area 1, a new special random number value is acquired on the condition that the number of first special random number values ​​reserved in the first special reservation memory areas 1 to 4 is less than four, that is, on the condition that the first special reservation number is less than four. The acquired special random number value is stored as the first special random number value in the first special reservation memory area with the smallest ordinal number, which is a reservation memory area among the first special reservation memory areas 1 to 4 in which the first special random number value is not reserved. On the other hand, when the first special reservation number is four, even if a detection signal is input from the first start winning port sensor 504, a new special random number value is not acquired, and a new first special random number value is not stored in the special random number storage means.

[0121] When the variable display and stop display of the first special symbol are completed, the first special random number value reserved in the first special reservation memory area is erased. Then, if the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, the first special random number value is read from the first special reservation memory area 1 and a special lottery is performed, provided that the game state is not a special game state or a small win game is not being executed, and the first special random number value used in the special lottery is reserved in the first special reservation memory area.

[0122] When a first special random number value is read from the first special reservation memory area 1, if a first special random number value is reserved in the first special reservation memory area 2 or later, the reserved first special random number value is moved to a first special reservation memory area having an ordinal number one smaller than the original first special reservation memory area. For example, when a first special random number value is read from the first special reservation memory area 1, if a first special random number value is reserved in each of the first special reservation memory area 2 to the first special reservation memory area 4, the first special random number value stored in each of the first special reservation memory area 2 to the first special reservation memory area 4 is moved to each of the first special reservation memory area 1 to the first special reservation memory area 3.

[0123] Also, when the second special random number value is not reserved in the second special reservation memory area, when a special random number value is acquired based on the input of a detection signal from the second start winning port sensor 506, the acquired special random number value is stored in the second special reservation memory area as the second special random number value.

[0124] Then, at the time the second special random number value is stored in the second special reservation memory area, if the second special pattern is not being displayed variably or stopped, i.e., if the second special random number value is not reserved in the second special reservation memory area and the game state is not a special game state or a small win game is not being executed, the second special random number value is read from the second special reservation memory area and a special lottery is held, and the second special random number value used in the special lottery is reserved in the second special reservation memory area. On the other hand, at the time the second special random number value is stored in the second special reservation memory area, if the second special pattern is being displayed variably or stopped, i.e., if the second special random number value is reserved in the second special reservation memory area, the game state is a special game state, or a small win game is being executed, the second special random number value is reserved in the second special reservation memory area.

[0125] If a detection signal is input from the second start winning port sensor 506 while a second special random number value is reserved in the second special reservation memory area, that is, if the second special reservation number is one, even if a detection signal is input from the second start winning port sensor 506, no new special random number value is obtained and no new second special random number value is stored in the special random number memory means.

[0126] When the variable display and stop display of the second special symbol are completed, the second special random number value reserved in the second special reservation memory area is erased. Then, if the second special random number value is stored in the second special reservation memory area, the second special random number value is read from the second special reservation memory area and a special lottery is held, provided that the game state is not a special game state or a small win game is not being executed, and the second special random number value used in the special lottery is reserved in the second special reservation memory area.

[0127] In this embodiment, the first special random number value for which a special lottery has been performed is reserved in the first special reservation memory area up to one, the first special random number value for which a special lottery has not been performed is reserved in the first special reservation memory area 1 to the first special reservation memory area 4 up to four, the second special random number value for which a special lottery has been performed is reserved in the second special reservation memory area up to one, and the second special random number value for which a special lottery has not been performed is reserved in the second special reservation memory area up to one. The first special random number value and the second special random number value are then consumed in parallel. Note that the second special random number value may be consumed with priority over the first special random number value, or the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be consumed in the order stored in the special random number storage means, regardless of whether it is the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0128] The special lottery will be described in detail below. The special lottery means 546 acquires multiple types of random number values, such as a special win determination random number value, a special symbol determination random number value, and a special variation determination random number value, based on the detection signal input from the first start winning slot sensor 504 or the second start winning slot sensor 506, and stores these multiple types of random number values ​​in the special random number storage means as the first special random number value or the second special random number value for one special lottery. The special lottery means 230 then performs a special win determination process, a special symbol determination process, a special variation determination process, and the like as the special lottery.

[0129] The special win determination process is a process for determining whether a big win, a time-saving win, or a small win has been won. In the special win determination process, the special lottery means 546 first selects which of the multiple types of big win lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means of the main control memory 570 to use for the random number determination process, depending on whether the special win determination random number value for one time included in the read special random number value for one time was stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0130] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means stores a jackpot lottery table A shown in FIG. 10(A) and a jackpot lottery table B shown in FIG. 10(B).

[0131] In detail, the jackpot lottery table A shown in Figure 10(A) is selected when the special jackpot determination random number value read out for one time is stored as the first special random number value, and the correspondence between the jackpot or time-saving jackpot and the random number value between 0 and 65535 is set so that the probability of winning a jackpot is approximately 1 / 220 and the probability of winning a time-saving jackpot is approximately 219 / 220.

[0132] In addition, the jackpot lottery table B shown in Figure 10(B) is selected when the special jackpot determination random number value read out for one time is stored as the second special random number value, and the correspondence between a jackpot or small jackpot and a random number value between 0 and 65535 is set so that there is a probability of about 1 / 220 of winning a jackpot and a probability of about 219 / 220 of winning a small jackpot.

[0133] If the readout random number value for determining a special win for one time is stored as a first special random number value, the special lottery means 546 selects the jackpot lottery table A regardless of the game state, and if the readout random number value for determining a special win for one time is stored as a second special random number value, the special lottery means 546 selects the jackpot lottery table B regardless of the game state.

[0134] Then, the special lottery means 546 refers to the selected jackpot lottery table and determines whether the read special win determination random number value corresponds to a jackpot, a time-saving win, or a small win, thereby determining whether a jackpot, a time-saving win, or a small win has been won. Note that at least one of the jackpot lottery table A and the jackpot lottery table B may include a miss.

[0135] The special lottery means 546 sets the winning flag for the big win to ON state in the flag storage means when a big win is won, sets the winning flag for the time-saving win to ON state in the flag storage means when a time-saving win is won, and sets the winning flag for the small win to ON state in the flag storage means when a small win is won.

[0136] The special symbol determination process is a process that is performed when a jackpot, time-saving hit, or small hit is won in the special hit determination process. When a jackpot is won, the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) is determined to be one of the following: jackpot 10R symbol A, jackpot 3R symbol A, jackpot 10R symbol B, jackpot 3R symbol B, jackpot 10R symbol C, jackpot 3R symbol C. When a time-saving hit is won, If a small win is won, it is determined whether the small win pattern (type of small win) will be the small win 10R pattern A, the small win 3R pattern A, the small win 10R pattern B, the small win 3R pattern B, the small win 10R pattern C, or the small win 3R pattern C.

[0137] In the special symbol determination process, the special lottery means 546 first selects which of the multiple types of special symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means to use for the random number determination process, depending on whether the special symbol determination random number value for one time included in the read special random number value for one time was stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0138] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means stores special pattern lottery table A shown in Figure 10(C), special pattern lottery table B shown in Figure 10(D), special pattern lottery table C shown in Figure 10(E), and special pattern lottery table D shown in Figure 10(F).

[0139] In detail, the special pattern lottery table A shown in Figure 10(C) is selected when a jackpot is won when the special pattern determination random number value read out for one time is stored as the first special random number value, and the correspondence between the jackpot 10R pattern A, jackpot 3R pattern A, jackpot 10R pattern B, and jackpot 3R pattern B and the random number values ​​from 0 to 99 is set so that the jackpot 10R pattern A is won with a probability of 20 / 100, the jackpot 3R pattern A is won with a probability of 30 / 100, the jackpot 10R pattern B is won with a probability of 20 / 100, and the jackpot 3R pattern B is won with a probability of 30 / 100.

[0140] In addition, the special pattern lottery table B shown in Figure 10 (D) is selected when the special pattern determination random number value read out for one time is stored as the first special random number value, and the correspondence between the time-saving winning pattern A, the time-saving winning pattern B and the random number values ​​from 0 to 99 is set so that the time-saving winning pattern A is won with a probability of 15 / 100 and the time-saving winning pattern B is won with a probability of 85 / 100.

[0141] In addition, the special pattern lottery table C shown in Figure 10(E) is selected when a jackpot is won when the special pattern determination random number value read out for one time is stored as the second special random number value, and the correspondence between the jackpot 10R pattern C, the jackpot 3R pattern C and the random number value from 0 to 99 is set so that there is a 50 / 100 probability of winning the jackpot 10R pattern C and a 50 / 100 probability of winning the jackpot 3R pattern C.

[0142] In addition, the special pattern lottery table D shown in Figure 10 (F) is selected when a small win is won when the special pattern determination random number value read out for one time is stored as the second special random number value, and the correspondence between the small win 10R pattern C, small win 3R pattern C and random number values ​​from 0 to 99 is set so that the small win 10R pattern C is won with a probability of 50 / 100 and the small win 3R pattern C is won with a probability of 50 / 100.

[0143] The special lottery means 546 selects special pattern lottery table A regardless of the game status if the read-out single special pattern determination random number value has been stored as the first special random number value and a jackpot has been won, selects special pattern lottery table B regardless of the game status if the read-out single special pattern determination random number value has been stored as the first special random number value and a time-saving jackpot has been won, selects special pattern lottery table C regardless of the game status if the read-out single special pattern determination random number value has been stored as the second special random number value and a jackpot has been won, and selects special pattern lottery table D regardless of the game status if the read-out single special pattern determination random number value has been stored as the second special random number value and a small jackpot has been won.

[0144] Then, the special lottery means 230 refers to the selected special symbol lottery table and determines whether the read special symbol determination random number value for one time corresponds to any of a plurality of types of big win symbols, a plurality of types of time-saving win symbols or a plurality of types of small win symbols, thereby determining which of a plurality of types of big win symbols, a plurality of types of time-saving win symbols or a plurality of types of small win symbols has been won.

[0145] Then, the special lottery means 230 sets the winning flag corresponding to the winning big winning symbol, time-saving winning symbol or small winning symbol to ON state in the flag storage means 2916.

[0146] The special variation determination process is a process for determining which of a plurality of variation types the variation type of the first special pattern or the second special pattern should be, depending on the game state, the result of the special win determination process, and the result of the special pattern determination process. In the special variation determination process, the special lottery means 546 first determines which of a plurality of types of special variation lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means should be used to perform the random number judgment process, depending on the game state, the result of the special win determination process, and the result of the special pattern determination process.

[0147] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means stores special variation lottery tables A to E shown in Fig. 11. In each special variation lottery table, one of the following variation types is associated with each of 100 random number values ​​from 0 to 99, in which the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is set to 90 seconds: Super Reach A, set to 60 seconds: Super Reach B, set to 30 seconds: Normal Reach, set to 10 seconds: Miss A, set to 6 seconds: Miss B, set to 3 seconds: Miss C, set to 3 seconds: and Special Variation of Special Symbol, set to 0.1 seconds.

[0148] In detail, the selection probability of Super Reach A, Super Reach B, and Normal Reach is higher on Special Variation Lottery Table A, Special Variation Lottery Table B, and Special Variation Lottery Table C than on Special Variation Lottery Table D. On Special Variation Lottery Table A and Special Variation Lottery Table C, the selection probability increases in the order of Super Reach A > Super Reach B > Normal Reach, but on Special Variation Lottery Table B and Special Variation Lottery Table D, the selection probability increases in the order of Normal Reach > Super Reach B > Super Reach A. Furthermore, Miss A, Miss B, and Miss C are not included in the lottery on Special Variation Lottery Table A, Special Variation Lottery Table B, and Special Variation Lottery Table C.

[0149] The special lottery means 546 selects special variable lottery table A when a big win, small win, or time-saving win pattern A is won in a specific state, selects special variable lottery table B when a time-saving win pattern B is won in a specific state, selects special variable lottery table C when a big win or small win is won in a slight time-saving state, selects special variable lottery table D when a time-saving win pattern A or time-saving win pattern B is won in a slight time-saving state, and selects special variable lottery table E when a big win or small win is won in the first time-saving state, second time-saving state, or third time-saving state.

[0150] The special lottery means 546 then refers to the selected special variation lottery table and determines which of the plurality of variation types the one special variation determination random number value included in the one read special random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the plurality of variation types has won. In detail, if the one read special random number value is the first special random number value, the variation type of the first special symbol is determined to be the winning variation type, and if the one read special random number value from the special random number storage means is the second special random number value, the variation type of the second special symbol is determined to be the winning variation type.

[0151] As a result, in this embodiment, the expectation of winning a big win or a small win differs for each of Super Reach A, Super Reach B, and Normal Reach. In addition, when the time-saving winning pattern A or the time-saving winning pattern B is won in the slight time-saving state, the more the number of first special reserved numbers, the more likely it is that a variable type with a short variable time, such as Miss C, will be determined, which may increase the chances of executing a special lottery.

[0152] In addition, when storing the first special random number value or the second special random number value in the special random number storage means, the special lottery means 546 also performs pre-determination processing (game lottery, game determination) such as special win determination processing, special pattern determination processing, special variation determination processing, etc. (pre-determination means).

[0153] In detail, when the special lottery means 546 (preliminary judgment means) acquires a special random number value from the random number generating means 540 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start winning port sensor 504 or the second start winning port sensor 506, it performs a special win determination process, a special pattern determination process, a special variation determination process, etc. as a preliminary judgment process on the first special random number value or the second special random number value, depending on the game status and the number of reserved numbers at that time, before storing it as the first special random number value or the second special random number value in the special random number storage means.

[0154] The special lottery means 546 then stores the pre-determination results, including the results of the special hit determination process, the special pattern determination process, and the special variation determination process, which are pre-determination processes, in the special random number storage means in correspondence with the first special random number value or the second special random number value that was the subject of the pre-determination process.

[0155] The special display control means 548 is a means for controlling the main control display device 520 based on the results of the special lottery, and performs first special pattern display control processing, second special pattern display control processing, first special hold display control processing, and second special hold display control processing.

[0156] The first special symbol display control process is a process that is carried out when a first special random number value is read out from the special random number storage means and a special lottery is held, and the special display control means 548 variably displays the first special symbol by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 for a variation time according to the variation type of the first special symbol determined in the special variation determination process. In this embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is predetermined corresponding to each of the results of the special win determination process or the special symbol determination process, and the special display control means 548 displays the first special symbol in a static manner by displaying the 7-segment display in one of a plurality of display modes according to the result of the special win determination process or the result of the special symbol determination process, and causes the first special symbol display unit 76 to display the result of the special lottery.

[0157] The second special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when a second special random number value is read out from the special random number storage means and a special lottery is held, and the special display control means 548 causes the second special pattern to fluctuate by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 for a fluctuation time according to the fluctuation type of the second special pattern determined in the special fluctuation determination process, and then causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a static state by displaying the 7-segment display in one of a plurality of display modes depending on the result of the special win determination process or the result of the special pattern determination process, and causes the second special pattern display unit 80 to display the result of the special lottery.

[0158] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 548 displays the number of holds from 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or flashing the two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78 depending on the number of the first special random number value stored in the special random number storage means.

[0159] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 548 displays the number of holds between 0 and 1 by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82, depending on the number of second special random number values ​​stored in the special random number storage means.

[0160] The small win game execution means 550 executes a small win game based on the result of the special lottery.

[0161] The small win game is executed based on the winning of the small win 10R symbol A, small win 3R symbol A, small win 10R symbol B, small win 3R symbol B, small win 10R symbol C, or small win 3R symbol C in the special lottery, and the small win game execution means 550 sets a value (for example, 1) corresponding to one predetermined number of rounds for the small win as the upper limit value of the round counter in the main control memory 570, and when the special device 56 operates in a predetermined manner in one round of the small win game, an incremental update is performed to add a value (for example, 1) corresponding to one round of rounds to the stored value of the round counter. Then, when the stored value of the round counter reaches the upper limit value (for example, 1), the small win game ends.

[0162] In detail, in a small win game, the drive control of the special feature drive device 524 is performed so that the predetermined operation of the special feature 56 is such that the special feature 56 is opened and then closed when the opening timer of the main control memory 570 counts 1.7 seconds. Also, the drive control of the specific feature drive device 526 is performed so that the predetermined operation of the specific feature 68 is such that the special feature 56 is opened and the specific feature 68 is opened, and then closed when the small win game ends.

[0163] Then, in one round of small win play, when the special feature 56 operates in a predetermined manner or the value of the large prize number counter in the main control memory 570, to which a value equivalent to one game ball (for example, 1) is added when the large prize opening sensor 508 detects the entry of one game ball, reaches an upper limit value (for example, 10), and the drive control of the special feature drive device 524 and the specific feature drive device 526 is performed so that the special feature 56 and the specific feature 68 are in a closed state, the end condition for one round is considered to be met and "1" is added to the value of the round counter.

[0164] In this way, in the small win game of this embodiment, the special device 56 is opened for 1.7 seconds, and the specific device 68 is maintained in the open state, so that if the game balls are continuously fired so that they enter the large prize opening 54, the game balls can enter the specific area 64 and the normal area 66.

[0165] The big win game execution means 552 executes one of the big win games A to D based on the result of the special lottery.

[0166] The jackpot game A is executed based on the fact that the jackpot 10R symbol A, the jackpot 10R symbol B, or the jackpot 10R symbol C is selected in the special lottery, and the jackpot game execution means 552 sets a value (for example, 10) equivalent to 10 times, which is a predetermined number of rounds, for the jackpot 10R symbol A, the jackpot 10R symbol B, or the jackpot 10R symbol C as the upper limit value of the round counter, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (for example, 1) equivalent to one round number to the stored value of the round counter each time the special device 56 operates in a predetermined manner in each round. When the stored value of the round counter reaches the upper limit value (for example, 10), the jackpot game A ends.

[0167] In detail, in the jackpot game A, in the jackpot games of each of the first to tenth rounds, when the opening timer counts 29 seconds after the special accessory 56 is opened or when the value of the jackpot number counter reaches an upper limit (for example, 10), the drive control of the special accessory drive device 524 is performed so that the special accessory 56 is closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition for one round is met, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter.

[0168] The jackpot game B is executed based on the fact that the jackpot 3R symbol A, the jackpot 3R symbol B, or the jackpot 3R symbol C has been selected in the special lottery, and the jackpot game execution means 552 sets a value (for example, 3) equivalent to three rounds, which is a predetermined number of rounds, for the jackpot 3R symbol A, the jackpot 3R symbol B, or the jackpot 3R symbol C as the upper limit value of the round counter, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (for example, 1) equivalent to one round to the stored value of the round counter each time the special device 56 operates in a predetermined manner in each round. When the stored value of the round counter reaches the upper limit value (for example, 3), the jackpot game B ends.

[0169] In detail, in the jackpot game B, in the jackpot games of each of the first to third rounds, when the opening timer counts 29 seconds after the special accessory 56 is opened or when the value of the jackpot number counter reaches an upper limit (for example, 10), the drive control of the special accessory drive device 524 is performed so that the special accessory 56 is closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition for one round is met, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter.

[0170] The jackpot game C is executed based on the detection of the entry of a game ball into the specific area 64 in a small jackpot game based on the winning of the small jackpot 10R symbol A, the small jackpot 10R symbol B, or the small jackpot 10R symbol C, and the jackpot game execution means 552 sets a value (for example, 9) equivalent to 9 times, which is a predetermined number of rounds for the small jackpot 10R symbol A, the small jackpot 10R symbol B, or the small jackpot 10R symbol C, as the upper limit value of the round counter, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (for example, 1) equivalent to one round number to the stored value of the round counter each time the special device 56 operates in a predetermined manner in each round. When the stored value of the round counter reaches the upper limit value (for example, 9), the jackpot game C ends.

[0171] In detail, in the big win game C, the small win game is the first round, and in the subsequent big win games of each of the second to tenth rounds, when the opening timer counts 29 seconds after the special win device 56 is opened or when the value of the big win number counter reaches an upper limit value (for example, 10), the drive control of the special win device drive device 524 is performed so that the special win device 56 is closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition for one round is met, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.

[0172] The jackpot game D is executed based on the detection of the entry of a game ball into the specific area 64 in a small jackpot game based on the winning of the small jackpot 3R symbol A, small jackpot 3R symbol B, or small jackpot 3R symbol C, and the jackpot game execution means 552 sets a value (for example, 2) equivalent to two rounds, which is a predetermined number of rounds for the small jackpot 3R symbol A, small jackpot 3R symbol B, or small jackpot 3R symbol C, as the upper limit value of the round counter, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (for example, 1) equivalent to one round to the stored value of the round counter each time the special device 56 operates in a predetermined manner in each round. When the stored value of the round counter reaches the upper limit value (for example, 2), the jackpot game C ends.

[0173] In detail, in the big win game D, the small win game is the first round, and in the subsequent big win games of the second round to the third round, when the opening timer counts 29 seconds after the special win device 56 is opened or when the value of the big win number counter reaches an upper limit value (for example, 10), the drive control of the special win device drive device 524 is performed so that the special win device 56 is closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition for one round is met, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.

[0174] As shown in Figure 12, the game state control means 554 performs game state control processing to transition the game state among a specific state, a minute time-shortening state, a special game state, a first time-shortening state, a second time-shortening state, and a third time-shortening state based on the establishment of predetermined transition conditions. The game state transition condition may be a single condition or multiple conditions. When multiple conditions are set, the game state can be transitioned to another game state based on the establishment of one of the multiple predetermined conditions or the establishment of all of the multiple predetermined conditions.

[0175] The specific state is a game state that corresponds to the initial state among multiple types of game states, and it is possible to transition from the specific state to a slight time-saving state, a second time-saving state, or a special game state.

[0176] In the special state, regardless of whether normal pattern A, normal pattern B, or normal pattern C is won in the normal lottery, the normal variation lottery table A shown in Figure 8(C) is referenced, and normal special variation A is executed, in which the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 600 seconds, and the normal device control table A shown in Figure 9(A) is referenced, and normal game A is executed, in which the opening time of normal device 52 is set to 0.1 seconds.

[0177] Therefore, in the specific state, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting winning hole 50, so it is a game state in which it is more advantageous for the player to hit with the left hand.

[0178] The micro-time-saving state is initiated when the time-saving winning symbol B is won in the specific state, and it is possible to transition from the micro-time-saving state to the special game state or the specific state.

[0179] In the slight time-saving state, regardless of whether normal pattern A, normal pattern B, or normal pattern C is won in the normal lottery, normal variation lottery table B shown in Figure 8(D) is referenced, and normal special variation B is executed, in which the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 601 seconds, and normal role control table A shown in Figure 9(A) is referenced, and normal game A is executed, in which the opening time of normal role 52 is set to 0.1 seconds.

[0180] Therefore, in the slight time-saving state, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start winning hole 50, so it is a game state in which it is more advantageous for the player to hit with the left hand.

[0181] In the micro-time-saving state, one first special variation is counted from when the first special pattern is displayed in a changing state until it stops, and one second special variation is counted from when the second special pattern is displayed in a changing state until it stops, and the total number of special variations, which is the sum of the number of first special variations and the number of second special variations, is counted.As shown in Figure 12, the micro-time-saving state ends when the total number of special variations in the state reaches 1,000, and the state transitions to a specific state.

[0182] In detail, when the gaming state is shifted to the minute time-shortening state, the gaming state control means 554 writes a value (e.g., 1000) corresponding to a predetermined total number of special fluctuations (e.g., 1000) to the total special fluctuation counter of the main control storage means 570, and subtracts a value (e.g., 1) corresponding to one total number of special fluctuations from the stored value of the total special fluctuation counter each time a first special fluctuation or a second special fluctuation is performed in the minute time-shortening state. Then, when the stored value of the total special fluctuation counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0) or a special gaming state is started, the minute time-shortening state is ended.

[0183] In addition, even if the time-saving winning pattern B is won in a game state other than the specific state, the game state will not change, and even if the time-saving winning pattern B is won in the slight time-saving state, no value will be added to the total special variation counter.

[0184] The special game state is initiated when a jackpot is won in a special lottery in the specific state, the slight time-saving state, the first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, or the third time-saving state, and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (number of executions) of special games are played according to the type of jackpot symbol. The special game state is initiated when a gaming ball is detected entering the specific area 64 during a small jackpot game, and ends when a predetermined number of rounds of jackpot games are played according to the type of small jackpot symbol.

[0185] In detail, when the special game state is initiated based on the winning of the jackpot 10R pattern A, the jackpot 10R pattern B, or the jackpot 10R pattern C in the special lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 10 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 10th round have been played.

[0186] In addition, when a special game state is initiated based on the winning of the jackpot 3R pattern A, the jackpot 3R pattern B, or the jackpot 3R pattern C in the special lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that three rounds of special games from the first round to the third round have been executed.

[0187] In addition, when a special game state is started based on the game ball entering a specific area 64 in a small win game, the special game state ends when nine rounds of big win games from the second round to the tenth round end.

[0188] In addition, if the entry of the game ball into the specific area 64 is not detected during a small win game, the special game state is not started and the game state is transitioned to a specific state.

[0189] In the special game state, regardless of whether normal pattern A, normal pattern B, or normal pattern C is won in the normal lottery, the normal variable lottery table C shown in Figure 8(E) is referenced, and normal pattern miss A is executed, in which the normal pattern variable time is set to 2 seconds, and the normal device control table A shown in Figure 9(A) is referenced, and normal game A is executed, in which the opening time of normal device 52 is set to 0.1 seconds.

[0190] Therefore, in the slight time-saving state, although it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start winning hole 50, it is easier for the game ball to enter the large winning hole 54, so it is a game state in which it is more advantageous for the player to hit to the right.

[0191] The first time-saving state is initiated when the special game state based on winning a big win 10R pattern A or a big win 3R pattern A ends, or when the special game state via a small win game based on winning a small win 10R pattern A or a small win 3R pattern A ends, and it is possible to transition from the first time-saving state to the special game state or a specific state.

[0192] In the first time-saving state, regardless of whether normal pattern A, normal pattern B, or normal pattern C is won in the normal lottery, normal variation lottery table D shown in Figure 8(F) is referenced, and normal special variation C is executed, in which the variation time of the normal pattern is set to 0.1 seconds, and normal device control table B shown in Figure 9(B) is referenced, and normal game B is executed, in which the opening time of normal device 52 is set to 2 seconds.

[0193] Therefore, as shown in Figure 12, in the first time-saving state, when a normal lottery is held, there is a 1 / 1 probability that the game ball will enter the second starting winning slot 50, making it a game state in which it is more advantageous for the player to hit to the right.

[0194] In the first time-shortening state, in addition to the total number of special fluctuations mentioned above, the number of second special fluctuations, which is the number of second special fluctuations, is counted, and the number of normal fluctuations, which is the number of normal fluctuations, is counted, with one normal fluctuation being the period from when the normal pattern is displayed changing to when it stops, and the state ends and transitions to a specific state when the number of normal fluctuations in the first time-shortening state reaches 100, the number of second special fluctuations in the first time-shortening state reaches 1, or the total number of special fluctuations in the first time-shortening state reaches 10.

[0195] In detail, when the game state transitions to the first time-shortened state, the game state control means 554 writes a value (e.g., 100) equivalent to a predetermined number of normal fluctuations (e.g., 100 times) to the normal fluctuation counter of the main control memory means 570, writes a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to a predetermined second number of special fluctuations (e.g., 1 time) to the second special fluctuation counter of the main control memory means 570, and writes a value (e.g., 10) equivalent to a predetermined total number of special fluctuations (e.g., 10 times) to the total special fluctuation counter.

[0196] Then, in the first time-saving state, each time a normal fluctuation is performed, a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one normal fluctuation is subtracted from the stored value of the normal fluctuation counter, each time a second special fluctuation is performed, a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one second special fluctuation is subtracted from the stored value of the second special fluctuation counter, and each time the first special fluctuation or second special fluctuation is performed, a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one total special fluctuation is subtracted from the stored value of the total special fluctuation counter.

[0197] Then, when the stored value of the normal variable counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), when the stored value of the second special variable counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), when the stored value of the total special variable counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), or when a special game state is initiated, the first time-shortened state is ended.

[0198] The second time-saving state is initiated when the special game state based on winning a big win 10R pattern B or a big win 3R pattern B ends, or when the special game state via a small win game based on winning a small win 10R pattern B or a small win 3R pattern B ends, or when the time-saving win pattern A is won in a specific state, and it is possible to transition from the second time-saving state to the special game state or the specific state.

[0199] In the second time-saving state, if normal pattern A or normal pattern B is won in the normal lottery, normal variation lottery table E shown in Figure 8(G) is referenced, and either normal pattern reach A, in which the normal pattern variation time is set to 20 seconds, normal pattern reach B, in which it is set to 10 seconds, or normal pattern miss A, in which it is set to 1 second, is executed, and normal device control table C shown in Figure 9(C) is referenced, and normal game A, in which the opening time of normal device 52 is set to 0.1 seconds, is executed, but if normal pattern C is won in the normal lottery, normal variation lottery table F shown in Figure 8(H) is referenced, and either normal pattern reach A, in which the normal pattern variation time is set to 20 seconds, or normal pattern reach B, in which it is set to 10 seconds, is executed, and normal device control table C shown in Figure 9(C) is referenced, and normal game B, in which the opening time of normal device 52 is set to 2 seconds, is executed.

[0200] Therefore, as shown in Figure 12, in the second time-saving state, when a normal lottery is held, there is a probability of approximately 0.3 / 100 that the game ball will be easier to enter the second starting winning slot 50, making it a game state in which it is more advantageous for the player to hit to the right.

[0201] In the second time-saving state, the number of normal fluctuations, the number of second special fluctuations, and the total number of special fluctuations are counted, and the state ends and transitions to a specific state when the number of normal fluctuations in the second time-saving state reaches 150, the number of second special fluctuations in the second time-saving state reaches 1, or the total number of special fluctuations in the second time-saving state reaches 10.

[0202] In detail, when the game state transitions to the second time-shortening state, the game state control means 554 writes a value (e.g., 150) equivalent to a predetermined number of normal fluctuations (e.g., 150 times) into the normal fluctuation counter, writes a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to a predetermined second number of special fluctuations (e.g., 1 time) into the second special fluctuation counter, and writes a value (e.g., 10) equivalent to a predetermined total number of special fluctuations (e.g., 10 times) into the total special fluctuation counter.

[0203] Then, in the second time-saving state, each time a normal fluctuation is performed, a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one normal fluctuation is subtracted from the stored value of the normal fluctuation counter, each time a second special fluctuation is performed, a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one second special fluctuation is subtracted from the stored value of the second special fluctuation counter, and each time a first special fluctuation or a second special fluctuation is performed, a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one total special fluctuation is subtracted from the stored value of the total special fluctuation counter.

[0204] Then, the second time-shortening state is ended when the stored value of the normal variable counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the stored value of the second special variable counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the stored value of the total special variable counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), or a special game state is initiated.

[0205] The third time-saving state is initiated when the special game state based on winning a big win 10R pattern C or a big win 3R pattern C ends, or when the special game state via a small win game based on winning a small win 10R pattern C or a small win 3R pattern C ends, and it is possible to transition from the second time-saving state to the special game state or a specific state.

[0206] In the third time-saving state, if normal pattern A is won in the normal lottery, the normal variation lottery table G shown in Figure 8(I) is referenced, and either normal pattern reach A, in which the normal pattern variation time is set to 20 seconds, normal pattern reach B, in which it is set to 10 seconds, or normal pattern miss C, in which it is set to 0.5 seconds, is executed, and the normal device control table D shown in Figure 9(D) is referenced, and normal game A, in which the opening time of the normal device 52 is set to 0.1 seconds, is executed. However, if normal pattern B or normal pattern C is won in the normal lottery, the normal variation lottery table H shown in Figure 8(J) is referenced, and either normal pattern reach A, in which the normal pattern variation time is set to 20 seconds, or normal pattern reach B, in which it is set to 10 seconds, is executed, and the normal device control table D shown in Figure 9(D) is referenced, and normal game B, in which the opening time of the normal device 52 is set to 2 seconds, is executed.

[0207] Therefore, as shown in Figure 12, in the third time-saving state, when a normal lottery is held, there is a probability of approximately 1 / 100 that the game ball will be easier to enter the second starting winning slot 50, making it a game state in which it is more advantageous for the player to hit to the right.

[0208] In the third time-saving state, the number of normal fluctuations, the number of second special fluctuations, and the total number of special fluctuations are counted, and the state ends and transitions to a specific state when the number of normal fluctuations in the third time-saving state reaches 100, the number of second special fluctuations in the second time-saving state reaches 1, or the total number of special fluctuations in the second time-saving state reaches 10.

[0209] In detail, when the game state transitions to the third time-shortening state, the game state control means 554 writes a value (e.g., 100) equivalent to a predetermined number of normal fluctuations (e.g., 100 times) into the normal fluctuation counter, writes a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to a predetermined second number of special fluctuations (e.g., 1 time) into the second special fluctuation counter, and writes a value (e.g., 10) equivalent to a predetermined total number of special fluctuations (e.g., 10 times) into the total special fluctuation counter.

[0210] Then, in the third time-saving state, each time a normal fluctuation is performed, a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one normal fluctuation is subtracted from the stored value of the normal fluctuation counter, each time a second special fluctuation is performed, a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one second special fluctuation is subtracted from the stored value of the second special fluctuation counter, and each time a first special fluctuation or a second special fluctuation is performed, a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one total special fluctuation is subtracted from the stored value of the total special fluctuation counter.

[0211] Then, the second time-shortening state is ended when the stored value of the normal variable counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the stored value of the second special variable counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the stored value of the total special variable counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), or a special game state is initiated.

[0212] Furthermore, even if the time-saving winning symbol A is won in a game state other than the specific state, the game state will not change, and even if the time-saving winning symbol A is won in the second time-saving state, values ​​will not be added to the normal fluctuation counter, the second special fluctuation counter, and the total special fluctuation counter.

[0213] In addition, if the game ball does not enter the second start winning hole 50 in one normal game B in the first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, or the third time-saving state, the first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, or the third time-saving state will continue as is if the normal fluctuation count remains. On the other hand, if the game ball does not enter the specific area 64 in one small win game, the specific state will start even if the normal fluctuation count remains.

[0214] The main communication control means 556 controls the transmission of signals and commands (information) to the sub-control board 600 and the frame control board 700. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the main control board 500 and the sub-control board 600 are connected in a communication manner such that only one-way communication from the main control board 500 to the sub-control board 600 is possible, and signals and commands cannot be sent from the sub-control board 600 to the main control board 500. On the other hand, two-way communication is possible between the main control board 500 and the frame control board 700.

[0215] For example, based on a detection signal from the first start winning opening sensor 504, a winning command indicating a win at the first start winning opening 46 is sent to the frame control board 700, based on a detection signal from the second start winning opening sensor 506, a winning command indicating a win at the second start winning opening 50 is sent to the frame control board 700, based on a detection signal from the large winning opening sensor 508, a winning command indicating a win at the large winning opening 54 is sent to the frame control board 700, and based on a detection signal from the first general winning opening sensor 509, a winning command indicating a win at the large winning opening 55 is sent to the frame control board 700. Based on the detection signal from sensor 14, a winning command indicating a win at the first general winning port 47-1 is sent to the frame control board 700, based on the detection signal from the second general winning port sensor 516, a winning command indicating a win at the second general winning port 47-2 or the third general winning port 47-3 is sent to the frame control board 700, and based on the detection signal from the third general winning port sensor 518, a winning command indicating a win at the fourth general winning port 47-4 is sent to the frame control board 700.

[0216] The main communication control means 556 (external signal output means) also performs processing to control the output state of external signals output to external devices 584, such as a hall computer 580, which is a computer that centrally manages gaming machines installed in an amusement parlor, and a data counter 582, which is individually connected to the gaming machines and displays information about the gaming history of the gaming machines. Specifically, the main communication control means 556 controls the output state of a pattern display signal, which notifies the hall computer 580 and the data counter 582 that the first special symbol or the second special symbol is being displayed variably or stationarily, between an on state and an off state, and controls the output state of a special game signal, which notifies the hall computer 580 and the data counter 582 that the special game state has been set, between an on state and an off state each time the special game state is set.

[0217] Each time a pattern display signal is output, the hall computer 580 and the data counter 582 update and display the number of games, which indicates the number of special lotteries on the gaming machine, and each time a special game in progress signal is output, the hall computer 580 and the data counter 582 update and display the number of jackpots, which indicates the number of times the gaming machine has been set to the special game state.

[0218] The sub-control board 600 performs various calculations to execute effects that match the progress of the game based on information from input means such as the main control board 500, the frame control board 700, and the effect input switch 602, and controls the effect devices 626, such as the effect display device 620, the sound device 622, and the movable object drive device 624, based on the calculation results.

[0219] The effect input switch 602 is provided on the effect button 16, detects an operation on the effect button 16, and outputs a detection signal.

[0220] The performance display device 620 is realized by the front frame lamp 12, the liquid crystal display 31, the decorative lamp 34, etc., and outputs performances using light, images, etc.

[0221] The sound device 622 is realized by the speaker 14 or the like, and outputs effects such as sound and vibration.

[0222] The movable object drive device 624 is realized by a solenoid, motor, etc. that operates the display object 36, and moves the display object 36 between the stored state and the displayed state.

[0223] The sub-control board 600 also functions as a performance control means 640 and a sub-control storage means 670 .

[0224] The performance control means 640 controls the performance display device 620 to light or flash the front frame lamp 12 and decorative lamp 34, display images on the LCD display 31, control the sound device 622 to output sound from the speaker 14, and drive the movable object drive device 624 to operate movable objects such as the performance object 36, based on signals and commands sent from the main control board 500, detection signals from the performance input switch 602, and performance data stored in the sub-control memory means 670, thereby controlling the performance device 626 to execute performances to liven up or assist the game.

[0225] In particular, the sub-control storage means 670 stores a large amount of performance image data such as moving image data (animation data) and still image data for displaying images on the liquid crystal display 31, and the performance control means 640 draws an image in the frame buffer of the sub-control storage means 670 every frame (1 / 30 seconds) based on this performance image data, and displays the drawn image on the liquid crystal display 31, thereby displaying a performance image on the liquid crystal display 31.

[0226] For example, the presentation control means 640 performs lottery presentation processing, status presentation processing, etc. in response to the occurrence of a game event such as a game ball entering the first start winning port 46 or the second start winning port 50, operation of the presentation button 16, or a change in the game status.

[0227] In detail, in the lottery effect processing, the effect control means 640 determines the effect content of the variable effect so that the variation time of the first special pattern or the second special pattern is the same as the variation time of the variable effect, depending on the variation type of the first special pattern or the second special pattern, based on the result of the special lottery transmitted from the main control board 500. Then, the variable effect starts in synchronization with the start of variation of the first special pattern in the first special pattern display section 76, and the effect pattern image is frozen and displayed in a manner depending on the manner of the first special pattern frozen and displayed in the first special pattern display section 76. Also, the variable effect starts in synchronization with the start of variation of the second special pattern in the second special pattern display section 80, and the effect pattern image is frozen and displayed in a manner depending on the manner of the second special pattern frozen and displayed in the second special pattern display section 80.

[0228] Furthermore, in the lottery effect processing, when the gaming state is the first time-shortened state or the second time-shortened state, the effect control means 640 determines the effect content of the variable effect so that the normal pattern variation time and the variation effect presentation time are the same according to the normal pattern variation type, based on the result of the normal lottery sent from the main control board 500. Then, the variable effect starts in synchronization with the start of variation of the normal pattern in the normal pattern display unit 72, and the effect pattern image is displayed in a state according to the state of the normal pattern displayed in a stopped state in the normal pattern display unit 72.

[0229] Specifically, as shown in Figure 13(A), the performance control means 640 displays a background image (not shown) over the entire display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 31, and displays left performance pattern 350, center performance pattern 352, and right performance pattern 354 as performance pattern images in front of the background image. Here, each of left performance pattern 350, center performance pattern 352, and right performance pattern 354 includes a number portion (identification portion) showing one of multiple predetermined types of numbers, and a decorative portion that decorates the number portion, such as a rectangular portion surrounding the number portion.

[0230] 13(B), as the first special symbol, second special symbol, or normal symbol begins to change, the effect control means 640 changes the left effect symbol 350, center effect symbol 352, and right effect symbol 354, and then stops and displays the left effect symbol 350, center effect symbol 352, and right effect symbol 354 in a manner corresponding to the result of the special lottery or normal lottery, and changes the background image on the liquid crystal display 31 in a manner corresponding to each of the multiple types of effect patterns, or plays and displays an effect video in which a character image moves, thereby executing a change effect corresponding to the type of effect pattern on the liquid crystal display 31. Note that the downward arrows in the figure indicate that the left effect symbol 350, center effect symbol 352, and right effect symbol 354 are each being changed and displayed at high speed.

[0231] For example, if a miss A is determined in the special change determination process for the first special pattern, as the change display of the first special pattern begins, the change display of the left performance pattern 350, middle performance pattern 352 and right performance pattern 354 begins, as shown in Figure 13(B), and as shown in Figure 13(C), first the left performance pattern 350 is displayed temporarily stopped in one of the modes (a mode showing "5" in Figure 13(C)) so that it does not stop completely but slightly sways, and then, as shown in Figure 13(D), the right performance pattern 354 is displayed temporarily stopped in a mode different from the left performance pattern 350 (non-reach mode).

[0232] Then, before the first special pattern is displayed, as shown in Figure 13(E), the middle performance pattern 352 is displayed as a temporary stop in a manner different from the left performance pattern 350 and the right performance pattern 354 (a scattered miss manner), and at almost the same time as the first special pattern is displayed as a stopped pattern, as shown in Figure 13(F), the middle performance pattern 352 is displayed as a definitive stop so that it has completely stopped in a manner different from the left performance pattern 350 and the right performance pattern 354 (a scattered miss manner).

[0233] Also, for example, when Super Reach A is determined in the special variation determination process for the first special symbol, as the variation display of the first special symbol begins, as shown in Figure 14(A), the variation display of the left performance symbol 350, the center performance symbol 352, and the right performance symbol 354 begins, as shown in Figure 14(B), first the left performance symbol 350 is temporarily stopped and displayed, and then, as shown in Figure 14(C), while the center performance symbol 352 remains variable, the right performance symbol 354 is temporarily stopped and displayed in the same manner (reach mode) as the left performance symbol 350. Then, as shown in Figure 14(D), playback display of the performance video corresponding to the determined reach performance pattern begins, and playback display of the performance video is completed within the variation time of the first special symbol.

[0234] 14(D), an effect video in which character A fights character B is played back and displayed in the center of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 31, and when this effect video is played back and displayed, instead of the left effect symbol 350, the center effect symbol 352, and the right effect symbol 354 displayed in the center of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 31, a reduced left effect symbol 360 corresponding to the left effect symbol 350, a reduced middle effect symbol 362 corresponding to the middle effect symbol 352, and a reduced right effect symbol 364 corresponding to the right effect symbol 354 are displayed in the upper right part of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 31. That is, as shown in FIG. 14(D), the reduced left effect symbol 360 and the reduced right effect symbol 364 are displayed temporarily stopped in the same manner (reach manner), while the reduced middle effect symbol 362 is displayed variably.

[0235] If a jackpot has been won, as shown in Figure 14 (E), a presentation video in which character A wins against character B is played back and displayed in the center of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, and the shrinking middle presentation pattern 362 is temporarily stopped and displayed in the same manner (winning manner) as the shrinking left presentation pattern 360 and the shrinking right presentation pattern 364 in the upper right corner of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, thereby provisionally notifying the player that a jackpot has been won.

[0236] Then, the animation in which character A defeats character B ends, and as shown in Figure 14 (F), the left performance pattern 350, middle performance pattern 352 and right performance pattern 354 are displayed in a provisionally stopped state in the center of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, and then, as shown in Figure 14 (G), the left performance pattern 350, middle performance pattern 352 and right performance pattern 354 are displayed in a definitively stopped state in the center of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, and a sound effect informing the player that a jackpot has been won is output from the speaker 14, thereby definitively informing the player that a jackpot has been won.

[0237] On the other hand, if the jackpot is not won, as shown in Figure 14 (H), a presentation video in which character A is defeated by character B is played in the center of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, and the shrinking middle presentation pattern 362 is temporarily stopped and displayed in a different manner (missed reach manner) from the shrinking left presentation pattern 360 and the shrinking right presentation pattern 364 in the upper right corner of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, thereby provisionally informing the player that the jackpot was not won.

[0238] Then, the video of character A being defeated by character B ends, and as shown in Figure 14(I), the left performance pattern 350, middle performance pattern 352 and right performance pattern 354 are displayed in a provisionally stopped state in the center of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, and then, as shown in Figure 14(J), the left performance pattern 350, middle performance pattern 352 and right performance pattern 354 are displayed in a definitively stopped state in the center of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, thereby definitively informing the player that they have not won the jackpot.

[0239] Here, in the lottery performance processing, a common performance may be executed both when a jackpot is won and when a jackpot is not won, and when a common performance is executed, the player's expectations for winning the jackpot can be greatly increased.

[0240] In this embodiment, for each of the multiple types of effects, the expected probability of winning is predetermined as the degree of possibility that the result will be advantageous to the player if the effect is executed, and the selection rate for each of the multiple types of effects is set in both the effect lottery table that is referenced when the result will be advantageous to the player and the effect lottery table that is referenced when the result will not be advantageous to the player, so that effects with higher expected probability are more likely to be executed when the result will be advantageous to the player than effects with lower expected probability.

[0241] In this embodiment, the left performance pattern 350, middle performance pattern 352 and right performance pattern 354 are displayed on the liquid crystal display 31 in a varying display pattern according to the type of change of the first special pattern, second special pattern and normal pattern in the status display device 70, and various displays are executed to increase the player's expectations for a favorable result, and the left performance pattern 350, middle performance pattern 352 and right performance pattern 354 are displayed as provisional stops and then as definitive stops in a manner according to the result of the special lottery or normal lottery, thereby informing the player of the result of the special lottery.

[0242] Furthermore, the performance control means 640 controls the movable object driving device 624 to operate the movable object in accordance with the progress of the performance symbol image and the changing performance image as a changing performance. In detail, in this embodiment, the performance control means 640 controls the movable object driving device 624 such as a solenoid or a motor to move the performance object 36 from the stored state to the appearing state, or to return it from the appearing state to the stored state.

[0243] The various variable effects have different display patterns for the effect symbol images and variable effect images, different movement patterns for the movable objects, different probabilities of being selected depending on the results of the special lottery or the regular lottery, and different execution times from start to finish. As a result, the various variable effects have different expectations for winning a jackpot or a regular prize when the various variable effects are executed, and different expectations for winning various symbols.

[0244] In the status presentation processing, the presentation control means 640 performs status presentation that indicates the current game status to the player by moving the character image on the LCD display 31, changing the background image, or moving movable objects according to the current game status, based on signals and commands sent from the main control board 500.

[0245] In detail, when the current game state is a specific state or a slight time-shortening state, the presentation control means 640 causes the liquid crystal display 31 to display a normal state image corresponding to the specific state or the slight time-shortening state; when the current game state is a special game state, the presentation control means 640 causes the liquid crystal display 31 to display a special game state image corresponding to the special game state; when the current game state is a first time-shortening state, the presentation control means 640 causes the liquid crystal display 31 to display a first time-shortening state image corresponding to the first time-shortening state; when the current game state is a second time-shortening state, the presentation control means 640 causes the liquid crystal display 31 to display a second time-shortening state image corresponding to the second time-shortening state; and when the current game state is a third time-shortening state, the presentation control means 640 causes the liquid crystal display 31 to display a third time-shortening state image corresponding to the third time-shortening state.

[0246] Furthermore, the performance control means 640 controls the output of a specific performance sound from the speaker 14, the display of a specific performance image on the liquid crystal display 31, and the operation of movable objects based on the operation of the performance button 16 at a predetermined timing.

[0247] 15 is a functional block diagram of the frame control board 700. The frame control board 700 performs various calculations to control the release of game balls, the circulation of game balls within the gaming machine, and the management (storage) and display of the number of balls held, based on information from input means such as the main control board 500, ball removal switch 702, rectifier inlet sensor 704, rectifier outlet sensor 706, foul ball sensor 708, out sensor 710, low circulating ball count sensor 712, high circulating ball count sensor 714, counting switch 716, operation volume 718, touch sensor 720, launch stop switch 722, and open sensor 724, as well as from the dedicated unit control board 800. Based on the calculation results, the frame control board 700 controls output means such as the ball count display device 740, rectifier drive device 742, launch drive device 744, and lifting drive device 746, and transmits information to the dedicated unit control board 800.

[0248] The ball removal switch 702 is provided on a ball removal button (not shown) provided on the frame control board 700, and detects operation of the ball removal button and outputs a detection signal. Since the ball removal button is provided on the frame control board 700, it can be operated by an administrator of the gaming machine or the like when the inner frame 7 is open relative to the outer frame 2.

[0249] The rectifier inlet sensor 704 is provided at the inlet of the rectifier 116, and outputs a detection signal each time a gaming ball passes through the inlet of the rectifier 116. When three gaming balls are staying in the rectifier 116, the sensor continues to output the detection signal while the third gaming ball is staying at the inlet of the rectifier 116.

[0250] The rectifier outlet sensor 706 is provided at the outlet of the rectifier 116 and outputs a detection signal every time a gaming ball passes through the outlet of the rectifier 116 .

[0251] The foul ball sensor 708 is provided in the foul passage and outputs a detection signal every time a gaming ball passes through the foul passage.

[0252] The out sensor 710 (specific detection means) is provided at the collection port 104, and outputs a detection signal every time one gaming ball passes through the collection port 104.

[0253] The circulating ball count insufficient sensor 712 is provided in the second passage 106 and outputs a detection signal when the number of game balls staying in the second passage 106 is 43 or more.

[0254] The circulating ball excess sensor 714 is provided in the second passage 106 and outputs a detection signal when the number of game balls staying in the second passage 106 is 47 or more.

[0255] The count switch 716 is provided on the count button 18, detects an operation on the count button 18, and outputs a detection signal.

[0256] The operation volume 718 is provided on the handle 20 and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the rotation angle of the handle 20 .

[0257] The touch sensor 720 (contact detection means) is provided on the handle 20, and detects the player's contact with the handle 20 and outputs a detection signal.

[0258] The firing stop switch 722 is provided on the firing stop button of the handle 20, detects operation of the firing stop button, and outputs a detection signal.

[0259] The open sensor 724 is provided on the inner frame 7 and detects that the inner frame 7 and the front frame 10 are open relative to the outer frame 2, or that the front frame 10 is open relative to the inner frame 7 and the outer frame 2, and outputs a detection signal.

[0260] The ball count display device 740 is realized by an LED board or the like, and displays the number of balls held on the ball count display unit 17.

[0261] The rectifier driver 742 is realized by a solenoid or the like provided in the rectifier 116, and operates the interrupting member 118 between an interrupting state and a non-interrupting state.

[0262] The firing drive unit 744 is realized by a motor or the like provided in the firing unit, and operates the hammer of the firing unit.

[0263] The lifting drive device 746 is realized by a motor or the like provided in the lifting unit 108 and operates the lifting screw 110 .

[0264] The dedicated unit control board 800 is provided in the dedicated unit and is realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, or by software consisting of a given program pre-stored in ROM, etc.

[0265] The dedicated unit control board 800 performs various calculations to lend out game balls and return the number of balls held based on information from input means such as a touch panel, banknote identification device, card reader, etc., and from the frame control board 700, and based on the calculation results, controls output means such as a dedicated unit display device, banknote receiving device, card writer, etc., and sends information to the frame control board 700.

[0266] The frame control board 700 also functions as a frame state control means 760, a ball count management means 762, a launch control means 764, a circulation control means 766, a circulating ball count determination means 768, a frame communication control means 774, and a frame control memory 780.

[0267] The frame state control means 760 sets the management state managed by the frame control board 700 to one of a startup preparation state, which is the state from when the gaming machine is powered on until communication with the main control board 500 and the dedicated unit control board 800 becomes possible, a normal management state, which is a state in which communication with the main control board 500 and the dedicated unit control board 800 is possible and games can be played, and a ball removal state, which is a state in which games cannot be played and games balls inside the gaming machine can be ejected to the outside.

[0268] In detail, if the detection signal from the ball removal switch 702 is in the OFF state when the gaming machine is powered on, i.e., if the gaming machine is powered on with the ball removal button not pressed, the slot state control means 760 sets the management state to the startup preparation state and then to the normal management state, and if the detection signal from the ball removal switch 702 is in the ON state when the gaming machine is powered on, i.e., if the gaming machine is powered on with the ball removal button pressed, the slot state control means 760 sets the management state to the ball removal state. Note that the management state being set is maintained until the power is turned off, so if you want to change the management state, you need to turn the gaming machine off and then on again.

[0269] In the normal management state, the ball count management means 762 updates the value corresponding to the number of balls stored in the ball count counter 782 of the frame control memory 780 based on commands from the main control board 500 or the dedicated unit control board 800, and controls the number of balls to be displayed on the ball count display device 740 based on the value stored in the ball count counter 782.

[0270] In detail, the ball count management means 762 adds a value corresponding to the number of loaned balls to the value corresponding to the number of balls in possession stored in the ball count counter 782 based on the loan command transmitted from the dedicated unit control board 800. In this embodiment, each time a loan command is received, 125, corresponding to 125 loaned balls, is added to the value of the ball count counter 782.

[0271] In addition, based on the detection signal from the rectifier outlet sensor 706, the ball count management means 762 subtracts 1 from the value of the ball count counter 782 when one game ball is launched from the launching device, and based on the detection signal from the foul ball sensor 708, it adds 1 to the value of the ball count counter 782 when one launched game ball is returned.

[0272] In addition, the ball holding number management means 762 adds a value corresponding to a predetermined number of prize balls for each winning slot to the value of the ball holding number counter 782 based on the winning command corresponding to each winning slot sent from the main control board 500. Specifically, based on a winning command indicating entry into the first starting entry port 46, 3 is added to the value of the ball count counter 782, based on a winning command indicating entry into the first general entry port 47-1, 4 is added to the value of the ball count counter 782, based on a winning command indicating entry into the second general entry port 47-2 or the third general entry port 47-3, 3 is added to the value of the ball count counter 782, based on a winning command indicating entry into the fourth general entry port 47-4, 1 is added to the value of the ball count counter 782, based on a winning command indicating entry into the second starting entry port 50, 1 is added to the value of the ball count counter 782, and based on a winning command indicating entry into the large entry port 54, 10 is added to the value of the ball count counter 782.

[0273] Furthermore, when the value of the ball count counter 782 is 1 or greater, the ball count management means 762 sends a count command to the dedicated unit control board 800 based on the detection signal from the count switch 716, and subtracts a value corresponding to the count command from the value of the ball count counter 782. In this embodiment, when a short press operation is performed on the count button 18 so that the count button is pressed for less than 2 seconds, a count command corresponding to the short press operation is sent to the dedicated unit control board 800, and 1 is subtracted from the value of the ball count counter 782, and when a long press operation is performed on the count button 18 so that the count button is pressed for 2 seconds or greater, a count command corresponding to the long press operation is sent to the dedicated unit control board 800 every 0.3 seconds, and 250 is subtracted from the value of the ball count counter 782.

[0274] The launch control means 764 controls the rectifier drive device 742 and the launch drive device 744 based on the value of the ball count counter 782, a launch permission signal from the main control board 500 that allows the launch of game balls, and detection signals from the rectifier inlet sensor 704, the rectifier outlet sensor 706, the operating volume 718, the touch sensor 720, and the launch stop switch 722.

[0275] In detail, in the normal management state, when the value of the ball count counter 782 is 1 or more, the detection signal of the rectifier inlet sensor 704 is in the ON state for more than 2 seconds, i.e., three game balls are staying in the rectifier 116, the detection signal from the operation volume 718 is in the ON state, the detection signal from the touch sensor 720 is in the ON state, the detection signal from the launch stop switch 722 is in the OFF state, and the launch permission signal from the main control board 500 is in the ON state, the launch control means 764 controls the rectifier drive device 742 so that the blocking member 118 of the rectifier 116 sends one game ball to the launch device every 1.65 seconds, and controls the launch drive device 744 so that the hammer hits the game ball when one game ball is sent to the launch device.

[0276] In addition, in the normal management state, the launch control means 764 controls the rectifier drive device 742 so that the blocking member 118 of the rectifier 116 does not send the game ball to the launching device, and controls the launch drive device 744 so that the hammer of the launching device does not hit the game ball, when the value of the ball count counter 782 is 0, the detection signal of the rectifier inlet sensor 704 is in the ON state and has not been in the ON state for more than two seconds, i.e., when three game balls are not staying in the rectifier 116, the detection signal of the rectifier outlet sensor 706 is in the ON state, the detection signal from the operation volume 718 is in the OFF state, the detection signal from the touch sensor 720 is in the OFF state, the detection signal from the launch stop switch 722 is in the ON state, or the launch permission signal from the main control board 500 is in the OFF state.

[0277] On the other hand, in the ball removal state, unlike the normal management state, the launch control means 764 controls the rectifier drive device 742 so that the blocking member 118 of the rectifier 116 sends one game ball to the launch device every 1.65 seconds, even if the value of the ball count counter 782 is 0, even if the detection signal of the rectifier inlet sensor 704 is OFF, even if the launch permission signal from the main control board 500 is OFF, even if the detection signal of the rectifier outlet sensor 706 is OFF, even if the detection signal from the operating volume 718 is ON, even if the detection signal from the touch sensor 720 is ON, and even if the detection signal from the launch stop switch 722 is OFF, and controls the launch drive device 744 so that the hammer hits the game ball when one game ball is sent to the launch device.

[0278] In addition, in the ball removal state, when the detection signal from the rectifier outlet sensor 706 is in the ON state, the detection signal from the touch sensor 720 is in the OFF state, the detection signal from the operating volume 718 is in the OFF state, or the detection signal from the launch stop switch 722 is in the ON state, the launch control means 764 controls the rectifier drive device 742 so that the blocking member 118 of the rectifier 116 does not perform the operation of sending the game ball to the launch device, and controls the launch drive device 744 so that the hammer of the launch device does not perform the operation of hitting the game ball.

[0279] The circulation control means 766 controls the lifting drive device 746 based on the value of the ball count counter 782, the launch permission signal from the main control board 500, and detection signals from the rectifier inlet sensor 704, the operating volume 718, the touch sensor 720, the launch stop switch 722, and the open sensor 724.

[0280] In detail, in the normal management state, when the value of the ball count counter 782 is 1 or more, the detection signal from the operating volume 718 is in the ON state, the detection signal from the touch sensor 720 is in the ON state, the detection signal from the launch stop switch 722 is in the OFF state, and the launch permission signal from the main control board 500 is in the ON state, the circulation control means 766 controls the lifting drive device 746 so that the lifting screw 110 operates to lift the game balls to the third passage 114.

[0281] In addition, in the normal management state, the circulation control means 766 controls the lifting drive device 746 so that the lifting screw 110 does not lift game balls to the third passage 114 when the value of the ball count counter 782 is 0, the detection signal from the operating volume 718 is in the OFF state, the detection signal from the touch sensor 720 is in the OFF state, the detection signal from the launch stop switch 722 is in the ON state, or the launch permission signal from the main control board 500 is in the OFF state.

[0282] That is, as the launching device launches the gaming balls, the lifting screw 110 lifts the gaming balls to the third passage 114.

[0283] Also, under normal management conditions, the circulation control means 766 controls the lifting drive device 746 so that the lifting screw 110 lifts the game balls to the third passage 114 when the open sensor 724 is in the ON state for more than two seconds, i.e., when the inner frame 7 and the front frame 10 are in the open state relative to the outer frame 2 for more than two seconds.

[0284] In addition, under normal management conditions, the circulation control means 766 controls the lifting drive device 746 so that the lifting screw 110 does not lift game balls to the third passage 114 when the open sensor 724 is in the ON state, if the detection signal of the rectifier inlet sensor 704 remains in the ON state for more than two seconds, i.e., even if the inner frame 7 and front frame 10 are open to the outer frame 2, and three game balls are staying in the rectifier 116, or when the open sensor 724 is in the OFF state for more than two seconds, i.e., when the inner frame 7 and front frame 10 are closed to the outer frame 2 for more than two seconds.

[0285] On the other hand, in the ball removal state, which differs from the normal management state, the circulation control means 766 controls the lifting drive device 746 so that the lifting screw 110 lifts the game balls to the third passage 114 when the value of the ball count counter 782 is 0, the launch permission signal from the main control board 500 is OFF, the detection signal from the operating volume 718 is ON, the detection signal from the touch sensor 720 is ON, and the detection signal from the launch stop switch 722 is OFF.

[0286] In addition, in the ball removal state, the circulation control means 766 controls the lifting drive device 746 so that the lifting screw 110 does not lift the game balls to the third passage 114 when the detection signal from the operating volume 718 is in the OFF state, the detection signal from the touch sensor 720 is in the OFF state, or the detection signal from the launch stop switch 722 is in the ON state.

[0287] In other words, when the balls are removed, the value of the ball count counter 782 is 0 and the launch permission signal from the main control board 500 is in the OFF state, but if the manager of the gaming machine or the like touches the handle 20 and rotates it, the rectifier drive unit 742, launch drive unit 744, and lifting drive unit 746 will operate.

[0288] As a result, in the ball removal state, even if the above-mentioned ball removal lever 122 is in the open state, the remaining game balls can be launched into the game area 4, passed through the first passage 102, the second passage 106, and the discharge passage 120, and discharged from the discharge port 124.

[0289] The circulating ball number determination means 768 determines whether the number of game balls staying in the second passage 106 is too few based on the detection signal from the circulating ball number insufficient sensor 712, and outputs an insufficient error if the number of game balls is too few. The circulating ball number determination means 768 also determines whether the number of game balls staying in the second passage 106 is too many based on the detection signal from the circulating ball number excessive sensor 714, and outputs an excessive error if the number of game balls is too many.

[0290] The frame communication control means 774 controls the transmission of signals and commands to the main control board 500 and the dedicated unit control board 800. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, two-way communication is possible between the frame control board 700 and the dedicated unit control board 800, but there is no direct communication connection between the sub-control board 600 and the frame control board 700.

[0291] 3. Method of this embodiment The flow of the game in this embodiment will be explained below with reference to Figure 12. First, in the specific state, which is the initial state, when a left-handed shot is made and the game ball enters the first start winning slot 46, a special lottery is held for the first special random number value, and a time-saving win is won with a probability of approximately 219 / 220, of which if the time-saving winning symbol A is won with a probability of 85 / 100, the second time-saving state is started, and if the time-saving winning symbol B is won with a probability of 15 / 100, the minute time-saving state is started.

[0292] In the slightly time-shortened state, when a left-handed shot is made and the game ball enters the first starting winning hole 46, a special lottery is held for the first special random number value, and the slightly time-shortened state continues until a jackpot is won with a probability of about 1 / 220 or until the total number of special fluctuations reaches 1,000.

[0293] In this embodiment, when a special lottery is conducted for the first special random number value in a specific state, the player is assigned to either the slight time-saving state or the specific state, but the player is assigned to the slight time-saving state and tends to stay in the slight time-saving state more often.

[0294] In the specific state and the slight time-saving state, a jackpot is won in a special lottery for the first special random number value with a probability of approximately 1 / 220, and if a jackpot 10R pattern A or a jackpot 3R pattern A is won with a probability of 50 / 100, the first time-saving state will begin after the end of the special game state for the first win, and if a jackpot 10R pattern B or a jackpot 3R pattern B is won with a probability of 50 / 100, the second time-saving state will begin after the end of the special game state for the first win.

[0295] In the first time-saving state, when a right hit is made and the game ball passes through the passage gate 48, a normal lottery is held for the normal random number value, and if normal pattern A, normal pattern B, or normal pattern C is won with a 1 / 1 probability, normal game B is executed, the game ball enters the second start winning port 50, a special lottery is held for the second special random number value, a big hit or small hit is won with a 1 / 1 probability, and a special game state with consecutive hits begins. In other words, in the first time-saving state, if the player continues to hit the right, when the first normal lottery, that is, the first normal variation, is held, a special game state with consecutive hits begins.

[0296] Here, in the first time-saving state, the normal lottery determines the normal symbol special variation C, with a variation time set to 0.1 seconds, as the variation type of the normal symbol, and the special lottery determines the special symbol special variation, with a variation time set to 0.1 seconds, as the variation type of the second special symbol, so that if the player continues to hit the right button, a special game state with consecutive wins will immediately begin.

[0297] In this embodiment, the jackpot game in the initial special game state and the jackpot game (second game) or small jackpot game (second game) in the consecutive win special game state transitioned from the first time-saving state are played consecutively, and the number of balls added up in the initial special game state, i.e., the number of game balls acquired by the player, and the number of game balls acquired by the player in the consecutive win special game state transitioned from the first time-saving state, are cumulatively updated and displayed on the LCD display 31, so that the initial special game state and the consecutive win special game state transitioned from the first time-saving state are presented as if they were a single special game state. This allows the player to feel as if they have acquired many game balls in one special game state in this embodiment.

[0298] In the second time-saving state, when a right hit is made and the game ball passes through the passage gate 48, a normal lottery is conducted for the normal random number value, and if normal pattern C is won with a probability of approximately 0.3 / 100, normal game B is executed, the game ball enters the second start winning slot 50, a special lottery is conducted for the second special random number value, a big win or small win is won with a probability of 1 / 1, and a special game state of consecutive wins begins. Also, in the second time-saving state, when the number of normal fluctuations reaches 150, a specific state begins.

[0299] In the first and second time-shortening states, a special lottery is held for the second special random number value, and if a big hit or small hit is won, a big hit 10R pattern C, a big hit 3R pattern C, a small hit 10R pattern C or a small hit 3R pattern C is won, and the third time-shortening state begins after the special game state of consecutive hits ends.

[0300] In the third time-saving state (second game state), when a right hit is made and the game ball passes through the passing gate 48 (first area), a normal lottery (first game judgment) is performed for the normal random number value (first game information), and if normal pattern B or normal pattern C is won with a probability of approximately 1 / 100 (first result), normal game B (first game) is executed, the game ball enters the second start winning hole 50 (second area), a special lottery (second game judgment) is performed for the second special random number value (second game information), and a big hit or small hit is won with a probability of 1 / 1 (second result), and a special game state (first game state) of consecutive hits is initiated. Also, in the third time-saving state, when the normal fluctuation count reaches 100, a specific state is initiated.

[0301] Then, even in the third time-saving state, a special lottery is held for the second special random number value, and if a big hit or small hit is won, a big hit 10R pattern C, a big hit 3R pattern C, a small hit 10R pattern C or a small hit 3R pattern C is won, and the third time-saving state begins after the special game state of consecutive hits ends.

[0302] In this embodiment, when one normal game B is played, as long as the player continues to hit the right side, two to three game balls can be allowed to enter the second start winning port 50 within the two seconds that the normal device 52 is in the open state.In the special random number storage means, when the first game ball enters the second start winning port 50 and the second special random number value for one play is stored, after the valid period during which the detection of game balls by the second start winning port sensor 506 is valid in that normal game B has elapsed, the second special random number value for one play is read out from the second special reserve storage area and the first special lottery is held.

[0303] Therefore, even if the second or subsequent game ball enters the second start entry port 50 in one normal game B, the second special reserve number has reached the upper limit and no new second special random number value is reserved, so that a maximum of one second special random number value is reserved in one normal game B.

[0304] As a result, in this embodiment, when one normal game B is played, a maximum of one special lottery is played, and one consecutive win special game state is started. Then, when one consecutive win special game state ends, the third time-shortened state is started in a state where the second special random number value is not reserved in the special random number storage means.

[0305] 16(A) and 16(B) are diagrams showing the type of normal symbol variation when the special game state ends and the third time-saving state begins, and the type of effect executed by the effect device 626. In this embodiment, when right-hand hits are continuously performed in the special game state and the third time-saving state, the game ball passes through the passage gates 48 one after another, so that the normal lottery, the normal symbol variation display, the stop display, and the normal game are repeatedly performed.

[0306] In the special game state, as described above, regardless of whether normal pattern A, normal pattern B or normal pattern C is won in the normal lottery, the normal pattern is displayed in a changing pattern of normal pattern miss A, in which the normal pattern change time is set to 2 seconds, and normal game A is executed, in which the opening time of normal device 52 is set to 0.1 seconds, so the time required from the execution of one normal lottery until the normal pattern change display, stop display and execution of normal game A is completed is 2.5 seconds.

[0307] Therefore, when the right hand is continuously hit in the special game state, the normal reserved number is maintained at 3 or 4, and the normal lottery is repeatedly performed every 2.5 seconds, as shown in Figure 16(A).

[0308] Furthermore, in the third time-saving state, as mentioned above, when normal pattern A is won in the normal lottery with a probability of approximately 99 / 100, the normal pattern is displayed in a changing pattern of normal pattern miss C with the normal pattern changing time set to 0.5 seconds with a probability of approximately 85 / 100, and normal game A is executed with the opening time of normal device 52 set to 0.1 seconds, so that it often takes 1 second from the time one normal lottery is executed until the normal pattern changing display, stop display, and execution of normal game A are completed.

[0309] Therefore, when the right hand is continuously pressed in the third time-saving state, the number of normal reserved balls is maintained at three or four, and the normal lottery is often repeated every second, as shown in Figure 16(A).

[0310] In the special game state, a special game effect in which a special game state image is displayed is executed, and each time a normal lottery is performed, a variable display and a stationary display of a reduced left effect pattern 360, a reduced middle effect pattern 362 and a reduced right effect pattern 364 are displayed in the upper right corner of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 31.

[0311] In addition, in the third time-saving state, the third time-saving effect in which the third time-saving state image is displayed is executed, and each time a normal lottery is performed, the left effect pattern 350, the middle effect pattern 352 and the right effect pattern 354 are displayed in a varying and stopped state in the center of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 31.

[0312] Here, in the third time-saving state, it is rare that normal game B is executed by the first normal lottery and a transition to the special game state occurs, as in the first time-saving state. However, if normal game B is executed by a normal lottery for the normal random number value that has been reserved before the special game state ends and a transition to the special game state occurs again, a highly effective presentation can be realized if a specific presentation that suggests a transition to the special game state again can be executed as a pre-reading presentation based on the results of a prior determination of the normal random number value before the special game state ends.

[0313] However, in this embodiment, since the normal lottery is repeatedly performed even in the special game state, the reserved normal random number values ​​are replaced one after another, and in the third time-saving state, even if normal pattern A, which executes normal game A, is won, normal pattern reach A, with the normal pattern fluctuation time set to 20 seconds, or normal pattern reach B, with the normal pattern fluctuation time set to 10 seconds, may be executed.

[0314] Therefore, even if the normal random number value reserved before the special game state ends is one that the pre-determined result is that normal pattern B or normal pattern C will be won, i.e., normal game B will be executed, it may not be appropriate to execute the specific effect.

[0315] Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 16 (B), at the start of the 4-second ending period until the special game state ends, specific normal random number values ​​whose pre-determination results are normal pattern B or normal pattern C and normal pattern reach A are reserved in normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 4 (storage means), and if no normal random number values ​​whose pre-determination results are normal pattern reach A or normal pattern reach B are reserved in a normal reserve memory area with an ordinal number smaller than that of the normal reserve memory area in which the specific normal random number values ​​are reserved, a decision is made to execute a specific performance.

[0316] Then, the execution of the specific performance starts from the start of the ending period, and when a normal lottery is carried out for the specific normal random number value, the execution of the specific normal symbol reach performance starts in accordance with the variable display of the normal symbol.

[0317] In this embodiment, the performance time of the specific normal reach performance is set to 20 seconds, the same as the variable time of normal reach A, so if the normal random number value that results from the preliminary judgment is normal pattern B or normal pattern C and normal reach B is reserved, the execution of the specific performance will not be decided.

[0318] In the example of Figure 16(B), a specific normal random number value is reserved in normal reserve memory area 4 at the start of the ending period, and normal random number values ​​whose pre-determination results in normal reach A or normal reach B are not reserved in normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 3, so the execution of the specific effect begins at the start of the ending period.

[0319] Here, while the specific effect is being executed, even if the game state is in the third time-saving state, each time a normal lottery is executed, the shrinking left effect pattern 360, the shrinking middle effect pattern 362 and the shrinking right effect pattern 364 are displayed changing and stopped in the upper right part of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 31, and even when the execution of the specific normal reach effect begins, the shrinking left effect pattern 360, the shrinking middle effect pattern 362 and the shrinking right effect pattern 364 are displayed changing in the upper right part of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 31, so that a performance image with a high performance effect is displayed in the center of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 31.

[0320] Then, at the end of the specific normal reach effect, the left effect pattern 350, the middle effect pattern 352 and the right effect pattern 354 are displayed in a varying and stopped state in the center of the display area of ​​the LCD display 31, and an announcement effect is executed to notify the player that they will once again be transitioning to a special game state.

[0321] In addition, when a specific effect is not executed, if the type of change in the normal pattern is normal reach A, the normal reach A effect is executed in accordance with the change display of the normal pattern, and if the type of change in the normal pattern is normal reach B, the normal reach B effect is executed in accordance with the change display of the normal pattern.

[0322] Figures 17(A) and 17(B) are diagrams showing the variation types of normal patterns corresponding to the normal random number values ​​reserved in each of normal reserved memory areas 1 to 4 at the start of the ending period.

[0323] As shown in Figures 17(A) and 17(B), the ending period in this embodiment is 4 seconds, so when a normal lottery is repeatedly performed every 2.5 seconds in the special game state, for the normal random number value in the first normal pending memory area at the start of the ending period, the normal pattern variation type will be normal pattern miss A, and the game type of the normal game that can be performed will be normal game A, because the normal lottery is always performed in the special game state.

[0324] As shown in Figure 17(A), if the start of the ending period is before one second has passed since the start of the display of the normal pattern corresponding to the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area, then for the normal random number value in the second normal reserve memory area at the start of the ending period, the normal lottery is conducted in the third time-saving state, and the type of change in the normal pattern will be either normal pattern reach A, normal pattern reach B, or normal pattern miss C, and the game type of the normal game that can be played will be normal game A or normal game B.

[0325] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 17 (B), if the start of the ending period is one second after the start of the variable display of the normal pattern corresponding to the normal random number value in the normal pending memory area, then for the normal random number value in the second normal pending memory area at the start of the ending period, the normal lottery is conducted in the special game state, so the variable type of the normal pattern becomes normal miss A, and the game type of the normal game that can be played becomes normal game A.

[0326] Also, as shown in Figures 17(A) and 17(B), whether the start of the ending period is before or after one second has passed since the start of the display of the normal pattern corresponding to the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area, the normal lottery is always conducted in the third time-saving state for the normal random number value in the third normal reserve memory area and the normal random number value in the fourth normal reserve memory area at the start of the ending period, so the type of change in the normal pattern will be either normal pattern reach A, normal pattern reach B, or normal pattern miss C, and the game type of the normal game that can be played will be normal game A or normal game B.

[0327] Therefore, in this embodiment, with regard to the normal random number value of the third normal hold memory area and the normal random number value of the fourth normal hold memory area at the start of the ending period, it is possible to determine whether or not a specific effect can be executed based on the results of a preliminary judgment when the game state is in the third time-shortened state, but with regard to the normal random number value of the second normal hold memory area at the start of the ending period, it may or may not be possible to determine whether or not a specific effect can be executed based on the results of a preliminary judgment when the game state is in the third time-shortened state.

[0328] Furthermore, regarding the normal random number value in the first normal reserve memory area at the start of the ending period, normal game B will not be executed, so there is no need to determine whether or not a specific effect can be executed.

[0329] Therefore, in this embodiment, a specific effect is executed when the normal random number value in the third normal reserve memory area or the normal random number value in the fourth normal reserve memory area at the start of the ending period is a specific normal random number value that results in a pre-determination when the game state is in the third time-shortened state, which is a normal pattern B or a normal pattern C and a normal reach A. However, for the normal random number value in the second normal reserve memory area at the start of the ending period, no determination is made as to whether or not a specific effect can be executed, and even if the normal random number value is a specific normal random number value that results in a pre-determination when the game state is in the third time-shortened state, which is a normal pattern B or a normal pattern C and a normal reach A, the specific effect is not executed.

[0330] In this embodiment, the normal random number values ​​reserved in the special game state are replaced one after another, and even when normal game A is executed in the third time-saving state, normal reach A or normal reach B is executed, while specific effects can be executed appropriately based on the results of the advance determination of the normal random number values.

[0331] 18 is a flowchart showing the flow of the specific effect control process performed by the effect control means 640. In the specific effect control process, when the start point of the ending period of the consecutive hit special game state arrives (Y in step S100), a specific effect lottery is executed to determine whether or not the specific effect can be executed (step S102). Then, if the specific effect lottery is successful in determining that the specific effect can be executed (Y in step S104), 3 is set as the number X of the normal reserve memory area to be processed, and the normal reserve memory area 3 is set as the processing target (step S106).

[0332] Then, it is determined whether or not a normal random number value is reserved in the normal reserve memory area X (step S108), and if a normal random number value is reserved in the normal reserve memory area X (Y in step S108), it is determined whether or not the preliminary judgment result for the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area X-1 when the game state is in the third time-shortened state is normal reach A or normal reach B (step S110).

[0333] Then, if the result of the preliminary judgment regarding the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area X-1 is not normal reach A or normal reach B (Y in step S110), it is determined whether the result of the preliminary judgment regarding the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area X when the game state is the third time-saving state is normal pattern B or normal pattern C (step S112).

[0334] Then, if the result of the preliminary judgment regarding the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area X is normal pattern B or normal pattern C (Y in step S112), it is determined whether the result of the preliminary judgment regarding the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area X when the game state is in the third time-shortened state is normal reach B (step S114).

[0335] Then, when the pre-determination result about the normal random number value of the normal reserved memory area X is not normal reach B (Y in step S114), the execution of the specific effect is started (step S116).

[0336] On the other hand, if it is not the start of the ending period of the consecutive hit special game state (N in step S100), if the specific effect lottery does not result in the specific effect being executable (N in step S104), if no normal random number value is reserved in the normal reserve memory area X (N in step S108), if the preliminary judgment result for the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area X-1 is normal reach A or normal reach B (N in step S110), or if the preliminary judgment result for the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area X is normal reach B (N in step S114), the specific effect control processing is terminated.

[0337] Also, if the preliminary judgment result for the normal random number value in the normal reserve memory area X is not normal pattern B or normal pattern C (N in step S112), 1 is added to the number X of the normal reserve memory area to be processed, and the normal reserve memory area 4 is set as the processing target (step S118), and the process returns to step S108.

[0338] 4. Variations The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible, and modifications are introduced below. Note that the above-described embodiment and the various methods described below as modifications can be appropriately combined and adopted as a control method for realizing the present invention.

[0339] For example, if the start of the ending period is before one second has passed since the variable display of the normal pattern corresponding to the normal random number value in the normal hold memory area began, the execution of a specific effect is determined based on the results of a preliminary judgment when the game state is in the third time-saving state, even for the normal random number value in the second normal hold memory area at the start of the ending period, but if the start of the ending period is after one second has passed since the variable display of the normal pattern corresponding to the normal random number value in the normal hold memory area began, it is not necessary to determine whether a specific effect can be executed for the normal random number value in the second normal hold memory area at the start of the ending period.

[0340] In addition, the normal pattern variation time set in the normal pattern miss A may be set to be the same as the ending period, or may be set to be longer than the ending period. In this way, the normal lottery is always performed in the third time-saving state, even for the normal random number value in the second normal reserve memory area at the start of the ending period, so that it is possible to determine whether or not to execute a specific effect based on the pre-determination result when the game state is in the third time-saving state.

[0341] Also, the execution of the specific effect may be started when the conditions of steps S108 to S114 in FIG. 18 are satisfied without executing the specific effect lottery.

[0342] In addition, it is possible to execute a specific ordinary reach effect A, in which the effect time is set to 20 seconds, the same as the fluctuation time of ordinary reach A, and a specific ordinary reach effect B, in which the effect time is set to 10 seconds, the same as the fluctuation time of ordinary reach B. Even if the normal random number value that results from the preliminary determination is reserved as normal pattern B or normal pattern C and ordinary reach B, the execution of the specific effect may be decided.

[0343] In addition, the execution of the specific effect may be started from the timing when the display of the normal pattern begins to change for the normal random number value in the first normal pending memory area at the start of the ending period, or the execution of the specific effect may be started from the timing when the third time-saving state begins.

[0344] Also, instead of or in addition to the passage gate 48, a normal lottery is performed when a gaming ball enters, but a normal operation port may be provided through which the gaming ball is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0345] In addition, the specific effect may be executed in the second time-saving state in addition to the third time-saving state, or the specific effect may be executed in the second time-saving state instead of the third time-saving state.

[0346] Also, in one normal game B, when the first game ball enters the second start winning port 50 and the second special random number value for one game is stored in the second special reserve memory area, the second special random number value for one game is immediately read out from the second special reserve memory area and the first special lottery is performed, and when the second game ball enters the second start winning port 50 in one normal game B, the second special random number value for the next game is stored in the second special reserve memory area.

[0347] In this case, since a maximum of two second special random number values ​​are reserved in one normal game B, when one normal game B is played, a maximum of two special lotteries are held, and two consecutive special game states are played. Here, when the first consecutive special game state by one normal game B ends, in the second or third time-saving state, a special variation with a variation time of 0.1 seconds is determined as the variation type of the second special symbol in the special lottery, and the second consecutive special game state immediately begins.

[0348] Then, a jackpot game in the special game state of the first consecutive win after one normal game B and a jackpot game or a small jackpot game in the special game state of the second consecutive win after one normal game B are played consecutively, and the number of game balls acquired by the player in the special game state of the first consecutive win after one normal game B and the number of game balls acquired by the player in the special game state of the second consecutive win after one normal game B are cumulatively updated and displayed on the liquid crystal display 31, so that the special game state of the first consecutive win after one normal game B and the special game state of the second consecutive win after one normal game B are presented as if they were one special game state.

[0349] In addition, the second or third time-shortened state between the first special game state resulting from a single normal game B and the second special game state resulting from a single normal game B has the variation time of the second special symbol set to 0.1 seconds and ends in an extremely short period of time, thereby preventing the normal symbol B or normal symbol C from being won in the normal lottery in the second or third time-shortened state and the normal game B from being executed, and preventing the special game state from being repeated again.

[0350] In addition, second special reserve memory area 1 and second special reserve memory area 2 may be provided as memory areas for retaining the acquired second special random number values, and up to three second special random number values ​​may be retained in one normal game B.

[0351] Alternatively, the loaning and disbursement of game balls to players may be performed physically. In this case, an upper tray for storing game balls may be provided in the center of the lower part of the front frame 10, a payout outlet for disbursing game balls from the gaming machine to the player may be provided on the left side of the inner side of the upper tray, a supply port for supplying game balls from the upper tray to the launching device may be provided on the right side of the inner side of the upper tray, and a lower tray may be provided below the upper tray for storing surplus game balls when the upper tray cannot store all the game balls. [Explanation of symbols]

[0352] 2 outer frame, 4 playing area, 6 playing board, 7 inner frame, 8 glass unit, 10 front frame, 11 front frame opening, 12 front frame lamp, 14 speaker, 16 performance input device, 17 Ball count display, 18 Count button, 27 Cylinder lock

Claims

1. A gaming machine having a gaming area in which gaming media move, a first determination means for obtaining first game information when a game medium is detected in a first area provided in the game area, and for making a first game determination based on the obtained first game information; a pre-determination means for making a pre-determination before the first game determination is made based on the acquired first game information; a first game execution means for executing a first game in which a game medium can enter a second area provided in the game area when a result of the first game determination is a first result; a second determination means for obtaining second game information when a game medium is detected in the second area and performing a second game determination based on the obtained second game information; a second game execution means for executing a second game in which the game medium is allowed to enter a third area provided in the game area when the result of the second game determination is a second result; a game state control means for transitioning a game state from a first game state to a second game state under a predetermined condition; A performance control means for controlling the performance is provided, The performance control means A gaming machine characterized in that when a first game judgment based on first game information acquired in a first game state is made in a second game state, and the result of the preliminary judgment based on the first game information is a first result, a specific presentation is executed.

2. In claim 1, a storage means for storing the results of N preliminary determinations; The performance control means A gaming machine characterized in that it executes a specific effect when the first result, which is the result of a pre-determination, is included in the results of M pre-determinations acquired later among the results of N pre-determinations stored in the storage means at a predetermined time in the first gaming state.

Images