Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine for initially varying a second special symbol having a higher degree of advantage in a jackpot than a first special symbol in a privilege game state after the end of a jackpot game.SOLUTION: In a configuration in which a second reservation memory having a high degree of advantage at the time of a jackpot is preferentially consumed as compared with a first reservation memory, the second reservation memory can be stored by setting a privilege game state in which a ball entry opportunity to a second start port increases during a jackpot game, and variation can be performed from a second special symbol of the second reservation memory after the end of the jackpot game. According to such a configuration, there is no second holding storage after the end of the big winning game, and the variation of the first special symbol of the first holding storage whose advantageous degree is low is suppressed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 21

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and can be applied to a so-called "pin-ball type gaming machine." [Background technology]

[0002] It is widely known that gaming machines, such as conventional pachinko gaming machines, extract numerical data (for example, random number values) when a gaming ball enters a starting hole, and perform a judgment (lottery) based on the numerical data to determine whether or not a jackpot has been awarded, and if the result of the judgment (lottery) is a jackpot, a jackpot game is executed in which a large number of prize balls can be generated by continuously opening the jackpot entry hole over a predetermined number of rounds.

[0003] In such gaming machines, a variable display is executed based on numerical data extracted when the ball enters the starting hole, and the result of the win / loss judgment is displayed based on the final displayed content.These special patterns are equipped with two types of special patterns: a first special pattern that changes when the ball enters the first starting hole, which is always open, and a second special pattern that changes when the ball enters the second starting hole, which is built into a regular electric device.Under normal circumstances, the first special pattern is mainly displayed as a variable pattern, and once a jackpot is achieved, the opening extension function is activated, and the second special pattern is mainly displayed as a variable pattern.

[0004] In addition, some gaming machines of this type have a special area (a so-called "probability variable opening") built into the large prize opening, and when a game ball that enters the large prize opening during a jackpot game passes through the special area, after the jackpot game ends, the machine transitions to a bonus game such as a probability variable game in which the probability of a jackpot determination (lottery) changes from low to high (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0005] Gaming machines that can transition to a bonus game advantageous to the player when a gaming ball passes through a specific area (sometimes called a special area) within the jackpot opening as described above include a configuration in which an opening and closing member is provided within the jackpot opening so that the gaming ball can pass through to the specific area only when the opening and closing member is open, or a configuration in which two types of jackpot openings are provided: a first jackpot opening without a specific area, and a second jackpot opening with a specific area. These gaming machines are configured so that the gaming ball can pass through to the specific area only during a predetermined round out of the multiple rounds that make up the jackpot game.

[0006] In such a configuration, the first special symbol and the second special symbol have different probabilities of opening the large prize opening, allowing the game ball to pass through a specific area, during a specified round, and a configuration is widely adopted in which the probability is set higher for the second special symbol than for the first special symbol.As a result, once a jackpot is reached with the first special symbol and the extension function for opening is activated, the second special symbol will basically fluctuate, making it possible to create an extremely advantageous state compared to the normal game state. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-171345 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] As mentioned above, the first special symbol and the second special symbol have different advantages when a jackpot is hit, and when a jackpot is hit with the first special symbol and the post-jackpot extension function is activated, the ball is placed into the second starting hole built into the normal electric device, causing a jackpot with the second special symbol, resulting in a jackpot that is more advantageous with the second special symbol than with the first special symbol. However, when the post-jackpot extension function is activated with the first special symbol, there is no reserved memory for the second special symbol, and if the first special symbol is reserved, the first special symbol will change before the ball is placed into the second starting hole when the post-jackpot extension function is activated. In that case, if a jackpot is hit with the first special symbol, it may be a jackpot with a low advantage. For example, in the gaming machine described above, 50% of jackpots with the first special symbol transfer to special mode (jackpots that allow the game ball to pass through a specific area) and 50% transfer to normal mode (jackpots that prevent the game ball from passing through a specific area), and if a jackpot is hit with the second special symbol, it will be 100% special mode. After a jackpot is hit with the first special symbol and the game enters special mode, the first special symbol that is reserved and stored before the ball enters the second starting hole may change, and a jackpot that results in normal mode may be won.

[0009] In this way, after a jackpot with the first special symbol, there is no reserved memory of the second special symbol, so if there is a reserved memory of the first special symbol, the first special symbol will change, resulting in a jackpot with a low advantage with the first special symbol, and the player may feel that they have lost out because they were unable to change the second special symbol, which could reduce their interest.

[0010] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a gaming machine that can prevent a decrease in interest by varying a second special pattern that is more likely to result in a jackpot that is more advantageous to the player than the first special pattern in a specific gaming state after the end of a jackpot game. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The present invention comprises a first starting port provided in a game area and through which a ball can always be entered; a second starting port provided in the game area and built into a normal electric device which is changeable between an open state in which it is easier to enter a ball than the first starting port and a closed state in which it is more difficult to enter a ball than the first starting port; a first holding means capable of storing a plurality of random number values ​​generated as a result of a ball entering the first starting port; a second holding means capable of storing a plurality of random number values ​​generated as a result of a ball entering the second starting port; a special symbol setting means for setting a special symbol to be displayed as a fixed symbol after a variable display based on each of the random number values; and a setting means for setting a special symbol to be displayed as a fixed symbol based on each of the random number values ​​stored in the first holding means in the order in which they are generated. a first special symbol varying means for varyingly displaying the special symbol based on the random number values ​​stored in the second reserve means, and a second special symbol varying means for varyingly displaying the special symbol based on the random number values ​​stored in the second reserve means in the order of occurrence; a priority varying means for, when random number values ​​are stored in both the first reserve means and the second reserve means, giving priority to the variation of the special symbol related to the second special symbol varying means; and a special symbol setting means for setting a special symbol set in the game area in the event that the special symbol determined and displayed by the special symbol setting means is a special symbol that has been set in advance as a winning symbol. a normal symbol actuation port which triggers a normal symbol determination based on the passage of a game ball; a normal symbol determination means which executes the normal symbol determination; a normal symbol variation display means which executes a variation display of the normal symbol based on the result of the normal symbol determination; and the normal electric device which incorporates the second start port which changes from a closed state which makes it difficult for game balls to enter to an open state which makes it easy for game balls to enter when the result of the normal symbol determination is a normal symbol win; The special game state increases the chances of a game ball entering the normal electric device by improving the probability of winning and / or by extending the open time of the normal electric device when the normal symbol is hit, and the jackpot game means selects and generates one type of jackpot game from a plurality of preset jackpot games, and the jackpot game generated by the ball entering the second starting port is set to have a higher probability of being selected as a jackpot game with content more advantageous to the player than the jackpot game generated by the ball entering the first starting port,The gaming machine is characterized by a state transition means for transitioning the gaming state from the normal gaming state to the bonus gaming state during the jackpot game, and the special symbol cannot be changed during the jackpot game.

[0012] Here, the "first starting hole" may be provided in one play area, or multiple holes may be provided. In the case where multiple holes are provided, the first reserved memory is generated and stored regardless of which first starting hole the ball enters. In addition, the "second starting hole" may be provided in one or more of the game areas. In the case where more than one of the second starting holes is provided, a second reserved memory is generated and stored regardless of which second starting hole the ball enters. Furthermore, the "advantageous content" of jackpot games may not only be direct benefits such as the amount of prize balls that can be obtained or the occurrence of rare effects, but may also be advantages for the player (for example, a higher probability of winning a jackpot, a shorter time for the special symbols to change, etc.), as long as it results in a difference in benefits or advantages. Furthermore, the "prioritizing the change" of the pass / fail determination means means that regardless of whether or not there is a first reserved memory, if there is a second reserved memory, the second reserved memory will be consumed.

[0013] In addition, the period during jackpot play does not only refer to the time when the jackpot opening is open, but may also include the interval between winning the jackpot and the start of the jackpot play, the time when the jackpot is being displayed after multiple jackpot openings have been completed and the final jackpot opening has closed, and the time from when the final jackpot opening has been completed until the special pattern can be changed.

[0014] With this configuration, a bonus game state is entered during a jackpot game, increasing the chances of game balls entering the normal electric device. Therefore, the game can be stored in the second holding means during a jackpot game, and by storing the game balls in the second holding means, the second special symbol can be changed with priority even if it is stored in the first holding means after the jackpot ends. A jackpot game generated by a ball entering the second starting port is set with a higher probability of selecting a jackpot game with content more advantageous to the player than a jackpot game generated by a ball entering the first starting port. By preventing a low-value jackpot with the first special symbol during the bonus game state, a decrease in the player's interest can be prevented, and since the game can be played with the second special symbol, the player can look forward to a jackpot with content more advantageous to the player and increase their interest. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine 1 according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 2 of the pachinko machine 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. [Figure 4] 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko machine 1. FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing (A) the closed state of the variable probability opening 35 and (B) the open state of the variable probability opening 35 of the second large prize opening device 31 arranged on the game board 2. FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram illustrating some of the game specifications of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. [Figure 7] (A) A diagram showing the relationship between the jackpot pattern form of the first special pattern and the content of the jackpot game, and (B) a diagram showing the relationship between the jackpot game form of the second special pattern and the content of the jackpot game. [Figure 8] This is a diagram explaining the contents of the jackpot game. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of a main routine. [Figure 10] A flowchart showing the start winning processing. [Figure 11] 1 is a flowchart 1 showing the pass / fail determination process. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart 2 showing the pass / fail determination process. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart 3 showing the pass / fail determination process. [Figure 14] 4 is a flowchart 4 showing the pass / fail determination process. [Figure 15] 1 is a flowchart 1 showing the jackpot game processing. [Figure 16] 2 is a flowchart showing the jackpot game processing. [Figure 17] 3 is a flowchart showing the jackpot game processing. [Figure 18] 4 is a flowchart showing the jackpot game processing. [Figure 19] This is diagram 1 explaining the timing of the special rate flag. [Figure 20] This is diagram 2 explaining the timing of the special rate flag. [Figure 21] This is diagram 3 explaining the timing of the special rate flag. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the following embodiment, and various forms may be adopted as long as they fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the following examples and other examples may be combined as appropriate.

[0017] As shown in Fig. 1, the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment has a structure in which each component is held by an outer frame 51, which forms a vertically long fixed outer holding frame. An inner frame (not shown) is attached to the outer frame 51 via hinges 53 provided on the top and bottom of the left side of the outer frame 51 so that it can be opened and closed relative to the outer frame 51, and a front frame (glass frame) 52 is attached to the front of the inner frame so that it can be opened and closed relative to the inner frame. A glass plate 61 is detachably attached to the front frame 52. A game board 2 (Fig. 2) attached to the inner frame is disposed on the far side (rear side) of the glass plate 61.

[0018] Speakers 66 are provided on the upper left and right sides of the front frame 52, and the game sounds and alarm sounds emitted from the speakers 66 enhance the entertainment value of the game and alert the player. The front frame 52 also has a plurality of frame-side decorative lamps 65 that light up depending on the game status, enhancing the entertainment value of the game through this illumination. Furthermore, an upper tray 55 and a lower tray 63 are integrally provided at the bottom of the front frame 52, and a launch handle 64 is provided to the right of the lower tray 63. When the player rotates the launch handle 64 clockwise, it operates a launching device (not shown) to launch game balls supplied from the upper tray 55 toward the playing area 3 of the game board 2.

[0019] Prize balls and loan balls are paid out to the upper tray 55. The lower tray 63 is configured to receive prize balls that overflow from the upper tray 55, and is equipped with a ball removal lever (not shown) that ejects game balls in the lower tray 63. By operating this ball removal lever, the game balls accumulated in the lower tray 63 can be transferred to a separate box (dollar box).

[0020] The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is a so-called CR machine, and is adjacent to a prepaid card unit (CR unit) 56 that reads and writes prepaid cards. The pachinko machine 1 is provided with a settlement display device 94 (see FIG. 4) that has a loan button 57, a settlement button 58, and a balance display device 59. In addition, in the center of the upper tray 55, there are provided an effect button 67, a jog dial 68, and a decision switch 69 that can be operated by the player.

[0021] 2 is a front view of the game board 2 of the pachinko machine 1. The game board 2 is provided with a substantially circular game area 3 surrounded by guide rails 2a and 2b, and a large number of game nails (not shown) are planted in the game area 3. A center case 5 is disposed in the center of the game area 3, and an LCD screen of a performance symbol display device 6 (not shown in its entirety) is disposed in the center of the center case 5 so as to be visible from the front. The center case 5 is also provided with a warp entrance, warp passage, stage, etc. (not shown).

[0022] A first starting opening 11 is disposed directly below the center case 5, and a normal symbol activation gate 17 and a second starting opening 12 are disposed one above the other to the right of the center case 5. The first starting opening 11 is configured to allow game balls to enter at all times, while the second starting opening 12 is configured with a normal electric device 13 equipped with openable wings, and is configured to allow game balls to enter only when the wings are open. The normal symbol activation gate 17 is also configured to allow game balls to pass through at all times.

[0023] Furthermore, a second large prize opening device 31 equipped with a second large prize opening 15 is disposed at the lower right of center case 5 (below normal electric device 13), and a first large prize opening device 21 equipped with first large prize opening 14 is disposed below this second large prize opening device 31. First large prize opening device 21 is equipped with an opening / closing piece 22 that can be converted between an upright position that closes first large prize opening 14 and a tilted position that tilts forward from the upright position to open it, and by placing opening / closing piece 22 in the upright position, first large prize opening 14 is placed in a closed state where game balls cannot enter, and by placing opening / closing piece 22 in the tilted position, first large prize opening 14 is placed in an open state where game balls can enter. First large prize opening device 21 is equipped with first large prize opening solenoid 14b (see FIG. 4) that opens and closes opening piece 22, and by controlling the driving of first large prize opening solenoid 14b, first large prize opening 14 can be controlled to be in the closed state or the open state. Meanwhile, second large prize opening device 31 is equipped with opening / closing piece 32 that is operable to be in an upright position that closes second large prize opening 15 and a tilted position that tilts forward from the upright position to open it, and by setting opening / closing piece 32 in the upright position, second large prize opening 15 is in a closed state where game balls cannot enter, and by setting opening / closing piece 32 in the tilted position, second large prize opening 15 is in an open state where game balls can enter. Such a second large prize opening device 31 is equipped with a second large prize opening solenoid 15b (see Figure 4) that opens and closes the opening and closing piece 32, and by driving and controlling the second large prize opening solenoid 15b, the second large prize opening 15 can be controlled to be converted between the closed state and the open state.

[0024] Furthermore, four general winning holes 41 are provided to the left of the first starting hole 11. These general winning holes 41 are configured to always accept game balls. Furthermore, an outlet hole 16 is provided at the most downstream part of the game area 3, and if a game ball launched into the game area 3 does not enter any of the winning holes or starting holes, it will enter the outlet hole 16.

[0025] The gaming area 3 has a left flow area 3a where gaming balls flow down the left side of the central center case 5, and a right flow area 3b where gaming balls flow down the right side of the center case 5. When a gaming ball is hit from the right, the gaming ball that passes over the center case 5 flows down the right flow area 3b, and when a gaming ball is hit from the left, the gaming ball flows down the left flow area 3a. The right flow area 3b is provided with the normal symbol activation gate 17, second start opening 12, first large prize opening 14, and second large prize opening 15. Therefore, by aiming at the right flow area 3b (i.e., hitting from the right), the ball can enter these normal symbol activation gates 17, second start opening 12, first large prize opening 14, and second large prize opening 15. Meanwhile, the first starting hole 11, located directly below the center case 5, is designed so that game balls flowing down the left flow area 3a can enter it by using game pins planted in the game board 2. Therefore, by aiming at the left flow area 3a (so-called left hit), the ball can enter the first starting hole 11 or the four general winning holes 41. Because the left flow area 3a and the right flow area 3b are configured in this manner, the player can play by selectively hitting from the right or left, aiming at each starting hole 11, 12 or each large winning hole 14, 15. Note that the game pins make it difficult for game balls flowing down the right flow area 3b to enter the first starting hole 11 in this embodiment.

[0026] 5, the second large prize opening device 31 has a ball inlet area 33 into which gaming balls that have entered the second large prize opening 15 flow. Inside this ball inlet area 33, there are arranged an outlet 34 through which gaming balls that have entered the second large prize opening 15 flow out into the ball inlet area 33, a special probability opening 35 and normal openings 36, 36 into which gaming balls that have flowed out from the outlet 34 can enter, and shutter pieces 37, 37 that open and close the special probability opening 35. A second count switch 15a (see Figure 4) is arranged at the outlet 34 to count the game balls that have entered the second large winning port 15, a special chance port switch 35a (see Figure 4) is arranged inside the special chance port 35 to detect the game balls that have entered the special chance port 35, and a normal port switch 36a (see Figure 4) is arranged inside each normal port 36, 36 to detect the game balls that have entered the normal port 36, 36.

[0027] The shutter leaves 37, 37 are operable to be shifted between an upright position (FIG. 5B) that opens the variable probability opening 35 and a tilted position (FIG. 5A) that tilts inward from the upright position to close the variable probability opening 35, and are tilted between the upright position and the tilted position by a variable probability opening solenoid 37a (see FIG. 4). As shown in FIG. 5A, in the closed state where the shutter leaves 37, 37 are in the tilted position, a gaming ball flowing into the ball inlet area 33 from the outlet 34 cannot enter the variable probability opening 35 and is guided to the normal openings 36, 36 and enters. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5B, in the open state where the shutter leaves 37, 37 are in the upright position, a gaming ball flowing into the ball inlet area 33 from the outlet 34 is guided to the variable probability opening 35 and enters.

[0028] In this second large prize opening device 31, when a gaming ball enters the second large prize opening 15 while it is open, the gaming ball is detected by the second count switch 15a and flows out into the ball inflow area 33 via the outlet 34. When the shutter leaves 37, 37 are closed (FIG. 5(A)), the gaming ball enters the normal openings 36, 36 and is detected by the normal opening switch 36a. On the other hand, when the shutter leaves 37, 37 are open (FIG. 5(B)), the gaming ball that entered the ball inflow area 33 enters the special variable opening 35 and is detected by the special variable opening switch 35a. The second large prize opening device 31 is provided with a transparent plate (not shown) that covers the front of the ball inflow area 33, and is disposed so that the transparent plate is embedded in the game board 2 so that it is flush with the game board 2. This allows the player to see the course of the game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 15 until it enters the special prize opening 35 or the normal opening 36, 36.

[0029] Also, as shown in Figure 2, at the lower right of the game board 2, there are arranged a normal pattern display device 7 consisting of multiple LEDs, a normal pattern reserved number display device 8, a first special pattern reserved number display device 18, and a second special pattern reserved number display device 19, as well as a first special pattern display device 9 and a second special pattern display device 10 consisting of 7-segment display devices.

[0030] 3 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, an inner frame 70 to which the game board 2 is detachably attached is housed in an outer frame 51. From above, the inner frame 70 is provided with a ball tank 71, a tank rail 72, and a payout device 73. With this configuration, when game balls enter each of the winning holes provided on the game board 2, the game balls supplied from the ball tank 71 via the tank rail 72 are paid out as prize balls to the upper tray 55 by the payout device 73. Furthermore, when the loan button 57 and the settlement button 58 of the CR unit 56 are operated, loan balls are paid out by the payout device 73.

[0031] Also, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are arranged a main control device 80, a payout control device 81, a performance symbol control device 82, a sub-integrated control device 83, a launch control device 84 (see FIG. 4), and a power supply board 85. The main control device 80, the performance symbol control device 82, and the sub-integrated control device 83 are provided on the game board 2, while the payout control device 81, the launch control device 84 (see FIG. 4), and the power supply board 85 are provided on the inner frame 70. Note that although the launch control device 84 is not shown in FIG. 3, it is provided below the payout control device 81. Also, on the right side of the ball tank 71, there is provided an external connection terminal board 78, and signals (information) indicating the game status and game results are sent to the outside (such as a hall computer 87) via the external connection terminal board 78 (see FIG. 4). In addition, conventionally, two types of external connection terminal boards 78 have been used: one for the board (a terminal for outputting signals output from the game board side to the outside) and one for the frame (a terminal for outputting signals output from the frame side (front frame 52, inner frame 70, outer frame 51) to the outside).However, in this embodiment, signals are transmitted to the outside via a single external connection terminal board 78.

[0032] In addition, the main control device 80 of this embodiment is provided with a probability setting switch 95 and a setting change button 96 in operable positions. These probability setting switch 95 and setting change button 96 are used to select and set one of a plurality of preset setting values, and are operated by the manager of the gaming facility. Here, in this embodiment, six setting values ​​1 to 6 are preset, and each setting value 1 to 6 is assigned a different probability of winning a jackpot. Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, the probability of winning a jackpot for setting value 1 (low probability mode: 1 / 300, high probability mode: 1 / 30) is the lowest, followed by setting value 2 (low probability mode: 1 / 280, high probability mode: 1 / 28), setting value 3 (low probability mode: 1 / 260, high probability mode: 1 / 26), setting value 4 (low probability mode: 1 / 240, high probability mode: 1 / 24), and setting value 5 (low probability mode: 1 / 220, high probability mode: 1 / 22), with the highest probability of winning a jackpot for setting value 6 (low probability mode: 1 / 200, high probability mode: 1 / 20). Thus, the winning probability for setting value 6 is the most advantageous to the player, and the winning probability for setting value 1 is the least advantageous. The method for setting these setting values ​​1 to 6 will be explained below. The administrator inserts a predetermined key into the probability setting switch 95, rotates it in a predetermined direction (e.g., clockwise), and turns the probability setting switch 95 ON. Then, while pressing the RAM clear button (not shown) of the main control unit 80, the power is turned on, allowing the setting values ​​to be changed. In this state, the administrator can select one of the setting values ​​1 to 6 by pressing the setting change button 96. Specifically, each time the setting change button 96 is pressed, the first special symbol display device 9 sequentially displays the numbers "1" to "6." Then, by displaying the desired number on the first special symbol display device 9, one of the setting values ​​1 to 6 corresponding to that number is selected. After this selection, the administrator rotates the key inserted into the probability setting switch 95 to return it to its initial position, thereby confirming the selected setting value and setting the jackpot probability included in that setting value. In this way, the administrator of the gaming parlor can set one of the setting values ​​1 to 6 for each pachinko machine 1. In this embodiment, when a setting value is set, a signal indicating the set setting value is sent from the main control device 80 to the sub-integrated control device 83, and the sub-integrated control device 83 stores the setting value indicated in the received signal in RAM. As a result, the sub-integrated control device 83 retains the setting value stored in RAM until the power is turned off. Furthermore, by inserting the key into the probability setting switch 95 and rotating it in a predetermined direction to turn the probability setting switch 95 ON, and then turning on the power without operating the RAM clear button, the currently set setting value is displayed on the first special symbol display device 9. This operation allows the currently set setting value to be confirmed. Then, by rotating the key inserted into the probability setting switch 95 to return it to its initial position, the display of the setting value ends and the system transitions to normal processing. In this embodiment, the setting value is selected and set by operating the probability setting switch 95 and the setting change button 96, but this is not limited to this, and other operating means can also be applied. For example, the setting value may be selected and set by operating a dedicated button or knob. In addition, in this embodiment, the setting values ​​1 to 6 are displayed on the first special pattern display device 9, but this is not limited to this, and they may be displayed on other display devices. Alternatively, the setting value may be notified by voice or by the lighting pattern of a predetermined LED.

[0033] 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical wiring of the pachinko machine 1. This block diagram does not show relay boards or power supply boards that simply relay signals. Although detailed illustrations are omitted, the main control device 80, payout control device 81, performance symbol control device 82, and sub-integrated control device 83 each include a CPU, ROM, RAM, input ports, output ports, etc. The CPU of each of these control devices starts the programs stored in the respective ROMs in response to interrupt signals with a 2 ms cycle, and executes various controls.

[0034] The main control device 80 receives, via the game board relay terminal board 74, detection signals from the first start port switch 11a, which detects game balls that have entered the first start port 11, the second start port switch 12a, which detects game balls that have entered the second start port 12, the normal gate switch 17a, which detects game balls that have passed through the normal symbol activation gate 17, the first count switch 14a, which counts game balls that have entered the first large prize port 14, the second count switch 15a, which counts game balls that have entered the second large prize port 15, and the respective general prize port switches 41a, which detect game balls that have entered the general prize port 41. Furthermore, detection signals from the special prize port switch 35a and the normal port switch 36a, which are disposed inside the second large prize port device 31, are also input to the main control device 80 via the game board relay terminal board 74.

[0035] The main control device 80 operates according to a program stored in its ROM, generates various commands related to the progress of the game based on the above-mentioned detection signals, and outputs the commands to the payout control device 81 and the sub-integrated control device 83. In addition, the main control device 80 controls the display of the first special symbol display device 9, the second special symbol display device 10, and the normal symbol display device 7 via the symbol display device relay terminal board 75, and also controls the lighting of the first special symbol reserved number display device 18, the second special symbol reserved number display device 19, and the normal symbol reserved number display device 8. Furthermore, the main control device 80 is also connected to the first large prize opening solenoid 14b, the second large prize opening solenoid 15b, the special prize opening solenoid 37a, and the normal electric solenoid 13a via the game board relay terminal board 74. The main control device 80 controls the opening and closing of the first large prize opening 14 by driving and controlling the first large prize opening solenoid 14b, and the opening and closing of the second large prize opening 15 by driving and controlling the second large prize opening solenoid 15b. It also controls the opening and closing of the special prize opening 35 by driving and controlling the special prize opening solenoid 37a. Furthermore, it controls the opening and closing of the second start opening 12 by driving and controlling the normal electric solenoid 13a. The main control device 80 also outputs signals for managing symbol variations, jackpots, etc. to the hall computer 87 via the external connection terminal board 78.

[0036] The payout control device 81 is configured to be capable of two-way communication with the main control device 80, and drives the payout motor 90 to pay out prize balls in response to commands sent from the main control device 80. In this embodiment, a detection signal from a payout switch 91 for counting game balls paid out as prize balls is input to the main control device 80 and the payout control device 81, and the counting of prize balls is performed by both the main control device 80 and the payout control device 81.

[0037] Furthermore, signals from a full switch 92 and a ball out switch 93 are input to the payout control device 81. The full switch 92 detects when the lower tray 63 is full, and outputs a signal to the payout control device 81 upon detection. The ball out switch 93 detects when the amount of game balls stored in the ball tank (not shown) is low or there is no stored ball, and outputs a signal to the payout control device 81 upon detection. When the payout control device 81 receives signals from the full switch 92 and the ball out switch 93, it stops driving the payout motor 90 and stops the payout operation of prize balls. The full switch 92 and the ball out switch 93 are configured to continue outputting signals until the detected state is resolved, and the payout control device 81 resumes driving the payout motor 90 upon stopping the signal input.

[0038] The payout control device 81 can communicate with the CR unit 56 via the CR unit terminal board 79, and drives the payout motor 90 to pay out loaned balls in response to a loan command. The CR unit terminal board 79 is also connected to the settlement display device 94 for two-way communication, and receives signals from the ball loan switch and settlement switch provided on the settlement display device 94. The ball loan switch detects operation of the loan button 57 and outputs a signal, and the settlement switch detects operation of the settlement button 58 and outputs a signal. The payout control device 81 is also connected to the launch control device 84, and sends a launch stop command to the launch control device 84 at a predetermined timing.

[0039] The launch control device 84 controls the launch motor 97 to launch gaming balls into the gaming area 3. In addition to the payout control device 81 described above, the launch control device 84 also receives a rotation amount signal from the launch handle 64, a touch signal from the touch switch 98, and a launch stop signal from the launch stop switch 99. The rotation amount signal is output when the player rotates the launch handle 64, the touch signal is output when the player touches the launch handle 64, and the launch stop signal is output when the player presses the launch stop switch 99. The launch control device 84 controls so that gaming balls are not launched if a touch signal is not input, and also controls so that gaming balls are not launched when a launch stop signal is input, regardless of the operation of the launch handle 64.

[0040] The sub-integrated control device 83 receives data and commands sent from the main control device 80, sorts them into data for effect display control, sound control, and lamp control, sends the effect display control commands, etc. to the effect pattern control device 82, and distributes the sound control and lamp control data to each control section included in itself (functional components serving as sound control devices and lamp control devices).The functional section serving as a sound control device then operates a sound LSI based on the sound control data to control the output of sound from the speaker 66, and the functional section serving as a lamp control device then operates a lamp driver based on the lamp control data to control the emission of various LEDs and lamps 65.

[0041] Furthermore, switches that detect the operation of the effect button 67, jog dial 68, and decision switch 69 are connected to the sub-integrated control device 83, and when each switch detects an operation by the player, the corresponding signal is input. The jog dial 68 may be configured to be connected to the effect symbol control device 82.

[0042] The effect symbol control device 82 performs control based on the data and commands sent from the sub-integrated control device 83 (those sent from the main control device 80 and those generated by the sub-integrated control device 83 based on input from the main control device 80 and input from effect buttons, etc.), and displays effect images such as special effect symbols on the screen of the effect symbol display device 6. The sub-integrated control device 83 and the main control device 80 are connected via a one-way communication circuit from the main control device 80 to the sub-integrated control device 83 via a performance relay terminal board, and the sub-integrated control device 83 and effect symbol control device 82 are connected via a one-way communication circuit from the sub-integrated control device 83 to the effect symbol control device 82.

[0043] The power supply board (not shown) is configured as a DC power supply that generates DC voltage using power supplied from an external AC power source, and supplies power to each component of the pachinko machine 1 by operating a power switch provided on the power supply board. This power supply board is equipped with a backup power supply consisting of a capacitor and other components, and stores power in the backup power supply while power is being supplied from the AC power source. This allows power to be supplied to the main control device 80 (e.g., the RAM of the main control device 80) during a power outage, and data in the RAM of the main control device 80 is retained for a certain period of time even after power supply from the AC power source is stopped. The backup power supply may be provided in the main control device 80 or in a device other than the power supply board. In this case, the power supply board outputs a supply signal to the device equipped with the backup power source while power is being supplied from the AC power source, and outputs a power outage signal to the device equipped with the backup power source when power supply is stopped.

[0044] Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment will be described. When a gaming ball launched into the gaming area 3 flows down the left flow area 3a and enters the first starting port 11 (the first starting port switch 11a in Fig. 4 detects the gaming ball), the first special pattern display device 9 starts to change the first special pattern, and the random number extracted as a result of the ball entering the game is judged as a win or a loss. Then, when a predetermined change time has elapsed since the start of the change, the first special pattern is displayed in a frozen state, and the result of this judgment is announced. Here, the random number extracted when the ball enters the first starting hole 11 is stored as a first reserved memory, as will be described later. Up to four first reserved memories can be stored, and the number of first reserved memories (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved memory number) is represented by the number of lights on the first special symbol reserved number display device 18. By consuming the first reserved memories stored in this way, the above-mentioned win / loss judgment and the variation of the first special symbol are executed. Note that the first reserved memory number indicates the number of first reserved memories that have not been consumed.

[0045] On the other hand, when a gaming ball launched into the gaming area 3 flows down the right flow area 3b and passes through the normal symbol activation gate 17 (the normal gate switch 17a in Figure 4 detects the gaming ball), the normal symbol display device 7 starts to display a varying normal symbol, and a random number extracted due to the ball entering the game is judged as a win or loss. Then, if the normal symbol that stops after a predetermined time from the start of the variation is in a predetermined winning state, the wing pieces of the normal electric device 13 are driven, allowing the gaming ball to enter the second starting hole 12. Here, with one winning normal symbol, the wing pieces of the normal electric device 13 open once for 0.2 seconds in the non-opening extension mode described below, and open three times for 1 second in the open extension mode described below.

[0046] When a gaming ball enters this second starting hole 12 (the second starting hole switch 12a in FIG. 4 detects the gaming ball), the second special symbol display device 10 starts to vary the second special symbol, and the random number extracted as a result of the ball entering the hole is judged as a win or a loss. Then, when a predetermined variation time has elapsed since the start of variation, the second special symbol is displayed in a frozen state, and the result of this judgment is announced. Here, the random number extracted when the ball enters the second starting hole 12 is stored as a second reserved memory, as will be described later. Up to four second reserved memories can be stored, and the number of stored second reserved memories (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved memory number) is represented by the number of lights on the second special symbol reserved number display device 19. By consuming the second reserved memories stored in this way, the above-mentioned win / loss judgment and variation of the second special symbol are executed. Note that the second reserved memory number indicates the number of second reserved memories that have not been consumed.

[0047] While the first special symbol and the second special symbol are fluctuating, the fluctuation of the special symbol linked to the fluctuation of each special symbol is displayed on the symbol display device 6. By displaying the fluctuation of the special symbol on the symbol display device 6 and the display of the stopping mode of the special symbol, the player can know the fluctuation of each special symbol and the result of the hit / miss judgment (big hit, small hit, or miss). Here, in this embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are executed with priority to change, regardless of the order in which the balls enter the first starting hole 11 and the second starting hole 12. In other words, if there is an unconsumed second reserved memory (if the number of second reserved memories is one or more), the second reserved memory is consumed and the change of the second special symbol begins, regardless of whether there is an unconsumed first reserved memory. And, only when there is no unconsumed second reserved memory, the first reserved memory is consumed and the change of the first special symbol begins.

[0048] If the result of the hit / miss determination executed by consuming the first reserved memory is a jackpot, the first special symbol display device 9 stops the first special symbol in a predetermined jackpot symbol pattern, and the effect symbol display device 6 stops and displays the special effect symbol in a jackpot symbol pattern. This confirms the jackpot. Similarly, if the result of the hit / miss determination executed by consuming the second reserved memory is a jackpot, the second special symbol display device 10 stops the second special symbol in a predetermined jackpot symbol pattern, and the effect symbol display device 6 stops and displays the special effect symbol in a jackpot symbol pattern. This confirms the jackpot. Once a jackpot is confirmed in this way, a jackpot game is executed in which the first large prize opening 14 and the second large prize opening 15 are opened and closed. Note that the jackpot game is controlled and executed according to the jackpot game pattern determined by the hit / miss determination process, as described below. On the other hand, if the result of the hit / miss determination is a small hit, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped in a predetermined small hit symbol pattern, and the special effect symbol is displayed in a small hit symbol pattern on the effect symbol display device 6. This confirms the small hit, and a small hit game is executed in which the first large prize opening 14 is opened and closed once. This small hit game involves opening the first large prize opening 14 once for 1.5 seconds. In this type of small hit game, it is more difficult to win prize balls than in the big hit game described above.

[0049] Next, the specifications of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment will be explained. Below, the number of prize balls, the probability of winning a big win, the probability of winning a small win, the probability of winning a normal symbol, and each game state will be explained. As other specifications are the same as those of the conventional machine, explanations will be omitted.

[0050] As shown in Fig. 6, a set number of prize balls are paid out when a ball lands in each of the starting holes 11, 12, each of the major prize holes 14, 15, and the general prize hole 41. Specifically, three prize balls are paid out for each ball that lands in the first starting hole 11, five prize balls are paid out for each ball that lands in the second starting hole 12, 13 prize balls are paid out for each ball that lands in the first major prize hole 14, 13 prize balls are paid out for each ball that lands in the second major prize hole 15, and five prize balls are paid out for each ball that lands in the general prize hole 41.

[0051] In addition, the configuration of this embodiment has the function of increasing the probability of winning a jackpot through the hit / miss judgment, and is configured as a so-called probability fluctuation machine. That is, the game according to this configuration is roughly divided into a game in which the first major prize opening 14 and the second major prize opening 15 are kept closed, and the above-mentioned jackpot game in which the first major prize opening 14 and the second major prize opening 15 are opened. In the game in which the major prize openings 14, 15 are kept closed, a normal game state and a probability variable game state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than in the normal game state are set, and after the jackpot game ends, the machine transitions to either the normal game state or the probability variable game state. The normal game state is a game state consisting of "low probability mode / non-time-shortening mode / non-open extension mode," and the special game state is a game state consisting of "high probability mode / time-shortening mode / open extension mode."

[0052] In the low probability mode, a preset low probability of winning is set as valid, and a hit / miss judgment is made as to whether or not a jackpot has occurred, and in the high probability mode, a high probability of winning, which is higher than the low probability of winning, is set as valid, and a hit / miss judgment is made. In other words, the low probability of winning and the high probability of winning are set as the jackpot winning probability for determining whether or not a jackpot has occurred, and the low probability of winning is used in the hit / miss judgment in the normal game state (low probability mode), and the high probability of winning is used in the hit / miss judgment in the variable probability game state (high probability mode). In this embodiment, a low probability of winning and a high probability of winning are respectively defined for each of the aforementioned setting values ​​1 to 6. In the low probability mode, the low probability of winning defined by the set setting values ​​1 to 6 is valid, while in the high probability mode, the high probability of winning defined by the set setting values ​​1 to 6 is valid. Specifically, when setting value 1 is set, a win / loss determination is made in the low probability mode with a low win probability of 1 / 300 valid, and in the high probability mode with a high win probability of 1 / 30 valid. Furthermore, when setting value 2 is set, a win / loss determination is made in the low probability mode with a low win probability of 1 / 280 valid, and in the high probability mode with a high win probability of 1 / 28 valid. Furthermore, when setting value 3 is set, a win / loss determination is made in the low probability mode with a low win probability of 1 / 260 valid, and in the high probability mode with a high win probability of 1 / 26 valid. Also, when setting value 4 is set, the low probability mode determines whether the winning probability is 1 / 240, and the high probability mode determines whether the winning probability is 1 / 24. Also, when setting value 5 is set, the low probability mode determines whether the winning probability is 1 / 220, and the high probability mode determines whether the winning probability is 1 / 22. Also, when setting value 6 is set, the low probability mode determines whether the winning probability is 1 / 200, and the high probability mode determines whether the winning probability is 1 / 20. These low and high winning probabilities are the same whether the first reserved memory is consumed or the second reserved memory is consumed. Furthermore, whether the mode will be low probability mode or high probability mode after a jackpot game is played is determined based on a random number (a random number for determining the first and second jackpot patterns described below) extracted by the ball entering the first starting hole 11 and the second starting hole 12, as described below.

[0053] In the time-saving mode, the time for changing the first special symbol and the second special symbol is made shorter than that in the non-time-saving mode. Furthermore, in the time-saving mode, the time for changing the normal symbol is also made shorter than that in the non-time-saving mode.

[0054] In the extended opening mode, the probability of winning a normal symbol is higher than in the non-extended opening mode, and the opening time of the second starting port 12 is extended compared to the non-extended opening mode. Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, the probability of winning a normal symbol is 1 / 10 in the non-extended opening mode, while the probability of winning is 9 / 10 in the extended opening mode. The opening operation of the second starting port 12 is performed once for about 0.2 seconds in the non-extended opening mode, and three times for about 1 second in the extended opening mode.

[0055] This special probability game state is initiated after a jackpot game when a ball enters the special probability game port 35 provided in the second special prize entry device 31 during the jackpot game. The special probability game state ends when the total number of times the first special symbol changes and the second special symbol changes (hereinafter referred to as the "special symbol change count") reaches a predetermined upper limit, or when either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is displayed in the jackpot symbol mode described below (the jackpot game begins). If the number of times the special symbol changes during the special probability game state reaches the upper limit (e.g., 100 times), the game transitions to the normal game state. If the ball does not enter the special probability game port 35 during the jackpot game, the game transitions to the normal game state after the jackpot game.

[0056] In addition, in this embodiment, the small win probability is set to a uniform value (for example, 1 / 60) for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Therefore, the small win probability is the same regardless of the setting values ​​1 to 6 or the game state (normal game state, probability change game state). In this embodiment, the small win probability is set to a uniform value, but it is not limited to this. Similarly to the big win probability, a plurality of different small win probabilities may be set to each setting value, and the small win probability of the set setting value may be valid.

[0057] Next, the jackpot pattern modes of the first and second special symbols will be described with reference to FIG. As described above, the first special symbol is variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 9 based on the consumption of the first reserved memory, and after the lapse of the variation time, is statically displayed in a symbol form that indicates the result of the win / loss judgment. Similarly, the second special symbol is variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 10 based on the consumption of the second reserved memory, and after the lapse of the variation time, is statically displayed in a symbol form that indicates the result of the win / loss judgment. These first and second special symbols are used to determine whether a win, small win, or loss is determined based on the win / loss judgment, so they are statically displayed in a symbol form that indicates a big win (jackpot symbol form), a symbol form that indicates a small win (small win symbol form), or a symbol form that indicates a loss (loss symbol form), thereby confirming a big win, small win, or loss.

[0058] Ten types of jackpot pattern forms are predetermined for each of the first special pattern and the second special pattern, and when a jackpot is determined by the hit / miss determination, one of the jackpot pattern forms is determined according to the random numbers for determining the jackpot pattern stored in the first and second reserved memories.

[0059] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 7(A), the first special symbol is assigned to the first to tenth jackpot symbol patterns, and each jackpot symbol pattern is assigned to a jackpot game mode that determines the opening mode of each of the large prize winning holes 14, 15 and the opening mode of the variable probability hole 35 in the jackpot game. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 7(B), the second special symbol is assigned to the eleventh to twentieth jackpot symbol patterns, and like the first special symbol, each jackpot symbol pattern is assigned to a jackpot game mode. In this embodiment, three types of jackpot game modes are preset, and one of the jackpot game modes is selected according to the 1st to 10th jackpot symbol modes or the 11th to 20th jackpot symbol modes. The three types of jackpot game modes are one type of short type jackpot game mode in which the first major winning slot 14 has a small number of opening rounds (hereinafter referred to as the short type jackpot game mode), and two types of long type jackpot game modes in which the first major winning slot 14 has a large number of opening rounds (hereinafter referred to as the first long type jackpot game mode and the second long type jackpot game mode).

[0060] The first to fourth jackpot symbol patterns selected by the first special symbol are assigned the short type jackpot game mode, the fifth to seventh jackpot symbol patterns are assigned the first long type jackpot symbol pattern, and the eighth to tenth jackpot symbol patterns are assigned the second long type jackpot game mode. In other words, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in any of the first to fourth jackpot symbol patterns and confirmed, a jackpot game is executed according to the short type jackpot game mode, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in any of the fifth to seventh jackpot symbol patterns and confirmed, a jackpot game is executed according to the first long type jackpot game mode, and when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in any of the eighth to tenth jackpot symbol patterns and confirmed, a jackpot game is executed according to the second long type jackpot game mode. The selection of the first to tenth jackpot symbol patterns is performed according to a predetermined selection probability. That is, when a jackpot is determined by a lottery based on the consumption of the first reserved memory, one of the first to tenth jackpot symbol patterns is selected according to the selection probability, and after the first special symbol is changed, the selected one jackpot symbol pattern is stopped and displayed as a fixed pattern. In this embodiment, the selection probability of the first to fourth jackpot symbol patterns is set to 8 / 20, the selection probability of the fifth to seventh jackpot symbol patterns is set to 2 / 20, and the selection probability of the eighth to tenth jackpot symbol patterns is set to 10 / 20.

[0061] On the other hand, the 11th to 14th jackpot symbol patterns selected by the second special symbol are assigned the short type jackpot game mode, the 15th to 17th jackpot symbol patterns are assigned the first long type jackpot game mode, and the 17th to 20th jackpot symbol patterns are assigned the second long type jackpot game mode. In other words, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in any of the 11th to 14th jackpot symbol patterns and fixed, the jackpot game is executed according to the short type jackpot game mode, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in any of the 15th to 17th jackpot symbol patterns and fixed, the jackpot game is executed according to the first long type jackpot game mode, and when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in any of the 18th to 20th jackpot symbol patterns and fixed, the jackpot game is executed according to the second long type jackpot game mode. The selection of the 11th to 20th jackpot symbol patterns is performed according to a predetermined selection probability. That is, when a jackpot is determined by a lottery based on the consumption of the second reserved memory, one of the 11th to 20th jackpot symbol patterns is selected according to the selection probability, and after the second special symbol is changed, the selected one jackpot symbol pattern is stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the selection probability of the 11th to 4th jackpot symbol patterns is set to 2 / 20, the selection probability of the 15th to 17th jackpot symbol patterns is set to 4 / 20, and the selection probability of the 18th to 20th jackpot symbol patterns is set to 14 / 20.

[0062] Next, the three types of big win game modes will be explained with reference to FIG. As mentioned above, each jackpot game mode is set with an opening mode for the first large prize winning opening 14 and the second large prize winning opening 15, and an opening mode for the variable probability opening 35. When a jackpot is hit, the jackpot game is executed according to the jackpot game mode assigned to the selected jackpot symbol mode. Note that the first large prize winning opening 14, the second large prize winning opening 15, and the variable probability opening 35 are normally kept closed, so that game balls cannot enter them.

[0063] The short-type jackpot game mode described above involves four repeated opening rounds to open the first large prize opening 14, followed by one opening round to open the second large prize opening 15, for a total of five opening rounds. Then, in time with the fifth opening round to open the second large prize opening 15, the first probability variable opening operation to open the probability variable opening 35 is executed. Here, the opening patterns for the first to fourth opening rounds are set as a normal opening pattern in which the first large prize opening 14 starts opening and closes after 30 seconds have elapsed since the opening started or after 10 balls have entered the first large prize opening 14. On the other hand, the opening pattern for the fifth opening round is set as a short-time opening pattern in which the second large prize opening 15 starts opening and closes after 0.2 seconds have elapsed since the opening started or after 10 balls have entered the second large prize opening 15. Furthermore, the first probability variable opening operation of the probability variable opening 35 opens the probability variable opening 35 in conjunction with the opening start of the second large prize opening 15 and closes after 0.5 seconds have elapsed since the opening start. In this fifth opening round, because the opening time of the second large prize opening 15 is extremely short, it is almost impossible for balls to enter the second large prize opening 15. Even if a ball does enter the probability variable opening 35, it is extremely difficult for the ball to enter the probability variable opening 35 due to the short opening time of the probability variable opening 35. Therefore, in a jackpot game in the short type jackpot game mode, it is substantially impossible for the ball to enter the probability variable hole 35 (in other words, the probability of the ball entering the probability variable hole 35 is low).

[0064] In addition, the first long type jackpot game mode described above involves repeating an opening round to open the first large prize opening 14 four times, followed by one opening round to open the second large prize opening 15, followed by five opening rounds to open the first large prize opening 14, for a total of 10 opening rounds. Then, in conjunction with the fifth opening round to open the second large prize opening 15, a first probability variable opening operation to open the probability variable opening 35 is executed. Here, the opening patterns for the first through fourth and sixth through tenth opening rounds are set to the same normal opening pattern as in the short-type jackpot game mode described above. Meanwhile, the opening pattern for the fifth opening round is set to the same short-time opening pattern as in the short-type jackpot game mode described above. Furthermore, the first variable probability opening operation is the same as in the short-type jackpot game mode described above. That is, in a jackpot game in the first long-type jackpot game mode, the first through fifth opening rounds are executed sequentially, the same as in the short-type jackpot game mode, followed by the sixth through tenth opening rounds that open the first large prize opening 14. In this first long-type jackpot game mode, since the first large prize opening opening 14 has more opening rounds, more prize balls can be won compared to the short-type jackpot game mode. However, like the short-type jackpot game mode, balls cannot actually enter the variable probability opening 35.

[0065] In addition, the second long type jackpot game mode described above involves repeating an opening round to open the first large prize opening 14 four times, followed by one opening round to open the second large prize opening 15, followed by five opening rounds to open the first large prize opening 14, for a total of 10 opening rounds. Then, in conjunction with the fifth opening round to open the second large prize opening 15, a second probability variable opening operation to open the probability variable opening 35 is executed. Here, the opening patterns for the first to fourth and sixth to tenth opening rounds are set to the same normal opening pattern as in the short-type jackpot game mode. Meanwhile, the opening pattern for the fifth opening round is set to a normal opening pattern in which the second large prize opening 15 starts opening and closes 30 seconds after the opening starts or when 10 balls enter the second large prize opening 15. Furthermore, the second special prize opening opening operation is an operation in which, upon the start of opening of the second large prize opening 15, the special prize opening 35 is opened for 0.5 seconds and closed for 0.2 seconds, repeatedly, and ends when a predetermined time (e.g., 1 second) has elapsed since the second large prize opening 15 closed. In a jackpot game based on this second long-type jackpot game mode, game balls that enter the second large prize opening 15 in the fifth opening round are likely to enter the special prize opening 35 (in other words, the probability of balls entering the special prize opening 35 is high).

[0066] In this way, when a jackpot game is executed in accordance with the short type jackpot game mode or the first long type jackpot game mode, it is virtually impossible for the ball to enter the variable probability gate 35 during the jackpot game, so the game transitions to the normal game mode after the jackpot game. On the other hand, when a jackpot game is executed in accordance with the second long type jackpot game mode, it is possible for the ball to enter the variable probability gate 35 during the jackpot game, so the game transitions to the variable probability game mode after the jackpot game. Note that even in the second long type jackpot game mode, there may be cases where the ball cannot enter the variable probability gate 35, so in this case, the game transitions to the normal game mode after the jackpot game. As mentioned above, these short-type jackpot game modes, first long-type jackpot game modes, and second long-type jackpot game modes are assigned to the first through twentieth jackpot symbol modes. Therefore, when a jackpot is achieved by consuming the second reserved memory, the probability of a jackpot game in the second long-type jackpot game mode being executed is higher than when the first reserved memory is consumed, and therefore the probability of transitioning to a high probability variable game state after the jackpot game is high. Furthermore, in the high probability variable game state, since the open extension mode is in effect, the second reserved memory is more likely to accumulate, and this second reserved memory is preferentially consumed. Therefore, once the high probability variable game state is reached, the probability of transitioning back to the high probability variable game state via a jackpot game is high, and by repeatedly switching between the high probability variable game state and the jackpot game, the player can win a large number of prize balls.

[0067] Next, the processing of various programs executed by the main control device 80 will be described. Figure 9 shows a flowchart of the main routine. The main routine consists of the main process from S10 to S80 and the residual process of S85, which is repeated as long as time permits within the time remaining after executing the main process, and is executed periodically by a hardware interrupt every 2 ms. When a hardware interrupt is executed by the microcomputer, it is first determined whether or not it is a normal interrupt (S10). This determination process is performed by determining whether or not a value in a predetermined area of ​​RAM (memory) is equal to a predetermined value, and is intended to determine whether or not normal processing may be executed when the processing executed by the microcomputer transitions to the main process.

[0068] If a negative judgment is made in S10 (i.e., it is judged that the interrupt is not normal) (S10: No), the initial setting (S15) is executed, and the remaining process (S85) is performed. In this initial setting, for example, predetermined values ​​are written to predetermined areas of the RAM, and initial values ​​are written to the working area of ​​the RAM, such as setting the first and second special symbols as initial symbols. On the other hand, if a positive judgment is made in S10 (i.e., it is judged to be a normal interrupt) (S10: Yes), each output process (S80) such as update process of the initial value random number (S20), update process of the random number for determining a jackpot (S25), update process of the random number for determining the first jackpot pattern (S30), update process of the random number for determining the second jackpot pattern (S35), update process of the random number for determining the small jackpot pattern (S40), update process of the random number for determining a win (S45), update process of the random number for reaching a win (S50), update process of the random number for determining a variation pattern (S55), win confirmation process (S60), win / lose determination process (S65), special game process (S70), fraud monitoring process (S75), image output process, etc. is performed, and the update process of the initial value random number (S85) is looped within the remaining time until the next interrupt signal is input.

[0069] Next, the start winning process executed by the main control device 80 will be described with reference to the flowchart of Figure 10. This start winning process is one of the subroutines called in the winning confirmation process (S60) of the main routine described above. In the start winning process, in S100, it is determined whether the first start port switch 11a has detected a game ball. If the determination is negative (S100: No), the process proceeds to S120, and if the determination is positive (S100: Yes), the process proceeds to S105. In S105, it is determined whether the number of first reserved memories has reached an upper limit (for example, 4). If the determination is positive (S105: Yes), the process proceeds to S120, and if the determination is negative (S105: No), the process proceeds to S110.

[0070] In S110, a first extracted random number reserve storage process is executed. In this first extracted random number reserve storage process, a random number for determining a first jackpot, a random number for determining a first jackpot symbol, a random number for reaching a reach, a random number for determining a variation pattern, etc. are extracted and stored as a first reserved memory, and a first reserved number counter indicating the first reserved memory number is incremented by 1, and the necessary process is performed to light up the first special symbol reserved number display device 18 according to the information of the first reserved number counter.

[0071] In S120, it is determined whether the second start port switch 12a has detected a game ball. If the determination is negative (S120: No), the start winning process is terminated, and if the determination is positive (S120: Yes), the process proceeds to S125. In S125, it is determined whether the number of second reserved memories has reached an upper limit (for example, 4). If the determination is positive (S125: Yes), the start winning process is terminated, and if the determination is negative (S125: No), the process proceeds to S130.

[0072] In S130, a second extracted random number reserve storage process is executed. In this second extracted random number reserve storage process, a random number for determining a second jackpot, a random number for determining a second jackpot symbol, a random number for reaching a reach, a random number for determining a variation pattern, etc. are extracted and stored as second reserved memory, and 1 is added to a second reserved number counter indicating the second reserved memory number, and the process required to light up the second special symbol reserved number display device 19 according to the information of the second reserved number counter is performed.

[0073] Next, the winning / loose determination process executed by the main control device 80 will be described using the flowcharts of Figures 11 to 14. This winning / loose determination process is one of the subroutines called in the winning / loose determination process (S65) of the main routine described above.

[0074] In the win / loss determination process, as shown in FIG. 10, it is determined whether the first large prize slot device 21 or the second large prize slot device 31 is in operation (i.e., whether a big win game or a small win game is being played) (S150). If the determination is affirmative (S150: Yes), the win / loss determination process is terminated, and if the determination is negative (S150: No), the process proceeds to S155. In S155, it is determined whether the first special symbol or the second special symbol is fluctuating. If the determination is affirmative (S155: Yes), the process proceeds to S300 in FIG. 13, and if the determination is negative (S155: No), the process proceeds to S160. In S160, it is determined whether the first special symbol or the second special symbol is being displayed as a fixed symbol. If the determination is affirmative (S160: Yes), the process proceeds to S350 in FIG. 14, and if the determination is negative (S160: No), the process proceeds to S165.

[0075] In S165, it is determined whether there is any unconsumed second reserved memory, and if the determination is affirmative (S165: Yes), proceed to S170, and if the determination is negative (S165: No), proceed to S175. In S170, the number of second reserved memories is decremented, and the oldest unconsumed second reserved memory is selected, and the information stored in that second reserved memory (numeric data such as random numbers) is moved to a predetermined buffer for determining a second jackpot. In this way, the second reserved memory is consumed. After this S170, proceed to S185.

[0076] In S175, it is determined whether there is an unconsumed first reserved memory, and if the determination is affirmative (S175: Yes), the process proceeds to S180, and if the determination is negative (S175: No), the hit / miss determination process is terminated. In S180, the number of first reserved memories is decremented, the oldest unconsumed first reserved memory is selected, and the information stored in that first reserved memory (numeric data such as random numbers) is moved to a specified buffer for first jackpot determination. In this way, the first reserved memory is consumed. After S180, the process proceeds to S185. In this embodiment, the second reserved memory is prioritized over the first reserved memory in the judgment of whether or not the first reserved memory is the target of the judgment of whether or not the first reserved memory is the target of the judgment of whether or not the first reserved memory is the target of the judgment of whether or not the first reserved memory is the target of the judgment of whether or not the second ...

[0077] In S185, it is determined whether the probability variable flag is 1 or not, and if the determination is affirmative (S185: Yes), the process proceeds to S190, and if the determination is negative (S185: No), the process proceeds to S195. Here, probability variable flag = 1 indicates the probability variable game state ("high probability mode / time-shortening mode / open extension mode"), and probability variable flag = 0 indicates the normal game state ("low probability mode / non-time-shortening mode / non-open extension mode").

[0078] In S190, a winning / losing determination table (probability variable table) corresponding to the set values ​​1 to 6 and the high probability mode is selected, and based on the selected probability variable table, the random number for determining a winning jackpot that has been moved to the buffer for determining a winning jackpot is determined to be a winning jackpot or not. Here, in this embodiment, based on the selected probability variable table, it is also determined whether the random number for determining a winning jackpot is a small winning jackpot or not. Furthermore, in S190, the remaining number of winning / losing determinations that can be performed in the probability variable game state (probability variable flag = 1) (the remaining number until the upper limit of the number of special pattern variations is reached) is decremented. This remaining number (hereinafter referred to as the remaining number of special pattern variations) is decremented both when the first reserved memory is consumed and when the second reserved memory is consumed. After the processing of S190, the process proceeds to S200.

[0079] On the other hand, in S195, a winning / losing determination table (normal table) corresponding to the set setting values ​​1 to 6 and the low probability mode is selected, and based on the selected normal table, the random number for jackpot determination moved to the buffer for jackpot determination is determined to be a jackpot or not. Here, in this embodiment, based on the selected normal table, it is also determined whether the random number for jackpot determination is a small win or not. After processing this S195, the process proceeds to S200 in FIG. 12.

[0080] In S200, it is determined whether or not there is a jackpot based on the determination result of S190 or S195, and if the determination is affirmative (S200: Yes), the process proceeds to S205, and if the determination is negative (S200: No), the process proceeds to S220.

[0081] In S205, the jackpot symbol pattern of the special symbol is determined based on the random number for determining the jackpot symbol related to the consumed reserved memory (the random number for determining the jackpot symbol in the buffer for determining the jackpot). In more detail, when the first reserved memory is consumed, one jackpot symbol pattern is determined from among the first to tenth jackpot symbol patterns (see FIG. 7(A)) based on the random number for determining the jackpot symbol. On the other hand, when the second reserved memory is consumed, one jackpot symbol pattern is determined from among the eleventh to twentieth jackpot symbol patterns (see FIG. 7(B)) based on the random number for determining the jackpot symbol. The determination of the first to tenth jackpot symbol patterns and the determination of the eleventh to twentieth jackpot symbol patterns are performed according to the predetermined selection probabilities, as described above. Here, when the first reserved memory is consumed and any of the first to fourth jackpot symbol modes is selected, the short type jackpot game mode is determined, when any of the fifth to seventh jackpot symbol modes is selected, the first long type jackpot game mode is determined, and when any of the eighth to tenth jackpot symbol modes is selected, the second long type jackpot game mode is determined. Also, when the second reserved memory is consumed and any of the eleventh to fourteenth jackpot symbol modes is selected, the short type jackpot game mode is determined, when any of the fifteenth to seventeenth jackpot symbol modes is selected, the first long type jackpot game mode is determined, and when any of the seventeenth to twentieth jackpot symbol modes is selected, the second long type jackpot game mode is determined.

[0082] In the subsequent process of determining the variation pattern at S210, the variation time of the special symbol is determined based on the random numbers for determining the variation pattern related to the consumed reserved memory (such as the random numbers for determining the variation pattern in the buffer for determining a jackpot) and the probability variation flag, and the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined according to the variation time. In more detail, the variation time of the selectable special symbols is predetermined according to the probability variable flag, and the variation time of the special symbols is determined according to the above-mentioned random numbers for determining variation patterns, etc. In other words, when the probability variable flag = 0 (normal gaming state), the mode is non-time-saving mode, so the variation time of the special symbols corresponding to the non-time-saving mode can be selected, and the variation time of the special symbols is determined according to the random numbers for determining variation patterns of the consumed reserved memory, etc. On the other hand, when the probability variable flag = 1 (probability variable gaming state), the mode is time-saving mode, so the variation time of the special symbols corresponding to the time-saving mode can be selected, and the variation time is determined according to the random numbers for determining variation patterns, etc.

[0083] In the next S215, the opening mode of the first large winning opening 14 and the second large winning opening 15 and the opening mode of the probability variable opening 35 are determined in accordance with the jackpot game content determined in S205 (see FIG. 8). Furthermore, in S215, the presentation time and presentation pattern related to the jackpot game (the presentation time and presentation pattern between the jackpot start presentation and the jackpot end presentation), the interval time, etc. are also set. After S215, the process proceeds to S250.

[0084] In S220, it is determined whether or not there is a small win based on the determination result of S190 or S195. If the determination is affirmative (S220: Yes), the process proceeds to S225, and if the determination is negative (S220: No), the process proceeds to S240.

[0085] In S225, the small winning symbol is determined based on the random number for determining the big winning symbol related to the reserved memory that has been consumed, and the process proceeds to S230. In the process of determining the variation pattern at S230, similar to S210, the variation time of the special symbol is determined based on the random numbers for determining the variation pattern related to the consumed reserved memory (such as the random numbers for determining the variation pattern in the buffer for determining a jackpot) and the probability variation flag, and the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined according to the variation time. In the next S235, the opening operation pattern of the first large winning port 14 in the small win game and the presentation time related to the small win game are set, and the process proceeds to S250.

[0086] Furthermore, in S240 following the negative determination of S220, similar to S210, the variation time and variation pattern of the special symbol are determined based on the variation pattern determination random numbers etc. (variation pattern determination random numbers etc. in the buffer for determining a jackpot) related to the consumed reserved memory and the probability variable flag. Furthermore, in S240, prior to this, a process for determining a losing symbol is performed. In the following S245, processing related to a losing is performed, and the process proceeds to S250. In this embodiment, the process of determining the losing symbol is performed in S240, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be adopted in which a process of determining the losing symbol is performed before S240.

[0087] In S250, a reserved number command indicating the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number after decrementing in S170 and S180, a command including information on the hit / miss determination result (jackpot, small hit, or miss) determined in S190 and S195, and a fluctuation start command including the jackpot game mode, special symbol fluctuation time, special symbol stop mode, etc. determined in S205 are transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 83. This fluctuation start command includes information indicating whether the consumed reserved memory is the first reserved memory or the second reserved memory, and information on the jackpot game mode determined in S205 (short type jackpot game mode, first long type jackpot game mode, or second long type jackpot game mode). Furthermore, depending on the consumed reserved memory, the first special symbol display device 9 or the second special symbol display device 10 is driven and controlled to start fluctuating the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and the hit / miss determination process is terminated. When the sub-integrated control device 83 receives such a command, it stores the information indicated in the command (the number of first reserved memories and the number of second reserved memories, the variation time of the special symbols, the result of the hit / miss determination, the stopping mode of the special symbols, the jackpot game mode, etc.) in a predetermined buffer. Then, the sub-integrated control device 83 sends a command to the effect symbol control device 82 along with the variation start command, and the effect symbol control device 82 drives and controls the effect symbol display device 6 in accordance with the received command, and starts displaying the special effect symbol corresponding to the information on the stopping pattern mode and variation pattern of the special symbol.

[0088] 13, which follows the affirmative determination of S155, determines whether the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed, and if the determination is affirmative (S300: Yes), proceed to S305, and if the determination is negative (S300: No), end the win / loss determination process. In S305, the display of the variation of the special symbol is ended, and the determined symbol of the special symbol (i.e., the big win symbol determined in S205, the small win symbol determined in S225, or the losing symbol determined in S240) is displayed, and a symbol determination command to execute the determined display of the performance symbol is sent to the sub-integrated control device 83, and end the win / loss determination process.

[0089] 14, which follows the affirmative determination of S160, determines whether the duration of the fixed display of the special symbol has ended, and if the determination is affirmative (S350: Yes), proceed to S355, and if the determination is negative (S350: No), the hit / miss determination process is terminated. In S355, the fixed display of the special symbol is terminated, and proceeds to S360. In S360, it is determined whether the fixed and displayed special symbol is a jackpot symbol pattern, and if the determination is affirmative (S360: Yes), proceed to S365, and if the determination is negative (S360: No), proceed to S410. In S365, the probability variable flag is referenced, and if the probability variable flag = 1, the probability variable flag is cleared (S370), and the remaining number of special symbol fluctuations is cleared (S380), and proceeds to S390. Thereafter, by sequentially executing the state designation command sending process (S390), the condition device operation start process (S395), the role continuous operation device operation start process (S400), and the jackpot start performance process (S405), the jackpot game is started by sending commands indicating the state of the jackpot game and commands instructing the start of the jackpot game to the sub-integrated control device 83, and the win / loss determination process is terminated. Here, in the state designation command transmission process (S390) of this embodiment, when the probability variable flag is cleared (S370), information indicating the end of the probability variable game state is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 83.

[0090] On the other hand, in S410, which follows the negative judgment of S360, the probability variable flag is referenced, and if the probability variable flag is 1 (S410: Yes), the remaining number of hit / miss judgments that can be performed during the probability variable mode (the remaining number of special chart fluctuations) is referenced (S415). Then, if the remaining number of special chart fluctuations is 0 (S415: Yes), the probability variable flag is cleared (S420) and the process proceeds to S440. On the other hand, if the negative judgment of S415 is made (S415: No), the process proceeds to S440.

[0091] In S440, a state designation command transmission process is executed. In the state designation command transmission process (S440) of this embodiment, when the probability variable flag is cleared (S420), information indicating the end of the probability variable game state is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 83. In the next S445, it is determined whether the confirmed special pattern is a pattern that will result in a small win, and if the determination is affirmative (S445: Yes), the process proceeds to S450, where a special electric device activation start process (S450) and a small win start performance process (S455) are executed in sequence, thereby starting the small win game by sending a command indicating the mode of the small win game and a command instructing the start of the small win game to the sub-integrated control device 83, and the win / loss determination process is terminated. Also, if the determination is negative in S445 (S445: No), the win / loss determination process is terminated.

[0092] Next, the jackpot game processing executed by the main control device 80 will be explained using the flowcharts of Figures 15 to 18. This jackpot game processing is a process executed from the special game processing (S70) of the main routine when a jackpot is determined by the hit / miss determination process described above.

[0093] In the jackpot game process, as shown in Fig. 15, it is determined whether or not the accessory continuous operating device is in operation (i.e., whether or not the jackpot game is being executed) (S500). If the determination is affirmative (S500: Yes), the process proceeds to S505, and if the determination is negative (S500: No), the jackpot game process is terminated.

[0094] In S505, it is determined whether the first major winning slot 14 is open or not, and if the determination is affirmative (S505: Yes), the process proceeds to S550 in FIG. 16, and if the determination is negative (S505: No), the process proceeds to S510.

[0095] In S510, it is determined whether the second large prize opening 15 is open or not, and if the determination is positive (S510: Yes), the process proceeds to S600 in FIG. 16, and if the determination is negative (S510: No), the process proceeds to S515.

[0096] In S515, it is determined whether or not the interval between open rounds in the jackpot game is in progress. If the determination is affirmative (S515: Yes), the process proceeds to S650 in FIG. 17, and if the determination is negative (S515: No), the process proceeds to S520. In S520, it is determined whether or not the end presentation of the jackpot game is in progress. If the determination is affirmative (S520: Yes), the process proceeds to S750 in FIG. 18, and if the determination is negative (S520: No), the process proceeds to S525.

[0097] In S525, it is determined whether the start effect time for the jackpot game has elapsed. If the determination is affirmative (S525: Yes), the process proceeds to S530, and if the determination is negative (S525: No), the jackpot game process ends.

[0098] In S530, a first large prize opening process is executed, and the first large prize opening 14 is opened (the first opening round is started) according to the jackpot game mode determined in S205 (FIG. 12) of the win / loss determination process. Specifically, in the case of the short type jackpot game mode, the first long type jackpot game mode, and the second long type jackpot game mode, in the first opening round, the first large prize opening 14 is opened in the normal opening pattern (closed after 30 seconds have elapsed since the opening began or after 10 balls have been entered) (see FIG. 8). In this first large prize opening process, the opening time (30 seconds) preset as the maximum opening time of the first large prize opening 14 in the first opening round is started to expire in synchronization with the opening of the first large prize opening 14. After this first large prize opening process, the process proceeds to S540. Here, the expiration of the open time is performed by a subtraction process of the open timer. Specifically, the open timer has a counter value corresponding to the open time (30 seconds) set in advance, and executes a process of subtracting the counter value every time a jackpot game process is executed (every time a timer interrupt process is executed), and the open time is considered to have elapsed when the counter value becomes 0. Of course, the means for measuring the open time is not limited to the subtraction process of the open timer, and other means can also be used.

[0099] In S540, the open round counter indicating the number of open rounds is incremented, and the jackpot game processing is terminated.

[0100] 16, which follows the affirmative determination of S505, a determination is made as to whether the number of game balls entering the first large prize opening 14 has reached 10. If the determination is affirmative (S550: Yes), the process proceeds to S560. If the determination is negative (S550: No), the process proceeds to S555. In S555, a determination is made as to whether the opening time (30 seconds) has elapsed based on the expiration of the opening timer. Here, if the determination is affirmative (S555: Yes), the process proceeds to S560. If the determination is negative (S555: No), the jackpot game processing is terminated. In S560, a first large prize opening closing process is executed to close the first large prize opening 14 (ending the opening round). In the following S565, a jackpot interval process is executed to set the interval between each opening round of the jackpot game, and the jackpot game processing is terminated.

[0101] In S600, which follows the affirmative determination in S510, it is determined whether or not the ball has entered the probability variable hole 35. If the determination is affirmative (S600: Yes), the process proceeds to S605, and if the determination is negative (S600: No), the process proceeds to S610. In S605, the probability variable hole ball entry flag is set to 1, and the process proceeds to S610.

[0102] In S610, it is determined whether the number of game balls entering the second large prize opening 15 has reached 10. If the determination is affirmative (S610: Yes), the process proceeds to S620; if the determination is negative (S610: No), the process proceeds to S615. In S615, it is determined whether the opening time (0.2 seconds or 30 seconds) of the second large prize opening 15 has elapsed. Here, if the determination is affirmative (S615: Yes), the process proceeds to S620; if the determination is negative (S615: No), the jackpot game process ends. In S620, a second large prize opening closing process is executed, and the second large prize opening 15 is closed (the opening round ends). In the following S625, a probability variable opening operation ending process is executed, and the first probability variable opening opening operation or the second probability variable opening opening operation is ended, and the probability variable opening 35 is placed in a closed state. That is, when the probability variable port 35 is opened by the first probability variable port opening operation, if the probability variable port 35 is closed after being opened for 0.5 seconds, it will be maintained in the closed state. On the other hand, when the probability variable port 35 is opened by the second probability variable port opening operation, if 1 second has passed after the second large winning port 15 is closed, the opening operation of the probability variable port 35 (0.5 second opening operation and 0.2 second closing operation) will be completed, and the probability variable port 35 will be maintained in the closed state.

[0103] In the next S630, a jackpot interval process is executed to set the interval between each opening round of the jackpot game, and the jackpot game process is terminated.

[0104] 17, which follows the affirmative determination of S515, determines whether the jackpot game interval has elapsed. If the determination is affirmative (S650: Yes), the process proceeds to S655, and if the determination is negative (S650: No), the jackpot game process ends. In S655, it is determined whether the open round counter is 4 (whether the fourth open round has ended), and if the determination is affirmative (S655: Yes), the process proceeds to S660, and if the determination is negative (S655: No), the process proceeds to S700.

[0105] In S660, it is determined whether or not a jackpot game is being played in the second long type jackpot game mode described above. If the determination is affirmative (S660: Yes), the process proceeds to S665. If the determination is negative (S660: No), the process proceeds to S670. In S665, the normal opening pattern is enabled as the opening mode of the second large prize winning port 15, and the second probability variable port opening operation of the probability variable port 35 is enabled, in accordance with the second long type jackpot game mode determined in S205 (FIG. 12) of the win / loss determination process described above. After this processing, the process proceeds to S675. Meanwhile, in S670, the short-time opening pattern is enabled as the opening mode of the second large prize winning port 15, and the first probability variable port opening operation of the probability variable port 35 is enabled, in accordance with the short type jackpot game mode or the first long type jackpot game mode determined in S205. After this processing, the process proceeds to S675.

[0106] In S675, a second large prize opening opening process is executed. In this second large prize opening opening process, if the normal opening pattern is enabled in S665, the second large prize opening 15 is opened according to the normal opening pattern (starting the fifth opening round). That is, the second large prize opening 15 is opened, and the maximum opening time of the second large prize opening 15 is set to the opening time of the normal opening pattern (30 seconds), and the expiration of this opening time (30 seconds) begins upon the start of opening of the second large prize opening 15. On the other hand, if the short-time opening pattern is enabled in S670, the second large prize opening 15 is opened according to the short-time opening pattern (starting the fifth opening round). That is, the second large prize opening 15 is opened, and the maximum opening time of the second large prize opening 15 is set to the opening time of the short-time opening pattern (0.2 seconds), and the expiration of this opening time (0.2 seconds) begins upon the start of opening of the second large prize opening 15. The open time is elapsed in the same manner as in S530.

[0107] In the next S680, a process for starting the probability variable port operation is executed. In this process, if the second probability variable port opening operation is enabled in the above S665, the probability variable port 35 is opened by the second probability variable port opening operation. That is, when the second large prize winning port 15 starts to open, the second probability variable port opening operation is started, which repeats the operation of opening the probability variable port 35 for 0.5 seconds and the operation of closing it for 0.2 seconds. In the case of the second long type jackpot game mode, since the time for opening the second large prize winning port 15 is long, the probability variable port 35 is opened multiple times. On the other hand, if the first probability variable opening operation is enabled in S670, the probability variable opening operation is performed to open the probability variable opening 35. That is, when the second large prize winning opening 15 starts to open, the probability variable opening 35 is opened and then closed 0.5 seconds after the start of the opening operation. In the case of a short type jackpot game mode and a first long type jackpot game mode, the probability variable opening 35 is only opened once.

[0108] In the next S690, the open round counter indicating the number of open rounds is incremented, and the jackpot game processing is terminated.

[0109] S700, which follows the negative determination in S655, determines whether the final round has ended. That is, in a jackpot game using a short-type jackpot game mode, it determines whether the fifth open round has ended, while in a jackpot game using a first long-type jackpot game mode or a second long-type jackpot game mode, it determines whether the tenth open round has ended. If the determination is affirmative (S700: Yes), the program proceeds to S755, where S755 and S760 are executed sequentially. In S755 and S760, the continuous operation device and the condition device are stopped, and the program proceeds to S770. In S770, it determines whether the probability variable ball entry flag is 1. If the determination is affirmative (S770: Yes), the program proceeds to S775. If the determination is negative (S770: No), the program proceeds to S795. In S775, the number of win / loss determinations that can be performed during the probability variable game state (the upper limit value for the number of special symbol changes) is set. In the next S780, the probability variable flag is set to 1, and the process proceeds to S785. In S785, the probability variable ball entry flag is cleared, and the process proceeds to S795. Here, when transitioning to a probability variable game state (probability variable flag = 1), the high probability mode, time-saving mode, and open extension mode are selected, and the predetermined upper limit value of the number of times of special pattern fluctuation is referenced and set to the remaining number of times of special pattern fluctuation. In S795, a state designation command transmission process is executed, and then the process proceeds to S797, where a jackpot end effect process is executed to perform an effect when the jackpot game is ended, and the jackpot game process is ended. In this embodiment, in S795, information on the game state (normal game state or special game state) to which the game will be transitioned after the jackpot game is played is sent to the sub-integrated control device 83. It is determined whether the final round has ended, and if the determination is negative (S700: No), the process proceeds to S705. In S705, the first large prize opening process is executed. In this process, the same process as S530 is performed. That is, in any of the short type jackpot game mode, the first long type jackpot game mode, and the second long type jackpot game mode, the first large prize opening 14 is opened according to the normal opening pattern. After the process of S705, the process proceeds to S690.

[0110] 18, which follows S520, it is determined whether the time for the big win end presentation has ended. If the determination is affirmative (S750: Yes), the process proceeds to S790. In S790, a jackpot end command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 83 to end the effects related to the jackpot game. If the result is negative (S750: No), the jackpot game processing is terminated.

[0111] Next, the main part of the present invention will be described.

[0112] In this embodiment, if the final round and jackpot interval time have passed in S700 of Figure 17, the operation of the device for continuous operation of the reels and the condition device is stopped in S755 and S760, and if the ball has entered the special jackpot port, the special jackpot flag is set to 1 in S780, and then the jackpot end performance is executed.Since the jackpot game is being played with a special pattern during the jackpot game, the special pattern cannot start changing until the jackpot game ends (the jackpot end performance ends), but the normal pattern can change even during the jackpot game. When a jackpot game starts, the game state is the normal game state, which is the game state of "low probability mode / non-time-saving mode / non-open extension mode", so the normal symbols fluctuate, and even if a predetermined winning pattern occurs, the normal electric accessory 13 only opens for a short time, making it difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 12, and basically the ball does not enter. However, in this embodiment, after the final round of the jackpot game is completed, the probability variable flag is set to 1 in S780, and the game state is set to the probability variable game state of "high probability mode / time-saving mode / open extension mode", and then the jackpot end performance is executed.

[0113] During the jackpot end performance, it is not possible to start the variation of the special symbols, and it is possible to start the variation of the special symbols after the jackpot end performance ends. The normal symbols can be changed even during a jackpot game, and if the ball enters the probability variable port during the jackpot end performance after the final round is over, the game enters a probability variable game state, which means that an extended opening mode is set, the probability of winning the normal symbols increases, and if the normal symbols are in a winning state, the normal electric accessory 13 can be opened for a long time.

[0114] FIG. 19 is a time chart explaining the timing at which the probability variable flag for a jackpot game in the second long type jackpot game mode is turned ON.

[0115] When the second long type jackpot occurs, first, the jackpot start effect is executed as shown in FIG. 19A, and when the jackpot start effect time has elapsed, the first large prize winning opening 14 is opened, and when the first large prize winning opening 14 is closed, the first large prize winning opening 14 is closed until the interval time has elapsed as shown in FIG. 19B, and when the interval time has elapsed, the first large prize winning opening 14 is opened again, and the opening round of opening the large prize winning openings is repeated, and in the fifth opening round, the second large prize winning opening 15 is opened, and the second large prize winning opening 1 As number 5 opens, the operation of opening and closing the special prize opening 35 is repeated, and when the second large prize opening 15 closes and the special prize opening 35 is also closed, the opening round in which the first large prize opening 14 is opened again after the interval time has passed is repeated up to the 10th opening round, and when the 10th opening round, which is the final opening round, is completed, the first large prize opening 14 closes, and when the interval time has passed as shown in b of Figure 19, the jackpot end presentation is executed as shown in c. Once the time for the jackpot end performance has elapsed, the jackpot end performance will end and the special pattern will be able to change. Also, if the ball enters the probability variable port 35 in the fifth open round, the probability variable flag is turned ON as shown in FIG. 19 when the interval following the end of the tenth open round ends.

[0116] In this embodiment, during the jackpot end performance, the probability variable flag is turned on, and the mode is set to "high probability mode / time-saving mode / extended opening mode." During the jackpot end performance, the time-saving mode / extended opening mode is set, so the probability of winning a normal symbol is high, the opening time of the normal electric accessory 13 is also extended, making it easier for the ball to enter the second starting hole, allowing the second reserved memory to be stored, and when the jackpot end performance ends, the special symbol can be changed, and even if there is a reserved memory in the first reserved memory, the second reserved memory is consumed first, so the second special symbol is changed.

[0117] In conventional gaming machines, as shown in Figure 20, when the final round, the 10th open round, ends, the first large prize opening 14 closes, and when the interval time has elapsed as shown in Figure 20b, the jackpot end effect is executed, which is similar to Figure 19, but the timing at which the probability variable flag is turned ON is different, and the probability variable flag is turned ON after the jackpot end effect ends. Since the special symbol can be changed at this timing, if there is no reserved memory in the second reserved memory but there is reserved memory in the first reserved memory, the normal symbol will change, the normal electric device 13 will open, and the first special symbol will start to change before the gaming ball enters the second starting hole. As shown in Figure 7, the first special symbol has a lower probability of triggering a second long-type jackpot game compared to the second special symbol. When a jackpot is hit and the game enters a post-jackpot probability variable mode, the ball is more likely to enter the second starting slot 12 due to the "high probability mode / time-saving mode / extended open mode." Furthermore, if a jackpot is triggered by the consumption of the second reserved memory, the ball is more likely to enter the probability variable slot 35 (the probability of the game continuing in the probability variable mode is high). Therefore, in the probability variable mode, the player's right-hand hit is more likely to accumulate second reserved memory, and the priority consumption of the second reserved memory makes it more likely that a second long-type jackpot will occur. Furthermore, in the probability variable mode, the first reserved memory is less likely to accumulate and is less likely to be consumed. While the player also wants to play by consuming the second reserved memory, if the first special symbol that changes during the probability variable mode is hit, the probability of triggering a second long-type jackpot game is reduced.

[0118] Therefore, in the embodiment, the probability of winning a normal pattern is increased by turning on the special pattern flag and entering the special pattern state before the special pattern changes after a jackpot game, and by lengthening the opening time of the normal electric device 13, it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the second start port, and the ball enters the second start port during the jackpot end performance and the second reserved memory is accumulated, and even if there is reserved memory in the first reserved memory after the jackpot end performance when the special pattern can change, it is consumed from the second reserved memory which has priority, and the player can play a game with a high probability of executing a jackpot game in the second long type jackpot game mode.

[0119] This can prevent a loss of interest in the game due to the loss of an opportunity to earn a large profit (the problem with the conventional configuration mentioned above), and also allows the inherent value of the special probability game state to be properly realized. As a result, the interest in playing in the probability variation game state can be significantly increased, and the above-mentioned effects are further improved accordingly.

[0120] A variation of the above-described embodiment will now be described.

[0121] In the embodiment, the reel continuous operation device and the condition device are stopped at S755 and 760 in Figure 17, but the timing of stopping them is not limited to this and they may be stopped at the end of the final round or at the end of the big win ending performance, or only one may be stopped and the other may be stopped at a different timing.

[0122] In the embodiment, as shown in Figure 19, an interval time and a jackpot end presentation time are set at the end of the final round of the jackpot, but the interval time and the jackpot end presentation time may not be separate, but may be one (interval + jackpot end presentation time) and set as a jackpot end interval at the end of the final round.

[0123] The time until the special symbol can change after the special symbol flag is turned ON during jackpot play (in this embodiment, the time of the jackpot end presentation) is preferably longer than the sum of the time from the start of the normal symbol change in normal play mode (non-time-saving mode / non-open extension mode) until a win is won and the normal electric device 13 closes, and the time from the start of the change in the special symbol change mode (time-saving mode / open extension mode) until the normal electric device 13 opens. As shown in Figure 21, the 10th opening round of the jackpot closes, and an interval (b in Figure 21) occurs, during which the normal symbols change (d-1 in Figure 21). When the change starts, the game is in normal play mode, so the change time is long, and even if a win is made, the normal electric device 13 opens for only a short time (d-2 in Figure 21), making it difficult to get the ball into the second starting hole. When the normal symbol is changing, the interval time ends, the jackpot end performance (c in Figure 21) occurs, and the special rate flag is turned ON, but since the normal symbol started changing during normal game mode, the change time of the changing normal symbol (d-1 in Figure 21) does not become shorter, and even if the normal symbol that started changing during normal game mode is won, the opening time of the normal electric device 13 (d-2 in Figure 21) does not become longer. Then, when the normal electric device 13 closes, the normal symbol changes again (e-1 in Figure 21). At this time, the normal electric device 13 is in a probability variable game state, so the change is short-term, and since the normal electric device 13 can be opened for a long time (e-2 in Figure 21), it is possible for the ball to enter the second starting hole, but the special symbol has already changed, and if there is a first reserved memory, the change will start as the first reserved memory is consumed. To prevent this from happening, the probability variable flag is turned ON during the period when the special symbol cannot be changed during a jackpot game, and a long time is set before the special symbol can be changed, so that a win is made by the normal symbol that has changed during the probability variable game state, and the ball enters the second starting hole with a high probability before the special symbol changes, and when the special symbol becomes changeable, the second special symbol can be changed even if the first reserved memory is present.

[0124] In the above, it is set to be longer than the sum of the time from the start of fluctuation of the normal symbol in the normal game state (non-time-shortening mode / non-opening extension mode) until the winning is made and the normal electric device 13 is closed, and the time from the start of fluctuation in the probability variable game state (time-shortening mode / opening extension mode) until the normal electric device 13 is opened. However, in order to set a more accurate time, it is set to be longer than the sum of the time from the start of fluctuation of the normal symbol in the normal game state (non-time-shortening mode / non-opening extension mode) until the winning is made and the normal electric device 13 is closed, and the time from the start of fluctuation in the probability variable game state (time-shortening mode / non-opening extension mode) until the winning is made and the normal electric device 13 is opened. The time taken for the ball to enter the second starting port may be longer than the time taken from the start of fluctuation in the normal game state (non-time-shortening mode / non-opening extended mode) until the normal electric device 13 is opened, plus the time taken for the ball to enter the second starting port, or the time taken from the start of fluctuation in the normal game state (non-time-shortening mode / non-opening extended mode) until the normal electric device 13 is closed after winning, plus the time taken from the start of fluctuation in the special game state (time-shortening mode / opening extended mode) until the normal electric device 13 is opened and closed after winning. Also, taking into consideration that although the probability of winning for normal symbols is high, they may lose, the time described above may be the sum of the time from the start of fluctuation in the special probability game state (time-saving mode / extended open mode) to the time when the winning is not confirmed and a loss is determined, for example, it may be longer than the sum of the time from the start of fluctuation of the normal symbol in the normal game state (non-time-saving mode / non-extended open mode) until a win occurs and the normal electric device 13 is closed, and the time from the start of fluctuation in the special probability game state (time-saving mode / extended open mode) until the normal electric device 13 is opened, and the time from the start of fluctuation in the special probability game state (time-saving mode / extended open mode) until a loss is not confirmed and a loss is determined, or it may be set so that the number of losses for normal symbols in the special probability game state is not just one, but two or three or more times, and may be longer than that, and may be set appropriately according to the probability of winning for normal symbols. However, if the time is set too long, the player may feel dissatisfied because he or she will not be able to play until the game starts after the jackpot (the state in which the special symbol can change), and as described above, it is preferable to set the time from the start of the change in the normal symbol in the normal game state (non-time-saving mode / non-open extension mode) until the normal electric device 13 closes after a win, plus the time from the start of the change in the special game state (time-saving mode / open extension mode) until the normal electric device 13 opens, or a time slightly longer than that, and this can be changed and set as appropriate.

[0125] In the embodiment, the probability variable flag is turned ON at the end of the interval after the final round of the jackpot game in the second long type jackpot game mode has ended, but this timing may be other. For example, the probability variable flag may be turned ON when the final round has ended, or when the probability variable port switch is turned ON, or at the end or start of a round before the final round, or at the end of the interval. By turning ON the probability variable flag at an early stage, the normal symbol is highly likely to be selected, and the second reserved memory can be accumulated before the special symbol can be changed. As described above, it is sufficient that the change of the normal symbol that was changing before the probability variable flag was turned ON ends, and the normal symbol changes after the probability variable flag is turned ON, and time is secured for the game ball to enter the opened normal electric device 13. However, if the probability variation flag is turned ON at an early stage, the normal electric device 13 will be opened during the jackpot game (while the large prize opening is open), and therefore, if the normal electric device 13 is located upstream of the large prize opening as shown in Figure 2, it will hinder the ball from entering the large prize opening, so in such an arrangement, it is preferable to turn ON the probability variation flag after the final round has ended. Also, unlike Figure 2, the normal electric device 13 may be installed downstream of the large prize opening. In this case, even if the probability variable flag is turned ON at an early stage, it will not hinder the ball from entering the large prize opening, so such an arrangement is acceptable. However, on the other hand, there is a risk that the ball will enter the large prize opening and then have difficulty entering the normal electric device 13, which may frustrate the player. In this way, the opening timing and interval of the big prize opening may be changed as appropriate so as not to interfere with the balls entering the big prize opening or the normal electric device 13. In this way, when there is no restriction on the arrangement of the normal electric device 13 or the board of the big prize slot, it is preferable to turn on the probability change flag at the end of the final round.

[0126] Furthermore, while the embodiment shows a configuration with two large prize openings, the first large prize opening 14 and the second large prize opening 15, the configuration is not limited to this, and a configuration with one large prize opening, or a configuration with three or four large prize openings, etc., may also be used. For example, a configuration with only one large prize opening with a special prize opening inside (corresponding to the second large prize opening device in the embodiment) can be used, and by changing the opening time of the large prize opening or the special prize opening in a predetermined opening round, it is possible to define multiple jackpot game modes (the first jackpot game mode and the second jackpot game mode of the present invention) with different ball entry rates into the special prize opening. Specifically, a configuration with an opening / closing means for opening and closing the special prize opening is preferred, and the special prize opening is opened only in the predetermined opening round and closed outside of the predetermined opening round.

[0127] Furthermore, after a jackpot game, the game can be configured to transition to a game state other than the normal game state and the probability variable game state. For example, a time-saving game state (low probability mode) in which the time-saving mode and the extended open mode are enabled may be defined, and after a jackpot game, the game may transition to any of the normal game state, the probability variable game state, and the time-saving game state. In the time-saving game state described above, the probability variable flag in the embodiment is used, but the probability variable flag in the embodiment may be used as a time-saving flag and the time-saving flag may be turned ON during a jackpot, or the probability variable game state in the embodiment may be eliminated, and only the time-saving game state and the normal game state may be used.

[0128] In the embodiment, the winning probability of the normal symbol is made higher than in the non-open extension mode, and the opening time of the normal electric device 13 is extended compared to the non-open extension mode, thereby making it easier for the gaming ball to enter the second starting hole 12, but it is also possible to make the winning probability of the normal symbol higher than in the non-open extension mode, or to extend the opening time of the normal electric device 13 compared to the non-open extension mode, thereby making it easier for the gaming ball to enter the second starting hole 12. Also, in the embodiment, the winning probability of the normal symbol is set to 1 / 10 in the non-open extension mode, while the corresponding selection probability is set to 9 / 10 in the open extension mode, but the open extension mode may be set to 10 / 10 to ensure a win, and while the winning probability remains the same by making both the non-open extension mode and the open extension mode a 10 / 10 win, it is also possible to make it easier for the gaming ball to enter the second starting hole 12 in the open extension mode by changing the normal symbol variation time or the opening time of the normal electric device 13.

[0129] In the embodiment, a hitting suggestion notification may be made on the effect symbol display device 6. As in the embodiment, the hitting suggestion notification is made by hitting the ball from the left flow area 3a where the game ball flows down on the left side and the right flow area 3b where the game ball flows down on the right side of the center case 5, and in the normal game state, the ball is hit from the left to aim at the first start hole 11, and during a jackpot game or a probability variable game state, the big prize hole or the second start hole 12 is provided in the right flow area 3b, so the ball is played by hitting the ball from the right. Therefore, during a jackpot game or a probability variable game state, a notification is given to the player to hit to the right. The notification may be made by a voice message saying "Aim to the right" or by displaying "Aim to the right →" on the effect symbol display device 6. This play suggestion notification is implemented during jackpot play, and may be different from the play suggestion notification when the probability variable flag (time-saving flag) is not ON during jackpot play, such as during a jackpot end performance, during a period when the special symbol cannot be changed. During a jackpot end performance, the large prize entry port is closed, and the player may not fire a game ball until the jackpot end performance ends, preventing the ball from entering the second starting port 12. Therefore, a special play suggestion notification is implemented during this period to notify the player, allowing the ball to enter the second starting port 12. The special notification may be an increased volume of the play suggestion notification during jackpot play, a special display, or a sound or display encouraging the player to aim at a specific location, such as the second starting port 12 or the normal symbol activation gate 17. In addition, the hitting suggestion notification at the start of a jackpot game and during a jackpot game may be different, and the same hitting suggestion notification as at the start of a jackpot game may be implemented during the period when the probability variable flag (time-saving flag) is ON during a jackpot game and the special symbol cannot change. This is because at the start of a jackpot game, a more noticeable notification is implemented than during a jackpot game, encouraging the player to fire, making it easier for the player to recognize that they must fire even when the jackpot end performance is reached.

[0130] In addition, in the embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol have different probabilities of executing a jackpot game in the second long type jackpot mode, and the second special symbol has a higher probability of resulting in a second long type jackpot game, thereby increasing the probability of the second special symbol's probability fluctuation. In this way, in a gaming machine in which the first special symbol and the second special symbol are ranked higher in terms of merit, the effect is achieved by storing the second reserved memory during jackpot play as in this embodiment. In the embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol have different probabilities of probability fluctuation, but the effect of the present invention can be achieved if the first special symbol and the second special symbol are ranked higher in terms of merit. For example, in a gaming machine in which the number of balls paid or the number of rounds upon a jackpot are different, the appearance rate of special effects or the probability of small jackpots is different, or the number of time-saving periods after a jackpot is different, the second special symbol is more advantageous than the first special symbol, and preventing the first special symbol from fluctuating as in the embodiment can be effective.

[0131] In this embodiment, a so-called digital pachinko type pachinko machine 50 is exemplified, but this is not limited to this, and the present invention can also be applied to so-called two-type type (hanemono), one-type and two-type combined pachinko machines, probability-varying machines without probability-varying ports, and gaming machines without probability-varying functions.

[0132] Furthermore, in the embodiment, the configuration includes an upper tray 55 and a lower tray 63, but this is not limited to this and the machine may be a so-called sealed-in type pachinko machine. A sealed-in type pachinko machine plays games by circulating a predetermined number of game balls sealed inside. The pachinko machine of the embodiment may also be a so-called managed gaming machine. A managed gaming machine disables external access to the main control device, allows communication only in one direction from the main control device to the frame control device (corresponding to the payout control device in the embodiment), and is configured to be able to communicate with the hall computer only via the frame control device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1. Pachinko machines (pinball machines) 3 Gaming area 6. Performance pattern display device 11 First starting point 12 Second starting port 14 First Grand Prize Winner 15 Second Grand Prize Winner 35 Special Area

Claims

[Claim 1] A first starting hole provided in the game area and capable of receiving a ball at any time; A second starting hole provided in the game area and built into a normal electric device that can be changed to an open state where it is easier to enter the ball than the first starting hole and a closed state where it is more difficult to enter the ball than the first starting hole; a first storage means capable of storing a plurality of random numbers generated due to a ball entering the first starting hole; A second holding means capable of storing a plurality of random numbers generated due to the ball entering the second starting hole; A special symbol setting means for setting a special symbol to be displayed after the variable display based on each random number value; A first special symbol varying means for referring to the random number values ​​stored in the first reserve means in order of occurrence and varying the display of the special symbol based on each random number value; A second special symbol varying means for referring to the random number values ​​stored in the second reserve means in order of occurrence and varying the display of the special symbol based on each random number value; When random numbers are stored in both the first reserve means and the second reserve means, a priority variation means is provided for preferentially varying the special symbol associated with the second special symbol variation means; a jackpot game means for playing a jackpot game by opening a jackpot opening provided in a game area when the special symbol determined and displayed by the special symbol setting means is a special symbol that has been set as a winning symbol in advance; A normal symbol actuation port that triggers normal symbol determination based on the passage of a game ball; A normal symbol determination means for executing the normal symbol determination; A normal pattern variable display means for displaying a variable normal pattern based on the result of the normal pattern determination; The normal electric accessory has the second starting hole built in, which changes from a closed state where it is difficult for the game ball to enter to an open state where it is easy for the game ball to enter when the result of the normal pattern determination is a normal pattern hit; The game state includes a normal game state and a special game state in which the winning probability of the normal symbol determination is improved compared to the normal game state and / or the opening extension function is used to extend the opening time of the normal electric device when the normal symbol is hit, thereby increasing the chances of the game ball entering the normal electric device, The jackpot game means selects and generates one type of jackpot game from a plurality of preset jackpot games, and the jackpot game generated by the ball entering the second starting hole is set to have a higher probability of being selected as a jackpot game with content more advantageous to the player than the jackpot game generated by the ball entering the first starting hole, a state transition means for transitioning a gaming state from the normal gaming state to the bonus gaming state during the jackpot game; The gaming machine is characterized in that the special symbols cannot be changed during a jackpot game.

Images