Gaming Machines

Abstract

To further enhance interest in a game by a read-ahead performance.SOLUTION: In a pinball game machine, first to third modes as a read-ahead performance are selected with a different selection ratio corresponding to a read-ahead determination result in accordance with a specific reservation storage in which a specific pattern variation performance is scheduled to be executed. In the first mode, one of a reservation notice performance and a light guide plate performance is executed during a specific performance period for executing up to a specific special pattern variation display from a special pattern variation display in read-ahead. In the second mode, both of the reservation notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special pattern variation display until completion of a next special pattern variation display during the specific performance period. In the third mode, one of the reservation notice performance and the light guide plate performance is executed at least until completion of the next special pattern variation display during the specific performance period, and both of the reservation notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special pattern variation display after completion of the next special pattern variation display.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 21

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] As one form of pinball game machine, there is a type that holds multiple reserved memories that record information based on the ball entering the starting hole, and judges whether the ball has won or lost based on the reserved memories. Among such pinball game machines, there is known one that judges the information in the reserved memories before judging whether the ball has won or lost, and executes a pre-reading performance that is a performance based on the judgment result. Patent Document 1 discloses, as a pre-reading performance, a performance that changes the display mode of a reserved pattern corresponding to the reserved memory, and a performance that emits light from the front of a light guide plate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-195576 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In gaming machines, there is a demand for further enhancement of the entertainment value of the game through predictive effects. [Means for solving the problem]

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

[0006] (1) A pinball game machine in one embodiment disclosed in this specification comprises a reserve memory means for reserve-storing information acquired based on a ball entering a starting hole; a reserve display means for displaying a reserve to identify the number of the reserve memories; a win / lose determination means for determining whether a win / lose is based on the information; a pattern display means for announcing the result of the determination by the win / lose determination means by displaying a pattern changing display in which a pattern is displayed in a varying manner and then displaying a predetermined pattern as a confirmation; a performance display means for displaying a performance corresponding to the pattern changing display; a pre-reading determination means for pre-reading the information before the win / lose determination means; a reserve notice performance means for executing a reserve notice performance that changes the display mode of the reserve display as a pre-reading performance performed based on the result of the determination by the pre-reading determination means; and a light guide plate performance means for executing a light guide plate performance that emits light from the front surface of a light guide plate provided in front of and overlapping the display area of ​​the performance display. In this pinball game machine, the execution mode of the pre-reading performance includes a first mode in which either one of the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance is executed during a specific performance period from when the pre-reading judgment is performed until a specific pattern change display by the reserved memory in which the pre-reading judgment is performed; a second mode in which both the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed by the end of the next pattern change display that starts after the pre-reading judgment is performed during the specific performance period; and a third mode in which either one of the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance is executed at least until the end of the next pattern change display during the specific performance period, and the other is executed in the pattern change display after the next pattern change display. The selection rate of each of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode is a different value depending on the judgment result of the information by the pre-reading judgment means. According to this type of pinball game machine, even if the same specific symbol change performance is performed, the winning expectation can be changed depending on whether the performance execution mode of the pre-reading performance during the specific performance period before the performance of the symbol change performance is the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode. This makes it possible to make the player have a sense of expectation that the progress of the pre-reading performance during the specific performance period will be more likely to be advantageous to the player. As a result, the pre-reading performance can further increase the interest in the game.

[0007] (2) A pinball game machine in one embodiment disclosed in this specification comprises a reserve memory means for retaining and storing information acquired based on a ball entering a starting hole; a reserve display means for displaying a reserve to identify the number of the reserve memories; a win / lose determination means for determining whether a win / lose is based on the information; a pattern display means for notifying the result of the determination by the win / lose determination means by displaying a pattern changing display in which a pattern is displayed in a varying manner and then displaying a predetermined pattern as a confirmation; a performance display means for displaying a performance corresponding to the pattern changing display; a pre-reading determination means for pre-reading and determining the information before the win / lose determination means; a reserve notice performance means for executing a reserve notice performance that changes the display mode of the reserve display as a pre-reading performance performed based on the result of the determination by the pre-reading determination means; and a light guide plate performance means for executing a light guide plate performance that emits light from the front surface of a light guide plate provided in front of and overlapping the display area of ​​the performance display. In this pinball game machine, the execution mode of the pre-reading performance includes a first mode in which either one of the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance is executed during a specific performance period from when the pre-reading judgment is performed until a specific pattern change display by the reserved memory in which the pre-reading judgment is performed; a second mode in which both the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed during the specific performance period until the end of the next pattern change display that starts after the pre-reading judgment is performed; and a third mode in which either one of the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance is executed during the specific performance period at least until the end of the next pattern change display, and the other is executed in the pattern change display after the next pattern change display. The first mode includes a 1a mode in which only the reserved notice performance is executed among the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance during the specific performance period; and a 1b mode in which only the light guide plate performance is executed among the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance during the specific performance period. The selection rates of the 1a mode, the 1b mode, the second mode, and the third mode are different values ​​depending on the determination result of the information by the pre-reading determination means. According to this type of pinball game machine, even if the same specific symbol change performance is performed, the winning expectation can be changed depending on whether the performance execution mode of the pre-reading performance during the specific performance period before the performance of the symbol change performance is the 1a mode, the 1b mode, the 2nd mode, or the 3rd mode. This makes it possible to make the player have a sense of expectation that the progress of the pre-reading performance during the specific performance period will be more likely to be advantageous for the player. As a result, it is possible to further increase the interest of the game by the pre-reading performance.

[0008] (3) A pinball game machine in one embodiment disclosed in this specification includes a reserve storage means for reserving and storing information acquired based on the ball entering the starting hole; a reserve display means for displaying a reserve for identifying the number of the reserve memories; a win / loss judgment means for judging whether or not a win is based on the information; a pattern display means for displaying a pattern that changes and then displaying a predetermined pattern to notify the judgment result by the win / loss judgment means; a performance display means for displaying a performance corresponding to the pattern change display; a pre-reading judgment means for pre-reading and judging the information before the win / loss judgment means; a reserve notice performance means for performing a reserve notice performance that changes the display mode of the reserve display as a pre-reading performance performed based on the judgment result by the pre-reading judgment means; and a light guide plate performance means for performing a light guide plate performance that emits light from the front of a light guide plate provided in front of and overlapping the display area of ​​the performance display. This pinball game machine further includes a change-in-change reserve display means for performing a change-in-change reserve display corresponding to the pattern change display being executed in accordance with the hold display. The hold notice performance includes a performance that changes the display mode of the pending display during change. The execution mode of the look-ahead performance includes a first mode in which either the hold notice performance or the light guide plate performance is executed during a specific performance period from when the look-ahead judgment is performed until a specific pattern change display by the pending memory in which the look-ahead judgment is performed; a second mode in which both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed during the specific performance period by the end of the next pattern change display that starts after the look-ahead judgment is performed; and a third mode in which, during the specific performance period, only the light guide plate performance is executed out of the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance until the start of the specific pattern change display, and the hold notice performance by the pending display during change is executed while the specific pattern change display is being executed. The selection rate of selecting each of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode is a value that differs depending on the judgment result of the information by the look-ahead judgment means. According to this type of pinball game machine, even if the same specific symbol change performance is performed, the winning expectation can be changed depending on whether the performance execution mode of the pre-reading performance during the specific performance period before the performance of the symbol change performance is the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode. This makes it possible to make the player have a sense of expectation that the progress of the pre-reading performance during the specific performance period will be more likely to be advantageous to the player. As a result, the pre-reading performance can further increase the interest in 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] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration mainly including a main control device and a sub integrated control device. [Figure 21] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a pattern change effect and a reserved pattern. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a specific pattern change presentation. [Figure 23] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a hold notice performance and a changing hold notice performance. [Figure 24] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a light guide plate effect. [Diagram 25] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the presentation execution mode of the pre-reading judgment selected by the execution mode selection means. [Figure 26] An explanatory diagram showing an example of the selection rate of the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment selected by the execution mode selection means. [Figure 27] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the selection rate of the performance execution mode of the pre-reading determination selected by the execution mode selection means in the second embodiment. [Figure 28]FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the presentation execution mode of the pre-reading determination selected by the execution mode selection means in the third embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the selection rate of the performance execution mode of the pre-reading determination selected by the execution mode selection means 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 (a 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] 3(a), 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 holes 421, 422, 423, 424, a normal symbol operation gate 430, a normal electric role 440, a first start hole 451, a second start hole 452, and a big winning hole 460. The game board 400 further includes a normal pattern display device 471, a normal pattern reserve display device 472, a first special pattern display device 473, a first special pattern reserve display device 474, a second special pattern display device 475, a second special pattern reserve display device 476, a performance pattern display device 480, and a light guide plate performance device 600.

[0027] The surface 402 of the game board 400 faces the front of the pachinko game machine 10. The guide rails 404, 406 of the game board 400 surround the center of the surface 402 in a circular shape, thereby forming a substantially circular game area GA. A plurality of game nails 408 on the game board 400 are planted on the surface 402 and form a path for game balls to flow through the game area GA. The plurality of 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 and a light guide plate performance device 600 are provided in the center of the center case 410. The performance pattern display device 480 is a display area that displays performance patterns as part of a performance according to the progress of the game. In this embodiment, the performance pattern display device 480 is a liquid crystal display (LCD). The light guide plate performance device 600 is a display area that performs a performance using light according to the progress of the game.

[0029] As shown in Fig. 3(b), the light guide plate performance device 600 is provided in front of the performance pattern display device 480 in the center case 410 and at a position overlapping the performance pattern display device 480. In other words, the light guide plate performance device 600 is provided at a position overlapping the performance pattern display device 480 when viewed from a viewing position VD where the player can view the performance pattern display device 480. The light guide plate performance device 600 is configured to transmit light from the performance pattern display device 480 and be visible from the viewing position VD.

[0030] The light guide plate performance device 600 includes a light guide plate 620 and a light emitter 630. The light guide plate 620 is a plate-shaped member that guides light incident therein to the surface and emits it. In this embodiment, the light guide plate 620 is made of transparent acrylic resin. The light emitter 630 is configured to be able to emit light in accordance with the progress of the game. In this embodiment, the light emitter 630 is a light emitting diode (LED).

[0031] The light guide plate 620 of the light guide plate performance device 600 has a light guide plate front surface 622, a light guide plate back surface 624, and a light guide plate end surface 626. A transparent diffusion layer (diffusion sheet) is formed on the light guide plate front surface 622. An optical pattern corresponding to the state of light to be emitted at the light guide plate front surface 622 is formed on the light guide plate back surface 624, and a transparent reflection layer (reflection sheet) is formed. The light guide plate 620 emits light incident on the light guide plate end surface 626 from the light emitter 630 forward from the light guide plate front surface 622, separately from the transmitted light from the performance pattern display device 480.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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 role 440 is disposed on the right side of the center case 410 and below the normal symbol activation gate 430.

[0035] 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 start port 452, and when open, it allows the passage of the game ball flowing down to the second start port 452. The normal electric device 440 opens only when the result of the determination of the normal symbol is a win. The normal electric device 440 is located on the right side of the center case 410 and below the normal symbol activation gate 430.

[0036] The first starting opening 451 of the game board 400 is a winning opening configured to allow game balls flowing down the game area GA to enter. The entry of a game ball into the first starting opening 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 opening 451 is located at the center lower part of the center case 410.

[0037] 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 determination (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 and below the normal symbol activation gate 430, together with the normal electric device 440.

[0038] The large prize opening 460 of the game board 400 is a prize 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 large 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 large prize opening 460 opens only when the result of the lottery using the special symbols is a win (for example, a big win, a small win, etc.). The entry of a game ball into the large prize opening 460 triggers the payout of a prize ball. The large prize opening 460 is located on the lower right side of the center case 410.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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 memories 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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, performance pattern control device 230, and light guide plate performance device 600 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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%

[0058] 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.

[0059] The a-time-short game (a-time-short state) is a time-short game (time-short state) 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 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 19 / 20

[0060] The b-time-short game (b-time-short state) is a time-short game (time-short state) 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 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

[0061] The c-time shortening game (c-time shortening state) is a time shortening game (time shortening state) that is given without going through a big win 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 big win 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> <c-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

[0062] Note that since the b-time shortening state and the c-time shortening state are not executed via a big win 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 executed via a big win game either, or only the winning probability of the a-time shortening state may be 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.

[0063] Figure 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 (Figure 5) as a timer interrupt process with a 2 ms cycle.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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).

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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).

[0071] 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".

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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".

[0074] 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".

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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".

[0077] 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".

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] After executing the normal power operation process (step S54), the main control device 210 executes the special game process (step S56). In the special game process (step S56), the main control device 210 controls the special game (e.g., big win game, small win game, etc.) based on the winning of the special symbol. The details of the special game process (step S56) will be described later.

[0082] After executing the special game process (step S56), 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.

[0083] 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 S70) until the next timer interrupt.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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).

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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 "a big hit with a specific symbol change", "a miss with a specific symbol change performance", and "other than a specific symbol change performance". The judgment result of the pre-reading judgment may include "a big hit", "a miss with a super reach performance", "a miss with a normal reach performance", and "a miss without implementing a reach 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 ball pre-reading judgment process (step S130), the main control device 210 checks whether the ball has entered the second starting hole 452 (step S100b).

[0090] 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).

[0091] 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).

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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).

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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).

[0097] 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).

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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).

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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).

[0102] 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).

[0103] 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).

[0104] 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).

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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).

[0108] 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).

[0109] 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).

[0110] 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.).

[0111] 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).

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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).

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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).

[0120] 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).

[0121] 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).

[0122] 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).

[0123] 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).

[0124] 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).

[0125] 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).

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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).

[0128] 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).

[0129] 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).

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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).

[0132] 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).

[0133] 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).

[0134] 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).

[0135] 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).

[0136] 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).

[0137] 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).

[0138] 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).

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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).

[0141] 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).

[0142] 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).

[0143] After decrementing the arrival counter Ct (step S380), the main control device 210 judges whether the arrival counter Ct is a value "0" or not (step S381). In this embodiment, after the b time-saving game is once granted, the b time-saving game is not granted again unless a jackpot game is played. Therefore, the main control device 210 does not judge that the arrival counter Ct is a value "0" if a jackpot game is not played after the b time-saving game. If the arrival counter Ct is a value "0" (step S381: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the arrival counter Ct to an initial value (in this embodiment, a 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).

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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 judgment process (FIGS. 8 to 12).

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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).

[0148] 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).

[0149] 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).

[0150] 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).

[0151] 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).

[0152] 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).

[0153] 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).

[0154] 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).

[0155] 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).

[0156] 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).

[0157] 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".

[0158] 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".

[0159] 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".

[0160] 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".

[0161] 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).

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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).

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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).

[0166] 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).

[0167] 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).

[0168] 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).

[0169] 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 a probability variable game or a time-saving game is being executed (step S625).

[0170] If a special rate game or a time-limited game is being played (step S625: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines whether the random number for determining a win read from the reserved memory is a winning value or not by referring to a high-probability normal win / loss determination table (high probability table) (step S630).

[0171] If a special bonus game or a time-limited game is not being played (step S625: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether the random number for determining a win read from the reserved memory is a winning value or not by referring to a low-probability normal win / loss determination table (low probability table) (step S635).

[0172] 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).

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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).

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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).

[0177] 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).

[0178] 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).

[0179] 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).

[0180] 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).

[0181] 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).

[0182] 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.

[0183] 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).

[0184] 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).

[0185] 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 for 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).

[0186] 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.

[0187] 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).

[0188] 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).

[0189] 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).

[0190] 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).

[0191] 20 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration mainly including the main control device 210 and the sub integrated control device 220. The main control device 210 includes a reserved memory means 212, a look-ahead determination means 214, a win / lose determination means 216, and a command output means 219 as components related to the control of the game progress. Each component of the main control device 210 is realized in software based on a computer program. In other embodiments, at least a part of the various means of the main control device 210 may be realized in hardware based on a circuit configuration.

[0192] The reserved memory means 212 of the main control device 210 is configured to be able to hold a plurality of reserved memories that record information based on the ball entering the first start port switch 451s, and the number of reserved memories is displayed on the first special chart reserved display device 474. The reserved memory means 212 is configured to be able to hold a plurality of reserved memories that record information based on the ball entering the second start port switch 452s, and the number of reserved memories is displayed on the second special chart reserved display device 476. The reserved memory means 212 is a means for executing the special chart extraction random number reserved memory process (step S110) and the special chart extraction random number reserved memory process (step S110b) in the special chart start ball entry confirmation process (FIG. 6).

[0193] The pre-reading judgment means 214 of the main control device 210 judges the reserved memory information before the hit / miss judgment by the hit / miss judgment means 216. The pre-reading judgment means 214 is a means for executing the reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130) and the reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130b) in the special chart start ball entry confirmation process (FIG. 6).

[0194] The winning / losing determination means 216 of the main control device 210 determines the winning / losing based on the reserved memory. The winning / losing determination means 216 is a means for executing the winning / losing determination (steps S230 and S235 in FIG. 8) in the special drawing winning / losing determination process.

[0195] The first special symbol display device 473 of the main control device 210 is a special symbol display means for notifying the result of the judgment by the win / lose judgment means 216 by a special symbol variable display that variably displays the first special symbol. The second special symbol display device 475 of the main control device 210 is a special symbol display means for notifying the result of the judgment by the win / lose judgment means 216 by a special symbol variable display that variably displays the second special symbol.

[0196] 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. In this embodiment, the command output means 219 outputs a command including information related to performance control to the sub-integrated control device 220 in the special symbol reservation number command transmission process (steps S120 and S120S in FIG. 6), the reservation information transmission process (step S270 in FIG. 9), the special symbol variation start process (step S275 in FIG. 9), the confirmed symbol display process (step S285 in FIG. 8), and the like.

[0197] The sub-integrated control device 220 includes, as components related to performance control, a reserved symbol display means 222, a symbol variation performance means 224, an execution mode selection means 226, a reserved notice performance means 227, and a light guide plate performance means 228. Each component 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.

[0198] The reserved symbol display means 222 of the sub-integrated control device 220 cooperates with the performance symbol control device 230 and the performance symbol display device 480 to display reserved symbols corresponding to the reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 212. In this embodiment, the reserved symbol display means 222 can also operate as a changing reserved symbol display means for displaying a changing reserved symbol corresponding to the currently executed symbol changing performance. Details of the reserved symbol and the changing reserved symbol will be described later.

[0199] The symbol variation performance means 224 of the sub-integrated control device 220 executes a symbol variation performance that varies and displays the performance symbols in accordance with the special symbol variation display by the first special symbol display device 473 and the second special symbol display device 475. The symbol variation performance will be described in detail later.

[0200] The reserved notice performance means 227 of the sub-integrated control device 220 executes a reserved notice performance that changes the display mode of the reserved pattern corresponding to the reserved memory that is the basis of the judgment result based on the judgment result by the look-ahead judgment means 214. The reserved notice performance means 227 can also operate as a changing reserved notice performance means that executes a changing reserved notice performance that changes the display mode of the changing reserved pattern. The details of the reserved notice performance and the changing reserved notice performance, which are one of the look-ahead performances, will be described later.

[0201] The light guide plate performance means 228 of the sub integrated control device 220 executes a light guide plate performance that causes light to be emitted from the light guide plate front surface 622 of the light guide plate 620, based on the determination result by the look-ahead determination means 214. The light guide plate performance, which is one of the look-ahead performances, will be described in detail later.

[0202] The execution mode selection means 226 of the sub-integrated control device 220 selects an effect execution mode for executing at least one of the reserved notice effect and the light guide plate effect. The effect execution mode includes a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode as modes selected corresponding to a specific reserved memory in which the execution of a specific pattern change effect is scheduled. The selection rate for selecting each of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode is a different value depending on the judgment result of the specific reserved memory by the look-ahead judgment means 214.

[0203] The first, second and third modes are executed in a specific performance period SP in which a special symbol variable display at the time of pre-reading in which the pre-reading judgment means 214 judges a specific reserved memory is executed, and then a specific special symbol variable display corresponding to the specific reserved memory is executed. The first mode is a mode in which either the reserved notice performance or the light guide plate performance is executed in the specific performance period SP. The second mode is a mode in which, in the specific performance period SP, by the end of the next special symbol variable display following the special symbol variable display at the time of pre-reading, both the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special symbol variable display. The third mode is a mode in which, in the specific performance period SP, either the reserved notice performance or the light guide plate performance is executed at least until the end of the next special symbol variable display, and both the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special symbol variable display after the end of the next special symbol variable display.

[0204] 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the symbol change effect and the reserved symbol. The effect screen 500 is a screen constituting a series of effect videos displayed on the effect symbol display device 480. The effect screen 500 includes an effect symbol display area 501, a changing reserved symbol 502, and four reserved symbols 503 to 506.

[0205] The effect pattern display area 501 of the effect screen 500 is an area that displays a pattern change effect that changes and displays the effect pattern according to the special pattern change display by the first special pattern and the second special pattern. The effect pattern display area 501 is located in the center of the effect screen 500.

[0206] The performance pattern display area 501 is a basic performance mode in which three areas are arranged horizontally, and from the left, a left performance pattern 501a, a center performance pattern 501b, and a right performance pattern 501c are displayed in a variable manner. After starting to display the three performance patterns in a variable manner, the performance pattern display area 501 temporarily stops the left performance pattern 501a in a swaying state (Fig. 21(a)). 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 swaying state (Fig. 21(b)). Following the temporary stop of the right performance pattern 501c, the center performance pattern 501b is temporarily stopped in a swaying state (Fig. 21(c)). After the three performance patterns are temporarily stopped, the performance pattern display area 501 displays the three temporarily stopped performance patterns in a completely stopped state (Fig. 21(d)). When a jackpot pattern is confirmed and displayed on the first special pattern display device 473 or the second special pattern display device 475, the effect pattern display area 501 confirms and displays a combination of effect patterns that suggests a jackpot win (for example, a combination of three effect patterns).

[0207] In the state where only the left side performance pattern 501a is temporarily stopped (FIG. 21(a)), the performance pattern display area 501 may change the display mode (for example, moving speed, size, color, etc.) of the right side performance pattern 501c to show whether the right side performance pattern 501c will be temporarily stopped with the same pattern as the left side performance pattern 501a (so-called "reach" state). In the reach state (FIG. 21(b)) where the left side performance pattern 501a and the right side performance pattern 501c are temporarily stopped with the same pattern, the performance pattern display area 501 shows whether the center performance pattern 501b will be temporarily stopped with the same pattern as the other performance patterns (so-called "jackpot confirmed" state), or whether it will develop into a performance with a higher expectation of winning a jackpot (so-called "super reach" state). The effect symbol display area 501 indicates whether or not the central effect symbol 501b will temporarily stop with the same symbol as the other effect symbols in the super reach state (the so-called "jackpot confirmed" state).

[0208] The changing reserved pattern 502 on the performance screen 500 corresponds to the currently running special pattern change display (the currently running pattern change display in the performance pattern display area 501), and is a pattern that forms a display mode conforming to the reserved patterns 503 to 506. In this embodiment, the changing reserved pattern 502 is a pattern that is an enlargement of the reserved patterns 503 to 506, and is located in the center of the lower part of the performance screen 500.

[0209] Reserved symbols 503-506 on the presentation screen 500 are images corresponding to the reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 212. Reserved symbol 503 indicates the presence of the first reserved memory among the reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 212. Reserved symbol 504 indicates the presence of the second reserved memory among the reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 212. Reserved symbol 505 indicates the presence of the third reserved memory among the reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 212. Reserved symbol 505 indicates the presence of the fourth reserved memory among the reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 212.

[0210] In this embodiment, the reserved symbols 503 to 506 are each a circular symbol, and are not displayed if there is no corresponding reserved memory. The changing reserved symbol 502 is a circular symbol larger than the reserved symbols 503 to 506. If no reserved memory is held and the special symbol changing display is not executed, the changing reserved symbol 502 is not displayed. In the example of FIG. 21(a), three reserved symbols 503 to 505 are displayed as a state in which three reserved memories are held, and the reserved symbol 506 is not displayed.

[0211] FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a specific symbol change performance. The performance screen 500N in FIG. 22(a) is a screen that displays a performance pattern display area 501 in a reach state as a reach performance. The performance screen 500S in FIG. 22(b) is a screen that displays a "battle reach" that is set as a specific symbol change performance as one of the super reach performances developed from the performance screen 500N. In the examples of FIG. 22(a) and FIG. 22(b), four reserved patterns 503 to 506 are displayed as a state in which four reserved memories are held.

[0212] The presentation screen 500S includes a presentation symbol display area 501s and a presentation video display area 510 as display areas constituting a "battle reach" which is a specific symbol change presentation. The presentation symbol display area 501s is the same as the presentation symbol display area 501, except that it is displayed in a reduced form in the upper right corner of the presentation screen. The presentation video display area 510 displays a video of the "battle reach" in which the boy challenges an opponent to a match. In the video of the "battle reach", if the special symbol is judged to be a jackpot, the boy wins, and if the special symbol is judged to be a miss, the boy loses.

[0213] Fig. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the reserved notice performance and the changing reserved notice performance. The performance screen 500 in Fig. 23(a) is a screen showing how the reserved notice performance is executed in the reserved pattern 506. The performance screen 500 in Fig. 23(b) is a screen showing how the reserved notice performance is executed in the reserved pattern 505. The performance screen 500 in Fig. 23(c) is a screen showing how the changing reserved notice performance is executed in the changing reserved pattern 502.

[0214] Among the reserved patterns 503 to 506, the reserved patterns that are the subject of the reserved notice performance are replaced with a pre-read reserved pattern (reserved pattern 506 in FIG. 23(a)) that is a pattern different from the normal reserved patterns (reserved patterns 503 to 505 in FIG. 23(a)). In the reserved patterns 503 to 506 of this embodiment, the normal reserved patterns are white circles, and the pre-read reserved patterns are blue circles. The pre-read reserved patterns are not limited to a color different from the normal reserved patterns, and may be a shape different from the normal reserved patterns. The pre-read reserved patterns may include a plurality of display modes (e.g., different colors such as blue, green, red, etc.) according to the degree of expectation such as the degree of expectation of developing into a reach, the degree of expectation of developing into a super reach, the degree of expectation of a jackpot, etc.

[0215] Among the reserved symbols 503 to 506, the reserved symbols that are the subject of the reserved notice performance take over and display the pre-read reserved symbols when the preceding reserved memory is consumed. For example, as shown in FIG. 23(a), when the reserved symbol 506 displays the pre-read reserved symbol, if the preceding reserved memory is consumed, the reserved symbol 505 takes over and displays the pre-read reserved symbol from the reserved symbol 506 as shown in FIG. 23(b).

[0216] Regarding the timing of displaying the pre-reading reserved patterns, the reserved patterns 503 to 506 may be displayed without displaying the normal reserved patterns when adding reserved patterns in response to ball entry into the first starting hole 451 or the second starting hole 452, or may be replaced with the pre-reading reserved patterns after displaying the normal reserved patterns. Also, the reserved patterns 503 to 505 may be replaced with the pre-reading reserved patterns after displaying the normal reserved patterns that were inherited when the preceding reserved memory was consumed.

[0217] The pending-changing pattern 502 that is the subject of the pending-changing notice performance is replaced with a pre-reading pending-changing pattern (pending-changing pattern 502 in FIG. 23(c)) that is a pattern different from the normal pending-changing pattern (pending-changing pattern 502 in FIG. 23(a)) in a display mode conforming to the reserved patterns 503 to 506. In the pending-changing pattern 502 of this embodiment, the normal pending-changing pattern is a white circle, and the pre-reading pending-changing pattern is a blue circle, conforming to the reserved patterns 503 to 506.

[0218] When the preceding special pattern change display ends and a normal reserved pattern is displayed in the reserved pattern 503, the changing reserved pattern 502 displays the normal changing reserved pattern in a manner that takes over the normal reserved pattern. When the preceding special pattern change display ends and a pre-reading reserved pattern is displayed in the reserved pattern 503, the changing reserved pattern 502 displays the pre-reading reserved pattern in a manner that takes over the pre-reading reserved pattern.

[0219] Regarding the timing of displaying the pre-reading changing reserved pattern, the pre-reading changing reserved pattern 502 may display the pre-reading changing reserved pattern without displaying the normal changing reserved pattern in response to the ball entering the first starting port 451 or the second starting port 452 in a state where there is no reserved memory, or may display the pre-reading changing reserved pattern after displaying the normal changing reserved pattern. Also, the pre-reading changing reserved pattern 502 may display the pre-reading changing reserved pattern after displaying the normal changing reserved pattern inherited from the reserved pattern 503. The timing of the change of the reserved pattern in the reserved notice performance may be configured to select one from a plurality of scenarios (at what timing it changes, how many times it changes, and what color the pattern will ultimately become). The scenario may include a pattern in which only the changing reserved pattern changes. In this form, the pre-reading performance is performed only with the target changing display as a notice performance, but since the performance is determined by the pre-reading judgment, this is also treated as a pre-reading performance. Of course, the configuration may be such that a reserved change performance is performed with the reserved pattern during the change, provided that no pre-reading performance was performed when the change began.

[0220] FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a light guide plate effect. The effect image 610 in FIG. 24(a) is an image displayed on the light guide plate front surface 622 as a light guide plate effect, superimposed on the front of the effect screen 500. In this embodiment, the effect image 610 is an image depicting an anthropomorphized bear character "Tatsuyoshi the Bear." In this embodiment, the effect pattern display area 501s is arranged in a position that does not overlap with the effect image 610 while the light guide plate effect is being performed. The effect image 610 may include a plurality of display modes (e.g., different colors such as blue, green, red, etc.) according to the degree of expectation, such as the degree of expectation of developing into a reach, the degree of expectation of developing into a super reach, or the degree of expectation of a jackpot.

[0221] Regarding the timing of displaying the performance image 610, the performance image 610 may be displayed during a predetermined period during which each of the performance patterns of the left side performance pattern 501a, the center performance pattern 501b, and the right side performance pattern 501c is displayed in a variable manner, or during a predetermined period during which at least one of the performance patterns of the left side performance pattern 501a, the center performance pattern 501b, and the right side performance pattern 501c is temporarily stopped. When the light guide plate performance is performed as a pre-reading performance, an image is displayed for a predetermined period at the start of the variation, and the display ends after the predetermined period has elapsed. Therefore, since it ends while the performance pattern is changing at high speed, it does not interfere with the visibility of the variation performance by the performance pattern. Such a performance is performed over several variations until the variation that is the target of the pre-reading performance is performed. This is called a light guide plate performance as a pre-reading performance. The light guide plate effect may display an image as a chance increase (increased expectation of winning) during a super reach, may entertain by having multiple expectation of winning according to differences in the light emission color and the number of times it is displayed, may be displayed during a celebration effect when a win is decided, or may be used for promotion effects during a big win game (increasing the number of rounds, confirming that a probability change will be given after a big win, etc.). In addition, the light guide plate effect is not limited to the light emission color, and may be configured such that different patterns are displayed by selecting the light guide plate to be emitted in a configuration in which multiple light guide plates with different decorations are overlapped. This allows a wide range of expectations to be shown by the combination of the light emission color and the pattern.

[0222] The example of Figure 24 (b) is an example of a state in which the light guide plate performance and the hold notice performance are executed simultaneously. In this example, the performance image 610 is displayed as the light guide plate performance, and the pre-reading hold pattern is displayed in the hold pattern 506 as the hold notice performance.

[0223] The example of Figure 24 (c) is an example of a state in which the light guide plate performance and the variable pending notice performance are executed simultaneously. In this example, the performance image 610 is displayed as the light guide plate performance, and the pre-read variable pending pattern is displayed in the variable pending pattern 502 as the variable pending notice performance.

[0224] FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment selected by the execution mode selection means 226. In the example of FIG. 25, the specific performance period SP in which the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode, which are the performance execution modes of the pre-reading judgment, are executed, is a period from the variable display VD1, which is the special pattern variable display at the time of pre-reading when the judgment of the specific reserved memory by the pre-reading judgment means 214 is executed, through the three variable displays VD2, VD3, and VD4, which are the subsequent special pattern variable displays, to the variable display VD5, which is the specific special pattern variable display corresponding to the specific reserved memory. Note that the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode, which are the performance execution modes of the pre-reading judgment, include the modes excluding the performance of the variable display VD3 among the specific performance period SP shown in FIG. 25.

[0225] The first mode, which is a performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment, is a mode in which either the hold notice performance or the light guide plate performance is executed in the specific performance period SP. The first mode includes the 1a mode and the 1b mode. The 1a mode is a mode in which only the hold notice performance is executed out of the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in the specific performance period SP. The 1b mode is a mode in which only the light guide plate performance is executed out of the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in the specific performance period SP.

[0226] In the example of Fig. 25, the 1a mode starts a hold notice performance after a pre-reading judgment in the variable display VD1, continues the hold notice performance across the variable displays VD2, VD3, and VD4, and then executes a variable hold notice performance that continues the hold notice performance in the variable display VD5. The 1a mode includes a mode in which the hold notice performance is not started in the variable display VD1, but is started from any of the variable displays VD2, VD3, and VD4.

[0227] In the example of Fig. 25, the 1b mode executes the light guide plate performance after the pre-reading judgment in the variable display VD1, and also executes the light guide plate performance in each of the subsequent variable displays VD2, VD3, VD4, and VD5. The 1b mode includes a mode in which the light guide plate performance is executed not from the variable display VD1 but from any one of the variable displays VD2, VD3, and VD4.

[0228] The second mode, which is a performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment, is a mode in which both the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special pattern variable display by the end of the variable display VD2, which is the next special pattern variable display following the variable display VD1, during the specific performance period SP. The second mode includes the 2a mode, the 2b mode, and the 2c mode. The 2a mode is a mode in which both the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance are started in one special pattern variable display by the end of the variable display VD2. The 2b mode is a mode in which the reserved notice performance is executed in advance, and then both the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special pattern variable display by the end of the variable display VD2. The 2c mode is a mode in which both the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special pattern variable display by the end of the variable display VD2, and then the light guide plate performance is executed in advance. Note that, "executing both" as used herein means that each is executed during the same special pattern variable display, and is not limited to being executed simultaneously. The same applies to the following description.

[0229] In the example of Fig. 25, the 2a mode does not execute the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in the variable display VD1, executes both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in the variable display VD2, and executes both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in each of the subsequent variable displays VD2, VD3, and VD4 while continuing the hold notice performance, and then executes both the hold notice performance during the change and the light guide plate performance that takes over the hold notice performance in the variable display VD5. The 2a mode includes a mode in which both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in the variable display VD1.

[0230] In the example of Fig. 25, the 2b mode executes the hold notice performance in advance in the variable display VD1, and then executes both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in the variable display VD2 while continuing the hold notice performance, and executes both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in each of the subsequent variable displays VD2, VD3, and VD4, and then executes both the variable hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance that takes over the hold notice performance in the variable display VD5. The 2b mode includes a mode in which the hold notice performance is executed in advance in the variable display VD1, and then executes both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in the variable display VD1.

[0231] In the example of Fig. 25, the 2c mode executes a light guide plate performance in advance in the variable display VD1, then executes both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in the variable display VD2, and while continuing the hold notice performance, executes both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in each of the subsequent variable displays VD2, VD3, and VD4, and then executes both the variable hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance that takes over the hold notice performance in the variable display VD5. The 2c mode includes a mode in which the light guide plate performance is executed in advance in the variable display VD1, and then executes both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance in the variable display VD1.

[0232] The third embodiment is an embodiment in which, during the specific performance period SP, either the hold notice performance or the light guide plate performance is executed at least until the end of the variable display VD2, and both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special pattern variable display after the end of the variable display VD2. The third embodiment includes the 3a embodiment and the 3b embodiment. The 3a embodiment is an embodiment in which, of the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance, only the hold notice performance is executed at least until the end of the variable display VD2, and both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special pattern variable display after the end of the variable display VD2. The 3b embodiment is an embodiment in which, of the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance, only the light guide plate performance is executed at least until the end of the variable display VD2, and both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed in one special pattern variable display after the end of the variable display VD2.

[0233] FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the selection rate of the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment selected by the execution mode selection means 226. The selection rate of each mode, which is the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment, is a value that differs depending on the judgment result of the specific reserved memory by the execution mode selection means 226. In this embodiment, the selection rate of each mode is set according to three conditions: when the judgment result of the specific reserved memory is other than the specific pattern change performance "battle reach" (judgment result J1), when the specific pattern change performance "battle reach" is a miss (judgment result J2), and when the specific pattern change performance "battle reach" is a big hit (judgment result J3). In another embodiment, the selection rate of each mode may be set according to two conditions: when the judgment result of the specific reserved memory is a miss in the specific pattern change performance "battle reach" (judgment result J2), and when the specific pattern change performance "battle reach" is a big hit (judgment result J3).

[0234] The selection rate of the 1a aspect is 40% for the judgment result J1, 30% for the judgment result J2, and 5% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the 1b aspect is 40% for the judgment result J1, 30% for the judgment result J2, and 5% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the first aspect, which combines the 1a aspect and the 1b aspect, is 80% for the judgment result J1, 80% for the judgment result J2, and 10% for the judgment result J3. In this embodiment, the 1a aspect and the 1b aspect have the same selection rate, but in other embodiments, the 1a aspect and the 1b aspect may have different selection rates.

[0235] The selection rate of the 2a aspect is 5% for the judgment result J1, 10% for the judgment result J2, and 10% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the 2b aspect is 5% for the judgment result J1, 10% for the judgment result J2, and 10% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the 2c aspect is 5% for the judgment result J1, 10% for the judgment result J2, and 10% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the 2nd aspect, which is the combination of the 2a aspect, the 2b aspect, and the 2c aspect, is 15% for the judgment result J1, 30% for the judgment result J2, and 30% for the judgment result J3. In this embodiment, the 2a aspect, the 2b aspect, and the 2c aspect each have the same selection rate, but in other embodiments, the 2a aspect, the 2b aspect, and the 2c aspect may each have a different selection rate.

[0236] The selection rate of the 3a aspect is 2.5% for the judgment result J1, 5% for the judgment result J2, and 30% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the 3b aspect is 2.5% for the judgment result J1, 5% for the judgment result J2, and 30% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the 3rd aspect, which is the combination of the 3a aspect and the 3b aspect, is 5% for the judgment result J1, 10% for the judgment result J2, and 60% for the judgment result J3. In this embodiment, the 3a aspect and the 3b aspect have the same selection rate, but in other embodiments, the 3a aspect and the 3b aspect may have different selection rates.

[0237] In the example of FIG. 26, in the case of a judgment result J3 that is a jackpot in a specific symbol variation effect "battle reach", the selection rate of the first mode is 10%, the selection rate of the second mode is 30%, and the selection rate of the third mode is 60%. Therefore, the second mode is an effect execution mode with a higher expectation of a jackpot than the first mode, and the third mode is an effect execution mode with an even higher expectation of a jackpot than the second mode. In addition, as shown in FIG. 25, the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode each include a mode that is common to the variable display VD1, and further, the first mode and the third mode may each include a mode that is common to the variable displays VD2 and VD3. Therefore, by making the player recognize that the variable display VD2 is the second mode, the player can have a higher expectation of a jackpot than in the first mode. On the other hand, even if the player is made to recognize that the variable display VD2 is not the second mode, the player can have an expectation that the variable display V2 to the variable display VD4 may be in the third mode, which has an even higher expectation than the second mode.

[0238] According to the first embodiment described above, even if the specific symbol-changing effect is the "battle reach", the winning expectation can be changed depending on whether the effect execution mode of the pre-reading effect in the specific effect period SP before the execution of the symbol-changing effect is the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode. This makes it possible to make the player have a sense of expectation that the progress of the pre-reading effect in the specific effect period SP will be more likely to be advantageous to the player. As a result, it is possible to further increase the interest in the game by the pre-reading effect.

[0239] B. Second embodiment 27 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the selection rate of the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment selected by the execution mode selection means 226 in the second embodiment. The pachinko game machine 10 of the second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the selection rates of the 1a mode and the 1b mode are different from each other.

[0240] The selection rate of the 1a mode in the second embodiment is 56% for the judgment result J1, 42% for the judgment result J2, and 3% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the 1b mode in the second embodiment is 24% for the judgment result J1, 18% for the judgment result J2, and 7% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the first mode, which combines the 1a mode and the 1b mode, is 80% for the judgment result J1, 80% for the judgment result J2, and 10% for the judgment result J3. Therefore, the 1a mode, which executes only the light guide plate performance as the pre-reading performance, is a performance execution mode with a higher expectation of a jackpot than the 1a mode, which executes only the hold notice performance as the pre-reading performance. Therefore, by making the player recognize the light guide plate performance in the variable display VD1, the player can have a higher expectation of a jackpot than the hold notice performance.

[0241] According to the second embodiment described above, even if the "battle reach" is the same specific symbol change effect, the winning expectation can be changed depending on whether the effect execution mode of the pre-reading effect in the specific effect period SP before the execution of the symbol change effect is the 1a mode, the 1b mode, the 2nd mode, or the 3rd mode. This makes it possible to make the player have a sense of expectation that the progress of the pre-reading effect in the specific effect period SP will be more likely to be advantageous to the player. As a result, it is possible to further increase the interest in the game by the pre-reading effect.

[0242] C. Third embodiment 28 is an explanatory diagram showing the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment selected by the execution mode selection means 226 in the third embodiment. The pachinko gaming machine 10 of the third embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that it includes a fourth mode in addition to the first mode, second mode, and third mode as the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment. The fourth mode, which is the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment, is a mode in which, during the specific performance period SP, only the light guide plate performance is executed out of the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance until the start of the variable display VD5, which is a specific special pattern variable display, and both the variable reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed while the variable display VD5 is being executed.

[0243] FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the selection rate of the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment selected by the execution mode selection means 226 in the third embodiment. The selection rate of each mode in the third embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, except that the selection rates of the 3b mode and the 4th mode are different. The selection rate of the 3b mode is 1.25% for the judgment result J1, 2.5% for the judgment result J2, and 15% for the judgment result J3. The selection rate of the 4th mode is 1.25% for the judgment result J1, 2.5% for the judgment result J2, and 15% for the judgment result J3.

[0244] In the example of FIG. 29, in the case of a judgment result J3 that is a jackpot in a specific pattern change performance "battle reach", the selection rate of the first mode is 10%, the selection rate of the second mode is 30%, the selection rate of the third mode is 45%, and the selection rate of the fourth mode is 15%. Therefore, the second mode is a performance execution mode with a higher expectation of a jackpot than the first mode, and the modes including the third mode and the fourth mode are performance execution modes with an even higher expectation of a jackpot than the second mode. In addition, as shown in FIG. 28, the first mode, the second mode, the third mode, and the fourth mode each include a mode that is common to the variable display VD1, and further, the third mode includes a mode that is common to the first mode in the variable displays VD2 and VD3, and the fourth mode may include a mode that is common to the first mode in the variable displays VD2, VD3, and VD4. Therefore, by making the player recognize that the variable display VD2 is the second mode, the player can have a higher expectation of a jackpot than the first mode. On the other hand, even if the player is made to recognize that the variable display VD2 is not the second mode, the player can have a expectation that the variable display V2 to VD4 may be in the third mode, which has an even higher expectation than the second mode. Furthermore, even if the player is made to recognize that the variable display VD4 is not the third mode and it reaches the variable display VD5, the player can have a expectation that the variable display VD4 is in the fourth mode, which has a higher expectation than the first mode.

[0245] According to the third embodiment described above, even if the "battle reach" is the same specific symbol change effect, the winning expectation can be changed depending on whether the effect execution mode of the pre-reading effect in the specific effect period SP before the execution of the symbol change effect is the first mode, the second mode, the third mode, or the fourth mode. This makes it possible to make the player have a sense of expectation that the progress of the pre-reading effect in the specific effect period SP will be more likely to be advantageous to the player. As a result, it is possible to further increase the interest in the game by the pre-reading effect.

[0246] D. 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.

[0247] The selection rate for selecting the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment can be appropriately set according to the specifications of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The selection rate for the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment may be a different value depending on whether the result of the pre-reading judgment is a big win or not, or may be a different value depending on whether the result of the pre-reading judgment is a big win accompanied by a time-saving game or not, or may be a different value depending on whether the result of the pre-reading judgment is a time-saving game or not.

[0248] The specific symbol change performance for which the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment is selected may be one type of symbol change performance or multiple types of symbol change performance. When there are multiple types of specific symbol change performance, the selection rate may be changed according to the type of the specific symbol change performance.

[0249] The mode selected as the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment may include a plurality of reserved advance notice performances with different display modes (for example, at least one mode such as color, size, shape, etc.), and the winning expectation degree may be changed according to the display mode. The mode selected as the performance execution mode of the pre-reading judgment may include a plurality of light guide plate performances with different display modes (for example, at least one mode such as color, size, shape, etc.), and the winning expectation degree may be changed according to the display mode. [Explanation of symbols]

[0250] 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...Retention storage means 214...Look-ahead determination means 216...Means of determining whether or not 219...Command output means 220...Sub-integrated control device 222...Reserved pattern display means 224...Pattern change production means 226... execution mode selection means 227…Pre-order notice production method 228...Light guide plate production 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 500,500N,500S…Production screen 501...Performance pattern display area 501a…Left side production design 501b...Central performance design 501c…Right side design 501s…Performance pattern display area 502...Pending pattern during change 503~506…Reserved patterns 510: Video display area 600...Light guide plate production device 610... Production image 620...Light guide plate 622…Light guide plate front 624...Back side of light guide plate 626…Light guide plate end face 630…Light source

Claims

[Claim 1] A reserve storage means for retaining and storing information acquired based on the ball entering the starting hole; A hold display means for displaying a hold to identify the number of the hold memories; A means for determining whether or not a person is a winner based on the information; a pattern display means for displaying a pattern in a variable manner and then displaying a predetermined pattern to notify the result of the judgment by the winning / losing judgment means; A performance display means for performing a performance display corresponding to the pattern variation display; A pre-reading and judging means for pre-reading and judging the information before the correctness / incorrectness judging means; A hold notice performance means for performing a hold notice performance that changes the display mode of the hold display as a pre-reading performance performed based on the judgment result by the pre-reading judgment means; a light guide plate effecting means for performing a light guide plate effect by emitting light from a front surface of a light guide plate provided in a position forward of and overlapping with a display area of ​​the effect display; A pinball game machine comprising: Further, a change pending display means is provided for performing a change pending display corresponding to the pattern change display being executed in accordance with the hold display, The hold notice performance includes a performance that changes the display mode of the changing hold display, The execution mode of the pre-reading performance is as follows: A first mode in which either one of the reserved notice performance and the light guide plate performance is executed during a specific performance period from when the pre-reading judgment is performed to when a specific pattern change display is performed by the reserved memory in which the pre-reading judgment is performed; A second mode in which, during the specific performance period, by the end of the next pattern change display that starts after the pre-reading judgment is performed, both the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance are executed; During the specific performance period, only the light guide plate performance is executed out of the hold notice performance and the light guide plate performance until the start of the specific pattern change display, and the hold notice performance is executed by the change-in-progress hold display while the specific pattern change display is being executed; and Including, a selection rate for selecting each of the first aspect, the second aspect, and the third aspect is a value that varies depending on a result of the determination of the information by the pre-reading determination means; A pinball game machine characterized by:

Images