Gaming Machines

Abstract

To provide a gaming machine that can enhance interest. [Solution] The effects include a specific effect that is executed regardless of whether there is a pattern change game that will result in a small jackpot among the pattern change games whose execution is suspended. When a specific effect is executed when a small jackpot game is awarded, the effect display device executes an effect that is executed regardless of whether there is a pattern change game that will result in a first jackpot among the pattern change games whose execution is suspended, and then executes an effect that is executed depending on whether there is a pattern change game that will result in a first jackpot among the pattern change games whose execution is suspended. Even if it is decided to execute a specific effect and the specific effect is executed and the specific effect has ended, new execution of the specific effect is restricted until the pattern change game that was the target of the specific effect has ended, even if the execution of a new pattern change game that will result in a first jackpot is suspended.

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, there are pachinko gaming machines, such as the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, that are capable of suspending the execution of a pattern change game and execute effects targeted at the suspended pattern change game. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2003-340038 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Nowadays, there is a demand for more ingenuity in the presentation of symbol-changing games whose execution is suspended, thereby increasing the interest of the players. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can enhance entertainment value. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A gaming machine that solves the above problem is a gaming machine in which the execution of a pattern change game can be suspended, a specific win game is awarded after the end of a pattern change game which results in a specific win, and a special win game is awarded after the end of a pattern change game which results in a special win, and the gaming machine is equipped with an effect execution means that executes an effect, and when the special win game is awarded, the degree of advantage is higher than when the specific win game is awarded, and the effect includes a specific effect that can be executed for the pattern change game whose execution is suspended, and when the specific win game is awarded, the specific effect is: Regardless of whether the game ball enters a winning hole that allows the game ball to enter in the specific winning game,The specific effect can be executed for the symbol change game whose execution is pending, and when the specific winning game is awarded, if there is a symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is pending, the probability of executing the specific effect is higher than when there is no symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is pending, and the specific effect is executed regardless of whether there is a symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is pending. When the specific winning game is awarded, the effect execution means executes a first effect that is executed regardless of whether there is a symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is pending, and then executes a second effect that is executed depending on whether there is a symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is pending. When it is determined to execute the specific effect and the specific effect is executed, even if the specific effect ends, the specific effect is not executed anew until the symbol change game that was the target of the specific effect ends, even if the execution of the symbol change game resulting in the special winning is newly suspended. figure The gist of the effects is that when the special winning game is awarded, there is a special effect that can be executed for a pattern change game whose execution is pending, and when the specific winning game is awarded, the special effect is not executed, and when the special winning game is awarded, even if there is a pattern change game that will result in the specific win among the pattern change games whose execution is pending, the special effect is not executed if there is no pattern change game that will result in the special win among the pattern change games whose execution is pending, and when the special winning game is awarded, if there is a pattern change game that will result in the special win among the pattern change games whose execution is pending, the special effect is executed even if there is no pattern change game that will result in the specific win among the pattern change games whose execution is pending, and the display content of the effect execution means when the specific effect is executed is different from the display content of the effect execution means when the special effect is executed. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve interest. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. [Diagram 2] Front view of the game board. [Diagram 3] A diagram showing the probability of winning the big win lottery, the probability of winning the small win lottery, and the probability of losing. [Figure 4] A diagram showing the types of jackpots. [Diagram 5] (a) and (b) are diagrams showing an area in the performance display device where a specific pattern related to a first specific pattern change game is displayed, and an area in the performance display device where a specific pattern related to a second specific pattern change game is displayed. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a read-ahead command. [Figure 8] A diagram showing the changes in the ball you have. [Figure 9] A timing chart showing an example in which a winning game is generated based on a winning second special pattern changing game, and control over the execution of the first special pattern changing game is interrupted. [Figure 10] A figure showing an example of the display content of the effect display device when a special effect is executed during a jackpot game. [Figure 11] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing an example of the display content of the effect display device when a specific effect is executed in a small win game. [Figure 12] A timing chart showing an example in which a specific effect is executed when a small win is awarded and a special effect is executed when a first big win is awarded. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the gaming machine will be described. In this specification, up, down, left, right, front (front) and back (rear) indicate the respective directions as seen by a player. As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 10 (hereinafter, referred to as gaming machine 10) as a gaming machine includes a frame body 11. The frame body 11 includes an outer frame 12, a middle frame 13, and a front frame 14. The outer frame 12 is fixed to an installation facility (so-called island facility). The middle frame 13 is supported on the front side of the opening of the outer frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. A gaming board unit including a gaming board 20 is fixed to the middle frame 13. The front frame 14 is supported on the front side of the middle frame 13 so as to be openable and closable so as to cover the front side of the gaming board 20. A protective glass that covers the entire opening 14a of the front frame 14 and protects the gaming board 20 is supported on the front frame 14. In the gaming machine 10, the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 are supported on the outer frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. The gaming machine 10 includes a launch handle 16 on the front side of the front frame 14. In the gaming machine 10, gaming balls as gaming media are shot with an intensity corresponding to the amount of operation (rotation amount) of the launching handle 16. That is, the gaming machine 10 is configured so that the launching intensity of the gaming balls can be adjusted by operating the launching handle 16.

[0009] The gaming machine 10 is provided with a decorative lamp 17 on the front side of the front frame 14. The decorative lamp 17 executes effects (hereinafter referred to as light-emitting effects) by turning on, blinking, and turning off built-in light-emitting elements. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a speaker 18 that outputs sound on the front side of the front frame 14. The speaker 18 executes effects (hereinafter referred to as sound effects) by outputting sounds such as human voices, sound effects, and music.

[0010] As shown in FIG. 2, a game area 21 that is substantially circular in front view is defined on the front side of the game board 20. The game board 20 is provided with a guide passage 21a that guides a game ball launched by operating the launch handle 16 to the game area 21. The game board 20 is provided with a backflow prevention valve 21b that prevents a game ball launched into the game area 21 from returning back to the guide passage 21a. A game ball launched by operating the launch handle 16 is guided by the guide passage 21a, passes through the backflow prevention valve 21b located at the most downstream of the guide passage 21a, and reaches the game area 21. Then, the game ball that reaches the game area 21 flows down the game area 21.

[0011] The gaming machine 10 includes an information display panel 22. The information display panel 22 includes a first special symbol display section 22a. The first special symbol display section 22a displays a first special symbol changing game (hereinafter, referred to as a first special game) in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and a first special symbol is finally fixed and stopped. The information display panel 22 includes a second special symbol display section 22b. The second special symbol display section 22b displays a second special symbol changing game (hereinafter, referred to as a second special game) in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and a second special symbol is finally fixed and stopped. In the following description, the first special game and the second special game may be collectively referred to as a "special symbol changing game" or a "special game". Thus, there are a first special game and a second special game in the special game. The special game corresponds to a symbol changing game. The special symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of an internal lottery, which will be described later.

[0012] In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of the displayed pattern changes over time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" means a state in which the pattern is fixedly displayed and the type of the displayed pattern does not change. Special patterns that can be fixedly displayed in the special pattern display sections 22a and 22b include big win patterns, small win patterns, and miss patterns. When a big win pattern is fixedly displayed in a special game, the player can recognize a big win. When a small win pattern is fixedly displayed in a special game, the player can recognize a small win. When a miss pattern is fixedly displayed in a special game, the player can recognize a miss.

[0013] In this embodiment, the first special game and the second special game are configured to be able to be executed simultaneously. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute the second special game even while the first special game is being executed, and is also configured to be able to execute the first special game even while the second special game is being executed. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, both the first special game and the second special game may be executed in parallel.

[0014] In addition, in the gaming machine 10, when a player wins a jackpot lottery, a jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the winning, and then a jackpot game is generated (awarded). In the gaming machine 10, when a player wins a jackpot lottery (when a player wins a jackpot in the jackpot lottery), a jackpot game is generated (awarded) after the special game that is the subject of the jackpot is finished. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, when a player wins a small jackpot lottery, a small jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the winning, and then a small jackpot game is generated (awarded). In the gaming machine 10, when a player wins a small jackpot lottery (when a player wins a small jackpot in the small jackpot lottery), a small jackpot game is generated (awarded) after the special game that is the subject of the small jackpot is finished. In this embodiment, a small jackpot corresponds to a specific jackpot, and a small jackpot game corresponds to a specific jackpot game.

[0015] In the gaming machine 10, if a big win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special game during the execution of the second special game, a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the second special game, and the second special game ends. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, if a big win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the second special game during the execution of the first special game, a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special game, and the first special game ends. Also, in the gaming machine 10, if a small win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the second special game during the execution of the first special game, a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special game, and the first special game ends. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, if a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special game during the execution of the second special game, the second special game does not end, and the execution of the second special game continues. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, if a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the second special game during the execution of the first special game, the first special game does not end, and the execution of the first special game continues.

[0016] The information display panel 22 includes a first special hold display section 22c. The first special hold display section 22c recognizably displays the number of first special games whose execution is on hold because the start conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met (hereinafter referred to as the first special hold number). The information display panel 22 includes a second special hold display section 22d. The second special hold display section 22d recognizably displays the number of second special games whose execution is on hold because the start conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met (hereinafter referred to as the second special hold number).

[0017] The information display panel 22 includes a normal symbol display section 22e. The normal symbol display section 22e variably displays a predetermined symbol, and displays a normal symbol variable game (hereinafter referred to as a normal game) that finally displays a normal symbol as a fixed stop. The normal symbols that can be displayed as fixed stops on the normal symbol display section 22e include at least a normal win symbol that is displayed as a fixed stop in the case of a normal win, and a normal loss symbol that is displayed as a fixed stop in the case of a normal loss. In the gaming machine 10, when a normal win lottery is won, a normal win game is generated (given) after the normal game of the normal win is ended after the normal game of the normal win. In addition, the information display panel 22 includes a normal hold display section 22f. The normal hold display section 22f recognizably displays the number of normal games (hereinafter referred to as the normal hold number) whose execution is held because the start condition is satisfied but the execution condition is not yet satisfied.

[0018] In addition, for example, the information display panel 22 may have a right-hit display section that notifies the player of the strength of the ball being shot. The information display panel 22 may also have a round number display section that displays the number of rounds played during a jackpot game. These multiple display sections do not need to be provided on the same member, and may be provided separately on different members.

[0019] The gaming machine 10 is provided with a center frame 23 with various decorations at approximately the center of the play area 21 of the game board 20. The center frame 23 is provided with an opening 23a. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a performance display device 25. For example, the performance display device 25 may be a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The performance display device 25 is provided with a display area 25r in which an image is displayed. The performance display device 25 is attached to the game board 20 so that the player can view the display area 25r through the opening 23a of the center frame 23. The performance display device 25 executes a performance (hereinafter, referred to as a display performance) that displays an image imitating a predetermined character or letter. In this embodiment, the performance display device 25 functions as a performance execution means that executes a performance.

[0020] The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first start opening 26. The first start opening 26 is located below the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The first start opening 26 is always open so that a gaming ball can be inserted. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first start sensor SE1 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the first start opening 26. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered gaming ball to the back side of the gaming board 20 (discharges the gaming ball from the gaming board 20 to the outside) is connected to the first start opening 26, and the first start sensor SE1 is disposed in the ball passage. When the gaming ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, the start condition of the first special game may be established, and the payout condition of the prize ball is established. When the gaming ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, three gaming balls are awarded as prize balls. In this embodiment, the first special game can be executed when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 26.

[0021] The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second start hole 27 different from the first start hole 26. The second start hole 27 is located in the lower right of the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second start sensor SE2 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the second start hole 27. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered gaming ball to the back side of the game board 20 is connected to the second start hole 27, and the second start sensor SE2 is disposed in the ball passage. When the gaming ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, the start condition of the second special game may be established and the payout condition of the prize ball is established. When the gaming ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, one gaming ball is awarded as a prize ball. In this way, in this embodiment, the second special game is configured to be able to be executed when the gaming ball enters the second start hole 27. The second starting hole 27 has a first variable member 28 as an opening / closing member. The first variable member 28 can be moved between an open state in which it is easy or possible to allow the game ball to enter the second starting hole 27, and a closed state in which it is difficult (or impossible) to allow the game ball to enter the second starting hole 27. The first variable member 28 operates by receiving power from a first actuator A1 (shown in FIG. 6). Hereinafter, the open state of the first variable member 28 may be referred to as "the second starting hole 27 is opened," and the closed state of the first variable member 28 may be referred to as "the second starting hole 27 is closed." In this way, the gaming machine 10 is provided with a starting hole through which the game ball can enter. The starting hole in the gaming machine 10 includes a first starting hole and a second starting hole having an opening / closing member.

[0022] In this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start hole 26 and the start conditions of the first special game are established, a big win lottery is held, but a small win lottery is not held. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when a game ball enters the second start hole 27 and the start conditions of the second special game are established, a big win lottery is held, and when the big win lottery is not won, a small win lottery is held. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, a small win lottery may be held when a game ball enters at least the second start hole out of the first and second start holes.

[0023] The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first large prize opening 29. The first large prize opening 29 is located to the right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first count sensor SE3 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the first large prize opening 29. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered gaming ball to the back side of the gaming board 20 is connected to the first large prize opening 29, and the first count sensor SE3 is disposed in the ball passage. When the gaming ball is detected by the first count sensor SE3, the payout condition of the prize ball is established. When the gaming ball is detected by the first count sensor SE3 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, 15 gaming balls are awarded as prize balls. The first large prize opening 29 has a second variable member 30. The second variable member 30 is operable between an open state in which the game ball can enter the first large prize opening 29 and a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the first large prize opening 29. The second variable member 30 operates by receiving power from a second actuator A2 (shown in FIG. 6). When the second variable member 30 is in the open state, the game ball is permitted to enter the first large prize opening 29. When the second variable member 30 is in the closed state, the game ball is not permitted to enter the first large prize opening 29. Hereinafter, the open state of the second variable member 30 may be referred to as "the first large prize opening 29 is opened," and the closed state of the second variable member 30 may be referred to as "the first large prize opening 29 is closed."

[0024] The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second large prize opening 31. The second large prize opening 31 is located in the lower right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second count sensor SE4 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the second large prize opening 31. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered gaming ball to the back side of the gaming board 20 is connected to the second large prize opening 31, and the second count sensor SE4 is disposed in the ball passage. When the gaming ball is detected by the second count sensor SE4, the payout condition of the prize ball is established. When the gaming ball is detected by the second count sensor SE4 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, 15 gaming balls are awarded as prize balls. The second large prize opening 31 has a third variable member 32. The third variable member 32 is operable between an open state in which the game ball can enter the second large prize opening 31 and a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the second large prize opening 31. The third variable member 32 operates by receiving power from a third actuator A3 (shown in FIG. 6). When the third variable member 32 is in the open state, the game ball is permitted to enter the second large prize opening 31. When the third variable member 32 is in the closed state, the game ball is not permitted to enter the second large prize opening 31. Hereinafter, the open state of the third variable member 32 may be referred to as "the second large prize opening 31 is opened," and the closed state of the third variable member 32 may be referred to as "the second large prize opening 31 is closed."

[0025] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a gate 33. The gate 33 is located to the right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The gate 33 has a gate opening that is always open so that a gaming ball can enter the gate. A gate sensor SE5 (shown in FIG. 6) is disposed at the gate opening to detect a gaming ball that enters and passes through the gate. When a gaming ball is detected by the gate sensor SE5, a condition for starting a normal game may be established.

[0026] The gaming machine 10 includes a first general winning opening 34 and a second general winning opening 35. The first general winning opening 34 is located at the lower left of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The second general winning opening 35 is located at the lower right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The first general winning opening 34 and the second general winning opening 35 are always open so that gaming balls can enter the openings. The gaming machine 10 includes a first general sensor SE6 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the first general winning opening 34, and a second general sensor SE7 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the second general winning opening 35. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered gaming ball to the back side of the gaming board 20 is connected to the first general winning opening 34, and the first general sensor SE6 is disposed in the ball passage. When a gaming ball is detected by the first general sensor SE6, the payout condition for prize balls is met. When a gaming ball is detected by the first general sensor SE6 and the payout condition for prize balls is met, four gaming balls are awarded as prize balls. When a gaming ball is detected by the second general sensor SE7, the payout condition for prize balls is met. When a gaming ball is detected by the second general sensor SE7 and the payout condition for prize balls is met, four gaming balls are awarded as prize balls. The general winning ports 34 and 35 are also called normal winning ports.

[0027] The gaming machine 10 is provided with an outlet 36. In this embodiment, gaming balls that do not enter the first start opening 26, the second start opening 27, the first large prize opening 29, the second large prize opening 31, the first general prize opening 34, or the second general prize opening 35 are discharged from the outlet 36 to the outside of the machine (discharged from the gaming board 20 to the outside). The gaming machine 10 is provided with game components, such as nails (gaming nails) and windmills, that change the behavior of the gaming balls flowing down the gaming area 21.

[0028] The gaming machine 10 includes a passage member 37 and a passage member 38. The passage member 37 and the passage member 38 are located in the lower right of the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The second start opening 27 is located in the passage member 37. The first variable member 28 of the second start opening 27 is a member that constitutes the upper surface of the passage member 37. The second large winning opening 31 is located in the passage member 37. The third variable member 32 of the second large winning opening 31 is a member that constitutes the upper surface of the passage member 37. In the game area 21, the passage member 38 is disposed such that the distance between the lower surface of the passage member 38 and the upper surface of the passage member 37 is longer than the diameter of the game ball. In the game area 21, the passage member 37 and the passage member 38 form a flow-down passage 39. In the flow-down passage 39, the second start opening 27 is located upstream of the second large winning opening 31. In the flow-down passage 39, all game balls that do not enter the second starting hole 27 are guided to the second large winning hole 31. When a game ball enters through a ball entry hole 39a at the most upstream part of the flow-down passage 39 and does not enter either the second starting hole 27 or the second large winning hole 31, the game ball that entered through the ball entry hole 39a is discharged from a discharge hole 39b at the most downstream part of the flow-down passage 39.

[0029] The passage member 38 has a plurality of first protrusions 38a on the lower surface of the passage member 38 at a location where the first variable member 28 of the second starting port 27 and the flow-down passage 39 are formed. When a game ball flowing down (passing) the flow-down passage 39 collides with the first protrusions 38a, the flow-down speed (passing speed) of the game ball decreases. That is, the first protrusions 38a have a function of suppressing the flow-down speed of the game ball flowing down the upper surface of the first variable member 28 of the second starting port 27. In addition, the passage member 38 has a plurality of second protrusions 38b on the lower surface of the passage member 38 at a location where the third variable member 32 of the second large winning port 31 and the flow-down passage 39 are formed. When a game ball flowing down the flow-down passage 39 collides with the second protrusions 38b, the flow-down speed of the game ball decreases. In other words, the second protrusion 38b has the function of suppressing the flow speed of the game ball flowing down the upper surface of the third variable member 32 of the second large winning opening 31.

[0030] Next, the path along which the gaming ball flows in this embodiment will be described. The gaming machine 10 configured as described above has a plurality of paths through which the gaming balls flow down in the gaming area 21 according to the launch strength of the gaming balls. The paths through which the gaming balls flow down can also be understood as the areas through which the gaming balls flow down. The plurality of paths include a first path R1 that passes through the left side of the center frame 23 (performance display device 25) to the outlet 36, and a second path R2 that passes through the right side of the center frame 23 (performance display device 25) to the outlet 36. The first path R1 and the second path R2 may overlap in part or may not overlap in whole. In the following description, the area located to the left of the center line CL that bisects the gaming area 21 into left and right sides when the gaming board 20 is viewed from the front is referred to as the left area R1a, and the area located to the right of the center line CL is referred to as the right area R2a. The path flowing down the left region R1a corresponds to the first path R1, and the path flowing down the right region R2a corresponds to the second path R2.

[0031] By adjusting the launch strength of the game ball by operating the launch handle 16, the player can hit the game ball into the left area R1a or the right area R2a, and make the game ball enter the first start hole 26, the second start hole 27, the first large prize hole 29, the second large prize hole 31, the gate 33, the first general prize hole 34, and the second general prize hole 35. Specifically, when the game ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to be weak (so-called left hit), the game ball is likely to be guided down to the left area R1a and may enter the first start hole 26 or the first general prize hole 34. On the other hand, when the game ball is shot with a strong shooting strength (so-called right hit), the game ball is likely to flow down and guided to the right area R2a, and may enter the second start hole 27, the first large prize hole 29, the second large prize hole 31, the gate 33, and the second general prize hole 35. Therefore, it can be said that the first start hole 26 and the first general prize hole 34 are on the first route R1, and the second start hole 27, the first large prize hole 29, the second large prize hole 31, the gate 33, and the second general prize hole 35 are on the second route R2.

[0032] In this embodiment, the game ball is less likely to enter the second start opening 27, the first large prize opening 29, the second large prize opening 31, the gate 33, or the second general prize opening 35 when it flows down the first route R1 than when it flows down the second route R2. In this embodiment, the game ball is less likely to enter the first start opening 26 or the first general prize opening 34 when it flows down the second route R2 than when it flows down the first route R1. In the following description, the game ball is sometimes referred to as "left hit" when it is launched with a launch strength that allows the game ball to flow down the first route R1. Also, the game ball is sometimes referred to as "right hit" when it is launched with a launch strength that allows the game ball to flow down the second route R2.

[0033] In the right area R2a, the gate 33 is disposed upstream of the second starting hole 27, the first large prize hole 29, the second large prize hole 31, and the second general prize hole 35. In the right area R2a, the first large prize hole 29 is disposed upstream of the second starting hole 27, the second large prize hole 31, and the second general prize hole 35. In the right area R2a, the second starting hole 27 is disposed upstream of the second large prize hole 31.

[0034] Next, the gaming state of the gaming machine 10 will be described. The gaming machine 10 has a low probability state and a high probability state as gaming states with different jackpot probabilities. The jackpot probability is the probability of winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery conducted as an internal lottery. The high probability state is a gaming state with a higher jackpot probability than the low probability state. In the high probability state, the possibility of winning a jackpot is higher than in the low probability state. The high probability state is what is called a "probability variable state (high probability state)." In contrast, the low probability state is what is called a "non-probability variable state (non-high probability state)."

[0035] As shown in FIG. 3, in the gaming machine 10, the winning probability of the big win lottery triggered by the ball entering the first starting hole 26 and the winning probability of the big win lottery triggered by the ball entering the second starting hole 27 are the same ("1 / 300") when both are in a low probability state. Similarly, the winning probability of the big win lottery triggered by the ball entering the first starting hole 26 and the winning probability of the big win lottery triggered by the ball entering the second starting hole 27 are the same ("10 / 300") when both are in a high probability state. In the gaming machine 10, the probability of a small win (winning probability of the small win lottery) does not differ depending on whether the state is a low probability state or a high probability state. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, a small win lottery is not triggered by the ball entering the first starting hole 26. In the gaming machine 10, the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole 27 is "289 / 300." In this way, the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole in a non-probability variable state is the same as the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole in a probability variable state.

[0036] In addition, when a game ball enters the first starting hole 26 in a non-probability variable state, a lottery for a big win is held with a probability of 1 / 300, and a lottery for a small win is not held, so the probability of a loss is 299 / 300. In addition, when a game ball enters the first starting hole 26 in a probability variable state, a lottery for a big win is held with a probability of 10 / 300, and a lottery for a small win is not held, so the probability of a loss is 290 / 300. On the other hand, when a game ball enters the second starting hole 27 in a non-probability variable state, a lottery for a big win is held with a probability of 1 / 300, and a lottery for a small win is held with a probability of 289 / 300, so the probability of a loss is 10 / 300. In addition, when a game ball enters the second starting hole 27 during a probability variable state, a lottery for a big win is drawn with a probability of 10 / 300, and a lottery for a small win is drawn with a probability of 289 / 300, so the probability of losing is 1 / 300. As described above, when a game ball enters the second starting hole 27, the probability of the second special game being a small win is higher than the probability of the second special game being a big win, regardless of whether the game is in a non-probability variable state or a probability variable state.

[0037] The gaming machine 10 has a non-variation shortening state and a variation shortening state as game states in which the variation time of at least the second special game of the first special game and the second special game is different. The variation shortening state is a game state in which the variation time of at least the second special game of the first special game and the second special game is shorter (or is more likely to be shorter) than in the non-variation shortening state. Note that "the variation time of at least the second special game is shorter (or is more likely to be shorter)" does not necessarily mean that the variation time of the second special game is always shorter, but may be shorter or longer, and it is intended that the average time of the variation time of the second special game is shorter. Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, when the variation shortening state is in effect, the variation time of both the first special game and the second special game is shorter (or is more likely to be shorter) than in the non-variation shortening state. In addition, when the variation shortening state is in effect, it may also be said that the variation shortening function is activated. In addition, the non-variable shortening state may also be referred to as a state in which the variable shortening function is not operating (or is inactive).

[0038] In the gaming machine 10, the fluctuation time of the second special game when controlled to the non-variation shortening state exceeds a predetermined fluctuation time (for example, 4 minutes or 8 minutes). Specifically, in this embodiment, the fluctuation time of the second special game when controlled to the non-variation shortening state is 10 minutes at least in the case of a small win and a miss. For example, the fluctuation time of the second special game when controlled to the non-variation shortening state may not exceed the predetermined fluctuation time (for example, 1 minute) only in the case of a big win. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the fluctuation time of the second special game when controlled to the variation shortening state does not exceed the predetermined fluctuation time. Therefore, in this embodiment, the fluctuation time of the second special game when the second special game is executed in the case of a small win when controlled to the variation shortening state is shorter than the fluctuation time of the second special game when the second special game is executed in the case of a small win when controlled to the non-variation shortening state.

[0039] The gaming machine 10 has a non-open extended state and an open extended state as game states in which the opening time of the first variable member 28 when a normal winning game is generated is different. The open extended state is a game state in which the opening time of the first variable member 28 when a normal winning game is generated is longer than the non-open extended state. In the open extended state, the advantage of the game ball entering the second starting hole 27 is higher than the non-open extended state. That is, the open extended state is more advantageous in opening and closing the first variable member 28 as an opening and closing member than the non-open extended state. Incidentally, as a method for varying the opening time of the first variable member 28 when a normal winning game is generated, there are a method for varying the number of times the first variable member 28 is in the open state in one normal winning game, a method for varying the opening time when the first variable member 28 is in the open state, and a method for varying the total opening time when the first variable member 28 is in the open state in one normal winning game. The open extension state may be referred to as a state in which the open extension function is activated. The non-open extension state may be referred to as a state in which the open extension function is not activated (or is not activated).

[0040] In addition, the game state may be configured to be controllable to game states with different winning probabilities in the normal winning lottery. For example, a high normal winning probability state and a low normal winning probability state may be configured to be controllable as game states, and the high normal winning probability state may be a game state in which the probability of winning a normal winning lottery is higher than that of the low normal winning probability state. Also, the game state may be configured to be controlled to the high normal winning probability state when controlled to the open extension state, and to be controlled to the low normal winning probability state when controlled to the non-open extension state.

[0041] In addition, the game state may be configured to be controllable with different variation times of the normal game. For example, a normal shortened state and a non-normal shortened state may be configured to be controllable as game states, and the normal shortened state may be a game state in which the variation time of the normal game is more likely to be short than the non-normal shortened state. Note that "the variation time of the normal game is more likely to be short" does not necessarily mean that the variation time of the normal game is always short, but may be short or long, and is intended to mean that the average variation time of the normal game is shortened.

[0042] The game states controlled in the gaming machine 10 include "low probability state, non-variable time shortening state, non-opening extended state", "low probability state, variable time shortening state, open extended state", "high probability state, variable time shortening state, open extended state", and "high probability state, variable time shortening state, non-opening extended state". In the following description, "game state controlled to low probability state, non-variable time shortening state, non-opening extended state" may be referred to as "normal low probability state", and "game state controlled to low probability state, variable time shortening state, open extended state" may be referred to as "specific low probability state". In addition, in the following description, "game state controlled to high probability state, variable time shortening state, open extended state" may be referred to as "specific high probability state", and "game state controlled to high probability state, variable time shortening state, non-opening extended state" may be referred to as "special state". That is, in this embodiment, the game states include a normal low probability state, a specific low probability state, a specific high probability state, and a special state. The special state in this embodiment is also called a small hit rush (small hit RUSH) or a small hit rush state. In this embodiment, the normal low probability state corresponds to the normal state, and the special state corresponds to the first game state. Also, in this embodiment, at least one of the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state corresponds to the second game state. The second game state in this embodiment can also be said to be a game state controlled to the extended opening state.

[0043] Next, the big win in the gaming machine 10 will be described. The gaming machine 10 has a plurality of types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. The plurality of types of jackpot symbols are classified into a first jackpot symbol, a second jackpot symbol, and a third jackpot symbol. A type of jackpot is determined for each of the plurality of types of jackpot symbols. Specifically, the first jackpot symbol is determined to be a first jackpot, the second jackpot symbol is determined to be a second jackpot, and the third jackpot symbol is determined to be a third jackpot. Hereinafter, a jackpot game based on a first jackpot is referred to as a "first jackpot game", a jackpot game based on a second jackpot is referred to as a "second jackpot game", and a jackpot game based on a third jackpot is referred to as a "third jackpot game". In the gaming machine 10, when the jackpot lottery is won and the first jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the winning, the first jackpot game is then generated (awarded). That is, in the gaming machine 10, if the jackpot lottery is won and the jackpot symbol is the first jackpot symbol, the first jackpot game is generated after the special game that is the first jackpot ends. In this embodiment, the first jackpot corresponds to the special win, and the first jackpot game corresponds to the special win game. In the gaming machine 10, when the jackpot lottery is won and the second jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the winning, the second jackpot game is then generated. That is, in the gaming machine 10, if the jackpot lottery is won and the jackpot symbol is the second jackpot symbol, the second jackpot game is generated after the special game resulting in the second jackpot is completed. In the gaming machine 10, if the jackpot lottery is won and the third jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the win, the third jackpot game is then generated. That is, in the gaming machine 10, if the jackpot lottery is won and the jackpot symbol is the third jackpot symbol, the third jackpot game is generated after the special game resulting in the third jackpot is completed.

[0044] In the jackpot game, first, an opening performance is performed for a predetermined opening period to notify the start of the jackpot game. In the jackpot game, after the opening performance is finished, a round game is performed in which the first large prize winning hole 29 is opened. The round game is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. In one round game, the first large prize winning hole 29 is opened until a first open game ending condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enters the hole, or a second open game ending condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed, is met. In the round game, a round performance is performed. Then, in the jackpot game, when the final round game is finished, an ending performance is performed for a predetermined ending period to notify the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game ends with the end of the ending performance.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 4, the number of rounds is determined for each jackpot (shown as the number of rounds in FIG. 4). Specifically, the number of rounds is determined as "10 times" for the first jackpot. Also, the number of rounds is determined as "4 times" for the second and third jackpots.

[0046] For each jackpot, a game state after the jackpot game is completed is determined. Specifically, for the first jackpot, it is determined that the game state after the jackpot game is completed is controlled to a special state. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the special state, the special state ends when the end condition of the special state is established. The end condition of the special state includes an end condition that is established when the jackpot lottery is won. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the special state, if a jackpot game occurs, the special state ends. Note that in the gaming machine 10, the special state does not end even if the small jackpot lottery is won when being controlled to the special state.

[0047] For the second jackpot, it is specified that the game state after the jackpot game ends is controlled to a specific high probability state. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the specific high probability state, if the end condition of the specific high probability state is met, the specific high probability state ends. The end condition of the specific high probability state includes an end condition that is met when a jackpot lottery is won. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the specific high probability state, if a jackpot game occurs, the specific high probability state ends. Note that in the gaming machine 10, the specific high probability state does not end even if a small jackpot lottery is won while the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the specific high probability state.

[0048] For the third jackpot, it is specified that the game state after the jackpot game ends is controlled to a specific low probability state. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the specific low probability state, if the end condition of the specific low probability state is established, the specific low probability state ends. The end condition of the specific low probability state includes an end condition that is established when the jackpot lottery is won. In the gaming machine 10, if a jackpot game occurs after being controlled to the specific low probability state, the specific low probability state ends. Note that in the gaming machine 10, even if the small jackpot lottery is won while being controlled to the specific low probability state, the specific low probability state does not end. In addition, the end condition of the specific low probability state includes an end condition that is established when 100 special games are completed without a jackpot game being generated after the third jackpot game ends. In the gaming machine 10, if 100 special games are completed without a jackpot game being generated after the third jackpot game ends, the specific low probability state ends and the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal low probability state.

[0049] Next, the small win in the gaming machine 10 will be described. In a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened, and a game ball is allowed to enter the second large winning opening 31. In a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened in a predetermined opening mode. In a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened in a predetermined opening mode until a first open game end condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enters the second large winning opening 31, or a second open game end condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed, is met. For example, in a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened in an opening mode in which it is opened for 0.6 seconds, closed for 0.5 seconds, and then opened for 1.2 seconds. In this way, in a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened at least once for a time that makes it easy to allow a game ball to enter the second large winning opening 31. As described above, in a big win game, the first large prize opening 29 is opened to allow a game ball to enter the first large prize opening 29, while in a small win game, the second large prize opening 31 is opened to allow a game ball to enter the second large prize opening 31.

[0050] The display effects that the effect display device 25 in this embodiment can execute include an effect pattern change game (hereinafter, referred to as an effect game) in which effect patterns (hereinafter, referred to as effect patterns) are displayed in a variable manner in multiple rows, and a combination of effect patterns is finally displayed as a definite stop. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute an effect game using effect patterns. The effect patterns are patterns decorated with characters, patterns, and the like, and are also called "decorative patterns" or "decorative patterns." The effect game is executed by displaying (scrolling) the first, second, and third pattern rows in a variable manner in the vertical direction. The effect patterns in the first row are so-called first patterns, the effect patterns in the second row are so-called second patterns, and the effect patterns in the third row are so-called third patterns. In the following description, the "first column" is referred to as the "left column" and the "first symbol" is referred to as the "left symbol", the "second column" is referred to as the "middle column" and the "second symbol" is referred to as the "middle symbol", and the "third column" is referred to as the "right column" and the "third symbol" is referred to as the "right symbol". In this embodiment, in principle, in each column, the performance symbols imitating the numbers [1] to [8] are displayed in a predetermined order.

[0051] The performance game is performed in conjunction with the special game. That is, in this embodiment, the game is configured to be able to execute a performance game corresponding to the symbol variation game being executed. Specifically, the performance game is started with the start of the special game and is ended with the end of the special game. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute a performance game during the execution of the special game. In the performance game, a combination of performance symbols corresponding to the special symbols that are displayed as fixed and stopped in the corresponding special game is displayed as fixed and stopped. When a big win symbol is displayed as fixed and stopped in the special game, the big win symbol combination is displayed as fixed and stopped in the performance game. For example, the big win symbol combination is a symbol combination such as

[0777] where the performance symbols of all columns are the same. Also, when a small win symbol is displayed as fixed and stopped in the special game, the small win symbol combination is displayed as fixed and stopped in the performance game. For example, the small win symbol combination is a symbol combination such as

[0123] or

[0426] where the performance symbols of at least some columns are different from the performance symbols of other columns. In addition, when a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game, a losing symbol combination is displayed as a fixed stop in the performance game. For example, a losing symbol combination is a symbol combination in which the performance symbols of at least some columns are different from the performance symbols of other columns, such as

[0323] or

[0426] . Incidentally, a small winning symbol combination may be a symbol combination that is partially or entirely common to the losing symbol combination. For example, when a symbol combination common to a small winning symbol combination and a losing symbol combination is displayed as a fixed stop in the performance game, it is difficult to identify whether it is a small winning or a losing symbol from the performance symbol. On the other hand, a small winning symbol combination may be a symbol combination different from the losing symbol combination. In this case, it is easy to identify whether it is a small winning or a losing symbol from the performance symbol. Incidentally, in the performance game, the performance symbol is displayed as a fixed stop once before being displayed as a fixed stop. In this specification, the term "temporarily stopped display" refers to a state that is different from a fixed stopped display, such as a "shaking fluctuation state."

[0052] In the performance game, the display mode of the performance symbols may become a reach mode (a reach is formed), and a reach performance (also simply called a reach) may be performed. The reach mode is a state in which performance symbols imitating the same numbers are temporarily displayed in a specific column (for example, the left column and the right column) among multiple columns, and performance symbols in a column other than the specific column (for example, the middle column) are continuously displayed in a variable manner. The reach performance may include multiple types of reach performances in which the characters that appear and the actions of the performance symbols are different. For example, the reach performance includes a normal reach performance and a super reach performance that is performed after the start of the normal reach performance. In addition, when the super reach performance is performed during the execution of the special game, the expectation of a big win may be higher than when only the normal reach performance is performed. The reach performance in this embodiment is performed during the execution of the special game. In this way, in this embodiment, the performance includes a reach performance.

[0053] In addition, in the gaming machine 10, a specific symbol changing game (hereinafter, referred to as a specific game) is executed in which a specific symbol is displayed variably in the effect display device 25 separately from the effect game, and the specific symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute a specific game using a specific symbol. The specific game in this embodiment is executed by changing a line of specific symbols. The specific game includes a first specific symbol changing game (hereinafter, referred to as a first specific game) corresponding to a first special game being executed, and a second specific symbol changing game (hereinafter, referred to as a second specific game) corresponding to a second special game being executed. Specifically, the first specific game is started with the start of the first special game, and is ended with the end of the first special game. Similarly, the second specific game is started with the start of the second special game, and is ended with the end of the second special game. Then, in the specific game, a specific symbol corresponding to the special symbol displayed as a fixed stop in the special game is displayed as a fixed stop. For example, when a big win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a special game, a big win symbol (e.g., [7]) with a specific symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a specific game. When a small win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a special game, a small win symbol (e.g., [1]) with a specific symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a specific game. When a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a special game, a losing symbol (e.g., [4]) with a specific symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a specific game. The specific symbol may be, for example, a symbol imitating a predetermined figure or a symbol imitating a predetermined letter.

[0054] As shown in Fig. 5(a) and Fig. 5(b), in the effect display device 25, a specific symbol related to a first specific game is displayed in a first specific area Z1, and the first specific game is executed by the specific symbol related to the first specific game. Similarly, in the effect display device 25, a specific symbol related to a second specific game is displayed in a second specific area Z2, and the second specific game is executed by the specific symbol related to the first specific game. The specific symbol related to the first specific game is also referred to as a fourth symbol. The specific symbol related to the second specific game is also referred to as a fifth symbol.

[0055] In this way, in the gaming machine 10, the effect game and the specific game are executed in the effect display device 25. The effect game is executed in response to either the first special game or the second special game. Specifically, in the gaming machine 10, the effect game is executed in response to either the first special game or the second special game depending on the gaming state. In the gaming machine 10, when in a normal low probability state, the effect game corresponding to the first special game is executed. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, when in any of the gaming states of the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state, the effect game corresponding to the second special game is executed. Note that the specific game is configured to be executed in response to either the first special game or the second special game regardless of the gaming state.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 5(b), in the special state, the effect display device 25 starts the effect game with the start of the second special game, and each effect symbol is displayed in a variable manner. In FIG. 5(b), the first special game is not executed, while the second special game is executed. Incidentally, in the special state, the effect display device 25 does not start the effect game even if the first special game is started. In other words, in the special state, when the first special game and the second special game are executed simultaneously, the effect game corresponding to the first special game is not executed, and the effect game corresponding to the second special game is executed. In the above, the effect game in the special state is exemplified, but the effect game in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state has the same configuration. In this way, in the special state, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are executed simultaneously, the effect game corresponding to the first special game being executed is not executed, while the effect game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed.

[0057] On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, in the normal low probability state, the presentation game corresponding to the first special game is executed, and the presentation game corresponding to the second special game is not executed. In other words, in the normal low probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the second special game is not executed, and the presentation game corresponding to the first special game is executed. In this way, in the normal low probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the second special game being executed is not executed, while the presentation game corresponding to the first special game being executed is executed.

[0058] FIG. 5(b) shows an example of the display contents of the effect display device 25 when the first special game is not being executed while the second special game is being executed in the special state. As shown in FIG. 5(b), when the special state is in a state where the first special game is not being executed, the second special game is executed in the second specific area Z2, and an effect game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed. At this time, since the first special game is not being executed, the specific symbols are continuously displayed in a fixed stop state in the first specific area Z1. Incidentally, in the special state, when the first special game is executed in the effect display device 25, the first special game is executed in the first specific area Z1, but the effect game corresponding to the first special game being executed is not executed. Here, a specific game in a special state has been exemplified, but in any of the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state, the effect display device 25 executes the first specific game in the first specific area Z1 while the first special game is being executed, and executes the second specific game in the second specific area Z2 while the second special game is being executed. In this embodiment, in the special state, the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the first specific game corresponding to the first special game being executed is executed, and the second specific game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed.

[0059] Next, the electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 6, the gaming machine 10 includes a main board 40 as a main control unit. The main board 40 performs various processes and outputs control information such as a control signal (control command) according to the results of the processes. The gaming machine 10 includes a sub-board 41 as a sub-control unit. The sub-board 41 performs a predetermined process based on the control information output by the main board 40. For example, the sub-board 41 performs a process for executing a light-emitting effect by the decorative lamp 17, a sound effect by the speaker 18, and a display effect by the effect display device 25. The main board 40 and the sub-board 41 are disposed on the back side of the gaming board 20. The main board 40 and the sub-board 41 are included in the gaming board unit. In the gaming machine 10, the main board 40 and the sub-board 41 can be said to be disposed inside the machine. The main board 40 is connected to the sub-board 41.

[0060] First, the main board 40 will be described. The main board 40 includes a main CPU 40a, a main ROM 40b, and a main RAM 40c. The main CPU 40a executes a control program (main control program) in the main ROM 40b to perform various processes.

[0061] The main ROM 40b stores a main control program, a lottery table and a judgment value used in a predetermined lottery. For example, the main ROM 40b stores a jackpot judgment value used in a jackpot lottery. The jackpot judgment value includes a high probability jackpot judgment value and a common jackpot judgment value. In the gaming machine 10, only the common jackpot judgment value is used in the jackpot lottery when the probability is low, while both the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value are used in the jackpot lottery when the probability is high. For example, the main ROM 40b stores a jackpot pattern judgment value used to determine a jackpot pattern when a jackpot lottery is won. The jackpot pattern judgment value includes a first jackpot pattern judgment value, a second jackpot pattern judgment value, and a third jackpot pattern judgment value. Although the details will be described later, in the gaming machine 10, when the value of the acquired random number in determining the jackpot symbol matches the first jackpot symbol determination value, the first jackpot is determined as the type of jackpot. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, when the value of the acquired random number in determining the jackpot symbol matches the second jackpot symbol determination value, the second jackpot is determined as the type of jackpot. Also, in the gaming machine 10, when the value of the acquired random number in determining the jackpot symbol matches the third jackpot symbol determination value, the third jackpot is determined as the type of jackpot. In addition, the main ROM 40b stores the effect determination value used in the effect lottery. In the effect lottery, a decision is made as to whether to execute a reach effect. For this reason, the effect lottery can also be called a reach lottery.

[0062] In addition, for example, the main ROM 40b stores a plurality of types of fluctuation patterns. The plurality of types of fluctuation patterns are associated with a fluctuation time (variation time of the special game) from the start of the special game to the end of the special game. The fluctuation pattern can be said to be information capable of identifying the fluctuation time of the special game. The fluctuation pattern may be information capable of identifying a part or all of the performance contents of the performance game performed from the start of the special game to the end of the special game. The fluctuation patterns include, for example, a big win fluctuation pattern, a small win fluctuation pattern, and a miss fluctuation pattern. The big win fluctuation pattern is associated with a performance content of the performance game in which a big win pattern is finally displayed as a fixed stop after a reach performance. The small win fluctuation pattern is associated with a performance content of the performance game in which a small win pattern is finally displayed as a fixed stop after a reach performance. In addition, the small win fluctuation pattern may have a fluctuation pattern associated with a performance content of the performance game in which a miss pattern combination is finally displayed as a fixed stop after a reach performance. The loss variation pattern includes a variation pattern without a loss reach and a variation pattern with a loss reach. The loss-without-reach variation pattern is associated with a performance content of a performance game in which a loss pattern is finally displayed as a fixed stop without going through a reach performance. The loss-with-reach variation pattern is associated with a performance content of a performance game in which a loss pattern combination is finally displayed as a fixed stop after going through a reach performance.

[0063] There are two types of fluctuation patterns: a fluctuation pattern that can be determined in a fluctuation shortening state, and a fluctuation pattern that can be determined in a non-fluctuation shortening state. The fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a fluctuation shortening state and the fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a non-fluctuation shortening state are partially or entirely different. The fluctuation time determined in a fluctuation shortening state is shorter (or is often shorter) than the fluctuation time determined in a fluctuation pattern that can be determined in a non-fluctuation shortening state. In the gaming machine 10, the fluctuation shortening state is realized by determining a fluctuation pattern from a fluctuation pattern table in which one or more fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a fluctuation shortening state are defined. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, the non-fluctuation shortening state is realized by determining a fluctuation pattern from a fluctuation pattern table in which one or more fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a non-fluctuation shortening state are defined.

[0064] The variation patterns include a variation pattern for the first special game that can be determined when the first special game is executed, and a variation pattern for the second special game that can be determined when the second special game is executed. The variation patterns for the first special game and the variation patterns for the second special game are partially or entirely different. Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, the first special game may result in a big win, but may not result in a small win. Therefore, the gaming machine 10 does not have a small win variation pattern for the first special game.

[0065] As described above, the fluctuation patterns include a jackpot fluctuation pattern for the first special game when in a non-variation shortening state, a jackpot fluctuation pattern for the first special game when in a variation shortening state, a jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a non-variation shortening state, and a jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a variation shortening state. The fluctuation patterns also include a small jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a non-variation shortening state, and a small jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a variation shortening state. The fluctuation patterns also include a no-miss reach fluctuation pattern for the first special game when in a non-variation shortening state, and a no-miss reach fluctuation pattern for the first special game when in a variation shortening state. The fluctuation patterns also include a no-miss reach fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a non-variation shortening state, and a no-miss reach fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a variation shortening state. The variation patterns include a variation pattern with a miss-lead for the first special game in the non-shortened state and a variation pattern with a miss-lead for the first special game in the shortened state. The variation patterns also include a variation pattern with a miss-lead for the second special game in the non-shortened state and a variation pattern with a miss-lead for the second special game in the shortened state.

[0066] The main RAM 40c is configured to be capable of storing various information that is appropriately rewritten during operation of the gaming machine 10. Information stored in the main RAM 40c includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The main board 40 is configured to be capable of generating random numbers. For example, the random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers by mounting on the main board 40 a random number generating circuit that updates the value of the random numbers at predetermined cycles, or may be generated as software random numbers by the main CPU 40a updating the value of the random numbers at predetermined control cycles.

[0067] The main board 40 is connected to a first start sensor SE1, a second start sensor SE2, a first count sensor SE3, a second count sensor SE4, a gate sensor SE5, a first general sensor SE6, and a second general sensor SE7. The main CPU 40a is configured to be able to input detection signals output by the various sensors SE1 to SE7 via a port. The information display panel 22 is connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 40a is able to control the display contents of the information display panel 22 via a drive circuit. The main board 40 is connected to a first actuator A1, a second actuator A2, and a third actuator A3. The main CPU 40a is able to control the operation of the first actuator A1, the operation of the second actuator A2, and the operation of the third actuator A3 via a drive circuit.

[0068] Next, the sub-substrate 41 will be described. The sub-board 41 includes a sub-CPU 41a, a sub-ROM 41b, and a sub-RAM 41c. For example, the sub-CPU 41a executes a control program (sub-control program) of the sub-ROM 41b to perform various processes (for example, processes related to performance). The sub-ROM 41b stores the sub-control program, a lottery table used in the lottery, and a judgment value. The sub-ROM 41b stores display performance data capable of identifying the mode (content) of the display performance in the performance display device 25. The sub-ROM 41b stores light-emitting performance data capable of identifying the mode (content) of the light-emitting performance in the decorative lamp 17. The sub-ROM 41b stores sound performance data capable of identifying the mode (content) of the sound performance in the speaker 18.

[0069] The sub-RAM 41c is configured to be capable of storing various information that is appropriately rewritten during operation of the gaming machine 10. Information stored in the sub-RAM 41c includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The sub-board 41 is configured to be capable of generating random numbers. For example, the random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers by mounting on the sub-board 41 a random number generating circuit that updates the value of the random number at predetermined cycles, or may be generated as software random numbers by the sub-CPU 41a updating the value of the random number at predetermined control cycles.

[0070] The decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 are connected to the sub-substrate 41. The sub-CPU 41a is capable of controlling the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 via a drive circuit.

[0071] The control contents executed by the main CPU 40a and the sub CPU 41a will be described below. First, various processes executed by the main CPU 40a will be described. First, the special symbol input process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described.

[0072] In the special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a performs a first special symbol input process. In addition, when the main CPU 40a finishes the first special symbol input process, it performs a second special symbol input process. In the special symbol input process, when the main CPU 40a finishes the second special symbol input process, it ends the special symbol input process.

[0073] In the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a judges whether a game ball has entered the first start hole 26 based on whether a detection signal from the first start sensor SE1 has been input (hereinafter referred to as the first input judgment). If the judgment result of the first input judgment is negative, the main CPU 40a ends the first special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the judgment result of the first input judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment) (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved judgment). If the judgment result of the first reserved judgment is negative, the main CPU 40a ends the first special symbol input process.

[0074] If the result of the first reservation determination is positive, the main CPU 40a adds 1 to the first special reservation number to update it. Also, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated first special reservation number. The main CPU 40a stores control information (hereinafter, referred to as the first reservation number command) capable of identifying the updated first special reservation number in the output buffer. Also, if the result of the first reservation determination is positive, the main CPU 40a acquires random numbers generated in the main board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main RAM 40c. At this time, the main CPU 40a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the first special game in the main RAM 40c, the execution of the first special game is suspended until the execution condition of the first special game is established. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to suspend the execution of the first special game. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number by a predetermined method. For example, the random number may be a winning lottery random number used for a big win lottery and a small win lottery, a pattern random number used for determining a big win pattern, a variation pattern random number used for determining a variation pattern, a performance lottery random number used for a performance lottery (reach lottery), etc. After that, in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a performs a look-ahead command generation process. Then, in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a ends the look-ahead command generation process and ends the first special symbol input process. The look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process will be described later together with the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process described later.

[0075] In the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a judges whether a game ball has entered the second start hole 27 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start sensor SE2 (hereinafter referred to as the second input judgment). If the judgment result of the second input judgment is negative, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the judgment result of the second input judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a judges whether the second special reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment) (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved judgment). If the judgment result of the second reserved judgment is negative, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol input process.

[0076] If the result of the second reservation judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a adds 1 to the second special reservation number to update it. The main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated second special reservation number. The main CPU 40a also stores control information (hereinafter, referred to as the second reservation number command) capable of identifying the updated second special reservation number in the output buffer. If the result of the second reservation judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a acquires the random number generated in the main board 40, stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main RAM 40c, and ends the special symbol input process. At this time, the main CPU 40a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the second special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the second special game in the main RAM 40c, the execution of the second special game is suspended until the execution condition of the second special game is established. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to suspend the execution of the second special game. As described above, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to suspend the execution of the special game (symbol change game). After that, in the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a performs a look-ahead command generation process. Then, in the second special symbol input process, when the main CPU 40a finishes the look-ahead command generation process, the second special symbol input process ends.

[0077] Here, the read-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process and the read-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process will be described. First, the read-ahead command generated in the read-ahead command generation process will be described.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 7, the read-ahead commands generated in the read-ahead command generation process are classified into read-ahead commands SC1 to SC12. The read-ahead command SC1 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the common jackpot determination value, and the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the first jackpot pattern determination value. The read-ahead command SC2 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the common jackpot determination value, and the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the second jackpot pattern determination value. The read-ahead command SC3 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the common jackpot determination value, and the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the third jackpot pattern determination value. The read-ahead command SC4 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot determination value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the first jackpot pattern determination value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that matches the performance determination value. The look-ahead command SC5 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot judgment value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the first jackpot pattern judgment value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that does not match the performance judgment value (shown as not matching in FIG. 7). The look-ahead command SC6 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot judgment value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the second jackpot pattern judgment value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that matches the performance judgment value. The look-ahead command SC7 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot judgment value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the second jackpot pattern judgment value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that does not match the performance judgment value. The look-ahead command SC8 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot judgment value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the third jackpot pattern judgment value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that matches the performance judgment value. The look-ahead command SC9 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot judgment value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the third jackpot pattern judgment value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that does not match the performance judgment value.

[0079] The look-ahead command SC10 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that does not match any of the winning judgment values ​​and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that matches the performance judgment value. Note that "when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that does not match any of the winning judgment values" here differs between the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process and the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process. In the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, "when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that does not match any of the winning judgment values" means that the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the common jackpot judgment value, the high probability jackpot judgment value, and the small jackpot judgment value. On the other hand, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, "when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that does not match any of the winning judgment values" means that the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value. The look-ahead command SC11 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the winning judgment values, and the value of the performance lottery random number does not match the performance judgment value. The look-ahead command SC12 can be generated only in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process. The look-ahead command SC12 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small winning judgment value. In this embodiment, although a big winning lottery is performed in response to the ball entering the first starting hole 26, a small winning lottery is not performed in response to the ball entering the first starting hole 26. Therefore, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, no judgment is made as to whether the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small winning judgment value, and the look-ahead command SC12 is not generated.

[0080] In the look-ahead command generation process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command based on the value of the random number acquired in the special symbol input process and stores it in the output buffer. Specifically, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command based on the value of at least some of the random numbers among the winning lottery random number, the pattern random number, and the performance lottery random number acquired in the first special symbol input process and stores it in the output buffer. In addition, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command that can be specified as a look-ahead command corresponding to the first special game and stores it in the output buffer. In addition, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command that can be specified as the first special reserved number and stores it in the output buffer. For example, when the first special reserved number is "3" and a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC1 is generated in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special pattern input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command SC1 that can be identified as corresponding to the first special game and that can be identified as the first special reserved number being "3".

[0081] Similarly, in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command based on at least some of the random numbers among the winning random number, the pattern random number, and the performance random number obtained in the second special symbol input process, and stores the look-ahead command in the output buffer. Also, in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command that can be specified as a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game, and stores the look-ahead command in the output buffer. Also, in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command that can be specified as the second special reserved number, and stores the look-ahead command in the output buffer.

[0082] The following describes the control related to the generation of the look-ahead command in the look-ahead command generation process. In the following description, the "acquired random number" means the random number acquired in the first special symbol input process in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, and means the random number acquired in the second special symbol input process in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process.

[0083] In the look-ahead command generation process, if the acquired winning lottery random number value matches the common jackpot determination value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into one of the look-ahead commands SC1 to SC3. Specifically, if the acquired symbol random number value matches the first jackpot symbol determination value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into the look-ahead command SC1. If the acquired symbol random number value matches the second jackpot symbol determination value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into the look-ahead command SC2. If the acquired symbol random number value matches the third jackpot symbol determination value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into the look-ahead command SC3.

[0084] In the look-ahead command generation process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into one of the look-ahead commands SC4 to SC9 when the acquired winning random number value matches the high probability jackpot judgment value. In particular, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into one of the look-ahead commands SC4 and SC5 when the acquired symbol random number value matches the first jackpot symbol judgment value. Specifically, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into the look-ahead command SC4 when the acquired performance random number value matches the performance judgment value. On the other hand, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into the look-ahead command SC5 when the acquired performance random number value does not match the performance judgment value. In addition, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into one of the look-ahead commands SC6 and SC7 when the acquired symbol random number value matches the second jackpot symbol judgment value. Specifically, when the acquired value of the effect selection random number matches the effect judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC6. On the other hand, when the acquired value of the effect selection random number does not match the effect judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC7. Also, when the acquired value of the pattern random number matches the third jackpot pattern judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as either the look-ahead command SC8 or SC9. Specifically, when the acquired value of the effect selection random number matches the effect judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC8. On the other hand, when the acquired value of the effect selection random number does not match the effect judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC9.

[0085] In the look-ahead command generation process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into either of the look-ahead commands SC10 and SC11 when the acquired value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the winning judgment values. Specifically, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into either of the look-ahead commands SC10 and SC11 when the acquired value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value. On the other hand, in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into either of the look-ahead commands SC10 and SC11 when the acquired value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the common jackpot judgment value, the high probability jackpot judgment value, and the small jackpot judgment value. The main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified into the look-ahead command SC10 when the acquired value of the performance lottery random number matches the performance judgment value. On the other hand, when the acquired random number for random selection of effects does not match the effect judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC11. In the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, when the acquired random number for random selection of winning effects matches the small winning judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC12.

[0086] Next, the special symbol start process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described. In the special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not a winning game (big win game, small win game) is in progress. If a winning game is in progress, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol start process. On the other hand, if a winning game is not in progress, the main CPU 40a performs a first execution judgment. In the first execution judgment, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not a first special game is in progress. Then, if it is judged in the first execution judgment that the first special game is in progress, the main CPU 40a performs a second execution judgment. In the second execution judgment, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not a second special game is in progress. On the other hand, if it is judged in the first execution judgment that the first special game is not in progress, the main CPU 40a performs a first reservation judgment. In the first reservation judgment, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not the first special reservation number stored in the main RAM 40c is 1 or more. When the first reservation judgment determines that the first special reservation number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 40a performs a second execution judgment. On the other hand, when the first reservation judgment determines that the first special reservation number is 1 or more, the main CPU 40a performs a first special symbol start process related to the execution of the first special game. After performing the first special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a performs a second execution judgment.

[0087] When it is determined in the second execution judgment that the second special game is being executed, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol start processing. On the other hand, when it is determined in the second execution judgment that the second special game is not being executed, the main CPU 40a performs a second reservation judgment. In the second reservation judgment, the main CPU 40a determines whether the second special reservation number stored in the main RAM 40c is 1 or more. When it is determined in the second reservation judgment that the second special reservation number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol start processing. On the other hand, when it is determined in the second reservation judgment that the second special reservation number is 1 or more, the main CPU 40a performs a second special symbol start processing related to the execution of the second special game. After performing the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol start processing.

[0088] Here, the first special symbol start process will be explained. In the first special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a updates the first special reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c by subtracting 1. The main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated first special reserved number is displayed. The main CPU 40a also stores a first reserved number command capable of identifying the updated first special reserved number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 40a reads out the first stored random number information from the main RAM 40c among the random number information for the first special game. After reading out the first random number information, the main CPU 40a erases the first stored random number information from the main RAM 40c. Then, the main CPU 40a performs a jackpot lottery process by referring to information capable of identifying whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state (hereinafter referred to as a probability state flag) among the information capable of identifying the game state stored in the main RAM 40c.

[0089] In the jackpot lottery process, the main CPU 40a performs a jackpot lottery based on the value of the winning lottery random number that can be specified from the read random number information and the jackpot determination value stored in the main ROM 40b. If the probability is high, the main CPU 40a performs a jackpot lottery using the common jackpot determination value and the high probability jackpot determination value, while if the probability is low, the main CPU 40a performs a jackpot lottery using the common jackpot determination value. The main CPU 40a determines whether the value of the winning lottery random number matches the jackpot determination value, and performs a jackpot lottery. In this embodiment, if the value of the winning lottery random number matches the jackpot determination value, it is determined that the jackpot lottery has been won (a jackpot has been won), and if the value of the winning lottery random number does not match the jackpot determination value, it is determined that the jackpot lottery has not been won (no win). If the jackpot lottery is won, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot lottery process and executes the jackpot game process. On the other hand, if the big win lottery is not won, the main CPU 40a ends the big win lottery process and executes a loss game process.

[0090] Here, the big win game process in the first special symbol start process will be described. The main CPU 40a determines the jackpot symbol based on the symbol random number that can be specified from the read random number information and the jackpot symbol determination value stored in the main ROM 40b. When the value of the symbol random number matches the first jackpot symbol determination value, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot symbol to be the first jackpot symbol. When the value of the symbol random number matches the second jackpot symbol determination value, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot symbol to be the second jackpot symbol. When the value of the symbol random number matches the third jackpot symbol determination value, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot symbol to be the third jackpot symbol. In addition, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot fluctuation pattern based on the value of the fluctuation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information. At this time, the main CPU 40a refers to information (hereinafter referred to as a shortened state flag) that can identify whether the game state is a non-variation shortened state or a variation shortened state among the information that can identify the game state stored in the main RAM 40c. Then, if the game state is a non-variation shortened state, the main CPU 40a determines a jackpot variation pattern for the first special game when the game state is a non-variation shortened state. On the other hand, if the game state is a variation shortened state, the main CPU 40a determines a jackpot variation pattern for the first special game when the game state is a variation shortened state. As a result, the main CPU 40a determines a variation pattern with a shorter variation time (or is easier to determine a variation pattern with a shorter variation time) when the game state is a variation shortened state compared to when the game state is a non-variation shortened state. After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot game process, and stores the control information (hereinafter referred to as a symbol command) that can identify the determined special symbol and the control information (hereinafter referred to as a variation pattern command) that can identify the determined variation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the first special symbol start process.

[0091] Next, the losing game process in the first special symbol start process will be described. The main CPU 40a determines the losing symbol. The main CPU 40a also performs a lottery based on the value of the lottery random number that can be specified from the read random number information and the lottery judgment value stored in the main ROM 40b. The main CPU 40a determines that the lottery has been won when the lottery random number and the judgment value match, and determines that the lottery has not been won (not won) when the lottery random number and the judgment value do not match. The main CPU 40a determines a variation pattern with a losing reach when the lottery has been won based on the value of the variation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information, while determining a variation pattern without a losing reach when the lottery has not been won. At this time, the main CPU 40a refers to the shortened state flag. Then, when the lottery is in a non-variable shortened state and the lottery is won, the main CPU 40a determines a variation pattern with a losing reach for the first special game when the lottery is in a non-variable shortened state. On the other hand, when the main CPU 40a is in the non-variation shortening state and does not win the performance lottery, it determines a variation pattern without a losing reach for the first special game in the non-variation shortening state. Also, when the main CPU 40a is in the variation shortening state and wins the performance lottery, it determines a variation pattern with a losing reach for the first special game in the variation shortening state. On the other hand, when the main CPU 40a is in the variation shortening state and does not win the performance lottery, it determines a variation pattern without a losing reach for the first special game in the variation shortening state. As a result, when the main CPU 40a is in the variation shortening state, it determines a variation pattern with a shorter variation time (or it is easier to determine a variation pattern with a shorter variation time) compared to when the main CPU 40a is in the non-variation shortening state. After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern, the main CPU 40a ends the loss game process and stores the symbol command capable of identifying the determined special symbol and the variation pattern command capable of identifying the determined variation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the first special symbol start process.

[0092] Next, the second special symbol start process will be described. In the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a updates the second special reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c by subtracting 1. The main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated second special reserved number is displayed. The main CPU 40a also stores a second reserved number command capable of identifying the updated second special reserved number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 40a reads out the first stored random number information from the main RAM 40c among the random number information for the second special game. After reading out the first random number information, the main CPU 40a erases the first stored random number information from the main RAM 40c. Then, the main CPU 40a performs the jackpot lottery process by referring to the probability state flag.

[0093] In the jackpot lottery process in the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a performs the same control as the jackpot lottery process in the first special symbol start process described above. However, if the jackpot lottery is won in the jackpot lottery process in the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot lottery process and executes the jackpot game process. On the other hand, if the jackpot lottery is not won in the jackpot lottery process in the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot lottery process and executes the small jackpot lottery process.

[0094] The jackpot game processing in the second special symbol start processing will be explained. The main CPU 40a performs the same control as the jackpot game process in the first special symbol start process described above. However, if the main CPU 40a is in a non-variation shortening state, it determines the jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when the non-variation shortening state is in effect. On the other hand, if the main CPU 40a is in a variation shortening state, it determines the jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when the variation shortening state is in effect. As a result, the main CPU 40a determines a fluctuation pattern with a shorter fluctuation time when the main CPU 40a is in a variation shortening state compared to when the main CPU 40a is in a non-variation shortening state (or it is easier to determine a fluctuation pattern with a shorter fluctuation time). After determining the special symbol and the fluctuation pattern, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot game process, and stores the symbol command capable of identifying the determined special symbol and the fluctuation pattern command capable of identifying the determined fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the second special symbol start process.

[0095] In the small win lottery process, the main CPU 40a performs a small win lottery based on the value of the winning lottery random number that can be specified from the read random number information (the value of the winning lottery random number used in the big win lottery process) and the small win judgment value stored in the main ROM 40b. The main CPU 40a judges whether the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small win judgment value, and performs a small win lottery. In this embodiment, if the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small win judgment value, it is considered that the small win lottery has been won (a small win has been won), and if the value of the winning lottery random number does not match the small win judgment value, it is considered that the small win lottery has not been won (no win). Then, if the small win lottery has been won, the main CPU 40a ends the small win lottery process and executes the small win game process. On the other hand, if the small win lottery is not won, that is, if the big win is not won in the big win lottery and the small win is not won in the small win lottery, the main CPU 40a ends the small win lottery processing and executes the loss game processing.

[0096] The small win game processing will be explained. The main CPU 40a determines the small winning symbol. The main CPU 40a also determines the small winning variation pattern based on the value of the variation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information. At this time, the main CPU 40a refers to the shortened state flag. Then, if the main CPU 40a is in a non-variation shortened state, it determines the small winning variation pattern for the second special game when the non-variation shortened state is in effect. On the other hand, if the main CPU 40a is in a variation shortened state, it determines the small winning variation pattern for the second special game when the variation shortened state is in effect. As a result, the main CPU 40a determines a variation pattern with a shorter variation time when the main CPU 40a is in a variation shortened state compared to when the main CPU 40a is in a non-variation shortened state (or it is easier to determine a variation pattern with a shorter variation time). After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern, the main CPU 40a ends the small winning game process, and stores the symbol command that can specify the determined special symbol and the variation pattern command that can specify the determined variation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the second special symbol start process.

[0097] In the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 40a performs the same control as the loss game processing in the first special symbol start processing described above. However, in the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, if the main CPU 40a is in a non-variable shortening state and has won the performance lottery, it determines a loss reach-with variation pattern for the second special game in the non-variable shortening state. On the other hand, in the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, if the main CPU 40a is in a non-variable shortening state and has not won the performance lottery, it determines a loss reach-without variation pattern for the second special game in the non-variable shortening state. Also, in the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, if the main CPU 40a is in a variable shortening state and has won the performance lottery, it determines a loss reach-with variation pattern for the second special game in the variable shortening state. On the other hand, in the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 40a determines a loss reach-free fluctuation pattern for the second special game in the fluctuation shortening state when the fluctuation shortening state is in effect and the performance lottery is not won. As a result, the main CPU 40a determines a fluctuation pattern with a shorter fluctuation time (or is easier to determine a fluctuation pattern with a shorter fluctuation time) in the fluctuation shortening state compared to the non-fluctuation shortening state. After determining the special symbol and the fluctuation pattern in the loss game processing, the main CPU 40a ends the loss game processing and stores the symbol command capable of identifying the determined special symbol and the fluctuation pattern command capable of identifying the determined fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the second special symbol start processing.

[0098] In the following description, the fluctuation pattern command stored in the output buffer in the first special symbol start process may be referred to as the first fluctuation pattern command, and the fluctuation pattern command stored in the output buffer in the second special symbol start process may be referred to as the second fluctuation pattern command. The first fluctuation pattern command can be said to be control information capable of identifying a fluctuation pattern related to the first special game. On the other hand, the second fluctuation pattern command can be said to be control information capable of identifying a fluctuation pattern related to the second special game.

[0099] When the first special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 40a performs a process other than the first special symbol start process and executes the first special game. Specifically, when the first special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 40a controls to start the first special game based on the first special symbol start process. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to variably display a predetermined symbol on the first special symbol display section 22a. The main CPU 40a measures the variation time associated with the variation pattern determined in the first special symbol start process. Then, when the variation time associated with the variation pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 40a controls to end the first special game based on the first special symbol start process. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to display the special symbol determined in the first special symbol start process in a fixed stop on the first special symbol display section 22a. In addition, when the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the first special symbol start process has elapsed, the main CPU 40a stores in the output buffer a first game end command for displaying the symbol combination of the performance symbol or the specific symbol of the specific game in a fixed stop. In this embodiment, the control by the main CPU 40a to execute the first special game corresponds to the first control regarding the execution of the first special symbol variation game. The main CPU 40a controls to start the first special game by starting the first control, and controls to end the first special game by ending the first control. Incidentally, when the second special game becomes a jackpot during the execution of the first special game and the second special symbol display section 22b displays the jackpot symbol in a fixed stop, the main CPU 40a forcibly ends the first special game being executed and displays the losing symbol in the first special symbol display section 22a in a fixed stop. That is, when the second special game which is a big win ends during the execution of the first special game, the main CPU 40a interrupts the first control and forcibly ends the first special game being executed. Also, when the second special game results in a small win during the execution of the first special game and the second special symbol display section 22b displays a small win symbol as a fixed stop, the main CPU 40a forcibly ends the first special game being executed and displays a losing symbol as a fixed stop on the first special symbol display section 22a.That is, when the second special game resulting in a small win ends during the execution of the first special game, the main CPU 40a interrupts the first control and forcibly ends the first special game being executed.

[0100] When the second special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 40a performs a process other than the second special symbol start process and executes a second special game. Specifically, when the second special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 40a controls to start a second special game based on the second special symbol start process. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to variably display a predetermined symbol on the second special symbol display section 22b. The main CPU 40a measures the variation time associated with the variation pattern determined in the second special symbol start process. Then, when the variation time associated with the variation pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 40a controls to end the second special game based on the second special symbol start process. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to display the special symbol determined in the second special symbol start process in a fixed stop on the second special symbol display section 22b. In addition, when the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the second special symbol start process has elapsed, the main CPU 40a stores in the output buffer a second game end command for displaying the symbol combination of the performance symbol or the specific symbol of the specific game in a fixed stop. In this embodiment, the control by the main CPU 40a to execute the second special game corresponds to the second control regarding the execution of the second special symbol variation game. The main CPU 40a controls to start the second special game by starting the second control, and controls to end the second special game by ending the second control. Incidentally, when the first special game becomes a jackpot during the execution of the second special game and the first special symbol display section 22a displays the jackpot symbol in a fixed stop, the main CPU 40a forcibly ends the second special game being executed and displays the losing symbol in the second special symbol display section 22b in a fixed stop. That is, when the first special game resulting in a small win ends during the execution of the second special game, the main CPU 40a interrupts the second control and forcibly ends the second special game being executed. As described above, the main CPU 40a can perform the first control regarding the execution of the first special game and the second control regarding the execution of the second special game.In this embodiment, the control by the main CPU 40a to execute the special game corresponds to the control regarding the execution of the pattern change game, and the main CPU 40a realizes a function as a game control means capable of controlling the execution of the pattern change game.

[0101] Next, the big win process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described. The main CPU 40a performs a jackpot process after the special game of the jackpot is completed. The main CPU 40a specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (i.e., the type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start process. Then, the main CPU 40a starts control to generate the specified type of jackpot game after the special game of the jackpot is completed. Therefore, the main CPU 40a generates a jackpot game by executing the jackpot process. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a jackpot game is generated after a jackpot is won. Note that generating a jackpot game corresponds to awarding a jackpot game. If the jackpot symbol determined in the special symbol start process is the first jackpot symbol, the main CPU 40a awards the first jackpot game after the special game of the first jackpot is completed. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the jackpot symbol determined in the special symbol start process is the first jackpot symbol, the first jackpot game is awarded after the special game resulting in the first jackpot is completed. If the jackpot symbol determined in the special symbol start process is the second jackpot symbol, the main CPU 40a awards the second jackpot game after the special game resulting in the second jackpot is completed. If the jackpot symbol determined in the special symbol start process is the third jackpot symbol, the main CPU 40a awards the third jackpot game after the special game resulting in the third jackpot is completed.

[0102] In the jackpot process, the main CPU 40a stores an opening command in the output buffer. When the main CPU 40a stores the opening command in the output buffer, it times the opening time. In addition, when the opening time has elapsed, the main CPU 40a performs a process for executing a round game. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the second actuator A2 so that the first large prize winning hole 29 opens according to the opening mode (opening pattern), and starts the round game. After starting the round game, when the first opening game ending condition or the second opening game ending condition is established, the main CPU 40a controls the second actuator A2 so that the first large prize winning hole 29 is closed, and ends the round game. The main CPU 40a repeatedly performs the process for executing the round game until the round game is ended up to the upper limit number of times set for the jackpot game. The main CPU 40a stores a round command in the output buffer every time a round game is started. In addition, when the final round of play ends, the main CPU 40a stores an ending command in the output buffer. When the main CPU 40a stores the ending command in the output buffer, it times the ending time. Then, when the ending time has elapsed, the main CPU 40a ends the big win process.

[0103] Next, the small win process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described. The main CPU 40a performs small win processing after the special game of the small win is finished. In the small win processing, the main CPU 40a starts control to generate a small win game after the special game of the small win is finished. Therefore, the main CPU 40a generates a small win game by executing the small win processing. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a small win game is generated after a small win is won. Note that generating a small win game corresponds to granting a small win game. That is, the main CPU 40a grants a small win game after the special game of the small win is finished. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a small win game is granted after the special game that becomes a small win is finished. When generating a small win game, the main CPU 40a stores control information indicating that a small win game is generated (hereinafter, referred to as a small win generation command) in the output buffer.

[0104] When a small win game is generated in the small win processing, the main CPU 40a controls the third actuator A3 so that the second large winning opening 31 opens for 0.6 seconds at the upper limit, then closes for 0.5 seconds, and then opens for 1.2 seconds at the upper limit. After the small win game is generated, the main CPU 40a controls the third actuator A3 so that the second large winning opening 31 is closed when the first open game ending condition or the second open game ending condition is established, and ends the small win processing.

[0105] Next, the game status processing performed by the main CPU 40a will be described. The main RAM 40c stores information that can specify the game state. As described above, the information that can specify the game state includes a probability state flag that can specify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state. The information that can specify the game state includes information that can specify whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state (hereinafter, referred to as an extension state flag). As described above, the information that can specify the game state includes a shortened state flag. In this embodiment, information that can specify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state, information that can specify whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state, and information that can specify whether the game state is a variable shortened state or a non-variable shortened state are separated, but some or all of the information may be common information. For example, a single piece of information may be configured to specify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state, whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state, and whether the game state is a variable shortened state or a non-variable shortened state.

[0106] When controlling to the low probability state, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can identify the low probability state. When the probability state flag is set to a value that can identify the low probability state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify the low probability state in the output buffer. When controlling to the high probability state, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can identify the high probability state. When the probability state flag is set to a value that can identify the high probability state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify the high probability state in the output buffer. When controlling to the non-open extended state, the main CPU 40a sets the extended state flag to a value that can identify the non-open extended state. When the extended state flag is set to a value that can identify the non-open extended state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify the non-open extended state in the output buffer. When controlling to the open extended state, the main CPU 40a sets the extended state flag to a value that can identify the open extended state. When the extended state flag is set to a value that can identify the open extended state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify the open extended state in the output buffer. Furthermore, when controlling to the non-variable shortening state, the main CPU 40a sets the shortening state flag to a value that can identify the non-variable shortening state. When the shortening state flag is set to a value that can identify the non-variable shortening state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify the non-variable shortening state in the output buffer. When controlling to the variable shortening state, the main CPU 40a sets the shortening state flag to a value that can identify the variable shortening state. When the shortening state flag is set to a value that can identify the variable shortening state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify the variable shortening state in the output buffer.

[0107] After the first jackpot is completed, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can specify a high probability state, sets the extension state flag to a value that can specify a non-open extension state, and sets the shortened state flag to a value that can specify a variable shortened state. After the second jackpot is completed, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can specify a high probability state, sets the extension state flag to a value that can specify an open extension state, and sets the shortened state flag to a value that can specify a variable shortened state. After the third jackpot is completed, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can specify a low probability state, sets the extension state flag to a value that can specify an open extension state, and sets the shortened state flag to a value that can specify a variable shortened state. After the third jackpot is completed, the main CPU 40a stores 100 times as the predetermined number of times in the main RAM 40c as extension remaining number information that can specify the remaining number of times of the special game controlled to the open extension state. When the remaining extension number information stored in the main RAM 40c is 1 or more, the main CPU 40a subtracts 1 from the remaining extension number information and updates the remaining extension number information each time the special game ends. Also, when the updated remaining extension number information reaches 0, the main CPU 40a sets the extension state flag to a value that can specify a non-open extension state, and sets the shortened state flag to a value that can specify a non-variable shortened state.

[0108] When the game state is set to a value that can specify a low probability state for the probability state flag, a value that can specify a non-open extension state for the extension state flag, and a value that can specify a non-variable shortening state for the shortening state flag, the main CPU 40a stores information that can specify a normal low probability state (hereinafter referred to as normal low probability information) in the main RAM 40c. When the game state is set to a value that can specify a low probability state for the probability state flag, a value that can specify an open extension state for the extension state flag, and a value that can specify a variable shortening state for the shortening state flag, the main CPU 40a stores information that can specify a specific low probability state (hereinafter referred to as specific low probability information) in the main RAM 40c. In addition, when the game state is set to a value that can specify a high probability state for the probability state flag, a value that can specify an open extension state for the extension state flag, and a value that can specify a variable shortening state for the shortening state flag, the main CPU 40a stores information that can specify a specific high probability state (hereinafter referred to as specific high probability information) in the main RAM 40c. When a game state is reached in which the probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a high probability state, the extension state flag is set to a value that can identify a non-open extension state, and the shortened state flag is set to a value that can identify a variable shortened state, the main CPU 40a stores information that can identify a special state (hereinafter referred to as special state information) in the main RAM 40c.

[0109] Incidentally, when a jackpot game is generated, the main CPU 40a sets a value that can specify control to a low probability state to the probability state flag, a value that can specify a non-open extension state to the extension state flag, and a value that can specify a non-variable shortened state to the shortened state flag. Therefore, when a jackpot game is generated in a special state, the special state ends and a jackpot game is generated. In this embodiment, when a jackpot game is generated in a special state, that is, when a jackpot lottery is won in a special state, the special state ends. And, when a jackpot game is generated in a specific low probability state, the specific low probability state ends and a jackpot game is generated. In this embodiment, when a jackpot game is generated in a specific low probability state, that is, when a jackpot lottery is won in a specific low probability state, the specific low probability state ends. Also, if a jackpot game occurs during a specific high probability state, the specific high probability state ends and a jackpot game occurs. In this embodiment, if a jackpot game occurs during a specific high probability state, that is, if a jackpot lottery is won during a specific high probability state, the specific high probability state ends. As described above, in this embodiment, the main CPU 40a performs game state processing, thereby realizing a function as a game state control means that controls the game state.

[0110] Next, the normal symbol input process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described. In the normal symbol input process, the main CPU 40a judges whether the game ball has passed (entered) the gate 33 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the gate sensor SE5. If the game ball has not passed the gate 33, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol input process. On the other hand, if the game ball has passed the gate 33, the main CPU 40a judges whether the normal reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If the normal reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol input process. If the normal reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 40a adds 1 to the normal reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c and updates it. In this case, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated normal reserved number. In addition, the main CPU 40a stores control information (hereinafter, referred to as a normal reserved number command) capable of identifying the updated normal reserved number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 40a acquires the normal winning lottery random number generated in the main board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main RAM 40c. In this case, the main CPU 40a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for a normal game and the storage order of the random number information. After that, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol input process.

[0111] Next, the normal symbol start process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described. In the normal symbol start process, the main CPU 40a judges whether the execution conditions of the normal game are met. The main CPU 40a judges positively when the normal winning game is not being played and the normal game is not being played, whereas it judges negatively when the normal winning game is being played or the normal game is being played. If the execution conditions of the normal game are not met, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol start process. On the other hand, if the execution conditions of the normal game are met, the main CPU 40a judges whether the normal reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c is 1 or more. If the normal reserved number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol start process. If the normal reserved number is 1 or more, the main CPU 40a updates the normal reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c by subtracting 1. In this process, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated normal reserved number is displayed. In addition, the main CPU 40a stores a normal reserved number command capable of identifying the updated normal reserved number in the output buffer.

[0112] Next, the main CPU 40a reads out the random number information for the normal game that was stored first from the main RAM 40c. After reading out the first random number information, the main CPU 40a erases the first random number information stored from the main RAM 40c. Next, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not a normal win is won based on the read out random number information for the normal game and the normal win judgment value stored in the main ROM 40b. This process corresponds to a normal win lottery (normal win judgment) for whether or not a normal win is won. For example, when the normal win high probability state and the normal win low probability state are configured to be controllable, the main CPU 40a may perform a normal win lottery so that the probability of winning a normal win is higher in the normal win high probability state than in the normal win low probability state. When a normal win is won, the main CPU 40a determines the normal win symbol to be displayed as a fixed stop in the normal game and the fluctuation time of the normal game, and then ends the normal symbol start process. When the normal winning lottery is not won, the main CPU 40a determines the normal losing symbol to be displayed as a fixed stop in the normal game and the fluctuation time of the normal game, and then ends the normal symbol start process. For example, when the normal shortened state and the non-normal shortened state are controllable, the main CPU 40a may determine a shorter time as the fluctuation time of the normal game in the normal shortened state (or may be configured to easily determine a shorter time as the fluctuation time of the normal game) compared to the non-normal shortened state. The main CPU 40a may be configured to determine the fluctuation time of the normal game by determining a normal fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the normal game is set. This normal fluctuation pattern may be stored in the main ROM 40b.

[0113] Then, the main CPU 40a executes a normal game by performing a process other than the normal symbol start process. Specifically, the main CPU 40a starts the normal game and controls the information display panel 22 so that the normal symbol determined in the normal symbol start process is displayed as a fixed stop when the variable time determined in the normal symbol start process has elapsed.

[0114] Next, the normal winning process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described. After the normal game of the normal win is finished, the main CPU 40a performs normal win processing. In the normal win processing, the main CPU 40a starts control to generate a normal win game depending on whether the state is the open extension state or the non-open extension state. Therefore, the main CPU 40a generates a normal win by performing normal win processing. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a normal win game is generated after winning a normal win. Note that generating a normal win game corresponds to granting a normal win game. In the normal win processing, when the main CPU 40a is in the open extension state, the main CPU 40a controls the first actuator A1 so that the second start hole 27 is opened in the opening mode in the open extension state. Also, when the main CPU 40a is in the non-open extension state, the main CPU 40a controls the first actuator A1 so that the second start hole 27 is opened in the opening mode in the non-open extension state.

[0115] In this embodiment, the opening mode in the open extension state is such that the second start hole 27 is opened more times in one normal winning game, and the total time that the second start hole 27 is opened is longer, compared to the opening mode in the non-open extension state. Therefore, when the second start hole 27 is opened in the opening mode in the open extension state, it is easier to make the game ball enter the second start hole 27, compared to when the second start hole 27 is opened in the opening mode in the non-open extension state. In other words, when the game is in the open extension state, the advantage of entering the game ball into the second start hole 27 is higher than when the game is in the non-open extension state.

[0116] Next, various processes performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described. First, the process performed by the secondary CPU 41a regarding input of a read-ahead command will be described. When a read-ahead command is input, the sub-CPU 41a stores the input read-ahead command in the sub-RAM 41c. Specifically, the sub-CPU 41a identifies whether the input read-ahead command corresponds to the first special game or the second special game, and stores the read-ahead command corresponding to the first special game and the read-ahead command corresponding to the second special game in the sub-RAM 41c. At this time, the sub-CPU 41a stores the read-ahead commands in the sub-RAM 41c so that the storage order of the read-ahead commands can be specified according to the first special reserved number or the second special reserved number that can be specified from the read-ahead command. In addition, when the first special game is over, the sub-CPU 41a erases the read-ahead command that is stored first among the read-ahead commands corresponding to the first special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c. Similarly, when the second special game is over, the sub-CPU 41a erases the read-ahead command that is stored first among the read-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c.

[0117] Next, the presentation game process performed by the sub-CPU 41a will be described. The sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamp 17, the speaker 18, and the effect display device 25 so that the effect game is performed. Specifically, when the sub-CPU 41a is in a normal low probability state, it controls to execute the effect game when it inputs the first variation pattern command. Note that, when the sub-CPU 41a is in a normal low probability state, it does not control to execute the effect game even if it inputs the second variation pattern command. On the other hand, when the sub-CPU 41a is in any of a specific low probability state, a specific high probability state, and a special state, it controls to execute the effect game when it inputs the second variation pattern command. Note that, when the sub-CPU 41a is in any of a specific low probability state, a specific high probability state, and a special state, it does not control to execute the effect game even if it inputs the first variation pattern command. In this way, when the sub-CPU 41a is in a normal low probability state, it executes an effect game based on the first special game. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, when it is controlled to the normal low probability state and the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the second special game being executed is not executed, while the presentation game corresponding to the first special game being executed is executed. Also, the sub-CPU 41a executes a presentation game based on the second special game when it is in any of the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, when it is controlled to any of the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state and the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the first special game being executed is not executed, while the presentation game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed.

[0118] In controlling the execution of the performance game, the sub-CPU 41a determines a pattern combination by the performance patterns to be finally displayed in the performance game based on the pattern command and the variation pattern command. When the special pattern that can be specified from the pattern command is a big win pattern, the sub-CPU 41a determines a performance pattern combination for a big win. When the special pattern that can be specified from the pattern command is a small win pattern, the sub-CPU 41a determines a performance pattern combination for a small win. When the special pattern that can be specified from the pattern command is a losing pattern, the sub-CPU 41a determines a losing performance pattern combination. When a reach performance is performed in the performance game because the reach condition is established, the sub-CPU 41a may determine a losing performance pattern combination including a reach. In this embodiment, the reach condition is established when a loss reach-with variation pattern is specified among the loss variation patterns.

[0119] When the sub-CPU 41a inputs the variation pattern command, it controls the performance display device 25 so as to display the performance symbols in a variable manner. In other words, the sub-CPU 41a starts the performance game. The variation pattern command can be said to be control information that instructs the start of a performance game based on the variation pattern. The sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamp 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that a performance such as a big win notice performance is executed based on the variation pattern that can be specified from the variation pattern command. In addition, the sub-CPU 41a temporarily stops and displays the pattern combination based on the determined performance pattern at a predetermined timing. After that, the sub-CPU 41a displays the performance symbol combination in a fixed and stopped manner upon input of the game end command. The sub-CPU 41a may measure a variation time that can be specified from the variation pattern regardless of the game end command, and display the performance symbol combination in a fixed and stopped manner upon the passage of the variation time.

[0120] Next, the specific game process performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described. The sub-CPU 41a controls the effect display device 25 so that the special game is played. Specifically, in any of the game states of the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs the first variation pattern command, the sub-CPU 41a controls to play the first special game based on the first special game. Also, in any of the game states of the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs the second variation pattern command, the sub-CPU 41a controls to play the second special game based on the second special game. In the gaming machine 10, when the first special game and the second special game are simultaneously played, the first special game and the second special game are simultaneously played. In this embodiment, when the first special game and the second special game are simultaneously played, regardless of whether the game is controlled in any of the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state, the first special game corresponding to the first special game being played is played, and the second special game corresponding to the second special game being played is played.

[0121] In controlling the execution of the specific game, the sub-CPU 41a determines the specific symbol to be finally displayed as a fixed stop in the specific game based on the symbol command and the variable pattern command. When the special symbol identifiable from the symbol command is a big win symbol, the sub-CPU 41a determines the special symbol for the big win. When the special symbol identifiable from the symbol command is a small win symbol, the sub-CPU 41a determines the special symbol for the small win. When the special symbol identifiable from the symbol command is a losing symbol, the sub-CPU 41a determines the special symbol for the losing symbol. The type of the specific symbol to be finally displayed as a fixed stop in the specific game may be different depending on the type of the big win symbol.

[0122] In addition, the sub-CPU41a controls the effect display device 25 so that, upon input of the first variation pattern command, the specific symbols in the first specific area Z1 are displayed in a variable manner and the first specific game is started. In addition, the sub-CPU41a controls the effect display device 25 so that, upon input of the first game end command, the specific symbols are displayed in a fixed and stopped manner in the first specific area Z1 and the first specific game is ended. Similarly, the sub-CPU41a controls the effect display device 25 so that, upon input of the second variation pattern command, the specific symbols in the second specific area Z2 are displayed in a variable manner and the second specific game is started. In addition, the sub-CPU41a controls the effect display device 25 so that, upon input of the second game end command, the specific symbols are displayed in a fixed and stopped manner in the second specific area Z2 and the second specific game is ended.

[0123] Next, the winning effect process performed by the sub-CPU 41a will be described. During a jackpot game, the sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that a jackpot performance is performed. When an opening command is input, the sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that an opening performance is performed. When a round command is input, the sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that a round performance is performed. When an ending command is input, the sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that an ending performance is performed.

[0124] In addition, the sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamp 17, the speaker 18, and the effect display device 25 during a small win game so that a small win effect is performed. In this embodiment, the small win effect is a content in which the effect pattern at the end of the small win special game is continuously displayed on the effect display device 25. In this embodiment, the small win effect is a content in which the specific pattern at the end of the small win special game is continuously displayed on the effect display device 25.

[0125] Next, the state processing performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described. The sub-RAM 41c stores information that can identify the game state. The information that can identify the game state stored in the sub-RAM 41c includes information that can identify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state (hereinafter referred to as a sub-probability state flag). The information that can identify the game state stored in the sub-RAM 41c includes information that can identify whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state (hereinafter referred to as a sub-extension state flag). The information that can identify the game state stored in the sub-RAM 41c includes information that can identify whether the game state is a variable shortening state or a non-variable shortening state (hereinafter referred to as a sub-shortening state flag). In this embodiment, information that can identify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state, information that can identify whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state, and information that can identify whether the game state is a variable shortening state or a non-variable shortening state are separated, but some or all of the information may be common information. For example, it may be possible to configure the device to be able to identify from a single piece of information whether the state is a low probability state or a high probability state, whether the state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state, and whether the state is a variable shortening state or a non-variable shortening state.

[0126] When control information capable of identifying a low probability state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary probability state flag to a value capable of identifying a low probability state. When control information capable of identifying a high probability state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary probability state flag to a value capable of identifying a high probability state. When control information capable of identifying a non-open extension state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary extension state flag to a value capable of identifying a non-open extension state. When control information capable of identifying an open extension state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary extension state flag to a value capable of identifying an open extension state. When control information capable of identifying a non-variable shortening state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary shortening state flag to a value capable of identifying a non-variable shortening state. When control information capable of identifying a variable shortening state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary shortening state flag to a value capable of identifying a variable shortening state.

[0127] When the game state is reached in which the secondary probability state flag is set to a value that can specify a low probability state, the secondary extension state flag is set to a value that can specify a non-open extension state, and the secondary shortened state flag is set to a value that can specify a non-variable shortened state, the secondary CPU 41a stores information that can specify a normal low probability state (hereinafter referred to as secondary normal low probability information) in the secondary RAM 41c. When the game state is reached in which the secondary probability state flag is set to a value that can specify a low probability state, the secondary extension state flag is set to a value that can specify an open extension state, and the secondary shortened state flag is set to a value that can specify a variable shortened state, the secondary CPU 41a stores information that can specify a specific low probability state (hereinafter referred to as secondary specific low probability information) in the secondary RAM 41c. In addition, when the game state is reached in which the secondary probability state flag is set to a value that can specify a high probability state, the secondary extension state flag is set to a value that can specify an open extension state, and the secondary shortened state flag is set to a value that can specify a variable shortened state, the main CPU 40a stores information that can specify a specific high probability state (hereinafter referred to as secondary specific high probability information) in the secondary RAM 41c. When the game state is reached in which the secondary probability state flag is set to a value that can specify a high probability state, the secondary extension state flag is set to a value that can specify a non-open extension state, and the secondary shortened state flag is set to a value that can specify a variable shortened state, the sub-CPU 41a stores information that can specify a special state (hereinafter referred to as secondary special information) in the secondary RAM 41c.

[0128] When the sub-CPU 41a inputs an opening command, it sets the winning status flag stored in the sub-RAM 41c to a value that can specify that a big win game is being played. When the sub-CPU 41a inputs an ending command and then a variation pattern designation command, it sets the winning status flag stored in the sub-RAM 41c to a value that can specify that a small win game is being played. When the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small win occurrence command, it sets the winning status flag stored in the sub-RAM 41c to a value that can specify that a small win game is being played. When the sub-CPU 41a inputs a variation pattern designation command after inputting a small win occurrence command, it sets a value that can specify that a win game is not being played. The sub-CPU 41a can specify whether a big win game is being played, a small win game is being played, or a win game is not being played (not a big win game, not a small win game) by referring to the winning status flag stored in the sub-RAM 41c.

[0129] Here, with reference to FIG. 8, a change in the number of balls possessed with respect to the playing time in each playing state in the gaming machine 10 will be described. In the gaming machine 10, if the game ball enters the second starting hole 27, even if it does not become a big win, there is a high probability of a small win. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole in a non-probability variable state is the same as the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole in a probability variable state. Therefore, the probability of a small win in the second special game is the same in any of the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state. And, if you hit it to the right, you can make the game ball enter the gate 33 and the second starting hole 27, so that a small win lottery is generated and you have a chance to win a prize ball. However, since the fluctuation time of the second special game in the non-fluctuation shortening state is significantly longer than that in the fluctuation shortening state, the time until the small win game actually occurs and the chance to win a prize ball arrives is also significantly longer. In this embodiment, after the game ball is inserted into the second starting hole 27 and the execution of the second special game starts, the second large winning hole 31 is finally opened about 10 minutes later.

[0130] And, when hitting to the right in the non-variable shortening state, the number of game balls consumed per unit of time (the number of game balls shot) exceeds the number of game balls that can be acquired per unit of time. Furthermore, when hitting to the right, the game balls do not enter the first starting hole 26, so the number of special games executed per unit of time is significantly reduced. For this reason, when in the non-variable shortening state, hitting to the left is preferable. On the other hand, when in the variable shortening state, the variable time of the second special game is shorter than when in the non-variable shortening state. As a result, when in the variable shortening state, the number of small wins per unit of time is more likely to be greater than when in the non-variable shortening state, and the frequency of small wins per unit of time is likely to be higher. That is, in this embodiment, when in the special state, the frequency of small wins per unit of time is higher than when in the normal low probability state. In addition, in this embodiment, when the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state are in place, the frequency of small wins per unit time is higher than when the normal low probability state is in place. Therefore, when the variation shortening state is in place, it is preferable to hit the right side.

[0131] Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, the second starting port 27 is provided upstream of the second large winning port 31 in the flow passage 39. In this embodiment, when the open extension state is in place, many of the game balls entering through the ball entry port 39a enter the second starting port 27, and even if a small win game occurs, the game balls are unlikely to enter the second large winning port 31. In particular, even if the second starting port 27 is closed, the first protrusion 38a reduces the flow speed of the game balls flowing down the flow passage 39, so that even if the game balls entered the ball entry port 39a when the second starting port 27 is closed, they are more likely to enter the second starting port 27. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when the non-open extension state is in place, more of the game balls entering through the ball entry port 39a tend to enter the second large winning port 31 without entering the second starting port 27, compared to when the open extension state is in place. In particular, even if the second large prize opening 31 is closed, the second protrusion 38b reduces the flow speed of the game ball flowing down the flow passage 39, increasing the possibility that a game ball that did not enter the second starting opening 27 will enter the second large prize opening 31.

[0132] As shown in FIG. 8, according to the gaming machine 10, when the special state is controlled, the number of times that small wins occur per unit time increases, so that the number of game balls that can be acquired per unit time is greater than the number of game balls consumed per unit time. In this way, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the special state, if the player hits the right side, it is possible to increase the number of game balls (held balls) held by the occurrence of a small win game, even if a big win game does not occur. In this way, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to at least the non-open extension state and the variable shortening state, it can be said that the advantage when a small win game occurs is higher than when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to at least the non-open extension state and the variable shortening state. Also, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to at least the non-open extension state and the variable shortening state, it can be said that the advantage when a small win game occurs is higher than when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to at least the open extension state and the variable shortening state. For this reason, it can be said that the special state is more advantageous than the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state. In this embodiment, when the game machine is controlled to at least the non-open extended state and the variable shortened state, the number of game balls that can be acquired is greater than the number of game balls shot per unit time, so that the advantage is high when a small win game is generated. In other words, when a small win game is awarded in a special state, the expectation of acquiring game balls is higher than when a small win game is awarded in a normal low probability state, a specific low probability state, and a specific high probability state.

[0133] In the gaming machine 10, when it is controlled to the normal low probability state, it is preferable to hit from the left, so it is assumed that the player will hit from the left. However, when it is controlled to the normal low probability state, the number of balls held cannot be increased even if the player hits from the left, and the number of balls held decreases the longer the game continues.

[0134] In addition, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, it is preferable to hit the ball to the right, so it is assumed that the ball will be hit to the right. However, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the number of times a small hit is won per unit time is greater than in the normal low probability state, but the number of balls held is reduced as the game continues. In other words, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the number of times a small hit is awarded per unit time is greater than in the normal low probability state, but the number of balls held does not increase. However, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the game ball can be easily inserted into the second starting hole 27 by hitting the ball to the right, so the reduction in the number of balls held when the game continues is suppressed compared to when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal low probability state. For this reason, the specific low probability state can be said to be more advantageous than the normal low probability state. Furthermore, the specific high probability state can be said to be more advantageous than the normal low probability state.

[0135] On the other hand, when the machine is controlled to the special state, it is preferable to hit the ball from the right, so it is assumed that the ball will be hit from the right. When the machine is controlled to the special state, hitting the ball from the right increases the chances of a small win occurring per unit time and a game ball entering the second large winning hole 31, so that the number of balls held can be increased, and the more the game continues, the more balls held. Thus, in this embodiment, in the special state, the number of times a small win is won per unit time increases compared to the normal low probability state, and the number of balls held can be increased. That is, in the special state, the number of times a small win is awarded per unit time increases compared to the normal low probability state, so that the number of balls held can be increased. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be controllable to a special state in which the number of times a small win is won per unit time increases, so that the number of balls held can be increased.

[0136] In the gaming machine 10, when the special state is controlled, the player can expect a jackpot, and can also expect the period of time controlled to the special state to be longer. In the gaming machine 10, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 900 balls from when the special state is controlled to when the special state ends. Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, when the first jackpot game is generated, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 750 balls during the jackpot game. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, when the second jackpot game is generated and when the third jackpot game is generated, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 300 balls during the jackpot game. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, the expected value of the increase in the number of balls held is higher in one first jackpot game than in one second jackpot game or one third jackpot game.

[0137] In the gaming machine 10, the expected value of the increase in the number of balls held is higher from the start of the special state to the end of the special state than in one jackpot game. In the gaming machine 10, the special state is controlled after the end of the first jackpot game. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, the specific high probability state is controlled after the end of the second jackpot game, and the specific low probability state is controlled after the end of the third jackpot game. As described above, when a small jackpot game is awarded in a special state, the expected value of increasing the number of balls held is higher than when a small jackpot game is awarded in a specific low probability state or a specific high probability state. In other words, the expected value of the increase in the number of balls held in the game after the end of the first jackpot game is higher than the expected value of the increase in the number of balls held after the end of the second jackpot game or the end of the third jackpot game.

[0138] In addition, in the gaming machine 10, when one small win game occurs in a special state, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 30 during the small win game. In the gaming machine 10, when a first big win game occurs, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 750 during the big win game, so the expected value of the increase in the number of balls held is higher in one first big win game than in one small win game. Therefore, it can be said that the degree of advantage is higher when the first big win game is awarded than when the small win game is awarded.

[0139] Next, it will be explained that when a winning lottery (jackpot lottery and small jackpot lottery) held in response to a ball entering the second starting hole 27 is won during the execution of the first special game, and a winning game (jackpot game and small jackpot game) is generated, the generation of the winning game takes priority over the first special game being executed.

[0140] As shown in FIG. 9, during the execution of the first special game, the second special game that won a big win or a small win in the winning lottery is ended at timing t11. In this case, the first special symbol changing game that is normally played until the changing time T1 based on the changing pattern is forced to end as a loss at the changing time T2 corresponding to the time when the timing t11 arrives, and the first special game that was being executed is stopped. That is, in the gaming machine 10, when the second special game that is a big win or a small win ends during the execution of the first special game, the first control is interrupted, and the first special game that is being executed is forced to end as a loss. Then, when the winning game that occurred from timing t11 ends at timing t12, if the first special reserved number is "1 or more", the first special game is executed. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, after the winning game ends, if the first special reserved number is "1 or more", the interrupted first control is started, and the first special game starts. Similarly, when the winning game ends at timing t12, if the second special reserved number is "1 or more", the second special game is executed. Note that the first special game that was forcibly ended at timing t11 and the first special game that is started to be executed after the winning game ends are different first special games.

[0141] Here, the special effects executed on the gaming machine 10 will be described. The special effects are configured to be executable in the effect display device 25. The special effects are executable during a big win game. On the other hand, the special effects cannot be executed during a small win game. In this embodiment, the special effects are configured to be executable during an ending period during a big win game. In the gaming machine 10, the special effects are executed for the special games whose execution is suspended. That is, in this embodiment, the special effects are configured to be executable for the special games whose execution is suspended during a big win game. Specifically, in this embodiment, the special effects are configured to be executable for the second special game whose execution is suspended among the first special game whose execution is suspended and the second special game whose execution is suspended. That is, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute the special effects for the second special game whose execution is suspended during a big win game. Then, in the gaming machine 10, the special effects are executed depending on whether the second special game that becomes the first big win is present among the second special games whose execution is suspended during a big win game. Specifically, in the gaming machine 10, during a jackpot game, the special effect is executed when there is a second special game resulting in a first jackpot among the second special games that are the targets of the special effect. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, during a jackpot game, the special effect is not executed when there is no second special game resulting in a first jackpot among the second special games that are the targets of the special effect.

[0142] In the gaming machine 10, even if there is a second special game resulting in a small win among the second special games whose execution is suspended during a jackpot game, if there is no second special game resulting in a first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is not executed. That is, in the gaming machine 10, even if there is a second special game resulting in a small win among the second special games whose execution is suspended, if there is no second special game resulting in a first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is executed. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, even if there is a second special game resulting in a second or third jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended during a jackpot game, if there is no second special game resulting in a first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is not executed. That is, in the gaming machine 10, even if there is a second special game resulting in a second or third jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, if there is no second special game resulting in a first jackpot, the special effect is not executed. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if there is a second special game resulting in a first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is executed even if there is no second special game resulting in a second or third jackpot. The special effect can be said to be an effect that notifies the user that there is a second special game resulting in a first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended.

[0143] FIG. 10 shows an example of the display contents of the effect display device 25 when a special effect is executed during the first jackpot game. As shown in FIG. 10, during the jackpot game, after the final round of play is completed, an ending effect and a special effect are executed. In the effect display device 25, a special image SD1 is displayed in association with the execution of the special effect. In this embodiment, the special image SD1 is composed of an image imitating a "samurai" character and an image of the line "It's V!!" In this embodiment, the special image SD1 is displayed on the effect display device 25 during at least a portion of the ending period, and the special effect is executed.

[0144] The process related to the special effects performed by the sub-CPU 41a will be described. When the sub-CPU 41a inputs an ending command, it determines whether or not to execute a special effect based on the look-ahead command stored in the sub-RAM 41c. Specifically, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs an ending command, if the look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game is not stored in the sub-RAM 41c, it does not determine to execute a special effect. That is, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs an ending command, if the second special reserved number is 0, it does not determine to execute a special effect. Not determining to execute a special effect is equivalent to determining not to execute a special effect. During the first and second jackpot games, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs an ending command, if a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game is stored in the sub-RAM 41c, it determines whether the look-ahead command is classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5. In addition, when an ending command is input during a third jackpot game, if a look-ahead command corresponding to a second special game is stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a judges whether the look-ahead command is classified as a look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands. In other words, when an ending command is input during a jackpot game, the sub-CPU 41a judges whether a second special game that will become a first jackpot is present among the second special games whose execution is suspended.

[0145] During the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game, if there is a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a decides to execute a special effect. For example, during the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game, if there is a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game, the sub-CPU 41a may be configured to determine by lottery that a special effect is executed. During the third jackpot game, if there is a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a decides to execute a special effect. For example, during the third jackpot game, if there is a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game, the sub-CPU 41a may be configured to determine by lottery that a special effect is executed.

[0146] When it is determined that the special effect is to be executed, the sub-CPU41a controls the special effect to be executed. In this manner, in this embodiment, when the second special game that is the first big win is included in the second special games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is executed. When the special effect is executed, the sub-CPU41a controls the special effect to end when the ending time has elapsed.

[0147] On the other hand, during the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game, if there is no look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, or SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a does not decide to execute the special effect. Also, during the third jackpot game, if there is no look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a does not decide to execute the special effect. Thus, in this embodiment, if there is no second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is not executed.

[0148] Next, the specific effects executed on the gaming machine 10 will be described. The specific performance is configured to be executable in the performance display device 25. The specific performance can be executed during a small win game. On the other hand, the specific performance cannot be executed during any of the first, second, and third big win games. In addition, the specific performance can be executed during a small win game when a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state. On the other hand, the specific performance cannot be executed during the small win game even if a small win game is awarded in the normal low probability state. In addition, the specific performance cannot be executed during the small win game even if a small win game is awarded in the special state. And, the specific performance is executed during at least a part of the period from the start to the end of the small win game. In the gaming machine 10, the specific performance is executed for the special game whose execution is pending. That is, in this embodiment, during a small win game, a specific effect is configured to be executed for the special game whose execution is suspended. Specifically, in this embodiment, a specific effect is configured to be executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended among the first special game whose execution is suspended and the second special game whose execution is suspended. In this way, when a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute a specific effect for the second special game whose execution is suspended during the small win game. On the other hand, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be unable to execute a specific effect when a small win game is awarded in the normal low probability state. Also, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be unable to execute a specific effect when a small win game is awarded in a special state.

[0149] In the gaming machine 10, during a small win game, a specific effect is executed depending on whether or not there is a second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended. Specifically, in the gaming machine 10, during a small win game, when there is a second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the specific effect is more likely to be executed than when there is no second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended. Specifically, in this embodiment, the probability of winning the specific effect lottery that determines whether or not to execute a specific effect is set higher when there is a second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended, compared to when there is no second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended. Incidentally, in this embodiment, it is determined that a specific effect is executed by winning the specific effect lottery, while it is not determined that a specific effect is executed by not winning the specific effect lottery. Not determining to execute a specific effect corresponds to determining not to execute a specific effect.

[0150] In the gaming machine 10, when a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the winning probability of the specific performance lottery does not change depending on whether or not there is a second special game that will result in a small win among the second special games whose execution is suspended. In this way, the specific performance can be executed during a small win game, regardless of whether there is a second special game that will result in a small win among the second special games whose execution is suspended. Also, in the gaming machine 10, when a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the winning probability of the specific performance lottery does not change depending on whether or not there is a second special game that will result in a second or third jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. In this way, the specific performance can be executed during a small win game, regardless of whether there is a second special game that will result in a second or third jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended.

[0151] As described above, in the gaming machine 10, during a small win game, the special effect may be executed in either case where there is a second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended, or where there is no second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended. That is, during a small win game, the special effect can be executed in either case where there is a second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games that are the target of the special effect, or where there is no second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games that are the target of the special effect. The special effect can be said to be an effect that suggests that there is a second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended.

[0152] There are several types of specific effects in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the expectation of the second special game being the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended varies depending on the type of specific effect. In the following description, the "expectation of the second special game being the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended" may be simply referred to as the "expectation of the first jackpot by the specific effect." The expectation of the first jackpot by the specific effect can be calculated by the ratio of the probability of being executed when the second special game being the first jackpot is not among the second special games whose execution is suspended, and the probability of being executed when the second special game being the first jackpot is among the second special games whose execution is suspended.

[0153] The special effects include a first special effect, a second special effect, and a third special effect. The third special effect has a higher first jackpot expectation rate than the first and second special effects. The second special effect has a higher first jackpot expectation rate than the first special effect. The special effects are configured such that the first stage effect is executed, and then the second stage effect is executed. In this embodiment, the first stage effects in the first to third special effects are common, and are the same in the performance mode. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the second stage effects in the first to third special effects are not common, and are different in the performance mode.

[0154] As shown in FIG. 11(a), when a specific performance is executed, a specific image LD1 is displayed on the performance display device 25, and a first stage performance is executed. The specific image LD1 of this embodiment is composed of an image imitating a "scroll" and including text information such as "Lord! Up ahead...". After that, the specific image LD1 is erased, and as shown in FIG. 11(b), when a specific performance is executed, a specific image LD2 different from the specific image LD1 is displayed on the performance display device 25, and a second stage performance is executed. The specific image LD2 shown in FIG. 11(b) is an image imitating a "scroll" and including text information such as "It's super hot!?", but the text information included in the specific image LD2 differs depending on the type of specific performance. That is, there are multiple types of specific performances in this embodiment, and the same performance (first stage performance) regardless of the type of specific performance and a performance (second stage performance) that differs depending on the type of specific performance are executed.

[0155] The following describes the processing related to the specific presentation performed by the sub-CPU 41a when in a specific low-probability state and when in a specific high-probability state. When the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small win occurrence command, it determines whether or not to execute a specific effect based on a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c. Specifically, if there is no look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a does not decide to execute a specific effect. That is, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small win occurrence command, if the second special reserved number is 0, it does not decide to execute a specific effect. Not deciding to execute a specific effect is equivalent to deciding not to execute a specific effect.

[0156] In the specific high probability state, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small win occurrence command, if a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game is stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a judges whether the look-ahead command is classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5. In addition, in the specific low probability state, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small win occurrence command, if a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game is stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a judges whether the look-ahead command is classified as the look-ahead command SC1. In other words, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small win occurrence command, the sub-CPU 41a judges whether a special game that will be the first big win is present in the second special game whose execution is pending. When the sub-CPU 41a judges that there is a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game in the specific high probability state, the sub-CPU 41a performs a specific effect lottery with a winning probability when there is a second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. Similarly, when the sub-CPU 41a judges that there is a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game in the specific low probability state, the sub-CPU 41a performs a specific effect lottery with a winning probability when there is a second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. On the other hand, when the sub-CPU 41a judges that there is no look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game in the specific high probability state, the sub-CPU 41a performs a specific effect lottery with a winning probability when there is no second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. Similarly, when the sub-CPU 41a judges that there is no look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game in the specific low probability state, the sub-CPU 41a performs a specific effect lottery with a winning probability when there is no second special game that becomes the first big win among the second special games whose execution is pending. The specific effect lottery may be configured to be performed, for example, by obtaining a random number generated in the sub-substrate 41 by the sub-CPU 41a as the value of the random number to be used in the specific effect lottery, and using the value of the random number and a judgment value stored in the sub-ROM 41b.

[0157] When the special effect lottery is won, the sub-CPU 41a determines the type of the special effect from among the first to third special effects. When the sub-CPU 41a determines that the second special game that will result in the first jackpot is present among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the sub-CPU 41a determines the type of the special effect based on the selection rate when the second special game that will result in the first jackpot is present among the second special games whose execution is suspended. On the other hand, when the sub-CPU 41a determines that the second special game that will result in the first jackpot is not present among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the sub-CPU 41a determines the type of the special effect based on the selection rate when the second special game that will result in the first jackpot is not present among the second special games whose execution is suspended. For example, the sub-CPU 41a may acquire a random number generated within the sub-substrate 41 as the value of the random number used in the special effect lottery, and the type of the special effect may be determined based on the random number. After determining the type of the special effect, the sub-CPU 41a controls so that the determined type of the special effect is executed. At this time, the sub-CPU 41a executes the first stage of presentation and then executes the second stage of presentation.

[0158] As described above, in this embodiment, the specific effect is an effect that suggests whether or not there is a special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution has been suspended. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the special effect is an effect that notifies the player that there is a special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution has been suspended. And, in this embodiment, the display content of the effect display device 25 when the specific effect is executed is different from the display content of the effect display device 25 when the special effect is executed.

[0159] Here, based on Figure 12, we will explain the case where a special effect is executed when the second special game ends and a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, and the case where a special effect is executed when the second special game ends and a first big win game is awarded.

[0160] As shown in FIG. 12, during the execution of the first special game, the second special game that will be a small win ends at timing t21 and a small win game is awarded. At timing t21, the first control is interrupted and the first special game being executed is stopped based on the fact that the second special game ends and a small win game is awarded. At this time, it is assumed that there is a second special game that will be the first big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended, and based on that, it is decided to execute a specific effect. Then, during the small win game, the specific effect starts at timing t22 and ends at timing t23. Incidentally, if the small win game ends at a timing before timing t23, the specific effect ends at the timing when the small win game before timing t23 ends. The specific effect in this embodiment is an effect that can be executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended when a small win game is awarded, and is executed depending on whether there is a special game that will be the first big win among the second special games that are the targets of the specific effect. For this reason, the specific effect executed at timing t22 is executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended at the time of timing t21. In this embodiment, when the first special game is executed in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, when the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, a specific effect can be executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended. In this embodiment, when the first special game is executed, when the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, a specific effect is executed depending on whether the second special game resulting in a first big win is among the second special games whose execution is suspended. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, when a small win game is awarded in either the normal low probability state or the special state, a specific effect is not executed.That is, in this embodiment, when the first special game is being executed in either the normal low probability state or the special state, and the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the specific presentation is configured to be unable to be executed.

[0161] The specific effect can be executed only during a small win game, and cannot be executed during a big win game. That is, in this embodiment, when the first big win game is awarded, the specific effect is not executed, while when the small win game is awarded, the specific effect is executed depending on whether there is a special game that will be the first big win among the special games whose execution is suspended. And, in this embodiment, when the first special game is being executed, when the second special game that will be the first big win ends and the first big win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the specific effect cannot be executed.

[0162] Also, after the small win game ends at timing t24, if the first special reserved number is 1 or more, the first control is started and the first special game is started. Similarly, after the small win game ends at timing t24, if the second special reserved number is 1 or more, the second control is started and the second special game is started. Then, at timing t25, the execution of the second special game that becomes the first big win, whose execution was reserved at timing t21, is started. Incidentally, even if the first special game that becomes a loss ends at timing t26 during the execution of the second special game that started to be executed at timing t25, the second control is not interrupted and the second special game continues to be executed. After that, when the second special game that becomes the first big win that started to be executed at timing t25 ends at timing t27, if the first special game is being executed, the first control is interrupted and the first special game being executed is stopped based on the fact that the second special game ends and the first big win game is awarded. At this time, it is assumed that the second special game that will result in the first jackpot is among the second special games whose execution is suspended, and that it is decided to execute a special effect based on that. Then, during the first jackpot game, the special effect starts at timing t28 and ends at timing t29. The special effect is an effect that can be executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended when the ending period starts, and is executed depending on whether the special game that will result in the first jackpot is among the second special games that are the target of the special effect. For this reason, the specific effect executed at timing t28 is executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended at the time of timing t28. In other words, even if the second special game whose execution was suspended before timing t28 during the first jackpot game is being played, it can be the target of the special effect. In this manner, in this embodiment, when the first special game is being executed and the second special game resulting in the first jackpot ends and the first jackpot game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and while the first control is interrupted, a special presentation can be executed targeting the second special game whose execution is put on hold.

[0163] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. (1) When the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, when the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the first control related to the execution of the first special game is interrupted and a special effect is executed. In this way, by executing the special effect while the first control is interrupted, attention can be drawn to the second special game whose execution is suspended, and interest can be increased. However, when the second special game ends and a small win game is awarded, there is a risk that interest in the special game will decrease due to the interruption of the first control related to the execution of the first special game, but the execution of the special effect can suppress the decrease in interest.

[0164] (2) The special state is more advantageous than the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state. Therefore, when the special state is in a state, the expectation for the game is more likely to be raised than when the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state are in a state. In such a special state, when the second special game is a small win and the first control is interrupted, the specific performance is not executed. On the other hand, the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state are less advantageous than the special state, so that the expectation for the game is less likely to be raised. In the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state, which are less advantageous than such a special state, when the second special game is a small win and the first control is interrupted, the specific performance is executed, so that the interest can be effectively increased. This allows the player to enjoy the game and increase the interest in all of the special states, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state.

[0165] (3) In the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the first special game being executed is not executed, while the presentation game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed. Therefore, in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state, it is easy to understand that the second special game, which is a small win, ends and a small win game is awarded. This makes it easy to draw attention to the execution of the specific presentation, and can improve interest. Furthermore, in the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the presentation game corresponding to the second special game, which is the target of the specific presentation, is executed, so that attention to the presentation game can be increased, and interest can be improved.

[0166] (4) In the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the first specific game corresponding to the first special game being executed is executed, and the second specific game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed. Also, in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the effect game corresponding to the first special game being executed is not executed, while the effect game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed. Therefore, while the specific game allows the player to understand that the first special game and the second special game are being executed, it is possible to easily understand that the second special game, which is a small win, ends and a small win game is awarded by the effect game. Therefore, it is possible to easily allow the player to understand the special game being executed, and it is possible to easily draw attention to the fact that a small win game is awarded and a specific effect is executed, thereby improving the interest.

[0167] (5) When the first jackpot game is awarded, the specific performance is not executed. For example, when a small jackpot game is awarded, the degree of advantage is lower than when the first jackpot game is awarded, so it is difficult to elevate the player's mood compared to when the first jackpot game is awarded. However, when a small jackpot game is awarded, it is possible to execute a specific performance that is not executed when the first jackpot game is awarded. Therefore, when a small jackpot game is awarded, although the degree of advantage is lower than when the first jackpot game is awarded, it is possible to obtain a privilege that cannot be obtained when the first jackpot game is awarded, that is, "the specific performance is executed," and thus it is possible to improve the interest.

[0168] (6) Although the first special game and the second special game can be executed simultaneously, when the second special game becomes a jackpot, the first control is interrupted and a special effect is executed. By executing a special effect while the first control is interrupted, attention can be drawn to the second special game whose execution is suspended, and interest can be increased. The display content of the effect display device 25 when a specific effect is executed is different from the display content of the effect display device 25 when a special effect is executed. Therefore, a wide variety of effects can be executed for the display content of the effect targeted at the second special game whose execution is suspended, and interest can be increased.

[0169] (7) The specific presentation is executed depending on whether there is a second special game which will result in a first big win, which has a higher advantage than a small win, so that it is possible to draw attention to the second special game whose execution is on hold, thereby increasing interest.

[0170] (8) When a small win game is awarded, a specific effect is executed depending on whether there is a special game that will be the first big win among the special games whose execution is suspended. Therefore, even if a small win game with a lower advantage than when the first big win game is awarded is awarded, the specific effect is executed, so that the expectation that the first big win game with a higher advantage will be awarded among the special games whose execution is suspended can be heightened, and interest can be improved. And, since the specific effect is executed depending on whether the first big win game with a higher advantage will be awarded when a small win game is awarded, the expectation that the first big win game with a higher advantage will be awarded in addition to the award of the small win game can be heightened, and interest can be improved.

[0171] (9) The specific performance is executed according to whether there is a special game that will be the first big win among the reserved symbol variation games. On the other hand, the specific performance is executed regardless of whether there is a special game that will be a small win among the reserved special games. In this way, when a small win game with a low advantage is awarded, the specific performance is not executed according to whether a small win game with a similarly low advantage is awarded, but the specific performance is executed according to whether a first big win game with a high advantage is awarded. For example, even if a performance is executed according to whether a small win game with a low advantage is awarded when a small win game with a low advantage is awarded, it is difficult to increase interest in the specific performance because it is executed according to whether the situation will be the same as the current situation again. On the other hand, when a small win game with a low advantage is awarded, if the performance is executed according to whether a first big win game with a high advantage is awarded, it is easy to increase interest in the specific performance because it is executed according to whether the situation will be more like a game ending situation than the current situation.

[0172] (10) The special effects are not executed when there is a special game resulting in a small win among the special games whose execution is suspended, but there is no special game resulting in a first big win. On the other hand, the special effects are executed even when there is no special game resulting in a small win among the special games whose execution is suspended, if there is a special game resulting in a first big win among the special games whose execution is suspended. In this way, the special effects are executed regardless of whether there is a special game resulting in a small win among the special games whose execution is suspended. On the other hand, if there is a first big win among the special games whose execution is suspended, the special effects are executed. For example, when a first big win game, which has a higher advantage than a small win game, is awarded, even if a special effect is executed when there is a special game resulting in a small win among the special games whose execution is suspended, it is difficult to excite the player because the small win game has a lower advantage than the first big win game. On the other hand, if a special presentation is made when there is a special game that will result in a first jackpot among the special games whose execution is pending, it is possible to heighten the anticipation that a further highly advantageous first jackpot game will be awarded when a highly advantageous first jackpot game has been awarded, thereby increasing interest.

[0173] (11) When a small win is awarded in a special state, the expectation of winning a game ball is higher than when a small win is awarded in a specific low probability state or a specific high probability state. In this way, a specific effect that is not executed in a special state is executed only in a specific low probability state or a specific high probability state where the expectation of winning a game ball is low. In a specific low probability state or a specific high probability state where the expectation of winning a game ball is low, a specific effect is executed depending on whether a second special game that will result in a big win is included among the second special games whose execution is suspended, thereby preventing a decline in interest.

[0174] (12) In the special state, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state, the frequency of the small win game being awarded per unit time is higher than in the normal low probability state. In addition, when a small win game is awarded in a special state, the expectation of winning a game ball is higher than when a small win game is awarded in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state. In such a special state where the expectation of winning a game ball is high, the mood is more likely to be lifted by the award of a small win game compared to the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state. On the other hand, in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state where the expectation of winning a game ball is low, the mood is less likely to be lifted by the award of a small win game compared to the special state, and further, there is a risk of interest being reduced by the high frequency of the award of small win games. When a small win game is awarded in such a specific low probability state and specific high probability state, a specific performance is executed depending on whether there is a special game that will be a big win among the second special games whose execution is suspended, so that a decrease in interest can be suppressed.

[0175] (13) The specific presentation is executed depending on whether there is a second special game which will result in the first jackpot, which is the jackpot with the highest advantage among the jackpots, and therefore it is possible to draw attention to the second special game whose execution is on hold, thereby increasing interest.

[0176] The above-described embodiment can be modified as follows. The above-described embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

[0177] The specific and special effects may be performed by the decorative lamps 17 instead of or in addition to the effect display device 25. The specific and special effects may be performed by the speakers 18 instead of or in addition to the effect display device 25.

[0178] The gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to execute a special effect during a jackpot game with respect to one or both of a first special game whose execution is suspended and a second special game whose execution is suspended. For example, the gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to execute a special effect during a jackpot game when a first special game that results in a first jackpot is among the first special games that are targets of the special effect.

[0179] The gaming machine 10 may be configured to be capable of executing a specific effect for one or both of the first special game and the second special game during a small win game. That is, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a specific effect for the first special game during execution of the first special game, when the first special game is being executed and the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, and when the first control is interrupted, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a specific effect for the first special game during execution of the first special game, when the first special game is being executed and the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, and when the first control is interrupted, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a specific effect depending on whether the first special game resulting in a first big win is among the first special games during execution of the first special game.

[0180] The game machine 10 may be configured so that a small win lottery may be performed when a game ball enters the first starting hole 26. When the first special game results in a small win and the first special symbol display unit 22a displays a small win symbol as a fixed stop during the execution of the second special game, the main CPU 40a may force the second special game being executed to display a losing symbol as a fixed stop on the second special symbol display unit 22b. For example, when the second special game is being executed and the first special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the second control may be interrupted, and a specific effect may be executed for the first special game whose execution is suspended while the second control is interrupted. In addition, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a specific effect for the second special game whose execution is suspended when the second control is interrupted when the first special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded while the second special game is being executed. The probability of a small win triggered by the entry of a game ball into the first starting hole 26 may be set arbitrarily. In addition, the gaming machine 10 may execute a specific effect during the small win game when the first special game ends and a small win game is awarded in a normal low probability state. In addition, the gaming machine 10 may not execute a specific effect during the small win game when the second special game ends and a small win game is awarded in a normal low probability state.

[0181] The special effect may be executed in place of the ending effect. That is, when the special effect is executed, the gaming machine 10 may execute the special effect in place of the ending effect, without executing the ending effect.

[0182] The special effects may be executable only when some of the multiple types of jackpot games (for example, the first jackpot game) are awarded. For example, if the special effects are configured to be executable only during the first jackpot game, the attention to the award of the first jackpot game will be higher, and interest can be improved. In addition, for example, the special effects may be configured to be executable during the second jackpot game and the third jackpot game among the first to third jackpot games. In this configuration, the second and third jackpot games, which are less advantageous than the first jackpot game, can be enjoyed, and interest can be improved.

[0183] The special effects may be executed not only during the ending period, but also during the opening period or during a round game. When executing a special effect during a round game, it may be executed in a specific round determined in advance, or the round game in which the special effect is executed may be determined by lottery. In this case, it is assumed that the number of special games pending execution is greater in the round game closer to the final round game in the jackpot game, and the attention to the execution of the special effect can be increased. As a result, the attention to the execution of the special effect gradually increases as the jackpot game progresses, and the interest can be improved. In addition, the special effect may be executed over multiple round games. In addition, the timing of executing the special effect may be different depending on the type of jackpot game. For example, the special effect may be executed during the opening period during the first jackpot game, and the special effect may be executed during the ending period during the second jackpot game and the third jackpot game.

[0184] The gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to execute a special effect when there is a special game resulting in a second jackpot among the special games on hold even if there is no special game resulting in a first jackpot among the special games on hold. Similarly, the gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to execute a special effect when there is a special game resulting in a third jackpot among the special games on hold even if there is no special game resulting in a first jackpot among the special games on hold.

[0185] The content of the special effects may be different depending on whether there is "1" second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games that are the subject of the special effects or whether there are "2 or more" second special games that will result in the first jackpot.

[0186] When it is decided to execute a special effect, it may be restricted from newly executing a special effect until all second special games that are the subject of the special effect at the time of deciding to execute the special effect are completed. For example, when it is decided to execute a special effect when the execution of two second special games is on hold, it may be prohibited from deciding to execute a special effect until the end of two second special games after the end of a small win game.

[0187] When there is no second special game that will result in the first big win among the second special games that are the target of the special effects, the winning probability of the special effect lottery may be different when there is a second special game that will result in the second big win, when there is a second special game that will result in the third big win, when there is a second special game that will result in a small win, and when there is a second special game that will result in a loss. For example, the winning probability of the special effect lottery may be increased in the order of "loss < small win < third big win < second big win". Also, when there is a second special game that will result in the first big win among the second special games that are the target of the special effects, the special effects may be configured to be executed without fail.

[0188] In the special state, when the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game occurs, a performance different from the small win performance and the specific performance in the above embodiment may be executed during the small win game. For example, in the special state, when a game ball enters the second large winning hole 31 during a small win game, an image including the text information "+15" may be displayed on the performance display device 25 to notify the award of 15 game balls. On the other hand, in the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state, when the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game occurs, the above "performance different from the small win performance and the specific performance" may not be executed during the small win game.

[0189] ·When the main CPU 40a starts the first special game while the second special game which will result in a big win is being executed, the first special game may be forcibly set as a loss. Similarly, when the main CPU 40a starts the second special game while the first special game which will result in a big win is being executed, the second special game may be forcibly set as a loss. Also, when the main CPU 40a starts the first special game while the second special game which will result in a small win is being executed, the first special game may be forcibly set as a loss. Similarly, when the main CPU 40a starts the second special game while the first special game which will result in a small win is being executed, the second special game may be forcibly set as a loss. Also, when the main CPU 40a starts the second special game while the first special game which will result in a big win is being executed, the second special game may be forcibly set as a loss. In this way, when "forcibly set as a loss", the main CPU 40a may forcibly set as a loss after performing a winning lottery, or may forcibly set as a loss without performing a winning lottery.

[0190] The types of special effects are not limited to the three types described in the above embodiment, but may be two or less, or may be four or more. The form of the special effects may be changed, and for example, even if there are multiple types of special effects, some of the effects (for example, the first stage of the effects in the above embodiment) may not be common.

[0191] For example, if a big win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in one of the first and second special games during the execution of the other special game, the one special game may be interrupted, and the execution of the interrupted one special game may be resumed after the big win game ends. Similarly, if a small win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in one of the first and second special games during the execution of the other special game, the one special game may be interrupted, and the execution of the interrupted one special game may be resumed after the small win game ends. Also, if a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in one of the first and second special games during the execution of the other special game, a losing symbol may be derived in the one special game, and the one special game may be ended. In addition, if a losing symbol is displayed as a confirmed stop in one of the first and second special games while the other special game is being executed, the one special game may be interrupted, and the execution of the interrupted one special game may be resumed after a variable interval has elapsed after the end of the other special game.

[0192] When the game state is controlled to any one of the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state, if the first special game results in a jackpot, the execution of the presentation game based on the second special game may be stopped even if the second special game is being executed, and a predetermined jackpot notification presentation may be executed on the presentation display device 25. The predetermined jackpot notification presentation may be a presentation in which an image including text information such as "Opportunity Changing" is displayed on the presentation display device 25.

[0193] In the variable time shortening state, the variable time of only the second special game out of the first and second special games may be shortened (or may be more likely to be shortened) compared to the non-variation shortening state. In this case, for example, in the variable time shortening state, the variable time of the first special game may be longer (or may be more likely to be longer) compared to the non-variation shortening state.

[0194] After the jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game, the jackpot game may be awarded when a game ball enters the gate 33. In this case, after the jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop, the jackpot game may be in a waiting state until the game ball enters the gate 33. At this time, the effect display device 25 may be configured to execute an effect that encourages the game ball to enter the gate 33. Here, the gate 33 is taken as an example, but the jackpot game may be awarded when a game ball enters an entrance other than the gate 33. The entrance other than the gate 33 may be an entrance where the payout condition of the prize ball is established when the game ball enters, or it may be an entrance where the start condition of the game such as the special game or the normal game is not established unless the payout condition of the prize ball is established. Similarly, after a small win symbol is displayed as a confirmed stop in a special game, a small win game may be awarded when a game ball enters gate 33, just as when a big win symbol is derived in a special game.

[0195] When controlled to any of the special state, specific low probability state, and specific high probability state, a presentation game based on the first special game may be executed. Also, when controlled to the normal low probability state, a presentation game based on the second special game may be executed. For example, when a presentation game based on the first special game and a presentation game based on the second special game are executed, each presentation game may be executed separately in different display areas of the presentation display device 25, or each presentation game may be executed separately on different display devices.

[0196] The number of game balls consumed in the above embodiment (number of game balls shot) is the number of game balls shot into the game area 21, and can also be called the number of valid balls. The number of game balls paid out in the above embodiment is the number of game balls paid out as prize balls, and can also be called the number of prize balls. This number of prize balls may be the number of prize balls when all balls enter the prize holes, or it may be the number of prize balls excluding the prize balls paid out when balls enter some of the prize holes.

[0197] Pachinko gaming machines that can be controlled to a high probability state include a specification that controls the game to a high probability state until the next big win is awarded, a specification that controls the game to a high probability state until a big win lottery is won (falling machine), and a specification that controls the game to a high probability state until a predetermined number of pattern variation games are completed (ST machine). In addition, the pachinko gaming machines that can be controlled to a high probability state include a specification that controls the game to a high probability state when a game ball passes through a specific area (V probability change machine). The pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied in any of these specifications. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine may be a pachinko gaming machine with a specification that combines the above-mentioned falling machine and V probability change machine. In addition, the V probability change machine has a specification that has a single big prize opening and generates a specific round game. The V-type probability variable machine has a specification that generates a specific round game by providing a large prize winning port (V prize winning port) that is opened in a specific round game and a large prize winning port that is opened in a round game other than the specific round game. Each embodiment may be embodied in a V-type probability variable machine of any specification. The above embodiment does not have to be a gaming machine that can be controlled to a small hit rush.

[0198] In the above embodiment, the sub-substrate 41 may be a sub-general control substrate, and a display control substrate that specializes in controlling the performance display device 25, a light emission control substrate that specializes in controlling the decorative lamps 17, and a sound control substrate that specializes in controlling the speaker 18 may be provided separately from the sub-substrate 41. Such a sub-general control substrate and a substrate that controls other performances may be included in the sub-substrate.

[0199] In the above embodiment, the main CPU 40a of the main board 40 and the sub-CPU 41a of the sub-board 41 may be mounted on a single board. Also, in the above other example, the display control board, the light emission control board, and the sound control board may be arbitrarily combined to form a single board or multiple boards.

[0200] The technical ideas that can be understood from this embodiment and its modifications will be described. (i) The game state includes a normal state, and in the first game state, the number of times the small win game is awarded per unit time is greater than in the normal state, making it possible to increase the number of balls held, whereas in the second game state, the number of times the small win game is awarded per unit time is greater than in the normal state, but the number of balls held does not increase.

[0201] (b) The probability that the second special pattern change game will result in a small win is the same in all of the first gaming state, the second gaming state, and the normal state.

[0202] (c) The probability that the second special pattern changing game will result in the small win is higher than the probability that the second special pattern changing game will result in the big win, and when the first special pattern changing game is being executed and the second special pattern changing game which will result in the big win ends and the big win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the specific presentation is not executed.

[0203] (ii) In the second gaming state, when the second special pattern changing game is being executed and the first special pattern changing game resulting in the small win is ended and the small win game is awarded, the second control is interrupted, and when the second control is interrupted, the specific presentation is executed depending on whether the first special pattern changing game resulting in the big win is among the first special pattern changing games whose execution is pending.

[0204] (E) A gaming machine capable of suspending the execution of a pattern change game, awarding a small win game after the end of a pattern change game resulting in a small win, and awarding a big win game after the end of a pattern change game resulting in a big win, the gaming machine is provided with a first start port, a second start port different from the first start port, game control means capable of controlling the execution of the pattern change game, game state control means for controlling the game state, and effect execution means for executing effects, and the pattern change game includes a first special pattern change game that can be executed in response to a game ball entering the first start port, and a game ball entering the second start port. and a second special symbol changing game that can be executed in response to a ball entering the reel. The game control means is capable of performing a first control regarding the execution of the first special symbol changing game and a second control regarding the execution of the second special symbol changing game. The first special symbol changing game and the second special symbol changing game can be executed simultaneously. The game state includes a first game state and a second game state. When the small win game is awarded in the first game state, the odds of the small win are greater than when the small win game is awarded in the second game state. The game ball is easily acquired when a game is awarded, and the effects include a specific effect that can be executed for a symbol change game whose execution is suspended, and in the first game state, when the first special symbol change game is being executed and the second special symbol change game which results in the small win is ended and the small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the specific effect is not executed, whereas in the second game state, when the first special symbol change game is being executed and the small win game is awarded, the specific effect is not executed. When the second special symbol changing game resulting in a win is ended and the small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the specific performance is executed depending on whether the second special symbol changing game resulting in the big win is included in the second special symbol changing game whose execution is suspended, and in the first game state, when the first special symbol changing game is being executed, when the second special symbol changing game resulting in a small win is ended and the small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted,A predetermined effect different from the specific effect can be executed, while in the second game state, when the first special symbol changing game is being executed and the second special symbol changing game resulting in the small win is ended and the small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the predetermined effect is not executed and it is decided to execute the specific effect, the specific effect is executed, but until the second special symbol changing game whose execution is pending that is the subject of the specific effect is ended, the specific effect is restricted from being newly executed even if the execution of the second special symbol changing game resulting in the big win is newly suspended.

[0205] (e) In the case where the specific effect is executed while the first control is interrupted, the effect execution means executes an effect to be executed regardless of whether or not there is a second special pattern changing game resulting in the jackpot among the second special pattern changing games whose execution is suspended, and then executes an effect to be executed depending on whether or not there is a second special pattern changing game resulting in the jackpot among the second special pattern changing games whose execution is suspended.

[0206] (g) The effects include a special effect that can be executed for the pattern changing game whose execution is suspended, and when the first special pattern changing game is being executed, and the second special pattern changing game which is the jackpot ends and the jackpot game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, if there is no second special pattern changing game which is the jackpot among the second special pattern changing games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is not executed, whereas when the first special pattern changing game is being executed, and when the second special pattern changing game which is the jackpot ends and the jackpot game is awarded, and when the first control is interrupted, and when there is a second special pattern changing game which is the jackpot among the second special pattern changing games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is executed, and the display content of the effect execution means when the specific effect is executed is different from the display content of the effect execution means when the special effect is executed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0207] 10... gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine), 25... performance display device, 26... first start port, 27... second start port, 40a... main CPU, 41a... sub CPU.

Claims

[Claim 1] In a gaming machine in which the execution of a symbol-changing game can be suspended, a specific winning game is awarded after the end of a symbol-changing game resulting in a specific winning, and a special winning game is awarded after the end of a symbol-changing game resulting in a special winning, A performance execution means for executing a performance is provided, When the special winning game is awarded, the advantage is higher than when the specific winning game is awarded, The effects include specific effects that can be executed for a symbol variation game whose execution is suspended, The specific performance can be executed for a symbol variation game whose execution is suspended when the specific winning game is awarded, regardless of whether the game ball enters a winning hole into which the game ball is permitted in the specific winning game. When the specific winning game is awarded, if there is a symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, the probability of executing the specific performance is higher than when there is no symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended; The specific performance is executed regardless of whether there is a symbol variation game that will be the specific winning among the symbol variation games whose execution is suspended, In the case where the specific performance is executed when the specific winning game is awarded, the performance execution means executes a first performance that is executed regardless of whether or not there is a symbol change game that will result in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, and then executes a second performance that is executed depending on whether or not there is a symbol change game that will result in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended; When it is decided to execute the specific performance and the specific performance is executed, even if the specific performance ends, the specific performance will not be executed again until the pattern change game that is the target of the specific performance ends, even if the execution of the new pattern change game that will be the special hit is put on hold. The effects include a special effect that can be executed for a symbol variation game whose execution is suspended when the special winning game is awarded, When the specific winning game is awarded, the special performance is not executed, When the special winning game is awarded, even if there is a symbol change game that will be the specific winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, if there is no symbol change game that will be the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, the special performance is not executed, When the special winning game is awarded, if there is a symbol change game that will result in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, the special performance is executed even if there is no symbol change game that will result in the specific winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended. A gaming machine characterized in that the display content of the effect execution means when the specific effect is executed is different from the display content of the effect execution means when the special effect is executed.

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