Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a gaming machine that can enhance the enjoyment of the game. [Solution] The result of the lottery includes a specific result that executes a special game advantageous to the player, the performance control means can execute a special performance at a predetermined trigger, the special performance enables the operation of the performance operation means, the performance control means can display a bonus image for a first hour if the performance operation means is operated during a first period which is part of the effective period for operating the performance operation means, and the performance control means can display a bonus image for a second hour which is shorter than the first hour even if the performance operation means is not operated during the first period.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] As a gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine is known, which includes a gaming area where gaming balls (gaming values) move, a launching device for launching gaming balls into the gaming area, and the like. The pachinko gaming machine has a starting port provided in the gaming area, and when the entry of a gaming ball into the starting port is detected, a special symbol lottery is conducted. If the result of the special symbol lottery is a big win, the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state, and a plurality of special games are executed in the special gaming state. In each special game, a large winning port provided in the gaming area operates in an open state, and gaming balls are paid out based on the entry of gaming balls into the large winning port.

[0003] In addition, some gaming machines of this type display an image imitating an effect button at a predetermined timing and execute an effect prompting the pressing of the effect button (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, in gaming machines, it is required to improve the interest of the game.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the interest of the game.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means (performance control means 300) that controls the execution of the performance, A display means (liquid crystal display 32) capable of displaying an image, It includes a means for controlling the effects (effect button 26) that can be operated by the player, The main control means includes a lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a lottery based on the entry of a game medium into a predetermined area (second start opening 49) provided in the game area, The results of the aforementioned lottery include specific outcomes that result in the execution of a special game that is advantageous to the player. The aforementioned performance control means is capable of executing a special performance at a predetermined trigger, and in the special performance, the operation of the performance operation means is enabled. The aforementioned performance control means can display a bonus image for a first hour when the performance operation means is operated during a first period, which is part of the effective period of operation of the performance operation means. Even if the performance operation means is not operated during the first period, the performance control means can display the bonus image for a second period that is shorter than the first period.

[0008] In a special performance, if the player operates the performance control device during the first period, a reward image (reward image) is displayed for one hour as a reward for the operation (successful press) during the first period. Even if the player fails to operate the performance control device during the first period (failure to press), the reward image is displayed for a shorter period, two hours. The performance is designed to encourage the player to operate the performance control device during the first period in order to view the special performance, i.e., the reward image, for a longer period, thereby enhancing the enjoyment of the game. Furthermore, by displaying the reward image for two hours even in the case of a failed press, the player is encouraged to succeed in pressing the button the next time a special performance is performed, and to view the reward image for a longer period (one hour). In other words, the player's interest is piqued and they are attracted to the game. This enhances the enjoyment of the game. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the enjoyment of games can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention, illustrating its external configuration. [Figure 2] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine and its dedicated unit. [Figure 3] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. [Figure 4] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the general configuration of a gaming machine. [Figure 6] The same diagram shows the jackpot lottery table. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing the pattern selection table. [Figure 8] This is a state transition diagram of the game state. [Figure 9]This is a diagram for explaining the variable display, stop display, and suspended performance of the performance symbols. [Figure 10] This is a diagram for explaining the special performance. [Figure 11] This is a diagram for explaining the execution timing of the hit suggestion performance. [Figure 12] This is a diagram for explaining the types of pre-hit suggestion performances. [Figure 13] This is a diagram showing the table used for the lottery executed at the start of the variation. [Figure 14] This is a diagram showing the table used for the lottery that determines the execution timing of the pre-hit suggestion performance in the normal mode. [Figure 15] This is a diagram showing the table used for the lottery that determines the executability of the pre-hit suggestion performance in the special mode. [Figure 16] This is a flowchart showing the process executed by the performance control means after the start of the variation. [Figure 17] This is a diagram for explaining the first special performance that can be executed in the gaming machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is a diagram for explaining the second special performance. [Figure 19] This is a diagram for explaining the third special performance. [Figure 20] This is a diagram for explaining the fourth special performance.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] (First Embodiment) Hereinafter, the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, basically, "front and back" means that when the player is on the front side of the gaming machine, the player side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "back", "up and down" means that the upper surface side of the gaming machine is "up" and the lower surface side is "down", "left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing on the gaming machine is "left", and the right hand side is "right".

[0012] Unlike conventional pachinko machines, the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment allows players to play without touching the game balls. The gaming machine 1 is a sealed circulation type in which a certain number of game balls (game mediums) circulate within the machine. Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 uses game value as electronic information, and the game value is consumed or dispensed through gameplay. In the gaming machine 1, the dispensing of game value means electronically dispensing (granting) the game value. It should be noted that the invention according to this embodiment is not limited to the gaming machine 1 but can also be applied to conventional pachinko machines, that is, pachinko machines in which players can physically touch the game balls and the game balls are dispensed into a tray based on their entry into predetermined prize slots.

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a gaming machine according to this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment comprises an outer frame 2 that forms the outer surface of the gaming machine, a game board 6 provided inside the gaming machine that forms a game area 4 on which game balls move, an inner frame 7 that holds the game board 6, a glass unit 8 that makes the game board 6 visible to the player but inaccessible to the player, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The front frame 10 is also attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) that blocks the opening of the outer frame 2 and an open position (open state) that opens the opening of the outer frame 2.

[0014] The portion of the front frame 10 surrounding the glass unit 8 is made of a light-transmitting translucent material, and multiple front frame lamps 12 that emit special effects lights to enhance the game are provided inside the translucent portion. In addition, speakers 14 (sound output means) that emit special effects sounds to enhance the game are provided on the left and right sides of the lower part of the front frame 10.

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

[0016] The front frame 10 is provided with a pressable effect button 26 (effect operation means), and when a player operates the effect button 26, the effects performed by the game machine may change. Furthermore, the front frame 10 is provided with a lever 15 (a means for controlling the effects). The lever 15 is configured to be able to be pulled towards the player and pushed away from the player. When the player pulls (or pushes) the lever 15, the effects performed by the game machine may change. The lever 15 is movable (tilted) at least between an initial position (OFF position) and an ON position that is closer to (or further away from) the initial position.

[0017] Below the front frame 10, to the right of the performance button 26, are a directional pad 27, a volume control button 28, and a brightness adjustment button 29. The directional pad 27 (directional buttons) includes at least an upper button (upper pressable part), a lower button (lower pressable part), a left button (left pressable part), and a right button (right pressable part) that are formed to be pressable. The volume control button 28 and the brightness adjustment button 29 each have a pressable part that is elongated in the front-to-back direction, and are formed so that the front side and rear side of the pressable part can be pressed.

[0018] The directional pad 27, volume control buttons 28, and brightness control buttons 29 are configured so that the pressable portion protrudes (stands out) from the surface surrounding the button. Because the pressable portion protrudes, it is easier for the player to touch and press.

[0019] As shown in Figure 2, a dedicated unit 400 (game value lending device, predetermined device) is provided on the side (left side) of the gaming machine 1 as a device for lending game value, and is connected to the gaming machine 1. The front of the dedicated unit 400 is provided with a banknote slot 406 into which banknotes can be inserted, a card insertion / discharge slot 402 into which cards (game value management media) can be inserted / discharged, a lending button (lending operation means) 403, a replay button (lending operation means) 404, and a card return button 405, etc. The card is used to manage the number of game value owned by the player. In other words, the number of game value owned by the player can be ascertained by the card. The card may also be capable of storing a prepaid balance. Furthermore, the management of the number of game values ​​using cards may be carried out by storing the number of game values ​​on the card itself, or by storing the number of game values ​​in a designated management device installed in the gaming hall, etc., and linking the number of game values ​​stored in the management device, etc. with the identification information stored on the card (such as the player's ID or the unique identification number for each card).

[0020] In the dedicated unit 400, an operation (press operation) on the lending button 403 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) that transfers game value to the game machine 1. When the lending button 403 is pressed, the stored value, etc., that is stored as a prepaid balance in the banknotes or cards inserted into the banknote slot 406 is consumed, and a predetermined number (for example, 125 units) of game value is credited to the game machine 1. In addition, in the dedicated unit 400, an operation (press operation) on the replay button 404 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) that transfers game value to the game machine 1. When the replay button 404 is pressed, the game value owned by the player, which is managed by the card (game value linked to the card), is consumed, and a predetermined number (for example, 125 units) of game value is credited to the game machine 1. In other words, in this embodiment, an operation on the loan button 403 or the replay button 404, which are loan operation means, is received as a loan operation (game value transfer operation), and based on the loan operation, a predetermined number of game values ​​are transferred (loaned) from the dedicated unit 400 to the game machine 1.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1, a game value display device (game ball count display device) 211 and a counting button (counting operation means) 212 are provided on the left side (dedicated unit 400 side) of the front frame 10. Based on the lending operation on the dedicated unit 400, the game machine 1 stores a value corresponding to a predetermined number of game values ​​in the game value storage area of ​​the frame control board 201, which will be described later. Hereinafter, the value shown in the game value storage area (stored value) will be called the "number of balls held" (number of balls held). The number of balls held can be said to be the number of game values ​​that can be used for playing. The number of balls held is displayed on the game value display device 211. The game value display device 211 has a 6-digit 7-segment display, and the number of balls held is displayed on the 7-segment display.

[0022] The gaming machine 1 is equipped with a frame control board 201 (see Figure 5), which controls the value (number of balls held) stored in the game value memory area. The frame control board 201 decreases the number of balls held based on the detection of a game ball being launched. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held based on the payout of prize balls. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held based on the detection of a foul ball. Furthermore, when game value is transferred from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1, the frame control board 201 increases the number of balls held by the amount of game value being transferred. Furthermore, when game value is transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400, the frame control board 201 decreases the number of balls held by the amount of game value being transferred. The frame control board 201 also controls the display of the number of balls held on the game value display device 211, and changes the display content of the game value display device 211 according to the increase or decrease in the number of balls held.

[0023] The counting button 212 is operated when sending (returning, transferring) all or part of the number of balls held (game value stored in the game value memory area) to the dedicated unit 400. The counting button 212 is equipped with a press part (operation part), and the press part is formed to be pressable. When a player finishes playing, they operate (press) the counting button 212 as a counting operation (return operation). When the counting button 212 is operated, a predetermined number of game values ​​are transferred from the game machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400. After the game values ​​have been transferred to the dedicated unit 400, when the card return button 405 of the dedicated unit 400 is operated (pressed), a card that allows the player to know the number of game values ​​they possess is ejected from the dedicated unit 400 (card insertion / discharge port 402).

[0024] Figure 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6. The game board 6 is provided with a circular outer rail 28, and the area enclosed by the outer rail 28 is the game area 4 on which the game balls move. In addition, an inner rail 30 is provided in an arc shape along the outer rail 28 at the left end of the game area 4, and the outer rail 28 and inner rail 30 guide the game balls launched from a launching device (not shown) located below the game board 6 into the game area 4.

[0025] In the center of the game board 6, there is a performance unit 36 ​​which includes a liquid crystal display 32 (performance display device, display means) that displays performance images and the like to enhance the game, and a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. Above the center of the liquid crystal display 32, there is a lighting device 38 (lighting means) which constitutes the performance unit 36 ​​and outputs performance lights and the like to enhance the game.

[0026] In this embodiment, the game balls are prevented from passing in front of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game balls launched from the launcher fall into either the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 or the game area 4b on the right side. In addition, numerous game pins (not shown) are driven into the game area 4 so as to intersect with the surface of the game board 6, causing the direction of movement of the game balls as they move through the game area 4 to change randomly.

[0027] Furthermore, an opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34, through which game balls falling from the game area 4a to the left of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass. Game balls that pass through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 located below the liquid crystal display 32. The upper surface of this stage 44 is a smooth curved surface, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8, allowing game balls to fall downwards from the stage 44. Game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth on the stage 44 before falling downwards from near the center of the stage 44.

[0028] Below the center of the stage 44, there is a first start opening 46 (first area) into which game balls (including game balls that have fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44) can enter. Inside the first start opening 46, there is a first start opening switch 100 (see Figure 5) that detects game balls that have entered the first start opening 46. When the first start opening switch 100 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the first start opening 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the detection signal input from the first start opening switch 100, the main control board 200 executes a first special symbol lottery (first lottery) as a special symbol lottery. The main control board 200 also executes a payout of prize balls (for example, 1 ball) based on the detection signal input from the first start opening switch 100. Game balls that have entered the first start opening 46 are collected inside the game machine.

[0029] To the left of the first start opening 46 in the game area 4, there are multiple (3) general prize openings 47 (upper left general prize opening 47a, left-center general prize opening 47b, and lower left general prize opening 47c). The game board 6 is also equipped with a general prize opening switch 101 (see Figure 5) that detects game balls that enter the upper left general prize opening 47a, left-center general prize opening 47b, or lower left general prize opening 47c. When the general prize opening switch 101 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the upper left general prize opening 47a, left-center general prize opening 47b, or lower left general prize opening 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then dispenses prize balls (for example, 3 balls) based on the detection signal input from the general prize opening switch 101. Furthermore, one general prize slot switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general prize slot 47a, the left middle general prize slot 47b, and the lower left general prize slot 47c, or one may be provided for multiple (for example, three) general prize slots 47. In addition, general prize slots 47 and general prize slot switches corresponding to these general prize slots may also be provided.

[0030] A passage gate 48 is provided in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, through which game balls pass without being collected inside the game machine. A gate switch 102 (see Figure 5) is also installed inside the passage gate 48 to detect when a game ball has passed through. When the gate switch 102 detects a game ball (passing through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then performs a regular symbol lottery to determine whether a regular win has occurred, based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102.

[0031] In the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, a second start port 49 (second area, predetermined area) is provided below the passage gate 48. A second start port switch 103 (see Figure 5) is also installed inside the second start port 49 to detect game balls that have entered the second start port 49. When the second start port switch 103 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the second start port 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then executes a second special symbol lottery (second lottery) as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. The main control board 200 also executes the payout of prize balls (for example, 1 ball) based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. Game balls that have entered the second start port 49 are collected inside the game machine.

[0032] The second starting opening 49 is provided with a standard mechanism 54 (first movable part) that can operate between a reduced state (closed state) (a state in which it is difficult for game balls to enter the second starting opening 49) and an enlarged state (open state) (a state in which it is easy for game balls to enter the second starting opening 49). The standard mechanism 54 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid and is controlled to enter the enlarged state under predetermined conditions when a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery.

[0033] Furthermore, a large prize slot 50 (third area) is provided in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32. A count switch 104 (see Figure 5) for detecting game balls that have entered the large prize slot 50 is also installed inside the large prize slot 50. When the count switch 104 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the large prize slot 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then dispenses prize balls (for example, 15 balls) based on the detection signal input from the count switch 104. The main control board 200 also counts the number of game balls that have entered the large prize slot 50 based on the detection signal input from the count switch 104. The game balls that have entered the large prize slot 50 are then collected inside the game machine.

[0034] The large prize opening 50 is equipped with a special mechanism 56 (second movable part, specific movable part) that can operate between a closed state (impossible entry state) in which game balls cannot enter the large prize opening 50 and an open state (impossible entry state) in which game balls can enter. The special mechanism 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid and is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in the special game state which is started when a big win is achieved in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery). The special mechanism 56 is also controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in the minor win game state which is started when a minor win is achieved in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery).

[0035] The large prize opening 50 is provided with a specific area (not shown), a discharge area (not shown), and a distribution means (not shown) that distributes game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to either the specific area or the discharge area. A specific area switch 107 (see Figure 5) is provided in the specific area. The specific area switch 107 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 based on the detection of game balls passing through the specific area (passage of the specific area by game balls). The distribution means can be switched between a specific area passage state, in which game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area, and a non-specific area passage state, in which game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the discharge area. That is, when the distribution means is switched to the specific area passage state, game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area. As a result, it becomes impossible for game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to pass through the discharge area. On the other hand, when the sorting means is displaced to a non-specific area passage state, game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are sorted to the discharge area. This makes it impossible for game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to pass through the specific area. The sorting means is displaced by the specific area solenoid. Game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are first detected by the count switch 104, and then sorted by the sorting means to either the specific area or the discharge area, and after passing through that area, are discharged to the discharge path. At this time, game balls sorted to the specific area are detected by the specific area switch 107.

[0036] At the bottom of the game area 4, there is an outlet 62 for collecting game balls that fall out of the game area 4 without entering any of the prize winning holes 46, 47, 49, or 50 into the game machine. Inside the game machine, there is an outlet passage (not shown) through which the game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass. In this game machine, all game balls launched into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) pass through the outlet passage. That is, game balls launched into the game area 4 are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the outlet passage by entering any of the prize winning holes 46, 47, 49, or 50 or by passing through the outlet 62. Specifically, game balls that enter each prize winning hole 46, 47, 49, or 50 are detected by switches 100, 101, 103, or 104 located inside the prize winning hole, and then guided into the outlet passage. Furthermore, the game balls collected from the outlet 62 are guided to the discharge path. An out switch 106 (see Figure 5) is also installed in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects game balls passing through the discharge path (discharge of game balls from the game area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then counts the number of game balls discharged from the game area 4 based on the detection signal input from the out switch 106.

[0037] The game ball launching device is configured such that the launch output of the game balls changes by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in Figure 1. When the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game balls are launched so that they fall into the game area 4a (first game area 4a, left-handed area) on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game balls are launched so that they fall into the game area 4b (second game area 4b, right-handed area) on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32.

[0038] The player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 according to the game situation to launch the game ball so that it falls through the left game area 4a, or passes through the opening 40, passage 42, and stage 44 and enters the first starting opening 46 (left-handed shot), or launches the game ball so that it falls through the right game area 4b, passes through the passage gate 48, or enters the second starting opening 49, or enters the large prize opening 50 (right-handed shot). In this embodiment, left-handed shot may be called the first game method, and right-handed shot may be called the second game method.

[0039] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when a game ball falls through the left-side game area 4a, the game ball does not pass through the passage gate 48, and therefore does not enter (win) the second starting opening 49 or the large prize opening 50. Also, when a game ball falls through the right-side game area 4b, the game ball does not enter the first starting opening 46 or the general prize opening 47.

[0040] As shown in Figure 3, a status indicator unit 70 is provided in the lower right part of the game board 6, outside the game area 4, which indicates the various states of the game machine by turning on and off lamps or the like.

[0041] Figure 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. The status display unit 70 is equipped with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal hold display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special hold display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 81, a second special hold display unit 82, and a game status display unit 84.

[0042] The regular symbol display unit 72 is composed of two lamps. When a regular symbol lottery is held, the two lamps flash to display a changing regular symbol, and the two lamps light up or turn off to display a stopped regular symbol, thereby displaying the result of the regular symbol lottery.

[0043] The normal hold display unit 74 consists of two lamps and displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of normal hold numbers that are held, when a normal symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state when a game ball passes through the passage gate 48, or when a normal symbol lottery cannot be performed even if a random value for normal symbol lottery is acquired. The normal hold number is displayed by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps.

[0044] The first special symbol display unit 76 is composed of a 7-segment display. When a game ball enters the first start opening 46 and a lottery for the first special symbol is held, the 7-segment display flashes to display the first special symbol in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display lights up in one of several different modes to display the first special symbol in a stationary state, thereby displaying the result of the lottery for the first special symbol.

[0045] The first special reserve display unit 78 consists of two lamps and displays the number of first special reserves corresponding to the number of first special random values ​​that are being held in reserve when, for example, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state when a game ball enters the first start opening 46, and even if a random value for special symbol lottery (lottery information) is acquired, a special symbol lottery cannot be performed. The first special reserve display unit 78 displays 0 to 4 first special reserves by combining the lighting, extinguishing, or flashing of the two lamps.

[0046] The second special symbol display unit 81 is composed of a 7-segment display. When a game ball enters the second start opening 49 and a second special symbol lottery is held, the 7-segment display flashes to display the second special symbol in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display lights up in one of several different modes to display the second special symbol in a stationary state, thereby displaying the result of the second special symbol lottery.

[0047] The second special reserve display unit 82 consists of two lamps and displays the number of second special reserves corresponding to the number of second special reserves that are being held in reserve when, for example, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state when a game ball enters the second start opening 49, and even if a random value for special symbol lottery is acquired, a special symbol lottery cannot be performed. The second special reserve display unit 82 displays 0 to 4 second special reserves by combining the lighting, extinguishing, or flashing of the two lamps.

[0048] The game state display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and the type of game state currently set is displayed by the combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the six lamps. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, multiple game states can be set, including a normal state, a time-saving state, and a special game state. In the time-saving state, compared to the normal state, the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is shortened, and the trigger for executing the special symbol lottery occurs more frequently.

[0049] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board that includes a main control board 200 (main control means), a sub-control board 202 (sub-control means), and a frame control board 201. The functions of the main control board 200, sub-control board 202, and frame control board 201 are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, and software consisting of a given program pre-stored in ROM, etc.

[0050] The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the gate switch 102, the first start gate switch 100, the second start gate switch 103, the general prize gate switch 101, the count switch 104, the out switch 106, and the specific area switch 107, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the regular prize 54 and the special prize 56 based on the calculation results.

[0051] The sub-control board 202 receives signals from the main control board 200 and input signals from the performance button switch 150, performs various calculations to execute performances in accordance with the progress of the game, and controls the operation of performance devices such as the front frame lamp 12, speaker 14, liquid crystal display 32, and lighting device 38 based on the calculation results.

[0052] The frame control board 201 receives signals from the main control board 200 and input signals from the counting buttons 212, and performs control related to the number of balls held (game balls), as well as control of the game value display device 211, etc. The frame control board 201 is capable of bidirectional communication with the main control board 200.

[0053] The main control board 200 is composed of a random number generation means 210, a normal symbol lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal bonus item control means 224, a special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means), a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250 (state control means), a special game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290, among others.

[0054] The random number generation means 210 is a means for generating random numbers for the lottery, and is implemented by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers or a program that generates software random numbers. Software random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to cycle within a predetermined count range). In this embodiment, "random numbers" include not only values ​​that are generated randomly in a mathematical sense, but also values ​​that, even if their generation is regular, can function as effectively random numbers because the timing of their acquisition is irregular.

[0055] The normal symbol lottery means 220, based on the input of a detection signal from the gate switch 102 which detects each game ball passing through the passage gate 48, obtains a random value for normal symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 and stores it in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290. The normal symbol lottery is then performed to determine whether a normal win occurs based on the random value for normal symbol lottery read from the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0056] In detail, the ordinary random number storage means 2912 is provided with four ordinary hold storage areas, ordinary hold storage area 1 to ordinary hold storage area 4, as storage areas for storing the acquired ordinary symbol lottery random values, and one ordinary hold storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the ordinary symbol lottery random values ​​read from ordinary hold storage area 1 and used for the ordinary symbol lottery until the display of the changing and stopping of the ordinary symbols is finished. Then, when the normal symbol lottery means 220 obtains a random value for normal symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210, if the random value for normal symbol lottery is not stored in any of the normal hold memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the obtained random value for normal symbol lottery in normal hold memory area 1. Then, when the random value for normal symbol lottery is stored in normal hold memory area 1, if the normal symbol is not in a fluctuating display or stopped display, that is, if the random value for normal symbol lottery is not stored in the normal hold memory area and control to open the normal mechanism 54 is not being executed, it immediately reads the random value for normal symbol lottery from normal hold memory area 1 and performs a normal symbol lottery, and stores the random value for normal symbol lottery obtained from the normal symbol lottery in the normal hold memory area. On the other hand, if the regular symbols are in a variable display state or stopped display state, that is, if a random value for the regular symbol lottery is stored in the regular symbol hold memory area, or if control is being executed to open the regular mechanism 54, the random value for the regular symbol lottery is held in the regular symbol hold memory area 1.

[0057] Then, if a random value for normal symbol lottery is already held in the normal hold memory area 1, and a detection signal is input from the gate switch 102 to acquire a random value for normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol lottery means 220, on the condition that the number of random values ​​for normal symbol lottery held in normal hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, on the condition that the number of normal hold values ​​is less than 4, stores the random value for normal symbol lottery in the normal hold memory area with the smallest ordinal number among normal hold memory areas 1 to 4 that does not currently hold a random value for normal symbol lottery.

[0058] Then, when the display of the variation and stop of the normal symbols is finished, the normal symbol lottery means 220 erases the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal reserve memory area. If there are random values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in normal reserve memory area 1, and provided that control to open the normal mechanism 54 is not currently being executed, it reads the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery from normal reserve memory area 1 to perform a normal symbol lottery, and stores the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery that were used in the normal symbol lottery in the normal reserve memory area. If there are any remaining random values ​​for normal symbol lottery in normal reserve memory area 2 or later, the remaining random values ​​for normal symbol lottery are moved from the original normal reserve memory area to a normal reserve memory area with an ordinal number one smaller. For example, if there are any remaining random values ​​for normal symbol lottery in normal reserve memory area 2 to normal reserve memory area 3, they are moved to normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 2.

[0059] Thus, in the ordinary random number storage means 2912, random numbers for ordinary symbol lottery in which an ordinary symbol lottery has been conducted are stored in the ordinary reserve storage area up to a maximum of 1, and random numbers for ordinary symbol lottery in which an ordinary symbol lottery has not been conducted are stored in ordinary reserve storage areas 1 to 4 up to a maximum of 4.

[0060] The regular symbol lottery means 220 performs a regular win determination process as part of the regular symbol lottery.

[0061] The normal win determination process is the process of determining whether a "normal win" has occurred. In the normal win determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects, according to the game state, which of the multiple normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to for random number determination processing. Here, each normal symbol lottery table has either a "normal win" or a "miss" associated with each of the 100 normal symbol lottery random values ​​from 0 to 99. The normal symbol lottery means 220 then refers to the selected normal symbol lottery table and determines whether a normal win has been achieved by determining whether one of the normal symbol lottery random values ​​read from the normal random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal win.

[0062] The regular symbol lottery table selected when the game state is in a time-saving state has a higher probability of winning a "regular win" compared to the regular symbol lottery table selected when the game state is not in a time-saving state. In other words, the regular symbol lottery conducted when the game state is in a time-saving state has a higher probability of winning a "regular win" compared to the regular symbol lottery conducted when the game state is not in a time-saving state.

[0063] The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing.

[0064] In the normal symbol display control process, the normal display control means 222 causes the normal symbols to change and display by flashing the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed. In the normal win determination process, depending on whether or not a "normal win" has been won, the normal symbol display unit 72 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 to stop the normal symbols, thereby displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol display unit 72.

[0065] In this embodiment, the time it takes for the regular symbols to change is determined according to the game state at the time the regular symbols are drawn. Specifically, if the game state is a time-saving state, the time it takes for the regular symbols to change is set to be shorter than if the game state is not a time-saving state. For example, if the game state is not a time-saving state at the time the regular symbols are drawn, the time it takes for the regular symbols to change is set to the first hour (e.g., 20 seconds), and if the game state is a time-saving state at the time the regular symbols are drawn, the time it takes for the regular symbols to change is set to the second hour (e.g., 1 second), which is shorter than the first hour. Therefore, the opportunity to draw regular symbols occurs more frequently when the game state is a time-saving state.

[0066] In the normal hold display control process, the normal display control means 222 displays 0 to 4 normal hold numbers by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74, according to the number of random values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0067] The ordinary prize control means 224 is a means for controlling the ordinary prize 54 based on the result of the ordinary symbol lottery. When the game state is not the time-saving state, the ordinary prize control means 224 controls the ordinary prize 54 to expand until a time A (for example, 0.1 seconds) has elapsed, and then return to the reduced state, triggered by the ordinary symbol stopping and displaying in a manner indicating a "regular win". Furthermore, when the game state is the time-saving state, the ordinary prize control means 224 controls the ordinary prize 54 to expand until a time B (for example, 6 seconds) that is longer than time A has elapsed, and then return to the reduced state, triggered by the ordinary symbol stopping and displaying in a manner indicating a "regular win".

[0068] Therefore, in the case of a regular symbol draw, if the game state is not a time-saving state, the regular mechanism 54 operates in such a way that the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 does not increase significantly. However, if the game state is a time-saving state, the regular mechanism 54 operates in such a way that the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 increases. In this embodiment, the regular mechanism 54 is controlled to operate in a time-saving state so that it is easier for the game ball to enter the second start opening 49 than in the normal state. Thus, the time-saving state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

[0069] The special symbol lottery means 230 (special lottery means) obtains a random value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on a detection signal input from the first start-up switch 100, which detects each game ball entering the first start-up 46, and stores it as the first special random value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. The special symbol lottery means 230 also obtains a random value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on a detection signal input from the second start-up switch 103, which detects each game ball entering the second start-up 49, and stores it as the second special random value in the special random number storage means 2914. The special symbol lottery means 230 uses the first or second special random value read from the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery (special lottery) to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won.

[0070] The special random number storage means 2914 is provided with four first special reserve storage areas, from the first special reserve storage area 1 to the first special reserve storage area 4, as storage areas for storing the acquired first special random number value. One first special reserve storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the first special random number value read from the first special reserve storage area 1 and used for the special symbol lottery, until the variation display and stop display of the first special symbol are completed.

[0071] When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the first start switch 100 and acquires a random value for special symbol lottery, if the first special random value is not stored in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the acquired random value for special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area 1 as the first special random value. Then, when the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, if the first special symbol is not being displayed in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the first special random value is not stored in the first special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a minor win game is not being executed, it immediately reads the first special random value from the first special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area. On the other hand, if the first special symbol is in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area, or if the game state is a special game state, or if a minor win game is being played, the first special random value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1.

[0072] Then, if a detection signal is input from the first start switch 100 while a first special random value is being held in the first special hold memory area 1, and a random value for special symbol lottery is obtained, the special symbol lottery means 230 stores the first special random value in the first special hold memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the first special hold memory areas 1 to 4, which is a hold memory area where no first special random value is being held and which has the smallest ordinal number, provided that the number of first special random values ​​being held in the first special hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, provided that the number of first special holds is less than 4.

[0073] The special random number storage means 2914 is provided with four second special reserve storage areas, second special reserve storage area 1 to second special reserve storage area 4, as storage areas for storing the acquired second special random number values. One second special reserve storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the second special random number values ​​read from second special reserve storage area 1 and used for the special symbol lottery, until the variation display and stop display of the second special symbol are completed.

[0074] When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the second start switch 103 and acquires a random value for special symbol lottery, if the second special random value is not stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the acquired random value for special symbol lottery in the second special reserve memory area 1 as the second special random value. Then, when the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1, if the second special symbol is not being displayed in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the second special random value is not stored in the second special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a minor win game is not being executed, it immediately reads the second special random value from the second special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and stores the second special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the second special reserve memory area. On the other hand, if the second special symbol is in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area, or if the game state is a special game state, or if a minor win game is being played, the second special random value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1.

[0075] Then, if a detection signal is input from the second start switch 103 while a second special random value is being held in the second special hold memory area 1, and a random value for special symbol lottery is obtained, the special symbol lottery means 230, on the condition that the number of second special random values ​​being held in the second special hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, on the condition that the number of second special holds is less than 4, stores the second special random value in the second special hold memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the second special hold memory areas 1 to 4 where no second special random values ​​are being held.

[0076] When the variation and stop display of the first special symbol is finished, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the first special random value stored in the first special reserve memory area. If the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, and provided that the game state is not a special game state and a minor win game is not in progress, the special symbol lottery means 230 reads the first special random value from the first special reserve memory area 1, performs a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area. Furthermore, when the variation and stop display of the second special symbol is finished, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the second special random value stored in the second special reserve memory area. Then, if a second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1, and provided that the game state is not a special game state and a minor win game is not in progress, the second special random value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and the second special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery is stored in the second special reserve memory area. In this embodiment, since the first special random value and the second special random value are processed in parallel, the display of the second special symbol may start while the first special symbol is being displayed, or the display of the first special symbol may start while the second special symbol is being displayed.

[0077] Furthermore, if the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, the first special random value may be read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery may be performed, provided that the second special random value is not stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4. If the second special random value is stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, even if the first special random value is stored in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, the second special random value may be read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery may be performed. In other words, the second special random value may be processed with priority over the first special random value. In addition, regardless of whether it is the first or second special random value, the first or second special random value may be read in the order in which it was stored in the special random number storage means 2914 and a special symbol lottery may be performed. In other words, the first special random value or the second special random value may be processed in the order in which the game balls enter the first starting opening 46 or the second starting opening 49.

[0078] When the first special random value is read from the first special reserved memory area 1, if the first special random value remains in the first special reserved memory area 2 or later, or when the second special random value is read from the second special reserved memory area 1, if the second special random value remains in the second special reserved memory area 2 or later, the remaining first or second special random value is moved from its original special reserved memory area to a special reserved memory area with an ordinal number one less. For example, when the first special random value is read from the first special reserved memory area 1, if there are still first special random values ​​remaining in each of the first special reserved memory areas 2 to 4, the first special random values ​​stored in each of the first special reserved memory areas 2 to 4 are moved to each of the first special reserved memory areas 1 to 3. Similarly, when the second special random value is read from the second special reserved memory area 1, if there are still second special random values ​​remaining in each of the second special reserved memory areas 2 to 3, the second special random values ​​stored in each of the second special reserved memory areas 2 to 3 are moved to each of the second special reserved memory areas 1 to 2.

[0079] In the special random number storage means 2914, up to four first special random numbers for which no special symbol draw has been performed are stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 to the first special reserve storage area 4. In addition, up to four second special random numbers for which no special symbol draw has been performed are stored in the second special reserve storage area 1 to the second special reserve storage area 4.

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

[0081] The jackpot determination process involves reading one jackpot determination random number from the first special random number or second special random number stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 or second special reserve storage area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914, and determining whether a jackpot has been won or not. Here, one jackpot determination random number is obtained from 65,536 jackpot determination random numbers ranging from 0 to 65,535 based on a detection signal input from the first start switch 100 or the second start switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number or second special random number.

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

[0083] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores the jackpot lottery table A shown in Figure 6(a) and the jackpot lottery table B shown in Figure 6(b). In each jackpot lottery table, a jackpot is associated with each of the 65,536 random jackpot determination values ​​ranging from 0 to 65,535.

[0084] The jackpot lottery table A is selected when performing a jackpot determination process for the first special random value, and a correspondence relationship is set between each determination result and the jackpot determination random value such that a "jackpot" is won with a predetermined probability (X / 65536) and a "miss" is won with a predetermined probability ((65536-X) / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the jackpot lottery table A and determines whether the jackpot determination random value read from the first special reserve memory area 1 is associated with either a "jackpot" or a "miss," thereby determining whether a "jackpot" or a "miss" has been won. In this embodiment, the first special symbol lottery is designed so that either a "jackpot" or a "miss" is always won. In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "jackpot" or a "miss" in the first special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state. In the first special symbol lottery, there are two possibilities: you may win a prize (big win), or you may not win a prize (lose).

[0085] The jackpot lottery table B is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the second special random value, and the correspondence between each judgment result and the jackpot determination random value is set so that a "jackpot" is won with a predetermined probability (X / 65536), a "minor win" is won with a predetermined probability (Y / 65536), and a "miss" is won with a predetermined probability ((65536-(X+Y) / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the jackpot lottery table B and reads the jackpot from the second special reserve memory area 1. The randomly determined value is associated with either a "jackpot," a "minor win," or a "loss," and this determines whether a "jackpot," "minor win," or "loss" has been achieved. In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "jackpot," "minor win," or "loss" in the second special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state. In the second special symbol lottery, there are cases where a win (jackpot or minor win) is achieved, and cases where a win is not achieved (loss).

[0086] The symbol determination process is performed when a "jackpot" or "minor win" is achieved during the jackpot determination process. The symbol determination process reads one symbol determination random number from the first special random number or second special random number stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 or second special reserve storage area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914. If a "jackpot" is achieved, the process determines which of the multiple jackpot symbols will be the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot), and if a "minor win" is achieved, the process determines which of the multiple minor win symbols will be the minor win symbol (type of minor win). Here, one symbol determination random number is obtained from 200 symbol determination random numbers from 0 to 199 based on detection signals input from the first start switch 100 and the second start switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number or second special random number.

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

[0088] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores the pattern lottery table A shown in Figure 7(a), the pattern lottery table B shown in Figure 7(b), and the pattern lottery table C shown in Figure 7(c). In each pattern lottery table, a predetermined pattern is associated with each of the random numbers used to determine the pattern.

[0089] The symbol lottery table A shown in Figure 7(a) is selected when a "jackpot" is won and the read symbol determination random number is stored as the first special random number. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number is set so that "jackpot 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 0.005 / 100 and "jackpot 2" (7R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 99.995 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table A and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols is associated with the read symbol determination random number, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0090] The symbol lottery table B shown in Figure 7(b) is selected when a "jackpot" is won and one of the read symbol determination random values ​​is stored as the second special random value. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random value is set so that "jackpot 3" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 12.8 / 100 and "jackpot 4" (7R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 87.2 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table B and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols is associated with one of the read symbol determination random values, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0091] The symbol lottery table C shown in Figure 7(c) is selected when a "minor win" is achieved and the read symbol determination random number is stored as the second special random number. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number is set so that "minor win 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 50 / 100 and "minor win 2" (7R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 50 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table C and determines which of the multiple types of minor win symbols is associated with the read symbol determination random number, thereby determining which of the multiple types of minor win symbols has been won.

[0092] The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the results of the special symbol lottery, and performs the execution process of the special game. Furthermore, the special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a minor win game based on the winning of a "minor win" in the special symbol lottery, and performs the execution process of the minor win game. Note that the term "special game" may include minor win games.

[0093] The special game state is initiated when a "jackpot" is won in the special symbol lottery (either the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery), and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (executions) of special game (jackpot game) are performed according to the type (category) of the jackpot symbol. If the special game state is initiated when "jackpot 1" or "jackpot 3" is won in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends when 10 rounds of special game (rounds 1 to 10) have been performed. In the special symbol lottery, if "Big Win 2" or "Big Win 4" is won, the special game state will start, and the special game state will end after 7 rounds of special gameplay from round 1 to round 7 have been completed. As will be explained in more detail later, if "Big Win" is won in the special symbol lottery, a predetermined number of time-saving rounds corresponding to the big win symbol will be set and a time-saving round will start when the special game state ends.

[0094] The minor win game state is initiated based on winning a "minor win" in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery), and ends when the minor win game is played a predetermined number of times (1 time in this embodiment). During the minor win game, the special mechanism 56 opens to allow game balls to enter the large prize opening 50, and the distribution means is changed from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state. Specifically, during the minor win game, the distribution means is changed from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state so that game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 during the execution of the minor win game can easily (make possible) pass through the specific area. As a result, if either "minor win 1" or "minor win 2" is won in the second special symbol lottery, it becomes easy (possible) for game balls to pass through the specific area during the minor win game state. Furthermore, if it is detected that a game ball has passed through a specific area during a minor win game (for example, if a game ball that has entered the big prize slot 50 during the execution of a minor win game has passed through a specific area), a special game state will be started based on the end of the minor win game state.

[0095] If you win "Minor Win 1" in the second special symbol lottery and the passing of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the minor win game state, the number of special games (round games) will be set to 9. This will result in 10 rounds being played, with the minor win game being the first round game. The special game state will then end after 10 rounds of special games have been played. Also, if you win "Minor Win 2" in the second special symbol lottery and the passing of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the minor win game state, the number of special games (round games) will be set to 6. This will result in 7 rounds being played, with the minor win game being the first round game. The special game state will then end after 7 rounds of special games have been played. As will be explained in more detail later, when the special game state ends, a predetermined number of time-saving rounds corresponding to the minor win symbol will be set, and the time-saving round state will begin. Furthermore, if the passage of a game ball through a specific area is not detected during a minor win game (i.e., if the passage of a game ball that entered the large prize slot 50 during the execution of a minor win game is not detected), the special game state will not start, and the normal state will begin.

[0096] In this embodiment, "special game" may refer to both big win games and small win games as a whole. Furthermore, "special game" is not limited to referring to a single round game, but may also refer to the entire round game (for example, a 10-round special game: the special game state).

[0097] Based on the start of a special game (including a minor win game) in each round (based on the fulfillment of the opening condition), the special feature 56 enters an open state. Once the special feature 56 is in an open state, it enters a closed state based on the fulfillment of one of several closing conditions. One of the closing conditions is that the opening timer in the main memory 290 counts up a predetermined time (1.8 seconds to 29 seconds) (reaches the predetermined time). Another closing condition is that when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, the value of the big win counter (not shown) in the main memory 290, which adds a value equivalent to one game ball (for example, 1), reaches a predetermined value (for example, 10). When the closing condition is fulfilled (when the special game termination condition is fulfilled), the drive control of the special feature drive device is performed so that the special feature 56 enters a closed state. Furthermore, while the game is designed to end when the opening time reaches 1.8 seconds during a minor win, it doesn't actually open continuously for 1.8 seconds. Instead, it repeatedly performs short openings of 0.15 seconds and short closings of 0.8 seconds, totaling 12 short openings to measure the total opening time of 1.8 seconds.

[0098] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the maximum number of game balls that can enter the large prize pocket 50 in one round is 10, and the number of prize balls awarded for each ball entered is 15. Therefore, a player can win 150 prize balls in one round. Consequently, if a "Big Win 1", "Big Win 3", or "Small Win 1" is won, the player can win 1500 prize balls.

[0099] The special display control means 240 performs a first special symbol display control process, a second special symbol display control process, a first special hold display control process, and a second special hold display control process based on the results of the special symbol lottery.

[0100] The first special symbol display control process is performed when a first special random value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is held. The special display control means 240 displays the first special symbol in a variable state by blinking the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 until the variable time has elapsed, and then displays the first special symbol in a fixed state by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner. The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process for the special symbol lottery, and the special display control means 240 displays the first special symbol in a variation by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 until a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then displays the first special symbol in a stopped state by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

[0101] In this embodiment, the display patterns of the 7-segment display are predetermined to correspond to the jackpot symbols and the minor jackpot symbols, respectively. The special display control means 240, in the jackpot determination process, lights up the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a manner that corresponds to whether or not a "jackpot" has been won, and if a "jackpot" has been won in the jackpot determination process, in a manner that corresponds to the jackpot symbol determined in the symbol determination process, thereby stopping the display of the first special symbol and displaying the result of the special symbol lottery on the first special symbol display unit 76.

[0102] The second special symbol display control process is performed when a second special random value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is conducted. The special display control means 240 displays the second special symbol in a variable state by blinking the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 until the variable time has elapsed, and then displays the second special symbol in a fixed state by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a predetermined manner. The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process for the special symbol lottery, and the special display control means 240 displays the second special symbol in a variation by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 until a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then displays the second special symbol in a stopped state by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a predetermined manner.

[0103] The special display control means 240, in the jackpot determination process, lights up the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a manner that corresponds to whether or not a "jackpot" or "minor win" has been won, and if a "jackpot" has been won in the jackpot determination process, in a manner that corresponds to the jackpot symbol determined in the symbol determination process, and if a "minor win" has been won in the jackpot determination process, in a manner that corresponds to the minor win symbol determined in the symbol determination process, thereby stopping the display of the second special symbol and displaying the result of the special symbol lottery on the second special symbol display unit 81.

[0104] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 first special hold numbers by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78, according to the number of first special random values ​​stored in the special random number storage means 2914.

[0105] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 second special hold numbers by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82, according to the number of second special random values ​​stored in the special random number storage means 2914.

[0106] In this embodiment, if a "big win" is achieved in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery), a special game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the game ball into the big prize slot 50. Also, if a "minor win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, a minor win game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the game ball into the big prize slot 50. When it is detected that a game ball that has entered the big prize slot 50 has passed through a specific area in the minor win game state, a special game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the game ball into the big prize slot 50. By getting game balls into the big prize slot 50, the player can win many prize balls. In this embodiment, the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the second special symbol lottery is higher than the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the first special symbol lottery. Specifically, in the first special symbol lottery, there is no "minor win" option in the lottery results, and the game transitions to the special game state only if a "big win" is achieved. On the other hand, in the second special symbol lottery, both "big win" and "minor win" options are available in the lottery results. The game transitions to the special game state if a "big win" is achieved, and also if a "minor win" is achieved and the passage of a specific area by the game ball is detected during the minor win game state.

[0107] In this embodiment, obtaining the opportunity to draw the second special symbol results in a higher probability of transitioning to a special game state than obtaining the opportunity to draw the first special symbol. As mentioned above, in order to obtain the opportunity to draw the second special symbol, it is necessary to win a "regular win" in the regular symbol draw and to insert the game ball into the second start opening 49 when the regular mechanism 54 (regular electric mechanism) is in the open state. Furthermore, the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 (ease of inserting the ball) varies depending on the game state.

[0108] As shown in Figure 8, the game state transition control means 250 performs a game state transition control process that transitions the game state between each game state based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions (transition conditions).

[0109] (Normal state) The normal state (normal game state) is the initial state among the various game states. As mentioned above, in the normal state, the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is lower than in the time-saving state. Furthermore, even if a "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal mechanism 54 operates in such a way that the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 hardly increases. For this reason, in the normal state, it is difficult (impossible) to get the game ball into the second start opening 49. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) to obtain an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery. In the normal state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot left to get the game ball into the first start opening 46 in order to obtain an opportunity for the first special symbol lottery, rather than shooting right. In other words, the normal state is a game state in which left-handed shooting is recommended.

[0110] As shown in Figure 8, the game transitions to a special game state based on winning a "jackpot" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state. As shown in Figure 7(a), if "jackpot 1" is won in the special symbol lottery, 10,000 rounds of time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to a time-saving spin state based on the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 2" is won in the special symbol lottery, 110 rounds of time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to a time-saving spin state based on the end of the special game state.

[0111] (Time-saving state) As mentioned above, in the time-saving state (specific game state), the probability of winning a "regular win" in the regular symbol lottery is higher than in the normal state. Also, when a "regular win" is won in the regular symbol lottery, the regular mechanism 54 operates in a way that increases the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49. For this reason, in the time-saving state, it is easier to get the game ball into the second start opening 49 compared to the normal state. In other words, it is easier to obtain an opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery. In the time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot to the right to get the game ball through the passage gate 48 in order to obtain an opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery, rather than shooting to the left. In other words, the time-saving state is a game state in which shooting to the right is recommended.

[0112] As shown in Figure 8, if a "Big Win" or "Small Win" is achieved in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery) during the time-saving state, the game transitions to a special game state (including via the small win game state). As shown in Figure 7(b), if "Big Win 3" is achieved in the special symbol lottery, 10,000 time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "Big Win 4" is achieved in the special symbol lottery, 110 time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7(c), if "Small Win 1" is achieved in the special symbol lottery, and the passage of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the small win game state, 10,000 time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Furthermore, if the player wins "Minor Win 2" in the special symbol lottery and the game ball is detected passing through a specific area during the minor win game state, 110 rounds of time-saving features will be set at the end of the special game state, and the game will transition to the time-saving feature state based on the end of the special game state.

[0113] The game state transition control means 250 determines that the termination condition (a predetermined condition) for the time-saving state has been met when the number of times the second special symbol has been displayed in the time-saving state reaches 110 (or 10,000) times, terminates the time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state. In this embodiment, when the special game state ends, the time-saving counter 2915 in the main memory 290 is stored with a value corresponding to the type of winning symbol, and each time the second special symbol is displayed in the time-saving state, "1" is deducted from the value stored in the time-saving counter 2915. Then, when the value of the time-saving counter 2915 reaches "0", the time-saving termination condition is met, the time-saving state ends, and the normal state begins. In this embodiment, the time-saving termination condition is met when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is subtracted and reaches a predetermined value "0". However, the system is not limited to this, and the time-saving termination condition may be met when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is added and reaches a predetermined value "110" (or "10000").

[0114] Let's return to Figure 5 for explanation. The payout control means 270 controls the payout (electronically) of a number of game balls corresponding to a predetermined number of prize balls for each detection signal, based on the detection signals received from the first start switch 100, the second start switch 103, the general prize slot switch 101, and the count switch 104.

[0115] The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated according to the various calculation results of the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 and the frame control board 201. In this embodiment, only unidirectional communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible between the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202, and the communication connection is configured such that the sub-control board 202 cannot transmit information to the main control board 200.

[0116] Next, the sub-control board 202 will be described. The sub-control board 202 is composed of a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 302. The sub-memory 302 is equipped with multiple types of RAM and ROM, and the various data stored in the sub-memory 302 are stored in each of the RAMs and ROMs.

[0117] The performance control means 300 controls the performance device based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150, and performance data stored in the performance data storage means 303 (ROM) of the sub-memory 302. By controlling the performance device, it makes the performance device execute performances to enhance or assist the game, such as turning on or flashing the front frame lamp 12 and lighting device 38, displaying performance images on the liquid crystal display 32, controlling the sound device to output performance sounds from the speaker 14, and driving the performance item drive device to operate the performance items (mechanical items).

[0118] The liquid crystal display 32 performs an effect by displaying an effect image on its display surface. The effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is a composite image formed by superimposing multiple layers on which drawing materials (source images) are arranged.

[0119] The performance data storage means 303 stores a large number of performance image data for displaying images on the liquid crystal display 32. The performance control means 300 draws an image to the frame buffer of the sub-memory 302 every frame (1 / 30 second) based on this performance image data, and displays the drawn image on the liquid crystal display 32, thereby playing and displaying a video on the liquid crystal display 32. The performance screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is composed of, for example, 30 frames per second (hereinafter referred to as "frames") (a so-called 30fps frame rate). Therefore, for example, in the case of a performance pattern with a length of 1 minute, the performance screen consists of a total of 1800 frames, which is 60 seconds × 30 frames. Alternatively, for example, it may be composed of 60 frames per second. Examples of displayable objects (images) on the liquid crystal display 32 include people, animals, vehicles, buildings, natural objects (e.g., rocks, trees, etc.), characters, backgrounds, patterns, designs, etc.

[0120] (Stage design) The performance control means 300 can perform a performance in which performance symbols (demo symbols, predetermined symbols) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 in accordance with (corresponding to) the fluctuation and stop display of special symbols in the first special symbol display unit 76 or the second special symbol display unit 81, in both the normal state and the time-saving state, and can notify the result of the special symbol lottery. In the normal state, the performance control means 300 displays performance symbols on the liquid crystal display 32 that correspond to the fluctuation and stop display of the first special symbol, and in the time-saving state, it displays performance symbols on the liquid crystal display 32 that correspond to the fluctuation and stop display of the second special symbol.

[0121] Here, we will explain the display of the performance symbols in the normal state. Figure 9(a) shows the state before the first special symbol begins to change in the normal state. The left performance symbol 350, the middle performance symbol 352, and the right performance symbol 354 are displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32. The left performance symbol 350 is displayed on the left side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, the middle performance symbol 352 is displayed in the center of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, and the right performance symbol 354 is displayed on the right side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32. The left performance symbol 350, the middle performance symbol 352, and the right performance symbol 354 each constitute a sequence of nine performance symbols representing the numbers "1" to "9". Note that each performance symbol representing the numbers "1" to "9" may include decorative elements such as characters along with the numbers.

[0122] As shown in Figure 9(b), the display of the special symbols changes (display effect) when the first special symbol starts to change. The downward arrow in the figure indicates that the special symbols are rapidly changing (scrolling) in the vertical direction.

[0123] As shown in Figure 9(c), the performance symbols are displayed in a stopped state based on the stop display of the first special symbol. The performance symbols are displayed in a manner corresponding to the result of the first special symbol lottery. For example, if a "jackpot" is won in the first special symbol lottery, the performance symbols are displayed in a manner corresponding to the jackpot symbol determined in the symbol determination process. Although not shown in the illustration, even in the time-saving state, the performance symbols are displayed in a changed or stopped state in accordance with the changing and stopped displays of the second special symbol, just as in the normal state (as shown in Figures 9(a), 9(b), and 9(c)).

[0124] In other words, each time a first special random value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is performed, the performance control means 300 causes the left performance symbol 350a, the middle performance symbol 350b, and the right performance symbol 350c (in other words, a sequence of multiple symbols) to change and display, in accordance with the start of the changing display of the first special symbol in the first special symbol display unit 76, or each time a second special random value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is performed, the start of the changing display of the second special symbol in the second special symbol display unit 81, after changing and displaying the left performance symbol 350a, the middle performance symbol 350b, and the right performance symbol 350c (in other words, a sequence of multiple symbols), to execute a performance on the liquid crystal display 32 that stops displaying the left performance symbol 350a, the middle performance symbol 350b, and the right performance symbol 350c in accordance with the start of the changing display of the first special symbol in the first special symbol display unit 76, or each time a second special random value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is performed, in accordance with the start of the changing display of the second special symbol in the second special symbol display unit 81.

[0125] (Holding performance) The performance control means 300 executes a performance (reserve performance) that displays an image representing the first special reserve number or the second special reserve number on the liquid crystal display 32, based on the first special reserve number (the first special random number value stored (reserved) in the special random number storage means 2914) or the second special reserve number (the second special random number value stored (reserved) in the special random number storage means 2914) in the main control board 200. As shown in Figure 9(a) and the like, four reserve display areas (display areas), the first reserve display area 411 to the fourth reserve display area 414, are provided at the bottom of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 32, corresponding to the first special reserve storage area 1 to the first special reserve storage area 4 or the second special reserve storage area 1 to the second special reserve storage area 4 of the special random number storage means 2914.

[0126] Figure 9(a) shows the hold animation performed in the normal state, where the first special random value is stored in the first special hold memory area 1 to the first special hold memory area 3, and the first hold image 420 (display of the first hold ball) (3 first hold images 420) is displayed in the first hold display area 411 to the third hold display area 413. Figure 9(d) shows the hold animation performed in the time-saving state, where the second special random value is stored in the second special hold memory area 1 to the second special hold memory area 2, and the second hold image 422 (display of the second hold ball) (2 second hold images 422) is displayed in the first hold display area 411 to the second hold display area 412.

[0127] In addition, during the hold animation, one hold display area 430 is displayed in the area to the left of the first hold display area 411 at the bottom of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, corresponding to the special hold storage area of ​​the special random number storage means 2914. In the hold display area 430, the first hold image 420 is displayed when the first special random value is read from the first special hold storage area 1 and stored in the special hold storage area (Figure 9(b)). Also, when the second special random value is read from the second special hold storage area 1 and stored in the special hold storage area, the second hold image 422 is displayed.

[0128] In this embodiment, when a "jackpot" (win) is achieved in the first special symbol lottery, it may be referred to as a case where a specific result is obtained, and when a "loss" is achieved, it may be referred to as a case where a specific result is not obtained. Furthermore, when a "win" ("jackpot" or "minor win") is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, it may be referred to as a case where a specific result is obtained, and when a "loss" is achieved, it may be referred to as a case where a specific result is not obtained.

[0129] As described above, the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the first start-up switch 100, which detects each game ball entering the first start-up 46, and obtains a random value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210, and stores it as the first special random value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. The special symbol lottery means 230 reads the first special random value from the special random number storage means 2914 and performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process), etc., as part of the special symbol lottery. Furthermore, as described above, the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the second start port switch 103, which detects each game ball entering the second start port 49, and obtains a random value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210, and stores it as a second special random value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. The special symbol lottery means 230 reads the second special random value from the special random number storage means 2914 and performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process), etc., as part of the special symbol lottery.

[0130] (Main variation pattern determination process) The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a main variation pattern determination process for the special symbol lottery. In this embodiment, multiple types of main variation patterns with different variation times are provided, and the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a main variation pattern lottery (variation time lottery) to determine which of the multiple types of main variation patterns to use. Variation times include relatively short variation times and relatively long variation times. Furthermore, if a win is achieved in the special symbol lottery, the probability of a relatively long variation time being determined is higher than if a win is not achieved in the special symbol lottery. However, even if a win is not achieved in the special symbol lottery, a relatively long variation time may still be determined.

[0131] The special display control means 240 causes the first special symbol (or second special symbol) to change by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 (or second special symbol display unit 81) until the change time determined in the main change pattern determination process has elapsed, and then causes the first special symbol (or second special symbol) to stop by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 (or second special symbol display unit 81) in a predetermined manner (a manner corresponding to the result of the special symbol lottery).

[0132] (Preliminary assessment) The special symbol lottery means 230 (pre-determination means) performs pre-determination processing such as pre-jackpot determination processing, pre-symbol determination processing, and pre-variation pattern determination processing when storing the first special random value in the special random number storage means 2914 (before the special symbol lottery is performed). When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the first start switch 100 and obtains a random value for special symbol lottery (lottery information) from the random number generation means 210, it performs pre-determination processing such as pre-jackpot determination processing, pre-symbol determination processing, and pre-variation pattern determination processing for the first special random value, according to the game state and the number of reserved balls at that time, before storing it as the first special random value. Furthermore, when the special symbol lottery means 230 (pre-determination means) stores the second special random value in the special random number storage means 2914 (before the special symbol lottery is performed), it performs pre-determination processing such as pre-jackpot determination processing, pre-symbol determination processing, and pre-variation pattern determination processing. When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the second start port switch 103 and obtains a random value for special symbol lottery (lottery information) from the random number generation means 210, it performs pre-determination processing such as pre-jackpot determination processing, pre-symbol determination processing, and pre-variation pattern determination processing for the second special random value, depending on the game state and the number of reserved balls at that time, before storing it as the second special random value.

[0133] Furthermore, the pre-determination process may be configured to execute a dedicated pre-determination process (pre-jackpot determination process, pre-symbol determination process) rather than the same process (for example, a lottery process based on the same table) that is executed when the fluctuations based on the random values ​​for special symbol lottery that are actually stored as pending are performed.

[0134] The special symbol lottery means 230 transmits pre-determination results, including the results of pre-jackpot determination processing, pre-symbol determination processing, and pre-variation pattern determination processing, as pre-determination result information to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300), and stores the pre-determination results in association with the first special random value or second special random value that was the subject of the pre-determination processing. Based on the received pre-determination result information, the performance control means 300 can execute performances and the like that suggest the result of the special symbol lottery.

[0135] As shown in Figure 8, when the special game state ends, the game transitions to the time-saving state. In this embodiment, if a specific operation is input during a predetermined period in the special game state (for example, between the second round and the final round), the performance to be executed in the time-saving state after the end of the special game state is set to a special performance. In other words, if the performance control means 300 receives a specific operation during a predetermined period in the special game state, it can execute a special performance in the time-saving state. Here, the specific operation is, for example, pressing the lever 15 for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) or longer. Also, during the predetermined period, no performance prompting the input of the predetermined operation is executed, but the operation of the lever 15 (reception of the operation) is in an active state. The predetermined operation can be called a so-called hidden button operation.

[0136] (Special performance) Figure 10 shows the state after transitioning to a time-saving state, with a special effect being executed on the liquid crystal display 32. During the special effect, a predetermined character F facing the player is displayed in the center of the screen. In addition, the main effect symbols (left effect symbol 350, middle effect symbol 352, and right effect symbol 354) are displayed in the area indicated by symbol L (lower part of the center of the screen). Note that the main effect symbols may be configured not to be displayed while the special effect is being executed. Also, a right-hand shot indicator R prompting the player to shoot to the right is displayed in the upper right of the screen. In addition, mini symbols and a reserve count indicator are displayed in the area indicated by symbol M (lower right of the screen).

[0137] Mini symbols, like main display symbols, are display symbols that correspond to the changes (stops) of special symbols, but are smaller in display size than main display symbols. Mini symbols consist of a mini left display symbol, a mini middle display symbol, and a mini right display symbol. Note that mini symbols consist only of numbers and do not include any decorative elements. Even if the visibility of the main display symbols is reduced (including when they are not visible), the display of mini symbols allows the player to understand whether the special symbols are changing or not.

[0138] The reserved ball count display shows the first special reserved ball count and the second special reserved ball count, with the two numbers displayed side by side in a predetermined direction (left-right or up-down). One number corresponds to the number of first special random values ​​(any of 0 to 4) reserved in the first special reserved ball storage area 1 to the first special reserved ball storage area 4 of the special random number storage means 2914, and the other number corresponds to the number of second special random values ​​(any of 0 to 4) reserved in the second special reserved ball storage area 1 to the second special reserved ball storage area 4 of the special random number storage means 2914. The reserved ball count display is smaller in size than the first reserved ball image 420 and the second reserved ball image 422 shown in Figure 9. Even if the visibility of the reserved ball display (reserved balls) is reduced (including when they are not visible), the player can still grasp the number of reserved balls because the reserved ball count display is shown.

[0139] The special symbol lottery means 230 of the main control board 200 transmits information indicating the result of the special symbol lottery (jackpot determination process, symbol determination process, variation pattern determination process) to the sub-control board 202. The performance control means 300 of the sub-control board 202 performs performance-related control based on this information. The following describes the case where the sub-control board 202 receives specific information from the main control board 200, and the specific information includes information indicating that the result of the special symbol lottery is a win (a specific result) or information indicating that the variation time is relatively long (for example, any of 30 to 50 seconds). In other words, the following describes the case where the sub-control board 202 receives information indicating that it is a winning variation (one of several winning variations that is a long variation). Hereinafter, "variation start" refers to the start of a winning variation.

[0140] (Winning indication effect) When the performance control means 300 receives the specific information during the execution of a special performance in the time-saving state, it executes a performance (win indication performance, win notification, celebration performance) that suggests a win has been achieved when a predetermined time X (for example, 25 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the special symbol variation, as shown in Figure 11. When the predetermined time X has elapsed, the timing of the end (elapsed) of the win variation (variation time) is also a few seconds (for example, about 5 to 10 seconds) earlier. When the win indication performance is executed, a predetermined display (for example, a message display) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, multiple lamps such as the front frame lamp 12 shown in Figure 1 and the panel surface LEDs of the game board 6 shown in Figure 3 (which may also be the lighting device 38) light up in rainbow colors, and a predetermined sound (which may also be the sound corresponding to the message display) is output from the speaker 14.

[0141] (Pre-win suggestion effect) Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the performance control means 300 receives the specific information, it may execute a performance (pre-win suggestion performance, instant notification performance) that suggests (in advance) that a win (specific result) has been obtained, before the predetermined time X has elapsed (i.e., without waiting for 25 seconds to pass). The pre-win suggestion performance (specific performance) differs in its manner from the win suggestion performance described above. When the pre-win suggestion performance is executed, the player can grasp that a win has been obtained at a relatively early timing (stage) after the start of the variation. In other words, the player can experience the joy sooner.

[0142] As shown in Figure 2, a specific lamp 39 (specific lighting means) is provided in the lower right corner of the game board 6 (board surface). The specific lamp 39 is formed to emit light (light up) in a predetermined color. The "predetermined color" is not limited to a single color, but may be a combination of multiple colors.

[0143] In this embodiment, when a pre-win indication effect is performed, at least one specific lamp 39 lights up. As shown in Figure 12, this embodiment provides multiple types of pre-win indication effects with different modes, including normal mode 1, normal mode 2, special mode 1, and special mode 2.

[0144] The pre-win indication effect in normal mode 1 is an effect in which a specific lamp 39 lights up for a short time (for example, less than 1 second) at a predetermined timing (described later). In the pre-win indication effect in normal mode 1, no sound is output when the specific lamp 39 lights up. During gameplay, the player's gaze is focused on the LCD display 32, so the player may not notice the lighting up of the specific lamp 39, but the pre-win indication effect in normal mode 1 is an effect that can give the player the impression that the specific lamp 39 has flashed.

[0145] In the normal mode 2 pre-win indication effect, a specific lamp 39 lights up at a predetermined timing (described later), and the specific lamp 39 remains lit until a predetermined time X has elapsed. In the normal mode 2 pre-win indication effect, no sound is output when the specific lamp 39 lights up. During gameplay, the player's gaze is focused on the LCD display 32, so the player may not notice the specific lamp 39 lighting up. The normal mode 2 pre-win indication effect is designed to give the player the impression that the specific lamp 39 lit up without them noticing.

[0146] The pre-win indication effect of Special Mode 1 is an effect in which, based on the operation (pulling) of the lever 15, a specific lamp 39 flashes rapidly (lights up) for a certain period of time (for example, 2 seconds), and a sound effect (for example, "boom") is output from the speaker 14 along with the light of the specific lamp 39. The pre-win indication effect of Special Mode 1 is an effect that is easy for players to notice and has a relatively large impact on players.

[0147] The pre-win indication effect of Special Mode 2 is an effect in which, based on the operation (pulling) of the lever 15, a specific lamp 39 flashes rapidly (lights up) for a certain period of time (for example, 2 seconds), and along with the light of the specific lamp 39, the effect operation means (effect button 26 and lever 15) vibrates, and a special sound (for example, a voice saying "Congratulations") is output from the speaker 14. The pre-win indication effect of Special Mode 2 is more easily noticed by the player and has a relatively greater impact on the player than the pre-win indication effect of Special Mode 1.

[0148] The pre-win indication effects in special modes (special mode 1 or special mode 2) can be described as more flashy (making a greater impression on the player) than the pre-win indication effects in normal modes (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2). Furthermore, the pre-win indication effects in special mode 2 can be described as more flashy (making a greater impression on the player) than the pre-win indication effects in special mode 1.

[0149] The performance control means 300, at the start of the variation, refers to the table shown in Figure 13 and performs a lottery to determine whether to perform a pre-win indication performance, a pre-win indication performance of normal mode 1, or a pre-win indication performance of normal mode 2. In this embodiment, the probability of determining not to perform a pre-win indication performance in the lottery is 20%, the probability of determining to perform a pre-win indication performance of normal mode 1 is 40%, and the probability of determining to perform a pre-win indication performance of normal mode 2 is 40%. If the lottery determines not to perform a pre-win indication performance, the performance control means 300 will not perform a pre-win indication performance until a predetermined time X has elapsed, and will perform the aforementioned win indication performance when the predetermined time X has elapsed.

[0150] If it is decided to execute the pre-win indication performance of normal mode 1 or normal mode 2, the performance control means 300 refers to the table shown in Figure 14 and determines by lottery which of the multiple timings (occurrence timings) the performance will be executed at. Specifically, it will be one of the following: at the start of the variation (immediately after the start of the variation), 5 seconds after the start of the variation, 10 seconds after the start of the variation, 15 seconds after the start of the variation, or 20 seconds after the start of the variation. In this lottery, there is a 20% chance that the start time of the variation will be determined, a 20% chance that the start time will be determined to be 5 seconds after the start of the variation, a 20% chance that the start time will be 10 seconds after the start of the variation, a 20% chance that the start time will be 15 seconds after the start of the variation, and a 20% chance that the start time will be 20 seconds after the start of the variation.

[0151] If it is decided to execute the pre-win indication performance of normal mode 1 or normal mode 2, the performance control means 300 further refers to the table shown in Figure 15 and conducts a lottery to determine whether or not to execute the pre-win indication performance of special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) if the lever 15 is operated during the effective period of lever operation (described later) (based on the operation of lever 15). In this embodiment, the probability that the lottery determines that the pre-win indication performance of special mode will not be executed based on the lever operation is 10%, and the probability that the lottery determines that the pre-win indication performance of special mode will be executed (executable) based on the lever operation is 90%. If the lottery determines that the pre-win indication performance of special mode will be executed based on the lever operation, the performance control means 300 enables the operation of lever 15. Furthermore, if the lottery determines not to execute a special type of pre-win indication performance based on lever operation, the performance control means 300 will execute a normal type 1 or normal type 2 pre-win indication performance (a performance determined using the table in Figure 13) at a predetermined timing (a timing determined using the table in Figure 14) (without enabling the operation of the lever 15).

[0152] If, in the lottery, it is decided to execute a special type of pre-win indication performance based on lever operation, the performance control means 300 decides which of the two pre-win indication performances, special type 1 or special type 2, to execute each time the lever 15 is operated (details will be described later), and executes the decided performance. If the performance control means 300 executes a pre-win indication performance of special type 1 or special type 2 based on lever operation before executing a pre-win indication performance of normal type 1 or normal type 2, it controls the system so that it does not execute a pre-win indication performance of normal type 1 or normal type 2 even when a predetermined timing (the timing determined using Figure 14) arrives.

[0153] If, in the lottery, it is decided to execute a special type of pre-win indication performance based on lever operation, the performance control means 300 may execute the special type of pre-win indication performance based not only on the first lever operation, but also on the second and subsequent lever operations.

[0154] Here, the processing (control) performed by the performance control means 300 after the start of the variation will be explained using the flowchart shown in Figure 16. At the start of the flowchart shown in Figure 16, it is assumed that a lottery using the table in Figure 13 has been performed, and it has been determined to execute the normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2) pre-win suggestion performance, and that a lottery using the table in Figure 15 has been performed, and it has been determined to execute the special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) pre-win suggestion performance.

[0155] (Step S1) The performance control means 300 performs a lottery to determine at what timing to execute the pre-win indication performance in the normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2).

[0156] (Step S2) The performance control means 300 enables the operation (reception of operation) of the lever 15. In this embodiment, the operation of the lever 15 is defined as pulling the lever 15, but it may also be an operation of pushing (pressing) the lever 15. In addition, in this embodiment, the target of the operation is the lever 15 (performance operation means), but the performance operation means may be a button or the like other than the lever 15. That is, the performance operation means may be a performance button 26 or a directional pad 27, etc.

[0157] (Step S3) The performance control means 300 determines whether or not the lever 15 is within its valid operation period. The valid operation period (specific period) of the lever 15 is from the start of the variation until a predetermined time X has elapsed. However, even before the predetermined time X has elapsed, if a pre-win indication performance of normal mode 1 or normal mode 2 is performed, the valid operation period of the lever 15 ends based on that performance. If it is determined in step S3 that the lever 15 is within its valid operation period (step S3: YES), the process proceeds to step S4. On the other hand, if it is determined that the lever 15 is not within its valid operation period (step S3: NO), the process ends.

[0158] (Step S4) The performance control means 300 determines whether or not it has received an operation of the lever 15. If it determines that it has received an operation of the lever 15 (step S4: YES), it proceeds to the process of step S5. On the other hand, if it determines that it has not received an operation of the lever 15 (step S4: NO), it proceeds to the process of step S6.

[0159] (Step S5) The performance control means 300 executes a pre-win suggestion performance of either special mode 1 or special mode 2. The method for determining which of special mode 1 and special mode 2 to execute will be described later. After the processing in step S5, the process proceeds to step S3.

[0160] (Step S6) The performance control means 300 determines whether the timing (period) determined in step S1 has been reached. If it is determined that the timing has been reached (step S6: YES), the process proceeds to step S7. On the other hand, if it is determined that the timing has not been reached (step S6: NO), the process proceeds to step S3.

[0161] (Step S7) The performance control means 300 executes a pre-win indication performance in normal mode 1 or normal mode 2. After the processing in step S7, the process proceeds to step S3. In this embodiment, when the pre-win indication performance in normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2) is executed, the effective period for operating the lever 15 ends. Therefore, the processing in step S3 is determined to be "NO".

[0162] In this embodiment, even if a pre-award hint effect of a special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) is executed, the operation valid period of the lever 15 does not end. Even when the process of step S5, that is, the execution of the pre-award hint effect of the special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) is performed once, the operation valid period of the lever 15 continues. When the lever 15 is operated within the operation valid period of the lever 15, the pre-award hint effect of the special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) is executed again based on the operation. Therefore, the player can experience the pre-award hint effect of the special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) not only once but also multiple times. The gaming machine of this embodiment has a gaming property that the player can generate (execute) the effect by operating the lever 15, and can enhance the player's participation awareness in the game. Thereby, the interest of the game can be improved.

[0163] When a win (win variation) is obtained during the execution of a special effect in the time shortening state, a win hint effect is executed when a predetermined time X (for example, 25 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the variation. However, a pre-win hint effect of the normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2) can be executed before that. When the effect is executed, the player can know earlier that a win has been obtained. Furthermore, when the player operates the lever 15 before the pre-win hint effect of the normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2) is executed, the pre-win hint effect of the special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) can be executed based on the operation. When the effect is executed, the player can know earlier the result of the game (that a win has been obtained).

[0164] (Pre-win hint effect of special mode) If a "Big Win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, as shown in Figure 7(b), there is a 12.8 / 100 chance of winning "Big Win 3" (10R time reduction 10000) and an 87.2 / 100 chance of winning "Big Win 4" (7R time reduction 110). If a "Minor Win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, as shown in Figure 7(c), there is a 50 / 100 chance of winning "Minor Win 1" (10R time reduction 10000) and a 50 / 100 chance of winning "Minor Win 2" (7R time reduction 110). A win that results in 10R special play ("Big Win 3" or "Minor Win 1") is called a "win of 1500 balls or more" (second result) because the player can win 1500 prize balls. Additionally, a win that results in a 7R special game ("Big Win 4" or "Small Win 2") is called a "win of less than 1500 balls" (first result). The second result offers more prize balls than the first result and can be considered a more favorable result for the player.

[0165] (First operation) The performance control means 300 executes the pre-win indication performance of special mode 1, regardless of the type of win, when the lever 15 is operated for the first time within the effective period of lever operation 15. In other words, based on the first operation of the lever 15, only the pre-win indication performance of special mode 1 (first mode) is executed, and the pre-win indication performance of special mode 2 (second mode) is not executed. However, the performance control means 300 may be configured to execute the pre-win indication performance of special mode 2 based on the first operation of the lever 15 when the type of win is a "win of 1500 balls or more". Executing it "slightly" means executing it with an extremely low probability (for example, around 1%).

[0166] (For subsequent operations) When the lever 15 is operated two or more times within the valid operation period of the performance control means 300, the following control is performed. The performance control means 300 determines whether the type of win is "a win of 1500 or more hits". If it is "a win of less than 1500 hits", it executes a pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 1. On the other hand, when the type of win is "a win of 1500 or more hits", the performance control means 300 conducts a lottery to determine whether to perform a pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 1 (the first mode) or a pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 2 (the second mode). In this lottery, the probability that the pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 1 is determined is 75%, and the probability that the pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 2 is determined is 25%. That is, when it is "a win of 1500 or more hits", the pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 2 is determined with a probability of 25%. The pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 2 is a performance that can suggest that it is "a win of 1500 or more hits". Therefore, when the pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 2 is executed, the player can grasp that they have won a more advantageous win for the player and can be immersed in great joy.

[0167] In this embodiment, the probability that the pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 2 is determined (occurs) is higher for the second and subsequent operations than for the first operation (note that the probability for the first operation may be 0%). Therefore, it can be said that it is easier to grasp whether a "win of 1500 or more hits" has been obtained for the second and subsequent operations of the lever 15 than for the first operation. The player can perform the second and subsequent lever operations while hoping that the pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 2 is executed. Thereby, it is possible to give the player a motivation to operate the lever 15 a plurality of times and improve the interest of the game (entertain the player). Even when the pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 2 is not executed based on the second and subsequent operations, by configuring it so that it is possible to obtain a "win of 1500 or more hits", it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation and improve the interest of the game.

[0168] As in this embodiment, the configuration in which the pre-win indication performance executed based on lever operation differs depending on the type of win, that is, whether or not it is a win of a predetermined number of prize balls (1500 balls) or more, is applicable to gaming machines (models) in which the types of wins are similarly set (configured). Furthermore, the pre-win indication effect according to this embodiment (Figure 12) is executed via a different effect device (lamp, speaker, effect operation means (button, etc.)) than the liquid crystal display 32, and can be installed in a wide range of gaming machines.

[0169] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means (performance control means 300) that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, It includes a means for controlling the effects (lever 15) that can be operated by the player, The main control means includes a lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a lottery based on the entry of a game medium into a predetermined area (second start opening 49) provided in the game area, The results of the aforementioned lottery include specific outcomes that result in the execution of a special game that is advantageous to the player. The aforementioned specific results include a first result and a second result that is more favorable to the player than the first result. If the aforementioned lottery yields the aforementioned specific result, and the aforementioned performance control means is operated during the specified period, a specific performance indicating that the aforementioned specific result has been obtained may be executed. The aforementioned specific performance includes at least a first-mode specific performance and a second-mode specific performance, The specific performance in the second embodiment can suggest that the second result has been obtained.

[0170] By creating a gameplay experience where a specific animation can be executed when the player operates the animation control device within a specific period, suggesting that a specific result has been achieved, the player's sense of participation in the game can be enhanced, and the range of gameplay can be broadened. Furthermore, multiple forms of the specific animation are available, and the second form of the specific animation can suggest that a more favorable result (i.e., the second result) has been obtained. Therefore, when the second form of the specific animation is executed based on the operation of the animation control device, the player can understand that a more favorable result (the second result) has been obtained, and can experience great joy. This enhances the enjoyment of the game.

[0171] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The aforementioned performance control means is capable of executing the specified performance based on each operation when the performance operation means is operated multiple times within the specified period. The probability that the specific performance of the second embodiment will be performed based on the second or subsequent operation is higher than the probability that the specific performance of the second embodiment will be performed based on the first operation.

[0172] The probability of the second specific animation being executed is higher with subsequent operations of the animation control device than with the first operation. Therefore, it is easier to determine whether the second result has been obtained with subsequent operations than with the first operation. The player can perform subsequent operations hoping that the second specific animation will be executed. This provides the player with an incentive to operate the animation control device multiple times, thereby enhancing the enjoyment of the game (making the player more entertained).

[0173] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the gaming machine of this embodiment has basically the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment, the description of similar configurations will be omitted or simplified.

[0174] The special symbol lottery means 230 transmits pre-determination results, including the results of the jackpot determination process and the symbol determination process, as pre-determination processing to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) as pre-determination result information. The performance control means 300 may execute a pre-read performance based on the received pre-determination result information between the time a first special random value or a second special random value is acquired and the time the display of the variation of the first special symbol or second special symbol for the first special random value or second special random value acquired immediately before that first special random value or second special random value is completed (while the display of the variation of the special symbol based on the previous hold is being executed). The pre-read performance can be described as a performance that hints in advance at the result of the special symbol lottery (the expected value of winning). The performance control means 300 determines whether or not to execute the pre-read performance by lottery or the like.

[0175] One example of a pre-announcement effect is a hold-change effect, which changes the display manner (color, etc.) of the hold-up image (first hold-up image 420 or second hold-up image 422 shown in Figure 9) based on the results of a pre-determination process. The color of the hold-up image represents the likelihood of winning, with the likelihood increasing in the order of white, blue, green, red, and gold.

[0176] One example of a pre-announcement effect is a "discomfort effect" that, based on the result of a pre-determination process (that a win has been obtained), is executed to create a sense of unease in the player. In this embodiment, if a "discomfort effect" is executed as a pre-announcement effect, the game has the characteristic of guaranteeing a win (a win is confirmed).

[0177] Examples of creating a sense of incongruity include displaying a predetermined character (mini-character) that is unrelated to the currently running animation (display) in the corner of the LCD display 32 screen. Another example of creating a sense of incongruity is a predetermined character that is unrelated to the currently running animation (display) moving rapidly from one side to the other across the LCD display 32 screen. It should be noted that creating a sense of incongruity is not limited to adding other animations (displays, etc.) to the currently running animation, but may also involve not executing a part of the currently running animation. Not executing a part of an animation may include, for example, not outputting sound or not lighting up a lamp.

[0178] (Special performance) The performance control means 300 receives pre-determined result information indicating that the result of the special symbol lottery is a win (that a specific result has been obtained) during the time-saving state, and if it executes an unusual performance based on this, it (always) executes a special performance during that variation (display of the variation of the second special symbol for the second special random value to which the win is associated). Furthermore, in the shortened time state, the performance control means 300 receives pre-determined result information indicating that the result of the special symbol lottery is a win (that a specific result has been obtained), and based on this, it does not execute an unusual performance. However, in the said variation (display of the variation of the second special symbol for the second special random value to which the win is associated), it may execute a special performance.

[0179] Special effects are performed when a win is achieved (during a win spin), and their occurrence (execution) notifies the player that they have won (or confirmed a win). Furthermore, special effects have a gameplay element that entertains the player who has won (or confirmed a win), and can be considered a reward for the player. Special effects are a reward for winning, and do not put pressure on the player to succeed (it's okay to fail), allowing the player to enjoy them at their own pace.

[0180] In this embodiment, four different types of special effects (first special effect to fourth special effect) are provided, and the effect control means 300 determines which special effect to execute by lottery or the like. The effect control means 300 enables the operation of the effect button 26 (effect operation means) while the special effect is being executed (at the start of the special effect) (sets an operation validity period).

[0181] (1st special performance) Figure 17(a) shows the liquid crystal display 32 immediately after the start of the first special performance. A specific background is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, an indicator (remaining time reduction count indicator) showing the number of remaining variations of the second special symbol until the time reduction state ends is displayed in the upper left of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, the first display L is displayed in the lower left of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. The first display L is a display that continues to be displayed in the same position (fixed display). The first display L is, for example, gray.

[0182] Figure 17(b) shows the timing after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state shown in Figure 17(a). The second display M is a moving display that moves over time, appearing from one side of the screen (right side) and gradually moving toward the other side (left side), becoming invisible when it reaches the other side (left side). The second display M is, for example, yellow. The first display L and the second display M are identical in shape and size and are designed to overlap at a predetermined timing. The second display M has a higher display priority than the first display L (it is placed on a higher layer), and the second display M is displayed (visible) in front of the first display L. Note that the first display L and the second display M may be images related to characters, etc.

[0183] The first special effect has a gameplay feature that encourages the player to press the effect button 26 at the moment when the second display M overlaps with the first display L. The effect control means 300 determines that the press of the effect button 26 was successful when the effect button 26 is pressed at the moment when the second display M overlaps with the first display L, and displays a bonus image as shown in Figure 17(c). The bonus image is an image displayed as a reward for successfully pressing the effect button 26, and is not an image that suggests the likelihood of winning (a specific result). Furthermore, the bonus image is a special (special, rare) image that is only displayed in the special effect, and is an image that can excite the player, and in this embodiment it includes character K. As will be described later, in this embodiment, even if the press of the effect button 26 is unsuccessful, the bonus image is displayed for a very short time.

[0184] Here, the timing when the second display M overlaps with the first display L is defined as the first specific timing. In this embodiment, the effect button 26 is not limited to when it is pressed at the first specific timing, but if the effect button 26 is pressed within the period from about two frames before the first specific timing to about two frames after the first specific timing (the first period), it is determined that the press of the effect button 26 was successful, and the bonus image is displayed. One frame is 1 / 30 of a second. In other words, even if the timing of pressing the effect button 26 is slightly (forward or backward) from the first specific timing, it is determined that the press was successful. The first period is a part of the valid operation period of the effect button 26. Pressing the effect button 26 within the first period is referred to as a successful press of the effect button 26.

[0185] If the performance control means 300 displays a bonus image based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, it will continue displaying the bonus image until the congratulatory performance described later is executed (until the special performance ends). If the performance control means 300 is successful in pressing the performance button 26, it will display the bonus image for 1 hour (the display time in the case of success, from the start of displaying the bonus image until the execution (start) of the congratulatory performance). In addition, based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, the performance control means 300 will output a special voice (message) that is only output during the special performance.

[0186] If the performance button 26 is successfully pressed, the performance control means 300 stops the movement of the second display M and maintains the state in which the second display M and the first display L overlap (the state in which the first display L is covered by the second display M) until the blessing performance described later is executed. However, the performance control means 300 may display the bonus image based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26 and make the second display M and the first display L invisible (hidden).

[0187] The performance control means 300 determines that pressing the performance button 26 has failed if the performance button 26 is not pressed within the first period and the first period has elapsed (ended). Based on the elapsed time of the first period, the bonus image is displayed for a second period, which is shorter than the first period. The second period (display time in case of failure) is the same length as the first period and is extremely short compared to the first period. If the player fails to press the performance button 26, they will only be able to briefly (glance at) the bonus image, and it is highly likely that they will have difficulty understanding the content of the bonus image. By making it possible to briefly view the bonus image even if the performance button 26 is not pressed, the player will be encouraged to successfully press the performance button 26 the next time a special performance is executed and to view the bonus image for a longer period (first hour). Note that the failure to press the performance button 26 includes cases where the player does not press the performance button 26 even once during the execution of the special performance.

[0188] After displaying the bonus image for a second period, the performance control means 300 displays the specific background again, as shown in Figure 17(d). Furthermore, if the performance button 26 is not pressed, the performance control means 300 does not stop the movement of the second display M. The second display M moves past the position of the first display L (in front) to the left side of the screen (left edge).

[0189] In this embodiment, there are two patterns for the first special effect, and which pattern of the first special effect is executed is determined by lottery or the like. The two patterns are a constant speed pattern and a deceleration (slow speed) pattern, and the difficulty of successfully pressing the effect button 26 differs between the two. If the constant speed pattern is determined, the second display M moves at a constant speed (first speed). If the deceleration pattern is determined, the movement speed of the second display M changes in the order of first speed, second speed which is slower than the first speed, and first speed. That is, the second display M starts moving at the first speed, and when it reaches a predetermined position to the right of the first display L (just before overlapping with the first display L), it moves at the second speed, and when it passes the position of the first display L, it moves at the first speed again. Therefore, when a deceleration pattern is determined, it is easier to press the performance button 26 at the timing when the second display M overlaps with the first display L, and it is easier to successfully press the performance button 26 (making it easier to execute the display of the bonus image for the first hour) than when a constant speed pattern is determined.

[0190] The performance control means 300, for example, executes a performance (celebration performance) to notify (celebrate) that a win has been achieved, based on the elapsed time since the start of the variation (start of the variation for a win). When the celebration performance is executed, as shown in Figure 17(e), a rainbow-colored display (for example, a message display) is shown on the liquid crystal display 32, and multiple lamps, such as the front frame lamp 12 shown in Figure 1 and the panel surface LEDs of the game board 6 shown in Figure 3 (which may also be the lighting device 38), emit rainbow-colored light.

[0191] Although not shown in the diagram, the performance control means 300, when an unusual effect is executed, executes an effect at a predetermined trigger after the end of the celebration effect, for example, an effect that aims to pass the game ball through a specific area, and based on the detection of the game ball passing through the specific area (the passage of a game ball that entered the first large prize pocket 50 during the execution of a small win game is detected), notifies the player of what kind of unusual effect was executed. For example, in the case of an unusual effect in which a mini-character is displayed in the corner of the LCD display 32 screen, the text "Unusual effect: A mini-character was cheering" is displayed. Also, for example, in the case of an effect in which a predetermined character moves (passes by) the screen of the LCD display 32 at high speed, the text "Unusual effect: Something passed by" is displayed. By executing such notifications, the player can find out whether the unusual effect they felt was correct or not (they can check their answer). This can enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0192] (2nd special performance) Figure 18(a) shows the liquid crystal display 32 immediately after the start of the second special performance. A specific background is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, an indicator (remaining time reduction count) showing the number of times the second special symbol will change until the time reduction state ends is displayed in the upper left corner of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. Also, a circular roulette display D and an arrow E with its tip pointing to the roulette display D are displayed in the lower center of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. The roulette display D has a first area D1 (failure area) and a second area D2 (success area) which is smaller in range (area) than the first area D1. The second area D2 is a narrow linear (bar-shaped) area and is, for example, red. The first area D1 is, for example, blue and displays the word "Too bad".

[0193] Figure 18(b) shows the timing after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state shown in Figure 18(a). The roulette display D is a display that rotates clockwise (rotating display). Therefore, the position of the second area D2 changes moment by moment. The arrow E is a display that does not move or rotate (fixed display).

[0194] The second special effect has a gameplay feature that encourages the player to press the effect button 26 at the moment when the second area D2 reaches the tip of arrow E. The effect control means 300 determines that the press of the effect button 26 was successful when the effect button 26 is pressed at the moment when the second area D2 reaches the tip of arrow E, and displays a bonus image as shown in Figure 18(c).

[0195] Here, the timing at which the second region D2 reaches the tip of arrow E is defined as the second specific timing. In this embodiment, the press of the performance button 26 is not limited to cases where the performance button 26 is pressed at the second specific timing, but also occurs within the period from approximately two frames before the second specific timing to approximately two frames after the second specific timing (the first period). In such cases, the press of the performance button 26 is determined to be successful, and the bonus image is displayed. One frame is 1 / 30 of a second. In other words, even if the timing of pressing the performance button 26 is slightly (forward or backward) relative to the second specific timing, the press is determined to be successful. The first period is a part of the valid operation period for the performance button 26.

[0196] If the performance control means 300 displays a bonus image based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, it will continue displaying the bonus image until the celebratory performance shown in Figure 18(e) is executed. If the performance control means 300 successfully presses the performance button 26, it will display the bonus image for 1 hour. In addition, based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, the performance control means 300 will output a special voice (message) that is only output during special performances. Furthermore, if the performance control means 300 successfully presses the performance button 26, it will make the roulette display D and arrow E invisible (hide them).

[0197] If the performance button 26 is not pressed within the first period and the first period has elapsed (ended), the performance control means 300 considers the pressing of the performance button 26 to have failed and displays the bonus image for a second period, which is shorter than the first period, based on the elapsed time of the first period. After displaying the bonus image for the second period, the performance control means 300 displays the specific background again, as shown in Figure 18(d). Furthermore, if the pressing of the performance button 26 fails, the performance control means 300 does not make the roulette display D and arrow E invisible (hidden). That is, the roulette display D continues to rotate. Note that the special performance ends and the blessing performance shown in Figure 18(e) is executed (started) before the second area D2 reaches the tip of arrow E again.

[0198] In this embodiment, there are two patterns for the second special effect, and which pattern of the second special effect is executed is determined by lottery or the like. The two patterns are a constant speed pattern and a deceleration pattern, and the difficulty level of successfully pressing the effect button 26 differs between the two. If the constant speed pattern is determined, the roulette display D rotates at a constant speed (first speed). If the deceleration pattern is determined, the rotation speed of the roulette display D changes in the order of first speed, second speed which is slower than the first speed, and first speed. That is, the roulette display D starts rotating at the first speed, and when the second region D2 reaches a predetermined position above the tip of arrow E (a position in front of the tip of arrow E), it rotates at the second speed, and when it passes the position of the tip of arrow E, it rotates at the first speed again. Therefore, when a deceleration pattern is determined, it is easier to press the performance button 26 at the moment the second region D2 reaches the tip of arrow E, and it is easier to successfully press the performance button 26 (making it easier to execute the display of the bonus image for the first hour) than when a constant speed pattern is determined.

[0199] (3rd special performance) Figure 19(a) shows the liquid crystal display 32 immediately after the start of the third special performance. A specific background is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, an indicator (remaining time reduction count indicator) showing the number of remaining variations of the second special symbol until the time reduction state ends is displayed in the upper left corner of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, a rectangular countdown display G is displayed in the lower center of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. Although not shown in the figure, a message prompting the user to press the performance button 26 at a predetermined timing (when the number becomes "0") may be displayed near the countdown display G. The countdown display G includes a frame and a number section displayed within the frame, and the value of the number section decreases by 1 from an initial value (for example, "5") towards "0".

[0200] Figure 19(b) shows the timing after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state shown in Figure 19(a). The value of the countdown display G has decreased from its initial value to "3".

[0201] The third special effect is designed to encourage the player to press the effect button 26 when the countdown display G reaches "0". The effect control means 300 determines that the press of the effect button 26 was successful when the countdown display G reaches "0", and displays a bonus image as shown in Figure 19(c).

[0202] Here, the timing at which the value of the countdown display G reaches "0" is defined as the third specific timing. In this embodiment, the performance button 26 is not limited to when it is pressed at the third specific timing, but if the performance button 26 is pressed within the period from about two frames before the third specific timing to about two frames after the third specific timing (the first period), it is determined that the press of the performance button 26 was successful, and the bonus image is displayed. One frame is 1 / 30 of a second. In other words, even if the timing of pressing the performance button 26 is slightly (before or after) the third specific timing, it is determined that the press was successful. The first period is a part of the valid period for operating the performance button 26.

[0203] If the performance control means 300 displays a bonus image based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, it will continue displaying the bonus image until the celebratory performance shown in Figure 19(e) is executed. If the performance control means 300 successfully presses the performance button 26, it will display the bonus image for 1 hour. In addition, based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, the performance control means 300 will output a special voice (message) that is only output during special performances. Furthermore, if the performance control means 300 successfully presses the performance button 26, it will make the countdown display G invisible (hide it).

[0204] If the performance button 26 is not pressed within the first period and the first period has elapsed (ended), the performance control means 300 considers the pressing of the performance button 26 to have failed and displays the bonus image for a second period, which is shorter than the first period, based on the elapsed time of the first period. After displaying the bonus image for the second period, the performance control means 300 displays the specific background again, as shown in Figure 19(d). Furthermore, if the pressing of the performance button 26 fails, the performance control means 300 does not make the countdown display G invisible (hidden), but instead displays predetermined text (for example, "Try again") within the frame. After that, the celebratory performance shown in Figure 19(e) is executed (started).

[0205] (4th special performance) Figure 20(a) shows the liquid crystal display 32 immediately after the start of the first special performance. A specific background is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. Also, in the upper left corner of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32, there is an indicator showing the number of remaining variations of the second special symbol until the time-saving state ends (remaining time-saving display). Also, in the lower left corner of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32, the first display S is displayed. The first display S is a display that continues to be displayed in the same position (fixed display). The first display S includes a frame and three symbols (7 symbols). The frame has a divider that separates the inside of the frame, forming three areas (left area, middle area and right area). Golden 7 symbols (the same symbols as the performance symbols) are displayed in the left and middle areas, and a gray 7 symbol S1 is displayed in the right area. The first display S can be said to be in a state where the golden 7 symbols are in a ready hand. Furthermore, the frame of the first display S may be a display (design) that mimics the reels of a slot machine.

[0206] Figure 20(b) shows the timing after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state shown in Figure 20(a). The second display T is a moving display that moves over time, appearing from one side (top) in the vertical direction of the screen, gradually moving toward the other side (bottom) in the vertical direction, and becoming invisible when it reaches the other side (bottom). The second display T passes through the right area of ​​the first display S and moves along a straight line extending in the vertical direction. The second display T is a golden 7 symbol, identical to the symbols stopped in the left and middle areas. The second display T, i.e., the golden 7 symbol, is the same shape and size as the gray 7 symbol S1 displayed in the right area of ​​the first display S, and the two are designed to overlap at a predetermined timing. The second display T has a higher display priority than the first display S (gray 7 symbol S1) (it is placed on a higher layer), and the second display T is displayed (visible) in front of the gray 7 symbol S1.

[0207] The fourth special effect has a gameplay feature that encourages the player to press the effect button 26 at the moment when the second display T overlaps with the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S. This can be said to be a gameplay feature similar to that of a slot machine, where the player is asked to time their button press to try and line up the 7 symbols. If the effect button 26 is pressed at the moment when the second display T overlaps with the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S, the effect control means 300 considers the press of the effect button 26 to be successful and displays a bonus image as shown in Figure 20(c).

[0208] Here, the timing when the second display T overlaps with the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S is defined as the fourth specific timing. In this embodiment, the effect button 26 is not limited to when it is pressed at the fourth specific timing, but if the effect button 26 is pressed within the period from about two frames before the fourth specific timing to about two frames after the fourth specific timing (the first period), it is determined that the press of the effect button 26 was successful, and the bonus image is displayed. One frame is 1 / 30 of a second. In other words, even if the timing of pressing the effect button 26 is slightly (forward or backward) from the fourth specific timing, it is determined that the press was successful. The first period is a part of the valid period for operating the effect button 26.

[0209] If the performance control means 300 displays a bonus image based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, it will continue displaying the bonus image until the celebratory performance shown in Figure 20(e) is executed. If the performance control means 300 successfully presses the performance button 26, it will display the bonus image for 1 hour. In addition, based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, the performance control means 300 will output a special voice (message) that is only output during special performances.

[0210] If the performance button 26 is successfully pressed, the performance control means 300 stops the movement of the second display T (golden 7 symbol) and maintains the state in which the second display T and the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S overlap (the gray 7 symbol S1 is covered by the golden 7 symbol) until the celebration performance is executed. However, the performance control means 300 may display a bonus image based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26 and make the second display T and the first display S invisible (hidden).

[0211] If the performance button 26 is not pressed within the first period and the first period has elapsed (ended), the performance control means 300 considers the pressing of the performance button 26 to have failed and displays the bonus image for a second period, which is shorter than the first period, based on the elapsed time of the first period. After displaying the bonus image for the second period, the performance control means 300 displays the specific background again, as shown in Figure 20(d). Furthermore, if the pressing of the performance button 26 fails, the performance control means 300 does not stop the movement of the second display T. The second display T moves past the position of the first display S and to the bottom of the screen (bottom edge).

[0212] In this embodiment, there are two patterns for the fourth special effect, and which pattern of the fourth special effect is executed is determined by lottery or the like. The two patterns are a constant speed pattern and a deceleration pattern, and the difficulty of successfully pressing the effect button 26 differs between the two. If the constant speed pattern is determined, the second display T moves at a constant speed (first speed). If the deceleration pattern is determined, the movement speed of the second display T changes in the order of first speed, second speed which is slower than the first speed, and first speed. That is, the second display T starts moving at the first speed, and when it reaches a predetermined position above the first display S (gray 7 symbol S1) (just before it overlaps with the 7 symbol S1), it moves at the second speed which is slower than the first speed, and when it passes the position of the first display S (7 symbol S1), it moves again at the first speed. Therefore, when a deceleration pattern is determined, it is easier to press the performance button 26 at the timing when the second display T overlaps with the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S, compared to when a constant speed pattern is determined, and it is easier to successfully press the performance button 26 (making it easier to execute the display of the bonus image for the first hour).

[0213] (More than 1500 hits) By the way, if you win a "Big Win" in the second special symbol lottery, in the symbol determination process, as shown in Figure 7(b), you will win "Big Win 3" (10R time reduction 10000) with a probability of 12.8 / 100 and "Big Win 4" (7R time reduction 110) with a probability of 87.2 / 100. Also, if you win a "Small Win" in the second special symbol lottery, in the symbol determination process, as shown in Figure 7(c), you will win "Small Win 1" (10R time reduction 10000) with a probability of 50 / 100 and "Small Win 2" (7R time reduction 110) with a probability of 50 / 100. A win that results in 10R special play ("Big Win 3" or "Small Win 1") is called a "win of 1500 balls or more" (second result) because the player can win 1500 prize balls. Additionally, a win that results in a 7R special game ("Big Win 4" or "Small Win 2") is called a "win of less than 1500 balls" (first result). The second result offers more prize balls than the first result and can be considered a more favorable result for the player.

[0214] In this embodiment, the fourth special effect, which displays a golden 7 symbol (a symbol more special than the others), is an effect that can be executed when the second result (a win of 1500 balls or more) is obtained in the special symbol lottery. In other words, the fourth special effect is not executed when the first result (a win of less than 1500 balls) is obtained in the special symbol lottery. Note that the first to third special effects can be executed regardless of the type of win.

[0215] Furthermore, in this embodiment, multiple types of bonus images are provided, including a special bonus image (premium image). The probability of the special bonus image being displayed in the fourth special performance is higher than the probability of the special bonus image being displayed in the other special performances (first special performance, second special performance, or third special performance). Note that the "probability of the special bonus image being displayed in the other special performances" may be 0%. In other words, the special bonus image may only be displayed in the fourth special performance. The special bonus image appears less frequently than the regular bonus image and is designed to excite the player more. As stated above, the bonus images (including special bonus images) do not indicate the likelihood of winning (achieving a specific result). In other words, the likelihood of winning (the probability of winning) does not change depending on which bonus image is displayed during the special presentation.

[0216] In this embodiment, the first to fourth special effects are designed to be played by pressing the effect button 26 at a predetermined timing (within the first period), but it is not limited to pressing the effect button 16; any operation of the effect operation means (for example, the lever 15) is acceptable.

[0217] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means (performance control means 300) that controls the execution of the performance, A display means (liquid crystal display 32) capable of displaying an image, It includes a means for controlling the effects (effect button 26) that can be operated by the player, The main control means includes a lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a lottery based on the entry of a game medium into a predetermined area (second start opening 49) provided in the game area, The results of the aforementioned lottery include specific outcomes that result in the execution of a special game that is advantageous to the player. The aforementioned performance control means is capable of executing a special performance at a predetermined trigger, and in the special performance, the operation of the performance operation means is enabled. The aforementioned performance control means can display a bonus image for a first hour when the performance operation means is operated during a first period, which is part of the effective period of operation of the performance operation means. Even if the performance operation means is not operated during the first period, the performance control means can display the bonus image for a second period that is shorter than the first period.

[0218] In a special performance, if the player operates the performance control device during the first period, a reward image (reward image) is displayed for one hour as a reward for the operation (successful press) during the first period. Even if the player fails to operate the performance control device during the first period (failure to press), the reward image is displayed for a shorter period, two hours. The performance is designed to encourage the player to operate the performance control device during the first period in order to view the special performance, i.e., the reward image, for a longer period, thereby enhancing the enjoyment of the game. Furthermore, by displaying the reward image for two hours even in the case of a failed press, the player is encouraged to succeed in pressing the button the next time a special performance is performed, and to view the reward image for a longer period (one hour). In other words, the player's interest is piqued and they are attracted to the game. This enhances the enjoyment of the game.

[0219] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The aforementioned special performance is a performance that may be executed in the circumstances under which the aforementioned specific result is obtained. The aforementioned bonus image is not an image that suggests the likelihood of obtaining the aforementioned specific result.

[0220] Special effects are triggered when a specific outcome is achieved, and the bonus images do not indicate the likelihood of achieving that specific outcome. Therefore, players do not need to operate the effect control device (with force and tension) hoping that an image suggesting a high probability of achieving that outcome will be displayed. In other words, players can operate the effect control device in a relaxed manner and enjoy the special effects (whether or not they can display the bonus image for the first hour). This enhances the enjoyment of the game.

[0221] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The first period and the second time are of the same duration. If the first period is made relatively short, the second period will also be short. By shortening the first period and making it more difficult to successfully press the button for the performance control (increasing the difficulty), the second period will also be shortened, making it difficult for the player to grasp the content of the bonus image. Therefore, it is possible to make the player want to view the bonus image for a longer period of time, that is, to successfully press the button the next time a special performance is performed.

[0222] (modified version) In this embodiment, the bonus images for the first to fourth special effects are displayed for a second period (short time) even if the effect button 26 is not pressed successfully (if it is not pressed within the first period). However, the system may be configured so that the bonus images are not displayed if the effect button 26 is not pressed successfully. In other words, the system may be configured so that the bonus images are displayed only if the effect button 26 is pressed successfully.

[0223] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be implemented in various modified forms without departing from its essence. Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is possible to freely combine the embodiments, modify any component of each embodiment, or omit any component in each embodiment. The present invention can also be applied to conventional pachinko machines, that is, pachinko machines in which the player can physically touch the game balls and the game balls are dispensed into a tray based on their entry into predetermined prize slots. [Explanation of symbols]

[0224] 4. Gaming Area 26. Effects Button (Means for Controlling Effects) 32 Liquid crystal display (display means) 49 Second starting port (designated area) 200 Main control board (main control means) 230 Special Symbol Drawing Method (Drawing Method) 300 Performance control means

Claims

1. A gaming machine comprising a game area on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the game area in response to the player's operation, A main control means for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means for controlling the execution of the performance, A display means capable of displaying an image, It includes a means for controlling the effects that can be operated by the player, The main control means includes a lottery means that performs a lottery based on the fact that a game medium has entered a predetermined area provided in the game area, The results of the aforementioned lottery include specific outcomes that result in the execution of a special game that is advantageous to the player. The aforementioned performance control means is capable of executing a special performance at a predetermined trigger, and in the special performance, the operation of the performance operation means is enabled. The aforementioned performance control means is capable of displaying a bonus image for a first hour when the performance operation means is operated during a first period, which is part of the effective period of operation of the performance operation means. The aforementioned performance control means is capable of displaying the bonus image for a second period shorter than the first period, even if the performance operation means is not operated during the first period.

2. The aforementioned special performance is a performance that may be executed in the circumstances under which the aforementioned specific result is obtained. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the aforementioned bonus image is not an image that suggests the likelihood of obtaining the aforementioned specific result.

3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the first period and the second time are of the same duration.

Images