Ball game machine

Abstract

To smoothly progress a game in a pinball game machine requiring shooting of game balls in different ways according to a game state.SOLUTION: A pinball game machine includes: easy-ball-entry means for setting an easy-ball-entry state for facilitating entry of game balls into a second start pocket positioned in a second game area; and ball hitting suggestion means for executing a shooting suggestion for suggesting shooting of game balls to the second game area to a player. The ball hitting suggestion means executes a shooting suggestion in a first suggestion mode when a first special pattern is varied and a second special pattern is not varied in an easy-ball-entry state, executes a shooting suggestion in a second suggestion mode when the first special pattern and the second special pattern are not varied in an easy-ball-entry state, and executes a shooting suggestion in a third suggestion mode when the second special pattern is varied in an easy-ball-entry state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 20

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This specification discloses technology relating to pinball gaming machines (also called pachinko gaming machines or pachinko tables). [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a pinball game machine that can set an easy-to-enter state in which it is easier to enter the starting hole than in normal play, and requires the ball to be hit on either the left or right side of the play area depending on the play state. Types of easy-to-enter states include an easy-to-enter state in which the winning probability is set to a low probability (so-called "time-saving play"), and an easy-to-enter state in which the winning probability is set to a high probability (so-called "probability-changing play"). Types of time-saving play include a time-saving play that operates after the end of a jackpot (so-called "a time-saving"), a time-saving play that operates when a jackpot is not won up to a specified number of times during a low probability (so-called "b time-saving"), and a time-saving play that operates when a specific special pattern is displayed during a low probability (so-called "c time-saving"). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-013042 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There was room for improvement in terms of smoothly progressing the game in pinball gaming machines in which different game balls need to be hit depending on the game status. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The technology disclosed in this specification can be realized in the following forms.

[0006] (1) In one embodiment disclosed in this specification, a pinball game machine includes a first starting port located in a first game area where game balls launched at less than a predetermined launch intensity mainly roll; a first hit / miss judgment means for executing a first hit / miss judgment based on the ball entering the first starting port; a first special pattern display means for displaying a first special pattern variably based on the judgment result by the first hit / miss judgment means and then displaying a final result; a second starting port located in a second game area where game balls launched at the predetermined launch intensity or higher mainly roll; a second hit / miss judgment means for executing a second hit / miss judgment different from the first hit / miss judgment based on the ball entering the second starting port; a second special pattern display means for displaying a second special pattern variably based on the judgment result by the second hit / miss judgment means and then displaying a final result; a ball entry ease means for setting a ball entry ease state in which it is easier to enter the second starting port than in the normal game; and a shot suggestion means for executing a shot suggestion to a player to shoot a game ball into the second game area. In this pinball game machine, the hit suggestion means executes the hit suggestion in a first suggestion mode when the first special symbol is displayed in a varying manner while the second special symbol is not displayed in a varying manner in the easy-to-score state; executes the hit suggestion in a second suggestion mode different from the first suggestion mode when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not displayed in a varying manner in the easy-to-score state; executes the hit suggestion in a third suggestion mode different from the first suggestion mode and the second suggestion mode when the second special symbol is displayed in a varying manner in the easy-to-score state. According to this type of pinball game machine, the suggestion mode suggesting the launch of the game ball into the second game area is changed depending on whether or not the first and second special symbols are displayed in a ball-entering state, so that the player can be encouraged to play smoothly. In particular, it is preferable that the second suggestion mode emphasizes the launch of the game ball into the second game area more than the third suggestion mode, and it is preferable that the first suggestion mode emphasizes the launch of the game ball into the second game area more than the second suggestion mode.

[0007] (2) A pinball game machine in one embodiment disclosed in this specification includes: a first starting port located in a first game area in which game balls launched at less than a predetermined launch intensity mainly roll; a first winning / losing determination means for executing a first winning / losing determination based on a ball entering the first starting port; a first special pattern display means for variably displaying a first special pattern based on a determination result by the first winning / losing determination means and then displaying a final result; a second starting port located in a second game area in which game balls launched at the predetermined launch intensity or higher mainly roll; a second winning / losing determination means for executing a second winning / losing determination different from the first winning / losing determination based on a ball entering the second starting port; a second special pattern display means for variably displaying a second special pattern based on a determination result by the second winning / losing determination means and then displaying a final result; and a ball entry easy state in which it is easier to enter the second starting port than in the normal game. the easy-to-score state, the first win / no-win determination and the second win / no-win determination are executed; a special game means for executing a special game that is more advantageous to the player than a normal game by opening a large prize opening based on the results of the first win / no-win determination and the second win / no-win determination; a time-saving game means for executing a time-saving game that sets the winning probability of the special game based on the first win / no-win determination and the second win / no-win determination in the easy-to-score state to the same normal probability as the normal game; a special game means for executing a special game that sets the winning probability of the special game based on the first win / no-win determination and the second win / no-win determination in the easy-to-score state to a higher probability than the normal probability; and a hit suggestion means for executing a hit suggestion that suggests to the player to hit a game ball into the second game area, and the special game based on the second win / no-win determination is more advantageous to the player than the special game based on the first win / no-win determination. In this pinball game machine, the hit suggestion means executes the hit suggestion in a first suggestion mode when the first special symbol is displayed variably while the second special symbol is not displayed variably during the special probability game; executes the hit suggestion in a second suggestion mode different from the first suggestion mode when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not displayed variably during the special probability game and when the second special symbol is not displayed variably during the time-limited game; executes the hit suggestion in a third suggestion mode different from the first suggestion mode and the second suggestion mode when the second special symbol is displayed variably during the time-limited game and the special probability game. According to this type of pinball game machine, the suggestion mode suggesting the launch of the game ball into the second game area is changed depending on whether or not the first and second special symbols are displayed in a ball-winning state including time-saving play and probability variation play, so that the player can be encouraged to play smoothly. In particular, it is preferable that the second suggestion mode is a mode that emphasizes the launch of the game ball into the second game area more than the third suggestion mode, and it is preferable that the first suggestion mode is a mode that emphasizes the launch of the game ball into the second game area more than the second suggestion mode. This makes it possible to encourage the player to play smoothly so that the player can avoid a situation in which the player wins the special game based on the first win / loss judgment rather than the special game based on the second win / loss judgment in the probability variation play, which is relatively disadvantageous to the player.

[0008] (3) A pinball game machine in one embodiment disclosed in this specification includes: a first starting port located in a first game area in which game balls launched at less than a predetermined launch intensity mainly roll; a first winning / losing determination means for executing a first winning / losing determination based on a ball entering the first starting port; a first special pattern display means for variably displaying a first special pattern based on a determination result by the first winning / losing determination means and then displaying a final result; a second starting port located in a second game area in which game balls launched at the predetermined launch intensity or higher mainly roll; a second winning / losing determination means for executing a second winning / losing determination different from the first winning / losing determination based on a ball entering the second starting port; a second special pattern display means for variably displaying a second special pattern based on a determination result by the second winning / losing determination means and then displaying a final result; and an easy-to-enter ball entry means for setting an easy-to-enter ball state in which it is easier to enter the second starting port than in the normal game. and a special game means for executing a special game which is more advantageous to the player than a normal game by opening a large prize opening based on the results of the first win / loss judgment and the second win / loss judgment; a first time-saving game means for executing a first time-saving game following the end of the special game, based on the results of the judgment which caused the special game, in which the winning probability of winning the special game through the first win / loss judgment and the second win / loss judgment in the easy-to-score state is set to the same normal probability as that of the normal game; a second time-saving game means for switching from the normal game to a second time-saving game in the easy-to-score state, based on the results of the judgment through the first win / loss judgment and the second win / loss judgment in the normal game; and a shot suggestion means for executing a shot suggestion which suggests to the player to shoot a game ball into the second game area.In this pinball game machine, the hit suggestion means executes the hit suggestion in a first suggestion mode when the first special symbol is displayed in a varying manner while the second special symbol is not displayed in a varying manner during the first time-shortened game; executes the hit suggestion in a second suggestion mode different from the first suggestion mode when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not displayed in a varying manner during the first time-shortened game and when the second special symbol is not displayed in a varying manner during the second time-shortened game; executes the hit suggestion in a third suggestion mode different from the first suggestion mode and the second suggestion mode when the second special symbol is displayed in a varying manner during the first time-shortened game and the second time-shortened game. According to this form of pinball game machine, the suggestion mode suggesting the launch of the game ball into the second game area is changed depending on the presence or absence of the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol in the ball entry easy state including the first time-saving game and the second time-saving game, so that the player can be encouraged to proceed smoothly in the game. In particular, it is preferable that the second suggestion mode is a mode that emphasizes the launch of the game ball into the second game area more than the third suggestion mode, and it is preferable that the first suggestion mode is a mode that emphasizes the launch of the game ball into the second game area more than the second suggestion mode. This makes it possible to emphasize that a game state advantageous to the player continues when the game shifts from the normal game to the first time-saving game following the end of the special game. As a result, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

[0009] The technology disclosed in this specification can be realized in various forms other than a pinball game machine. For example, the technology disclosed in this specification can be realized in the form of a pinball game machine, a control method for a pinball game machine, a program for a pinball game machine, etc. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view showing the configuration of a pachinko gaming machine. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a rear view showing the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the game board of a pachinko game machine. [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine; [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart showing a main routine executed by a main control device. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the special chart start goal confirmation processing executed by the main control unit. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the normal start goal confirmation processing executed by the main control unit. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart showing the special drawing match determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart showing the special drawing match determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing the special drawing match determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart showing the special drawing match determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing the special drawing match determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart showing the jackpot game processing executed by the main control device. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing the jackpot game processing executed by the main control device. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing the jackpot game processing executed by the main control device. [Figure 16] 13 is a flowchart showing the normal map correctness determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart showing the normal map correctness determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 18] 4 is a flowchart showing a normal power operation process executed by the main control device. [Figure 19] 4 is a flowchart showing a normal power operation process executed by the main control device. [Figure 20] 2 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a main control device and a sub integrated control device. FIG. [Figure 21]FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a win / lose display in normal play. [Figure 22] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a win / lose display with a right-hit suggestion. [Figure 23] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a win / lose display with a right-hit suggestion. [Figure 24] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a win / lose display with a right-hit suggestion. [Diagram 25] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a win / lose display with a right-hit suggestion in the second embodiment. [Figure 26] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a win / lose display with a right-hit suggestion in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] A. First embodiment Fig. 1 is a front view showing the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10. Fig. 2 is a rear view showing the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10. Fig. 3 is a front view showing a game board 400 of the pachinko gaming machine 10.

[0012] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is a pinball gaming machine (so-called "CR machine") that supports prepaid cards, and is connected to a card unit 80. The card unit 80 realizes the lending of game balls in the pachinko gaming machine 10 based on information recorded on the prepaid card. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an outer frame 110, an inner frame 120, a front frame 130, a handle 140, and a performance button 160.

[0013] The outer frame 110 of the pachinko gaming machine 10 has a vertically long rectangular shape. The outer frame 110 is fixed to the equipment on which the pachinko gaming machine 10 is installed. The outer frame 110 includes a pair of hinges 112 that support the inner frame 120 so that the inner frame 120 can be opened and closed.

[0014] The inner frame 120 of the pachinko gaming machine 10 has a rectangular shape that fits inside the outer frame 110. The inner frame 120 holds each part of the pachinko gaming machine 10, including the game board 400. The inner frame 120 includes a pair of hinges 122 that support the front frame 130 so that it can be opened and closed.

[0015] An upper tray 124, a lower tray 126, and a keyhole 128 are provided below the front frame 130 in front of the inner frame 120. The upper tray 124 stores game balls to be shot to the game board 400. The lower tray 126 stores game balls that overflow from the upper tray 124. The keyhole 128 accepts an operation to fix and release the inner frame 120 to the outer frame 110 with a key, and also accepts an operation to fix and release the front frame 130 to the inner frame 120 with a key.

[0016] The upper tray 124 is provided with a balance display device 152, a ball lending switch 154, and a settlement switch 156. The balance display device 152 displays the balance of the prepaid card held in the card unit 80. The ball lending switch 154 accepts an instruction from the player to lend out game balls based on the balance of the prepaid card held in the card unit 80. The settlement switch 156 accepts an instruction from the player to return the prepaid card from the card unit 80.

[0017] The front frame 130 of the pachinko game machine 10 is configured to be openable and closable in front of the game board 400. The front frame 130 includes a transparent plate 132 located in front of the game board 400. This allows the player to view the game board 400 through the transparent plate 132. The transparent plate 132 is glass, and the front frame 130 is also called a glass frame. An electric light 134 and a speaker 136 are provided in front of the front frame 130. The electric light 134 emits light in accordance with the progress of the game. The speaker 136 outputs sound in accordance with the progress of the game.

[0018] The handle 140 of the pachinko gaming machine 10 receives an operational input for shooting a gaming ball from a player. The handle 140 is provided on the lower right of the front frame 130 in front of the inner frame 120.

[0019] The effect button 160 of the pachinko gaming machine 10 receives a player's operation input for an effect. The effect button 160 is provided on the upper tray 124 on the front side of the inner frame 120.

[0020] 2, a game ball tank 172 and a payout device 174 are provided on the back surface of the inner frame 120. The game ball tank 172 stores game balls supplied from outside the pachinko gaming machine 10. The payout device 174 pays out the game balls stored in the game ball tank 172 to the upper tray 124.

[0021] Further provided on the back of the inner frame 120 are a main control device 210, a sub integrated control device 220, a performance symbol control device 230, a payout control device 240, a launch control device 250, an external connection terminal board 265, and a power supply board 290. These control devices are computers equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and execute various control processes based on computer programs.

[0022] The main control device 210 controls the progress of the game in the pachinko game machine 10. The sub-integrated control device 220 controls the presentation according to the progress of the game based on a command from the main control device 210. The presentation pattern control device 230 controls the presentation using presentation patterns based on a command from the sub-integrated control device 220. The payout control device 240 controls the payout of game balls based on a command from the main control device 210. The launch control device 250 controls the launch of game balls to the game board 400 based on an operation input from the player to the handle 140. The external connection terminal board 265 outputs a signal indicating the game status in the pachinko game machine 10 to the outside of the pachinko game machine 10.

[0023] The power supply board 290 supplies power to each part of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The power supply board 290 includes a power switch 292 and a RAM clear switch 294. The power switch 292 is configured to be operable by an administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 10, and when pressed to one side, it is turned on to supply power to the pachinko gaming machine 10, and when pressed to the other side, it is turned off to cut off the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10. The RAM clear switch 294 is configured to be operable by an administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 10, and when not operated, it maintains the off state, and when pressed, it is turned on. If the RAM clear switch 294 is pressed when the power is turned on, the main control device 210 is configured to be able to delete (clear) various information related to the progress of the game as a "RAM clear" process.

[0024] A setting change switch 302 and a setting change switch 304 are further provided on the back surface of the inner frame 120. The setting change switch 302 and the setting change switch 304 are provided on the main control device 210. A plurality of setting values ​​(e.g., jackpot probability) that define game characteristics are stored in advance in the main control device 210. The setting change switch 302 accepts an operation to start (ON state) and end (OFF state) the switching of settings related to the game characteristics of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The setting change switch 304 accepts an operation to change the setting when the switching of settings is enabled by the setting change switch 302.

[0025] In this embodiment, when changing the settings of the game characteristics of the pachinko gaming machine 10, the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 10 inserts a key into the setting change switch 302 and rotates the setting change switch 302 to the first position (on state) before turning on the power of the pachinko gaming machine 10. When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 10 is then turned on, the main control device 210 determines that the state is valid for accepting changes to the game characteristics. In this valid state, the main control device 210 changes the setting number to a current setting number by adding 1 each time the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 10 presses the setting change switch 304. For example, the main control device 210 changes the setting number from setting 1 to setting 2, setting 3, setting 4, setting 5, and setting 6 in that order each time the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 10 presses the setting change switch 304, and changes the setting number from setting 6 back to setting 1. Thereafter, when the administrator of the pachinko game machine 10 rotates the setting changeover switch 302 to the second position (off state), the main control device 210 stops accepting input from the setting changeover switch 302 and confirms the setting number accepted immediately before that as the changed setting.

[0026] As shown in Fig. 3, the game board 400 of the pachinko game machine 10 is in the form of a plate facing the front of the pachinko game machine 10. The game board 400 includes a board surface 402, guide rails 404, 406, a plurality of game nails 408, a center case 410, electric lights 414, normal winning openings 421, 422, 423, 424, a normal symbol operation gate 430, a normal electric role 440, a first start opening 451, a second start opening 452, and a large winning opening 460. The game board 400 further includes a normal symbol display device 471, a normal symbol reservation display device 472, a first special symbol display device 473, a first special symbol reservation display device 474, a second special symbol display device 475, a second special symbol reservation display device 476, and a performance symbol display device 480.

[0027] The surface 402 of the game board 400 is the surface facing the front of the pachinko game machine 10. The guide rails 404, 406 of the game board 400 form a game area GA that is approximately circular by surrounding the center of the board surface 402 in a circular shape. The game area GA includes a left hit game area GA1 and a right hit game area GA2. The left hit game area GA1 constitutes the left side of the game area GA and is a first game area in which game balls launched with less than a predetermined launch strength mainly roll. The right hit game area GA2 constitutes the right side of the game area GA and is a second game area in which game balls launched with a predetermined launch strength or more mainly roll. The multiple game nails 408 in the game board 400 are planted on the board surface 402 and form a passage for game balls flowing through the game area GA. The multiple game nails 408 include a windmill nail 409 having a rotating member.

[0028] The center case 410 of the game board 400 is a member provided in the center of the game area GA. The center case 410 forms a passage for game balls flowing through the game area GA. A performance pattern display device 480 is provided in the center of the center case 410. The performance pattern display device 480 displays performance patterns as part of the performance according to the progress of the game. In this embodiment, the performance pattern display device 480 is a liquid crystal display (LCD).

[0029] The illumination 414 of the game board 400 emits light in accordance with the progress of the game. In this embodiment, the illumination 414 is provided on the center case 410. In other embodiments, the illumination 414 may be provided directly on the board surface 402.

[0030] The normal winning openings 421, 422, 423, and 424 of the game board 400 are winning openings configured to allow game balls flowing down the game area GA to enter. The entry of game balls into the normal winning openings 421, 422, 423, and 424 triggers the payout of prize balls.

[0031] The normal symbol activation gate 430 of the game board 400 is a gate configured to allow the game ball flowing down the game area GA to pass through. The passage of the game ball through the normal symbol activation gate 430 triggers a win / lose determination (lottery) using a normal symbol (normal symbol). The determination result (lottery result) of the normal symbol is displayed on the normal symbol display device 471. The normal electric device 440 is disposed on the right side of the center case 410 in the right-hand play area GA2 and below the normal symbol activation gate 430.

[0032] The normal electric device 440 of the game board 400 is a device that can be opened and closed according to the result of the lottery based on the normal symbol. When closed, the normal electric device 440 blocks the passage of the game ball flowing down to the second starting port 452, and when open, it allows the passage of the game ball flowing down to the second starting port 452. The normal electric device 440 is opened only when the judgment result of the normal symbol is a win. The normal electric device 440 is located on the right side of the center case 410 in the right-hand play area GA2 and below the normal symbol activation gate 430.

[0033] The first starting hole 451 of the game board 400 is a winning hole configured to allow game balls flowing down the game area GA to enter. The entry of a game ball into the first starting hole 451 triggers the payout of prize balls and also triggers a win / lose determination (lottery) using the lottery result of the first special symbol (first special symbol). The determination result (lottery result) of the first special symbol is displayed on the first special symbol display device 473. The first starting hole 451 is located below the center of the center case 410 in the left-hand play area GA1.

[0034] The second start opening 452 of the game board 400 is a winning opening configured to allow game balls flowing down the game area GA to enter. The second start opening 452 is configured to increase the game ball entry rate by opening the normal symbol activation gate 430. The entry of a game ball into the second start opening 452 triggers the payout of prize balls and also triggers the execution of a win / lose judgment (lottery) using the second special symbol (second special symbol). The second start opening 452 is located on the right side of the center case 410 in the right-hand play area GA2 and below the normal symbol activation gate 430, together with the normal electric device 440.

[0035] The big prize opening 460 of the game board 400 is an opening that can be opened and closed according to the result of a lottery using at least one of the first and second special symbols. When closed, the big prize opening 460 prevents game balls flowing down the game area GA from entering, and when open, allows game balls flowing down the game area GA to enter. The big prize opening 460 opens only when the result of the lottery using the special symbols is a win (e.g., a big win, a small win, etc.). The entry of a game ball into the big prize opening 460 triggers the payout of a prize ball. The big prize opening 460 is located on the lower right side of the center case 410 in the right-hand play area GA2.

[0036] The normal symbol display device 471 of the game board 400 displays the determination result of the normal symbol based on the passage of the game ball through the normal symbol operation gate 430. The normal symbol display device 471 variably displays a plurality of normal symbols, and then displays the normal symbol according to the determination result, thereby displaying the determination result of the normal symbol.

[0037] The normal symbol reserved display device 472 of the game board 400 displays the number of reserved memories of normal symbols. The reserved memories of normal symbols are the storage of data used for judging whether or not a normal symbol is a winning symbol for which the display process of the judgment result in the normal symbol display device 471 is pending.

[0038] The first special symbol display device 473 of the game board 400 displays the determination result of the first special symbol based on the passage of the game ball into the first starting hole 451. The first special symbol display device 473 variably displays a plurality of first special symbols, and then displays the first special symbol according to the determination result, thereby displaying the determination result of the first special symbol.

[0039] The first special symbol reserved display device 474 of the game board 400 displays the number of reserved memories of the first special symbol. The reserved memories of the first special symbols are memories of data used for judging whether the first special symbol is a hit or a miss, for which the display process of the judgment result in the first special symbol display device 473 is reserved.

[0040] The second special symbol display device 475 of the game board 400 displays the determination result of the second special symbol based on the passage of the game ball into the second starting hole 452. The second special symbol display device 475 variably displays a plurality of second special symbols, and then displays the second special symbol according to the determination result, thereby displaying the determination result of the second special symbol.

[0041] The second special symbol reserved display device 476 of the game board 400 displays the number of reserved memories of the second special symbol. The reserved memories of the second special symbol are memories of data used for judging whether the second special symbol is a hit or a miss, for which the display process of the judgment result in the second special symbol display device 475 is reserved.

[0042] In this embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 10 executes an effect in response to the variation of the first special symbol on the effect symbol display device 480 while the first special symbol is varying, and executes an effect in response to the variation of the second special symbol on the effect symbol display device 480 while the second special symbol is varying. The pachinko gaming machine 10 does not execute the variation of the first special symbol and the variation of the second special symbol simultaneously, but prioritizes the variation of the second special symbol. In other embodiments, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may prioritize the variation of the first special symbol, or may execute the variation of the first special symbol and the variation of the second special symbol simultaneously.

[0043] 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The main control device 210 of the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a RAM 210m, which is a rewritable non-volatile memory. The RAM 210m is configured to be able to store various information related to the progress of the game, regardless of whether or not power is supplied to the pachinko gaming machine 10. In this embodiment, the RAM 210m is configured to be able to store data even without an external power source, by using a battery backup function using a built-in battery.

[0044] The pachinko game machine 10 includes, as an electrical configuration for outputting signals to the main control device 210, a normal winning hole switch 420s, an operating gate switch 430s, a first start hole switch 451s, a second start hole switch 452s, and a count switch 460s in addition to the setting change switch 302 and the setting change switch 304. The normal winning hole switch 420s detects the entry of a game ball into the normal winning holes 421, 422, 423, and 424, and outputs the detection signal to the main control device 210. The operating gate switch 430s detects the passage of a game ball through the normal pattern operating gate 430, and outputs the detection signal to the main control device 210. The first start hole switch 451s detects the entry of a game ball into the first start hole 451, and outputs the detection signal to the main control device 210. The second start hole switch 452s detects the entry of a game ball into the second start hole 452 and outputs the detection signal to the main control device 210. The count switch 460s detects the entry of a game ball into the big prize hole 460 and outputs the detection signal to the main control device 210.

[0045] The pachinko game machine 10 includes an electric configuration that operates based on a control signal from the main control device 210, such as a normal symbol display device 471, a normal symbol reserved display device 472, a first special symbol display device 473, a first special symbol reserved display device 474, a second special symbol display device 475, and a second special symbol reserved display device 476, as well as a normal electric role solenoid 440d and a special prize opening solenoid 460d. The normal electric role solenoid 440d opens and closes the normal electric role 440 based on a control signal from the main control device 210. The special prize opening solenoid 460d opens and closes the special prize opening 460 based on a control signal from the main control device 210.

[0046] The sub-integrated control device 220 is configured to be able to communicate with the main control device 210 in one direction from the main control device 210. The sub-integrated control device 220 accepts operation input from the player via the performance button 160. The sub-integrated control device 220 outputs control signals to the illuminations 134, illuminations 414, speaker 136, and performance pattern control device 230 based on commands from the main control device 210, thereby realizing performances according to the progress of the game. The performance pattern control device 230 controls images to be displayed on the performance pattern display device 480 based on commands from the sub-integrated control device 220. The performance pattern display device 480 displays various performance images including performance patterns based on image signals from the performance pattern control device 230.

[0047] The payout control device 240 is configured to be able to communicate with the main control device 210. The payout control device 240 controls the lending of game balls and the launching of game balls, and also controls the payout of game balls based on a command from the main control device 210. The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a full switch 126s as an electrical configuration that outputs a signal to the payout control device 240. The full switch 126s detects that the game balls stored in the lower tray 126 are full, and outputs the detection signal to the payout control device 240. The payout control device 240 outputs a command to the launch control device 250 to stop launching game balls based on the detection signal from the full switch 126s.

[0048] The launch control device 250 is configured to be able to communicate with the payout control device 240 in one direction from the payout control device 240. The launch control device 250 controls the launch of game balls to the game board 400 based on the player's operation input through the handle 140. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a handle volume 140b, a touch switch 140t, a launch stop switch 140s, and a launch motor 140m as electrical components connected to the launch control device 250. The handle volume 140b detects the amount of operation of the handle 140 by the player corresponding to the launch strength of the game balls, and outputs the detection signal to the launch control device 250. The touch switch 140t detects the player touching the handle 140 using static electricity, and outputs the detection signal to the launch control device 250. The launch stop switch 140s detects the player's operation input indicating the stop of launch of the game balls, and outputs the detection signal to the launch control device 250. The launch motor 140m launches the game ball based on a control signal from the launch control device 250.

[0049] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a rear wiring relay terminal board 260, an external connection terminal board 265, a payout relay terminal board 270, and a card unit terminal board 280 as terminal boards for relaying signals.

[0050] The rear wiring relay terminal board 260 is configured to be able to exchange signals with the main control device 210 and the payout control device 240. The pachinko game machine 10 includes an inner frame opening switch 120s, a front frame opening switch 130s, and a ball-out switch 172s as electrical components that output signals to the rear wiring relay terminal board 260. The inner frame opening switch 120s detects the open state of the inner frame 120 and outputs the detection signal to the rear wiring relay terminal board 260. The front frame opening switch 130s detects the open state of the front frame 130 and outputs the detection signal to the rear wiring relay terminal board 260. The ball-out switch 172s detects a ball-out in the game ball tank 172 and outputs the detection signal to the rear wiring relay terminal board 260.

[0051] The external connection terminal board 265 is configured to be able to relay information about the game output from the main control device 210 via the back wiring relay terminal board 260 to the hall computer 90 that manages the pachinko gaming machine 10. The payout relay terminal board 270 is configured to be able to exchange signals with the back wiring relay terminal board 260. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a payout motor 174d and a payout switch 174s as electrical components connected to the payout relay terminal board 270. The payout motor 174d sends game balls from the payout device 174 to the upper tray 124 based on a control signal from the payout control device 240. The payout switch 174s detects the game balls sent from the payout device 174 and outputs the control signal to the payout control device 240.

[0052] The card unit terminal board 280 is configured to be able to exchange signals between the payout control device 240 and the card unit 80. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a balance display device 152, a ball loan switch 154, and a settlement switch 156 as electrical components connected to the card unit terminal board 280.

[0053] The power supply board 290 is configured to be able to communicate with the main control device 210 in one direction from the power supply board 290. The power supply board 290 outputs signals indicating the states of a power switch 292 and a RAM clear switch 294 to the main control device 210.

[0054] When the pachinko game machine 10 wins a jackpot in the drawing of the first special symbol or the drawing of the second special symbol, it executes a jackpot game (special game) in which the first big prize winning port 460 is opened and closed. After the jackpot game ends, the game state of the pachinko game machine 10 shifts to a normal game or a high probability game based on the type of special symbol that caused the jackpot game. The probability of shifting to a high probability game after the jackpot game ends (high probability award rate) is set in advance. In the normal game, the probability of winning a jackpot is set to a normal probability (low probability). In the high probability game, the probability of winning a jackpot is set to a high probability higher than the normal probability. In the high probability game, it becomes easier for a game ball to enter the second start port 452 than in the normal game (so-called "electric support"). The duration of the probability game is the period until the next big win game is played, or the period until the lottery for the special symbol is played a predetermined number of times (150 times in this embodiment). The specifications regarding the big win and probability game in this embodiment are as follows. Probability of winning the jackpot for the first special symbol Normal play 1 / 319 Chance play 1 / 74 Winning probability of the second special symbol Normal play 1 / 319 Chance play 1 / 74 Rate of special bonus 1st special design 50% 2nd special design 100%

[0055] The pachinko game machine 10 is configured to be able to set a time-saving game (time-saving state) that makes it easier for a game ball to enter the starting hole than in the normal game. In the time-saving game, by changing at least one of the opening time of the normal electric device 440, the time until opening, the number of times of opening, and the probability of winning the normal pattern, it becomes easier for a game ball to enter the second starting hole 452 than in the normal game (so-called "electric support"). The pachinko game machine 10 is able to set three types of time-saving games, namely, a time-saving game, b time-saving game, and c time-saving game, according to the progress of the game.

[0056] The a-time-short game (a-time-short state) is a time-short game (time-short state) that is granted according to the type of jackpot symbol after the jackpot game based on the first special symbol ends. The duration of the a-time-short game is the period until the next jackpot game is executed, or the period until a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 100 times) of special symbol draws are executed. The specifications of the a-time-short game in this embodiment are as follows. <Normal game> <a-time-short game> Release time for one time of a normal electric accessory 0.2 seconds 2.0 seconds Average time from the start of the general symbol variation to the release 8.0 seconds 0.5 seconds Number of releases per win 1 time 2 times Winning probability of the general symbol 4 / 20 19 / 20

[0057] The b-time-short game (b-time-short state) is a time-short game (time-short state) that is granted when the miss of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 950 times) with the normal probability (low probability). The duration of the b-time-short game is the period until the next jackpot game is executed, or the period until a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 1000 times) of special symbol draws are executed. In this embodiment, after the b-time-short game is granted once, if there is no jackpot game, the b-time-short game will not be granted again. The specifications of the b-time-short game in this embodiment are as follows. <Normal game> <b-time-short game> Release time for one time of a normal electric accessory 0.2 seconds 2.0 seconds Average time from the start of the general symbol variation to the release 8.0 seconds 0.5 seconds Number of releases per win 1 time 2 times Winning probability of the general symbol 4 / 20 4 / 20

[0058] The c-time shortening game (c-time shortening state) is a time shortening game (time shortening state) that is given without going through a jackpot game when winning in the second special symbol lottery (in this embodiment, the c-time shortening winning probability is 1 / 90). The duration of the c-time shortening game is the period until the next jackpot game is executed, or the period until a special symbol lottery is executed a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 300 times). The specifications of the c-time shortening game in this embodiment are as follows. <Normal mode> <b-time shortening game> Release time of a single ordinary electric accessory 0.2 seconds 2.0 seconds Average time from the start of the general symbol variation to release 8.0 seconds 0.5 seconds Number of releases per win 1 time 2 times Winning probability of the general symbol 4 / 20 4 / 20

[0059] Note that since the b-time shortening state and the c-time shortening state are not executed through a jackpot game, it is conceivable not to vary the winning probability of the general symbol to a high probability. In this case, the winning probability of the general symbol may not be varied for the a-time shortening state that is executed through a jackpot game either, or only the a-time shortening state may have its winning probability varied, and the winning probability may not be varied for at least one of the b-time shortening state and the c-time shortening state. When only the winning probability of the a-time shortening state is varied, by providing a difference in game characteristics between the a-time shortening state and the b-time shortening state and the c-time shortening state, game states with different degrees of advantage for the player can be realized. Also, when the winning probability of the general symbol is not varied in any of the a-time shortening state, the b-time shortening state, and the c-time shortening state, the same game characteristics can be realized between the respective time shortening states.

[0060] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the main routine executed by the main control device 210. The main control device 210 repeatedly starts the main routine (FIG. 5) as a timer interrupt process with a 2 ms cycle.

[0061] After starting the main routine (FIG. 5), the main control device 210 judges whether the main routine is started by a normal timer interrupt (step S10). If the main routine is not started by a normal timer interrupt (step S10: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes an initial setting process (step S20). In the initial setting process (step S20), the main control device 210 performs initial settings for each unit such as the CPU and I / O.

[0062] In the initial setting process (step S20) executed when the power is turned on and the RAM clear switch 294 is in the off state (not pressed) and the setting changeover switch 302 is in the off state, the main control device 210 performs initial setting of each section while retaining various information related to the progress of the game stored in the RAM 210m (e.g., various flags and counters).

[0063] In the initial setting process (step S20) executed when the RAM clear switch 294 is pressed to the on state upon power-on and the setting changeover switch 302 is in the off state, the main control device 210 deletes (clears) various pieces of information related to the progress of the game stored in the RAM 210m and sets (resets) these pieces of information to their initial values.

[0064] In the initial setting process (step S20) executed when the RAM clear switch 294 is pressed and in the on state upon power-on and the setting changeover switch 302 is in the on state, the main control device 210 deletes (clears) various pieces of information regarding the progress of the game stored in the RAM 210m, except for the information counting the number of misses of the special pattern required to start the b time-saving game, and sets (resets) these various pieces of information to their initial values.

[0065] In the initial setting process (step S20) executed when the RAM clear switch 294 is not pressed and is in the off state when the power is turned on, and the setting change switch 302 is in the on state when the power is turned on, the main control device 210 accepts a change to the setting of the game characteristics, and then performs initial settings for each section while retaining various information related to the progress of the game stored in the RAM 210m.

[0066] After executing the initial setting process (step S20), the main control device 210 repeatedly executes the initial value random number update process (step S70) until the next timer interrupt. In the initial value random number update process (step S70), the main control device 210 updates the initial value random number used to update the random number for jackpot determination described later.

[0067] If the main routine is started by a normal timer interrupt (step S10: "YES"), the main control unit 210 executes processes for updating various random numbers, such as an initial value random number update process (step S30), a random number update process for determining a jackpot (step S32), a random number update process for determining a special chart (step S34), a random number update process for determining a special chart fluctuation pattern (step S36), a random number update process for determining a win (step S40), a random number update process for determining a normal chart (step S42), and a random number update process for determining a normal chart fluctuation pattern (step S44).

[0068] In the initial value random number update process (step S30), the main control device 210 updates the initial value random number used to update the random number for jackpot determination. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is 22993 random numbers having values ​​in the range of "0 to 22992".

[0069] In the jackpot determination random number update process (step S32), the main control device 210 updates the jackpot determination random numbers used to determine a jackpot for a special symbol. In this embodiment, the jackpot determination random numbers are 22993 random numbers that take values ​​in the range of "0 to 22992". The main control device 210 is configured to be able to adjust the jackpot probability for a special symbol by setting a predetermined number of values ​​among the jackpot determination random numbers as values ​​that result in a jackpot for a special symbol.

[0070] In the special symbol determination random number update process (step S34), the main control device 210 updates the first special symbol determination random number and the second special symbol determination random number used to determine the winning symbol and the losing symbol of the special symbol. In this embodiment, the first special symbol determination random number is 200 random numbers having values ​​in the range of "0 to 199", and the second special symbol determination random numbers is 11 random numbers having values ​​in the range of "0 to 10".

[0071] In the special pattern change pattern determination random number update process (step S36), the main control device 210 updates the special pattern change pattern determination random number used to determine the change pattern of the special pattern. In this embodiment, the special pattern change pattern determination random number is 16384 random numbers that take values ​​in the range of "0 to 16383".

[0072] In the win determination random number update process (step S40), the main control device 210 updates the win determination random numbers used to determine whether a normal symbol wins. In this embodiment, the win determination random numbers are 65536 random numbers that take values ​​in the range of "0 to 65535". The main control device 210 is configured to be able to adjust the win probability of a normal symbol by setting a predetermined number of values ​​among the win determination random numbers as values ​​that result in a win for a normal symbol.

[0073] In the normal symbol determination random number update process (step S42), the main control device 210 updates the normal symbol determination random number used to determine the winning symbol of the normal symbol. In this embodiment, the normal symbol determination random number is 19 random numbers that take values ​​in the range of "0 to 18".

[0074] In the process of updating the random numbers for determining the normal pattern variation (step S44), the main control device 210 updates the random numbers for determining the normal pattern variation pattern used to determine the variation pattern of the normal pattern. In this embodiment, the random numbers for determining the normal pattern variation pattern are 16384 random numbers that take values ​​in the range of "0 to 16383".

[0075] After executing the process of updating various random numbers (steps S30 to S44), the main control device 210 executes a ball entry confirmation process (step S50). In the ball entry confirmation process (step S50), the main control device 210 checks whether a game ball has entered various starting holes, starting gates, and winning holes, and executes a process according to the ball entry. The details of the ball entry confirmation process (step S50) will be described later.

[0076] After executing the ball-entering confirmation process (step S50), the main control device 210 executes a winning / losing determination process (step S52). In the winning / losing determination process (step S52), the main control device 210 determines whether the special symbol lottery result is a winning / losing win, and whether the normal symbol lottery result is a winning / losing win. The details of the winning / losing determination process (step S52) will be described later.

[0077] After executing the win / loss determination process (step S52), the main control device 210 executes the normal power operation process (step S54). In the normal power operation process (step S54), the main control device 210 controls the opening and closing of the normal electric role object 440 based on the winning of the normal symbol. The details of the normal power operation process (step S54) will be described later.

[0078] After executing the normal power operation process (step S54), the main control device 210 executes the special game process (step S54). In the special game process (step S54), the main control device 210 controls a special game (for example, a big win game, a small win game, etc.) based on the winning of a special symbol. The details of the special game process (step S54) will be described later.

[0079] After executing the special game process (step S54), the main controller 210 executes a fraud monitoring process (step S60). In the fraud monitoring process (step S60), the main controller 210 monitors any fraudulent actions by the player.

[0080] After executing the fraud monitoring process (step S60), the main control device 210 executes an external output process (step S65). In the external output process (step S65), the main control device 210 outputs various information to external devices such as the hall computer 90. After executing the external output process (step S65), the main control device 210 repeatedly executes an initial value random number update process (step S75) until the next timer interrupt.

[0081] 6 is a flowchart showing the special start ball entry confirmation process executed by the main control device 210. The special start ball entry confirmation process (FIG. 6) is one of the subroutines executed in the ball entry confirmation process (S50) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is a process for confirming ball entry into the first start hole 451 and the second start hole 452.

[0082] After starting the special start ball entry confirmation process (FIG. 6), the main control device 210 judges whether or not a ball has entered the first start hole 451 based on the detection signal output from the first start hole switch 451s (step S100). If a ball has not entered the first start hole 451 (step S100: "NO"), the main control device 210 checks whether a ball has entered the second start hole 452 (step S100b).

[0083] If a ball has entered the first starting hole 451 (step S100: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the number of reserved memories for the first special symbol is full, in other words, whether the number of reserved memories for the first special symbol is the upper limit (for example, 4) (step S105). If the number of reserved memories for the first special symbol is full (step S105: "YES"), the main control device 210 checks whether a ball has entered the second starting hole 452 (step S100b).

[0084] If the number of reserved memories for the first special symbol is not full (step S105: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes a special symbol extraction random number reserved storage process (step S110). In the special symbol extraction random number reserved storage process (step S110), the main control device 210 extracts a random number for jackpot determination, a random number for special symbol determination, and a random number for special symbol variation pattern determination, and stores these random numbers as reserved memories for the first special symbol.

[0085] After executing the special symbol extraction random number reserved memory process (step S110), the main control device 210 executes the special symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S120). In the special symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S120), the main control device 210 transmits a special symbol reserved number command indicating the number of reserved memories of the first special symbol that have not been consumed as a variable display of the special symbol to the sub-integrated control device 220. The special symbol reserved number command may be information indicating an increase in the reserved memories of the first special symbol.

[0086] After executing the special symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S120), the main control device 210 executes reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130). In the reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130), the main control device 210 executes a pre-reading judgment to judge the judgment result of the judgment of the hit / miss judgment based on the reserved memory prior to the hit / miss judgment process (step S52) for the reserved memory of the first special symbol, and transmits a reserved pre-reading command indicating the judgment result of the pre-reading judgment to the sub-integrated control device 220. In this embodiment, the judgment result of the pre-reading judgment includes "big hit", "miss with super reach performance", "miss with normal reach performance", and "miss without reaching performance". As a result, the sub-integrated control device 220 executes a pre-reading performance suggesting the judgment result of the pre-reading judgment based on the reserved pre-reading command. After executing the reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130), the main control device 210 confirms the ball entering the second starting hole 452 (step S100b).

[0087] If a ball has not entered the first starting hole 451 (step S100: "NO"), if the number of reserved memories for the first special symbol is full (step S105: "YES"), or after executing the reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130), the main control device 210 judges whether or not a ball has entered the second starting hole 452 based on the detection signal output from the second starting hole switch 452s (step S100b). If a ball has not entered the second starting hole 452 (step S100b: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the special symbol starting ball entry confirmation process (FIG. 6).

[0088] If a ball has entered the second starting hole 452 (step S100b: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the number of reserved memories for the second special symbol is full, in other words, whether the number of reserved memories for the second special symbol is the upper limit (for example, 4) (step S105b). If the number of reserved memories for the second special symbol is full (step S105b: "YES"), the main control device 210 ends the special symbol starting ball entry confirmation process (FIG. 6).

[0089] If the number of reserved memories for the second special symbol is not full (step S105b: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes a special symbol extraction random number reserved storage process (step S110b). In the special symbol extraction random number reserved storage process (step S110b), the main control device 210 extracts a random number for jackpot determination, a random number for special symbol determination, and a random number for special symbol variation pattern determination, and stores these random numbers as reserved memories for the second special symbol.

[0090] After executing the special symbol extraction random number reserved memory process (step S110b), the main control device 210 executes the special symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S120b). In the special symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S120b), the main control device 210 transmits a special symbol reserved number command indicating the number of reserved memories of the second special symbol that have not been consumed as a variable display of the special symbol to the sub-integrated control device 220. The special symbol reserved number command may be information indicating an increase in the reserved memories of the second special symbol.

[0091] After executing the special symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S120b), the main control device 210 executes reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130b). In the reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130b), the main control device 210 executes a pre-reading judgment to judge the judgment result of the judgment ... In addition, in the special chart start ball entry confirmation process (Figure 6), the reserved reading ahead determination process (step S130) may be a process executed before the special chart extraction random number reserved storage process (step S110), and the reserved reading ahead determination process (step S130b) may be a process executed before the special chart extraction random number reserved storage process (step S110b).

[0092] 7 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol start ball entry confirmation process executed by the main control device 210. The normal symbol start ball entry confirmation process (FIG. 7) is one of the subroutines executed in the ball entry confirmation process (S50) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is a process for confirming ball entry into the normal symbol operation gate 430.

[0093] After starting the normal symbol start ball entry confirmation process in Fig. 7, the main control device 210 judges whether or not a ball has entered the normal symbol operation gate 430 based on the detection signal output from the operation gate switch 430s (step S150). If a ball has not entered the normal symbol operation gate 430 (step S150: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the normal symbol start ball entry confirmation process (Fig. 7).

[0094] If a ball has entered the normal symbol activation gate 430 (step S150: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the number of reserved memories for normal symbols is full, in other words, whether the number of reserved memories for normal symbols is the upper limit (for example, 4) (step S155). If the number of reserved memories for normal symbols is full (step S155: "YES"), the main control device 210 ends the normal symbol entry confirmation process (FIG. 7).

[0095] If the number of reserved memories for normal symbols is not full (step S155: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes a normal symbol extraction random number reserved storage process (step S160). In the normal symbol extraction random number reserved storage process (step S160), the main control device 210 extracts a random number for winning judgment, a random number for normal symbol determination, and a random number for normal symbol variation pattern determination, and stores these random numbers as reserved memories.

[0096] After executing the regular symbol extraction random number reserved memory process (step S160), the main control device 210 executes the regular symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S170). In the regular symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S170), the main control device 210 transmits a regular symbol reserved number command indicating the number of reserved memories of regular symbols that have not been consumed as a normal symbol variable display to the sub-integrated control device 220. The regular symbol reserved number command may be information indicating an increase in reserved memories of regular symbols. After executing the regular symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S170), the main control device 210 ends the regular symbol start ball entry confirmation process (FIG. 7).

[0097] 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 are flowcharts showing the special symbol win / loss determination process executed by the main control device 210. The special symbol win / loss determination process (FIGS. 8 to 12) is one of the subroutines executed in the win / loss determination process (S52) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is a process for determining whether the special symbol is a win or a loss.

[0098] After starting the special symbol hit / miss judgment process (FIGS. 8 to 12), the main control device 210 judges whether the special electric device is in operation, in other words, whether a big win game is being played (step S200). If the special electric device is in operation (step S200: "YES"), the main control device 210 ends the special symbol hit / miss judgment process (FIGS. 8 to 12).

[0099] If the special electric role is not in operation (step S200: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether or not the special symbol is being variably displayed (step S205).

[0100] If the special symbol is not being variably displayed (step S205: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether the special symbol is being fixedly displayed (step S210).

[0101] If the special symbol is not being displayed (step S210 "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether or not there is a reserved memory of the special symbol (step S215). If there is no reserved memory of the special symbol (step S215: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the special symbol hit / miss judgment process (FIGS. 8 to 12).

[0102] If there is a reserved memory of a special symbol (step S215: "YES"), the main control device 210 reads out the information stored as the oldest reserved memory among the reserved memories of the special symbol, and deletes the information from the reserved memory (step S220). In this embodiment, the main control device 210 reads out the reserved memory with priority given to the second special symbol. Therefore, when the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory exist, the main control device 210 reads out the information stored as the oldest reserved memory among the second reserved memory, and when only the first reserved memory exists, the main control device 210 reads out the information stored as the oldest reserved memory among the first reserved memory.

[0103] After processing the reserved memory (step S220), the main control device 210 judges whether the probability of winning the special symbol is "1" or not (step S225). The probability of winning the special symbol is a flag that controls the probability of winning the special symbol. The probability of winning the special symbol is set to "0" in the normal mode that controls the probability of winning the special symbol to the normal probability. The probability of winning the special symbol is set to "1" in the probability of winning the special symbol is set to the high probability. The probability of winning the special symbol is set to "0" in the initial setting process (step S20) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is set to "0" or "1" depending on the type of the special symbol when the special symbol is played.

[0104] If the special chance flag Fk is the value "1" (step S225: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines whether the random number for determining a jackpot read from the reserved memory is a jackpot value or not by referring to a special chart hit / miss determination table (special chance table) for the special chance mode (step S230).

[0105] If the special chance flag Fk is the value "0" (step S225: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether the random number for determining a jackpot read from the reserved memory is a jackpot value or not by referring to the special chance determination table (normal table) for the normal mode (step S235).

[0106] Continuing with the explanation of Figure 9, after determining whether the random number for determining a jackpot read from the reserved memory is a jackpot value (steps S230, S235), the main control device 210 determines whether the determination result of the random number for determining a jackpot is a jackpot (step S240).

[0107] If the result of the judgment of the random number for jackpot judgment is a jackpot (step S240: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines the jackpot pattern based on the random number for special pattern determination read from the reserved memory (step S242). After that, the main control device 210 determines the variation pattern of the special pattern according to the presentation that notifies the winning of the jackpot based on the random number for special pattern determination and the random number for special pattern variation pattern determination (step S244). After that, the main control device 210 executes the jackpot setting process (step S246). In the jackpot setting process (step S246), the main control device 210 sets various parameters that control the jackpot game (for example, the opening and closing pattern of the big prize entrance in the jackpot game, the presentation mode of the jackpot game, etc.).

[0108] If the result of the judgment of the random number for jackpot judgment is not a jackpot (step S240: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes the c time-saving judgment process (step S250). In the c time-saving judgment process (step S250), the main control device 210 judges whether the random number for jackpot judgment read from the reserved memory is a value of the c time-saving winning, which is a trigger to start the c time-saving game. After executing the c time-saving judgment process (step S250), the main control device 210 judges whether the judgment result of the c time-saving judgment process (step S250) is a c time-saving winning (step S252).

[0109] If the result of the judgment of the random number for jackpot judgment is the c time-saving winning (step S252: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines the time-saving winning pattern based on the special pattern determination random number read from the reserved memory (step S254). After that, the main control device 210 judges whether or not any of the time-saving games a, b, and c is set (step S256). If the time-saving game is not being played (step S256: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes the c time-saving winning variation pattern determination process (step S258). In the c time-saving winning variation pattern determination process (step S258), the main control device 210 determines the variation pattern of the special pattern according to the performance that notifies the winning of the c time-saving game based on the special pattern determination random number and the special pattern variation pattern determination random number.

[0110] If the result of the random number for jackpot determination is not the c time-saving winning (step S252: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines the losing symbol based on the random number for special symbol determination read from the reserved memory (step S262). After determining the losing symbol (step S262), the main control device 210 determines whether or not any of the time-saving games a, b, and c is set (step S263). If the time-saving game is not in progress (step S263: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether or not the arrival counter Ct is a value of "1" (step S264). The arrival counter Ct is a counter that indicates the remaining number of consecutive losses of the special symbol required until the start of the b time-saving game. The reach counter Ct is set to an initial value (in this embodiment, the value "950") in the initial setting process (step S20) of the main routine (Figure 5), decremented each time a special pattern is missed, and reset to the initial value when a jackpot game is played.

[0111] When the arrival counter Ct is the value "1" (step S264: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the arrival flag Ft is the value "1" or not (step S265). The arrival flag Ft is a flag that controls the time-saving arrival effect that notifies the arrival of the b time-saving game as a variable effect by using the variable time that is a miss immediately before the start of the b time mode. The arrival flag Ft of the value "0" indicates a control state that does not permit the execution of the time-saving arrival effect. The arrival flag Ft of the value "1" indicates a control state that permits the execution of the time-saving arrival effect. The arrival flag Ft is set to the value "0" in the initial setting process (step S20) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is set to the value "1" according to the execution of the jackpot game. Therefore, when the b time-saving game is started without executing a jackpot game even once after starting the pachinko game machine 10, the pachinko game machine 10 executes the time-saving arrival effect after transitioning to the b time-saving game. In another embodiment, when the arrival counter Ct is the value "1" (step S264: "YES"), the main control device 210 may execute the b time-saving arrival fluctuation pattern determination process (step S266) without executing control using the arrival flag Ft (step S265).

[0112] When the reaching flag Ft is the value "1" (step S265: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes the b time-saving reaching fluctuation pattern determination process (step S266). In the b time-saving reaching fluctuation pattern determination process (step S266), the main control device 210 determines a special miss fluctuation pattern according to the time-saving reaching performance that notifies the reaching of the b time-saving game based on the special chart determination random number and the special chart fluctuation pattern determination random number.

[0113] If the time-saving game is in progress without winning the c-time-saving (step S263: "YES"), if the arrival counter Ct is not "1" (step S264: "NO"), or if the arrival flag Ft is "0" (step S265: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes a miss variation pattern determination process (step S268). In the miss variation pattern determination process (step S268), the main control device 210 determines the miss variation pattern of the special symbol based on the special symbol determination random number and the special symbol variation pattern determination random number.

[0114] Even if the time-saving game is in progress despite the c time-saving winning (step S256: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes the miss variation pattern determination process (step S268). In this case, the main control device 210 does not set a new c time-saving game while displaying the time-saving winning symbol on the special symbol display device.

[0115] After executing the jackpot setting process (step S246), the c time-saving winning fluctuation pattern determination process (step S258), the b time-saving reaching fluctuation pattern determination process (step S266), or the losing fluctuation pattern determination process (step S268), the main control device 210 executes the reserved information transmission process (step S270). In the reserved information transmission process (step S270), the main control device 210 transmits a special symbol reserved number command indicating the number of reserved memories of special symbols remaining after reading the reserved memories to the sub-integrated control device 220. The special symbol reserved number command may be information indicating a decrease in the reserved memories of special symbols.

[0116] After executing the pending information transmission process (step S270), the main control device 210 executes the special pattern change start process (step S275). In the special pattern change start process (step S275), the main control device 210 starts the change display of the special pattern on the special pattern display device, and transmits a special pattern change start command indicating the lottery result of the special pattern and the change time, etc. to the sub-integrated control device 220. As a result, the sub-integrated control device 220 displays a pseudo performance corresponding to the change display of the special pattern on the performance pattern display device 480 based on the special pattern change start command. After executing the special pattern change start process (step S275), the main control device 210 ends the special pattern hit / miss judgment process (FIGS. 8 to 12).

[0117] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 8, if the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (step S205: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the variable time of the special symbol has elapsed (step S280). If the variable time of the special symbol has not elapsed (step S280: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the special symbol hit / miss judgment process (Figs. 8 to 12).

[0118] If the special symbol variation time has elapsed (step S280: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes a determined symbol display process (step S285). In the determined symbol display process (step S285), the main control device 210 ends the variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display device, and displays the determined symbol of the special symbol on the special symbol display device. Furthermore, the main control device 210 transmits a symbol determination command to the sub-integrated control device 220 to instruct the determined display of the performance symbol. After executing the determined symbol display process (step S285), the main control device 210 ends the special symbol hit / miss judgment process (FIGS. 8 to 12).

[0119] 10, when the special symbol is being displayed as a confirmed symbol (step S210 "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the duration of the confirmed display of the special symbol has ended (step S290). When the duration of the confirmed display of the special symbol has not ended (step S290: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the special symbol hit / miss judgment process (FIGS. 8 to 12).

[0120] If the duration of the fixed display of the special symbol has ended (step S290: "YES"), the main control device 210 ends the fixed display of the special symbol (step S295). After that, the main control device 210 determines whether the fixed special symbol is a jackpot symbol (step S300).

[0121] If the special symbol that was displayed as confirmed is a big win symbol (step S300: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the probability variable flag Fk is a value of "1" (step S302). If the probability variable flag Fk is a value of "1" (step S302: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the probability variable flag Fk to a value of "0" (step S304).

[0122] When the probability variable flag Fk is the value "0" (step S302: "NO"), or after resetting the probability variable flag Fk to the value "0" (step S304), the main control device 210 judges whether the a-time-saving flag Fa is the value "1" (step S306). When the a-time-saving flag Fa is the value "1" (step S306: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the a-time-saving flag Fa to the value "0" (step S308).

[0123] The a-time-saving flag Fa is a flag that controls the a-time-saving game. The a-time-saving flag Fa with a value of "0" indicates a control state in which the a-time-saving game is not executed. The a-time-saving flag Fa with a value of "1" indicates a control state in which the a-time-saving game is executed. The a-time-saving flag Fa is set to an initial value of "0" in the initial setting process (step S20) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is set to a value of "0" or a value of "1" depending on the type of jackpot pattern when the jackpot game is ended.

[0124] When the a-time-shortening flag Fa is set to "0" (step S306: "NO"), or after resetting the a-time-shortening flag Fa to "0" (step S308), the main control device 210 determines whether the b-time-shortening flag Fb is set to "1" (step S312). When the b-time-shortening flag Fb is set to "1" (step S312: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the b-time-shortening flag Fb to "0" (step S314).

[0125] The b time-saving flag Fb is a flag that controls the b time-saving game. The b time-saving flag Fb with a value of "0" indicates a control state in which the b time-saving game is not executed. The b time-saving flag Fb with a value of "1" indicates a control state in which the b time-saving game is executed. The b time-saving flag Fb is set to an initial value of "0" in the initial setting process (step S20) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is set to a value of "1" when the special pattern has been missed a predetermined number of times (950 times in this embodiment).

[0126] When the b time-saving flag Fb is set to "0" (step S312: "NO"), or after resetting the b time-saving flag Fb to "0" (step S314), the main control device 210 judges whether the c time-saving flag Fc is set to "1" (step S316). When the c time-saving flag Fc is set to "1" (step S316: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the c time-saving flag Fc to "0" (step S318).

[0127] The c time-saving flag Fc is a flag that controls the c time-saving game. The c time-saving flag Fc with a value of "0" indicates a control state in which the c time-saving game is not executed. The c time-saving flag Fc with a value of "1" indicates a control state in which the c time-saving game is executed. The c time-saving flag Fc is set to an initial value of "0" in the initial setting process (step S20) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is set to a value of "1" when the time-saving game is won in the lottery for the special pattern.

[0128] When the c time-saving flag Fc is set to the value "0" (step S316: "NO"), or after resetting the c time-saving flag Fc to the value "0" (step S318), the main control device 210 determines whether the arrival flag Ft is set to the value "1" (step S320). When the arrival flag Ft is set to the value "1" (step S320: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the arrival flag Ft to the value "0" (step S322).

[0129] If the arrival flag Ft is equal to the value "0" (step S320: "NO"), or after resetting the arrival flag Ft to the value "0" (step S322), the main control device 210 resets the arrival counter Ct to its initial value (in this embodiment, the value "950") (step S325).

[0130] After resetting the arrival counter Ct (step S325), the main control device 210 executes a condition device operation start process (step S332), a role continuous operation device operation start process (step S334), and a big win start performance process (step S336). In the big win start performance process (step S336), the main control device 210 starts a big win game by transmitting various commands that realize the big win game to the sub integrated control device 220. After executing these processes (steps S332, S334, S336), the main control device 210 ends the special symbol hit / miss determination process (FIGS. 8 to 12).

[0131] 11, if the special symbol displayed as confirmed is not a big win symbol (step S300: "NO"), in other words, if the special symbol displayed as confirmed is a losing symbol or a time-saving winning symbol, the main control device 210 judges whether the probability variable flag Fk is a value of "1", in other words, whether the game is in the probability variable mode (step S340). If the probability variable flag Fk is a value of "1" (step S340: "YES"), the main control device 210 decrements the probability variable counter Ck (step S342). The probability variable counter Ck is a counter that indicates the remaining number of times that the lottery for the special symbol can be executed in the probability variable mode. After decrementing the probability variable counter Ck (step S342), the main control device 210 judges whether the probability variable counter Ck is a value of "0" (step S344). If the probability variable counter Ck is equal to the value "0" (step S344: "YES"), the probability variable flag Fk is reset to the value "0" (step S346).

[0132] If the special rate flag Fk is the value "0" (step S340: "NO"), if the special rate counter Ck is not the value "0" (step S344: "NO"), or after resetting the special rate flag Fk to the value "0" (step S346), the main control device 210 determines whether the a time-saving flag Fa is the value "1", in other words, whether the a time-saving period is in progress (step S350).

[0133] If the a-time-saving flag Fa is the value "1" (step S350: "YES"), the main control device 210 decrements the a-time-saving counter Ca (step S352). The a-time-saving counter Ca is a counter that indicates the remaining number of times that the lottery for the special symbol that can be executed in the a-time-saving game can be performed. After decrementing the a-time-saving counter Ca (step S352), the main control device 210 judges whether the a-time-saving counter Ca is the value "0" (step S354). If the a-time-saving counter Ca is the value "0" (step S354: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the a-time-saving flag Fa to the value "0" (step S356).

[0134] When the a time-saving flag Fa is the value "0" (step S350: "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether the b time-saving flag Fb is the value "1", in other words, whether the b time-saving is in progress (step S360). When the b time-saving flag Fb is the value "1" (step S360: "YES"), the main control device 210 decrements the b time-saving counter Cb (step S362). The b time-saving counter Cb is a counter that indicates the remaining number of times that the lottery for the special symbol that can be executed in the b time-saving game is performed. After decrementing the b time-saving counter Cb (step S362), the main control device 210 judges whether the b time-saving counter Cb is the value "0" (step S364). When the b time-saving counter Cb is the value "0" (step S364: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the b time-saving flag Fb to the value "0" (step S366).

[0135] If the b time-saving flag Fb is the value "0" (step S360: "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether the c time-saving flag Fc is the value "1", in other words, whether the c time-saving is in progress (step S370). If the c time-saving flag Fc is the value "1" (step S370: "YES"), the main control device 210 decrements the c time-saving counter Cc (step S372). The c time-saving counter Cc is a counter that indicates the remaining number of times that the lottery for the special symbol that can be executed in the c time-saving game is performed. After decrementing the c time-saving counter Cc (step S372), the main control device 210 judges whether the c time-saving counter Cc is the value "0" (step S374). If the c time-saving counter Cc is the value "0" (step S374: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the c time-saving flag Fc to the value "0" (step S376).

[0136] 12, if the c time-saving flag Fc is set to "0" (step S370: "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether the special symbol displayed as confirmed is a time-saving winning symbol (step S377). If the special symbol displayed as confirmed is a time-saving winning symbol (step S377: "YES"), the main control device 210 sets the c time-saving flag Fc to "1" (step S378). After that, the main control device 210 executes a c time-saving counter setting process (step S379). In the c time-saving counter setting process (step S379), the main control device 210 sets a value (in this embodiment, a value of "300") indicating the maximum number of times to execute a lottery for a special symbol in a c time-saving game to the c time-saving counter Cc.

[0137] When the b-time-saving counter Cb is not equal to "0" (step S364: "NO"), or after resetting the b-time-saving flag Fb to "0" (step S366), the main controller 210 decrements the reach counter Ct (step S380).

[0138] When the c time-saving counter Cc is not equal to "0" (step S374: "NO"), or after resetting the c time-saving flag Fc to "0" (step S376), the main controller 210 decrements the reach counter Ct (step S380).

[0139] If the special symbol is not a time-saving winning symbol (step S377: "NO"), or after executing the c time-saving counter setting process (step S379), the main control device 210 decrements the reach counter Ct (step S380).

[0140] After decrementing the arrival counter Ct (step S380), the main control device 210 judges whether the arrival counter Ct is equal to the value "0" (step S381). If the arrival counter Ct is equal to the value "0" (step S381: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the arrival counter Ct to an initial value (in this embodiment, the value "950") (step S383). After resetting the arrival counter Ct, the main control device 210 judges whether any time-saving game is being set (step S385).

[0141] If the time-saving game is not in progress (step S385: "NO"), the main control device 210 sets the b time-saving flag Fb to a value of "1" (step S386). After that, the main control device 210 executes a b time-saving counter setting process (step S388). In the b time-saving counter setting process (step S388), the main control device 210 sets the b time-saving counter Cb to a value (in this embodiment, the value "1000") indicating the maximum number of times to execute the lottery for the special symbol in the b time-saving game.

[0142] When the a time-saving counter Ca is not "0" (step S354: "NO"), or after resetting the a time-saving flag Fa to "0" (step S356), the main control device 210 executes a state designation command transmission process (step S390). Also, when the arrival counter Ct is not "0" (step S381: "NO"), when the time-saving game is in progress (step S385: "YES"), or after executing the b time-saving counter setting process (step S388), the main control device 210 executes a state designation command transmission process (step S390). In the state designation command transmission process (step S390), the main control device 210 transmits a state designation command that designates a game state to the sub-integrated control device 220. After executing the state designation command transmission process (step S390), the main control device 210 ends the special chart hit / miss determination process (FIGS. 8 to 12).

[0143] 13, 14, and 15 are flow charts showing the jackpot game processing executed by the main control device 210. The jackpot game processing (FIGS. 13 to 15) is one of the subroutines executed in the special game processing (S56) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is a process for controlling the jackpot game.

[0144] After starting the big win game process (FIGS. 13 to 15), the main control device 210 judges whether the accessory continuous operation device is in operation, in other words, whether the big win game is being executed (step S400). If the accessory continuous operation device is not in operation (step S400: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the big win game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0145] If the accessory continuous operation device is in operation (step S400: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the large prize opening 460 is being opened (step S405). If the large prize opening 460 is not being opened (step S405: "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether an interval is being held in which the large prize opening 460 is closed between each round of the large prize game (step S410). If there is no interval (step S410: "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether a large prize end performance is being executed when the large prize game is ended (step S415).

[0146] If the big win end performance is not being executed (step S415: "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether the performance time for executing the big win start performance has elapsed (step S420). If the performance time for the big win start performance has not elapsed (step S420: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the big win game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0147] If the performance time of the big win start performance has elapsed (step S420: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes the big win opening process (step S425). In the big win opening process (step S425), the main control device 210 outputs an opening signal to the big win opening solenoid 460d to open the big win opening 460. After executing the big win opening process (step S425), the main control device 210 ends the big win game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0148] 14, if the large prize opening 460 is being opened (step S405: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening 460 has reached 10 (step S430). If the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening 460 has not reached 10 (step S430: "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether the opening time for opening the large prize opening 460 has elapsed (step S435). If the opening time for the large prize opening 460 has not elapsed (step S435: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the large prize game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0149] If the number of game balls entering the large prize opening 460 reaches 10 (step S430: "YES"), or if the opening time of the large prize opening 460 has elapsed (step S435: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes a large prize opening closing process (step S440). In the large prize opening closing process (step S440), the main control device 210 closes the large prize opening 460 by outputting a closing signal to the large prize opening solenoid 460d. After executing the large prize opening closing process (step S440), the main control device 210 executes a large prize interval process (step S445). In the large prize interval process (step S445), the main control device 210 sets an interval for closing the large prize opening 460 between each round of the large prize game. After executing the big win interval process (step S445), the main control device 210 ends the big win game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0150] If the interval for closing the big win opening 460 between each round of the big win game is in progress (step S410: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether or not the interval time for continuing the interval in the big win game has elapsed (step S450). If the interval time has not elapsed (step S450: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the big win game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0151] If the interval time has elapsed (step S450: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the final round in the big win game has ended (step S455). If the final round has not ended (step S455: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes the big win opening process (step S465). In the big win opening process (step S465), the main control device 210 outputs an opening signal to the big win opening solenoid 460d to open the big win opening 460. After executing the big win opening process (step S465), the main control device 210 ends the big win game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0152] If the final round has ended (step S455: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes the big win end performance process (step S460). In the big win end performance process (step S460), the main control device 210 instructs the sub integrated control device 220 to execute the big win end performance. After executing the big win end performance process (step S460), the main control device 210 ends the big win game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0153] 15, if the big win end performance is being executed (step S415: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the performance time for executing the big win end performance has elapsed (step S470). If the performance time for the big win end performance has not elapsed (step S470: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the big win game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0154] If the performance time for the jackpot end performance has elapsed (step S470: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes a process to stop the operation of the consecutive operation device of the role (step S472) and a process to stop the operation of the condition device (step S474). After that, the main control device 210 executes a process to set the probability variable flag (step S480). In the process to set the probability variable flag (step S480), the main control device 210 judges whether or not to transition to the probability variable mode after the jackpot game. If transitioning to the probability variable mode, the main control device 210 sets the probability variable flag Fk to a value of "1". If transitioning not to the probability variable mode, the main control device 210 sets the probability variable flag Fk to a value of "0".

[0155] After executing the high probability flag setting process (step S480), the main control device 210 executes the high probability counter setting process (step S485). In the high probability counter setting process (step S485), the main control device 210 sets the high probability counter Ck. When transitioning to the high probability mode, the main control device 210 sets the high probability counter Ck to a value (in this embodiment, the value "150") indicating the maximum number of times to execute the lottery for special symbols in the high probability mode. When not transitioning to the high probability mode, the main control device 210 sets the high probability counter Ck to the value "0".

[0156] After executing the probability change counter setting process (step S485), the main control device 210 executes the a time-shortening flag setting process (step S490). In the a time-shortening flag setting process (step S490), the main control device 210 judges whether or not to transition to the a time-shortening game after the big win game. If transitioning to the a time-shortening game, the main control device 210 sets the a time-shortening flag Fa to a value of "1". If transitioning not to the a time-shortening game, the main control device 210 sets the a time-shortening flag Fa to a value of "0".

[0157] After executing the a-time-saving flag setting process (step S490), the main control device 210 executes the a-time-saving counter setting process (step S495). In the a-time-saving counter setting process (step S495), the main control device 210 sets the a-time-saving counter Ca. When transitioning to the a-time-saving game, the main control device 210 sets the a-time-saving counter Ca to a value (in this embodiment, the value "100") indicating the maximum number of times to execute the lottery for special symbols in the a-time-saving game. When not transitioning to the a-time-saving game, the main control device 210 sets the a-time-saving counter Ca to the value "0".

[0158] After executing the time-saving counter setting process (step S495), the main control device 210 sets the arrival flag Ft to a value of "1" (step S500). After that, the main control device 210 resets the arrival counter Ct to an initial value (in this embodiment, the value "950") (step S505).

[0159] After that, the main control device 210 executes a big win end command transmission process (step S510). In the big win end command transmission process (step S510), the main control device 210 transmits a big win end command to the sub integrated control device 220 to instruct the end of the performance related to the big win game.

[0160] After executing the jackpot end command transmission process (step S510), the main control device 210 executes a state designation command transmission process (step S520). In the state designation command transmission process (step S520), the main control device 210 transmits a state designation command that designates a game state to the sub integrated control device 220. After executing the state designation command transmission process (step S520), the main control device 210 ends the jackpot game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0161] 16 and 17 are flowcharts showing the normal symbol win / loss determination process executed by the main control device 210. The normal symbol win / loss determination process (FIGS. 16 and 17) is one of the subroutines executed in the win / loss determination process (S52) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is a process for determining whether the normal symbol is a win or loss.

[0162] After starting the normal winning / loosening process (FIGS. 16 and 17), the main control device 210 judges whether the normal electric role 440 is in operation (step S600). If the normal electric role 440 is in operation (step S600: "YES"), the main control device 210 ends the normal winning / loosening process (FIGS. 16 and 17).

[0163] If the normal electric role 440 is not in operation (step S600: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether or not the normal symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (step S605).

[0164] If the normal symbol is not being displayed variably (step S605: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether the normal symbol is being displayed in a fixed state (step S610).

[0165] If the normal symbol is not being displayed (step S610 "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether or not there is a reserved memory of the normal symbol (step S615). If there is no reserved memory of the normal symbol (step S615: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the normal symbol hit / miss judgment process (FIGS. 16, 17).

[0166] If there is a reserved memory of a normal symbol (step S615: "YES"), the main control device 210 reads out the oldest reserved memory among the reserved memories of the normal symbol and deletes the information from the reserved memory (step S620). After that, the main control device 210 judges whether the probability variable flag Fk or the a time-saving flag Fa is the value "1" (step S625).

[0167] If the probability of winning flag Fk is the value "1" (step S625: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines whether the random number for winning judgment read from the reserved memory is a winning value or not by referring to a high probability normal winning / losing judgment table (high probability table) (step S630).

[0168] If the probability of winning flag Fk is not the value "1" (step S625: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether the random number for winning judgment read from the reserved memory is a winning value or not by referring to a low probability normal winning / losing judgment table (low probability table) (step S635).

[0169] Moving on to the explanation of Figure 17, after determining whether the random number for determining a win read from the reserved memory is a win value (steps S630, S635), the main control device 210 determines whether the determination result of the random number for determining a win is a win (step S640).

[0170] If the result of the random number for winning judgment is a winning (step S640: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines the winning symbol based on the random number for determining the normal symbol read from the reserved memory (step S645). After that, the main control device 210 determines the winning variation pattern of the normal symbol based on the random number for determining the normal symbol and the random number for determining the normal symbol variation pattern, as well as the probability variable flag Fk, the a time-saving flag Fa, the b time-saving flag Fb, and the c time-saving flag Fc (step S650). After that, the main control device 210 executes a winning setting process (step S655). In the winning setting process (step S655), the main control device 210 sets various parameters (for example, the opening pattern of the normal electric role object 440) that control the winning game.

[0171] If the result of the determination of the random number for determining a win is not a win (step S640: "NO"), in other words, if the result of the determination of the random number for determining a win is a miss, the main control unit 210 determines a miss pattern based on the random number for determining a normal pattern read from the reserved memory (step S662).

[0172] After determining the losing symbol (step S662), the main control device 210 executes a losing fluctuation pattern determination process (step S668). In the losing fluctuation pattern determination process (step S668), the main control device 210 determines the losing fluctuation pattern of the special symbol based on the random number for determining the normal symbol and the random number for determining the normal symbol fluctuation pattern, as well as the probability variable flag Fk, the a time-saving flag Fa, the b time-saving flag Fb, and the c time-saving flag Fc.

[0173] After executing the winning setting process (step S655) or the losing variation pattern determination process (step S668), the main control device 210 executes the normal pattern variation start process (step S675). In the normal pattern variation start process (step S675), the main control device 210 starts the normal pattern variation display on the normal pattern display device 471. After executing the normal pattern variation start process (step S675), the main control device 210 ends the normal pattern winning / losing determination process (FIGS. 16, 17).

[0174] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 16, if the normal symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (step S605: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the variable time of the normal symbol has elapsed (step S680). If the variable time of the normal symbol has not elapsed (step S680: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the normal symbol win / loss judgment process (Fig. 16, Fig. 17).

[0175] If the normal symbol variation time has elapsed (step S680: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes the confirmed symbol display process (step S685). In the confirmed symbol display process (step S685), the main control device 210 ends the normal symbol variation display on the normal symbol display device 471, and displays the confirmed normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 471. After executing the confirmed symbol display process (step S685), the main control device 210 ends the normal symbol win / loss determination process (FIGS. 16, 17).

[0176] 17, when the normal symbol is being displayed as a confirmed symbol (step S610 "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the duration of the confirmed display of the normal symbol has ended (step S690). If the duration of the confirmed display of the normal symbol has not ended (step S690: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the normal symbol win / loss judgment process (FIGS. 16, 17).

[0177] If the duration of the confirmation display of the normal symbol has ended (step S690: "YES"), the main control device 210 ends the confirmation display of the normal symbol (step S692). After that, the main control device 210 judges whether the confirmed normal symbol is a winning symbol (step S694). If the confirmed normal symbol is not a winning symbol (step S694: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the normal symbol winning / losing judgment process (FIGS. 16, 17).

[0178] If the normal symbol displayed as confirmed is a winning symbol (step S694: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes normal electric role operation start processing (step S696). In the normal electric role operation start processing (step S696), the main control device 210 sets the start of operation of the normal electric role 440. After executing the normal electric role operation start processing (step S696), the main control device 210 ends the normal symbol win / loss judgment processing (FIGS. 16, 17).

[0179] 18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the normal power operation process executed by the main control device 210. The normal power operation process (FIGS. 18 and 19) is one of the subroutines executed in the normal power operation process (S54) of the main routine (FIG. 5), and is a process for controlling the normal electric accessory 440.

[0180] After starting the normal power operation process (FIGS. 18 and 19), the main control device 210 judges whether the normal electric role 440 is operating (step S700). If the normal electric role 440 is not operating (step S700: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the normal power operation process (FIGS. 18 and 19).

[0181] If the normal electric role 440 is in operation (step S700: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the normal electric role 440 is being opened (step S702). If the normal electric role 440 is not being opened (step S702: "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether the normal electric role 440 is in an interval for closing the normal electric role 440 when the normal electric role 440 is opened multiple times per hit (step S704). If the interval is not in progress (step S704: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes a normal power opening process (step S710). In the normal power opening process (step S710), the main control device 210 opens the normal electric role 440 by outputting an opening signal to the normal electric role solenoid 440d. After executing the normal power disconnection process (step S710), main control device 210 ends the normal power operation process (FIGS. 18 and 19).

[0182] 19, if the normal electric role 440 is being opened (step S702: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the number of game balls that have won the normal electric role 440 has reached 10 (step S720). If the number of game balls that have won the normal electric role 440 has not reached 10 (step S720: "NO"), the main control device 210 judges whether the opening time for opening the normal electric role 440 has elapsed (step S725). If the opening time of the normal electric role 440 has not elapsed (step S725: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the normal power operation process (FIGS. 18, 19).

[0183] If the number of winning game balls in the normal electric role 440 reaches 10 (step S720: "YES"), or if the opening time of the normal electric role 440 has elapsed (step S725: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes a normal power closing process (step S730). In the normal power closing process (step S730), the main control device 210 closes the normal electric role 440 by outputting a closing signal to the normal electric role solenoid 440d.

[0184] After executing the normal power closing process (step S730), the main control device 210 judges whether the final opening has been completed in the current operation of the normal electric feature 440 (step S735). If the final opening has been completed (step S735: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes normal power operation end process (step S740). In the normal power operation end process (step S740), the main control device 210 sets the end of operation of the normal electric feature 440. After executing the normal power operation end process (step S740), the main control device 210 ends the normal power operation process (FIGS. 18, 19).

[0185] If the final opening has not been completed (step S735: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes normal power interval processing (step S750). In the normal power interval processing (step S750), the main control device 210 sets an interval for closing the normal electric feature 440. After executing the normal power interval processing (step S750), the main control device 210 ends the normal power operation processing (FIGS. 18 and 19).

[0186] If it is during the interval (step S704: "YES"), the main control device 210 judges whether the interval time for continuing the interval for closing the normal electric role 440 has elapsed (step S760). If the interval time has not elapsed (step S760: "NO"), the main control device 210 ends the normal electric operation process (FIGS. 18, 19).

[0187] If the interval time has elapsed (step S760: "YES"), the main control device 210 executes a normal power release process (step S770). In the normal power release process (step S770), the main control device 210 outputs an open signal to the normal power role solenoid 440d to release the normal electric role 440. After executing the normal power release process (step S770), the main control device 210 ends the normal power operation process (FIGS. 18 and 19).

[0188] FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of the main control device 210 and the sub integrated control device 220. The main control device 210 includes a first special symbol display device 473 and a second special symbol display device 475, as well as a win / loss determination means 212, a special game means 214, a probability change game means 215, an a time-saving game means 216, a b time-saving game means 217, and a c time-saving game means 218 as configurations related to the control of game progress. The win / loss determination means 212 of the main control device 210 includes a first win / loss determination means 212a and a second win / loss determination means 212b. The main control device 210 includes a command output means 219 as configurations related to the control of performance. Each configuration of the main control device 210 is realized in software based on a computer program. In another embodiment, at least a part of the various means of the main control device 210 may be realized in hardware based on a circuit configuration.

[0189] The first hit / miss judgment means 212a of the main control device 210 executes a first hit / miss judgment, which is a hit / miss judgment regarding the first special symbol, based on the ball entering the first starting hole 451. The first hit / miss judgment means 212a is a means for executing a hit / miss judgment regarding the first special symbol (steps S230 and S235 in FIG. 8) in the special symbol hit / miss judgment process. The first starting hole 451 is located in the left-hand hit play area GA1 where game balls shot with less than a predetermined shooting strength mainly roll. The first special symbol display device 473 displays the first special symbol variably and then confirms it based on the judgment result by the first hit / miss judgment means 212a.

[0190] The second hit / miss judgment means 212b of the main control device 210 executes a second hit / miss judgment, which is a hit / miss judgment regarding the second special symbol, based on the ball entering the second starting hole 452. The second hit / miss judgment means 212b is a means for executing a hit / miss judgment regarding the second special symbol (steps S230 and S235 in FIG. 8) in the special symbol hit / miss judgment process. The second starting hole 452 is located in the right-hitting play area GA2 where the gaming machine that is fired with a predetermined firing strength or more mainly rolls. The second special symbol display device 475 displays the second special symbol variably and then displays it as a fixed symbol based on the judgment result by the second hit / miss judgment means 212b.

[0191] When the player wins a jackpot in the first hit / miss judgment or the second hit / miss judgment (first condition), the special game means 214 of the main control device 210 opens the big prize winning port 460 to execute a jackpot game (special game) that is more advantageous to the player than a normal game. The special game means 214 is a means for executing a jackpot game process (FIGS. 13, 14, and 15). In this embodiment, the probability of the second special symbol being awarded a special jackpot (100%) is higher than the probability of the first special symbol being awarded a special jackpot (50%), so that the jackpot game (special game) based on the second hit / miss judgment is more advantageous to the player than the jackpot game (special game) based on the first hit / miss judgment. In other embodiments, the special game based on the second hit / miss judgment may be as advantageous as the special game based on the first hit / miss judgment, or may be less advantageous to the player than the special game based on the first hit / miss judgment.

[0192] The special probability game means 215 of the main control device 210 is a means for setting a special probability game as one of the easy ball entry means for setting a ball entry easy state (electric support) in which it is easier to enter the second starting hole 452 than in normal play. The special probability game is a game state in which the probability of winning in the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol is set to a higher probability than in normal play in the easy ball entry state (electric support). When the jackpot symbol that caused the jackpot game is a specific jackpot symbol, the special probability game means 215 starts the special probability game following the end of the jackpot game. After starting the special probability game, the special probability game means 215 continues the special probability game until the special symbol hit / miss judgment is won or until the number of times the special symbol hit / miss judgment is performed reaches a predetermined number of times (150 times in this embodiment). The high probability game means 215 is a means for executing a high probability game flag setting process (step S480 in FIG. 15) and a high probability game counter setting process (step S485 in FIG. 15) in the jackpot game process. The high probability game means 215 is a means for executing a judgment process using a high probability table (step S630 in FIG. 16) in the normal game hit / miss judgment process. The high probability game means 215 is a means for executing a judgment process using a high probability game table (step S230 in FIG. 8), a reset process of the high probability game flag Fk (step S304 in FIG. 10), and an update process of the high probability game flag Fk and the high probability game counter Ck (steps S340 to S346 in FIG. 11) in the special game hit / miss judgment process.

[0193] The a time-saving game means 216 of the main control device 210 is a time-saving game means (first time-saving game means) that sets the a time-saving game (first special game) after the big win game (special game) ends as one of the ball entry facilitating means. The a time-saving game is a game state in which the winning probability of winning the special pattern is set to a low probability (normal probability) in normal game, and the ball entry into the second starting hole 452 is set easier than in normal game. The a time-saving game means 216 starts the a time-saving game after the big win game ends based on a predetermined condition. In this embodiment, the a time-saving game means 216 starts the a time-saving game after the big win game based on a specific type of big win pattern different from the type that starts the probability mode ends. After starting the a time-saving game, the a time-saving game means 216 continues the a time-saving game until a win is determined by the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol, or until the number of times the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol is performed reaches a predetermined number of times (100 times in this embodiment). The a time-saving game means 216 is a means for executing the a time-saving flag setting process (step S490 in FIG. 15) and the a time-saving counter setting process (step S495 in FIG. 15) in the big win game process. The a time-saving game means 216 is a means for executing the judgment process by the high probability table (step S630 in FIG. 16) in the normal hit / miss judgment process. The a time-saving game means 216 is a means for executing a judgment process using a normal table (step S235 in FIG. 8), a reset process of the a time-saving flag Fa (step S308 in FIG. 10), and an update process of the a time-saving flag Fa and the a time-saving counter Ca (steps S350 to S356 in FIG. 11) in the special chart winning / losing judgment process.

[0194] The b time-saving game means 217 of the main control device 210 is a time-saving game means (second time-saving game means) that sets the b time-saving game (second bonus game) as one of the ball entry facilitating means. The b time-saving game is a game state in which the probability of winning in the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol is set to a low probability (normal probability) in the normal game, and the ball entry into the second starting hole 452 is set to be easier than in the normal game. The b time-saving game means 217 starts the b time-saving game when the number of consecutive judgments Nh reaches the number of activations Ns (950 times in this embodiment). After starting the b time-saving game, the b time-saving game means 217 continues the b time-saving game until the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol is won or until the number of executions of the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number of endings (1000 times in this embodiment). The b time-saving game means 217 is a means for executing the setting process of the b time-saving flag Fb and the b time-saving counter Cb (steps S386, S388 in FIG. 12), the judgment process using the normal table (step S235 in FIG. 8), the reset process of the b time-saving flag Fb (step S314 in FIG. 10), and the update process of the b time-saving flag Fb and the b time-saving counter Cb (steps S360 to S366 in FIG. 11) in the special chart winning / losing judgment process.

[0195] The c time-saving game means 218 of the main control device 210 is a time-saving game means (second time-saving game means) that sets the c time-saving game (third bonus game) as one of the ball entry facilitating means when the time-saving is won in the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol (second condition). The c time-saving game is a game state in which the winning probability of winning in the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol is set to a low probability (normal probability) in the normal game, and the ball entry into the second starting hole 452 is set easier than in the normal game. The c time-saving game means 218 starts the c time-saving game after winning the time-saving in the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol. After starting the c time-saving game, the c time-saving game means 218 continues the c time-saving game until the winning is won in the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol or until the number of times the hit / miss judgment of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number of times (300 times in this embodiment). The c time-saving game means 218 is a means for executing the setting process of the c time-saving flag Fc and the c time-saving counter Cc (steps S378, S379 in FIG. 12), the judgment process using the normal table (step S235 in FIG. 8), the reset process of the c time-saving flag Fc (step S318 in FIG. 10), and the update process of the c time-saving flag Fc and the c time-saving counter Cc (steps S370 to S376 in FIG. 11) in the special chart winning / losing judgment process.

[0196] In this embodiment, the c time-saving game means 218 sets the c time-saving game when the time-saving is won with a predetermined probability (1 / 90 in this embodiment) in the hit / miss judgment of the second special symbol executed during the normal game. In other words, the c time-saving game means 218, which is one of the time-saving game means, may switch from the normal game to the time-saving game based on the judgment result of the second hit / miss judgment executed during the normal game. In addition, none of the time-saving game means including the a time-saving game means 216, the b time-saving game means 217, and the c time-saving game means 218 executes a new time-saving game based on the judgment result of the hit / miss judgment of the second special symbol executed in the ball-winning easy state (electric support) including during the probability variation game and during the time-saving game.

[0197] The command output means 219 of the main control device 210 outputs a command including information related to performance control to the sub integrated control device 220. The command output means 219 outputs includes information indicating the start and end of the variable display of the special pattern, information indicating the number of consecutive judgments Nh (attainment counter Ct), and the like. In this embodiment, the command output means 219 outputs commands including information regarding performance control to the sub-integrated control device 220 in special chart reserved number command transmission processing (step S120 in FIG. 6), regular chart reserved number command transmission processing (step S170 in FIG. 7), reserved information transmission processing (step S270 in FIG. 9), special chart change start processing (step S275 in FIG. 9), confirmed pattern display processing (step S285 in FIG. 8), jackpot start performance processing (step S336 in FIG. 10), state designation command transmission processing (step S390 in FIG. 12), jackpot end command transmission processing (step S510 in FIG. 15), state designation command transmission processing (step S520 in FIG. 15), etc.

[0198] The sub-integrated control device 220 includes a hitting suggestion means 222 as a configuration related to performance control. Each configuration of the sub-integrated control device 220 is realized in software based on a computer program. In another embodiment, at least a part of the various means of the sub-integrated control device 220 may be realized in hardware based on a circuit configuration.

[0199] The hit suggestion means 222 of the sub-integrated control device 220 executes a right hit suggestion, which is a hit suggestion that suggests to the player to hit the game ball into the right hit game area GA2 (so-called "right hit"). The hit suggestion means 222 executes a right hit suggestion as part of the win / lose presentation displayed on the presentation pattern display device 480. The right hit suggestion executed by the hit suggestion means 222 includes a plurality of right hit suggestions SR1, SR2, SR3 with different suggestion modes. The right hit suggestion SR2 is a mode that emphasizes the suggestion of a right hit more than the right hit suggestion SR3, and the right hit suggestion SR1 is a mode that emphasizes the suggestion of a right hit even more than the right hit suggestion SR2.

[0200] The right hit suggestion SR1 is a right hit suggestion executed in a first manner when the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is not displayed while the ball is likely to be scored in a ball-scoring easy state (electric support) including probability variable play and various time-saving play. The right hit suggestion SR2 is a right hit suggestion executed in a second manner when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not displayed while the ball is likely to be scored in a ball-scoring easy state (electric support) including probability variable play and various time-saving play. The right hit suggestion SR3 is a right hit suggestion executed when the second special symbol is displayed while the ball is likely to be scored in a ball-scoring easy state (electric support) including probability variable play and various time-saving play.

[0201] 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a winning / losing effect in a normal game. The effect screen 500 is a screen constituting a series of winning / losing effects displayed on the effect pattern display device 480 during a normal game. The effect screen 500 includes an effect pattern display area 501, a first reserved pattern display area 503a, and a second reserved pattern display area 503b.

[0202] The performance pattern display area 501 of the performance screen 500 is an area that displays performance patterns according to the winning or losing results of the first special pattern and the second special pattern. The performance pattern display area 501 is located in the center of the performance screen 500. The performance pattern display area 501 is basically three areas arranged horizontally, and displays the left performance pattern 501a, the center performance pattern 501b, and the right performance pattern 501c in order from the left. After starting the display of the three performance patterns, the performance pattern display area 501 temporarily stops the left performance pattern 501a in a shaking state. Following the temporary stop of the left performance pattern 501a, the performance pattern display area 501 temporarily stops the right performance pattern 501c in a shaking state. Following the temporary stop of the right performance pattern 501c, the center performance pattern 501b is temporarily stopped in a shaking state. After the three effect symbols are temporarily stopped, the effect symbol display area 501 displays the three temporarily stopped effect symbols in a completely stopped state. When the first special symbol display device 473 or the second special symbol display device 475 displays the big win symbol, the effect symbol display area 501 displays the combination of effect symbols that suggests a big win (for example, a combination of three effect symbols).

[0203] The performance symbol display area 501 may display whether the right performance symbol 501c will be temporarily stopped with the same pattern as the left performance symbol 501a (so-called "reach" state) by changing the display mode (for example, moving speed, size, color, etc.) of the right performance symbol 501c while only the left performance symbol 501a is temporarily stopped. The performance symbol display area 501 displays whether the center performance symbol 501b will be temporarily stopped with the same pattern as the other performance symbols (so-called "jackpot confirmed" state) in a reach state where the left performance symbol 501a and the right performance symbol 501c are temporarily stopped with the same pattern, or whether the performance develops into a performance with a higher expectation of winning a jackpot (so-called "super reach" state). The performance symbol display area 501 displays whether the center performance symbol 501b will be temporarily stopped with the same pattern as the other performance symbols (so-called "jackpot confirmed" state) in the super reach state.

[0204] The first reserved pattern display area 503a of the performance screen 500 is an area that displays a reserved pattern that indicates the existence of a first reserved memory. The first reserved pattern display area 503a is arranged along the left side of the bottom side of the performance screen 500. The first reserved pattern display area 503a displays one reserved pattern for each first reserved memory (the example of FIG. 21 shows the existence of two first reserved memories). When the preceding first reserved memory is consumed, the first reserved pattern display area 503a erases the reserved pattern corresponding to that first reserved memory and slides the reserved pattern corresponding to the subsequent first reserved memory to the left. The second reserved pattern display area 503b of the performance screen 500 is the same as the first reserved pattern display area 503a, except that it is an area that displays a reserved pattern that indicates the existence of a second reserved memory. The second reserved pattern display area 503b is arranged along the right side of the bottom side of the performance screen 500.

[0205] 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a winning / losing effect accompanied by a right hit suggestion SR1. The effect screen 510 is a screen constituting a series of winning / losing effects displayed on the effect pattern display device 480 when the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is not displayed while being changed in a winning / losing state (electric support) including a sure-win game and various time-saving games. The effect screen 510 includes an effect pattern display area 501s, a first reserved symbol display area 503a, a second reserved symbol display area 503b, a right hit suggestion image 512, and a right hit suggestion image 514.

[0206] The performance pattern display area 501s of the performance screen 510 is smaller than the performance pattern display area 501 (FIG. 21) of the performance screen 500, and is similar to the performance pattern display area 501 of the performance screen 500, except that it is arranged along the left side of the upper side of the performance screen 510. The first reserved pattern display area 503a of the performance screen 510 is similar to the performance screen 500. The second reserved pattern display area 503b of the performance screen 510 is similar to the performance screen 500.

[0207] The right hit suggestion image 512 on the presentation screen 510 is an image that suggests to the player to hit the game ball into the right hit game area GA2 as a right hit suggestion SR1. In this embodiment, the right hit suggestion image 512 is an image in which multiple right-pointing arrows are arranged horizontally in the middle of the presentation screen 510 and move horizontally one after another from the left end to the right end of the presentation screen 510. The size of each arrow in the right hit suggestion image 512 occupies about one-third of the vertical and horizontal directions of the presentation screen 510. The upper end of the arrow in the right hit suggestion image 512 overlaps with the presentation pattern display area 501s when it passes below the presentation pattern display area 501s.

[0208] The right hit suggestion image 514 on the presentation screen 510 is an image that suggests to the player to hit the game ball into the right hit game area GA2 as a right hit suggestion SR1. In this embodiment, the right hit suggestion image 514 is an image that overlaps the right hit suggestion image 512 and repeatedly moves the character string "Please hit to the right!" from the left end to the right end of the presentation screen 510.

[0209] 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a winning / losing effect accompanied by a right hit suggestion SR2. The effect screen 520 is a screen constituting a series of winning / losing effects displayed on the effect pattern display device 480 when the first special pattern and the second special pattern are not displayed variably in a winning / losing state (electric support) including a probability change game and various time-saving games. The effect screen 520 includes a first reserved pattern display area 503a, a second reserved pattern display area 503b, and a right hit suggestion image 522.

[0210] The presentation screen 520 does not have an area for displaying presentation patterns, such as the presentation pattern display area 501 and the presentation pattern display area 501s. The presentation screen 520 may have an area for displaying presentation patterns. The first reserved pattern display area 503a of the presentation screen 520 is the same as the presentation screen 500 (FIG. 21). The second reserved pattern display area 503b of the presentation screen 520 is the same as the presentation screen 500.

[0211] The right hit suggestion image 522 on the presentation screen 520 is an image that suggests to the player to hit the game ball into the right hit game area GA2 as a right hit suggestion SR2. In this embodiment, the right hit suggestion image 522 is an image in which multiple right-pointing arrows smaller than the right hit suggestion image 512 are arranged horizontally in the middle of the presentation screen 520 and move horizontally one after another from the left end to the right end of the presentation screen 520. The presentation screen 520 may display a character string suggesting a right hit in the same manner as the right hit suggestion image 514 on the presentation screen 510 or in a more modest manner.

[0212] 24 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a winning / losing effect accompanied by a right hit suggestion SR3. The effect screen 530 is a screen constituting a series of winning / losing effects displayed on the effect pattern display device 480 when the second special symbol is displayed variably in a winning / losing state (electric support) including a sure-win game and various time-saving games. The effect screen 530 includes an effect pattern display area 501, a first reserved symbol display area 503a, a second reserved symbol display area 503b, and a right hit suggestion image 532.

[0213] The effect pattern display area 501 of the effect screen 530 is the same as the effect screen 500 (FIG. 21). The first reserved pattern display area 503a of the effect screen 530 is the same as the effect screen 500. The second reserved pattern display area 503b of the effect screen 530 is the same as the effect screen 500.

[0214] The right hit suggestion image 532 on the presentation screen 530 is an image that suggests to the player to hit the game ball into the right hit game area GA2 as a right hit suggestion SR3. In this embodiment, the right hit suggestion image 532 is an image in which a plurality of right-pointing arrows, which are smaller than those of the right hit suggestion image 522, are arranged horizontally along the upper side of the presentation screen 530 and move horizontally one after another from the left end to the right end of the presentation screen 530. The presentation screen 530 may display a character string suggesting a right hit in the same manner as the right hit suggestion image 514 on the presentation screen 510 or in a more modest manner.

[0215] According to the first embodiment described above, the suggestion state suggesting the launch of the game ball into the right hit game area GA2 is changed depending on whether or not the first and second special symbols are displayed in a ball-scoring state (electric support), thereby encouraging the player to play smoothly. In addition, the right hit suggestion SR1 (FIG. 22) by the presentation screen 510 can direct the player's interest to the right hit suggestion image 512 by displaying a part of the right hit suggestion image 512 superimposed on the presentation pattern display area 501s, which is of relatively high interest to the player, and therefore the suggestion of a right hit can be emphasized to the player.

[0216] B. Second embodiment FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a winning / losing effect accompanied by a right hit suggestion SR1 in the second embodiment. The pachinko game machine 10 of the second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the form of the right hit suggestion SR1 is different. The effect screen 510b of the second embodiment is a screen constituting a series of winning / losing effects displayed on the effect pattern display device 480 when the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is not displayed while changing in a ball-winning easy state (electric support) including a sure-win game and various time-saving games. The effect screen 510b is similar to the effect screen 510 (FIG. 22), except that it does not have an effect pattern display area 501s.

[0217] According to the second embodiment described above, it is possible to encourage the player to play smoothly, as in the first embodiment. In addition, since the right hit suggestion SR1 (FIG. 25) by the presentation screen 510b does not include the presentation pattern display area 501s in which the player is relatively interested, the player's interest in the right hit suggestion image 512 and the right hit suggestion image 514 is relatively high, and therefore the suggestion of right hit can be emphasized to the player.

[0218] C. Third embodiment FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a winning / losing effect accompanied by a right hit suggestion SR1 in the third embodiment. The pachinko game machine 10 in the third embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the form of the right hit suggestion SR1 is different. The effect screen 510c in the third embodiment is a screen constituting a series of winning / losing effects displayed on the effect pattern display device 480 when the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is not displayed while the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is displayed while the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is displayed while the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is displayed. The effect screen 510c is similar to the effect screen 510 (FIG. 22), except that the effect pattern display area 501 is provided instead of the effect pattern display area 501s. The effect pattern display area 501 of the effect screen 510c is similar to the effect screen 500 (FIG. 21). The right hit suggestion image 512 and the right hit suggestion image 514 of the effect screen 510c are displayed superimposed on the effect pattern display area 501.

[0219] According to the third embodiment described above, it is possible to encourage the player to play smoothly, as in the first embodiment. In addition, the right hit suggestion SR1 (FIG. 26) by the effect screen 510c can direct the player's interest to the right hit suggestion image 512 and the right hit suggestion image 514 by superimposing the right hit suggestion image 512 and the right hit suggestion image 514 on the effect pattern display area 501 where the player's interest is relatively high, and therefore it is possible to emphasize the suggestion of right hit to the player.

[0220] D. Fourth embodiment The pachinko game machine 10 of the fourth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the conditions for executing the right hit suggestion SR1, SR2, and SR3 are different. In the fourth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the probability of the second special symbol being awarded (100%) is higher than the probability of the first special symbol being awarded (50%), so that the jackpot game (special game) based on the second hit / miss judgment is more advantageous to the player than the jackpot game (special game) based on the first hit / miss judgment. In other embodiments, the special game based on the second hit / miss judgment may be more advantageous to the player than the special game based on the first hit / miss judgment by setting the number of prize balls that can be obtained in the special game based on the second hit / miss judgment to be greater than the number of prize balls that can be obtained in the special game based on the first hit / miss judgment.

[0221] The right hit suggestion in the fourth embodiment includes a plurality of right hit suggestion SR1, SR2, and SR3 with different suggestion modes, as in the first embodiment. The right hit suggestion SR2 is a mode that emphasizes the suggestion of a right hit more than the right hit suggestion SR3, and the right hit suggestion SR1 is a mode that emphasizes the suggestion of a right hit even more than the right hit suggestion SR2.

[0222] The right hit suggestion SR1 of the fourth embodiment is a right hit suggestion executed in a first manner when the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is not displayed during a probability variable game. The right hit suggestion SR2 of the fourth embodiment is a right hit suggestion executed in a second manner when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not displayed during a probability variable game, and when the second special symbol is not displayed during various time-saving games. The right hit suggestion SR3 of the fourth embodiment is a right hit suggestion executed when the second special symbol is displayed during a probability variable game and various time-saving games.

[0223] According to the fourth embodiment described above, the suggestion state suggesting the launch of the game ball into the right-hitting game area GA2 is changed depending on the presence or absence of the variable display of the first and second special symbols in the ball entry easy state (electric support) including the time-saving game and the probability variation game, so that the player can be encouraged to play smoothly. Also, the player can be encouraged to play smoothly so that the player can avoid a situation that is relatively disadvantageous to the player, that is, the player wins the jackpot game based on the first win / loss judgment instead of the jackpot game based on the second win / loss judgment in the probability variation game.

[0224] E. Fifth embodiment The pachinko game machine 10 of the fifth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the conditions for executing the right hit suggestion SR1, SR2, and SR3 are different. The right hit suggestion in the fifth embodiment includes a plurality of right hit suggestion SR1, SR2, and SR3 with different suggestion modes, as in the first embodiment. The right hit suggestion SR2 is a mode that emphasizes the suggestion of a right hit more than the right hit suggestion SR3, and the right hit suggestion SR1 is a mode that emphasizes the suggestion of a right hit even more than the right hit suggestion SR2.

[0225] The right hit suggestion SR1 of the fifth embodiment is a right hit suggestion executed in a first manner when the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is not displayed in the a time-saving game (first time-saving game). The right hit suggestion SR2 of the fifth embodiment is a right hit suggestion executed in a second manner when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not displayed in the a time-saving game (first time-saving game) and when the second special symbol is not displayed in the b time-saving game and the c time-saving game (second time-saving game). The right hit suggestion SR3 of the fifth embodiment is a right hit suggestion executed when the second special symbol is displayed in various time-saving games (first time-saving game and second time-saving game).

[0226] According to the fifth embodiment described above, the suggestion state suggesting the launch of the game ball into the right-hitting game area GA2 is changed depending on the presence or absence of the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol in the ball entry easy state (electric support) including various time-saving games, so that the player can be encouraged to play smoothly. In addition, when the game shifts from the normal game to the a time-saving game (first time-saving game) following the end of the jackpot game (special game), it is possible to emphasize that the game state advantageous to the player continues. As a result, the interest of the game can be improved.

[0227] F. Other Embodiments The technology disclosed in this specification is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, example, and modification, and can be realized in various configurations without departing from the spirit thereof. For example, among the technical features in the above-mentioned embodiment, example, and modification, those corresponding to the technical features in each form described in the Summary of the Invention column can be appropriately replaced and combined in order to solve some or all of the above-mentioned problems or to achieve some or all of the above-mentioned effects. In addition, technical features that are not described as essential in this specification can be appropriately deleted.

[0228] At least a part of the above-mentioned embodiment can be applied to an enclosed pinball game machine. The enclosed pinball game machine is a pinball game machine in which a predetermined number of game balls are enclosed inside the pinball game machine, and the enclosed game balls are shot toward a play area of ​​a game board, and the game balls collected from the play area are then used again to shoot into the play area, thereby cyclically using the enclosed game balls for play.

[0229] In an embodiment in which the first special pattern and the second special pattern can be changed simultaneously, the presentation screen 530 in FIG. 24 may be a screen which creates a series of win / lose presentations when the second special pattern is being displayed in a changing manner, regardless of whether the first special pattern is being displayed in a changing manner or not.

[0230] The suggestive aspects of the right hit suggestion SR1, SR2, and SR3 are not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and may be any aspect in which the right hit suggestion SR2 emphasizes the suggestion of a right hit more than the right hit suggestion SR3, and the right hit suggestion SR1 emphasizes the suggestion of a right hit even more than the right hit suggestion SR2. The emphasis on the suggestive aspects may be realized by increasing the area ratio of the right hit suggestive image to the performance screen, accelerating the movement speed of the right hit suggestive image, accelerating the blinking speed of the right hit suggestive image, or the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0231] 10...Pachinko machines 80…Card unit 90…Hole computer 110…Outer frame 112…hinge 120…inner frame 120s…Inner frame opening switch 122…hinge 124...Top plate 126…Bottom plate 126s…full switch 128…Keyhole 130...Front frame 130s…Front frame release switch 132...Transparent plate 134...Illumination (frame illumination) 136…Speaker 140…Handle 140b…Handle volume 140m…Launch motor 140s…Fire stop switch 140t…Touch switch 152...Balance display device 154...Ball rental switch 156...Settlement switch 160...Performance button 172... Game ball tank 172s...Bulb failure switch 174...Dispensing device 174d...Discharge motor 174s…Payment switch 210...Main control device 210m…RAM 212...Means for determining whether or not 212a...First correct / incorrect determination means 212b...Second means for determining whether or not 214…Special gaming means 215…Probability change game method 216...a Time-saving game means 217...b Time-saving game means 218...c Time-saving game means 219...Command output means 220...Sub-integrated control device 222... Launch suggestion means 230...Performance pattern control device 240...Dispensing control device 250…Launch control device 260…Rear wiring relay terminal board 265…External connection terminal board 270...Discharge relay terminal board 280...Card unit terminal board 290…Power supply board 292…Power switch 294…RAM clear switch 302...Settings change switch 304...Settings change switch 400…Game board 402…board surface 404...Guide rail 408...Game nail 409...Windmill nail 410…Center case 414…Illumination (display illumination) 420s…General prize entry switch 421...Regular prize slot 430...Normal pattern operation gate 430s…operating gate switch 440...Normal electric device 440d...General purpose solenoid 451…First starting point 451s…First start switch 452…Second starting point 452s…Second start switch 460…Big prize slot 460d…Large entry solenoid 460s…Count switch 471...Normal pattern display device 472…Public drawing holding display device 473…First special pattern display device 474…1st special figure reservation display device 475…Second special pattern display device 476…Second special figure holding display device 480...Performance pattern display device 500...Production screen 501...Performance pattern display area 501, 501s, 502s…Performance pattern display area 501s…Performance pattern display area 503a…First reserved pattern display area 503b…Second reserved pattern display area 510,510b,510c…Production screen 512...Right hit suggestion image 514...Right hit suggestion image 520…Production screen 522...Right hit suggestion image 530...Production screen 532...Right hit suggestion image GA: Gaming area GA1…Left-handed play area GA2: Right-handed play area

Claims

[Claim 1] A first starting hole located in a first game area in which a game ball launched at a launch strength less than a predetermined launch strength mainly rolls; A first hit / miss determination means for performing a first hit / miss determination based on the ball entering the first starting hole; A first special symbol display means for displaying a first special symbol in a variable manner and then displaying the first special symbol in a definite manner based on the result of the judgment by the first win / loss judgment means; A second starting port located in a second game area where the game machine launched at the predetermined launch intensity or higher mainly rolls; A second hit / miss determination means for performing a second hit / miss determination different from the first hit / miss determination based on the ball entering the second starting hole; A second special symbol display means for displaying a second special symbol in a variable manner and then displaying the second special symbol in a definite manner based on the result of the judgment by the second win / loss judgment means; a ball entry facilitating means for setting a ball entry facilitating state in which it is easier to enter the second starting hole than in a normal game; a special game means for executing a special game that is more advantageous to a player than the normal game by opening a special prize opening based on the results of the first win / loss judgment and the second win / loss judgment; a first time-saving game means for executing a first time-saving game in which, following the end of the special game, a winning probability of the special game is set to a normal probability equal to that of the normal game in the first winning / losing judgment and the second winning / losing judgment in the easy-to-score state based on a judgment result that caused the special game; A second time-saving game means for executing a second time-saving game in which the winning probability is set to the normal probability in the easy-to-score state by switching from the normal game based on a result of the first winning / losing judgment or the second winning / losing judgment in the normal game; a ball hitting suggestion means for executing a hitting suggestion that suggests to a player to hit a game ball into the second game area; A pinball game machine comprising: The hit ball suggestion means includes: When the first special symbol is displayed while the second special symbol is not displayed in the first time-saving game, the hitting suggestion is executed in a first suggestion mode; When the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not displayed in the first time-saving game, and when the second special symbol is not displayed in the second time-saving game regardless of whether the first special symbol is displayed in the second time-saving game, the hitting suggestion is executed in a second suggestion mode different from the first suggestion mode; When the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner in the first time-saving game and the second time-saving game, the hitting suggestion is executed in a third suggestion mode different from the first suggestion mode and the second suggestion mode; The first suggestion mode is a mode in which the right hit suggestion is emphasized more than the second suggestion mode, and the second suggestion mode is a mode in which the right hit suggestion is emphasized more than the third suggestion mode, A pinball game machine characterized by:

Images