Gaming machines

Abstract

We provide gaming machines that feature a distinctive design. [Solution] The non-electric second variable means operates in a third mode in which the second detection means can more easily detect the game ball than when the second variable means is not operating, due to the action of a game ball that enters when the first variable means is operating in a first mode, and also operates in the third mode in which the action of a game ball that enters when the first variable means is operating in a second mode. The non-electric third variable means operates in a fourth mode in which the third detection means can more easily detect the game ball than when the third variable means is not operating, due to the action of a game ball that enters when the first variable means is operating in the first mode. Furthermore, the game control means executes control to transition to the third time-saving game state when the first symbol is stopped during the fluctuation display of the second special symbol in the first time-saving game state, and the performance means may execute a suggestive performance between the time the right to display the fluctuation of the ordinary symbol that will stop displaying the first winning symbol is generated and the time the fluctuation display of said right is terminated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a game table represented by a ball shooting game machine (pachinko machine), a spinning reel game machine (slot machine), an enclosed game machine, or a medal-less slot machine.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an enclosed game table has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, there is room for improvement in the notification of conventional game tables. <:

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a game table having characteristics in notification.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The game machine according to the present invention includes: a regular symbol display means capable of displaying a variation of a regular symbol; a first special symbol display means capable of displaying a variation of a first special symbol; a second special symbol display means capable of displaying a variation of a second special symbol; a first game area; a second game area; a first detection means capable of detecting a game ball; a second detection means capable of detecting a game ball; a third detection means capable of detecting a game ball; a fourth detection means capable of detecting a game ball; a first variable means; a second variable means; a third variable means; a fourth variable means; and a specific area through which a game ball can pass when the fourth variable means is activated. A game machine comprising: game control means capable of executing control to transition to one of multiple game states; and performance means, wherein the first detection means is a detection means capable of detecting a game ball launched into the first game area; the second detection means is a detection means capable of detecting a game ball launched into the second game area; the third detection means is a detection means capable of detecting a game ball launched into the second game area; the fourth detection means is a detection means capable of detecting a game ball launched into the second game area; and the first variable means is the second game area The means provided in the area, the second variable means provided in the second game area, the third variable means provided in the second game area, the fourth variable means provided in the second game area, the plurality of game states include at least a non-time-saving game state, a first time-saving game state, a second time-saving game state, and a third time-saving game state, the non-time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the first game area, and the first time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the second game area The first time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the second game area, the second time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the second game area, the ordinary symbol display means is configured such that when the first detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the variation of the ordinary symbols, and the first special symbol display means is configured such that when the second detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the variation of the first special symbols.The first special symbol display means is configured to start displaying the first special symbol in a variable state when the third detection means detects a game ball, the second special symbol display means is configured to start displaying the second special symbol in a variable state when the fourth detection means detects a game ball, and the first variable means operates in a first mode that makes it easier to insert a ball than when the first variable means is not operating when the first symbol indicating a win is stopped on the display of the normal symbols in the non-time-saving game state. The first variable means is a means that operates in a second mode that makes it easier for balls to enter than when the first variable means is not operating, when the second symbol indicating a win stops to be displayed in the display of the normal symbols in the non-time-saving game state, the second variable means is a non-electric variable means, the second variable means is a means that operates in a third mode that makes it easier for the second detection means to detect game balls than when the second variable means is not operating, due to the action of game balls that enter when the first variable means is operating in the first mode, and the second The variable means is a means that operates in the third mode by the action of a game ball that enters when the first variable means is operating in the second mode, the third variable means is a non-electric variable means, the third variable means operates in a fourth mode in which the third detection means can detect the game ball more easily than when the third variable means is not operating by the action of a game ball that enters when the first variable means is operating in the first mode, the specific area is used to initiate a jackpot game when a game ball passes through it during a minor win game. This is the region, and the first special symbol display means displays a symbol indicating a minor win or a major win in the display of the first special symbol's variation when at least no symbols other than the first special symbol are changing, and the game control means executes control to transition to the second time-saving game state after the completion of a major win game executed in response to a symbol indicating a minor win (hereinafter referred to as "first minor win") being displayed in the display of the first special symbol's variation in the non-time-saving game state, and the game control means,The game machine is characterized in that, after the completion of a big win game executed in response to the first special symbol stopping in the second time-saving game state's variation display of the first special symbol, the game control means executes a control to transition to the third time-saving game state when the first symbol stops in the second special symbol variation display of the first time-saving game state, the game control means executes a control to transition to the non-time-saving game state when the variation display of the second special symbol starts in the second time-saving game state, and the performance means may execute a suggestive performance between the time the right to display the variation of the ordinary symbol that will stop displaying the first win occurs and the time the variation display of said right ends. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a gaming machine with a distinctive notification system can be realized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the enclosed gaming machine 100, seen from the front (player side). [Figure 2] (a) A schematic front view of the game board 200 of the enclosed gaming machine 100, as seen from the front. (b) A diagram showing the symbols in (a) and the names and functions of the parts corresponding to those symbols. [Figure 3] This is a front view showing the main parts of the attacker unit 800. [Figure 4] (a) A front view showing the upper non-motorized component 229a in the open state. (b) A front view showing the upper non-motorized component 229a in the closed state. [Figure 5] This is a front view showing the main parts of the back passage unit 850. [Figure 6] This is a rear view showing the main parts of the back passage unit 850. [Figure 7](a) A front view showing the main parts of the attacker rear passage unit 856. (b) A rear view showing the main parts of the attacker rear passage unit 856. [Figure 8] (a) A front view showing the upper non-electric component 229a and lower non-electric component 229b, and the upper lever unit 864 and lower lever unit 866 extracted from the attacker unit 800 and the back passage unit 850. (b) A rear view of (a) as seen from the rear. [Figure 9] (a) This is a magnified front view showing a portion of the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866 from the front. (b) This is a magnified perspective view showing a portion of the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866 from an oblique angle. [Figure 10] (a) A front view showing the main parts of the attacker unit 800 and the attacker back passage unit 856. (b) An enlarged view showing the area around the upper distribution unit 808. (c) An enlarged view showing the area around the lower distribution unit 860. [Figure 11] (a) A front view of the attacker base plate upper 802 and attacker base plate lower 804 of the attacker unit 800, seen from the front. (b) A rear view of the attacker front plate 806 of the attacker unit 800, seen from the rear. [Figure 12] This diagram schematically shows the flow of game balls in a sealed-type gaming machine 100. [Figure 13] This shows a circuit block diagram of the control unit of the enclosed gaming machine 100. [Figure 14] (a) An example of the stop symbol configuration in Special Figure 1. (b) An example of the stop symbol configuration in Special Figure 2. (c) An example of the stop symbol configuration in the regular figure. (d) An example of a decorative symbol. [Figure 15] This is a flowchart showing the main processing flow of the main control unit. [Figure 16] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the main control unit timer interrupt processing. [Figure 17]This is a flowchart showing the flow of control processing for special patterns and special electric features. [Figure 18] This is a flowchart showing the state transition process after a big win. [Figure 19] (a) A flowchart of the main processing performed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400. (b) A flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400. (c) A flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400. (d) A flowchart of the image control processing of the first sub-control unit 400. [Figure 20] (a) A flowchart of the main processing performed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500. (b) A flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500. (c) A flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500. [Figure 21] (a) An example of a table for determining whether a special symbol is a hit or miss. (b) An example of a special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (non-time reduction game state). (c) An example of a special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state). (d) An example of a special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (c time reduction game state). (e) A diagram showing an example of discard / interruption control during special symbol variation. [Figure 22] (a) An example of a table for determining whether a regular symbol is correct or incorrect. (b) An example of a regular symbol judgment table (non-time-saving game state). (c) An example of a regular symbol judgment table (a time-saving game state). (d) An example of a regular symbol judgment table (c time-saving game state). (e) A diagram showing an example of the opening time of a regular electric mechanism. (f) A diagram showing an example of the operation mode of a regular electric mechanism. (g) A diagram showing an example of the closing time of a regular electric mechanism. (h) A diagram showing an example of the ending time of a regular electric mechanism. [Figure 23](a) It is a diagram showing an example of the OP time from when the general power operation gate passes until the start of the general electric actuator operation. (b) It is a diagram showing an example of the operation mode of the general electric actuator after the general power operation gate passes. (c) It is a diagram showing an example of the closing time of the general electric actuator after the general power operation gate passes. (d) It is a diagram showing an example of the ED time of the general electric actuator after the general power operation gate passes. (e) It is a diagram showing the effective / invalid state of the general power operation gate when the game ball passes through the general power operation gate 235. (f) It is a diagram showing an example of the discard / interruption control during the general figure variation. (g) It is a diagram showing the relationship between the general power operation mode of the general electric actuator 230 and the setting of the winning validity for non-electricity. [Figure 24] (a) It shows a list of the actuation timings of the sorting unit. (b) It is an example of a time chart of the operations of the general electric actuator 230 and the sorting units 808, 860. [Figure 25] (a) It is a diagram showing a list of state transition timings. (b) It is a time chart showing an example of the first state transition, specifically when the short-time symbol 2 stops in the short-time game state 1 (twice) and the game transitions to the short-time game state 3. (c) It is a time chart showing an example of the second state transition, specifically when the short-time symbol 1 or the short-time symbol 2 stops in the short-time game state 1 (once) and the game transitions to the normal game state. [Figure 26] It is a game flow showing an example of the first half of the game in the enclosed gaming machine 100. [Figure 27] It is a game flow showing an example of the second half of the game in the enclosed gaming machine 100. [Figure 28] It is a diagram showing the effect (Example 1) in chronological order. [Figure 29] (a) - (j) It is a diagram showing the effect (Example 1) in chronological order. (k) - (p) It is a diagram showing the effect (Example 2) in chronological order. [Figure 30] It is an external perspective view of the enclosed gaming machine 100 as seen from the front side (the player side). [Figure 31] It shows the circuit block diagram of the control unit of the enclosed gaming machine 100. [Figure 32]This diagram schematically shows the flow of game balls in a sealed-type gaming machine 100. [Figure 33] This flowchart shows the counting process flow of the frame control unit 600. [Figure 34] This is a flowchart showing the flow of reference signal processing in the frame control unit 600. [Figure 35] This shows the flow of the game ball subtraction process in the frame control unit 600. [Figure 36] This diagram shows the command types between the main control unit and the frame control unit. [Figure 37] This sequence diagram shows an example of communication between the main control unit 300 and the frame control unit 600 after the power of the enclosed gaming machine 100 is turned on, in chronological order. [Figure 38] This sequence diagram shows an example of communication in chronological order when a communication line disconnection error occurs in the main control unit 300 during communication between the main control unit 300 and the frame control unit 600. [Figure 39] This sequence diagram shows an example of communication in chronological order when a communication line disconnection error occurs in the frame control unit 600 during communication between the main control unit 300 and the frame control unit 600. [Figure 40] (a) A diagram showing the types of commands between the frame control unit and the dispensing device. (b) A diagram showing the types of gaming machine information notification commands. [Figure 41] This sequence diagram shows a time-series example of basic communication (without game information) between the frame control unit 600 and the dispensing device 614. [Figure 42] This sequence diagram shows an example of the priority transmission of the game machine information notification command (game information available) in communication between the frame control unit 600 and the lending device 614, in chronological order. [Figure 43] This is a sequence diagram showing an example of count notification in communication between the frame control unit 600 and the lending device 614 in chronological order. [Figure 44] This is a sequence diagram showing an example of a loan notification in communication between the frame control unit 600 and the loan device 614 in chronological order. [Figure 45]This sequence diagram shows an example of what happens when a communication interruption occurs during communication between the frame control unit 600 and the lending device 614, in chronological order. [Figure 46] This sequence diagram shows an example of what happens when a communication interruption occurs during communication between the frame control unit 600 and the lending device 614, in chronological order. [Figure 47] This sequence diagram shows an example of a communication error in the counting notification between the frame control unit 600 and the lending device 614, in chronological order. [Figure 48] This sequence diagram shows an example of a communication error in the loan notification between the frame control unit 600 and the loan device 614 in chronological order. [Figure 49] This is a sequence diagram showing an example of communication between the frame control unit 600 and the dispensing device 614 during gameplay, in chronological order. [Figure 50] This sequence diagram shows an example of communication between the frame control unit 600 and the dispensing device 614 in a time-series manner when the number of game balls increases and the counting button is pressed briefly at the same time. [Figure 51] This sequence diagram shows an example of communication between the frame control unit 600 and the dispensing device 614 in chronological order when the number of game balls increases and the counting button is pressed and held simultaneously. [Figure 52] This is a time chart showing the changes in various signals when one game ball is launched, assuming there is only one game ball available. [Figure 53] This is a time chart showing the changes in various signals when one game ball is launched and one game ball is counted, assuming the number of game balls is 1. [Figure 54] This is a time chart showing the changes in various signals when 250 game balls are launched and 250 game balls are counted. [Figure 55] This is a time chart showing the changes in various signals when 251 game balls are launched and 250 game balls are counted. [Figure 56]This is a time chart showing the changes in various signals when the subtraction sensor signal of the subtraction sensor 618 does not change to the ON level after the reference signal flag is set to ON. [Figure 57] This is an exploded perspective view of the enclosed gaming machine 100. [Figure 58] This is a rear view of the front frame door 106, seen from the rear side. [Figure 59] (a) A magnified view showing the slide lock 170 in the locked position. (b) A magnified view showing the slide lock 170 in the unlocked position. (c) A rear view of the upper unit 154 as seen from the rear. [Figure 60] (a) A top view of the front frame door 106 as seen from above. (b) A front view showing the upper unit 154 in the locked position. (c) A front view showing the upper unit 154 in the unlocked position. [Figure 61] This is a simplified front view of the game board 200, as seen from the front. [Figure 62] This is a simplified rear view of the game board 200, seen from the back. [Figure 63] (a) This is a magnified view of the first ball passage 250 with the first ball passage cover 254 removed, and the second ball passage 260 with the second ball passage cover 264 removed. (b) This is a magnified view of the general prize-winning passage 256. [Figure 64] This is a magnified view of the second ball passage 260 with the first ball passage 250 removed. [Figure 65] (a) A schematic side cross-sectional view showing the spherical passage 270 in which the screw insertion opening 274 is formed. (b) A magnified view of the vicinity of the screw insertion opening 274. [Figure 66] (a) A front view of the ball passage 270 with the upper surface portion 270d omitted. (b) A schematic side cross-sectional view of a modified ball passage 280. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0010] <Overall Structure> First, the overall configuration of the enclosed gaming machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described using Figure 1. Figure 1 is an external perspective view of the enclosed gaming machine 100 as seen from the front (player side).

[0011] The enclosed gaming machine 100 has an external structure comprising an outer frame 102, a main body 104, a front frame door 106, a lower door 108, and a gaming board 200 on its front.

[0012] The outer frame 102 is a vertically rectangular wooden frame member for fixing to an installation location (island equipment, etc.) provided in a gaming establishment. The main body 104, also called the inner frame or frame, is a vertically rectangular gaming machine base body member provided inside the outer frame 102 and rotatably mounted to the outer frame 102 via a hinge portion 112. Furthermore, when the main body 104 is opened, an inner frame opening sensor (not shown) is provided to detect the opening of the main body 104.

[0013] The front frame door 106, also called a front door or glass frame, is a door member that is attached to the front of the main body 104, which is the front side of the enclosed gaming machine 100, via a hinge portion 112, so as to be able to open and close with a locking function, and is constructed in a frame shape with an opening on the inside. The front frame door 106 is provided with a transparent plate member 118 made of glass or resin in the opening, and a speaker 120 and a frame lamp 122 are attached to the front side. The rear surface of the front frame door 106 and the front surface of the gaming board 200 form a partitioned gaming area 124, which will be described later using Figure 2(a). Furthermore, when the front frame door 106 is opened, a front frame door open sensor (not shown) is provided to detect the opening of the front frame door 106.

[0014] The lower door 108 is a door component attached to the lower side of the main body 104 on the front of the enclosed gaming machine 100, with a locking function and capable of being opened and closed. The lower door 108 includes a ball launching handle 134 (launching operation means) that launches game balls guided to the launching device by the player into the game area 124 of the game board 200, an effect button 136 that changes the effect mode of various effect devices by the player's operation, and an operation panel unit 138 having multiple buttons such as a plus button, a minus button, a cross button, and a select button.

[0015] <Front view> Next, we will explain the game board 200 in detail using Figures 2(a) and 2(b).

[0016] Figure 2(a) is a schematic front view of the game board 200 of the enclosed gaming machine 100, and Figure 2(b) shows the symbols in Figure 2(a) and the names and functions of the parts corresponding to those symbols.

[0017] Here, arrows d2 and d3 in Figure 2(a) indicate the direction when the enclosed gaming machine 100 is fixed in place. Arrow d2 indicates the width direction (sometimes called the left-right direction) of the enclosed gaming machine 100, and in a front view, the left hand may be referred to as left and the right hand as right. Arrow d3 indicates the height direction (sometimes called the up-down direction) of the enclosed gaming machine 100, and the higher side may be referred to as up and the lower side as down. Although not shown in Figure 2(a), in the depth direction (sometimes called the front-back direction) of the enclosed gaming machine 100, the front side may be referred to as the front or front side, and the back side may be referred to as the rear or back side.

[0018] The game board 200 has a game area 124 on its front and is detachably attached to the main body 104 using predetermined fixing members. The game area 124 can be observed through the opening of the front frame door 106b after the game board 200 has been attached to the main body 104.

[0019] In this specification, the area on the left side of the game area 124 when viewed from the front (the area to the left of a virtual line passing through the center of the game area 124 in the left-right direction) may be referred to as the first game area or left area, and the area on the right side when viewed from the front (the area to the right of a virtual line passing through the center of the game area 124 in the left-right direction) may be referred to as the second game area or right area.

[0020] The game board 200 is a unit in which various parts are attached to a plate-shaped main body, the game board 201. The game board 201 is made of, for example, resin, and its surface (front) constitutes a decorative surface displaying characters, etc., of the enclosed game machine 100.

[0021] The game board 200 is equipped with an outer rail 202 and an inner rail 204, forming a game area 124 on which balls can roll. Part of the outer rail 202 is formed by a rail member that can be attached to the main body 104. Of the game area 124, the area between the outer rail 202 and the inner rail 204 forms a guide area 201a that guides the launched ball.

[0022] The area of ​​the game board 200 other than the game area 124 is sometimes called the non-game area. The game area 124 and the non-game area can be distinguished by the outer rail 202 as the boundary. In addition, the area inside the area through which the ball passes when the ball launch strength is at its maximum can be called at least the game area 124. The game area 124 may include areas through which the ball does not pass due to the presence of a display device or the like. The game area 124 is sometimes called the flowing area because the ball flows down it during gameplay, and the non-game area is sometimes called the non-flowing area because the ball does not flow down it during gameplay except for maintenance or accidents. The entire game area 124 can be called the flowing area, but areas through which the ball does not flow down due to the presence of a display device or the like may be called the non-flowing area.

[0023] A decorative symbol display device 208 is located approximately in the center of the game area 124. Below the game area 124 is a main control lamp board (not shown), on which, although not shown, are a normal symbol display device, a first special symbol display device, a second special symbol display device, a normal symbol hold lamp, a first special symbol hold lamp, a second special symbol hold lamp, a high probability lamp, an electric support lamp, a right-hand play lamp, a round indicator lamp, etc.

[0024] In the following, regular symbols may be referred to as "regular symbols" and special symbols as "special symbols," and the regular symbol display device, the first special symbol display device, the second special symbol display device, the regular symbol hold lamp, the first special symbol hold lamp, and the second special symbol hold lamp may be referred to as the regular symbol display device, the first special symbol display device, the second special symbol display device, the regular symbol hold lamp, the first special symbol hold lamp, and the second special symbol hold lamp, respectively.

[0025] The decorative pattern display device 208 is a display device for displaying decorative patterns and various effects, and in this embodiment, it is composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD). This decorative pattern display device 208 is divided into four display areas: the left pattern display area 208a, the middle pattern display area 208b, the right pattern display area 208c, and the effect display area 208d. The left pattern display area 208a, the middle pattern display area 208b, and the right pattern display area 208c each display different decorative patterns, and the effect display area 208d displays images used for effects. Furthermore, the position and size of each display area 208a, 208b, 208c, and 208d can be freely changed within the display screen of the decorative pattern display device 208.

[0026] In this example, a liquid crystal display is used as the decorative pattern display device 208, but it does not have to be a liquid crystal display; any device capable of displaying various effects and game information is acceptable. For example, other display devices including dot matrix displays, 7-segment displays, organic EL (ElectroLuminescence) displays, reel (drum) type displays, leaf type displays, plasma displays, and projectors may be used.

[0027] The general diagram display device is a display device for displaying general diagrams, and is composed of, for example, two vertical LEDs. The first special diagram display device and the second special diagram display device are display devices for displaying special diagrams, and are composed of, for example, two rows of LEDs each, totaling eight LEDs.

[0028] The regular symbol hold lamp indicates the number of regular symbol variable games (details below) that are being held. In this example, it allows for the holding of up to a predetermined number of regular symbol variable games (for example, 4). The first special symbol hold lamp indicates the number of special symbol 1 variable games that are being held. In this example, it allows for the holding of up to a predetermined number of special symbol 1 variable games (for example, 2). The second special symbol hold lamp indicates the number of special symbol 2 variable games that are being held. In this example, it allows for the holding of up to a predetermined number of special symbol 2 variable games (for example, 4).

[0029] Furthermore, the high probability lamp indicates that the game state is a high probability state in which a jackpot is likely to occur, or that the game will enter a high probability state. The electric support lamp indicates that the display time for the variation of the normal symbols is shortened. The right-hand shooting indicator lamp indicates that the game is in a jackpot state, a probability variation state, or an electric support state, and that the player can benefit from shooting to the right (a shooting method in which the game ball is launched into the right area of ​​the game area 124). The round indicator lamp indicates the number of rounds (R) in the jackpot game related to the jackpot when a jackpot is won.

[0030] The game board 200 is equipped with a warp device 242 and a stage 244 in the area where the ball can roll. The warp device 242 discharges the ball that enters the warp entrance 242a located on the left side of the game board 200 to the stage 244. The stage 244 is located below and in front of the decorative pattern display device 208, and is the stage on which the ball, after passing through the warp device 242, exhibits movements such as reciprocating motion and rotational motion. On this stage 244, the ball's dwell time is increased as it moves back and forth and rotates.

[0031] In the lower left area of ​​the game area 124, two general prize slots 226a and 226b are located. When a predetermined ball detection sensor (not shown) detects that a ball has entered the left general prize slot 226a (i.e., a ball has entered the general prize slot 226a), the system is configured to dispense a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example). Similarly, when a predetermined ball detection sensor (not shown) detects that a ball has entered the right general prize slot 226b (i.e., a ball has entered the general prize slot 226b), the system is configured to dispense a predetermined number of prize balls (5 in this example).

[0032] In this specification, the balls given to players as a reward for winning are sometimes referred to as "prize balls," and the balls lent to players are sometimes referred to as "loaned balls." Both "prize balls" and "loaned balls" are collectively referred to as "balls (game balls)."

[0033] Located near the center of the game area 124, below the center, is a single ball detection opening 228 equipped with a predetermined ball detection sensor (detection means) capable of detecting a ball launched into the left area of ​​the game area 124. The ball detection opening 228 is a device also known as a ball activation opening, gate, through checker, or center hole. When the predetermined ball detection sensor (detection means) detects that a ball has passed through the ball detection opening 228, it dispenses a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) and starts a ball variation game using a ball display device.

[0034] Furthermore, an attacker unit 800 is provided in the right area of ​​the game area 124, and this attacker unit 800 is equipped with a regular electric mechanism 230, an upper non-electric mechanism 229a, a lower non-electric mechanism 229b, a second special symbol start opening 232, a variable prize entry opening 234, a regular electric operation gate 235, and a general prize entry opening 226c.

[0035] The standard electric mechanism 230 (variable means) is a device equipped with a ball detection sensor (detection means) capable of detecting a ball launched into the right area of ​​the game area 124. The standard electric mechanism 230 is a device called an electric chute and is equipped with a door member that can be opened and closed (details will be described later). When the door member is closed, it is not possible for a ball to enter. When a regular symbol variation game is won and the regular symbol display device stops to show a winning symbol, the door member opens and closes at predetermined time intervals and a predetermined number of times. When the predetermined ball detection sensor (detection means) detects that a ball has entered the standard electric mechanism 230, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed.

[0036] Furthermore, in response to the activation of the standard electric mechanism 230, the distribution unit described later is activated to guide (distribute) the game balls that have entered the standard electric mechanism 230 into one of three routes: one that activates only the upper lever unit 864, one that activates both the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866, and one that does not activate either the upper lever unit 864 or the lower lever unit 866. Then, due to the weight (load) of the game balls flowing down, the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866 are activated, causing the upper non-electric mechanism 229a and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b to open.

[0037] The upper non-electric mechanism 229a (non-electric variable means) is a device equipped with a ball detection sensor (detection means) capable of detecting a ball launched into the right area of ​​the game area 124. When the predetermined ball detection sensor (detection means) detects that a ball guided by the upper non-electric mechanism 229a has entered the first special feature start opening 231a, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the special feature 1 variable game is started by the first special feature display device.

[0038] The lower non-electric mechanism 229b (non-electric variable means) is a device equipped with a ball detection sensor (detection means) capable of detecting a ball launched into the right area of ​​the game area 124. When a predetermined ball detection sensor (third detection means) detects that a ball guided by the lower non-electric mechanism 229b has entered the first special feature start opening 231b, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the special feature 1 variable game is started by the first special feature display device.

[0039] In cases where the first special feature start port 231a of the upper non-electric component 229a and the first special feature start port 231b of the lower non-electric component 229b are not distinguished, they may simply be referred to as "first special feature start port 231".

[0040] Here, non-electric features (non-electric) are those that open and close mechanically rather than electrically, and there are two types: Type 1 non-electric features and Type 2 non-electric features. A Type 1 non-electric feature opens and closes when a ball enters its own winning slot, while a Type 2 non-electric feature opens when a ball enters another winning slot and closes when a ball enters the opened non-electric feature. In this example, the upper non-electric features 229a and the lower non-electric features 229b are classified as Type 2 non-electric features.

[0041] The standard electric operation gate 235 is a device equipped with a ball detection sensor (detection means) capable of detecting a ball launched into the right area of ​​the game area 124. When the predetermined ball detection sensor (detection means) detects that a ball has passed through the standard electric operation gate 235, the standard electric mechanism 230 is activated without performing the standard figure variation game.

[0042] The second special feature start port 232 is a device equipped with a ball detection sensor (detection means) capable of detecting a ball launched into the right region of the game area 124. When the predetermined ball detection sensor (detection means) detects that a ball has entered the second special feature start port 232, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the special feature 2 variable game is started by the second special feature display device.

[0043] The variable prize slot 234 (variable means) is a device also known as a big prize slot or attacker, and is equipped with a door member (not shown) that can be opened and closed. When the door member is closed, it is impossible for balls to enter. When a big win or a small win is achieved in the special feature 1 variable game or special feature 2 variable game, and the big win game is started, the door member opens and closes at predetermined time intervals (for example, an open time of 29 seconds and a closed time of 1.5 seconds) for a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times). When a predetermined ball detection sensor (variable means) detects that a ball has entered the variable prize slot 234, a predetermined number of balls (15 in this example) are dispensed as prize balls. The variable prize slot 234 also has a V-region (specific region) inside through which balls can pass, and when a ball passes through the V-region (specific region) in a small win game, the big win game is started.

[0044] A general prize slot 226c is located in the lower right area of ​​the game area 124. When a predetermined ball detection sensor (not shown) detects that a ball has entered this general prize slot 226c (i.e., a ball has entered the general prize slot 226c), the system is configured to dispense a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example).

[0045] Furthermore, the game area 124 is equipped with a disc-shaped ball direction changing member 236 called a windmill, as well as multiple game nails. Additionally, an outlet 240 is provided at the bottom of the inner rail 204 to circulate balls that do not enter any of the prize-winning or starting openings within the sealed game machine 100.

[0046] As will be explained in detail later using Figure 12, in the enclosed gaming machine 100, the launch motor is driven with an intensity corresponding to the amount the player operates the control handle, and the ball is launched into the game area 124 by the launching rod and launching hammer, passing through the outer rail 202 and the inner rail 204. The ball that reaches the top of the game area 124 then flows downwards, changing direction of travel by the ball direction changing member 236 and game nails, and either enters one of the various prize holes or starting holes, or does not enter any of the prize holes or starting holes, or simply passes through the starting hole 228 and reaches the out hole 240.

[0047] Previously, when a ball entered the first special symbol start opening 231, the special symbol 1 variable game was started by the first special symbol display device, and when a ball entered the second special symbol start opening 232, the special symbol 2 variable game was started by the second special symbol display device. However, it is also possible to change this so that when a ball enters the first special symbol start opening 231, the special symbol 2 variable game is started by the second special symbol display device, and when a ball enters the second special symbol start opening 232, the special symbol 1 variable game is started by the first special symbol display device.

[0048] <Attacker Unit> Next, using Figure 3, we will explain the attacker unit 800 located in the right region of the game area 124. Figure 3 is a front view showing the main parts of the attacker unit 800.

[0049] The attacker unit 800 comprises a vertically elongated rectangular attacker base plate 802 positioned vertically from the upper to the central part of the right-hand region of the game area 124, a horizontally elongated rectangular attacker base plate 804 positioned below the attacker base plate 802 and at the lower part of the right-hand region of the game area 124, and an attacker front plate 806 (see Figure 11(b)) positioned on the front side of the game board 200, covering the attacker base plate 802 and the attacker base plate 804. In Figure 3, for explanatory purposes, the attacker front plate 806 is shown removed from the attacker unit 800.

[0050] <Attacker unit / Attacker base plate> Next, we will describe the device installed on the attacker base plate 802 using Figure 3.

[0051] On the attacker base plate 802, the upper non-electric component 229a, the lower non-electric component 229b, the standard electric component 230, and the upper distribution unit 808 are arranged from top to bottom.

[0052] <Attacker unit / Attacker base plate / Upper non-motorized component, Lower non-motorized component> Next, the upper non-motorized mechanism 229a and the lower non-motorized mechanism 229b will be explained using Figure 4. Figure 4(a) is a front view showing the upper non-motorized mechanism 229a in the open state, and Figure 4(b) is a front view showing the upper non-motorized mechanism 229a in the closed state.

[0053] Since the lower non-electric component 229b has the same structure as the upper non-electric component 229a, the explanation of the upper non-electric component 229a will be replaced with the explanation of the lower non-electric component 229b by substituting the words "upper" for "lower," the code 229a for the code 229b, the upper lever unit 864 for the lower lever unit 866, and the code 231a for the code 231b.

[0054] As shown in Figure 3, the upper non-motorized mechanism 229a (variable means) is configured to include a non-motorized blade unit 810 and a first special design start opening 231a into which a ball guided by the non-motorized blade unit 810 can enter. The first special design start opening 231a consists of an annular member having a through hole through which a ball can pass, and is equipped with a ball detection sensor (detection means; in this example, a proximity sensor) that can detect when a ball has passed through (entered) this through hole.

[0055] As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), the non-electric blade unit 810 is configured to include a rod-shaped shaft pin 812 sandwiched between the attacker base plate 802 and the attacker front plate 806, a non-electric blade cover 814 (rotating part) which is circular in plan view and rotatably fitted onto the shaft pin 812, a first cushion rubber 816a (first restricting part) and a second cushion rubber 816b (second restricting part) that restrict the rotation of the non-electric blade cover 814, a detection part 818 that can detect the state of the non-electric blade cover 814, and an external magnet 819 positioned at a predetermined distance from the non-electric blade cover 814.

[0056] The non-electric vane cover 814 (rotating part) is composed of a circular base portion 814a in plan view, a V-shaped non-electric vane 814b (holding part) disposed on the upper surface of the base portion 814a in plan view, a semicircular operating part 814c that protrudes in a first direction with the outer edge of the base portion 814a as its base end, a trapezoidal regulating piece 814d that protrudes in a second direction with the outer edge of the base portion 814a as its base end, a trapezoidal sensing piece 814e that protrudes in a third direction with the outer edge of the base portion 814a as its base end, and an internal magnet 814f disposed inside the base portion 814a.

[0057] The non-electric blade 814b (holding part) is composed of a first blade part 814b1 and a second blade part 814b2 that form a V shape in plan view, and is a part that can hold a game ball. The lengths of the first blade part 814b1 and the second blade part 814b2 are designed to be such that they cannot support more than two balls (they are long enough to support only one ball), and the first blade part 814b1 and the second blade part 814b2 are configured to intersect at a predetermined angle (for example, 80 degrees), and the inner region formed by the first blade part 814b1 and the second blade part 814b2 can hold only one ball.

[0058] In this example, the upper non-electric mechanism 229a and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b are configured to hold only one ball (they cannot hold two or more balls), thus preventing over-winning and ensuring fairness in the game.

[0059] Furthermore, the second blade portion 814b2 is made of a larger and heavier material than the first blade portion 814b1, and the center of gravity of the non-electric blade cover 814 (rotating portion) is eccentrically positioned closer to the second blade portion 814b2 than to the first blade portion 814b1.

[0060] In this example, when the operation is stopped, it is possible to prevent the upper non-electric component 229a and the lower non-electric component 229b from changing from an open state to a closed state (or from a closed state to an open state) due to external forces such as vibration, and when the operation is started, the upper non-electric component 229a and the lower non-electric component 229b can be smoothly changed from an open state to a closed state (or from a closed state to an open state).

[0061] In order to achieve this effect, the center of gravity of the non-electric blade cover 814 only needs to be eccentrically positioned closer to the second blade portion 814b2 than to the first blade portion 814b1. For example, the first blade portion 814b1 and the second blade portion 814b2 may be made of the same material, and weights may be placed on or near the second blade portion 814b2. Alternatively, the length of the second blade portion 814b2 may be longer than the length of the first blade portion 814b1. The first blade portion 814b1 may also be made of a lighter material than the second blade portion 814b2.

[0062] The operating section 814c is positioned to engage with the upper lever unit 864 (driving means), which will be described later using Figure 8, etc., and is operated by the upper lever unit 864 to change the closed state of the non-electric vane cover 814 to an open state.

[0063] The restricting piece 814d is positioned in the game area 124 so as to be sandwiched between the first cushion rubber 816a and the second cushion rubber 816b, and is a member for restricting the range of rotation of the non-electric blade cover 814.

[0064] Specifically, when the non-electric blade cover 814 rotates clockwise in a plan view, as shown in Figure 4(b), the right end of the restricting piece 814d comes into contact with the left end of the first cushion rubber 816a, thereby restricting the clockwise rotation of the non-electric blade cover 814. In this example, since the impact applied to the non-electric blade cover 814 is mitigated by the first cushion rubber 816a, the non-electric blade cover 814 does not bounce back and rotate counterclockwise (in the opposite direction) or bounce and repeatedly vibrate minutely.

[0065] On the other hand, when the non-electric blade cover 814 rotates counterclockwise in a front view, as shown in Figure 4(a), the left end of the restricting piece 814d comes into contact with the right end of the second cushion rubber 816b, thereby restricting the counterclockwise rotation of the non-electric blade cover 814. In this example, the impact applied to the non-electric blade cover 814 is mitigated by the second cushion rubber 816b, so the non-electric blade cover 814 does not bounce back and rotate clockwise (in the opposite direction) or bounce and repeatedly vibrate minutely.

[0066] The detection unit 818 is composed of a photosensor having a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit, and the detection piece 814e of the non-electric blade cover 814 is configured to pass between the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit of this photosensor. Based on the detection result from the detection unit 818, the main control unit 300 can detect whether the non-electric blade cover 814 is in the open state shown in Figure 4(a) or in the closed state shown in Figure 4(b).

[0067] The external magnet 819 is a magnet positioned so that it faces the same magnetic field (for example, the north pole) as the internal magnet 814f of the non-electric vane cover 814. The external magnet 819 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the base portion 814a of the non-electric vane cover 814, and is configured so that a repulsive force acts between the external magnet 819 and the internal magnet 814f.

[0068] Next, the operation of the upper non-motorized component 229a will be explained.

[0069] When the operating part 814c of the non-electric blade cover 814 is pressed upward by the upper lever unit 864, which will be described later using Figure 8, the non-electric blade cover 814 is rotated counterclockwise in a plan view, and finally, as shown in Figure 4(a), the left end of the restricting piece 814d of the non-electric blade cover 814 and the right end of the second cushion rubber 816b come into contact, and the detection piece 814e of the non-electric blade cover 814 blocks the light emitted from the light-emitting part of the detection unit 818 (the detection unit 818 is in the ON state).

[0070] In this state, the first blade portion 814b1 and the second blade portion 814b2 of the non-electric blade 814b are open upwards, so the upper non-electric mechanism 229a is in an open state in which it can hold the ball flowing down from above with the first blade portion 814b1 and the second blade portion 814b2. The main control unit 300 can detect that the upper non-electric mechanism 229a is in an open state by detecting that the detection unit 818 is in an ON state. Therefore, if an ON state (open state) is detected when it should be in a closed state, the unit may be configured to issue an error notification.

[0071] Furthermore, because the internal magnet 814f and the external magnet 819 of the non-electric blade cover 814 repel each other, an external force acts on the non-electric blade cover 814 in a counterclockwise direction. This maintains the open state of the non-electric blade cover 814 and prevents it from changing from an open state to a closed state due to external forces such as vibration.

[0072] Furthermore, the center of gravity of the non-electric blade cover 814 is eccentrically positioned closer to the second blade portion 814b2 than to the first blade portion 814b1, and in the open state, the second blade portion 814b2 of the non-electric blade cover 814 is located to the left of the axis pin 812, which is the pivot point of the non-electric blade cover 814, so that an external force acts on the non-electric blade cover 814 in a counterclockwise direction. As a result, the open state of the non-electric blade cover 814 is maintained, preventing the non-electric blade cover 814 from changing from the open state to the closed state due to external forces such as vibration when operation is stopped, and allowing the non-electric blade cover 814 to smoothly change from the open state to the closed state when operation starts.

[0073] Meanwhile, as a ball flows down from above, it enters the space formed by the first blade portion 814b1 and the second blade portion 814b2 of the open non-electric blade 814b. When the ball is held by the first blade portion 814b1 and the second blade portion 814b2, the weight of the ball causes the first blade portion 814b1 to be pressed downward. When the first blade portion 814b1 is pressed downward, the non-electric blade 814b rotates clockwise in a front view, and the ball, which was held by the first blade portion 814b1 and the second blade portion 814b2, is guided to the first special feature start opening 231a and enters the first special feature start opening 231a.

[0074] In this example, the upper non-electric mechanism 229a (variable means) changes from an open state to a closed state by the weight of the ball that enters the game area 124, and can also guide this ball to the first special feature start opening 231a (a certain detection means). Therefore, even with a non-electric variable means, the structure of the drive means for the variable means can be simplified, and space can be saved in the game area 124.

[0075] Furthermore, when the non-electric blade 814b is rotated clockwise in a front view, eventually, as shown in Figure 4(b), the right end of the restricting piece 814d of the non-electric blade cover 814 and the left end of the first cushion rubber 816a come into contact, and the detection piece 814e of the non-electric blade cover 814 does not block the light emitted from the light-emitting part of the detection unit 818 (the detection unit 818 is in the OFF state).

[0076] In this state, the first blade portion 814b1 and the second blade portion 814b2 of the non-electric blade 814b are open to the right, so the upper non-electric mechanism 229a is closed, unable to hold the ball flowing down from above by the first blade portion 814b1 and the second blade portion 814b2. The main control unit 300 can detect that the upper non-electric mechanism 229a is in a closed state by detecting that the detection unit 818 is in the OFF state. Therefore, the unit may be configured to issue an error notification when it detects an OFF state (closed state) in a state that should be open.

[0077] Furthermore, because the internal magnet 814f and the external magnet 819 of the non-electric blade cover 814 repel each other, an external force acts on the non-electric blade cover 814 in a clockwise rotational direction. This maintains the closed state of the non-electric blade cover 814 and prevents it from changing from a closed state to an open state due to external forces such as vibration.

[0078] Furthermore, the center of gravity of the non-electric blade cover 814 is eccentrically positioned closer to the second blade portion 814b2 than to the first blade portion 814b1, and in the closed state, the second blade portion 814b2 of the non-electric blade cover 814 is located to the right of the axis pin 812, which is the pivot point of the non-electric blade cover 814. As a result, an external force acts on the non-electric blade cover 814 in a clockwise rotational direction. Therefore, the closed state of the non-electric blade cover 814 is maintained, preventing the non-electric blade cover 814 from changing from the closed state to the open state due to external forces such as vibration when operation is stopped, and allowing the non-electric blade cover 814 to smoothly change from the closed state to the open state when operation starts.

[0079] In this example, the upper non-electric mechanism 229a was used as a device to guide the ball to the first special feature start opening 231a, but the present invention is not limited to this and may also be used as a device to guide the ball to other prize winning openings (for example, the variable prize winning opening 234) or start openings (for example, the second special feature start opening 232).

[0080] <Attacker unit / Attacker base plate / Standard electric component> Next, we will explain the standard electric mechanism 230 using Figure 3.

[0081] The standard electric mechanism 230 (variable means) is configured to include a door drive unit 820, an electric tuner door 822 and an electric tuner sensor front door 824 driven by the door drive unit 820, and a ball entry opening 826 into which balls guided by the electric tuner door 822 can enter.

[0082] The ball entry opening 826 of the standard electric mechanism 230 consists of an annular member having a through hole through which a ball can pass, and is equipped with a ball detection sensor (detection means; in this example, a proximity sensor) that can detect when a ball has passed through this through hole (entered).

[0083] The door drive unit 820 is configured to include a stepping motor and the like, and is capable of opening and closing the electric tuner door 822 and the electric tuner sensor front door 824 by a drive mechanism (not shown).

[0084] The electric chute door 822 is made of a plate-shaped member and is a door member that can change from one state to the other: a closed state in which it stands upright in the vertical direction along the surface of the attacker base plate 802 and cannot store balls flowing down from above, and an open state in which it rotates (tilts) towards the front with the attacker base plate 802 as the pivot point and can store balls flowing down from above.

[0085] The front door 824 of the electric tuner sensor is a plate-shaped member that engages with the electric tuner door 822. When the electric tuner door 822 is closed, it is in a closed state where balls cannot be guided into the ball entry opening 826. When the electric tuner door 822 is open, it is in an open state where balls stored in the electric tuner door 822 can be guided into the ball entry opening 826.

[0086] In this specification, the opening of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 means that the electric tuner door 822 is open and the electric tuner sensor front door 824 is open, and the closing of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 means that the electric tuner door 822 is closed and the electric tuner sensor front door 824 is closed, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0087] In other words, the open state of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 is sufficient if it is possible for a ball to enter the ball entry opening 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230, and the closed state of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 is sufficient if it is impossible (or difficult) for a ball to enter the ball entry opening 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230, and its structure is not particularly limited. Therefore, for example, the ordinary electric mechanism 230 may be equipped with only one door member, and the door member may be able to change from one state to the other, either an open state in which a ball can enter the ball entry opening 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 or a closed state in which a ball cannot enter the ball entry opening 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230.

[0088] <Attacker unit / Attacker base plate / Upper distribution unit> Next, the upper distribution unit 808 will be explained using Figure 3.

[0089] The upper distribution unit 808 comprises a drive motor 808a consisting of a stepping motor, a motor mount 808b for fixing the drive motor 808a to the attacker base plate 802, and a distribution valve 808c that is rotationally driven by the drive motor 808a and can move from one position to the other between a first position (hereinafter, the state in the first position may be referred to as "ON") and a second position (hereinafter, the state in the second position may be referred to as "OFF").

[0090] As will be explained in more detail using Figure 10, this upper distribution unit 808 is a device that, by switching the distribution valve 808c ON and OFF, can distribute the balls that have entered the ball entry port 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 to either the first distribution passage 858a or the second distribution passage 858b of the distribution passages 858, which will be explained later using Figure 7.

[0091] <Attacker unit / Attacker base plate underside> Next, using Figure 3, we will describe the device installed under the attacker base plate 804.

[0092] Below the attacker base plate 804, there is a variable prize entry opening 234, a standard operation gate 235, and a second special feature start opening 232.

[0093] The variable prize slot 234 (variable means) has the same structure as a conventional large prize slot or attacker, so a detailed explanation will be omitted, but it is composed of a door drive unit (not shown) which has a stepping motor or the like, a plate-shaped door member (not shown) which is driven by this door drive unit and can be opened and closed, and a ball entry opening 828 into which balls that flow down while the door member is open can enter. The ball entry opening 828 of the variable prize slot 234 is made of an annular member which has a through hole through which a ball can pass, and is equipped with a ball detection sensor (detection means; in this example, a proximity sensor) which can detect when a ball has passed through this through hole (entered).

[0094] The standard operating gate 235 consists of an annular member having a through hole through which a ball can pass, and is equipped with a ball detection sensor (detection means; in this example, a proximity sensor) capable of detecting when a ball has passed through (entered) this through hole.

[0095] The second special designation starting port 232 has the same structure as the conventional device called the special designation starting port 2, so a detailed explanation will be omitted, but it comprises a ball entry port 829 which is a through hole through which a ball can enter, a ball passage (not shown) communicating with the ball entry port 829, and a ball detection sensor (detection means; in this example, a proximity sensor) that can detect when a ball has passed through (entered) the ball passage.

[0096] <Back passage unit> Next, the rear passage unit 850, which is located behind the attacker unit 800, will be described using Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a front view showing the main parts of the rear passage unit 850, and Figure 6 is a rear view showing the main parts of the rear passage unit 850.

[0097] The back passage unit 850 is composed of a horizontally elongated back passage base 852 positioned horizontally from the lower left area to the lower right area of ​​the game area 124, a back passage cover 854 positioned on the left rear side of the back passage base 852, and an attacker back passage unit 856 positioned on the right rear side of the back passage base 852.

[0098] The back passage cover 854 includes a ball passage 854a through which a ball that has entered the general prize opening 226a can pass, a ball passage 854b through which a ball that has entered the general prize opening 226b can pass, and a ball passage 854c through which a ball that has entered the general starting opening 228 can pass.

[0099] The attacker back passage unit 856 comprises a distribution passage 858, a lower distribution unit 860 that distributes balls that enter the distribution passage 858 to predetermined ball passages within the distribution passage 858, and a link unit 862 (upper lever unit 864, lower lever unit 866) that operates the upper non-electric mechanism 229a and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b.

[0100] <Back passage unit / Lower distribution unit> Next, using Figure 7, we will describe the lower distribution unit 860 installed in the attacker back passage unit 856.

[0101] Figure 7(a) is a front view showing the main parts of the attacker back passage unit 856, and Figure 7(b) is a rear view showing the main parts of the attacker back passage unit 856.

[0102] The lower distribution unit 860 comprises a drive motor 860a consisting of a stepping motor, a motor mount 860b for fixing the drive motor 860a to the distribution passage 858, and a distribution valve 860c that is rotationally driven by the drive motor 860a and can move from one position to the other between a first position (hereinafter, the state in the first position may be referred to as "ON") and a second position (hereinafter, the state in the second position may be referred to as "OFF").

[0103] As will be explained in more detail later using Figure 10, the lower distribution unit 860 is a device that, by switching the distribution valve 860c ON and OFF, can distribute the balls that enter the ball entry port 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 and are then distributed by the upper distribution unit 808 to either the first distribution passage 858a or the second distribution passage 858b shown in Figure 7(b).

[0104] <Back passage unit / Link unit> Next, with reference to Figures 8 and 9, the link unit 862 installed in the attacker back passage unit 856 will be described.

[0105] Figure 8(a) is a front view showing the upper non-electric component 229a and lower non-electric component 229b, and the upper lever unit 864 and lower lever unit 866 extracted from the attacker unit 800 and back passage unit 850, and Figure 8(b) is a rear view of Figure 8(a) viewed from the rear. Furthermore, Figure 9(a) is a partially enlarged front view showing a portion of the upper lever unit 864 and lower lever unit 866 viewed from the front, and Figure 9(b) is a partially enlarged perspective view showing a portion of the upper lever unit 864 and lower lever unit 866 viewed from an oblique angle.

[0106] The link unit 862 is configured to include an upper lever unit 864 that operates the upper non-electric mechanism 229a and a lower lever unit 866 that operates the lower non-electric mechanism 229b.

[0107] <Back passage unit / Link unit / Upper lever unit, Lower lever unit> Next, the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866 of the link unit 862 will be described using Figures 7 to 9.

[0108] Since the lower lever unit 866 has almost the same structure as the upper lever unit 864, the description of the upper lever unit 864 will be replaced with the description of the lower lever unit 866 by substituting the words "upper" for "lower," the code 864 for the code 866, and the upper non-electric component 229a for the lower non-electric component 229b.

[0109] The upper lever unit 864 comprises an upper lever 864b (actuator; 864b1 to 864b4) rotatably fitted onto a lever shaft pin 864a, an upper link 864c (driver) which is a rod-shaped body that is driven by the upper lever 864b and can move upward (indicated by the letter X1 in Figure 8(a)) or downward (indicated by the letter X2 in Figure 8(a)), an upper link spring 864d (see Figure 7) that supports the upper link 864c, and a detection unit 864e (see Figure 7) that can detect the state of the upper lever 864b.

[0110] The upper lever 864b is composed of a beak-shaped lever operating portion 864b1, a lever projection piece 864b2 extending in the opposite direction from the lever operating portion 864b1, a lever engaging piece 864b3 (see Figures 7(b) and 8(b)) projecting toward the rear side of the projection piece 864b2, and a lever restricting piece 864b4 (see Figures 8(a), 9(a), and 9(b)) extending above the lever operating portion 864b1.

[0111] The lever operating part 864b1 is a member that can rotate clockwise (in the direction indicated by the reference numeral Y1 in Figure 8(a)) or counterclockwise (in the direction indicated by the reference numeral Y2 in Figure 8(a)) in a plan view around the lever shaft pin 864a, and as shown in Figure 7(b), its tip is positioned to protrude in a position that can contact the ball passing through the first distribution passage 858a.

[0112] The upper link 864c is made of a rod-shaped member, and its upper edge is provided with an upper arm portion 864c1 that extends horizontally and can contact the operating portion 814c (see Figure 4) of the upper non-motorized component 229a. The lower edge is provided with a lever engagement hole 864c2 (see Figures 7(b) and 8(b)) into which the lever engagement piece 864b3 of the upper lever 864b can be inserted and engaged, and a protruding portion 864c3 (regulating portion; see Figures 9(a) and 9(b)) that can contact the lever regulating piece 864b4 of the upper lever 864b.

[0113] The detection unit 864e shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b) is composed of a photosensor having a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit, and the lever protruding piece 864b2 of the upper lever 864b is configured to pass between the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit of this photosensor. Based on the detection result from this detection unit 864e, the state of the upper lever 864b and the upper link 864c driven by it can be detected.

[0114] Next, we will explain the operation of the upper lever unit 864.

[0115] In the initial state when the upper lever unit 864 is not operating, the upper link 864c is biased downward by the upper link spring 864d. As a result, the lever engaging piece 864b3 of the upper lever 864b is pushed downward by the lever engaging hole 864c2 of the upper link 864c, and rotates counterclockwise in a plan view around the lever shaft pin 864a (in the direction indicated by the symbol Y2 in Figure 8(a)). The lever operating portion 864b1 of the upper lever 864b is in a standby state with its tip protruding onto the passage of the first distribution passage 858a.

[0116] When the lever operating portion 864b1 of the upper lever 864b is in a standby state, if a ball passing through the first distribution passage 858a rides onto the lever operating portion 864b1 of the upper lever 864b, the upper lever 864b rotates clockwise in a plan view around the lever shaft pin 864a due to the weight of the ball (in the direction indicated by the symbol Y1 in Figure 8(a)), and the lever engagement hole 864c2 of the upper link 864c is pushed upward by the lever engagement piece 864b3 of the upper lever 864b, causing the upper link 864c to move upward (in the direction indicated by the symbol X1 in Figure 8(a)).

[0117] When the upper link 864c moves upward, the upper arm portion 864c1 of the upper link 864c pushes the operating portion 814c of the upper non-motorized mechanism 229a upward, causing the closed upper non-motorized mechanism 229a to rotate counterclockwise in a plan view (indicated by the letter Y4 in Figure 8(a)) and open. In other words, the upper lever unit 864 functions as a switch that changes the closed upper non-motorized mechanism 229a to an open state through the action of balls that enter the ball entry port 826 of the normal motorized mechanism 230 and then pass through the first distribution passage 858a.

[0118] Furthermore, when the ball that has landed on the lever operating portion 864b1 of the upper lever 864b falls downward from the lever operating portion 864b1 as the upper lever 864b rotates clockwise (in the direction indicated by the symbol Y1 in Figure 8(a)), the upper link 864c is biased downward by the upper link spring 864d, and the lever operating portion 864b1 of the upper lever 864b returns to a standby state with its tip protruding onto the passage of the first distribution passage 858a.

[0119] Similarly, with respect to the lower lever unit 866, when the lever operating portion 866b1 of the lower lever 866b is in a standby state, if a ball passing through the first distribution passage 858a rides onto the lever operating portion 866b1 of the lower lever 866b, the lower lever 866b rotates clockwise in a plan view around the lever shaft pin 866a due to the weight of the ball (in the direction indicated by the symbol Y1 in Figure 8(a)), and the lever engagement hole 866c2 of the lower link 866c is pushed upward by the lever engagement piece 866b3 of the lower lever 866b, causing the lower link 866c to move upward (in the direction indicated by the symbol X1 in Figure 8(a)).

[0120] When the lower link 866c moves upward, the upper arm portion 866c1 of the lower link 866c pushes the operating portion 814c of the lower non-motorized mechanism 229b upward, causing the closed lower non-motorized mechanism 229b to rotate counterclockwise in a plan view (indicated by the letter Y4 in Figure 8(a)) and open. In other words, the lower lever unit 866 functions as a switch that changes the closed lower non-motorized mechanism 229b to an open state through the action of balls that enter the ball entry port 826 of the normal motorized mechanism 230 and then pass through the first distribution passage 858a.

[0121] As explained above, the first distribution passage 858a of the distribution passages 858 is a ball passage that can change the upper non-electric mechanism 229a and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, which are in a closed state, to an open state, and is therefore sometimes referred to as the "non-electric open route 858a" hereafter. On the other hand, the second distribution passage 858b of the distribution passages 858 is a ball passage that cannot change the upper non-electric mechanism 229a and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, which are in a closed state, to an open state, and is therefore sometimes referred to as the "non-electric unopened route 858b" hereafter.

[0122] As shown in enlarged view in Figures 9(a) and (b), when the tip of the lever operating portion 864b1 of the upper lever 864b is in a standby state protruding onto the passage of the first distribution passage 858a, the projection 864c3 formed on the lower edge of the upper link 864c is positioned above the lever restricting piece 864b4 of the upper lever 864b.

[0123] Therefore, even if the upper lever 864b in the standby state is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise in a plan view, the lever restricting piece 864b4 will not come into contact with the protrusion 864c3 of the upper link 864c. However, the downward movement of the upper link 864c is restricted by the lever restricting piece 864b4 of the upper lever 864b.

[0124] In this example, the upper lever 864b is equipped with a lever restricting piece 864b4 that restricts the vertical movement of the upper link 864c, thereby preventing situations in which the upper link 864c is activated by vibration or fraudulent activity, causing the closed upper non-motorized component 229a to change to an open state.

[0125] <Operation of the distribution unit> Next, the operation of the upper distribution unit 808 and the lower distribution unit 860 will be explained using Figure 10.

[0126] Figure 10(a) is a front view showing the main parts of the attacker unit 800 and the attacker back passage unit 856, Figure 10(b) is an enlarged view showing the area around the upper distribution unit 808, and Figure 10(c) is an enlarged view showing the area around the lower distribution unit 860.

[0127] The enclosed gaming machine 100 includes an upper distribution unit 808, as described with reference to Figure 3, and a lower distribution unit 860, as described with reference to Figure 7. In this specification, the upper distribution unit 808 and the lower distribution unit 860 are sometimes collectively referred to as "distribution units 808 and 860." In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the upper distribution unit 808 is arranged in the attacker unit 800 and the lower distribution unit 860 is arranged in the attacker back passage unit 856, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and both may be arranged in the same unit.

[0128] As explained using Figure 3, the upper distribution unit 808 is a device that, by switching the distribution valve 808c ON and OFF, can distribute balls that have entered the ball entry port 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 (balls that have passed through the ball entry port 826) to either the first distribution passage 858a (non-electrically open route) or the second distribution passage 858b (non-electrically closed route) of the distribution passages 858.

[0129] Specifically, when the distribution valve 808c of the upper distribution unit 808 is OFF (when the distribution valve 808c is moved to the second position indicated by the reference numeral 808cOFF in Figure 10(b)), ball BL1 that enters the ball entry port 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 is prevented from entering the non-electric open route 858a by the distribution valve 808c and is instead distributed to the non-electric closed route 858b. As a result, neither the upper lever unit 864 nor the lower lever unit 866 operates (non-electric 1 and non-electric 2 remain closed).

[0130] On the other hand, when the distribution valve 808c is ON (when the distribution valve 808c is in the first position indicated by the symbol 808cON in Figure 10(b)), balls BL1 that enter the ball entry port 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 are guided by the distribution valve 808c to the non-electric open route 858a and distributed to the non-electric open route 858a. As a result, the lower lever unit 866 is activated by the action of the balls passing through the non-electric open route 858a, and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, which is in a closed state, changes to an open state (non-electric 2 opens).

[0131] Furthermore, as explained using Figure 7, the lower distribution unit 860 is a device that, by switching the distribution valve 860c ON and OFF, can redistribute balls that have entered the ball entry port 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 and been distributed to the non-electric open route 858a by the upper distribution unit 808 back to either the non-electric open route 858a or the non-electric unopened route 858b.

[0132] Specifically, when the distribution valve 860c of the lower distribution unit 860 is ON (when the distribution valve 860c is in the second position indicated by the symbol 860cON in Figure 10(c)), ball BL2, which has been distributed to the non-electric open route 858a by the upper distribution unit 808, is prevented from entering the non-electric unopened route 858b by the distribution valve 860c, and instead passes through the non-electric open route 858a and is distributed to the non-electric open route 858a. As a result, the action of the ball passing through the non-electric open route 858a activates the upper lever unit 864, and the upper non-electric mechanism 229a, which is in a closed state, changes to an open state (non-electric 1 opens).

[0133] On the other hand, when the distribution valve 860c is OFF (when the distribution valve 860c is moved to the first position indicated by the symbol 860cOFF in Figure 10(c)), the sphere BL2 that was distributed to the non-electric open route 858a by the upper distribution unit 808 is guided to the non-electric closed route 858b by the distribution valve 860c and distributed to the non-electric closed route 858b. Therefore, the upper lever unit 864 does not operate (non-electric 1 remains closed).

[0134] As explained above, when the distribution valve 808c of the upper distribution unit 808 is OFF, balls that enter the ball entry port 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 are distributed to the non-electric, unopened route 858b by the upper distribution unit 808, regardless of the lower distribution unit 860, and neither the upper lever unit 864 nor the lower lever unit 866 is activated.

[0135] From this point forward, the route by which a ball that has entered the ball entry port 826 of the standard electric mechanism 230 is guided to a ball passage that does not activate either the upper lever unit 864 or the lower lever unit 866 is sometimes called the "non-electric, unopened route," and the act of not activating either the upper lever unit 864 or the lower lever unit 866 is sometimes referred to as "setting the distribution units 808 and 860 to the non-electric, unopened route."

[0136] Furthermore, when the distribution valve 808c of the upper distribution unit 808 is ON and the distribution valve 860c of the lower distribution unit 860 is OFF, balls that enter the ball entry port 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 are distributed by the upper distribution unit 808 to the non-electric open route 858a, which activates the lower lever unit 866 and changes the closed state of the lower non-electric mechanism 229b to an open state. After that, the balls are distributed by the lower distribution unit 860 to the non-electric unopened route 858b, and the lower lever unit 866 is not activated.

[0137] From this point forward, the route by which a ball that has entered the ball entry port 826 of the standard electric mechanism 230 is guided to a ball passage that activates only the upper lever unit 864 is sometimes called the "single non-electric open route," and the act of activating only the upper lever unit 864 and not activating the lower distribution unit 860 is sometimes called "setting the distribution units 808 and 860 to the single non-electric open route."

[0138] In this example, when the distribution valve 808c of the upper distribution unit 808 is ON and the distribution valve 860c of the lower distribution unit 860 is OFF, the system is configured to change only the closed lower non-motorized component 229b to an open state. However, it is also possible to configure the system to change only the closed upper non-motorized component 229a to an open state.

[0139] Furthermore, when the distribution valve 808c of the upper distribution unit 808 is ON and the distribution valve 860c of the lower distribution unit 860 is ON, balls that enter the ball entry port 826 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 are distributed to the non-electric open route 858a by the upper distribution unit 808, which activates the upper lever unit 864 to change the closed state of the lower non-electric mechanism 229b to an open state. Then, the balls are distributed to the non-electric open route 858a by the lower distribution unit 860, which activates the lower lever unit 866 to change the closed state of the upper non-electric mechanism 229a to an open state.

[0140] From this point forward, the route by which a ball that has entered the ball entry port 826 of the standard electric mechanism 230 is guided to a ball passage that activates both the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866 may be called the "non-electric two-open route," and activating both the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866 may be called "setting the distribution units 808 and 860 to the non-electric two-open route."

[0141] Thus, both the upper distribution unit 808 and the lower distribution unit 860 are configured to distribute to the non-electric open route 858a when the distribution valves 808c and 860c are ON. In other words, even if a game ball enters the ball entry port 826 of the normal electric mechanism 230 at a time when it should not be (when the normal electric mechanism 230 is closed) due to cheating, the distribution valves 808c and 860c are OFF, so neither the upper non-electric mechanism 229a nor the lower non-electric mechanism 229b will open, thus preventing cheating.

[0142] <Ball passage> Next, using Figure 11, we will explain the ball passages of the enclosed gaming machine 100.

[0143] Figure 11(a) is a drawing corresponding to Figure 3, and is a front view of the attacker base plate upper 802 and attacker base plate lower 804 of the attacker unit 800, viewed from the front. Figure 11(b) is a rear view of the attacker front plate 806 of the attacker unit 800, viewed from the rear.

[0144] As explained with reference to Figure 10, the attacker back passage unit 856 includes at least a distribution passage 858 having a first distribution passage 858a and a second distribution passage 858b.

[0145] On the other hand, the attacker unit 800, which is positioned in front of the attacker back passage unit 856, is equipped with a spherical passage formed by the upper part of the attacker base plate 802 shown in Figure 11(a) and the upper part of the attacker front plate 806 shown in Figure 11(b), and a spherical passage formed by the lower part of the attacker base plate 804 shown in Figure 11(a) and the lower part of the attacker front plate 806 shown in Figure 11(b). In this example, it is equipped with at least the first spherical passage 800a to the sixth spherical passage 800f.

[0146] The first ball passage 800a is a ball passage capable of guiding a ball launched into the right area of ​​the game area 124 toward the upper non-electric mechanism 229a, and the second ball passage 800b is a ball passage capable of guiding a ball launched into the right area of ​​the game area 124 toward the lower non-electric mechanism 229b.

[0147] The third ball passage 800c is a ball passage that can guide balls that did not enter the upper non-electric mechanism 229a or the lower non-electric mechanism 229b toward the door members of the normal electric mechanism 230 (electric tuner door 822 and electric tuner sensor front door 824). The fourth ball passage 800d is a ball passage that can guide balls that did not enter the upper non-electric mechanism 229a, the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, or the normal electric mechanism 230 toward the downstream fifth ball passage 800e or sixth ball passage 800f.

[0148] The fifth ball passage 800e is a ball passage that can guide balls that have passed through the fourth ball passage 800d to the standard operation gate 235 or the ball entry opening 829 of the second special start opening 232, and the sixth ball passage 800f is a ball passage through which balls that have entered the variable prize opening 234 pass.

[0149] In this example, the time from when a ball launched into the right area of ​​the game area 124 (second game area) passes a certain point (first point) in the right area of ​​the game area 124 until it is detected by the normal electric operation gate 235 (detection means) (in this example, an average of about 4 seconds) is longer than the pre-set non-operation time after the normal electric device 230 (variable means) is activated in response to the passing of the normal electric operation gate 235 during a time-saving game (time-saving game state 1 or time-saving game state 2) in which a ball can enter the normal electric device 230.

[0150] Here, "a certain point in the right region of the game area 124" refers to a point below the point where the lower non-electric mechanism 229b is installed, indicated by the symbol PT in Figure 11(a) (the point directly below the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, or the point immediately after the ball does not enter the lower non-electric mechanism 229b). Furthermore, "the preset non-operation time after the activation of the normal electric mechanism 230 (variable means) which was activated triggered by passing through the normal electric operation gate during a time-saving game (time-saving game state 1 or time-saving game state 2) in which a ball can enter the normal electric mechanism 230" is the sum of the closing time in Figure 23(c) and the ED time in Figure 23(d).

[0151] Furthermore, the non-operating time may be limited to the closing time only, or the closing time only, but in either case, the non-operating time must be longer than the time (in this example, approximately 4 seconds on average) from when a ball launched into the right region of the game region 124 (the second game region) passes a certain point (the first point) in the right region of the game region 124 until it is detected by the normal operation gate 235 (detection means).

[0152] For example, during a time-saving game in which a ball can enter the regular electric mechanism 230 (for example, time-saving game state 1), when a ball enters the regular electric mechanism 230, if there is a ball BL at a certain point PT and no subsequent balls, and the non-operation time of the regular electric mechanism 230 (closing time + ED time, closing time, ED time) is shorter than the time it takes for this ball BL to pass through the fourth ball passage 800d or the fifth ball passage 800e and reach the regular electric operation gate 235 (in this example, an average of about 4 seconds), then when the ball passes through the regular electric operation gate 235, the non-operation time of the regular electric mechanism 230 will have ended, and the ball will be able to pass through the regular electric operation gate 235, causing the regular electric mechanism 230 to open again.

[0153] Then, if you resume shooting to the right the moment the ball passes through the normal operating gate 235, the ball will enter either the upper non-electric mechanism 229a or the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, causing the special feature 1 to start rotating and immediately resulting in a jackpot, thus ending the time-saving game. However, since the normal electric mechanism 230 is already open, it is possible to enter the normal electric mechanism 230, causing either the upper non-electric mechanism 229a or the lower non-electric mechanism 229b to open again, making it possible to win another jackpot.

[0154] On the other hand, if the non-operating time of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 is longer than the time it takes for a ball BL at a certain point PT to pass through the fourth ball passage 800d or the fifth ball passage 800e and reach the ordinary electric operation gate 235 (in this example, an average of about 4 seconds), then when the ball passes through the ordinary electric operation gate 235, the ordinary electric mechanism 230 is still in a non-operating state, so the passage of the ball through the ordinary electric operation gate 235 is invalid, and the ordinary electric mechanism 230 does not open.

[0155] Therefore, according to this example, even if a ball enters the regular electric mechanism 230 during shortened play and there is a ball BL at a certain point PT and no subsequent balls, it becomes impossible to enter the regular electric mechanism 230 again, thus preventing exploitative play.

[0156] <Flow of sealed gaming machines / game balls> Next, the flow of game balls in the sealed-type gaming machine 100 will be explained using Figure 12. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of game balls in the sealed-type gaming machine 100.

[0157] In the enclosed gaming machine 100, the gaming balls stored in the ball storage cover 712 located inside the lower door 108 are transported (lifted) via a lifting device (transport device) 714 and a ball polishing device 716 to the upper passage 736 of the ball lifting upper passage unit 718, and then supplied to the launch position of the launch rail 149 of the launch device 140 via a ball feeding device 127.

[0158] Next, the launch solenoid 632 (see Figure 13) of the launching device 140 is driven with an intensity corresponding to the amount the player operates the ball launching handle 134, and the launching rod 146 and launching hammer 148 of the launching device 140 launch the game balls toward the game board 200. Game balls that do not reach the game board 200 (foul balls (returned balls) FB) fall into the foul ball passage 764, pass through the foul ball detection sensor (proximity sensor) 616 which is capable of detecting game balls passing through this foul ball passage 764, and are then discharged into the ball storage cover 712.

[0159] Once the game ball reaches the top of the game board 200, it falls downwards, changing direction as it moves due to the ball direction changing member and game nails, and either enters a prize entry point (general prize entry points 226a~226c, normal electric mechanism 230, variable prize entry point 234, etc.) or a starter entry point (normal starter entry point 228, upper non-electric mechanism 229a, lower non-electric mechanism 229b, normal electric operation gate 235, second special starter entry point 232, etc.), or it reaches the out entry point 240 without entering any prize entry point or starter entry point, or simply by passing through the normal starter entry point.

[0160] Game balls that enter the prize slots or start slots of the game board 200 pass through the prize ball passage 760 (distribution passage 858, etc.) located on the back side of the game board 200, while game balls that do not enter the prize slots or start slots pass through the out slot 240 at the bottom of the game board 200 and through the out ball passage 762 located on the back side of the game board 200, and in each case enter the first rail 752 of the lower passage 750, roll inside the first rail 752 along the slope of the first rail 752 and reach the downstream side of the first rail 752.

[0161] Game balls that enter the second rail 756 from the first rail 752 of the lower passage 750 roll inside the second rail 756 along the incline of the second rail 756, are stored in the ball storage cover 712, and are then transported (lifted) by the lifting device 714 while dust and dirt adhering to the surface are removed by the ball polishing device 716.

[0162] The game balls transported by the lifting device 714 enter the upper passage 736 of the ball lifting upper passage unit 718 and roll along it, passing through a subtraction sensor (proximity sensor) 618 capable of detecting game balls passing through the upper passage 736. After passing through this subtraction sensor 618, the game balls are discharged into the launching device ball passage 748 by the ball feeding solenoid 634 of the ball feeding device 127, and then guided through the launching device ball passage 748 to the launching rail 149 of the launching device 140.

[0163] As explained above, the enclosed game machine 100 is similar to conventional pinball game machines (pachinko machines) in that the player plays by launching game balls onto the game board 200. However, unlike conventional pinball game machines (pachinko machines), the minimum number of game balls required for launching are circulated within the game machine, and along the circulation, there are launching devices 140, ball feeding devices 127, ball polishing devices 716, lifting devices 714, etc., and there are no upper or lower trays, so the player is basically unable to directly touch the game balls.

[0164] Furthermore, in the enclosed-type gaming machine 100, the speed at which the gaming balls are transported (lifted) by the lifting device 714 (200 balls per minute in this example) is set to be faster than the speed at which the gaming balls are launched by the launching device 140 (100 balls per minute in this example). Therefore, it is possible to prevent situations in which the launching device 140 runs out of gaming balls and the game is interrupted.

[0165] In addition, in the enclosed gaming machine 100, although it varies depending on the number and arrangement of ball direction changing members and game pins on the game board 200, the cycle in which the game balls circulate (the time from when a game ball is launched from the launching device 140 toward the game board 200 until the same game ball returns to the launching device 140) is approximately 28 seconds.

[0166] <Department Head> Next, the circuit configuration of the control unit of this enclosed gaming machine 100 will be explained in detail using Figure 13. Figure 13 shows a circuit block diagram of the control unit of the enclosed gaming machine 100.

[0167] The control unit of the enclosed gaming machine 100 is broadly composed of a main control unit 300 that controls the central part of the game, a first sub-control unit 400 that mainly controls the effects in response to command signals (hereinafter simply referred to as "commands") transmitted by the main control unit 300, a second sub-control unit 500 that controls various devices based on commands transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400, a frame control unit 600 that mainly controls the supply of game balls in response to commands transmitted by the main control unit 300, a launch control unit 630 that controls the launch of game balls, and a power supply control unit 660 that controls the power supplied to the enclosed gaming machine 100.

[0168] <Main Control Unit> First, let's describe the main control unit 300 of the enclosed gaming machine 100. The main control unit 300 is equipped with a basic circuit 302 that controls the entire system. This basic circuit 302 includes a CPU 304, a ROM 306 for storing control programs and various data, and a RAM 308 for temporarily storing data.

[0169] The basic circuit 302 is equipped with a sensor circuit that receives signals output by various sensors 320 (sensors (detection means) that detect game balls passing through each start opening, prize opening, and variable prize opening, front frame door opening sensor, inner frame opening sensor, etc.), a drive circuit for controlling the display of special symbol display devices (first special symbol display device, second special symbol display device), a drive circuit for controlling the display of the regular symbol display device, a drive circuit for controlling the display of various status display units 328 (regular symbol hold lamp, first special symbol hold lamp, second special symbol hold lamp, high probability lamp, etc.), and a drive circuit for controlling various solenoids 332 that drive various movable members (door members of the regular electric mechanism 230, door members of the variable prize opening 234, etc.).

[0170] Furthermore, the main control unit 300 is equipped with a voltage monitoring circuit that monitors the voltage value of the power supply supplied to the main control unit 300 from the power supply control unit 660. This voltage monitoring circuit outputs a low voltage signal to the basic circuit 302 indicating that the voltage has dropped when the voltage value of the power supply falls below a predetermined value (9V in this embodiment).

[0171] Furthermore, the main control unit 300 is equipped with an output interface for sending commands to the first sub-control unit 400 and an input / output interface for sending commands to the frame control unit 600. This configuration enables communication with the first sub-control unit 400 and the frame control unit 600.

[0172] Furthermore, information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub-control unit 400 is unidirectional. The main control unit 300 is configured to send signals such as commands to the first sub-control unit 400, but the first sub-control unit 400 is configured not to send signals such as commands to the main control unit 300. On the other hand, information communication between the main control unit 300 and the frame control unit 600 is bidirectional. The main control unit 300 and the frame control unit 600 are configured to send and receive signals such as commands to each other (details will be described later).

[0173] <First Sub-Control Unit> Next, the first sub-control unit 400 of the enclosed gaming machine 100 will be described. The first sub-control unit 400 is equipped with a basic circuit 402 that controls the entire first sub-control unit 400 mainly based on commands transmitted by the main control unit 300. This basic circuit 402 is equipped with a CPU 404, a ROM 406 that stores various performance data, and a RAM 408 for temporarily storing data.

[0174] Furthermore, the basic circuit 402 is equipped with a detection sensor to detect when the performance button 136 is pressed, a sound source IC for controlling the speaker 120 (and amplifier), a drive circuit for controlling the various lamps 418, and a drive circuit for controlling the performance device 246.

[0175] <Second Sub-Control Unit> Next, the second sub-control unit 500 of the enclosed gaming machine 100 will be described. The second sub-control unit 500 is equipped with a basic circuit 502 that controls the entire second sub-control unit 500 based on commands transmitted by the first sub-control unit 400. This basic circuit 502 is equipped with a CPU 504, a ROM 506 that stores data for image display, etc., and a VDP (video display processor) 434 that reads the data for image display etc. stored in the ROM 506 based on signals from the CPU 504, generates a display image using the work area of ​​the VRAM 436, and displays the image on the decorative pattern display device (liquid crystal display device) 157.

[0176] <Dispensing control unit, launching control unit, power supply control unit> Next, the frame control unit 600, launch control unit 630, and power supply control unit 660 of the enclosed gaming machine 100 will be described.

[0177] The frame control unit 600 is equipped with an input / output interface for sending commands to the main control unit 300 and an input / output interface for sending commands to the launch control unit 630, enabling communication with both the main control unit 300 and the launch control unit 630.

[0178] Information communication between the frame control unit 600 and the main control unit 300, and information communication between the frame control unit 600 and the launch control unit 630 are both bidirectional communications, and the main control unit 300 and the frame control unit 600, and the frame control unit 600 and the launch control unit 630 are configured to send and receive signals such as commands to and from each other.

[0179] The frame control unit 600 is equipped with a basic circuit 602 that controls the supply of game balls, etc., mainly based on signals such as commands transmitted by the main control unit 300. This basic circuit 602 is equipped with a CPU 604, a ROM 606 that stores various data, a RAM 608 for temporarily storing data, a sensor circuit that receives signals output by a foul ball detection sensor 616, a counting button 617, or a subtraction sensor 618, a drive circuit for controlling the display of the game ball count display device 619, and a drive circuit for controlling the drive of the ball lifting motor 601 of the lifting device 714 (see Figure 12).

[0180] Furthermore, the basic circuit 602 communicates with a dispensing device 614, which is provided separately from the enclosed gaming machine 100, via an interface unit. Information communication between the frame control unit 600 and the dispensing device 614 is bidirectional, and the frame control unit 600 and the dispensing device 614 are configured to send and receive signals such as commands to each other (details will be described later). The enclosed gaming machine 100 can also transmit information to a hall computer (so-called hall computer) installed in a gaming parlor or the like via the dispensing device 614.

[0181] The dispensing button 614a of the dispensing device 614 is an operating means for performing an operation to obtain the number of game balls by withdrawing the "money balance" stored on the card inserted into the dispensing device 614. By operating the dispensing button 614a at the start of the game or during the game, the number of game balls managed by the frame control unit 600 is increased according to the amount of money withdrawn.

[0182] The number of game balls and the number of prize balls are managed as numerical data by the frame control unit 600 and displayed using the game ball count display device 619. When the game ends, pressing the counting button 617 transfers the number of game balls managed by the frame control unit 600 to the dispensing device 614, where it can be stored on a card.

[0183] The launch control unit 630 controls the launch solenoid 632 that drives the launching rod 146 and the launching hammer 148 (see Figure 12), and the ball feeding solenoid 634 that supplies balls toward the ball launching handle 134, based on predetermined signals output by the frame control unit 600, such as control signals that instruct launching permission or stopping, and control signals output by a launching intensity output circuit located inside the ball launching handle 134 that instruct the launching intensity according to the amount the player operates the ball launching handle 134.

[0184] The power control unit 660 converts the AC power supplied externally to the enclosed gaming machine 100 into DC power, converts it to a predetermined voltage, and supplies it to the main control unit 300, the first sub-control unit 400, and other control units and various devices. The power control unit 660 is also equipped with a power storage circuit (e.g., a capacitor) to supply power to a predetermined component (e.g., the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300) for a predetermined period (e.g., 10 days) even after the external power supply is cut off.

[0185] <Types of patterns> Next, using Figures 14(a) to 14(c), we will explain the types of special and general symbols that the first special symbol display device, second special symbol display device, decorative symbol display device 208, and general symbol display device of the enclosed gaming machine 100 stop displaying.

[0186] <Types of patterns / Special patterns> Figure 14(a) shows an example of the stop symbol configuration in Special Figure 1, and Figure 14(b) shows an example of the stop symbol configuration in Special Figure 2.

[0187] Special Feature 1 variation game starts when the ball detection sensor detects that a ball has entered the first special feature start opening 231 of the upper non-electric feature 229a or the lower non-electric feature 229b, and special feature 2 variation game starts when the ball detection sensor detects that a ball has entered the second special feature start opening 232.

[0188] When the special feature 1 variation game starts, the first special feature display device performs a "special feature 1 variation display" by repeatedly lighting up all seven segments and then the central segment. Similarly, when the special feature 2 variation game starts, the second special feature display device performs a "special feature 2 variation display" by repeatedly lighting up all seven segments and then the central segment. These "special feature 1 variation display" and "special feature 2 variation display" correspond to examples of the symbol variation display (or special feature variation display) as referred to in the present invention.

[0189] Then, when the variation time determined before the start of variation in Figure 1 (corresponding to the variation time as defined in this invention) has elapsed, the first special figure display device displays the stopped pattern of Figure 1 as stopped, and when the variation time determined before the start of variation in Figure 2 (which also corresponds to the variation time as defined in this invention) has elapsed, the second special figure display device displays the stopped pattern of Figure 2 as stopped. These "stopped display of the stopped pattern of Figure 1" and "stopped display of the stopped pattern of Figure 2" correspond to examples of stopped display of patterns (or stopped display of special figures) as defined in this invention. Here, "stopped display of patterns (stopped display of special figures)" means maintaining the display of the pattern (special figure) in the stopped pattern pattern for a certain stopped display time (for example, 0.6 seconds), and in this specification, "stopped display" may be replaced with "confirmed display," "confirmed stop," "final stop display," etc.

[0190] Furthermore, the period from the start of the "display of the variation in Figure 1" until the stop pattern of Figure 1 is displayed is considered an example of a pattern variation stop display as defined in this invention. Hereinafter, this series of displays from the start of the "display of the variation in Figure 1 or 2" until the stop pattern of Figure 1 or 2 is displayed will be referred to as a pattern variation stop display. Pattern variation stop displays may occur multiple times in succession.

[0191] Figure 14(a) shows two types of special symbols, "Special Symbol A" to "Special Symbol B," as stop symbol configurations for Special Symbol 1, and Figure 14(b) shows four types of special symbols, "Special Symbol C" to "Special Symbol F," as stop symbol configurations for Special Symbol 2. In Figures 14(a) to (c), the white areas indicate the locations of segments that are turned off, and the black areas indicate the locations of segments that are lit.

[0192] As will be explained in more detail later, in the Special Feature 1 variable game, the determination of whether it is a big win, a small win, a time-saving symbol, or a loss is made by a random number lottery. "Special Feature A" and "Special Feature B" are 10-round (10R) big win symbols. Both are symbols that are selected when a small win symbol is won in the lottery during the Special Feature 1 variable game, and they may be referred to as "small win 1" and "small win 2," respectively.

[0193] As will be explained in more detail later, in the Special Symbol 2 variable game, the determination of whether it is a big win, a small win, a time-saving symbol, or a loss is made by a random number lottery. "Special Symbol C" is the 10R big win symbol, and "Special Symbol D" is the 2R big win symbol. Both are symbols selected when a small win symbol is won in the lottery during the Special Symbol 2 variable game, and they are sometimes referred to as "small win 3" and "small win 4," respectively. After the 10R big win game with Special Symbol C (small win 3) ends, the game transitions to a low-probability non-time-saving game state, and after the 2R big win game with Special Symbol D (small win 4) ends, the game transitions to a low-probability non-time-saving game state.

[0194] "Special Symbol E" to "Special Symbol F" are time-saving symbols, and all of them are symbols that are selected when a time-saving symbol is won in the lottery during the special symbol variation game in the time-saving game state a, which is set after the end of a big win game. They are sometimes referred to as "Time-Saving Symbol 1" and "Time-Saving Symbol 2," respectively. When a time-saving symbol is won in the lottery during the special symbol variation game in the time-saving game state a, the game state is set to the time-saving game state c.

[0195] <Type of design / General design> Figure 14(c) shows an example of the stop symbol configuration in the regular diagram.

[0196] The regular diagram variation game starts when the ball detection sensor detects that a ball has entered the regular diagram start opening 228. When the regular diagram variation game starts, the regular diagram display device performs a "regular diagram variation display" in which all seven segments are lit and the central segment is lit repeatedly.

[0197] Then, when the variation time determined before the start of the variation of the regular figure (corresponding to the variation time as referred to in this invention) has elapsed, the regular figure display device displays the stopped pattern of the regular figure as stopped. Furthermore, the period from the start of the "display of the regular figure" to the display of the stopped pattern of the regular figure corresponds to an example of the pattern variation stop display as referred to in this invention, and hereafter, this series of displays from the start of the "display of the regular figure" to the display of the stopped pattern of the regular figure will be referred to as the pattern variation stop display. The pattern variation stop display may be performed multiple times in succession.

[0198] Figure 14(c) shows three types of special symbols, from "Normal Symbol A" to "Normal Symbol C," as examples of normal symbols with stop patterns.

[0199] As will be explained in more detail later, the determination of whether you win or lose in the regular symbol variation game is made by a random number lottery. "Regular Symbol A" to "Regular Symbol B" are the winning symbols selected when you win in the lottery in the regular symbol variation game, and "Regular Symbol C" is the losing symbol selected when you lose in the lottery in the regular symbol variation game.

[0200] In a non-time-saving game state, if the player wins regular diagram A, the operation mode of the regular electric mechanism 230 is set so that the ball enters at the timing when the distribution unit 808,860 guides the player to the two non-electric open routes. In a non-time-saving game state, if the player wins regular diagram B, the operation mode of the regular electric mechanism 230 is set so that the ball enters at the timing when the distribution unit 808,860 guides the player to the one non-electric open route. On the other hand, in a game state other than a non-time-saving game state (in this example, a time-saving game state or c time-saving game state), if the player wins regular diagram A or regular diagram B, the operation mode of the regular electric mechanism 230 is set so that the ball enters at the timing when the distribution unit 808,860 guides the player to the non-electric unopened route.

[0201] In this example, by changing the operating mode of the regular electric mechanism 230 based on the success or failure of the regular figure variation game, the timing of ball entry into the regular electric mechanism 230 is controlled, and the route to which the balls are distributed by the distribution units 808 and 860 is determined by the success or failure of the regular figure variation game. Therefore, it becomes possible to determine the number of winning entries in special figure 1 based on the success or failure of the regular figure variation game, thereby improving the gameplay.

[0202] Figure 14(d) shows an example of a decorative pattern. This embodiment has 10 types of decorative patterns, from "Decoration 1" to "Decoration 10". When a ball enters the regular starting port 228, the first special starting port 231, or the second special starting port 232, the decorative pattern display device 208 performs a "variation display of decorative patterns" in which the display in the left pattern display area 208a, the middle pattern display area 208b, and the right pattern display area 208c of the decorative pattern display device 208 switches the display in the order of "Decoration 1" → "Decoration 2" → "Decoration 3" → ... "Decoration 9" → "Decoration 10" → "Decoration 1" → ...

[0203] Furthermore, when an "exact win" is announced in a regular variable-symbol game, or when a minor win in a special variable-symbol game is announced for "Special Symbol A" to "Special Symbol D", the symbol display areas 208a to 208c are stopped and displayed with a combination of three identical decorative symbols (in this example, "Decoration 1-Decoration 1-Decoration 1" or "Decoration 7-Decoration 7-Decoration 7") corresponding to the win or minor win.

[0204] Furthermore, in this specification, states in which the displayed decorative pattern may change may be referred to as "temporary stop (or temporary stop display)," "temporarily stopped (or temporary stop display)," "fluctuation (or fluctuation display)," "stop display," etc. Note that even in such states, the displayed decorative pattern may not change. Also, even if some of the multiple decorative patterns are in a stopped state, some of the other decorative patterns may be in the same state.

[0205] Furthermore, in this specification, the state in which the variation of decorative symbols resumes from a state of "temporary stop (or temporary stop display)", "temporary stop (or temporary stop display)", "shaking variation (or shaking variation display)", or "stop display" may be referred to as "restart", "re-variation", "re-draw", "pseudo-variation", or "pseudo-consecutive". In particular, actions performed after decorative symbols that can recognize a jackpot have been displayed may be referred to as "re-draw", "re-variation", or "restart", and in the case of a performance that shows the variation of decorative symbols multiple times during the execution of a single special symbol variation game (so-called "pseudo-consecutive" or "pseudo-variation"), when the variation of the decorative symbols resumes, it may be referred to as "pseudo-variation", "pseudo-consecutive", "re-variation", or "restart".

[0206] Furthermore, in the case of "pseudo-variation" and "pseudo-consecutive variations," there are instances where the decorative symbols do not stop temporarily (e.g., a temporary stop). For example, variations that visually change the speed of the decorative symbols' variation (e.g., repeating high-speed variation → low-speed variation → high-speed variation) may also be referred to as "pseudo-consecutive variations" or "pseudo-variation." Additionally, there are instances where only some decorative symbols stop temporarily before resuming variation, or where symbols are displayed as temporarily stopped only during variations that perform pseudo-consecutive variations, variations that appear to perform pseudo-consecutive variations, or when they function as a pre-announcement. These are sometimes referred to as "special symbols" or "pseudo-consecutive symbols."

[0207] Furthermore, in the display of changing decorative patterns, the decorative patterns may stop and be displayed in a predetermined order (for example, the left decorative pattern, the right decorative pattern, and the middle decorative pattern), and in this specification, these may be referred to as "left stop (or left stop display)", "right stop (or right stop display)", "middle stop (or middle stop display)", or "first stop (or first stop display)", "second stop (or second stop display)", and "third stop (or third stop display)".

[0208] In addition, when displaying decorative or special patterns, the stop indicators may be described in chronological order as "first stop indicator," "second stop indicator," etc. Furthermore, while stop indicators may be used in all scenes, they may be replaceable with other terms when referring to the diagrams.

[0209] <Main processing of the main control unit> Next, the main processing performed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be explained using Figure 15. Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the flow of the main processing of the main control unit.

[0210] The main control unit 300 is equipped with a startup signal output circuit (reset signal output circuit) that outputs a startup signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302, upon receiving this startup signal, resets via a reset interrupt and executes the main control unit processing shown in Figure 15 according to the control program pre-stored in the ROM 306.

[0211] Step SA01 performs Initialization 1. This Initialization 1 involves setting the initial stack value (temporary setting) for the stack pointer (SP) of the CPU 304, setting the interrupt mask, initializing the I / O 310, initializing various variables to be stored in RAM 308, enabling operation and setting an initial value for the WDT, etc. In this embodiment, the WDT is set to a value equivalent to 32.8ms as its initial value.

[0212] In step SA03, the WDT counter value is cleared and the WDT time measurement is restarted.

[0213] In step SA05, the system monitors whether the low voltage signal is on, that is, whether the voltage monitoring circuit outputs a low voltage signal indicating a voltage drop when the voltage value of the power supply supplied from the power control unit 660 to the main control unit 300 falls below a predetermined value (9V in this embodiment). If the low voltage signal is on (CPU 304 has detected a power outage), the system returns to step SA03; if the low voltage signal is off (CPU 304 has not detected a power outage), the system proceeds to step SA07. In addition, if the voltage has not yet reached the predetermined value (9V) immediately after power is turned on, the system returns to step SA03, and step SA05 is repeatedly executed until the supply voltage is equal to or greater than that predetermined value.

[0214] Step SA07 performs Initial Setup 2. This Initial Setup 2 involves setting a value in the counter timer that determines the period for executing the main control timer interrupt processing described later, outputting a clear signal from a designated I / O port (for example, the test output port, the output port to the first sub-control unit 400), and setting permissions to allow writing to RAM 308.

[0215] In step SA09, it is determined whether or not to return to the state before the power was cut off (before the power was cut off). If it does not return to the state before the power was cut off (the basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300 is returned to its initial state), the process proceeds to initialization (step SA13).

[0216] Specifically, first, it is determined whether the RAM clear signal transmitted when an employee of a gaming establishment operates the RWM clear switch (not shown) on the power supply board is ON (indicating that an operation has occurred), that is, whether a RAM clear is necessary. If the RAM clear signal is ON (indicating that a RAM clear is necessary), the process proceeds to step SA13 to return the basic circuit 302 to its initial state.

[0217] On the other hand, if the RAM clear signal is off (i.e., RAM clearing is not required), the power status information stored in the power status memory area of ​​RAM 308 is read, and it is determined whether or not this power status information indicates suspend. If the power status information does not indicate suspend, the process proceeds to step SA13 to reset the basic circuit 302 to its initial state. If the power status information does indicate suspend, a checksum is calculated by adding all the 1-byte data stored in a predetermined area of ​​RAM 308 (e.g., all areas) to a 1-byte register with an initial value of 0, and it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum result is a specific value (e.g., 0) (i.e., whether or not the checksum result is normal).

[0218] Then, if the checksum result is a specific value (for example, 0) (indicating a normal checksum result), the system proceeds to step SA11 to return to the state before the power outage. If the checksum result is anything other than a specific value (for example, 0) (indicating an abnormal checksum result), the system proceeds to step SA13 to return the sealed gaming machine 100 to its initial state. Similarly, if the power status information indicates anything other than "suspend", the system also proceeds to step SA13.

[0219] Step SA11 performs power restoration processing. In this power restoration processing, the value of the stack pointer stored in the stack pointer save area provided in RAM308 when the power was lost is read and the stack pointer is reset (main setting). In addition, the values ​​of each register stored in the register save area provided in RAM308 when the power was lost are read and reset to each register, and then the interrupt enable setting is performed.

[0220] Subsequently, the CPU 304 executes the control program based on the reset stack pointer and registers, resulting in the enclosed gaming machine 100 returning to the state it was in when the power was cut off. That is, processing resumes from the instruction following the instruction (a predetermined instruction in step SA15) that was given immediately before branching to the timer interrupt processing (described later) just before the power cut off. In addition, the RAM 308 mounted on the basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300 shown in Figure 13 is provided with a transmission information storage area. In step SA11, a power restoration command is set in this transmission information storage area. This power restoration command indicates that the machine has returned to the state it was in when the power was cut off, and is sent to the first sub-control unit 400 in step SB33 of the timer interrupt processing of the main control unit 300, which will be described later.

[0221] Step SA13 performs initialization processing. This initialization process includes setting interrupt disable, setting the stack pointer to its initial value (this setting), and initializing all memory areas of RAM 308. Furthermore, a normal recovery command is set in the transmission information storage area provided in RAM 308 of the main control unit 300. This normal recovery command indicates that the initialization processing (step SA13) of the main control unit 300 has been completed, and like the power restoration command, it is sent to the first sub-control unit 400 in step SB33 of the timer interrupt processing of the main control unit 300.

[0222] In step SA15, after setting the interrupt disable, the basic random number initial value update process is performed. In this basic random number initial value update process, two random number counters for generating initial values ​​for the general drawing winning random number counter and the special drawing random number counter are updated, as well as two random number counters for generating the general drawing timer random number and the special drawing timer random number. For example, if the range of possible values ​​for the general drawing timer random number is 0 to 100, a value is obtained from the random number counter storage area for generating the general drawing timer random number in RAM308, 1 is added to the obtained value, and then it is stored in the original random number counter storage area. At this time, if the result of adding 1 to the obtained value is 101, 0 is stored in the original random number counter storage area. The other random number counters for generating initial values ​​and the random number counters are updated in the same way. The random number counters for generating initial values ​​are also updated in step SB07, which will be described later.

[0223] The main control unit 300 repeatedly executes the process of step SA15, except when it is performing timer interrupt processing which is started at predetermined intervals.

[0224] <Main control timer interrupt processing> Next, the main control unit timer interrupt processing executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be explained using Figure 16. Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the flow of the main control unit timer interrupt processing.

[0225] The main control unit 300 is equipped with a counter timer that generates a timer interrupt signal at a predetermined interval (approximately once every 2ms in this embodiment), and the main control unit timer interrupt processing is started at a predetermined interval triggered by this timer interrupt signal.

[0226] Step SB01 performs the timer interrupt start process. This timer interrupt start process includes temporarily saving the values ​​of each register of the CPU304 to the stack area.

[0227] In step SB03, the WDT is periodically restarted (in this embodiment, approximately once every 2ms, which is the period of the main control unit timer interrupt) to prevent a WDT interrupt from occurring (to prevent detection of a processing abnormality) if the WDT count value exceeds the initial setting value (32.8ms in this embodiment).

[0228] Step SB05 performs an input port state update process. In this input port state update process, detection signals from various sensors 320, including the front frame door open sensor, inner frame open sensor, and various ball detection sensors, are input via the I / O input ports, and the presence or absence of detection signals is monitored. This information is then stored in a signal state storage area in RAM 308, partitioned for each of the various sensors 320. To explain using the detection signals of the ball detection sensors as an example, the information on the presence or absence of detection signals from each ball detection sensor detected in the timer interrupt process two steps prior (approximately 4ms ago) is read from the previous detection signal storage area in RAM 308, partitioned for each ball detection sensor. This information is then stored in the previous detection signal storage area in RAM 308, partitioned for each ball detection sensor. The information on the presence or absence of detection signals from each ball detection sensor detected in the previous timer interrupt process (approximately 2ms ago) is read from the current detection signal storage area in RAM 308, partitioned for each ball detection sensor. This information is then stored in the previous detection signal storage area. Furthermore, the detection signals from each of the ball detection sensors detected in this instance are stored in the aforementioned detection signal storage area.

[0229] Furthermore, in step SB05, the system compares the information regarding the presence or absence of detection signals from each ball detection sensor stored in the aforementioned storage areas for the detection signal two steps prior, the detection signal storage area last time, and the detection signal storage area for the current time. It then determines whether the information regarding the presence or absence of detection signals for the past three times at each ball detection sensor matches the winning judgment pattern information. This main control unit timer interrupt process, which is activated repeatedly at very short intervals of approximately 2ms, is activated several times while one game ball passes through one ball detection sensor. Therefore, each time the main control unit timer interrupt process is activated, step SB05 checks for a detection signal indicating that the same game ball has passed through the same ball detection sensor.

[0230] As a result, the detection signals indicating that the same game ball passed the same ball detection sensor are stored in the aforementioned previous-previous detection signal storage area, the previous detection signal storage area, and the current detection signal storage area, respectively. That is, when a game ball begins to pass the ball detection sensor, the previous-previous detection signal is absent, the previous detection signal is present, and the current detection signal is present. In this embodiment, taking into account false detections and noise from the ball detection sensor, if two consecutive detection signals are stored after an absence of a detection signal, it is determined that a prize has been won.

[0231] The ROM 306 of the main control unit 300 shown in Figure 13 stores prize-winning determination pattern information (in this embodiment, information indicating that there was no detection signal two attempts ago, a detection signal was present last time, and a detection signal was present this time). In step SB05, if the information on the presence or absence of detection signals for the past three attempts at each ball detection sensor matches the predetermined prize-winning determination pattern information (in this embodiment, information indicating that there was no detection signal two attempts ago, a detection signal was present last time, and a detection signal was present this time), it is determined that a ball has entered the general prize-winning openings 226a to 226c, the variable prize-winning opening 234, the upper non-electric mechanism 229a, the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, the normal electric mechanism 230, and the second special feature start opening 232, or that a ball has passed through the normal feature start opening 228 or the normal electric operation gate 235. For example, in a general prize slot sensor that detects balls entering the general prize slot 226a, if the information regarding the presence or absence of detection signals for the past three times matches the prize determination pattern information described above, it is determined that a prize has been awarded to the general prize slot 226a, and subsequent processing related to a prize being awarded to the general prize slot 226a is performed. However, if the information regarding the presence or absence of detection signals for the past three times does not match the prize determination pattern information described above, the subsequent processing related to a prize being awarded to the general prize slot 226a is not performed, and the system branches to the next process.

[0232] Furthermore, the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300 stores prize-winning judgment clear pattern information (in this embodiment, information indicating that there was a detection signal two attempts ago, no detection signal last time, and no detection signal this time). After it is determined that a prize has been won once, each ball detection sensor will not determine that a prize has been won until the information on the presence or absence of detection signals for the past three attempts matches the prize-winning judgment clear pattern information. Once it matches the prize-winning judgment clear pattern information, the next time it will determine whether or not it matches the prize-winning judgment pattern information.

[0233] Steps SB07 and SB09 perform a basic random number initial value update process and a basic random number update process. These processes update the value of the random number counter used for initial value generation, which was performed in step SA15, and then update two random number counters used by the main control unit 300 to generate the random values ​​for the general drawing, the special drawing 1, and the special drawing 2, respectively.

[0234] For example, if the range of possible values ​​for the random number winning value is 0 to 100, the value is retrieved from the random number counter memory area in RAM308 used to generate the random number winning value, 1 is added to the retrieved value, and then it is stored in the original random number counter memory area. If the result of adding 1 to the retrieved value is 101, then 0 is stored in the original random number counter memory area. Also, if it is determined that the random number counter has completed one cycle after adding 1 to the retrieved value, the value of the initial value generation random number counter corresponding to each random number counter is retrieved and set in the random number counter memory area.

[0235] For example, if a value is obtained from a random number counter for generating random numbers for winning the lottery, which fluctuates within a numerical range of 0 to 100, and the result of adding 1 to the obtained value is equal to the previously set initial value stored in a predetermined initial value storage area in RAM 308 (for example, 7), then the value is obtained as the initial value from the random number counter for generating initial values ​​corresponding to the random number counter for generating random numbers for winning the lottery, and set in the random number counter for generating random numbers for winning the lottery. At the same time, the initial value set this time is stored in the aforementioned initial value storage area in order to determine that the random number counter for generating random numbers for winning the lottery has completed one cycle.

[0236] Furthermore, separate from the initial value storage area mentioned above for determining when the random number counter for generating random numbers for the regular feature has completed one cycle, an initial value storage area for determining when the random number counter for generating random numbers for the special feature has completed one cycle is provided in RAM 308. In this embodiment, separate counters are provided for obtaining the random number value for special feature 1 and for obtaining the random number value for special feature 2, but the same counter may be used.

[0237] Step SB11 performs a random number update process for the performance. In this random number update process, the random number counter used to generate random numbers for the performance in the main control unit 300 is updated.

[0238] Step SB13 performs a timer update process. This timer update process updates various timers, including a general display symbol update timer for timing the time it takes to change and stop displaying symbols on the general display device, a special symbol 1 display symbol update timer for timing the time it takes to change and stop displaying symbols on the first special symbol display device, a special symbol 2 display symbol update timer for timing the time it takes to change and stop displaying symbols on the second special symbol display device, and timers for timing predetermined winning animation times, predetermined opening times, predetermined closing times, predetermined ending animation periods, etc.

[0239] In step SB15, a winning port counter update process is performed. In this winning port counter update process, when there is a win at a winning port or a start port, the value in the winning ball number storage area provided for each winning port or each start port in the RAM 308 is read out, incremented by 1, and set in the original winning ball number storage area.

[0240] Also, in step SB17, a winning reception process is performed. In this winning reception process, it is determined whether there is a ball entry into the variable winning port 234, the upper non-electric accessory 229a, the lower non-electric accessory 229b, the normal electric accessory 230, and the second special figure start port 232, or whether there is a win at the general figure start port 228 or the general electric operation gate 235. Here, the determination is made using the determination result of whether it matches the winning determination pattern information in step SB03.

[0241] In step SB19, a payout request number transmission process is performed. The output schedule information and payout request information output to the frame control unit 600 are, for example, configured with 1 byte. Bit 7 is the strobe information (when on, indicating that data is being set), bit 6 is the power-on information (when on, indicating that it is the first command transmission after power-on), bits 4 - 5 are the current processing type for encryption (0 - 3), and bits from 0 to 3 indicate the encrypted payout request number.

[0242] In step SB21, a special symbol and special electric accessory control process for each of the special figure 1 and special figure 2 is performed. Details will be described using FIG. 17. In this special symbol and special electric accessory control process, processes related to the special figure variable game and processes related to the variable winning port 234 are performed.

[0243] Step SB23 performs control processing for the regular symbols and regular electric gimmicks. This control processing unit performs one of several processes corresponding to the state of the regular symbols. For example, in the regular symbol state update process during the regular symbol variation display (when the value of the regular symbol display symbol update timer described above is 1 or more), the unit performs on / off drive control, which repeatedly turns the 7-segment LEDs that make up the regular symbol display device 210 on and off. By performing this control, the regular symbol display device 210 performs variation display of the regular symbols (regular symbol variation game).

[0244] Furthermore, in the normal symbol state update process at the timing when the normal symbol variation display time has elapsed (the timing when the value of the normal symbol display pattern update timer changes from 1 to 0), if the winning flag is on, the 7-segment LEDs constituting the normal symbol display device 210 are controlled to light up and turn off so that the display becomes a winning symbol. If the winning flag is off, the 7-segment LEDs constituting the normal symbol display device 210 are controlled to light up and turn off so that the display becomes a losing symbol.

[0245] Furthermore, the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300 is equipped with a setting area for various settings in various processes, not just the normal symbol state update process. Here, the above-mentioned on / off drive control is performed, and a setting indicating that the normal symbol is stopped is made in the setting area. By performing this control, the normal symbol display device 210 displays either a winning symbol (normal symbol A or normal symbol B shown in Figure 14(c)) or a losing symbol (normal symbol C shown in Figure 14(c)). Subsequently, to maintain the display for a predetermined stop display period (for example, 500 milliseconds), information indicating the stop period is set in the memory area of ​​the normal symbol stop time management timer provided in RAM 308. With this setting, the confirmed symbol is displayed for a predetermined period, and the result of the normal symbol variation game is notified to the player.

[0246] Furthermore, if the result of the regular symbol variation game is a win, the regular symbol win flag is turned on, as will be described later. When this regular symbol win flag is on, in the regular symbol state update process at the timing when the predetermined stop display period ends (the timing when the value of the regular symbol stop time management timer changes from 1 to 0), the setting area of ​​RAM 308 is set to "regular symbol in operation," and a signal is output to the door drive unit 820 to keep the door members of the regular electric mechanism 230 (in this example, the electric tuner door 822 and the electric tuner sensor front door 824) in an open state for a predetermined open period, and information indicating the open period is set in the memory area of ​​the feather open time management timer provided in RAM 308.

[0247] Furthermore, in the normal state update process, which starts when the predetermined opening period ends (when the value of the blade opening time management timer changes from 1 to 0), a signal is output to the door drive unit 820 to keep the door members of the normal electric mechanism 230 (in this example, the electric tuner door 822 and the electric tuner sensor front door 824) in a closed state for a predetermined closing period, and information indicating the closing period is set in the memory area of ​​the blade closing time management timer provided in the RAM 308.

[0248] Furthermore, in the normal display state update process that starts when the predetermined closing period ends (when the value of the timer for managing the feather closing time changes from 1 to 0), the setting area of ​​RAM308 is set to "normal display not in operation". In addition, if the result of the normal display variation game is a loss, the normal display loss flag is turned on, as will be described later. When this normal display loss flag is on, the normal display state update process at the time the predetermined stop display period mentioned above ends (when the value of the timer for managing the normal display stop time changes from 1 to 0) also sets the normal display not in operation in the setting area of ​​RAM308. In the normal display state update process when the normal display is not in operation, nothing is done and the process proceeds to the next step SB23.

[0249] Furthermore, when a ball enters the standard electric operation gate 235, it is determined whether the timing of the ball's entry is such that the standard electric mechanism 230 can be operated. If the determination result is that it is such a timing, the standard electric mechanism 230 is activated.

[0250] Furthermore, in the normal pattern / normal electric mechanism control processing, a normal pattern-related lottery processing is performed. In this normal pattern-related lottery processing, if the normal pattern variation game and the opening / closing control of the normal electric mechanism 230 are not performed (normal pattern state is inactive), and the number of normal pattern variation games being held is 1 or more, a win determination is made by random number drawing based on the normal pattern winning random number stored in the random number storage area mentioned above, determining whether the result of the normal pattern variation game is a win or a loss. If it is a win, the win flag in RAM 308 is set to ON. If it is a loss, the win flag is set to OFF. In addition, regardless of the result of the win determination, the value of the random number counter for generating the normal pattern timer random number mentioned above is then obtained as the normal pattern timer random number, and based on the obtained normal pattern timer random number, one time for displaying the normal pattern on the normal pattern display device is selected from among multiple variation times, and this variation display time is stored as the normal pattern variation display time in the normal pattern variation time storage area in RAM 308. The number of pending regular symbol variation games is stored in a regular symbol reservation memory area in RAM308. Each time a win is determined, the number of pending regular symbol variation games is reduced by 1 and stored again in this regular symbol reservation memory area. The random number used for the win determination is also erased.

[0251] Step SB25 performs the state transition process after a big win. As will be explained in detail later using Figure 18, this post-big win state transition process includes setting up a time-saving game when the big win game ends.

[0252] In step SB33, the command setting transmission process is performed, and various commands are sent to the first sub-control unit 400. The output information to be sent to the first sub-control unit 400 consists of, for example, 16 bits, with bit 15 being strobe information (if on, it indicates that data is being set), bits 11 to 14 being command type (in this embodiment, information that can identify the type of command, such as basic command, symbol variation start command, symbol variation stop command, prize winning animation start command, ending animation start command, jackpot round number specification command, power restoration command, RAM clear command, etc.), and bits 0 to 10 being command data (predetermined information corresponding to the command type).

[0253] Specifically, the strobe information is turned on and off in the command transmission process described above. Furthermore, if the command type is a symbol variation start command, the command data includes information such as the values ​​of the 10R jackpot flag and 2R jackpot flag, the value of the special symbol probability variation flag, and the timer number selected in the special symbol related lottery process. If it is a symbol variation stop command, it includes the values ​​of the 10R jackpot flag and 2R jackpot flag, and the value of the special symbol probability variation flag. If it is a prize entry performance command or a termination performance start command, it includes the value of the special symbol probability variation flag. If it is a jackpot round number specification command, it includes the value of the special symbol probability variation flag and the number of jackpot rounds. If the command type indicates a basic command, the command data includes device information, whether or not a prize has been entered into the normal electric mechanism 230, whether or not a prize has been entered into the second special symbol start opening 232, and whether or not a prize has been entered into the variable prize opening 234.

[0254] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned rotation start setting transmission process, the command data is set to information stored in RAM308, such as the values ​​of the 10R jackpot flag and the 2R jackpot flag, the value of the special symbol probability variation flag, the timer number selected in the special symbol 1 related lottery process and the special symbol 2 related lottery process, and the number of the first special symbol variation game or the second special symbol variation game being held. In the above-mentioned rotation stop setting transmission process, the command data is set to information stored in RAM308, such as the values ​​of the 10R jackpot flag and the 2R jackpot flag, and the value of the special symbol probability variation flag. In the above-mentioned prize winning performance setting transmission process, the command data is set to information stored in RAM308, such as performance control information to be output to the decorative symbol display device 208, various lamps 418, and speaker 120 during the prize winning performance period, the value of the special symbol probability variation flag, and the number of the first special symbol variation game or the second special symbol variation game being held.

[0255] Furthermore, in the aforementioned termination animation setting transmission process, the command data is set to include information stored in RAM308, such as animation control information to be output to the decorative symbol display device 208, various lamps 418, and speaker 120 during the animation standby period, the value of the special symbol probability variation flag, and the number of reserved first or second special symbol variation games. In the aforementioned big prize opening setting transmission process, the command data is set to include information stored in RAM308, such as the number of big win rounds, the value of the special symbol probability variation flag, and the number of reserved first or second special symbol variation games. In the aforementioned big prize closing setting transmission process, the command data is set to include information stored in RAM308, such as the number of big win rounds, the value of the special symbol probability variation flag, and the number of reserved first or second special symbol variation games. In addition, in this step SB33, a general command special symbol reserve increase process is also performed. In this general command special feature hold increase process, the command data is set to special feature identification information (information indicating special feature 1 or special feature 2) and notification information (either prior notification information, false prior notification information, or no prior notification information) stored in the transmission information storage area of ​​RAM308.

[0256] The first sub-control unit 400 can determine the performance control in response to changes in game control in the main control unit 300 based on the command type included in the received output schedule information, and can also determine the content of the performance control based on the command data information included in the output schedule information.

[0257] Step SB35 performs external output signal setting processing. In this external output signal setting processing, the game information stored in RAM308 is output via the information output circuit to an information input circuit separate from the enclosed gaming machine 100.

[0258] Step SB37 performs device monitoring. In this device monitoring process, the signal states of various sensors stored in the signal state memory area in step SB05 are read out to monitor for the presence or absence of predetermined errors, such as the presence or absence of a front frame door opening error. If a front frame door opening error is detected, device information indicating the presence or absence of a front frame door opening error is set in the transmission information to be sent to the first sub-control unit 400. In addition, display data to be driven by various solenoids 332 to control the opening and closing of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 and the variable prize entry opening 234, and to be output to the ordinary symbol display device 210, the first special symbol display device, the second special symbol display device, and various status display units 328 via the display circuit is set in the I / O output ports. Furthermore, the output schedule information set in the payout request transmission process (step SB19) is output to the first sub-control unit 400 via the output ports (I / O).

[0259] Step SB39 monitors whether the low voltage signal is on or off. If the low voltage signal is on (power outage detected), proceed to step SB43; otherwise, proceed to step SB41.

[0260] Step SB41 performs timer interrupt termination processing. In this timer interrupt termination processing, the values ​​of each register that were temporarily saved in step SB01 are set back to their original values, interrupt enable settings are made, and then the process returns to the main control unit main processing shown in Figure 15.

[0261] On the other hand, in step SB43, specific variables and stack pointers for returning to the state at the time of power failure during power restoration are saved as restoration data in a predetermined area of the RAM 308, power-off processing such as initialization of input / output ports is performed, and then the process returns to the above-described main control unit main process.

[0262] <Special Symbol·Special Electric Device Control Process> Next, using FIG. 17, the special symbol·special electric device control process (step SB21) in the main control unit timer interrupt process will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the flow of the special symbol·special electric device control process.

[0263] In step SC01, it is determined whether it is during a small win game or a big win game. If it is applicable, the process proceeds to step SC03; if not, the process proceeds to step SC05. In step SC03, after performing the small win·big win game process, the special symbol·special electric device control process ends.

[0264] In the small win·big win game process in step SC03, processes for advancing the small win game or the big win game are performed, for example, processes for updating the number of rounds of the small win game or the big win game are performed.

[0265] In step SC05, it is determined whether the big win game has ended. If it is applicable, the process proceeds to step SC07; if not, the process proceeds to step SC09. In the big win game end process in step SC07, after performing the big win game end process, the special symbol·special electric device control process ends.

[0266] In the big win end process in step SC07, processes for ending the big win are performed. In this big win game end process, processes for updating the game state after the big win are not performed, and this process is performed in the state transition process after the big win described using FIG. 18.

[0267] In step SC09, it is determined whether or not a special symbol variation is in progress. If so, the process proceeds to step SC11; otherwise, it proceeds to step SC13. In step SC11, the special symbol variation process is performed.

[0268] In this special symbol variation processing, first, special symbol variation processing for special symbol 1 (special symbol 1 variation processing) is performed. In special symbol 1 variation processing, predetermined processing is performed according to the state of special symbol 1. For example, in special symbol 1 variation processing during the variation display of special symbol 1 (when the value of the special symbol 1 display symbol update timer mentioned above is 1 or more), on / off drive control is performed, which repeatedly turns the 7-segment LEDs constituting the first special symbol display device on and off. By performing this control, the first special symbol display device performs variation display of special symbol 1 (special symbol 1 variation game).

[0269] Furthermore, in the command setting transmission process (step SB33), predetermined transmission information indicating that the rotation stop setting transmission process should be executed is added to the above-mentioned transmission information storage area, and special figure 1 identification information indicating that the symbol whose variation display will be stopped is special figure 1 is added to the RAM 308 as information to be included in the command data described later, before the process ends. Also, when the variation time determined before the start of variation of special figure 1 has elapsed, the first special figure display device displays the stopped symbol pattern of special figure 1 as stopped.

[0270] Once the processing for the variation of Special Symbol 1 is complete, the processing for the variation of Special Symbol 2 (Special Symbol 2 variation processing) is performed. In the Special Symbol 2 variation processing, the processes described in the Special Symbol 1 variation processing above are performed according to the state of Special Symbol 2. The processes performed in the Special Symbol 2 variation processing are the same as those described in the Special Symbol 1 variation processing above, but with "Special Symbol 1" replaced by "Special Symbol 2," so their explanation is omitted. Note that the order of the Special Symbol 1 variation processing and the Special Symbol 2 variation processing may be reversed.

[0271] In step SC13, it is determined whether or not the special symbol has stopped. If so, the process proceeds to step SC15; otherwise, it proceeds to step SC17. In step SC15, the special symbol stopping process is performed.

[0272] In this special symbol stop process, the first step is to perform the special symbol stop process for Special Symbol 1 (Special Symbol 1 stop process). In the Special Symbol 1 stop process, if the result of the Special Symbol 1 variation game is a win, the win flag is turned on. When this win flag is on, in the Special Symbol 1 stop process at the timing when the predetermined stop display period has ended (when the value of the Special Symbol 1 stop time management timer changes from 1 to 0), the setting area of ​​RAM 308 is set to "Special Symbol 1 in operation," and information indicating the prize-winning performance period is set in the memory area of ​​the Special Symbol 2 standby time management timer provided in RAM 308 in order to wait for a predetermined prize-winning performance period (for example, 3 seconds), that is, the period during which an image informing the player that a jackpot has started on the decorative symbol display device 208 is displayed. In addition, predetermined transmission information (minor win start command) indicating that the prize-winning performance setting transmission process should be executed is added to the above-mentioned transmission information storage area in the command setting transmission process (step SB33).

[0273] Furthermore, in the special feature 1 stop process, which starts when the predetermined prize winning animation period ends (when the value of the special feature 1 standby time management timer changes from 1 to 0), a signal is output to the solenoid for driving the opening and closing of the door member of the variable prize winning opening 234 to keep the door member in the open state for a predetermined opening period (for example, 29 seconds, or until a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10 balls) are detected to have entered the variable prize winning opening 234), and information indicating the opening period is set in the storage area of ​​the door opening time management timer provided in RAM 308. In addition, predetermined transmission information indicating that the large prize winning opening setting transmission process should be executed is added to the above-mentioned transmission information storage area in the command setting transmission process (step SB33).

[0274] Furthermore, in the state update process shown in Figure 1, which starts when the predetermined open period ends (when the value of the door open time management timer changes from 1 to 0), a signal is output to the solenoid for driving the opening and closing of the door member of the variable prize slot 234 to keep the door member in the closed state for a predetermined closing period (for example, 1.5 seconds), and information indicating the closing period is set in the storage area of ​​the door closing time management timer provided in RAM 308. In addition, predetermined transmission information indicating that the large prize slot closing setting transmission process should be executed is added to the above-mentioned transmission information storage area in the command setting transmission process (step SB33).

[0275] Furthermore, during the Special Feature 1 stop process, if the result of the Special Feature 1 variation game is a loss, the loss flag is turned on. When this loss flag is on, at the timing when the predetermined stop display period described above has ended (when the value of the Special Feature 1 stop time management timer changes from 1 to 0), the setting area of ​​RAM 308 is set to Special Feature 1 not in operation, and processing is performed to set the waiting time until the next Special Feature 1 variation display.

[0276] Once the Special Symbol 1 stop process is complete, the Special Symbol stop process for Special Symbol 2 (Special Symbol 2 variation stop process) is performed. In the Special Symbol 2 stop process, each process described in the Special Symbol 1 stop process above is performed according to the state of Special Symbol 2. Note that the order of the Special Symbol 1 stop process and the Special Symbol 2 stop process may be reversed. Each process performed in the Special Symbol 2 stop process is almost identical to the process described in the Special Symbol 1 stop process above, with "Special Symbol 1" replaced by "Special Symbol 2," so a detailed explanation is omitted, but the difference is that there is a time-saving game.

[0277] Specifically, in the Special Feature 2 stop process, if the result of the Special Feature 2 variable game is a time-saving symbol, the time-saving flag is turned on. When this time-saving flag is on, the command setting transmission process (step SB33) adds predetermined transmission information (game state specification command) indicating that the game state should be changed to the time-saving game state to the aforementioned transmission information storage area. In other words, if a time-saving symbol (in this example, Special Feature E or Special Feature F) is won in the Special Feature 2 variable game, the game state is set to the time-saving game state when the Special Feature 2 stop display starts (for example, at the timing indicated by code T1b in Figure 25(b)).

[0278] Furthermore, in the special feature 2 time-saving state setting, which involves repeatedly controlling the opening and closing of the door member of the variable prize entry opening 234 for a predetermined number of times (10 rounds or 2 rounds in this example) and starting when the control is completed, information indicating the performance waiting period is set in the memory area of ​​the performance waiting time management timer provided in RAM 308 in order to set the machine to wait for a predetermined termination performance period (for example, 3 seconds), that is, for the period during which the decorative symbol display device 208 displays an image informing the player that the jackpot has ended.

[0279] Once the stopping processes for Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 in step SC15 are complete, the special figure-related lottery processes for Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 are then performed. Here again, the special figure-related lottery process for Special Figure 1 (Special Figure 1 related lottery process) is performed first, followed by the special figure-related lottery process for Special Figure 2 (Special Figure 2 related lottery process).

[0280] In step SC17, after the special symbol variation start process is performed, the special symbol / special electric mechanism control process is terminated. In the special symbol variation start process of step SC17, it is determined whether or not there are any reserved special symbols 1 or 2. If there are no reserved symbols, the machine enters a waiting state. On the other hand, if there are reserved special symbols 1 or 2, a jackpot determination and variation pattern determination are performed, and the command setting transmission process (step SB33) sets each command and the variation time, and the variation display starts.

[0281] Furthermore, if the game state is a time-saving game state and the time-saving termination conditions are met, the command setting transmission process (step SB33) adds predetermined transmission information (game state specification command) indicating a transition to the normal game state to the aforementioned transmission information storage area. In other words, at the start of the special symbol variation (for example, at the timing indicated by the symbol T2b in Figure 25(c)), the game state is set to the normal game state.

[0282] <State transition process after a big win> Next, using Figure 18, we will explain the state transition process after a jackpot in the main control unit timer interrupt processing described using Figure 16 (step SB25). Figure 18 is a flowchart showing the flow of the state transition process after a jackpot.

[0283] Step SD01 determines whether the jackpot game has ended or not. If it has ended, the process proceeds to Step SD03. If it has not ended, the post-jackpot state transition process is terminated. In Step SD03, the time-saving state setting process is executed, and then the post-jackpot state transition process is terminated.

[0284] In the time-saving state setting process of step SD03, if the time-saving start conditions are met, the number of time-saving counts is set in the time-saving count storage unit in RAM308, and the time-saving flag in RAM308 is turned on. When this time-saving flag is on, predetermined transmission information (game state specification command) indicating that the game state should be transitioned to the time-saving game state is added to the above-mentioned transmission information storage area in the command setting transmission process (step SB33).

[0285] In conventional gaming machines, when transitioning to a time-saving game state after a big win, the time-saving state setting process in step SD03 is executed in the special symbol / special electric mechanism control process explained using Figure 17. Therefore, depending on the timing, the regular electric mechanism 230 may open for an unintended long time.

[0286] As will be explained in more detail later using Figure 25(c), for example, in a timer interrupt process that sets the game state to time-saving game state 1 (1 time), the normal electric mechanism 230 is opened when a ball passes through the normal electric operation gate 235, and the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed). At the timing of this state acquisition, the game state acquired is time-saving game state 1, so the door member of the normal electric mechanism 230 is opened for a long period of time (for example, 5740ms).

[0287] However, in this example, since the state transition process after a big win (step SB25) is executed after the normal symbol / normal electric mechanism control process (step SB23), the time-saving end condition will be met before the normal symbol / normal electric mechanism control process in the timer interrupt process following the timer interrupt process that sets the game state to time-saving game state 1 (1 time), thus preventing situations where the normal electric mechanism 230 opens for an extended period.

[0288] <Processing of the first sub-control unit 400> Next, the processing of the first sub-control unit 400 will be explained using Figure 19. Figure 19(a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400. Figure 19(b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400. Figure 19(c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400. Figure 19(d) is a flowchart of the image control processing of the first sub-control unit 400.

[0289] First, in step SE01 of the same figure (a), various initial settings are performed. When the power is turned on, the initialization process is executed in step SE01. This initialization process includes initial settings for input / output ports and initialization of the memory area in RAM408.

[0290] In step SE03, it is determined whether the timer variable is 10 or greater, and this process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10. When the timer variable becomes 10 or greater, the process moves to step SE05. In step SE05, 0 is assigned to the timer variable. In step SE07, command processing is performed. The CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400 determines whether or not it has received a command from the main control unit 300.

[0291] Step SE09 performs performance control processing. For example, if a new command was issued in step SE07, the corresponding performance data is read from ROM406, and if the performance data needs to be updated, the performance data update process is performed.

[0292] In step SE11, if the press of the performance button 136 is detected, the performance data updated in step SE09 is changed to performance data corresponding to the press of the performance button 136. In step SE13, if there is a command to VDP434 in the performance data read in step SE09, this command is output to VDP434 (details will be described later).

[0293] In step SE15, if the performance data read in step SE09 contains a command to the sound source IC, this command is output to the sound source IC. In step SE17, if the performance data read in step SE09 contains a command to the various lamps 418, this command is output to the drive circuit.

[0294] In step SE19, if the performance data read in step SE09 contains a command for the performance device 246, this command is output to the drive circuit. In step SE21, if the performance data read in step SE09 contains a control command to be sent to the second sub-control unit 500, the settings are configured to output this control command, and the process returns to step SE03.

[0295] Next, the command reception interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400 will be explained using Figure (b). This command reception interrupt processing is performed when the first sub-control unit 400 detects a strobe signal output by the main control unit 300. In step SF01 of the command reception interrupt processing, the command output by the main control unit 300 is stored as an unprocessed command in the command memory area provided in RAM 408.

[0296] Next, using Figure (c), the timer interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400, which is executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400, will be described. The first sub-control unit 400 is equipped with a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interval (once every 2ms in this embodiment), and triggers the timer interrupt processing at a predetermined interval based on this timer interrupt.

[0297] In step SG01 of the first sub-control unit timer interrupt processing, 1 is added to the value in the timer variable storage area of ​​RAM408, as explained in step SE03 of the first sub-control unit main processing, and the result is stored in the original timer variable storage area. Therefore, in step SE03, the timer variable value is determined to be 10 or greater every 20ms (2ms × 10).

[0298] In step SG03 of the first sub-control unit timer interrupt processing, control commands are sent to the second sub-control unit 500, which was set in step SE19, and random values ​​for performance are updated, etc.

[0299] Next, using Figure (d), the image control process of step SE13 in the main processing of the first sub-control unit 400 will be explained. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the image control process.

[0300] Step SH01 instructs the transfer of image data. Here, the CPU 404 first swaps the drawing area designations of display area A and display area B of the VRAM 436. As a result, one frame of image stored in the display area not designated as a drawing area is displayed on the decorative pattern display device 208. Next, the CPU 404 sets the ROM coordinates (source address of ROM 406), VRAM coordinates (destination address of VRAM 436), etc., in the attribute register of the VDP 434 based on the position information table, and then sets an instruction to start the transfer of image data from ROM 406 to VRAM 436. The VDP 434 transfers the image data from ROM 406 to VRAM 436 based on the instruction set in the attribute register. After that, the VDP 436 outputs a transfer completion interrupt signal to the CPU 404.

[0301] In step SH03, it is determined whether a transfer completion interrupt signal has been received from VDP434. If a transfer completion interrupt signal has been received, the process proceeds to step SH05; otherwise, it waits for a transfer completion interrupt signal to be received. In step SH05, parameter settings are performed based on the performance scenario configuration table and attribute data. Here, CPU404 instructs VDP434 to provide information on the image data that constitutes the display image (such as the coordinate axes of VRAM436, image size, and VRAM coordinates (placement coordinates)) in order to form a display image in display area A or B of VRAM436 based on the image data transferred to VRAM436 in step SH01. VDP434 then performs parameter settings according to the attributes based on the instructions stored in the attribute register.

[0302] In step SH07, a drawing command is issued. In this drawing command, CPU404 instructs VDP434 to start drawing the image. VDP434 starts drawing the image in the frame buffer according to the instruction from CPU404.

[0303] In step SH09, it is determined whether a generation completion interrupt signal has been received from VDP434 based on the completion of image drawing. If a generation completion interrupt signal has been received, the process proceeds to step SH11; otherwise, it waits for a generation completion interrupt signal to be received. In step SH11, the scene display counter, which is set in a predetermined area of ​​RAM408 and counts how many scenes have been generated, is incremented (+1) and the process ends.

[0304] <Processing by the second sub-control unit 500> Next, the processing of the second sub-control unit 500 will be explained using Figure 20. Figure 20(a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500. Figure 20(b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500. Figure 20(c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500.

[0305] First, in step SI01 of the same figure (a), various initial settings are performed. When the power is turned on, the initialization process is executed in step SI01. This initialization process includes initial settings for input / output ports and initialization of the memory area in RAM 508. In step SI03, it is determined whether the timer variable is 10 or greater, and this process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10. When the timer variable becomes 10 or greater, the process proceeds to step SI05.

[0306] In step SI05, the timer variable is assigned the value 0. In step SI07, command processing is performed. The CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500 determines whether or not it has received a command from the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400.

[0307] In step SI09, performance control processing is performed. For example, if a new command was issued in step SI07, processing such as reading the performance data corresponding to this command from ROM506 is performed, and if the performance data needs to be updated, performance data update processing is performed.

[0308] In step SI11, if there are commands from the first sub-control unit 400 to the lamps for the game board or the lamps for the game machine frame, these commands are output to the serial communication control circuit. In step SI13, if there are commands from the first sub-control unit 400 to the movable parts for the effects, these commands are output to the drive circuit, and the process returns to step SI03.

[0309] Next, the command reception interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500 will be explained using Figure (b). This command reception interrupt processing is performed when the second sub-control unit 500 detects a strobe signal output by the first sub-control unit 400. In step SJ01 of the command reception interrupt processing, the command output by the first sub-control unit 400 is stored as an unprocessed command in the command memory area provided in RAM 508.

[0310] Next, using Figure (c), the timer interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500, which is executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500, will be explained. The second sub-control unit 500 is equipped with a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interval (once every 2ms in this embodiment), and triggers the timer interrupt processing at a predetermined interval based on this timer interrupt.

[0311] In step SK01 of the second sub-control unit timer interrupt processing, 1 is added to the value in the timer variable storage area of ​​RAM 508, as explained in step SI03 of the second sub-control unit main processing shown in Figure 20(a), and the result is stored in the original timer variable storage area. Therefore, in step SI03, the timer variable value is determined to be 10 or greater every 20ms (2ms × 10). In step SK03 of the second sub-control unit timer interrupt processing, processing such as updating the random value for the performance is performed.

[0312] <Special Symbol Variation Game> Next, we will explain the special feature variation games (special feature 1 variation game and special feature 2 variation game) using Figure 21.

[0313] As explained using Figures 14(a) and (b), the first variable game mode is started when the ball detection sensor detects that a ball has entered the first variable game start opening 231, and the second variable game mode is started when the ball detection sensor detects that a ball has entered the second variable game start opening 232.

[0314] <Table for determining the win / loss status of special symbols in variable symbol games> Next, we will explain the table for determining whether a special symbol is a winner or loser using Figure 21(a). Figure 21(a) shows an example of a table for determining whether a special symbol is a winner or loser.

[0315] The table for determining whether this special symbol is a hit or miss is stored in the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300. The table stores the result of the special symbol variation game, the type of special symbol, and the lottery value data (random number range) for determining whether it is a hit or miss, all associated with each other. Note that the winning probability in Figure 21(a) is included for reference only.

[0316] The basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300 performs a special symbol 1 win / failure determination (or special symbol 2 win / failure determination) to determine the result of the special symbol 1 variable game (or special symbol 2 variable game) based on the table for determining the win / failure of this special symbol and the special symbol winning random value acquired at the time of the lottery.

[0317] In this example, when determining whether Special Feature 1 is a win or loss, if the acquired Special Feature 1 winning random number is between 0 and 65535, it is determined that the Special Feature 1 variable game is a win (minor win), and information indicating that it is a minor win is set in RAM308. Note that the possible numerical range of the Special Feature 1 winning random number is 0 to 65535 (the magnitude of the numerical range is 65536), and the numerical range of the lottery value data for the minor win in the Special Feature 1 variable game is 0 to 65535 (the magnitude of the numerical range is 65536). Therefore, the probability of winning a minor win in the Special Feature 1 variable game is 1 / 1 (=65536 / 65536), or 100%.

[0318] Furthermore, in the determination of whether Special Feature 2 is a win or loss, if the acquired Special Feature winning random number is between 0 and 655, it is determined that the Special Feature 2 variable game is a win (minor win), and information indicating that it is a minor win is set in RAM308. Note that the possible numerical range of the Special Feature winning random number is 0 to 65535 (the magnitude of the numerical range is 65536), and the numerical range of the lottery value data for the minor win in the Special Feature 2 variable game is 0 to 655 (the magnitude of the numerical range is 656). Therefore, the probability of winning a minor win in the Special Feature 2 variable game is 1 / 99.902 (=656 / 65536).

[0319] Furthermore, in the determination of whether the special symbol 2 wins or loses, if the acquired special symbol winning random number is between 656 and 65535, it is determined to be a time-saving symbol (sudden time-saving), and information indicating that it is a time-saving symbol is set in RAM308. Note that the possible numerical range of the special symbol winning random number is 0 to 65535 (the magnitude of the numerical range is 65536), and the numerical range of the lottery value data for the time-saving symbol in the special symbol 2 variable game is 656 to 65536 (the magnitude of the numerical range is 64881). Therefore, the probability of winning a time-saving symbol in the special symbol 2 variable game is 1 / 1.010 (=64881 / 65536). In this example, if the game state when the time-saving symbol stops is state a (time-saving game state), the game will transition to state c (time-saving game state) triggered by the time-saving symbol. However, if the game state when the time-saving symbol stops is any state other than state a (time-saving game state), the game will not transition to state c (time-saving game state) triggered by the time-saving symbol, even if the time-saving symbol stops. In other words, if the game state when the time-saving symbol stops is any state other than state a (time-saving game state), the time-saving symbol is treated the same as a miss.

[0320] In this example, we have shown an example where no jackpots are provided as a result of the judgment in the judgment of whether or not a jackpot is achieved in Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2. However, jackpots may be provided in addition to (or in place of) minor jackpots or time-saving symbols. When jackpots are provided, it is preferable that the game state after a jackpot is the same as the game state after a jackpot is achieved via a minor jackpot. For example, if a jackpot 1 is provided corresponding to minor jackpot 1, after the execution of jackpot 1, the game will transition to time-saving game 1 in the same way as when a jackpot is achieved via minor jackpot 1. Similarly, jackpots corresponding to minor jackpots 2 to 4 should be provided, and the distribution ratio described later should be the same as in this example, with minor jackpot 1 and jackpot 1 each accounting for 40% and minor jackpot 2 and jackpot 2 accounting for 60%. Also, when jackpots are provided, the winning probabilities for jackpots in Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 may be the same or different. Furthermore, the probability of winning a jackpot, minor win, or time-saving symbol in the Special Feature 1 variable game may be the same as, or different from, the probability of winning a jackpot, minor win, or time-saving symbol in the Special Feature 2 variable game.

[0321] <Special Symbol Variation Game / Special Symbol Judgment Table for Minor Wins and Sudden Time Reduction> Next, we will explain the special symbol judgment table for minor wins and sudden time reductions using Figures 21(b) to (d).

[0322] Figure 21(b) shows an example of a special symbol judgment table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (non-time reduction game state), Figure 21(c) shows an example of a special symbol judgment table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state), and Figure 21(d) shows an example of a special symbol judgment table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (c time reduction game state).

[0323] These special symbol judgment tables for minor wins and sudden time-saving features are stored in the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300. The special symbol judgment tables for minor wins and sudden time-saving features store the symbol type and the lottery value data for symbol distribution (not shown) in association with each other. The items in the figure, such as the probability of symbol distribution, jackpot R, and game state after jackpot / time-saving feature symbol stop, are included for reference only. In this specification, "low probability time-saving game state" may be simply referred to as "time-saving game state".

[0324] The basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300, when a minor win is determined by the special symbol 1 win / failure determination described above, or when a minor win or time-saving mode is determined by the special symbol 2 win / failure determination described above, performs a symbol distribution lottery to determine the stopping symbols for the special symbol 1 variable game (or special symbol 2 variable game) based on the special symbol win / failure determination table for these minor wins / sudden time-saving modes and the random value obtained at the time of the lottery.

[0325] In this example, the system is configured to refer to one of the three types of special symbol judgment tables for minor wins and sudden time-saving features, depending on the game state when determining whether a special symbol 1 win or loss occurs (or when determining whether a special symbol 2 win or loss occurs).

[0326] Specifically, if the game state at the time of the win / loss determination of Special Symbol 1 (or Special Symbol 2) is a non-time-saving game state, the symbol distribution lottery is performed by referring to the special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time-saving (non-time-saving game state) shown in Figure 21(b). If the game state at the time of the win / loss determination of Special Symbol 1 (or Special Symbol 2) is a time-saving game state, the symbol distribution lottery is performed by referring to the special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time-saving (a time-saving game state) shown in Figure 21(c). If the game state at the time of the win / loss determination of Special Symbol 1 (or Special Symbol 2) is c time-saving game state, the symbol distribution lottery is performed by referring to the special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time-saving (c time-saving game state) shown in Figure 21(d).

[0327] Here, the non-time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch the game ball into the left area (first game area) of the game area 124, and the time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch the game ball into the right area (second game area) of the game area 124. Furthermore, time-saving game state 3 is the state in which it is most difficult to win among time-saving game states 1 to 3. Furthermore, time-saving game state a is a time-saving game state that is entered after a big win game, and time-saving game state c is a time-saving game state that is entered when a time-saving symbol is won in the special feature 2 variable game.

[0328] The numbers in parentheses in the "Game state after a big win / after the time-saving symbols stop" section of the special symbol judgment table for minor wins and sudden time-saving modes, such as "Low probability time-saving game state 1 (2 times)" and "Low probability time-saving game state 1 (1 time)," indicate the termination conditions for each game state, and in this example, it is the number of spins for special symbol 1 or special symbol 2.

[0329] For example, in Low Probability Shortened Play State 1 (2 times), Low Probability Shortened Play State 1 ends when the number of spins of Special Symbol 1 reaches 2, when the number of spins of Special Symbol 2 reaches 2, or when the combined number of spins of Special Symbol 1 and Special Symbol 2 reaches 2. In Low Probability Shortened Play State 1 (1 time), Low Probability Shortened Play State 1 ends when the number of spins of Special Symbol 1 reaches 1, or when the number of spins of Special Symbol 2 reaches 1.

[0330] Furthermore, in Low Probability Short-Time Game State 2 (2 times), Low Probability Short-Time Game State 2 ends when the number of spins of Special Figure 1 reaches 2, when the number of spins of Special Figure 2 reaches 2, or when the combined number of spins of Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 reaches 2. In Low Probability Short-Time Game State 3 (2 times), Low Probability Short-Time Game State 3 ends when the number of spins of Special Figure 1 reaches 2, when the number of spins of Special Figure 2 reaches 2, or when the combined number of spins of Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 reaches 2. In Low Probability Short-Time Game State 3 (150 times), Low Probability Short-Time Game State 3 ends when the number of spins of Special Figure 1 reaches 150, when the number of spins of Special Figure 2 reaches 150, or when the combined number of spins of Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 reaches 150.

[0331] Furthermore, the termination conditions for the number of spins in Special Figure 1, the termination conditions for the number of spins in Special Figure 2, and the termination conditions for the combined number of spins in Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 may be set to different values, or only partially different values. For example, in Low Probability Short-Time Game State 1 (2 spins, 2 spins, 3 spins), Low Probability Short-Time Game State 1 may be terminated when the number of spins in Special Figure 1 reaches 2, when the number of spins in Special Figure 2 reaches 2, or when the combined number of spins in Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 reaches 3. In addition, termination conditions other than the number of spins in Special Figures may be added, for example, a termination condition for the number of spins in Normal Figures may be added.

[0332] If the result of the Special Symbol 1 win / loss determination is a minor win, regardless of the game state at the time of the Special Symbol 1 win / loss determination, Special Symbol A (minor win 1) is selected with a winning probability of 40 / 100, and Special Symbol B (minor win 2) is selected with a winning probability of 60 / 100.

[0333] Special Feature A (Minor Win 1) results in a 10R jackpot when the game ball passes through a specific area, and a 10R jackpot game is played with the variable prize entry points 234 opening. After this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (2 times). Special Feature B (Minor Win 2) results in a 10R jackpot when the game ball passes through a specific area, and a 10R jackpot game is played with the variable prize entry points 234 opening. After this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (1 time).

[0334] If the result of the Special Feature 2 win / fail judgment is a minor win, regardless of the game state at the time of the Special Feature 2 win / fail judgment, Special Feature C (minor win 3) is selected with a winning probability of 50 / 100, and Special Feature D (minor win 4) is selected with a winning probability of 50 / 100.

[0335] Special Feature C (Minor Win 3) results in a 10R jackpot when the game ball passes through a specific area, and a 10R jackpot game is played with the variable prize entry points 234 opening. If the game state at the time of the Special Feature 2 win / fail determination is a non-time-saving game state, the game transitions to a low-probability non-time-saving game state after the jackpot game. If the game state at the time of the Special Feature 2 win / fail determination is a time-saving game state or c time-saving game state, the game transitions to time-saving game state 2 (twice) after the jackpot game.

[0336] Special Feature D (Minor Win 4) results in a 2R jackpot when the game ball passes through a specific area, and a 2R jackpot game is played in which the variable prize entry 234 opens. If the game state at the time of the Special Feature 2 win / fail determination is a non-time-saving game state, the game transitions to a low-probability non-time-saving game state after the jackpot game. If the game state at the time of the Special Feature 2 win / fail determination is a time-saving game state or c time-saving game state, the game transitions to time-saving game state 3 (twice) after the jackpot game.

[0337] If the result of the Special Feature 2 win / failure determination is a time-saving symbol, Special Feature E (time-saving symbol 1) is selected with a winning probability of 20 / 100, and Special Feature F (time-saving symbol 2) is selected with a winning probability of 80 / 100. Special Feature E (time-saving symbol 1) and Special Feature F (time-saving symbol 2) do not result in a big win, but it is possible to transition to a time-saving game state. If the game state at the time of the Special Feature 2 win / failure determination is time-saving game state a, it transitions to time-saving game state 3 (150 spins). If the game state at the time of the Special Feature 2 win / failure determination is non-time-saving game state or time-saving game state c, the game state does not change, and it is treated the same as a miss.

[0338] <Special Symbol Variation Game / Discard / Interruption Control During Special Symbol Variation> Next, we will explain the discard / interruption control during special feature fluctuations using Figure 21(e). Figure 21(e) is a diagram showing an example of discard / interruption control during special feature fluctuations.

[0339] In this example, the enclosed gaming machine 100 is a simultaneous variation machine, and therefore, while the variation of one of the two special feature variations, the variation of the other, is in progress, the variation of the other may stop. In such cases, the basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300 controls the special feature variation game based on the rules for discard / interruption control during special feature variation shown in Figure 21(e). Note that the diagonal lines in the figure indicate impossible situations, and the "-" in the figure indicates that neither interruption nor discarding occurs (nothing is done).

[0340] For example, if the result of the Special Feature 2 win / fail judgment is a minor win or a time-saving symbol, and Special Feature 2 is in motion, and the Special Feature 1 motion display time has elapsed and the minor win symbol of Special Feature 1 is displayed, the Special Feature 2 motion display will be discarded. Also, if the result of the Special Feature 1 win / fail judgment is a minor win, and Special Feature 1 is in motion, and the Special Feature 2 motion display time has elapsed and the minor win symbol of Special Feature 2 is displayed, the progress of the Special Feature 1 motion display time will be interrupted until the big win triggered by the minor win of Special Feature 2 is completed.

[0341] <Normal Graph Variable Game> Next, we will explain the regular figure variation game using Figure 22.

[0342] As explained using Figure 14(c), the regular variation game starts when the ball detection sensor detects that a ball has entered the regular start opening 228.

[0343] <Table for determining the win / loss status of regular symbols in variable symbol games> Next, we will explain the table for determining whether a regular symbol is a winner or loser using Figure 22(a). Figure 22(a) shows an example of a table for determining whether a regular symbol is a winner or loser.

[0344] The table for determining whether a regular symbol is a winner or loser is stored in the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300. The table stores the winner / loser result of the regular symbol and the range of random values ​​in association with each other. Note that the winning probability in Figure 22(a) is included for reference only.

[0345] The basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300 performs a normal symbol win / fail determination, which determines the result of the normal symbol variation game, based on the normal symbol win / fail determination table and the random value obtained during the lottery.

[0346] In this example, when determining whether a regular symbol wins or loses, if the acquired random number for winning a regular symbol is between 0 and 204, it is determined that the regular symbol variation game is won, and information indicating a win is set in RAM308. The possible range of the random number for winning a regular symbol is 0 to 65535 (the magnitude of the range is 65536), and the range of the winning lottery value data for the regular symbol variation game is 0 to 204 (the magnitude of the range is 205). Therefore, the probability of winning the regular symbol variation game is 1 / 319.688 (=205 / 65536). On the other hand, when determining whether a regular symbol wins or loses, if the acquired random number for winning a regular symbol is between 205 and 65535, it is determined that the regular symbol variation game is lost, and information indicating a loss is set in RAM308.

[0347] <Normal Diagram Variable Game / Normal Diagram Judgment Table> Next, we will explain the general diagram determination table using Figures 22(b) to (d).

[0348] Figure 22(b) shows an example of a normal diagram judgment table (non-time-saving game state), Figure 22(c) shows an example of a normal diagram judgment table (a time-saving game state), and Figure 22(d) shows an example of a normal diagram judgment table (c time-saving game state).

[0349] These symbol determination tables are stored in the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300. Each symbol determination table stores the symbol type and the lottery value data for symbol distribution (not shown) in association with each other. The notes in the diagram describe the operation of the distribution unit (upper distribution unit 808 and lower distribution unit 860) explained using Figure 10 for reference (details will be described later).

[0350] The basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300, when it is determined that a win has been achieved through the above-mentioned regular symbol win / failure determination, performs a symbol distribution lottery to determine the stopping symbols for the regular symbol variation game based on these regular symbol win / failure determination tables and random values ​​obtained at the time of the lottery.

[0351] In this example, the system is configured to refer to one of the three types of regular symbol judgment tables depending on the game state at the time of the regular symbol win / loss determination.

[0352] Specifically, if the game state at the time of determining whether a regular symbol win or loss is in a non-time-saving game state, the symbol distribution lottery is performed by referring to the regular symbol determination table (non-time-saving game state) shown in Figure 22(b). If the game state at the time of determining whether a regular symbol win or loss is in a time-saving game state, the symbol distribution lottery is performed by referring to the regular symbol determination table (a time-saving game state) shown in Figure 22(c). If the game state at the time of determining whether a regular symbol win or loss is in c time-saving game state, the symbol distribution lottery is performed by referring to the regular symbol determination table (c time-saving game state) shown in Figure 22(d).

[0353] Here, the "non-electric two-open route" described in the remarks section of the general diagram judgment table refers to a route that guides a ball that enters the ball entry port 826 of the general electric mechanism 230 to a ball passage that activates both the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866. The "non-electric one-open route" refers to a route that guides a ball that enters the ball entry port 826 of the general electric mechanism 230 to a ball passage that activates only the upper lever unit 864. The "non-electric unopen route" refers to a route that guides a ball to a ball passage that does not activate either the upper lever unit 864 or the lower lever unit 866.

[0354] If the result of the normal diagram win / loss judgment is a win, regardless of the game state at the time of the normal diagram win / loss judgment, normal diagram A will be selected with a winning probability of 20 / 100, and normal diagram B will be selected with a winning probability of 80 / 100.

[0355] If Normal Diagram A is selected in a non-time-saving game state, as described later, the normal electric mechanism 230 is operated in an operating mode corresponding to Normal Diagram A, and the balls that enter are guided to two non-electric open routes by the distribution units 808 and 860. If Normal Diagram B is selected in a non-time-saving game state, as described later, the normal electric mechanism 230 is operated in an operating mode corresponding to Normal Diagram B, and the balls that enter are guided to one non-electric open route by the distribution units 808 and 860.

[0356] On the other hand, if either Normal Diagram A or Normal Diagram B is selected in either the a-time-saving game state or the c-time-saving game state, as will be described later, the normal electric mechanism 230 is operated in a manner corresponding to Normal Diagram A or Normal Diagram B, and the balls that enter are guided to the non-electric, unopened route by the distribution units 808 and 860. Thus, in this example, even if a ball is entered into the Normal Diagram start opening 228 by shooting to the left (a shooting method that launches the game ball into the left area of ​​the game area 124) in the time-saving game state, and the result of the Normal Diagram hit / fail judgment is a hit, the ball is guided to the non-electric, unopened route, so the upper non-electric mechanism 229a and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b do not become open.

[0357] If, for example, in the so-called RUSH state of time-saving game state 3 (150 spins), when a normal diagram A or normal diagram B is won, the player is not guided to the non-electric unopened route. In this case, when the number of spins required to end the time-saving game state is low, the player can shoot to the left to get the ball into the normal diagram start opening 228, and by making the result of the normal diagram hit / fail judgment a hit, the player can re-enter the so-called RUSH state. The probability of winning in the normal diagram variation game is low, but if a hit is won, the player is guaranteed to enter RUSH, making it more advantageous for the player than trying to win in the normal diagram variation game after RUSH has ended.

[0358] <Operation of regular electric mechanism in variable-ratio games / normal electric mechanism> Next, the operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 during the regular figure variation game will be explained using Figures 22(e) to (h).

[0359] <Normal variable gameplay / Operation of normal electric mechanism / OP time> Figure 22(e) shows an example of the opening time for a standard electric device. Here, the opening time for a standard electric device is the time from when the stop display of standard diagram A or standard diagram B ends on the standard diagram display device until the operation of the standard electric device 230 begins.

[0360] In this example, if regular diagram A is selected in the regular diagram win / fail judgment during a non-time-saving game state, the regular electric mechanism OP time is set to 23500ms. If regular diagram B is selected in the regular diagram win / fail judgment during a non-time-saving game state, the regular electric mechanism OP time is set to 9020ms. If regular diagram A or regular diagram B is selected in the regular diagram win / fail judgment during a time-saving game state, the regular electric mechanism OP time is set to 9000ms.

[0361] <Normally variable gameplay / Operation of normal electric mechanisms / Opening and closing operations> Figure 22(f) shows an example of the operation of a standard electric mechanism. Here, the open time is the time during which the door members of the standard electric mechanism 230 (in this example, the electric tuner door 822 and the electric tuner sensor front door 824) are kept in the open state, and the closed time is the time during which the door members of the standard electric mechanism 230 are kept in the closed state.

[0362] In this example, if regular symbol A is selected in the symbol distribution lottery for regular symbol variation game in a non-time-saving game state, the opening and closing times of the regular electric mechanism 230 are set to 60ms and 7700ms for the first time and 2800ms and 11040ms for the second time and 2800ms and 11040ms for the third time. Hereafter, this opening and closing operation of the regular electric mechanism 230 may be referred to as "regular electric operation mode 3".

[0363] Furthermore, if regular symbol B is selected in the symbol distribution lottery for regular symbol variation game in a non-time-saving game state, the opening and closing times of the regular electric mechanism 230 for the first time are set to 60ms and 1000ms, respectively, the opening and closing times for the second time are set to 2800ms and 11040ms, respectively, and the opening time for the third time is set to 2800ms. Hereafter, this opening and closing operation of the regular electric mechanism 230 may be referred to as "regular electric operation mode 2".

[0364] Furthermore, if either Normal Diagram A or Normal Diagram B is selected in the normal diagram win / loss determination during the time-saving game state, the first opening and closing times of the normal electric mechanism 230 are set to 60ms and 25840ms, respectively, and the second opening time is set to 5740ms. Hereafter, this opening and closing operation of the normal electric mechanism 230 may be referred to as "Normal Electric Operation Mode 1".

[0365] <Normal variable gameplay / Operation of normal electric mechanism / Closing> Figure 22(g) shows an example of the closing time for a standard electric mechanism. Here, the closing time for a standard electric mechanism refers to the time during which the door member of the standard electric mechanism 230 is maintained in the closed state after it has been controlled to open and close in the manner of operation of the standard electric mechanism shown in Figure 22(f).

[0366] In this example, the closing time for the normal electric mechanism is set to 2000ms, regardless of the type of symbol selected in the normal symbol win / fail judgment or the game state at the time of the normal symbol win / fail judgment.

[0367] <Normal variable gameplay / Operation of normal electric mechanism / Ending time> Figure 22(h) shows an example of the ED time for a standard electric mechanism. Here, the ED (ending) time for a standard electric mechanism refers to the time from when the standard electric mechanism 230 is kept in the closed state according to the standard electric mechanism closing time until the operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 is terminated.

[0368] In this example, if either Normal Diagram A or Normal Diagram B is selected in the normal diagram win / fail judgment during non-time-saving gameplay, the normal electric mechanism ED time is set to 3000ms. If either Normal Diagram A or Normal Diagram B is selected in the normal diagram win / fail judgment during time-saving gameplay, the normal electric mechanism ED time is set to 2000ms.

[0369] <Operation of standard electric devices when passing through a standard electric gate> Next, using Figure 23, we will explain the operation of the standard electric mechanism when passing through the standard electric gate.

[0370] As explained using Figure 2, when a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the standard electric operation gate 235, the standard electric mechanism 230 is activated.

[0371] <Operation / Operation Time of Standard Electric Equipment Due to Passing Through Standard Electric Gate> Figure 23(a) shows an example of the operating time from passing through the standard electric gate to the start of operation of the standard electric mechanism.

[0372] Here, the OP (opening) time from passing through the standard power gate to the start of operation of the standard electric mechanism (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "standard electric mechanism OP time due to passing through the standard power gate" or "OP time") is the time from when the ball detection sensor detects that the ball has passed through the standard power gate 235 until the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 begins.

[0373] The main control unit 300 determines whether the ball has passed through the normal operation gate 235, and if the ball has passed through the normal operation gate 235 (when the ball passes through the normal operation gate 235), it acquires the current game state (performs state acquisition). Then, it sets the OP time corresponding to the game state acquired when the ball passed through the normal operation gate 235.

[0374] In this example, if the game state acquired when the ball passes through the standard power gate 235 is a non-time-saving game state, the standard electric mechanism OP time due to passing through the standard power gate is set to 800ms. If the game state acquired when the ball passes through the standard power gate 235 is a time-saving game state, the standard electric mechanism OP time due to passing through the standard power gate is also set to 800ms. In other words, in this example, the same OP time is set regardless of the game state when the ball passes through the standard power gate 235. However, different OP times may be set depending on the game state when the ball passes through the standard power gate 235.

[0375] <Operation / opening / closing of standard electric mechanisms when passing through a standard electric gate> Figure 23(b) shows an example of the operation of a standard electric device after passing through the standard electric operation gate.

[0376] Here, in Figure 23(b), "open time" refers to the time during which the door members of the standard electric mechanism 230 (in this example, the electric tuner door 822 and the electric tuner sensor front door 824) are kept in the open state, and "closed time" refers to the time during which the door members of the standard electric mechanism 230 are kept in the closed state.

[0377] The main control unit 300 determines whether the set OP time has elapsed, and if the set OP time has elapsed (when the opening and closing operation of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 begins), it acquires the current game state (performs state acquisition). Then, it sets the operation mode (open time, close time) corresponding to the game state acquired when the opening and closing operation of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 began, and controls the opening and closing of the door member of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 according to the set operation mode.

[0378] In this example, if the game state acquired at the start of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 is a non-time-saving game state, the first opening time is set to 60ms, and a short opening is performed, opening the door member of the standard electric mechanism 230 for a short time (60ms in this example). Hereafter, this opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 may be referred to as "Standard Electric Operation Mode 6". If the game state acquired at the start of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 is a time-saving game state 1, the first opening time and closing time are set to 60ms and 7700ms, respectively, and the second opening time is set to 5740ms, performing a long opening, opening the door member of the standard electric mechanism 230 for a long time (5740ms in this example). Hereafter, this opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 may be referred to as "Standard Electric Operation Mode 4".

[0379] If the game state acquired at the start of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 is time-saving game state 2, the first opening time and closing time are set to 60ms and 1000ms, respectively, and the second opening time is set to 5740ms, performing a long opening where the door member of the standard electric mechanism 230 is open for a long period of time (5740ms in this example). Hereafter, this opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 may be referred to as "standard operation mode 5". If the game state acquired at the start of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 is time-saving game state 3, the first opening time is set to 64ms, performing a short opening where the door member of the standard electric mechanism 230 is opened for a short period of time (64ms in this example). Hereafter, this opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 may be referred to as "standard operation mode 7".

[0380] <Operation / closing of standard electric mechanisms upon passing through a standard electric gate> Figure 23(c) shows an example of the closing time for a standard electric safety device after passing through a standard electric operation gate.

[0381] Here, the closing time of the ordinary electric mechanism after passing through the ordinary electric operation gate refers to the time during which the door member of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 is maintained in the closed state after it has been controlled to open and close in the ordinary electric mechanism operation mode shown in Figure 23(b).

[0382] The main control unit 300 determines whether the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 has finished, and if the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 has finished (at the time of completion of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230), it acquires the current game state (performs state acquisition). Then, it sets a closing time corresponding to the game state acquired at the time of completion of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230, and closes the door member of the standard electric mechanism 230 for the set closing time.

[0383] In this example, if the game state acquired at the end of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 is a non-time-saving game state, the closing time of the standard electric mechanism 230 is set to 2000ms. If the game state acquired at the end of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 is a time-saving game state, the closing time of the standard electric mechanism 230 is set to 2000ms. In other words, in this example, the same closing time is set regardless of the game state at the end of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230. Alternatively, different closing times may be set depending on the game state at the end of the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230.

[0384] <Operation of standard electric devices / ED time when passing through a standard electric gate> Figure 23(d) shows an example of the ED time for a standard electric motor after passing through the standard electric motor gate.

[0385] Here, the normal electric mechanism ED (ending) time after passing through the normal electric operation gate refers to the time from when the normal electric mechanism 230 is kept in a closed state according to the normal electric mechanism closing time until the operation of the normal electric mechanism 230 is terminated.

[0386] In this example, if a ball passes through the normal power operation gate 235 in a non-time-saving game state or time-saving game state 3, the normal electric mechanism ED time is set to 20ms, and if a ball passes through the normal power operation gate 235 in time-saving game state 1 or time-saving game state 2, the normal electric mechanism ED time is set to 20000ms.

[0387] Furthermore, the reason why the normal electric mechanism ED time when a ball passes through the normal operation gate 235 in the shortened play state 1 or shortened play state 2 is set to 20,000 ms, which is significantly longer than the time (approximately 4 seconds on average) from when a ball launched into the right area of ​​the play area 124 (second play area) passes through a certain point (first point) in the right area of ​​the play area 124 until it is detected by the normal operation gate 235 (detection means) is that, for example, if the normal electric mechanism ED time were set to 5,000 ms, if someone attempting to cheat were to hold the game ball at a certain point (first point) using a magnet or the like until the normal electric mechanism ED time ends, and then move the magnet away and let the held game ball flow down and pass through the normal operation gate 235, the normal electric mechanism 230 would reopen in a manner that allows the game ball to enter.

[0388] However, in Time-Saving Game State 1 and Time-Saving Game State 2, there is usually a high probability that Special Symbol 2 is held in reserve, and as soon as you transition to Time-Saving Game State 1 or Time-Saving Game State 2, it starts to spin, and as will be explained in detail later, the long spin of Special Symbol 2 at this timing is 16 seconds. And since most of the long spins of Special Symbol 2 here are time-saving symbols, even if you wait until the normal electric mechanism ED time (20000ms) ends, the long spin of Special Symbol 2 will end and the time-saving symbols will stop and the game will transition to Time-Saving Game State c (150 spins) before the normal electric mechanism ED time (20000ms) ends, so you will actually lose money, and thus fraudulent activity can be suppressed.

[0389] In other words, when a ball passes through the normal operation gate 235 in the time-saving game state 1 or time-saving game state 2, the normal electric mechanism ED time (closing time, or closing time + ED time) is preferably longer than the time (in this example, an average of about 4 seconds) from when a ball launched into the right area of ​​the game area 124 (second game area) passes through a certain point (first point) in the right area of ​​the game area 124 until it is detected by the normal operation gate 235 (detection means), and furthermore, a time value longer than the long variation in Special Figure 2 (in this example, 16 seconds) is preferable.

[0390] <Operation / enabled / deactivated status of standard electric devices upon passing through a standard electric gate> Figure 23(e) shows the enabled / disabled state of the standard power gate 235 when a game ball passes through it.

[0391] The processing status of the standard electric operation gate indicates the processing status related to the operation of the standard electric operation gate 235 and the operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 due to the passage of a ball into the standard electric operation gate 235, and can be broadly classified into the standard electric operation gate standby state, standard electric operation OP, standard electric mechanism operation in progress, standard electric mechanism operation completed, and standard electric operation ED.

[0392] The normal operation gate standby state is the state in which the normal operation gate 235 is waiting for the ball to pass through, normal operation OP is the state of waiting for the normal electric mechanism OP time to elapse due to the passage of the normal operation gate as explained using Figure 23(a), normal electric mechanism operation state is the state in which the normal electric mechanism 230 is operating in the normal electric mechanism operation mode after the passage of the normal operation gate as explained using Figure 23(b), normal electric mechanism operation end state is the state of waiting for the normal electric mechanism closing time to elapse after the passage of the normal operation gate as explained using Figure 23(c), and normal operation ED is the state of waiting for the normal electric mechanism ED time to elapse due to the passage of the normal operation gate as explained using Figure 23(d).

[0393] The normal symbol processing state indicates the processing state related to normal variable gameplay and the operation of the normal electric mechanism 230 due to normal variable gameplay, and can be broadly divided into normal symbol standby, normal symbol variation in progress, normal electric mechanism OP, normal electric mechanism operation in progress, normal electric mechanism operation end, and normal electric mechanism ED.

[0394] "Normal symbol standby" is the state of waiting for the start of the normal symbol variation game; "Normal symbol variation in progress" is the state of the normal symbol variation game in progress; "Normal electric OP" is the state of waiting for the normal electric mechanism OP time to elapse, as explained using Figure 22(e); "Normal electric mechanism in operation" is the state in which the normal electric mechanism 230 is operating in the normal electric mechanism operation mode, as explained using Figure 22(f); "Normal electric mechanism operation end" is the state of waiting for the normal electric mechanism closing time to elapse, as explained using Figure 22(g); and "Normal electric ED" is the state of waiting for the normal electric mechanism ED time to elapse, as explained using Figure 22(h).

[0395] If the normal operation gate processing state is the normal operation gate standby state and the normal symbol processing state is normal symbol standby or normal symbol variation, or if the normal operation gate standby state is the normal operation gate standby state and the judgment result of the normal symbol variation game is a miss and the normal symbol processing state is normal symbol OP, then the passage of the ball through the normal operation gate 235 becomes effective, and the opening and closing control of the normal electric mechanism 230 due to the passage of the ball through the normal operation gate 235 is executed.

[0396] On the other hand, if the normal operation gate processing state is the normal operation gate standby state, and the result of the normal symbol variation game is a win, and the normal symbol processing state is normal operation OP, normal electric mechanism in operation, normal electric mechanism operation finished, or normal operation ED, then the passage of the ball through the normal operation gate 235 is invalid, and the opening and closing control of the normal electric mechanism 230 due to the passage of the ball through the normal operation gate 235 is not performed.

[0397] Furthermore, if the normal operation gate processing state is normal operation OP, normal electric mechanism in operation, normal electric mechanism operation finished, or normal operation ED (when the normal electric mechanism 230 is operating due to the passage of a ball through the normal operation gate 235), regardless of the normal symbol processing state (regardless), the passage of a ball through the normal operation gate 235 is invalid, and the opening and closing control of the normal electric mechanism 230 due to the passage of a ball through the normal operation gate 235 is not performed.

[0398] <Operation of standard electric devices by passing through a standard electric gate / Discard / interruption control during standard display fluctuations> Figure 23(f) shows an example of discard / interruption control during normal fluctuations.

[0399] In this example, the enclosed gaming machine 100 may have balls passing through the normal operation gate 235 during the execution of the normal rotation game. In such cases, the basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300 controls the normal rotation game based on the discard / interruption control rules during normal rotation shown in Figure 23(f).

[0400] In this example, if the ball passes through the normal power operation gate 235 while the normal diagram variation display is in progress, the progress of the normal diagram variation display time will be interrupted until the ED time after passing through the normal power operation gate ends, regardless of the result of the normal diagram variation display during the variation.

[0401] <Operation of standard electric prizes upon passing through the standard electric gate / Standard electric operation patterns and settings for valid prize entry into non-electric zones> Figure 23(g) shows the relationship between the normal operation mode of the standard electric prize mechanism 230 and the setting for effective winning of non-electric prizes.

[0402] In normal operation modes 1, 6, and 7, that is, operation modes that lead to the non-electric, unopened route, entry into the upper non-electric mechanism 229a (first special feature start opening 231a) and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b (first special feature start opening 231b) is set to invalidate. Specifically, when operating in normal operation modes 1, 6, or 7, even if a ball enters the upper non-electric mechanism 229a (first special feature start opening 231a) or the lower non-electric mechanism 229b (first special feature start opening 231b) and the ball detection sensor detects the ball, that detection is treated as invalid (invalidating both the right to change special feature 1 and the prize ball). Alternatively, only the right to change special feature 1 may be invalidated while the prize ball remains valid.

[0403] In normal operation modes 2 and 5, that is, operation modes that guide the player to a route with one non-electric opening, only one ball is allowed to enter the upper non-electric mechanism 229a (first special symbol start opening 231a) (subsequent balls are invalid), and the entry of the lower non-electric mechanism 229b (first special symbol start opening 231b) is invalid.

[0404] In the normal operation modes 3 and 4, that is, operation modes that guide the player to the two non-electric opening routes, only one ball is set to be valid for entry into the upper non-electric mechanism 229a (first special symbol start opening 231a) (subsequent balls are invalid), and only one ball is set to be valid for entry into the lower non-electric mechanism 229b (first special symbol start opening 231b) (subsequent balls are invalid).

[0405] In this example of a sealed-type gaming machine 100, special feature 1 always results in a minor win (big win). Therefore, if an over-entry occurs into the non-electric mechanism (first special feature start opening), more big wins will occur than the original number. To prevent this over-entry, measures are taken to prevent over-entry, as explained in Figure 4, etc., by changing the shape of the non-electric mechanism. In addition, as explained above, even if an over-entry occurs, the validity or invalidity of entry into the non-electric mechanism is set according to the normal operation mode, thus preventing more big wins from occurring than the original number.

[0406] <Operation of standard electric components and distribution units> Next, using Figure 24, the operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 and the distribution units (upper distribution unit 808, lower distribution unit 860) will be explained.

[0407] Figure 24(a) shows a list of the distribution unit operation timings.

[0408] The operation of the distribution unit in this example (upper distribution unit 808, lower distribution unit 860) consists of 10 different operation patterns, from operation 1 to operation 10. Operation 1 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned OFF (not operating) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned OFF (not operating) during a period of t1 = 28 ms, and corresponds to the non-powered, unopened route explained using Figure 23(f).

[0409] Operation 2 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned ON (operated) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned OFF (not operated) during the period t2 = 20 ms, and corresponds to the non-electric single open route explained using Figure 23(f).

[0410] Operation 3 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned ON (operated) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned ON (operated) during the period t3 = 20 ms, and corresponds to the two non-electrified open routes explained using Figure 23(f).

[0411] Operation 4 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned OFF (not in operation) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned OFF (not in operation) during the period t4 = 1000 ms, and corresponds to the non-powered, unopened route explained using Figure 23(f).

[0412] Operation 5 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned ON (operated) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned OFF (not operated) during the period t5 = 6700 ms, and corresponds to the non-electric single-open route explained using Figure 23(f).

[0413] Operation 6 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned ON (operated) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned ON (operated) during the period t6 = 7140 ms, and corresponds to the two non-electrified open routes explained using Figure 23(f).

[0414] Operation 7 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned ON (operated) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned OFF (not operated) during the period t7 = 3800 ms, and corresponds to the non-electric single-open route explained using Figure 23(f).

[0415] Operation 8 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned OFF (not activated) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned OFF (not activated) during the period t8 = 2900 ms, and corresponds to the non-powered, unopened route explained using Figure 23(f).

[0416] Operation 9 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned ON (operated) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned ON (operated) during the period t9 = 4300 ms, and corresponds to the two non-electrified open routes explained using Figure 23(f).

[0417] Operation 10 is an operation pattern in which the upper distribution unit 808 is turned OFF (not in operation) and the lower distribution unit 860 is turned OFF (not in operation) during the period t10 = 7240 ms, and corresponds to the non-powered, unopened route explained using Figure 23(f).

[0418] Figure 24(b) is an example of a time chart showing the operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 and the distribution units 808 and 860.

[0419] As shown in the figure, the distribution units 808 and 860 start operation 1 in conjunction with the opening of the standard electric mechanism 230, perform operations up to operation 10, and then stop operation. Note that they are configured not to operate when the standard electric mechanism 230 is not performing opening or closing operations.

[0420] As explained using Figure 22(f), when regular diagram A is selected in the regular diagram win / loss determination in a non-time-saving game state, the first opening time TAo1 and closing time TAc1 of the regular electric mechanism 230 are set to 60ms and 7700ms, respectively, the second opening time TAo2 and closing time TAc2 are set to 2800ms and 11040ms, respectively, and the third opening time TAo3 is set to 2800ms. The regular electric mechanism 230 then opens and closes at the timing shown in Figure 24(b) as "Regular electric mechanism Regular diagram A (non-time-saving)".

[0421] In the opening and closing operation of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 shown in this "Ordinary Electric Mechanism Diagram A (Non-Time-Saving)", during the period of the second opening time TAo2, the distribution units (upper distribution unit 808, lower distribution unit 860) operate in the operation pattern of operation 6 (t6), that is, in the non-electric two-opening route, and during the period of the third opening time TAo3 of the ordinary electric mechanism 230, the distribution units (upper distribution unit 808, lower distribution unit 860) operate in the operation pattern of operation 9 (t9), that is, in the non-electric two-opening route.

[0422] Furthermore, as explained using Figure 22(f), if Normal Diagram B is selected in the normal diagram win / loss determination in a non-time-saving game state, the first opening time TBo1 and closing time TBc1 of the normal electric mechanism 230 are set to 60ms and 1000ms, respectively, the second opening time TBo2 and closing time TBc2 are set to 2800ms and 11040ms, respectively, and the third opening time TBo3 is set to 2800ms. The normal electric mechanism 230 then opens and closes at the timing indicated as "Normal Electric Mechanism Normal Diagram B (Non-Time-Saving)" in Figure 24(b).

[0423] In the opening and closing operation of the ordinary electric device 230 shown in this "Ordinary Electric Device Normal Diagram B (Non-Time-Saving)", during the second opening time TBo2, the distribution units (upper distribution unit 808, lower distribution unit 860) operate in the operation pattern of operation 5 (t5), that is, in the non-electric single opening route, and during the third opening time TAo3 of the ordinary electric device 230, the distribution units (upper distribution unit 808, lower distribution unit 860) operate in the operation pattern of operation 7 (t7), that is, in the non-electric single opening route.

[0424] Furthermore, as explained using Figure 22(f), if either Normal Diagram A or Normal Diagram B is selected in the normal diagram win / loss determination during the time-saving game state, the first opening time TABo1 and closing time TABc1 of the normal electric mechanism 230 are set to 60ms and 25840ms, respectively, and the second opening time TABo2 is set to 5740ms, respectively, and the normal electric mechanism 230 opens and closes at the timing indicated as "Normal Electric Mechanism Normal Diagram A, B (Time-Saving)" in Figure 24(b).

[0425] In the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 shown in "Standard Electric Mechanism Diagram A, B (Time-Saving)", during the period of the second opening time TABo2, the distribution units (upper distribution unit 808, lower distribution unit 860) operate in the operation pattern of operation 10 (t10), that is, the non-electric, non-opening route.

[0426] During the first opening time TABo1, there are times when the upper distribution unit 808 and the lower distribution unit 860 are turned ON during certain periods (t2 and t3). However, the opening time of the normal electric mechanism 230 is extremely short at 60ms, and since no game balls ever enter the normal electric mechanism 230 in the first place, the game balls are never guided to the non-electric single opening route or the non-electric double opening route.

[0427] Here, we have explained the operation of the regular electric mechanism 230 and distribution units 808 and 860 during normal variable gameplay. However, the operation of the regular electric mechanism 230 and distribution units 808 and 860 when a ball passes through the regular electric operation gate 235 is similar. In conjunction with the opening of the regular electric mechanism 230 when a ball passes through the regular electric operation gate 235, the distribution units 808 and 860 start operation 1, perform up to operation 10, and then end their operation.

[0428] For example, in the time-saving game state 1, when a ball passes through the normal operation gate 235 (normal operation mode 4), the first opening time of the normal electric mechanism 230 is 60ms, the closing time is 7700ms, and the second opening time is 5740ms. In other words, during the second opening, the distribution units 808 and 860 are operating in operation pattern 6 (t6), that is, the period when two non-electric opening routes are in operation.

[0429] <Transition of game state> Next, using Figure 25, we will explain the transition of game states in the enclosed gaming machine 100.

[0430] <Game state transitions / state transition timing> Figure 25(a) is a diagram showing a list of state transition timings.

[0431] In the diagram, the "Minor Win" listed under the "Type" column refers to the minor wins (in this example, Special Symbols A to D) resulting from the special symbol variation game, as explained using Figure 21(a), etc., while the "Time-Saving Symbols" refer to the time-saving symbols (in this example, Special Symbols E and F) resulting from the special symbol variation game, as explained using Figure 21(a), etc.

[0432] Furthermore, the "normal symbols" refer to the winning results of the normal symbol variation game (in this example, normal symbol A and normal symbol B), as explained using Figure 22(a), etc., and the normal power operation gate refers to the normal power operation gate 235, as explained using Figure 23(a), etc.

[0433] If the result of the special symbol variation game is a minor win (special symbol A to special symbol D), the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) at the start of the special symbol variation, that is, in the special symbol variation start process (step SC17) of the special symbol / special electric mechanism control process explained using Figure 17. The game state to which the player will transition after a major win via a minor win is determined by referring to the game state acquired here.

[0434] Furthermore, at the start of a special symbol variation, the number of special symbol variations, which is the termination condition for the time-saving game state, is subtracted to determine whether or not to terminate the time-saving game state. If the termination condition for the time-saving game state is met, the time-saving game state is terminated. If the state acquisition and the time-saving game state termination timing occur at the same time, the state acquisition is performed first, and then the time-saving game state is terminated.

[0435] For example, if the remaining number of spins in the time-saving game state is 1, and the result of the judgment is a minor win (minor win C), then the variable game of Special Figure 2 starts, the remaining number of spins in the time-saving game state is reduced by 1, and the time-saving game state ends. However, because the state is acquired before the process of ending the time-saving game state is completed, after the big win (10R) via minor win C is executed, the game transitions to time-saving game state 2 (2 spins) instead of the non-time-saving game state (see Figure 21).

[0436] If the result of the special symbol variation game is a time-saving symbol (special symbol E, special symbol F), at the start of the special symbol variation, that is, in the special symbol variation start processing (step SC17) of the special symbol / special electric mechanism control processing explained using Figure 17, a determination is made as to whether or not to end the time-saving game state by subtracting the number of special symbol variations, which is the termination condition for the time-saving game state. On the other hand, at the start of the special symbol stop display, that is, in the special symbol stop processing (step SC15) of the special symbol / special electric mechanism control processing explained using Figure 17, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed), and a determination is made as to whether or not to start the time-saving game state due to the winning of a time-saving symbol by referring to the game state acquired here. If the conditions for starting the time-saving game state are met (the game state at the start of the stop display of the special symbol that won the time-saving symbol is the time-saving game state), the time-saving game state due to the winning of a time-saving symbol is started.

[0437] If the result of the normal symbol variation game is a win (normal symbol A, normal symbol B), the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) at the end of the normal symbol stop display, that is, in the normal symbol stop processing of the normal symbol / normal electric mechanism control processing (step SB23) of the main control unit timer interrupt processing explained using Figure 16. The normal electric mechanism operation mode is determined by referring to the game state acquired here.

[0438] When a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the normal operation gate 235, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) when the set normal electric mechanism OP time due to passing through the normal operation gate has elapsed (when the opening and closing operation of the normal electric mechanism 230 begins), as explained using Figure 23(b). The normal electric mechanism operation time and ED time after passing through the normal operation gate are determined by referring to the game state acquired here.

[0439] As noted in the margin of Figure 25(a), if the timing for acquiring the state and the timing for ending (or starting) the time-saving game state occur simultaneously, the processing will be in the order of acquiring the state → ending (or starting) the time-saving game state (state acquisition takes priority). Also, if Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 change simultaneously, the changes will be processed in the order of Special Figure 1 → Special Figure 2 (Special Figure 1 takes priority).

[0440] <Example 1 of game state transitions / state changes> Figure 25(b) is a time chart showing example 1 of a state transition, which is an example of a time chart when the time-saving symbol 2 stops in time-saving game state 1 (twice) and the game transitions to time-saving game state 3.

[0441] In this example, in the time-saving game state 1 (2 times), after the ball passes through the normal operation gate 235, the time-saving symbol 2 (special symbol F) is hit during the second spin of special symbol 2.

[0442] As explained using Figure 25(a), if the result of the special symbol variation game is a time-saving symbol (special symbol E, special symbol F), a determination is made at the start of the special symbol stop display to determine whether or not to start the time-saving game state due to the winning of a time-saving symbol. If the conditions for starting the time-saving game state are met, the time-saving game state due to the winning of a time-saving symbol is started.

[0443] In this example, at the start of the stop display of Special Figure 2, indicated by symbol T1b, a determination is made as to whether or not to start the time-saving game state 3 (150 spins) due to the winning of a time-saving symbol. If the start condition is met, the game transitions to time-saving game state 3 (150 spins) due to the winning of a time-saving symbol.

[0444] Furthermore, as explained using Figure 25(a), when a ball passes through the standard electric gate 235, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) when the set standard electric mechanism OP time for passing through the standard electric gate has elapsed (when the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 begins). In this example, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) when the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230, indicated by symbol T1c, begins.

[0445] As explained using Figure 23(b), the main control unit 300 sets an operating mode (opening time, closing time) corresponding to the game state acquired when the opening and closing operation of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 begins, and controls the opening and closing of the door member of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 according to the set operating mode.

[0446] In this example, since the game state acquired when the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 begins is the time-saving game state 3, the first opening time is set to 64ms, and a short opening is performed in which the door member of the standard electric mechanism 230 is opened for a short time (64ms in this example).

[0447] Furthermore, if the timing for acquiring the status of the normal operation gate is, for example, "when the ball passes through the normal operation gate" as indicated by symbol T1a, then the game state acquired at that timing will be the time-saving game state 2, resulting in a long opening of the door member of the normal electric mechanism 230 for an extended period (5740 ms in this example).

[0448] However, in this example, the timing for transitioning to time-saving game state 3 (150 spins) due to winning a time-saving symbol is when the stop display of special symbol 2, indicated by symbol T1b, begins, and the timing for acquiring the state of the normal operating gate is when the opening and closing operation of the normal electric mechanism 230, indicated by symbol T1c, begins. Therefore, the game state acquired at the timing for acquiring the state of the normal operating gate 235 is time-saving game state 3, and even if the ball passes through the normal operating gate 235 when winning a time-saving symbol 2 (special symbol F) in time-saving game state 1 (2 spins), it is possible to prevent the normal electric mechanism 230 from being opened for a long time in conjunction with the ball passing through the normal operating gate 235.

[0449] <Example of game state transition / state transition 2> Figure 25(c) is a time chart showing example 2 of state transitions, which is an example of a time chart when the game transitions to the normal game state after either the time-saving symbol 1 or the time-saving symbol 2 stops in the time-saving game state 1 (1 time).

[0450] In this example, in the time-saving game state 1 (1 time), after the ball passes through the normal operation gate 235, the player wins either time-saving symbol 1 (special symbol E) or time-saving symbol 2 (special symbol F) during the first spin of special symbol 2.

[0451] As explained using Figure 25(a), if the result of the special symbol variation game is a time-saving symbol (special symbol E, special symbol F), at the start of the special symbol variation, a determination is made as to whether or not to terminate the time-saving game state by subtracting the number of special symbol variations, which is the condition for ending the time-saving game state.

[0452] In this example, at the start of the variation in Special Figure 2, indicated by symbol T2b, a determination is made as to whether or not to terminate the time-saving game state 1 (1 time). If the conditions for terminating the time-saving game state are met, the time-saving game state 1 (1 time) is terminated, and the game transitions to the normal game state (non-time-saving game state).

[0453] Furthermore, as explained using Figure 25(a), if the result of the special symbol variation game is a time-saving symbol (special symbol E, special symbol F), the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) at the start of the special symbol stop display. In this example, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) at the start of the special symbol 2, indicated by code T2c, stop display.

[0454] Therefore, the time-saving symbols do not become active, and the game state is not set from the a time-saving game state to the c time-saving game state.

[0455] Furthermore, as explained using Figure 25(a), when a ball passes through the standard electric operation gate 235, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) when the set standard electric mechanism OP time for passing through the standard electric operation gate has elapsed (when the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 begins). In this example, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) when the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230, indicated by symbol T2d, begins.

[0456] As explained using Figure 23(b), the main control unit 300 sets an operating mode (opening time, closing time) corresponding to the game state acquired when the opening and closing operation of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 begins, and controls the opening and closing of the door member of the ordinary electric mechanism 230 according to the set operating mode.

[0457] In this example, since the game state acquired when the opening and closing operation of the standard electric mechanism 230 begins is a non-time-saving game state, the first opening time is set to 60ms, and a short opening is performed in which the door member of the standard electric mechanism 230 is opened for a short time (60ms in this example).

[0458] Furthermore, if the timing for acquiring the status of the normal operation gate is, for example, "when the ball passes through the normal operation gate" as indicated by symbol T2a, then the game state acquired at that timing will be the time-saving game state 1, resulting in a long opening of the door member of the normal electric mechanism 230 for an extended period (5740ms in this example).

[0459] However, in this example, as explained using Figure 18, since only the state transition process after a big win (step SB25) is executed after the normal symbol / normal electric mechanism control process (step SB23), the time-saving end condition is met before the normal symbol / normal electric mechanism control process in the timer interrupt process following the timer interrupt process that sets the game state to time-saving game state 1 (1 time), thus preventing situations where the normal electric mechanism 230 opens for an extended period.

[0460] <How to play the game> Next, using Figures 26 and 27, we will explain the flow of gameplay in the enclosed gaming machine 100.

[0461] Figure 26 is a game flow showing an example of the first half of gameplay in the enclosed gaming machine 100, and Figure 27 is a game flow showing an example of the second half of gameplay in the enclosed gaming machine 100.

[0462] <Gameplay Flow / Normal Diagram Variation Game> In Figure 26, in the normal game state (non-time-saving game state) indicated by symbol (a), when a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the normal ball start opening 228, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the normal ball variation game is started by the normal ball display device.

[0463] In the regular symbol variation game, a regular symbol win / fail judgment is performed to determine the result of the regular symbol variation game based on the regular symbol win / fail judgment table shown in Figure 22(a) and the random value obtained at the time of the draw. If the regular symbol win / fail judgment determines a win, a symbol distribution lottery is performed to determine the stopping symbols of the regular symbol variation game based on the regular symbol win / fail judgment table (non-time-saving game state) shown in Figure 22(b) and the random value obtained at the time of the draw.

[0464] In this example, if the result of the normal diagram win / loss judgment is a win, normal diagram A is selected with a winning probability of 20 / 100 (normal diagram A win), and normal diagram B is selected with a winning probability of 80 / 100 (normal diagram B win). When normal diagram A is selected in a non-time-saving game state, the normal electric mechanism 230 operates in a manner that guides the game ball to two non-electric open routes, and when normal diagram B is selected in a non-time-saving game state, the normal electric mechanism 230 operates in a manner that guides the game ball to one non-electric open route.

[0465] <Gameplay Flow / Normal Diagram Variation Game (Normal Diagram A Hit) / First Half> Next, using Figure 26, we will explain the flow of the first half of the game when you win with regular figure A in a regular figure variation game while in a normal game state (non-time-saving game state).

[0466] In the normal game state (non-time-saving game state) indicated by symbol (a) in Figure 26, if the player wins regular figure A in the regular figure variation game (in the case of a regular figure A win indicated by symbol (b) in Figure 26), the operation mode of the regular electric mechanism 230 is set to regular electric operation mode 3 indicated by symbol (c) in Figure 26 (in this example, as shown in Figure 22(f), the first opening time and closing time are 60ms and 7700ms, the second opening time and closing time are 2800ms and 11040ms, and the third opening time is 2800ms).

[0467] Then, a ball enters the ordinary electric mechanism 230 which is opened in the normal electric operation mode 3, and the ball that entered passes through the two non-electric opening routes, activating both the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866, changing the upper non-electric mechanism 229a and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b to an open state (non-electric 1 and 2 openings, indicated by the symbol (d) in Figure 26).

[0468] When a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the first special feature start opening 231a of the upper non-electric mechanism 229a, or when a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the first special feature start opening 231b of the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the special feature 1 variable game is started by the first special feature display device.

[0469] Furthermore, if, during the period in which the Special Feature 1 variable game is being played due to a ball entering the first special feature start opening 231 of either the upper non-electric mechanism 229a or the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, a ball enters the other first special feature start opening 231 of either the upper non-electric mechanism 229a or the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, the Special Feature 1 variable game will be put on hold. In other words, if the regular variable game results in a win on regular A, the Special Feature 1 variable game will be played twice.

[0470] In the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game, a Special Symbol 1 win / fail judgment is performed to determine the result of the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game based on the special symbol win / fail judgment table shown in Figure 21(a) and the acquired special symbol winning random number. If this Special Symbol 1 win / fail judgment determines a minor win, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed), and the special symbol judgment table for minor wins / sudden time reduction (non-time reduction game state) shown in Figure 21(b), which corresponds to the current game state (non-time reduction game state), is referenced. Based on this special symbol judgment table for minor wins / sudden time reduction (non-time reduction game state) and the random number acquired at the time of the draw, a symbol distribution lottery is performed to determine the stopping symbols of the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game.

[0471] In this example, in the special figure 1 win / loss determination, a minor win is achieved 100% of the time, special figure A (minor win 1) is selected with a winning probability of 40 / 100, and special figure B (minor win 2) is selected with a winning probability of 60 / 100. If special figure A (minor win 1) is selected, a 10R jackpot game is played via minor win 1, indicated by symbol (e) in Figure 26, and after this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (2 times), indicated by symbol (f) in the same figure. If special figure B (minor win 2) is selected, a 10R jackpot game is played via minor win 2, indicated by symbol (g) in the same figure, and after this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (1 time), indicated by symbol (h) in the same figure.

[0472] When non-electric 1 and 2 are open, one Special Feature 1 variable game is reserved. Therefore, when the 10R jackpot game via minor win 1 + time-saving game state 1 (2 times) or the 10R jackpot game via minor win 2 + time-saving game state 1 (1 time) ends, the Special Feature 1 variable game will start based on the reserved Special Feature 1.

[0473] In the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game, a Special Symbol 1 win / fail judgment is performed to determine the result of the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game based on the special symbol win / fail judgment table shown in Figure 21(a) and the acquired special symbol winning random number. If this Special Symbol 1 win / fail judgment determines a minor win, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed), and the special symbol judgment table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state) shown in Figure 21(c), which corresponds to the current game state (a time reduction game state), is referenced. Based on this special symbol judgment table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state) and the random number acquired at the time of the draw, a symbol distribution lottery is performed to determine the stopping symbols of the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game.

[0474] In this example, in the special figure 1 win / loss determination, a minor win is achieved 100% of the time, special figure A (minor win 1) is selected with a winning probability of 40 / 100, and special figure B (minor win 2) is selected with a winning probability of 60 / 100. If special figure A (minor win 1) is selected, a 10R jackpot game is played via minor win 1, indicated by symbol (i) in Figure 26, and after this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (2 times), indicated by symbol (j) in the same figure. If special figure B (minor win 2) is selected, a 10R jackpot game is played via minor win 2, indicated by symbol (k) in the same figure, and after this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (2 times), indicated by symbol (l) in the same figure.

[0475] Thus, even if the first Special Symbol 1 win / loss determination results in a win with Special Symbol B (minor win 2), and the game state after the big win transitions to the time-saving game state 1 which ends after one round, the state is acquired before the process of ending the time-saving game state is performed at the start of the next Special Symbol 1 variation. Therefore, just like when Special Symbol A (minor win 1) is won, after the second big win, the game transitions to the time-saving game state 1 which ends after two rounds.

[0476] <Gameplay flow / Normal diagram variation game (Normal diagram A win) / Second half> Next, using Figure 27, we will explain the flow of the latter half of the game when you win with regular diagram A in a regular diagram variation game during a normal game state (non-time-saving game state).

[0477] In Figure 27, at the timing indicated by symbol A, if a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that the ball has passed through the second special feature start opening 232, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the special feature 2 variable game is started by the second special feature display device. Alternatively, after the non-electric 1 and 2 indicated by symbol (d) in Figure 26 are opened, the state of so-called right-hand shooting, where game balls are launched toward the right area, continues, and since special feature 2 is usually held in reserve, the special feature 2 variable game starts at the timing when the jackpot ends.

[0478] In the Special Symbol 2 Variable Game, a Special Symbol 2 win / failure determination is performed to determine the result of the Special Symbol 2 Variable Game based on the special symbol win / failure determination table shown in Figure 21(a) and the acquired special symbol winning random number. If this Special Symbol 2 win / failure determination determines a minor win, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed), and the special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state) shown in Figure 21(c), which corresponds to the current game state (a time reduction game state), is referenced. Based on this special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state) and the random number acquired at the time of the draw, a symbol distribution lottery is performed to determine the stopping symbols of the Special Symbol 2 Variable Game.

[0479] <Gameplay flow / Normal symbol variation gameplay (Normal symbol A win) / Second half (Special symbol 2 long variation)> Next, using Figure 27, we will explain the flow of the game when, after winning a regular figure A in a regular figure variation game, a long variation is won in a special figure 2 variation game.

[0480] In Figure 27, if a minor win is determined in the special figure 2 win / loss judgment at the timing indicated by symbol A, special figure C (minor win 3) is selected with a 50 / 100 probability, and special figure D (minor win 4) is selected with a 50 / 100 probability. If special figure C (minor win 3) or special figure D (minor win 4) is selected, a long variation is performed in which the variation display of special figure 2 continues for a long period of time (16 seconds in this example) (minor win 3,4 winning variation (long variation) indicated by symbol (m) in Figure 27).

[0481] Furthermore, in the Special Feature 2 win / loss determination, if a time-saving symbol is selected, Special Feature E (Time-Saving Symbol 1) is selected with a winning probability of 20 / 100, and Special Feature F (Time-Saving Symbol 2) is selected with a winning probability of 80 / 100. If Special Feature E (Time-Saving Symbol 1) is selected, a long variation is performed in which the variation display of Special Feature 2 continues for a long period of time (16 seconds in this example) (the Time-Saving Symbol 1 winning variation (long variation) indicated by the symbol (n) in Figure 27).

[0482] Although not shown in the diagram, in the time-saving game state 1 after a big win following a win on special symbol A (minor win 1) in normal gameplay, and in the time-saving game state 1 after a big win following a win on special symbols A and B (minor wins 1 and 2) in time-saving gameplay, a variation pattern table for special symbol 2 is set so that a long variation is selected when a minor win is won and when special symbol E (time-saving symbol 1) is won, and a short variation (0.2 seconds in this example) is selected when special symbol F (time-saving symbol 2) is won. On the other hand, in all other cases except the so-called RUSH state (for example, time-saving game state 1 after a big win following a win on special symbol B (minor win 2) in normal gameplay, and time-saving game state 3 after a big win following a win on special symbols C and D (minor wins 3 and 4) in time-saving game state 3), a variation pattern table is set so that a long variation (16 seconds in this example) is not selected.

[0483] During the long fluctuation period shown in Figure 2, if a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the normal operation gate 235, the normal electric mechanism 230 is activated. In this example, the operation mode of the normal electric mechanism 230 is set to normal operation mode 4, indicated by the symbol (o) in Figure 27 (in this example, as shown in Figure 22(f), the first opening time and closing time are 60ms and 7700ms, respectively, and the second opening time is 5740ms).

[0484] Then, a ball enters the ordinary electric mechanism 230 which is opened in the normal electric operation mode 4, and the ball that entered passes through the two non-electric opening routes, activating both the upper lever unit 864 and the lower lever unit 866, changing the upper non-electric mechanism 229a and the lower non-electric mechanism 229b to an open state (non-electric 1 and 2 openings, indicated by the symbol (p) in Figure 27).

[0485] When a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the first special feature start opening 231a of the upper non-electric mechanism 229a, or when a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the first special feature start opening 231b of the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the special feature 1 variable game is started by the first special feature display device.

[0486] In the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game, a Special Symbol 1 win / fail judgment is performed to determine the result of the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game based on the special symbol win / fail judgment table shown in Figure 21(a) and the acquired special symbol winning random number. If this Special Symbol 1 win / fail judgment determines a minor win, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed), and the special symbol judgment table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state) shown in Figure 21(c), which corresponds to the current game state (a time reduction game state), is referenced. Based on this special symbol judgment table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state) and the random number acquired at the time of the draw, a symbol distribution lottery is performed to determine the stopping symbols of the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game.

[0487] As explained using the discard / interruption control during special symbol variation shown in Figure 21(e), if the result of the special symbol 2 win / failure determination is a minor win or a time-saving symbol, and the minor win symbol is displayed when the special symbol 1 variation display time has elapsed, the result of the special symbol 2 win / failure determination is discarded.

[0488] In this example, since a minor win is guaranteed 100% of the time in the special figure 1 win / fail judgment, the judgment result for special figure 2 win / fail judgment is discarded, and special figure A (minor win 1) is selected with a winning probability of 40 / 100, and special figure B (minor win 2) is selected with a winning probability of 60 / 100. If special figure A (minor win 1) is selected, a 10R jackpot game via minor win 1, indicated by symbol (q) in Figure 27, is played, and after this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (2 times), indicated by symbol (r) in the same figure. If special figure B (minor win 2) is selected, a 10R jackpot game via minor win 2, indicated by symbol (s) in the same figure, is played, and after this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (2 times), indicated by symbol (t) in the same figure. Note that the flow from the sign (r) and sign (t) onwards is similar to the flow from the sign (f) and sign (h) onwards in Figure 26.

[0489] Traditionally, the decision of whether or not to add to the payout was made based on the game state transitioning after a big win, meaning that the payout could not be announced until after the variable gameplay had started during the later stages of the big win. However, according to this example, if the variable gameplay in Special Feature 2 is a long variable gameplay, a 3000-ball payout will occur. Therefore, by predicting the result of the judgment for the variable gameplay in Special Feature 2, it is possible to determine whether or not a payout will occur based on the judgment result, and it is possible to announce the payout even during the early stages of the big win, as explained using Figure 26. The announcement effect based on predicting the result of the judgment for the variable gameplay in Special Feature 2 will be described later.

[0490] The above-mentioned long variation time value (16 seconds) is just an example. The long variation time value must be at least the time it takes for the launched game ball to pass through the normal operation gate 235 and for the normal electric mechanism OP time to elapse due to passing through the normal operation gate to expire. Any time value greater than or equal to this is acceptable, whether it is 16 seconds or less. However, it is preferable to set a longer time, as there may be cases where the right-hand shot is not taken immediately after the long variation starts, or where the game ball gets stuck for some reason and cannot pass through the normal operation gate 235 in the normal time. Even if a long time such as 1 hour is set, as mentioned above, the long variation display is discarded when the small win symbol is displayed with the symbols (q) or (s). Therefore, if the game is played correctly (using the normal method), the variation will not continue for 1 hour.

[0491] <Gameplay flow / Normal symbol variation gameplay (Normal symbol A win) / Second half (Short variation of special symbol 2)> Next, using Figure 27, we will explain the flow of the game when, after winning a regular figure A in a regular figure variation game, a short variation is won in a special figure 2 variation game.

[0492] In Figure 27, if the special symbol 2 win / loss determination at the timing indicated by symbol A results in a win of the time-saving symbol, special symbol E (time-saving symbol 1) is selected with a winning probability of 20 / 100, and special symbol F (time-saving symbol 2) is selected with a winning probability of 80 / 100. If special symbol F (time-saving symbol 2) is selected, a short variation is performed in which the variation display of special symbol 2 continues for a short period of time (0.2 seconds in this example) (the time-saving symbol 2 winning variation (short variation) indicated by symbol (u) in Figure 27).

[0493] Furthermore, since the game state at the time of the win / loss determination for Special Feature 2 is the time-saving game state a, the game transitions to time-saving game state 3 (150 spins), indicated by the symbol (v) in Figure 27, resulting in the so-called RUSH state. In other words, if you win with Normal Feature A during a normal Feature variation game in a non-time-saving game state, you will ultimately transition to the RUSH state.

[0494] As explained using Figure 25(b), the timing for transitioning to time-saving game state 3 (150 spins) due to winning a time-saving symbol is when the stop display of special symbol 2, indicated by symbol T1b in Figure 25(b), starts. The timing for acquiring the state of the normal power operation gate 235 is when the opening and closing operation of the normal electric mechanism 230, indicated by symbol T1c in Figure 25(b), starts. Therefore, the game state acquired at the timing of acquiring the state of the normal power operation gate is time-saving game state 3. Even if a ball passes through the normal power operation gate 235 when winning a time-saving symbol 2 (special symbol F) in time-saving game state 1 (2 spins), it is possible to prevent the normal electric mechanism 230 from opening for a long time in conjunction with the ball passing through the normal power operation gate 235.

[0495] The above-mentioned short-time fluctuation time value (0.2 seconds) is just an example; the short-time fluctuation time value may be 0.2 seconds or more, or 0.2 seconds or less, but it must be at least shorter than the normal electric mechanism opening time when passing through the normal operation gate. For example, if there are no reserved balls in Special Feature 2 when the game enters time-saving game state 1, and the player shoots to the right, the game balls will enter (pass through) the normal operation gate 235 and the second special feature start opening 232 in succession. However, if the short-time fluctuation time value is shorter than the normal electric mechanism opening time when passing through the normal operation gate, the game will transition to time-saving game state 3 (c time-saving) when the normal electric mechanism opens and closes, and the normal electric mechanism 230 will not open for a long time.

[0496] In the Special Symbol 2 variation game in Low Probability Shortened Game State 3 (150 spins), a Special Symbol 2 win / fail judgment is performed to determine the result of the Special Symbol 2 variation game based on the special symbol win / fail judgment table shown in Figure 21(a) and the acquired special symbol winning random number. If this Special Symbol 2 win / fail judgment determines a minor win, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed), and the special symbol judgment table for minor wins / sudden shortened game states (c shortened game state) shown in Figure 21(d), which corresponds to the current game state (c shortened game state), is referenced. Based on this special symbol judgment table for minor wins / sudden shortened game states (c shortened game state) and the random number acquired at the time of the draw, a symbol distribution lottery is performed to determine the stopping symbols of the Special Symbol 2 variation game.

[0497] In this example, if a minor win is selected in the special symbol 2 win / fail judgment, the symbol distribution lottery for the special symbol 2 variable game selects special symbol C (minor win 3) with a winning probability of 50 / 100, and special symbol D (minor win 4) with a winning probability of 50 / 100. If special symbol C (minor win 3) is selected, a 10R big win game via minor win 3, indicated by the symbol (w) in Figure 27, is played, and after this big win game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 2 (2 times), indicated by the symbol (x) in the same figure. If special symbol D (minor win 4) is selected, a 2R big win game via minor win 4, indicated by the symbol (y) in the same figure, is played, and after this big win game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 3 (2 times), indicated by the symbol (z) in the same figure. On the other hand, if the time-saving symbol is selected in the special figure 2 win / loss determination, it will be a loss, indicated by the symbol (aa) in the figure, and nothing will be done.

[0498] Next, after the execution of the time-saving game state 2 (twice) indicated by the symbol (x) in Figure 27 (at the timing indicated by the symbol C in the same figure), if a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the normal electric operation gate 235, the normal electric mechanism 230 is activated. In this example, the operation mode of the normal electric mechanism 230 is set to normal operation mode 5 indicated by the symbol (ab) in Figure 27 (in this example, the opening and closing times for the first time are 60ms and 1000ms, respectively, and the opening time for the second time is 5740ms).

[0499] Then, a ball enters the ordinary electric mechanism 230 which is opened in the normal electric operation mode 5, and the ball that entered passes through the non-electric opening route, activating the lower lever unit 866 and changing the lower non-electric mechanism 229b to an open state (non-electric 2 opening, indicated by the symbol (ac) in Figure 27).

[0500] When a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the first special feature start opening 231 of the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the special feature 1 variable game is started by the first special feature display device.

[0501] In the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game, a Special Symbol 1 win / failure determination is performed to determine the result of the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game based on the special symbol win / failure determination table shown in Figure 21(a) and the acquired special symbol winning random number. If this Special Symbol 1 win / failure determination determines a minor win, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed), and the special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (c time reduction game state) shown in Figure 21(d), which corresponds to the current game state (c time reduction game state), is referenced. Based on this special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (c time reduction game state) and the random number acquired at the time of the draw, a symbol distribution lottery is performed to determine the stopping symbols of the Special Symbol 1 Variable Game.

[0502] In this example, in the special figure 1 win / loss determination, a minor win is achieved with 100% probability. Special figure A (minor win 1) is selected with a 40 / 100 winning probability, and special figure B (minor win 2) is selected with a 60 / 100 winning probability. If special figure A (minor win 1) is selected, a 10R jackpot game is played via minor win 1, indicated by symbol (ad) in Figure 27. After this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (2 times), indicated by symbol (ae) in the same figure. If special figure B (minor win 2) is selected, a 10R jackpot game is played via minor win 2, indicated by symbol (af) in the same figure. After this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 1 (2 times), indicated by symbol (ag) in the same figure. The subsequent game flow will be omitted from this explanation.

[0503] In Figure 27, if a minor win is determined in the special symbol 2 win / loss judgment after the execution of the time-saving game state 3 (2 times) indicated by symbol (z), special symbol C (minor win 3) is selected with a winning probability of 50 / 100, and special symbol D (minor win 4) is selected with a winning probability of 50 / 100. If special symbol C (minor win 3) is selected, a major win game via minor win 3 (1500 balls) indicated by symbol (ah) in Figure 27 is performed, and after this major win game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 2 (2 times) indicated by symbol (ai) in the same figure. If special symbol D (minor win 4) is selected, a major win game via minor win 4 (300 balls) indicated by symbol (aj) in the same figure is performed, and after this major win game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 3 (2 times) indicated by symbol (ak) in the same figure.

[0504] In Figure 27, if a time-saving symbol is selected in the special symbol 2 win / loss determination after the execution of time-saving game state 3 (2 times), indicated by symbol (z), special symbol E (time-saving symbol 1) is selected with a winning probability of 20 / 100, and special symbol F (time-saving symbol 2) is selected with a winning probability of 80 / 100. Then, regardless of whether special symbol E (time-saving game 1) or special symbol F (time-saving symbol 2), indicated by symbol (al) in Figure 27, is selected, the game transitions to time-saving game state 3 (150 times), indicated by symbol (am) in the same figure. The subsequent flow of the game will be omitted from the explanation.

[0505] <Gameplay Flow / Normal Diagram Variation Game (Normal Diagram B Win) / First Half> Next, using Figure 26, we will explain the flow of the first half of the game when you win regular figure B in a regular figure variation game during a normal game state (non-time-saving game state).

[0506] In the normal game state (non-time-saving game state) indicated by symbol (a) in Figure 26, if the player wins regular figure B in the regular figure variation game (in the case of a regular figure B win indicated by symbol (B) in Figure 26), the operation mode of the regular electric mechanism 230 is set to regular electric operation mode 2 indicated by symbol (C) in Figure 26 (in this example, as shown in Figure 22(f), the first opening time and closing time are 60ms and 1000ms, respectively, the second opening time and closing time are 2800ms and 11040ms, respectively, and the third opening time is 2800ms).

[0507] Then, a ball enters the ordinary electric mechanism 230 which is opened in the normal electric operation mode 2, and the ball that entered passes through the non-electric 1 opening route, activating the lower lever unit 866 and changing the lower non-electric mechanism 229b to an open state (non-electric 2 opening, indicated by the symbol (D) in Figure 26).

[0508] When a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the first special feature start opening 231 of the lower non-electric mechanism 229b, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the special feature 1 variable game is started by the first special feature display device.

[0509] If you win with regular symbol B in the regular symbol variation game, the special symbol 1 variation game will be executed once. Note that the flow of the game after the special symbol 1 variation game is the same as when you win with regular symbol A in the regular symbol variation game, except that the number of special symbol 1 variation games is 1 instead of 2, so the explanation will be omitted (the explanation for Figures 27(E) to (H) is the same as the explanation for Figures 27(e) to (h)).

[0510] In this example, the type of win is announced when the ball enters the regular symbol starting gate 228, as the type of win is announced when the ball enters the regular symbol starting gate 228. In addition, since the transition to RUSH is confirmed, it is also possible to announce that the player will be transitioning to RUSH.

[0511] <Gameplay flow / Normal diagram variation game (Normal diagram B win) / Second half> Next, using Figure 27, we will explain the flow of the latter half of the game when the player wins regular figure B in a regular figure variation game during a normal game state (non-time-saving game state).

[0512] In Figure 26, after the execution of the time-saving game state 1 (1 time) indicated by symbol (H) (at the timing indicated by symbol B in Figure 27), if a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the second special feature start opening 232, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the special feature 2 variable game is started by the second special feature display device.

[0513] In the Special Symbol 2 Variable Game, a Special Symbol 2 win / failure determination is performed to determine the result of the Special Symbol 2 Variable Game based on the special symbol win / failure determination table shown in Figure 21(a) and the acquired special symbol winning random number. If this Special Symbol 2 win / failure determination determines a minor win, the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed), and the special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state) shown in Figure 21(c), which corresponds to the current game state (a time reduction game state), is referenced. Based on this special symbol determination table for minor wins and sudden time reductions (a time reduction game state) and the random number acquired at the time of the draw, a symbol distribution lottery is performed to determine the stopping symbols of the Special Symbol 2 Variable Game.

[0514] In this example, if a minor win is selected in the special figure 2 win / fail judgment, special figure C (minor win 3) is selected with a 50 / 100 probability, and special figure D (minor win 4) is selected with a 50 / 100 probability. If special figure C (minor win 3) is selected, a 10R jackpot game is played via minor win 3, indicated by symbol (I) in Figure 27, and after this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 2 (2 times), indicated by symbol (J) in the same figure. If special figure D (minor win 4) is selected, a 2R jackpot game is played via minor win 4, indicated by symbol (K) in the same figure, and after this jackpot game, the game transitions to time-saving game state 3 (2 times), indicated by symbol (L) in the same figure.

[0515] On the other hand, if a time-saving symbol is selected in the special symbol 2 win / loss determination, special symbol E (time-saving symbol 1) is selected with a winning probability of 20 / 100, and special symbol F (time-saving symbol 2) is selected with a winning probability of 80 / 100. Then, regardless of whether special symbol E (time-saving game 1) or special symbol F (time-saving symbol 2), indicated by symbol (M) in the same figure, is selected, the game transitions to the normal game state indicated by symbol (N) in the same figure.

[0516] As explained using Figure 25(c), when the time-saving game state 1 (1 time) transitions to the normal game state by stopping either time-saving symbol 1 or time-saving symbol 2, a determination is made at the start of the variation of special symbol 2, indicated by code T2b in Figure 25(c), to determine whether or not to terminate time-saving game state 1 (1 time). If the termination condition is met, time-saving game state 1 (1 time) is terminated, and the game transitions to the normal game state (non-time-saving game state). Also, if the result of the special symbol variation game determination is a time-saving symbol (special symbol E, special symbol F), the current game state is acquired (state acquisition is performed) at the start of the stop display of special symbol 2, indicated by code T2c in Figure 25(c).

[0517] Therefore, the time-saving symbols will not be activated, and the game state will not be changed from a time-saving game state (normal game state) to c time-saving game state. The subsequent game flow will be omitted from this explanation.

[0518] <Performance (Example 1)> Next, the presentation (Example 1) in the enclosed gaming machine 100 will be explained using Figures 28 and 29(a) to (j). Figures 28 and 29(a) to (j) are diagrams showing the presentation (Example 1) in chronological order.

[0519] Before explaining the examples of presentations, let's explain the various displays shown in the diagram. In the upper right corner of the display area of ​​the decorative pattern display device 208, the following can be displayed: the number of reserved symbols for the regular pattern NH, the number of reserved symbols for the special pattern 1 S1H, the number of reserved symbols for the special pattern 2 S2H, the fourth symbol for the regular pattern NS, the fourth symbol for the special pattern 1 S1S, and the fourth symbol for the special pattern 2 S2S.

[0520] The regular variable game can be held in reserve up to a predetermined number (4 in this example), and the regular variable game reserve display NH shows a number from 0 to 4 indicating the number of regular variable games being held. The special variable game 1 can be held in reserve up to a predetermined number (2 in this example), and the special variable game 1 reserve display S1H shows a number from 0 to 2 indicating the number of special variable games 1 being held. The special variable game 2 can be held in reserve up to a predetermined number (4 in this example), and the special variable game 2 reserve display S2H shows a number from 0 to 4 indicating the number of special variable games 2 being held. Needless to say, the maximum number of regular variable games and special variable games that can be held is not limited to this example.

[0521] In the regular diagram's fourth symbol display NS, while the regular diagram's symbols are stopped, the "×" symbol corresponding to a losing result or the "〇" symbol corresponding to a winning result is displayed, and while the regular diagram is in motion, the "-" symbol flashes. In the special diagram 1's fourth symbol display S1S, while the special diagram's symbols are stopped, the "×" symbol corresponding to a losing result or the "〇" symbol corresponding to a minor win is displayed, and while the special diagram's symbols are in motion, the "-" symbol flashes. In the special diagram 2's fourth symbol display S2S, while the special diagram's symbols are stopped, the "×" symbol corresponding to a losing result, the "△" symbol corresponding to a time-saving symbol, or the "〇" symbol corresponding to a minor win is displayed, and while the special diagram's symbols are in motion, the "-" symbol flashes.

[0522] Thus, the fourth symbol, which corresponds to the regular and special symbols, not only differs from the decorative symbols in its display position but also in its display manner (in this case, shape), allowing players to distinguish it at a glance. Furthermore, by changing the display manner, lighting manner, or flashing manner of the fourth symbol, it is possible to provide pre-announcements or announcements regarding the display of the symbol's variation.

[0523] Furthermore, the display area of ​​the decorative pattern display device 208 includes a game information display area 208e in the upper left corner, which can display the variation of decorative patterns and various pre-announcement displays, as well as four display areas in the center: the left pattern display area 208a, the middle pattern display area 208b, the right pattern display area 208c, and the performance display area 208d, as explained using Figure 2. The performance display area 208d includes a hold icon display area HIS, which can display hold icons, which are icons related to the variation of patterns that are currently being held, and a variation icon display area CIS, which can display variation icons, which are icons related to patterns that are currently being displayed.

[0524] The state shown in Figure 28(a) is the state during the display of fluctuations in the regular diagram.

[0525] In this state, since the regular diagram is being displayed in a variable state, the decorative pattern display area 208a~208c and the game information display area 208e display the variable state of the decorative pattern, the regular diagram 4th pattern display NS flashes the "-" symbol indicating that it is variable, and one variable icon is displayed in the variable icon display area CIS. The result of this regular diagram variable game is a loss.

[0526] Furthermore, in the same state, since there is one reserved slot in the regular spinning game, the number 1 is displayed in the regular spin reserved slots display area NH, and one reserved slot icon is displayed in the reserved slot icon display area HIS.

[0527] Figure 28(b) shows the normal stop indicator, and the state in which a ball has entered the normal start opening 228 while the normal stop indicator is displayed.

[0528] In this state, the win / loss determination for the regular symbol variation game is a loss, and the regular symbol is stopped, so the decorative symbol display area 208a~208c and the game information display area 208e show the stopped decorative symbol (decorative 4-decorative 1-decorative 7 indicating a loss), and the regular symbol 4th symbol display NS shows the "×" symbol indicating a loss.

[0529] Furthermore, when a predetermined ball detection sensor detects that a ball has passed through the regular ball start opening 228, a predetermined number of prize balls (1 in this example) are dispensed, and the regular ball variation game is started by the regular ball display device. The win / loss determination for this regular ball variation game is regular ball A.

[0530] In this state, the number of reserved spins in the regular spin game has increased to two, so the regular spin reserved spin count display NH displays the number 2, and the reserved spin icon display area HIS displays two reserved spin icons.

[0531] The state shown in Figure 28(c) that follows is the state in which the fluctuation display of the regular chart based on the first hold has started.

[0532] In this state, since the regular diagram is being displayed in a variable state, the decorative pattern display area 208a~208c and the game information display area 208e display the variable state of the decorative pattern, the regular diagram 4th pattern display NS flashes the "-" symbol indicating that it is variable, and one variable icon is displayed in the variable icon display area CIS. The result of this regular diagram variable game is a loss.

[0533] Furthermore, in the same state, since the number of reserved spins in the regular spin game has decreased to one, the number 1 is displayed in the regular spin reserved spin count display NH, and one reserved spin icon is displayed in the reserved spin icon display area HIS.

[0534] In this example, the win / loss determination for the regular diagram variation game based on the second hold is regular diagram A, and since the 3000-ball (10R+10R) jackpot, as explained using Figure 26, has been confirmed, the word "3000" is displayed on the hold icon, thus performing a pre-announcement effect that uses the hold icon to foreshadow the 3000-ball (10R+10R) jackpot.

[0535] In conventional gaming machines, when the regular symbol is used as the main symbol (the symbol for the variable animation displayed on the LCD), a win occurs when the regular symbol is hit, the regular electric mechanism (electric chute) opens, and a ball enters the special symbol start opening of this regular electric mechanism. In other words, at the time of hitting the regular symbol, only the opening of the regular electric mechanism is determined, so it was not possible to announce the type of jackpot or the destination after the jackpot during the regular symbol's variable animation (for example, animations during the animation, pre-announcement animations, etc.).

[0536] However, according to this example, there are two types of opening patterns for the standard electric mechanism (standard operation mode): non-electric 1 and 2 openings and non-electric 2 openings. In the case of non-electric 1 and 2 openings, the machine is configured to transition to a 3000-ball (10R + 10R) jackpot. In other words, since the opening pattern of the standard electric mechanism (standard operation mode) differs depending on the type of jackpot in the standard diagram (standard diagram A, standard diagram B), unlike conventional gaming machines, it is possible to provide information in the standard diagram's variation animation that suggests the type of jackpot and the transition destination after the jackpot.

[0537] The state shown in Figure 28(d) that follows is the state in which the stop indicator on the normal display is displayed based on the first hold.

[0538] In this state, the win / loss determination for the regular symbol variation game is a loss, and the regular symbol is stopped, so the decorative symbol display area 208a~208c and the game information display area 208e show the stopped decorative symbol (decorative 4-decorative 1-decorative 7 indicating a loss), and the regular symbol 4th symbol...

Claims

1. A means for displaying ordinary symbols that can perform variable display of ordinary symbols, A first special symbol display means capable of displaying variations of the first special symbol, A second special symbol display means capable of displaying a second special symbol in a variable manner, The first gaming area, The second gaming area, A first detection means capable of detecting game balls, A second detection means capable of detecting game balls, A third detection means capable of detecting game balls, A fourth detection means capable of detecting game balls, The first variable means, The second variable means, A third variable means, A fourth variable means, When the fourth variable means is activated, a specific area through which the game ball can pass is formed, A game control means capable of executing control to transition to one of multiple game states, The means of presentation, A gaming machine equipped with, The first detection means is a detection means capable of detecting game balls launched into the first game area, The second detection means is a detection means capable of detecting game balls launched into the second game area, The third detection means is a detection means capable of detecting game balls launched into the second game area, The fourth detection means is a detection means capable of detecting game balls launched into the second game area, The first variable means is a means provided in the second game area, The second variable means is a means provided in the second game area, The third variable means is a means provided in the second game area, The fourth variable means is a means provided in the second game area, The aforementioned multiple game states include at least a non-time-saving game state, a first time-saving game state, a second time-saving game state, and a third time-saving game state. The aforementioned non-time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the first game area. The aforementioned first time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the aforementioned second game area. The aforementioned second time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the aforementioned second game area. The aforementioned third time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the aforementioned second game area. The ordinary symbol display means is configured such that when the first detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the changing ordinary symbols. The first special symbol display means is configured such that when the second detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the first special symbol in a variable state. The first special symbol display means is configured such that when the third detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the first special symbol in a variable state. The second special symbol display means is configured such that when the fourth detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the second special symbol in a variable state. The first variable means is a means that operates in a first mode that makes it easier to get the ball in than when the first variable means is not operating, when the symbol indicating a first win stops to be displayed in the display of the normal symbols during the non-time-saving game state. The first variable means is a means that, when the second winning symbol is displayed in the display of the normal symbols during the non-time-saving game state, operates in a second mode that makes it easier to get the ball in than when the first variable means is not operating. The second variable means is a non-electric variable means, The second variable means is a means that operates in a third manner in which the second detection means can more easily detect the game ball than when the second variable means is not operating, due to the action of a game ball that enters the game ball when the first variable means is operating in the first manner. The second variable means is a means that operates in the third mode by the action of a game ball that enters the machine when the first variable means is operating in the second mode. The third variable means is a non-electric variable means, The third variable means is a means that operates in a fourth manner in which the third detection means can more easily detect the game ball than when the third variable means is not operating, due to the action of the game ball that enters the game when the first variable means is operating in the first manner. The aforementioned specific area is the area where a jackpot game is initiated when a game ball passes through it during a minor win game. The first special symbol display means, at least when no symbols other than the first special symbol are changing, displays a symbol indicating a minor win in a stopped state during the display of the first special symbol's change. The game control means executes a control to transition to the second time-saving game state after the completion of a big win game that was performed in response to a symbol indicating a certain minor win (hereinafter referred to as "first minor win") being displayed in the fluctuation display of the first special symbol in the non-time-saving game state. The game control means executes a control to transition to the first time-saving game state after the completion of a big win game that was performed in response to the first special symbol stopping and being displayed in the fluctuation display of the first special symbol in the second time-saving game state. The game control means executes a control to transition to the third time-saving game state when the first symbol is stopped in the second special symbol variation display in the first time-saving game state. The game control means executes a control to transition to the non-time-saving game state when the display of the second special symbol changes in the second time-saving game state. The aforementioned performance means may perform a suggestive performance between the time the right to display the variation of the ordinary symbol that will stop displaying the first winning symbol arises and the time the variation display of said right ends. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

2. A means for displaying ordinary symbols that can perform variable display of ordinary symbols, A first special symbol display means capable of displaying variations of the first special symbol, A second special symbol display means capable of displaying a second special symbol in a variable manner, The first gaming area, The second gaming area, A first detection means capable of detecting game balls, A second detection means capable of detecting game balls, A third detection means capable of detecting game balls, A fourth detection means capable of detecting game balls, The first variable means, The second variable means, A third variable means, A fourth variable means, When the fourth variable means is activated, a specific area through which the game ball can pass is formed, A game control means capable of executing control to transition to one of multiple game states, The means of presentation, A gaming machine equipped with, The first detection means is a detection means capable of detecting game balls launched into the first game area, The second detection means is a detection means capable of detecting game balls launched into the second game area, The third detection means is a detection means capable of detecting game balls launched into the second game area, The fourth detection means is a detection means capable of detecting game balls launched into the second game area, The first variable means is a means provided in the second game area, The second variable means is a means provided in the second game area, The third variable means is a means provided in the second game area, The fourth variable means is a means provided in the second game area, The aforementioned multiple game states include at least a non-time-saving game state, a first time-saving game state, a second time-saving game state, and a third time-saving game state. The aforementioned non-time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the first game area. The aforementioned first time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the aforementioned second game area. The aforementioned second time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the aforementioned second game area. The aforementioned third time-saving game state is a game state in which it is recommended to launch game balls into the aforementioned second game area. The ordinary symbol display means is configured such that when the first detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the changing ordinary symbols. The first special symbol display means is configured such that when the second detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the first special symbol in a variable state. The first special symbol display means is configured such that when the third detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the first special symbol in a variable state. The second special symbol display means is configured such that when the fourth detection means detects a game ball, it may start displaying the second special symbol in a variable state. The first variable means is a means that operates in a first mode that makes it easier to get the ball in than when the first variable means is not operating, when the symbol indicating a first win stops to be displayed in the display of the normal symbols during the non-time-saving game state. The first variable means is a means that, when the second winning symbol is displayed in the display of the normal symbols during the non-time-saving game state, operates in a second mode that makes it easier to get the ball in than when the first variable means is not operating. The second variable means is a non-electric variable means, The second variable means is a means that operates in a third manner in which the second detection means can more easily detect the game ball than when the second variable means is not operating, due to the action of a game ball that enters the game ball when the first variable means is operating in the first manner. The second variable means is a means that operates in the third mode by the action of a game ball that enters the machine when the first variable means is operating in the second mode. The third variable means is a non-electric variable means, The third variable means is a means that operates in a fourth manner in which the third detection means can more easily detect the game ball than when the third variable means is not operating, due to the action of the game ball that enters the game when the first variable means is operating in the first manner. The aforementioned specific area is the area where a jackpot game is initiated when a game ball passes through it during a minor win game. The first special symbol display means, in the display of the variation of the first special symbol when no symbols other than the first special symbol are changing, displays a symbol indicating a minor win or a major win in a stopped state. The game control means executes a control to transition to the second time-saving game state after the completion of a big win game that was performed in response to a symbol indicating a certain minor win (hereinafter referred to as "first minor win") being displayed in the fluctuation display of the first special symbol in the non-time-saving game state. The game control means executes a control to transition to the first time-saving game state after the completion of a big win game that was performed in response to the first special symbol stopping and being displayed in the fluctuation display of the first special symbol in the second time-saving game state. The game control means executes a control to transition to the third time-saving game state when the first symbol is stopped in the second special symbol variation display in the first time-saving game state. The game control means executes a control to transition to the non-time-saving game state when the display of the second special symbol changes in the second time-saving game state. The aforementioned performance means may perform a suggestive performance between the time the right to display the variation of the ordinary symbol that will stop displaying the first winning symbol arises and the time the variation display of said right ends. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

3. A gaming machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, The aforementioned suggestive effect is an effect that suggests a transition to the third time-saving game state. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

4. A gaming machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, The aforementioned suggestive effect is an effect that suggests the number of winning games that can be obtained. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

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