Gaming Machines

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of improving the amusement of players.SOLUTION: A Pachinko game machine is provided, capable of performing a step presentation that progresses over a plurality of presentation steps. In the step presentation, progress is made from a start step to a final step via one or a plurality of middle steps. Further, the Pachinko game machine can perform a progress specifying presentation in which a progress degree of the presentation step in the step presentation can be specified during the performance of the step presentation. The progress specifying presentation is performed in a different presentation mode according to a present presentation step. When the step presentation progresses to the final step, the progress specifying presentation can be performed in a presentation mode suggesting that giving of a predetermined privilege is definitely determined.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, in pachinko gaming machines, which are a type of gaming machine, various effects have been executed to enhance the interest of players. As such effects, a method of increasing the interest of players by gradually progressing the content of the effect is known (for example, Patent Document 1). In the pachinko gaming machine of Patent Document 1, an information change effect is executed to gradually change the display mode of game information indicating a special game as a step-by-step effect to gradually progress the content of the effect, thereby enhancing the interest of players. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-88697 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in pachinko gaming machines that execute staged presentations in which the presentation content progresses in stages, it is desirable to further increase the interest of players by devising ways of executing the presentations.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine which can enhance the interest of players. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A gaming machine that solves the above problem is capable of executing a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a winning lottery, and when a winning lottery is won, a winning display result is displayed in the variable game, and the gaming machine is capable of executing various effects in the variable game or in relation to the result of the variable game, and is equipped with an effect execution means that executes the effects, and an effect control means that controls the effect execution means, and the effects include stage effects that can progress across a plurality of effect stages, and in the stage effects, it is possible to progress from a start stage to a final stage via a plurality of intermediate stages, and the intermediate stages that are passed through when progressing from the start stage to the final stage include a specific intermediate stage and a non-specific intermediate stage, and when the specific intermediate stage is executed with one effect content, the non-specific intermediate stage is executed with any of the effect contents out of the multiple effect contents, and the effect execution means, during execution of the stage effects, checks the progress of the effect stages in the stage effects. Suggest A specific progress performance can be executed, and the specific progress performance is executed in a different performance mode depending on the current performance stage, and when the stage performance progresses to the final stage, it can be executed in a performance mode that suggests that a predetermined benefit has been awarded, and when the benefit is not awarded, the stage performance does not progress to the final stage. When the stage performance progresses to the final stage without the player being selected, the performance mode of the specific progress performance is a performance mode in which the content of the benefit that has been confirmed to be given can be recognized. The gist of the present invention is as follows.

[0007] The gaming machine that solves the above problem is capable of executing a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a winning lottery, and when a winning lottery is won, a winning display result is displayed in the variable game, and in the gaming machine that can execute various effects in the variable game or in relation to the result of the variable game, the gaming machine is equipped with an effect execution means that executes the effects, and an effect control means that controls the effect execution means, and the effect execution means includes a display means that displays an image, and an audio output means that outputs audio, and the effects include a stage effect that can progress across a plurality of effect stages, and a display means that displays the progress of the effect stages in the stage effect. Suggest A specific sound effect that outputs a specific sound that can recognize the content of the progress specific effect and the stage effect; Includes:The specific progress performance and the specific sound performance are executed during the execution of the stage performance, the stage performance and the specific progress performance are executed by the display means of the performance execution means, the specific sound performance is executed by the sound output means, the stage performance can progress from a start stage to a final stage via one or more intermediate stages, the intermediate stages passed through when progressing from the start stage to the final stage include a specific intermediate stage, the specific progress performance can identify at least the current performance stage by displaying an element image in a different manner depending on the current performance stage, the specific progress performance can be executed in a performance manner suggesting that the grant of a predetermined benefit has been confirmed when the stage performance has progressed to the final stage, and when the benefit is not granted, the stage performance does not progress to the final stage. When the stage performance progresses to the final stage without the player being selected, the performance mode of the specific progress performance is a performance mode in which the content of the benefit that has been confirmed to be given can be recognized. The gist of the present invention is as follows. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, the interest of the player can be increased. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine. [Diagram 3] 1A is an explanatory diagram showing the presentation contents of each presentation stage in the first stage of presentation, and FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram showing the presentation contents of each presentation stage in the second stage of presentation. [Figure 4] 13(a) to (e) are explanatory diagrams showing the manner in which a specific progress presentation is executed. [Diagram 5] 11 is a flowchart showing a performance content determination process. [Figure 6] 11 is a timing chart showing a specific example of the flow of a performance when a staged performance is executed. [Figure 7] 11 is a timing chart showing a specific example of the flow of a performance when a staged performance is executed. [Figure 8]A timing chart showing a specific example of the flow of presentation when a special super reach is executed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] An embodiment embodied in a pachinko gaming machine will be described below. In the following description, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (back) indicate the respective directions as seen by a player.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 10 as a gaming machine includes a launch handle HD operated by a player when launching a gaming ball. The pachinko gaming machine 10 also includes a speaker Sp as an audio output means for outputting sound. The speaker Sp can execute an effect (hereinafter, referred to as an audio effect) by outputting sound such as music or sound effects. That is, in this embodiment, the speaker Sp corresponds to an effect execution means for executing an effect. The pachinko gaming machine 10 also includes a decorative lamp La for executing a light-emitting effect using a light-emitting body (not shown). The decorative lamp La can execute a light-emitting effect by turning on, blinking, and turning off a light-emitting body (not shown). That is, in this embodiment, the decorative lamp La corresponds to an effect execution means for executing an effect.

[0012] The pachinko game machine 10 includes a game board YB. A game area YBa having a substantially circular shape in a front view is defined on the front side of the game board YB. In this embodiment, a game ball launched by operating a launch handle HD reaches the game area YBa.

[0013] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an information display device 11. For example, the information display device 11 is disposed at a position on the game board YB that is visible to a player. The information display device 11 notifies various information indicating the control state of the pachinko gaming machine 10.

[0014] The information display device 11 includes a first special symbol display unit 11a. The first special symbol display unit 11a can execute a first special symbol change game in which a predetermined symbol is displayed variably and the first special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. In the following description, the first special symbol change game is abbreviated to "first special game". The information display device 11 includes a second special symbol display unit 11b. The second special symbol display unit 11b can execute a second special symbol change game in which a predetermined symbol is displayed variably and the second special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. In the following description, the second special symbol change game is abbreviated to "second special game". In addition, the first special game and the second special game are collectively referred to as "special game". The special symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of a jackpot determination (jackpot lottery) described later.

[0015] In this specification, the term "variable display" means a state in which the type of the displayed pattern changes over time. In this specification, the term "determined stop display" means a state in which the pattern is definitively displayed and the type of the displayed pattern does not change. In this embodiment, the special patterns include at least a jackpot pattern as a jackpot display result and a miss pattern as a miss display result. In this embodiment, if a jackpot is determined in the jackpot determination, a jackpot pattern is displayed in the special game, while if a miss is determined in the jackpot determination, a miss pattern is displayed in the special game. In this manner, in this embodiment, a special game can be executed based on the result of the jackpot determination. Therefore, if a jackpot pattern is displayed in the special game, a player can recognize a jackpot, and if a miss pattern is displayed in the special game, a player can recognize a miss.

[0016] In this embodiment, the first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously. In this embodiment, the second special game is executed in priority to the first special game. In this embodiment, if a jackpot is determined in the jackpot determination, the jackpot symbol is displayed in a fixed stop in the special game, and the jackpot game is awarded after the special game ends. As will be described in detail later, the jackpot game is an extremely advantageous state for the player because the player can win a large number of prize balls and other benefits.

[0017] The information display device 11 includes a first special reservation display section 11c. The first special reservation display section 11c displays information that allows the user to recognize the number of first special games whose execution has been reserved because the reservation conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following description, the number of reserved first special games is indicated as the "first special reservation number". The information display device 11 includes a second special reservation display section 11d. The second special reservation display section 11d displays information that allows the user to recognize the number of second special games whose execution has been reserved because the reservation conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following description, the number of reserved second special games is indicated as the "second special reservation number". For example, the maximum values ​​of the first special reservation number and the second special reservation number are "4". The reservation conditions for the special game can also be understood as conditions for starting the special game (so-called start conditions).

[0018] The information display device 11 includes a normal symbol display unit 11e. The normal symbol display unit 11e can execute a normal symbol variation game in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and a normal symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. The normal symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of a normal win judgment (normal win lottery) described later. In the following description, the normal symbol variation game is abbreviated to "normal game". The normal symbols in this embodiment include at least a normal win symbol and a normal loss symbol. When a normal win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the normal game, the player can recognize a normal win. When a normal loss symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the normal game, the player can recognize a normal loss.

[0019] In this embodiment, when a normal win is determined in the normal win determination, the normal win symbol is displayed in a fixed stop in the normal game, and after the normal game ends, a normal win game is awarded. As will be described in detail later, the normal win game is advantageous to the player because it makes it easier for the player to establish the reservation conditions for the special game.

[0020] The information display device 11 is equipped with a regular hold display section 11f. The regular hold display section 11f displays information that allows the user to recognize the number of regular games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following explanation, the number of regular games that are on hold will be referred to as the "regular hold number." For example, the maximum regular hold number is 4.

[0021] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a performance display device 12 as a performance execution means for executing a performance. The performance display device 12 is, for example, a liquid crystal display type display device. The performance display device 12 may be an organic EL display type display device, or a display device configured to include a projector and a screen. The performance display device 12 is equipped with an image display unit GH on which an image is displayed. That is, in this embodiment, the performance display device 12 functions as a display means for displaying an image. The performance display device 12 is capable of executing a performance (hereinafter referred to as a display performance) that displays an image (picture) that imitates a predetermined character or letter as one of the performances.

[0022] The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a first start port 13 as a winning port that opens in the game area YBa below the performance display device 12 on the game board YB. The first start port 13 is always open so that a game ball can enter the winning port. In the following description, the game ball entering the winning port may be referred to as "winning". The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a first start sensor SE1 that detects the game ball that has entered the first start port 13 (shown in FIG. 2). For example, the first start sensor SE1 is provided in a passage (not shown) through which the game ball that has entered the first start port 13 passes. In this embodiment, when the game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, the reservation condition of the first special game may be established and the payout condition of the prize ball is established.

[0023] The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a second start hole 14 as a winning hole that opens into the game area YBa at the lower right of the performance display device 12 on the game board YB. The pachinko game machine 10 is also provided with a first variable member 15 on the game board YB that can be operated between an allowable state (open state) and a restricted state (closed state). The allowable state is a state in which a game ball can be inserted into the second start hole 14 or it is easy to insert the ball. The restricted state is a state in which a game ball cannot be inserted into the second start hole 14 or it is difficult to insert the ball. The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a first actuator A1 that operates the first variable member 15 (shown in FIG. 2). The first variable member 15 is operated to the allowable state in a normal winning game.

[0024] The pachinko gaming machine 10 also includes a second start sensor SE2 that detects a gaming ball that has entered the second start hole 14 (shown in FIG. 2). For example, the second start sensor SE2 is provided in a passage (not shown) through which the gaming ball that has entered the second start hole 14 passes. In this embodiment, when a gaming ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, a reservation condition for the second special game may be established, and a payout condition for prize balls is also established.

[0025] The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a big prize opening 16 that opens into the game area YBa at the lower left of the second start opening 14 on the game board YB. The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a second variable member 17 that can be operated between an allowable state (open state) and a restricted state (closed state) on the game board YB. The second variable member 17 is a so-called big prize opening door. The allowable state is a state in which a game ball can be inserted into the big prize opening 16 or it is easy to insert the ball. The restricted state is a state in which a game ball cannot be inserted into the big prize opening 16 or it is difficult to insert the ball. The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a second actuator A2 that operates the second variable member 17 (shown in FIG. 2). The second variable member 17 is operated to the allowable state during a big win game.

[0026] The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a count sensor SE3 that detects game balls that enter the big prize opening 16 (shown in FIG. 2). For example, the count sensor SE3 is provided in a passage (not shown) through which game balls that enter the big prize opening 16 pass. In this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the count sensor SE3, a payout condition for a prize ball is established.

[0027] The pachinko game machine 10 has a gate 18 through which a game ball can pass (enter) on the game board YB to the right of the performance display device 12. The gate 18 has a gate sensor SE4 that detects the game ball passing through the gate 18 (shown in FIG. 2). In this embodiment, when the game ball is detected by the gate sensor SE4, a reserve condition for the normal game may be established.

[0028] Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a low probability state and a high probability state as gaming states with different jackpot probabilities. The jackpot probability is the probability of being determined as a jackpot in a jackpot judgment. The high probability state is a gaming state in which the jackpot probability is higher than in the low probability state. In the high probability state, the probability of being determined as a jackpot in a jackpot judgment is higher than in the low probability state, making it a gaming state that is advantageous for the player. The high probability state is what is known as a "probability-varying state (high probability state)."

[0029] The pachinko game machine 10 has a low base state and a high base state as game states in which the ratio of the number of winning balls to the number of game balls shot is different. The high base state of this embodiment is a game state in which the probability of the game ball entering the second starting hole 14 is higher than in the low base state. The high base state of this embodiment is a game state (easy ball entry state) that is advantageous for the player because the probability of the game ball entering the second starting hole 14 is higher and it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 14. That is, the high base state in this embodiment is a so-called "electric support state", and the low base state is a so-called "non-electric support state".

[0030] For example, the high base state can be realized by performing one of the three controls described below, which are arbitrarily selected, or by performing a combination of the above controls. The first control is a normal symbol variation time shortening control that shortens the variation time of the normal game compared to that in the low base state. The second control is a normal symbol probability variation control that varies the probability (normal win probability) of a normal symbol being determined as a normal win in a hit determination to a higher probability than that in the low base state. The third control is an opening time extension control that lengthens the total opening time of the first variable member 15 in one normal win game compared to that in the low base state. As the opening time extension control, at least one of the following may be performed: a control that increases the number of openings of the first variable member 15 in one normal win game compared to that in the low base state, and a control that lengthens the opening time of the first variable member 15 in one normal win game compared to that in the low base state. In this embodiment, the normal win probability in the low base state is set to 0. Therefore, the first variable member 15 is not operated to the permissive state in the low base state.

[0031] In addition, in this embodiment, the high base state is realized by combining the fourth control described below. The fourth control is a special symbol fluctuation time shortening control that shortens the fluctuation time (for example, average fluctuation time) of the special game compared to the low base state. Therefore, in this embodiment, the low base state corresponds to a game state in which the average fluctuation time of the special game is longer than that in the high base state. In this embodiment, the high base state is a so-called "fluctuation time shortening state (time shortening state)" for the special symbol. In contrast, the low base state is a so-called "non-fluctuation time shortening state (non-time shortening state)" for the special symbol.

[0032] In the following description, a game state that is a low probability state and a low base state may be referred to as a "low probability low base state", and a game state that is a high probability state and a low base state may be referred to as a "high probability low base state". Also, a game state that is a low probability state and a high base state may be referred to as a "low probability high base state", and a game state that is a high probability state and a high base state may be referred to as a "high probability high base state". In this embodiment, while there are cases where the game state is controlled to a low probability low base state, a low probability high base state, and a high probability high base state, there is no case where the game state is controlled to a high probability low base state. In the following description, the low probability low base state may be referred to as a "normal game state", and the game states of the low probability high base state and the high probability high base state may be collectively referred to as a "favorable game state".

[0033] Next, a big win in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment is provided with a plurality of types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. The plurality of types of jackpot symbols each have a predetermined type of jackpot.

[0034] In the case of a jackpot, after a jackpot pattern is derived in a special game, a type of jackpot game corresponding to the jackpot pattern is awarded. In the jackpot game, a predetermined performance is first performed for a predetermined opening time. In this embodiment, as the predetermined performance, for example, an opening performance that notifies the start of the jackpot game is performed. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game is performed in which the large prize winning hole 16 is opened. The round game is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. One round game is ended when a first ending condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enters the ball or a second ending condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed is met. In the round game, a round performance is performed. Then, in the jackpot game, when the final round game is ended, a predetermined performance is performed for a predetermined ending time. In this embodiment, as the predetermined performance, for example, an ending performance that notifies the end of the jackpot game is performed. The jackpot game is ended with the ending time having elapsed.

[0035] In addition, the jackpot patterns in this embodiment include specific jackpot patterns that confer a high probability state and a high base state from the end of a jackpot game until the next jackpot lottery is won, and non-specific jackpot patterns that do not confer a high probability state after the end of a jackpot game, but confer a high base state up to a predetermined maximum number of special games.

[0036] Next, the effect symbol variation game executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. In this embodiment, the performance display device 12 is capable of executing a performance pattern change game in which performance patterns are variably displayed in multiple rows and a final combination of performance patterns is derived. In the following explanation, the performance pattern change game is abbreviated to "performance game." Performance patterns are patterns (decorative patterns) decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are intended to diversify the display performance. In this embodiment, the performance game is performed by variably displaying (scrolling) the first, second, and third pattern rows in a predetermined direction, respectively.

[0037] The effect game is started with the start of the special game and is ended with the end of the special game. Specifically, in the effect game, the effect symbols are temporarily displayed in a stopped state in each of the first to third symbol rows (hereinafter, referred to as a "temporary stop display"), and then the effect symbols temporarily displayed in each symbol row are displayed in a low probability stop state, thereby deriving a combination of effect symbols. In the effect game, a combination of effect symbols according to the special symbols derived in the special game is derived. When a big win symbol (a big win display result) is derived in the special game, a big win symbol combination (a big win display result) by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game as well. For example, the big win symbol combination by the effect symbols is a symbol combination in which the effect symbols in all columns are the same. In addition, when a losing symbol (a losing display result) is derived in the special game, a losing symbol combination (a losing display result) by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game as well. For example, a losing combination of effect symbols is a combination in which the effect symbols in at least some columns are different from the effect symbols in the other columns. In the following description, the special game and the effect game may be collectively referred to as a "variable game."

[0038] In addition, in the presentation game of this embodiment, a reach presentation can be executed. The reach presentation of this embodiment is a presentation performed in a state where the same presentation pattern is temporarily stopped and displayed in specific columns (the first and second columns in this embodiment) among all the symbol columns in the presentation game. In the following explanation, a combination of presentation patterns in which the same presentation pattern is temporarily stopped and displayed in specific columns among all the symbol columns may be referred to as a "reach pattern combination." The reach presentation of this embodiment includes a normal reach presentation and a super reach presentation that is an extension of the presentation content of the normal reach presentation. The types of reach presentation in this embodiment will be described in detail later.

[0039] Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. As shown in Fig. 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a main control board 30 on the back side (rear) of the game board YB. The main control board 30 performs various processes and outputs control signals (control commands) according to the results of the processes. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is also provided with a sub-control board 31 on the back side (rear) of the game board YB. The sub-control board 31 executes a predetermined process based on the control signal input from the main control board 30.

[0040] First, the main control board 30 will be described in detail. The main control board 30 includes a main control CPU 30a, a main control ROM 30b, and a main control RAM 30c. The main control CPU 30a executes a main control program to perform various processes.

[0041] The main control ROM 30b stores a main control program, a judgment value used in a predetermined lottery, etc. The main control ROM 30b also stores a plurality of types of fluctuation patterns. The fluctuation pattern is information that can specify a fluctuation time from the start of a special game to the end of the special game.

[0042] The variation patterns of this embodiment include a jackpot variation pattern that is determined when a jackpot is determined in the jackpot determination, and a miss variation pattern that is determined when a jackpot is not determined in the jackpot determination. In the jackpot variation pattern, the performance content of the performance game is determined to be a performance content that ultimately leads to a jackpot symbol combination. In the miss variation pattern, the performance content of the performance game is determined to be a performance content that ultimately leads to a miss symbol combination without a reach performance or after a reach performance. In addition, the variation pattern of this embodiment is information that can specify a part or all of the performance to be executed during the execution of the performance game.

[0043] The main control RAM 30c is configured to be capable of storing various information that is rewritten during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The information stored in the main control RAM 30c is, for example, a flag, a counter, and a timer. The main control board 30 is also configured to be capable of generating random numbers. For example, the random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

[0044] The main control CPU30a is connected to the first start sensor SE1, the second start sensor SE2, the count sensor SE3, and the gate sensor SE4. The main control CPU30a is configured to be able to input a detection signal output by each sensor when it detects a game ball. The main control CPU30a is connected to the information display device 11 (first special symbol display section 11a, second special symbol display section 11b, first special hold display section 11c, second special hold display section 11d, normal symbol display section 11e, normal hold display section 11f). The main control CPU30a is configured to be able to control the display contents of the information display device 11. The main control CPU30a is connected to the first actuator A1 and the second actuator A2. The main control CPU30a is configured to be able to control the operation of each actuator.

[0045] Next, the sub-control board 31 will be described. The sub-control board 31 and the main control board 30 are connected to each other. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is configured so that a control signal can be output in one direction from the main control board 30 to the sub-control board 31.

[0046] The sub-control board 31 includes a sub-control CPU 31a, a sub-control ROM 31b, and a sub-control RAM 31c. The sub-control CPU 31a executes a sub-control program to perform various processes (e.g., processes related to performance). The sub-control ROM 31b stores the sub-control program and a judgment value used in a lottery. The sub-control ROM 31b stores display performance data related to the display performance, light emission performance data related to the light emission performance, and audio performance data related to the audio performance. In this embodiment, the sub-control ROM 31b corresponds to a storage means for storing various information.

[0047] The sub-control RAM 31c is configured to be capable of storing various information that is appropriately rewritten during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The information stored in the sub-control RAM 31c is, for example, a flag, a counter, and a timer. The sub-control board 31 is also configured to be capable of generating random numbers. The random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

[0048] In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU31a functions as a performance control means for controlling the performance execution means. The sub-control CPU31a and the performance display device 12 are connected. The sub-control CPU31a is configured to be able to control the display contents of the performance display device 12. Specifically, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU31a can control the performance display device 12 to display various images based on the display performance data stored in the sub-control ROM 31b. The sub-control CPU31a and the decorative lamp La are connected. The sub-control CPU31a is configured to be able to control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp La. The sub-control CPU31a and the speaker Sp are connected. The sub-control CPU31a is configured to be able to control the output mode of the sound by the speaker Sp.

[0049] Next, various types of processing (control) executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. The main control CPU 30a of the main control board 30 executes various processes such as special symbol input processing and special symbol start processing based on the main control program. The main control CPU 30a executes various processes such as special symbol input processing and special symbol start processing at a predetermined control period (e.g., 4 ms).

[0050] First, the special symbol input process will be described. In the special symbol input process, the main control CPU30a judges whether a game ball has entered the first start hole 13. At this time, the main control CPU30a judges that a game ball has entered the first start hole 13 by inputting a detection signal from the first start sensor SE1. When a game ball has entered the first start hole 13, the main control CPU30a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM30c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). When the first special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU30a adds 1 to the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM30c to update it. At this time, the main control CPU30a controls the information display device 11 to display the updated first special reserved number. Thus, in this embodiment, when the first special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the reservation condition of the first special game is established by the game ball entering the first start hole 13.

[0051] Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires random numbers generated in the main control board 30, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 30c. For example, the random numbers are jackpot random numbers, jackpot symbol random numbers, and variation pattern random numbers. At this time, the main control CPU 30a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the first special game in the main control RAM 30c, the execution of the first special game can be suspended until the execution condition of the first special game is established. The random number information may be the acquired random numbers themselves, or may be information obtained by processing the random numbers using a predetermined method.

[0052] When a game ball has not entered the first start hole 13, when the number of first special reserved balls is not less than the upper limit number, and when the random number information for the first special game is stored in the main control RAM 30c, the main control CPU 30a judges whether a game ball has entered the second start hole 14. At this time, the main control CPU 30a judges that a game ball has entered the second start hole 14 by inputting a detection signal from the second start sensor SE2. When a game ball has not entered the second start hole 14, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, when a game ball has entered the second start hole 14, the main control CPU 30a judges whether the number of second special reserved balls stored in the main control RAM 30c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). When the number of second special reserved balls is not less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the second special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 30a updates the second special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 30c by adding 1. At this time, the main control CPU 30a controls the information display device 11 to display the updated second special reserved number. Thus, in this embodiment, if the second special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the reservation condition for the second special game is established by a game ball entering the second start hole 14.

[0053] Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires random numbers generated in the main control board 30, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 30c. At this time, the main control CPU 30a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the second special game, and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the second special game in the main control RAM 30c, it is possible to suspend the execution of the second special game until the execution condition of the second special game is satisfied. After that, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol input process.

[0054] Next, the special symbol start process will be described. First, the main control CPU 30a judges whether the execution condition of the special game is satisfied. In this judgment, the main control CPU 30a judges that the execution condition is satisfied when neither a jackpot game nor a special game is being played, while it judges that the execution condition is not satisfied when a jackpot game or a special game is being played. If the execution condition is not satisfied, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol start process.

[0055] On the other hand, when the execution condition is satisfied, the main control CPU30a acquires the second special reserved number stored in the main control RAM30c and judges whether the acquired second special reserved number is greater than 0 (zero). When the second special reserved number is greater than 0, the main control CPU30a starts the second special game. On the other hand, when the second special reserved number is 0, the main control CPU30a acquires the first special reserved number and judges whether the acquired first special reserved number is greater than 0. When the first special reserved number is greater than 0, the main control CPU30a starts the first special game. As a result, the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment does not execute the first special game and the second special game simultaneously, and executes the second special game preferentially.

[0056] On the other hand, when the first special reserved number is 0, the main control CPU 30a judges whether to output information (hereinafter, referred to as a standby state command) capable of identifying that the game is in a standby state to the sub-control board 31. In this embodiment, the standby state is a state in which neither a jackpot game nor a special game is being played, and neither the first special game nor the second special game is reserved. At this time, when the output information is not stored in the main control RAM 30c, the main control CPU 30a judges to output a standby state command, whereas when the output information is not stored, the main control CPU 30a judges not to output a standby state command. In this embodiment, the output information is information capable of identifying that the standby state command has been output. The output information is stored in the main control RAM 30c when the standby state command is generated, and is erased (cleared) from the main control RAM 30c when the standby state ends.

[0057] When outputting a standby state command, the main control CPU 30a generates a standby state command and sets it in the output buffer, and stores the output information in the main control RAM 30c. In this embodiment, the information (control command) set in the output buffer is output to the sub-control board 31 in a predetermined output process. On the other hand, when not outputting a standby state command, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol start process without generating a standby state command.

[0058] When starting the second special game, the main control CPU30a subtracts 1 from the second special reserved number to update it, and controls the information display device 11 to display the subtracted second special reserved number. At this time, if the output information is stored in the main control RAM30c, the main control CPU30a erases the output information.

[0059] Next, the main control CPU30a acquires the random number information for the second special game that was stored first from the main control RAM30c. Then, the main control CPU30a performs a jackpot determination as to whether or not a jackpot has occurred, using the value of the jackpot random number specified from the acquired random number information. The jackpot determination corresponds to a jackpot lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot has occurred. For example, the jackpot determination may be performed based on whether or not the value of the random number coincides with a jackpot determination value. Also, for example, the jackpot determination may be performed based on whether or not the value obtained by adding the value of the random number to the jackpot determination value exceeds a predetermined value. At this time, the main control CPU30a performs a jackpot determination based on a jackpot determination value that differs depending on the current probability state.

[0060] When the jackpot is determined in the jackpot determination, the main control CPU30a performs a jackpot variation process. In the jackpot variation process, the main control CPU30a determines a special jackpot pattern based on the value of the jackpot pattern random number specified from the acquired random number information. This determined jackpot pattern becomes the final stop pattern derived in the special game. In addition, when the main control CPU30a determines a special jackpot pattern, it determines a jackpot variation pattern from among a plurality of types of jackpot variation patterns by performing a variation pattern determination lottery. On the other hand, when the jackpot is not determined in the jackpot determination, the main control CPU30a performs a loss variation process. In the loss variation process, the main control CPU30a determines a loss pattern for the special pattern. This determined loss pattern becomes the final stop pattern derived in the special game. In addition, when the main control CPU30a determines a losing special symbol, it determines a losing variation pattern from among a plurality of types of losing variation patterns by performing a variation pattern determination lottery.

[0061] In addition, when starting the first special game, the main control CPU30a performs the same control as the control for the second special game described above on the first special game. That is, the main control CPU30a subtracts the first special reserved number, erases the output information, judges the jackpot, and performs the jackpot variation process or the miss variation process based on the result of the jackpot judgment. After that, the main control CPU30a ends the special symbol start process.

[0062] Then, when the special symbol start process is completed, the main control CPU30a executes a special game by performing a process other than the special symbol start process. Specifically, the main control CPU30a controls the display content of the information display device 11 so as to start the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The main control CPU30a also sets information (hereinafter referred to as a special symbol designation command) that designates the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process in the output buffer. The main control CPU30a also sets information (hereinafter referred to as a variation pattern designation command) that designates the variation pattern and instructs the start of the performance game in the output buffer. The main control CPU30a also measures the variation time determined for the variation pattern determined in the special symbol start process. The main control CPU30a then controls the information display device 11 so that the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process is derived after the variation time determined for the variation pattern has elapsed. In addition, when the change time set in the change pattern determined in the special pattern start process has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a sets information for deriving a combination of performance patterns (hereinafter referred to as an all pattern stop command) in the output buffer.

[0063] Next, the big win process performed by the main control CPU 30a will be described. In the jackpot process, the main control CPU 30a specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (i.e., the type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start process. After the jackpot special game ends, the main control CPU 30a starts control to award the specified jackpot game and outputs predetermined control information.

[0064] When the special game of the big win is over, the main control CPU30a starts measuring the opening time and generates a command (hereinafter, referred to as an opening command) for instructing the execution of the opening performance and sets it in the output buffer. When the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU30a performs a process for executing a round game. Specifically, the main control CPU30a controls the second actuator A2 so that the big prize opening 16 is opened in the round game. After starting the round game, the main control CPU30a ends the round game by closing the big prize opening 16 when the first end condition or the second end condition is established. The main control CPU30a repeats such a process for executing the round game until the round game is ended up to the upper limit number of times set for the big win game. Moreover, the main control CPU30a generates a command (hereinafter, referred to as a round command) for instructing the execution of the round performance every time the round game is started and sets it in the output buffer. Then, when the final round of play is over, the main control CPU 30a generates a command to instruct the execution of an ending performance (hereinafter, referred to as an ending command) and sets it in the output buffer. When the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a ends the big win game.

[0065] Next, the processing related to the game state performed by the main control CPU 30a will be described. When starting a jackpot game, the main control CPU30a controls the game state to a low probability low base state. Therefore, in this embodiment, during a jackpot game, the game state is a low probability low base state. Also, when ending a jackpot game, the main control CPU30a controls the game state to a game state according to the type of jackpot. For example, when ending a jackpot game based on a specific jackpot, the main control CPU30a controls the game state to a high probability high base state. In this case, the main control CPU30a controls the game state to a high probability high base state until the next jackpot game is started. On the other hand, when ending a jackpot game based on a non-specific jackpot, the main control CPU30a controls the game state to a low probability high base state. At this time, the main control CPU30a controls the game state to a high base state with a set upper limit number of times. Then, after controlling the game state to the high base state with the upper limit number of times, when the special game of the upper limit number of times ends without being determined as a jackpot in the jackpot determination, the main control CPU 30a controls the game state to the low base state.

[0066] When controlling to a low probability state, the main control CPU 30a sets a value that can specify that the state is to be controlled to a low probability state to the probability state flag stored in the main control RAM 30c, generates a low probability command that can specify that the state is to be controlled to a low probability state, and sets it in the output buffer. Similarly, when controlling to a high probability state, the main control CPU 30a sets a value that can specify that the state is to be controlled to a high probability state to the probability state flag stored in the main control RAM 30c, generates a high probability command that can specify that the state is to be controlled to a high probability state, and sets it in the output buffer. Also, when controlling to a low base state, the main control CPU 30a sets a value that can specify that the state is to be controlled to a low base state to the base state flag stored in the main control RAM 30c, generates a low base command that can specify that the state is to be controlled to a low base state, and sets it in the output buffer. Similarly, when controlling to a high base state, the main control CPU 30a sets a value that can specify that the state is to be controlled to a high base state to the base state flag stored in the main control RAM 30c, generates a high base command that can specify that the state is to be controlled to a high base state, and sets it in the output buffer.

[0067] Furthermore, when the main control CPU 30a awards a high base state with a set upper limit number of times, the main control CPU 30a stores the number of times equivalent to the upper limit number of times in the main control RAM 30c as the remaining number of times of the special game that awards the high base state. Then, the main control CPU 30a subtracts 1 from the remaining number stored in the main control RAM 30c every time the special game is executed. When the remaining number of times becomes 0, the main control CPU 30a sets a value that can specify that the game will be controlled to a low base state upon the end of the special game in which the remaining number of times becomes 0 in the base state flag.

[0068] In addition to the above-mentioned processes, the main control CPU 30a also performs the following processes. For example, the main control CPU 30a also performs processes related to normal symbols and processes related to errors. In the normal symbol processes, the main control CPU 30a inputs a detection signal from the gate sensor SE4 and starts a normal symbol variation game.

[0069] Next, a description will be given of various processes executed by the sub-control CPU 31a of the sub-control board 31 based on the sub-control program. When a control signal is input from the main control CPU 30a, the sub-control CPU 31a executes various processes in response to the control signal.

[0070] First, the effect symbol variation process for executing the effect game will be described. When the sub-control CPU31a inputs a special symbol designation command and a variation pattern designation command, the sub-control CPU31a controls the effect display device 12 to execute an effect game corresponding to the special game. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU31a inputs a special symbol designation command, the sub-control CPU31a determines a combination of effect symbols to be derived in the effect game based on the special symbol designated by the input special symbol designation command. When a jackpot symbol of a special symbol is designated, the sub-control CPU31a determines a pattern combination of a jackpot by the effect symbols. As a result, in the effect game of this embodiment, when a jackpot is determined in the jackpot determination, a jackpot display result is derived. Also, when a losing symbol of a special symbol is designated, the sub-control CPU31a determines a combination of effect symbols to be derived in the effect game based on a variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command. Specifically, when a losing variation pattern capable of identifying the execution of a reach effect is designated, the sub-control CPU31a determines a losing symbol combination for the reach. In this embodiment, the losing symbol combination for a reach is a combination of effect symbols in which the effect symbols in a specific column (for example, the first column and the second column) are the same, and the effect symbols in the other columns (for example, the third column) are different. Also, when a loss variation pattern that can specify that the reach effect is not executed is specified, the sub-control CPU31a determines a losing symbol combination for a normal loss. In this embodiment, the losing symbol combination for a normal loss is a combination of effect symbols in which the effect symbols in all columns are different.

[0071] Also, when the sub-control CPU31a inputs a variation pattern designation command, it determines the effect to be executed during the execution of the performance game based on the variation pattern designated by the input variation pattern designation command. The process of determining the effect to be executed will be described in detail later. After that, the sub-control CPU31a controls the performance display device 12 to start the variable display of the performance symbols of each symbol row. That is, the sub-control CPU31a starts the performance game. Specifically, the sub-control CPU31a controls the performance display device 12 to variably display three columns of performance symbols. Also, the sub-control CPU31a controls the execution of various performances that have been determined. Next, when a predetermined timing arrives after starting the performance game, the sub-control CPU31a temporarily stops and displays the performance symbols of each symbol row, and then, upon input of the all symbol stop command, causes the performance symbols of each symbol row to be fixed and stopped and displayed. In addition, the sub-control CPU31a may display the performance symbols of each symbol row in a fixed stop state upon the lapse of a variable time set in the variable pattern, regardless of the all symbol stop command. In this case, the all symbol stop command may be omitted.

[0072] Next, the processing related to the big win game will be described. When the sub-control CPU31a receives an opening command, it controls the group of performance devices to execute an opening performance. In this embodiment, the group of performance devices includes the performance display device 12, the decorative lamp La, and the speaker Sp. When the sub-control CPU31a receives a round command, it controls the group of performance devices to execute a round performance. When the sub-control CPU31a receives an ending command, it controls the group of performance devices to execute an ending performance.

[0073] Next, processing related to the game state will be described. When the sub-control CPU31a receives a high probability command from the main control CPU30a, it stores a value indicating a high probability state in the sub-probability state flag of the sub-control RAM31c. When the sub-control CPU31a receives a low probability command from the main control CPU30a, it stores a value indicating a low probability state in the sub-probability state flag of the sub-control RAM31c. Similarly, when the sub-control CPU31a receives a high base command from the main control CPU30a, it stores a value indicating a high base state in the sub-base state flag of the sub-control RAM31c. When the sub-control CPU31a receives a low base command from the main control CPU30a, it stores a value indicating a low base state in the sub-base state flag of the sub-control RAM31c. This allows the sub-control CPU31a to identify the current game state.

[0074] The following describes the effects that can be performed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the presentations that can be executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment include staged presentations that progress across multiple presentation stages. The staged presentations of this embodiment are executed with presentation content that corresponds to the current presentation stage. Specifically, in the staged presentations of this embodiment, an image that corresponds to the current presentation stage is displayed on the presentation display device 12. That is, in this embodiment, the type of image displayed on the presentation display device 12 corresponds to the presentation content of the staged presentation. Note that "image" here includes so-called "moving images."

[0075] The staged performance of this embodiment is executed in a manner in which a series of performance contents are divided into a plurality of performance stages. For example, the staged performance of this embodiment is executed in a manner in which a series of performance contents are divided into a total of five stages, from the first performance stage to the fifth performance stage. The first performance stage is the performance stage at the start of the staged performance. In this embodiment, the first performance stage corresponds to the start stage. Also, the fifth performance stage is the final performance stage in the staged performance. In this embodiment, the fifth performance stage corresponds to the final stage. And the second performance stage to the fourth performance stage are performance stages through which the performance progresses from the first performance stage to the fifth performance stage. In this embodiment, the second performance stage to the fourth performance stage correspond to intermediate stages. That is, in this embodiment, in the staged performance, the performance contents progress from a predetermined start stage to the final stage via a plurality of intermediate stages. Specifically, in the staged performance of this embodiment, the performance stages progress in the order of the first performance stage → the second performance stage → the third performance stage → the fourth performance stage → the fifth performance stage.

[0076] The stage performance of this embodiment may end without progressing to the next performance stage after being executed with the performance contents of a predetermined performance stage. That is, in the stage performance of this embodiment, the performance stage may end at each of the first to fourth performance stages without progressing to the fifth performance stage. And, in the stage performance of this embodiment, the more the performance stage progresses, the higher the expectation (hereinafter, indicated as the jackpot expectation) that the display result of the jackpot will be derived in the variable game being executed is suggested. As described above, in this embodiment, when the display result of the jackpot is derived in the special game, the display result of the jackpot is also derived in the performance game corresponding to the special game. Therefore, the jackpot expectation of the variable game in this embodiment is the expectation of the jackpot display result being derived in the special game, and is also the expectation of the jackpot display result being derived in the performance game.

[0077] Specifically, in the stage presentation of this embodiment, the expected probability of a big win increases in the order of the finally reached presentation stage: 1st presentation stage < 2nd presentation stage < 3rd presentation stage < 4th presentation stage < 5th presentation stage. In the stage presentation of this embodiment, when the presentation stage progresses to the final stage (in this embodiment, the 5th presentation stage), it is definitely suggested that a display result of a big win will be derived in the variable game being executed.

[0078] In addition, the stage performance of this embodiment includes a first stage performance and a second stage performance, which have different performance contents from each other. The performance contents of each stage performance will be described in detail below. As shown in FIG. 3(a), each of the first stage performances includes a performance stage executed with a predetermined performance content and a performance stage executed with any of a plurality of types of performance content. Specifically, the performance content of the first stage performance in the first performance stage is the first performance content A. The performance content of the first stage performance in the second performance stage is either the second performance content A1 or the second performance content A2. The performance content of the first stage performance in the third performance stage is the third performance content. The performance content of the first stage performance in the fourth performance stage is either the fourth performance content A1 or the fourth performance content A2. And the performance content of the first stage performance in the fifth performance stage is the fifth performance content A. In other words, in this embodiment, in the first stage performance, when it is any of the first performance stage, the third performance stage, and the fifth performance stage, the performance content is predetermined, and when it is any of the second performance stage and the fourth performance stage, the performance content is any of multiple types of performance content.

[0079] Also, as shown in FIG. 3(b), each performance stage of the second stage performance, like the first stage performance, includes a performance stage executed with a predetermined performance content and a performance stage executed with any of a plurality of types of performance content. Specifically, the performance content of the second stage performance when it is the first performance stage is the first performance content B. The performance content of the second stage performance when it is the second performance stage is either the second performance content B1 or the second performance content B2. The performance content of the second stage performance when it is the third performance stage is the third performance content. The performance content of the second stage performance when it is the fourth performance stage is either the fourth performance content B1 or the fourth performance content B2. And, the performance content of the second stage performance when it is the fifth performance stage is the fifth performance content A. In other words, in this embodiment, in the second stage performance, when it is any of the first performance stage, the third performance stage, or the fifth performance stage, the performance content is predetermined, and when it is any of the second performance stage or the fourth performance stage, the performance content is any of multiple types of performance content.

[0080] In this embodiment, the number of stages when the performance stage progresses from the start stage (first performance stage) to the final stage (fifth performance stage) is the same whether it is the first stage performance or the second stage performance. In addition, in this embodiment, the performance contents when the performance stage is the first performance stage, the second performance stage, the fourth performance stage, and the fifth performance stage are different from each other in the first stage performance and the second stage performance, while the performance contents when the performance stage is the third performance stage are the same. Therefore, in this embodiment, whether it is the first stage performance or the second stage performance, when the performance stage is the third performance stage, the stage performance is executed with the same performance contents. In other words, in this embodiment, in both the first stage performance and the second stage performance, the performance stages through which the performance stage passes when it progresses from the start stage to the final stage include the performance stage executed with the third performance contents. In this embodiment, the performance stage executed with the third performance contents corresponds to a specific intermediate stage.

[0081] In addition, in this embodiment, a super reach performance (indicated as SP reach in the figure) may be executed after the stage performance ends. At this time, the type of super reach performance executed differs depending on the performance content of the performance stage executed last in the stage performance. That is, when a super reach performance is executed after the stage performance ends, the performance content of the super reach performance becomes the performance content according to the performance content of the stage performance. For example, when a super reach performance is executed after the first stage performance is executed in any of the first performance stage to the third performance stage, the first super reach performance is executed. In this embodiment, the first super reach performance is executed with the first specific content, which is the performance content related to the performance content when the first stage performance is executed in the first performance stage to the third performance stage. Here, the related performance content is, for example, a performance content having a series of stories or a performance content in which the same character is displayed. In addition, when a super reach performance is executed after the first stage performance is executed in the fourth performance stage, the second super reach performance is executed. In this embodiment, the second super reach effect is executed with the second specific content which is the effect content related to the effect content when the first stage effect is executed in the fourth effect stage.

[0082] On the other hand, if a Super Reach performance is executed after the second stage performance is executed in any one of the first to third performance stages, a third Super Reach performance is executed. In this embodiment, the third Super Reach performance is executed with a third specific content which is a performance content related to the performance content when the second stage performance is executed in the first to third performance stages. And, if a Super Reach performance is executed after the second stage performance is executed in the fourth performance stage, a fourth Super Reach performance is executed. In this embodiment, the fourth Super Reach performance is executed with a fourth specific content which is a performance content related to the performance content when the second stage performance is executed in the fourth performance stage.

[0083] As described above, in this embodiment, when a stage performance is executed during the execution of a variable game, and the performance stage does not progress to the final stage (fifth performance stage) in the stage performance, the super reach performance may be executed after the end of the stage performance. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when a stage performance is executed during the execution of a variable game, and the performance stage progresses to the final stage (fifth performance stage) in the stage performance, the display result of the big win is displayed in the variable game without executing the super reach performance after the end of the stage performance.

[0084] As shown in Fig. 4, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a progress specific effect that can specify the progress of the performance stage in the stage performance during the execution of the stage performance. The progress specific effect of this embodiment is executed regardless of the performance stage of the current performance stage in the stage performance being executed. The progress specific effect of this embodiment is executed by displaying a progress specific image 50 that can specify the progress of the performance stage in the stage performance being executed on the performance display device 12.

[0085] In this embodiment, the progress specific image 50 is an image that can identify the maximum number of stages in the stage performance and the current performance stage. Specifically, the progress specific image 50 of this embodiment is configured to include a plurality of element images 51 to 55 indicating each performance stage in the stage performance, and a frame image 56 displayed so as to surround the element image indicating the current performance stage.

[0086] For example, as shown in FIG. 4(a), in the progress specific performance, when the current performance stage is the first performance stage, a plurality of element images 51 to 55 indicating each performance stage are displayed as the progress specific image 50, and a frame image 56 is displayed so as to surround the first element image 51 indicating the first performance stage. In this embodiment, the first element image 51 indicating the first performance stage is configured to include an image imitating the number "1". Similarly, the second element image 52 indicating the second performance stage is configured to include an image imitating the number "2", the third element image 53 indicating the third performance stage is configured to include an image imitating the number "3", and the fourth element image 54 indicating the fourth performance stage is configured to include an image imitating the number "4". On the other hand, the fifth element image 55 indicating the fifth performance stage is configured to include an image imitating the alphabet "V". This suggests that in the progress specific performance, when the performance stage progresses to the fifth performance stage in the stage performance, a big win display result is derived.

[0087] Also, as shown in Fig. 4(b)-(e), in the progress specific performance, when the current performance stage is one of the second performance stage to the fifth performance stage, a plurality of element images 51-55 showing each performance stage are displayed as the progress specific image 50, and a frame image 56 is displayed so as to surround the element image showing the current performance stage. At this time, the element image showing the performance stage that has already ended is displayed darker than the element image showing the current performance stage and the element image showing the performance stage that has not yet progressed. For example, when the current performance stage is the third performance stage, the first element image 51 showing the first performance stage and the second element image 52 showing the second performance stage are displayed darker than the third element image 53 showing the third performance stage, the fourth element image 54 showing the fourth performance stage, and the fifth element image 55 showing the fifth performance stage (Fig. 4(c)).

[0088] In this way, the progress specific performance of this embodiment is executed in a different performance mode depending on the current performance stage. In particular, in the progress specific performance of this embodiment, the current performance stage can be specified, and the number of remaining stages until the final stage (fifth performance stage) can be specified. In other words, the progress specific performance of this embodiment is executed in a performance mode that can specify the number of remaining stages from the current performance stage to the final stage.

[0089] In addition, the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a narration performance in which a specific sound is output from the speaker Sp during the execution of the stage performance. In the narration performance of this embodiment, a sound corresponding to the performance content of the stage performance being executed is output as the specific sound. In particular, in the narration performance of this embodiment, a narration sound explaining the performance content of the stage performance being executed is output as the specific sound.

[0090] In this embodiment, the narration performance starts with the start of the stage performance, and ends when the performance symbol is temporarily stopped in the currently running performance game. Therefore, the narration voice is output during a part or all of the period from the start of the stage performance to the temporarily stopped display of the performance symbol in the currently running performance game, while the output is stopped before the performance symbol is fixed and stopped in the currently running performance game. In other words, in this embodiment, when the stage performance and the narration performance are executed during the execution of a predetermined variation game, the timing when the variation of the symbol ends in the currently running variation game is when the narration voice is stopped.

[0091] In addition, the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a special super reach effect, which is one of the reach effects, by displaying the same image as the image displayed in the step effect. Specifically, in the special super reach effect of this embodiment, among the images displayed in the step effect, an image displayed when the step effect is executed in the third performance content is displayed, and then an image displayed when the step effect is executed in the fourth performance content A1 is displayed. That is, in the special super reach effect of this embodiment, the same image as the image displayed when the step effect is executed in the third performance content and the fourth performance content A1 is displayed. After that, in the special super reach effect, if a jackpot display result is derived in the variable game being executed, among the images displayed in the step effect, an image displayed when the step effect is executed in the fifth performance content A is displayed. On the other hand, if a jackpot display result is not derived in the variable game being executed, a special super reach effect is executed with a performance content for a miss that is different from the fifth performance content A.

[0092] In this way, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, some of the images displayed in the stage performance are also displayed in the special super reach performance, which is different from the stage performance. In this embodiment, the images displayed when the stage performance is executed in each of the performance contents of the third performance content, the fourth performance content A1, and the fifth performance content A correspond to the specific images displayed on the performance display device 12 in the stage performance. And, in this embodiment, the specific images are also displayed in the special super reach performance. That is, in this embodiment, the special super reach performance corresponds to a special performance that is different from the stage performance.

[0093] Furthermore, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a character voice effect in which a predetermined sound is output from the speaker Sp during execution of a special super reach effect. In the character voice effect of this embodiment, a sound different from the narration sound output in the narration effect is output. In particular, in the character voice effect of this embodiment, a sound by a character displayed in the special super reach effect is output. That is, in the special super reach effect of this embodiment, the effect display device 12 displays the same image as the image displayed in the step effect, while a sound different from the narration effect is output.

[0094] Next, the process for executing the stage performance will be described. First, the process of determining whether or not to execute a step-by-step performance and the performance content when executing a step-by-step performance will be described. The sub-control CPU 31a executes the process of determining the performance content when the variable pattern designation command is input. That is, in this embodiment, at the start of the variable game, it is possible to determine whether or not to execute a step-by-step performance for the variable game.

[0095] As shown in Fig. 5, in the presentation content determination process, the sub-control CPU31a first determines whether the current game state is a normal game state (step S1). If the current game state is not a normal game state (step S1: NO), the sub-control CPU31a ends the presentation content determination process. That is, in this embodiment, the stage presentation is not executed when the current game state is not a normal game state.

[0096] On the other hand, if the current game state is the normal game state (step S1: YES), the sub-control CPU31a decides whether or not to execute a step-by-step performance (step S2). In step S2, the sub-control CPU31a decides whether or not to execute a step-by-step performance by, for example, performing a performance execution lottery using a predetermined random number. At this time, the sub-control CPU31a controls so that the performance execution lottery is won with a different probability depending on the type of variation pattern that can be specified from the input variation pattern designation command. Specifically, when the variation pattern that can be specified from the input variation pattern designation command is a big win variation pattern, the sub-control CPU31a controls so that the performance execution lottery is won with a higher probability than when the variation pattern is a loss variation pattern. This suggests that when the step-by-step performance is executed, the expectation of a big win is higher than when the step-by-step performance is not executed. In addition, the sub-control CPU 31a may control the game so that the probability of winning the performance determination lottery is the same regardless of the type of fluctuation pattern that can be specified from the fluctuation pattern designation command, thereby making the expected probability of a jackpot indicated when a stage performance is executed the same as when a stage performance is not executed.

[0097] If it is not determined that a stage performance is to be performed (step S2: NO), the sub-control CPU31a ends the performance content determination process. On the other hand, if it is determined that a stage performance is to be performed (step S2: YES), the sub-control CPU31a determines the type of stage performance to be performed (step S3). At this time, the sub-control CPU31a determines which stage performance to perform, the first stage performance or the second stage performance, by a predetermined lottery. At this time, the sub-control CPU31a may determine the type of stage performance to be performed at different ratios depending on the type of fluctuation pattern that can be specified from the fluctuation pattern designation command, or may determine the type of stage performance to be performed at the same ratio regardless of the type of fluctuation pattern.

[0098] Next, the sub-control CPU31a determines the performance stage to which the stage performance will finally progress (step S4). At this time, the sub-control CPU31a determines the performance stage to which the stage performance will finally progress at different rates according to the type of variation pattern that can be specified from the input variation pattern designation command, thereby making the expectation of a jackpot different when the stage performance progresses to each performance stage. Here, in order to increase the expectation of a jackpot when the stage performance progresses to a predetermined performance stage, it is preferable to increase the ratio of determining the predetermined performance stage in the case of a jackpot in the sum of the determination ratio for determining the predetermined performance stage as the performance stage to which the stage performance will finally progress in the case of a jackpot and the determination ratio for determining the predetermined performance stage as the performance stage to which the stage performance will finally progress in the case of a miss. Also, in order to definitively suggest that a jackpot display result will be derived when the stage performance progresses to the predetermined performance stage, it is preferable to make it possible to determine the predetermined performance stage as the performance stage to which the stage performance will finally progress in the case of a jackpot, while not determining the predetermined performance stage as the performance stage to which the stage performance will finally progress in the case of a miss.

[0099] In addition, when the final performance stage in the stage performance is determined, the sub-control CPU31a determines the performance content in each performance stage (step S5). As described above, in this embodiment, the same performance content is determined as the performance content of the third performance stage regardless of the type of stage performance to be executed. Specifically, the sub-control CPU31a determines the third performance content as the performance content of the third performance stage regardless of the type of stage performance to be executed. In addition, in this embodiment, the performance content according to the type of stage performance to be executed is determined as the performance content of the first performance stage and the fifth performance stage. Specifically, when the execution of the first stage performance is determined, the sub-control CPU31a determines the first performance content A as the performance content of the first performance stage and determines the fifth performance content A as the performance content of the fifth performance stage. On the other hand, when the execution of the second stage performance is determined, the sub-control CPU31a determines the first performance content B as the performance content of the first performance stage and determines the fifth performance content B as the performance content of the fifth performance stage.

[0100] In this embodiment, as the performance contents of the second and fourth performance stages, a plurality of types of performance contents that can be determined are determined according to the type of stage performance to be executed, and one of the plurality of types of performance contents is determined by a predetermined lottery. Specifically, when the execution of the first stage performance is determined, the sub-control CPU31a determines, by a predetermined lottery, either the second performance content A1 or the second performance content A2 as the performance contents of the second performance stage, and determines, by a predetermined lottery, either the fourth performance content A1 or the fourth performance content A2 as the performance contents of the fourth performance stage. On the other hand, when the execution of the second stage performance is determined, the sub-control CPU31a determines, by a predetermined lottery, either the second performance content B1 or the second performance content B2 as the performance contents of the second performance stage, and determines, by a predetermined lottery, either the fourth performance content B1 or the fourth performance content B2 as the performance contents of the fourth performance stage.

[0101] In addition, when the content of each performance stage is determined, the sub-control CPU31a determines whether or not to execute a super reach performance after the end of the stage performance (step S6). At this time, when the sub-control CPU31a determines the fifth performance stage as the performance stage to which the stage performance will progress to the end, it determines not to execute a super reach performance after the end of the stage performance. On the other hand, when the sub-control CPU31a determines any one of the first performance stage to the fourth performance stage as the performance stage to which the stage performance will progress to the end, it determines whether or not to execute a super reach performance after the end of the stage performance according to the type of variation pattern that can be specified from the input variation pattern designation command. At this time, when the sub-control CPU31a determines the execution of a super reach performance, the sub-control CPU31a determines the type of super reach performance according to the type of stage performance and the performance stage determined as the performance stage to which the stage performance will progress to the end. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU31a has determined to execute the first stage performance and has determined any one of the first to third performance stages as the performance stage to be progressed to the end, it determines to execute the first super reach performance. Also, when the sub-control CPU31a has determined to execute the first stage performance and has determined the fourth performance stage as the performance stage to be progressed to the end, it determines to execute the second super reach performance. On the other hand, when the sub-control CPU31a has determined to execute the second stage performance and has determined any one of the first to third performance stages as the performance stage to be progressed to the end, it determines to execute the third super reach performance. Also, when the sub-control CPU31a has determined to execute the second stage performance and has determined the fourth performance stage as the performance stage to be progressed to the end, it determines to execute the fourth super reach performance.

[0102] Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 31a stores information capable of identifying the content determined in the effect content determination process in the sub-control RAM 31c. Then, the sub-control CPU 31a ends the effect content determination process.

[0103] Next, the process for executing the staged presentation will be described with a specific example of the flow of the presentation. In the example shown in Fig. 6, it is assumed that the execution of the first stage performance is determined in the performance content determination process, and the fifth performance stage is determined as the performance stage to be progressed to in the end. In this example, it is assumed that the first performance content A is determined as the performance content of the first performance stage, the second performance content A1 is determined as the performance content of the second performance stage, the third performance content is determined as the performance content of the third performance stage, the fourth performance content A1 is determined as the performance content of the fourth performance stage, and the fifth performance content A is determined as the performance content of the fifth performance stage.

[0104] The sub-control CPU31a controls the effect display device 12 to variably display the effect symbols of each symbol row with the start of the variable game (time t1). Next, the sub-control CPU31a controls the effect display device 12 to start a stage effect at a predetermined timing after the effect symbols are variably displayed (time t2). At this time, the sub-control CPU31a controls the stage effect to start with the effect content based on the information stored in the sub-control RAM31c. In this example, the sub-control CPU31a controls the first stage effect of the first effect stage to be executed with the first effect content A.

[0105] At this time, the sub-control CPU 31a controls the performance display device 12 to start a progress specific performance in conjunction with the start of the stage performance, and controls the speaker Sp to start a narration performance. The sub-control CPU 31a controls the performance display device 12 to execute a progress specific performance and a narration performance with performance content corresponding to the performance content of the stage performance being executed.

[0106] Thereafter, the sub-control CPU31a controls the stage of the staged performance to progress from the first performance stage to the fifth performance stage (times t2 to t6). Specifically, when the first performance stage ends in the staged performance, the sub-control CPU31a advances to the second performance stage (time t3). In this example, the sub-control CPU31a executes the first stage performance of the second performance stage with the second performance content A1. Next, when the second performance stage ends in the staged performance, the sub-control CPU31a advances to the third performance stage (time t4). In this example, the sub-control CPU31a executes the first stage performance of the third performance stage with the third performance content. Next, when the third performance stage ends in the staged performance, the sub-control CPU31a advances to the fourth performance stage (time t5). In this example, the sub-control CPU31a executes the first stage performance of the fourth performance stage with the fourth performance content A1. Then, when the fourth performance stage ends in the stage performance, the sub-control CPU31a advances to the fifth performance stage (time t6). In this example, the sub-control CPU31a executes the stage performance of the fifth performance stage with the fifth performance content A.

[0107] After that, the sub-control CPU31a controls the display of the performance symbols of each symbol row to be temporarily stopped while the first stage performance of the fifth performance stage is being executed in the fifth performance content A, and controls the narration performance to end (time t7). Then, the sub-control CPU31a controls the display of the performance symbols of each symbol row to be fixed and stopped, and controls the stage performance to end (time t8). In addition, the sub-control CPU31a controls the progress specific performance to end with the end of the stage performance.

[0108] As described above, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, the stage performance can be executed during the execution of one variation game. As described above, the sub-control CPU 31a of this embodiment can determine the execution of the stage performance on the condition that the current game state is determined to be the normal game state in the performance content determination process. Therefore, in this embodiment, the stage performance is executed during the execution of one variation game in the normal game state. In other words, the stage performance is started in the normal game state and is ended before the game state transitions to a game state different from the normal game state. In this embodiment, the normal game state corresponds to a specific game state.

[0109] In the example shown in Fig. 7, it is assumed that the execution of the first stage performance is determined in the performance content determination process, and the second stage is determined as the final performance stage. In this example, it is assumed that the first performance content A is determined as the performance content of the first performance stage, and the second performance content A1 is determined as the performance content of the second performance stage. Furthermore, in this example, it is assumed that it is determined that the first super reach will be executed after the stage performance ends.

[0110] The sub-control CPU31a controls the effect display device 12 to variably display the effect symbols of each symbol row with the start of the variable game, and then to start the stage effect at a predetermined timing (time t11 to t12). At this time, the sub-control CPU31a controls to start the stage effect with the effect contents based on the information stored in the sub-control RAM31c, and to start the progress specific effect and the narration effect. Next, when the first effect stage ends in the stage effect, the sub-control CPU31a advances to the second effect stage (time t13).

[0111] After that, the sub-control CPU31a controls to end the stage performance with the end of the second performance stage, and to end the progress specific performance and the narration performance (time t14). At this time, the sub-control CPU31a also controls to stop and display the performance symbols of specific symbol rows (in this embodiment, the first and second rows) among the symbol rows in a reach pattern combination, and to start the first super reach performance.

[0112] Next, the sub-control CPU31a controls the remaining symbol rows (the third row in this embodiment) to be temporarily stopped during the execution of the first super reach performance (time t15). After that, the sub-control CPU31a controls the performance symbols of each symbol row to be fixed and stopped as the variable game ends, and controls the first super reach performance to end (time t16).

[0113] As a result of the above, the sub-control CPU 31a can perform control to execute a reach presentation after the end of the stage presentation. Next, the process for executing the special super reach performance will be described.

[0114] When the sub-control CPU31a inputs a variation pattern designation command, it decides whether or not to execute a special super reach performance. At this time, when the variation pattern that can be specified from the input variation pattern designation command is a specific variation pattern, the sub-control CPU31a decides to execute a special super reach performance, but when the variation pattern is not a specific variation pattern, it does not decide to execute a special super reach performance. In this embodiment, when the variation pattern that can be specified from the input variation pattern designation command is a specific variation pattern, the sub-control CPU31a does not decide to execute a stage performance in the above-mentioned performance content determination process.

[0115] Next, the processing for executing the special super reach effect will be explained together with a specific example of the flow of the effect. As shown in Fig. 8, the sub-control CPU31a variably displays the effect symbols of each symbol row with the start of the variable game (time t21). Next, the sub-control CPU31a controls the display of the effect symbols of a specific symbol row (the first and second symbol rows in this embodiment) in a reach-like symbol combination to start the special super reach effect (times t22 to t23). At this time, the sub-control CPU31a controls the speaker Sp to start the character voice effect with the start of the special super reach effect.

[0116] After that, the sub-control CPU31a advances the special super reach effect in the order of the third effect content, the fourth effect content A1, and the fifth effect content A (time t23 to t27). Here, the sub-control CPU31a controls the remaining symbol strings (the third string in this embodiment) to be temporarily stopped while the special super reach effect is being executed in the fifth effect content A (time t26). Then, the sub-control CPU31a controls the effect symbols of each symbol string to be fixed and stopped as the variable game ends, and controls the special super reach effect to end (time t27). Although not shown, if the variable game being executed is not a variable game that derives a big win display result, the sub-control CPU31a controls the special super reach effect to be executed with the effect content for a loss, without advancing the effect content to the fifth effect content A after the fourth effect content A1.

[0117] As described above, the sub-control CPU31a can execute the special super reach performance with the performance contents that are partly or entirely the same as those in the stage performance. On the other hand, during the execution of the special super reach performance, the sub-control CPU31a can output a sound that is different from the narration sound that is output during the execution of the stage performance.

[0118] The effects of this embodiment will be described. (1) When a stage performance is executed for the first time, a player can grasp the progress of the performance stage by paying attention to the progress specific performance. The intermediate stages through which the stage performance progresses from the first performance stage, which is the start stage, to the fifth performance stage, which is the final stage, include the third performance stage, which is executed with the third performance content, regardless of the type of stage performance. Therefore, when the performance content becomes the third performance content in the second or subsequent stage performance, the player can grasp the progress of the current performance stage without paying attention to the progress specific performance. Therefore, in this embodiment, the progress of the performance stage in the stage performance can be easily grasped, thereby improving the interest of the player.

[0119] (2) Since a staged performance is executed in such a manner that a series of performance contents is divided into a number of performance stages, when the performance stages progress in a staged performance, the performance contents at each performance stage can be enjoyed continuously as a series of performances.

[0120] (3) Regardless of whether the first stage presentation or the second stage presentation is used, the number of stages required to progress from the start stage to the final stage is the same, so that regardless of which stage presentation is executed, it is possible to make it easier for the player to grasp the number of stages required to progress to the final stage.

[0121] (4) The progress-specific presentation makes it possible to specify the number of stages from the current presentation stage to the final stage in the ongoing stage presentation, thereby increasing the interest of players who are looking forward to progressing to the final stage.

[0122] (5) When the stage of a stage presentation progresses to the final stage, it is definitely suggested that a jackpot display result will be derived in the variable game being executed, thereby increasing the sense of anticipation for the presentation stage progressing to the final stage.

[0123] (6) After the end of a stage performance, a super reach performance may be executed with content corresponding to the content of the stage performance, so that the stage performance and the super reach performance can be associated with each other for enjoyment.

[0124] (7) In particular, in this embodiment, when the stage of the stage performance does not progress to the final stage, the super reach performance is executed after the end of the stage performance, so that the player can be entertained. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when the stage performance progresses to the final stage in the stage performance, the super reach performance is not executed after the end of the stage performance, so that the performance can be prevented from becoming protracted.

[0125] (8) The multi-stage presentation can be executed when the current game state is the normal game state. Therefore, in this embodiment, the multi-stage presentation can be executed for the normal game state, which is a game state that is not advantageous to the player compared to the advantageous game state, thereby increasing the interest of the player.

[0126] (9) In particular, the stage performance can be executed in a normal game state in which the average fluctuation time of one fluctuation game is longer than when a high base state is applied. This allows the player to enjoy the process of the performance stage progressing over a sufficient performance time when executing a stage performance that progresses over multiple performance stages.

[0127] (10) In this embodiment, since the narration performance can be executed during the execution of the stage performance, the display of the image by the stage performance and the output of the narration sound by the narration performance can synergistically entertain the player. On the other hand, since the output of the narration sound is stopped when the variation of the performance symbols ends, the player can concentrate on which combination of performance symbols is derived, and it is easy to recognize the combination of the performance symbols that is finally displayed.

[0128] (11) In this embodiment, it is possible to execute a special super reach presentation using the same image as the image displayed in the stage presentation, so that it is possible to diversify the presentation in the gaming machine while preventing the storage area of ​​the sub-control ROM 31b from being overloaded.

[0129] (12) During the execution of a special super reach effect, it is possible to execute a character voice effect that outputs a voice different from the narration voice output during the execution of a stage effect. This makes it possible to diversify the effects in the gaming machine while preventing confusion between the stage effect and the special super reach effect, in which the same image is displayed.

[0130] The above-described embodiment can be modified as follows. The above-described embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

[0131] The game state in which the multi-stage performance can be executed may be changed as appropriate. For example, the multi-stage performance may be executable in either the normal game state or the advantageous game state, or may be executable in the advantageous game state but not executed in the normal game state.

[0132] The stage performance may be executable across multiple variation games. In this case, the main control CPU30a pre-determines the results of the big win lottery and the variation pattern determination lottery in the variation game in which the reserved condition is satisfied before the execution condition is satisfied, and outputs a look-ahead command capable of identifying the result of the pre-determination to the sub-control CPU31a. The sub-control CPU31a may then determine the performance mode of the stage performance based on the result of the pre-determination identified from the look-ahead command. At this time, the stage performance may be started when the current game state is a high base state, and may be ended before the high base state ends. According to this, even when the stage performance is executed in a high base state in which the average variation time of the variation game is shorter than that in a low base state, the stage performance can be executed across multiple variation games, allowing the player to enjoy the process in which the performance stage progresses over a sufficient performance time. In this modification example, the high base state corresponds to a specific game state.

[0133] In the stage performance, the performance contents of each performance stage may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU31a may determine the performance contents of the first performance stage in each stage performance by a predetermined lottery from among a plurality of performance contents. Also, the sub-control CPU31a may determine the performance contents of the second and fourth performance stages in each stage performance that are determined in advance. Also, the performance contents of the third performance stage may be different depending on the type of performance stage, or the performance contents that can be determined as the performance contents of the first, second, fourth, and fifth performance stages may be the same regardless of the type of performance stage.

[0134] In staged presentation, the content of each stage may be separate and independent. In other words, staged presentation does not have to be executed in a manner in which a series of content is divided into multiple stages.

[0135] The stage performance is not limited to a display performance executed by the performance display device 12, but may be executed as an audio performance by a speaker Sp, or a light-emitting performance by decorative lamps La, or may be executed by a combination of these.

[0136] The number of performance stages in the stage performance may be changed as appropriate. For example, the number of stages when progressing from the start stage to the final stage may be 4 stages or less, or 6 stages or more. If the number of stages when progressing from the start stage to the final stage is 3, the number of intermediate stages is 1, and if the number of stages when progressing from the start stage to the final stage is 4 or more, the number of intermediate stages is multiple. In addition, the number of stages when progressing from the start stage to the final stage may be different depending on the type of stage performance. In addition, even if the type of stage performance to be executed is the same, the sub-control CPU31a may change the number of stages when progressing from the start stage to the final stage by a predetermined lottery, or may change the number of stages when progressing from the start stage to the final stage depending on the variation pattern that can be specified from the variation pattern designation command.

[0137] In a staged performance, when progressing from the start stage to the final stage, some or all of the intermediate stages may not be passed through. For example, after the performance stages progress from the first performance stage, which is the start stage, to the second performance stage, and then to the third performance stage, the performance stage may progress to the fifth performance stage without passing through the fourth performance stage. In this case, the sub-control CPU31a may determine the performance stage to be passed through by lottery using a predetermined random number, or may determine the performance stage to be passed through according to a variation pattern that can be specified from the input variation pattern designation command. This makes it difficult to predict the performance stage to be progressed to next after the current performance stage in the staged performance, so that the player can be surprised and enjoy the performance.

[0138] In staged presentation, the presentation may progress from the start stage to the final stage without passing through a specific intermediate stage. For example, when the sub-control CPU 31a advances the presentation from the start stage to the final stage, the sub-control CPU 31a may advance from the first presentation stage, which is the start stage, to the second presentation stage, and then advance to the fourth presentation stage without passing through the third presentation stage, and then advance to the fifth presentation stage, which is the final stage.

[0139] The jackpot expectation level suggested in the stage performance may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 31a may control the jackpot display result not to be derived even if the performance stage has progressed to the fifth performance stage.

[0140] Whether or not to execute a stage performance, and the performance mode when executing the stage performance may be determined for each variation pattern. In this case, the sub-control CPU31a may control the stage performance according to the variation pattern that can be specified from the variation pattern designation command. Specifically, for each variation pattern, whether or not to execute a stage performance, the type of stage performance to be executed, the performance stage to which the stage performance will ultimately progress, and the performance content of each performance stage may be determined. In addition, for each variation pattern, whether or not to execute a super reach performance after the stage performance ends, and the type of super reach performance to be executed may be determined.

[0141] The type of super reach performance that can be executed after the end of the stage performance may be changed as appropriate. For example, when the performance stage finally reached in the stage performance is a predetermined performance stage, the sub-control CPU31a may execute any one of a plurality of types of super reach performances that have been determined in advance when executing the super reach performance thereafter.

[0142] The type of super reach performance executable after the end of the first stage performance may be partially or entirely the same as the type of super reach performance executable after the end of the second stage performance. For example, when the final performance stage in each stage performance is any one of the first to third performance stages, the sub-control CPU31a executes the same type of super reach performance after the end of the stage performance regardless of the type of stage performance. On the other hand, when the final performance stage in each stage performance is the fourth performance stage, the sub-control CPU31a may control to execute different types of super reach performance depending on the type of stage performance.

[0143] When the combination of the final stage in the stage performance and the type of super reach performance executed after the end of the stage performance is a specific combination, the granting of a predetermined benefit may be definitively suggested. In this case, the sub-control CPU31a may control the combination of the final stage in the stage performance and the type of super reach performance executed after the end of the stage performance so that it can be a specific combination, on the condition that the granting of the predetermined benefit is confirmed. In addition, as the predetermined benefit, for example, the granting of a jackpot game or the granting of a high probability state after the end of a jackpot game may be adopted.

[0144] The content of the final stage in a stage performance and the content of the super reach performance executed after the stage performance ends may be unrelated to each other.

[0145] · In the stage performance, if the performance stage finally reached is a predetermined performance stage, the super reach performance may not be executed thereafter. For example, the sub-control CPU31a may control so that the super reach performance can be executed when the performance stage finally reached in the stage performance is a performance stage equal to or higher than the specified stage, while not executing the super reach performance when the performance stage is less than the specified stage. According to this, even if the final stage is not reached in the stage performance, the player can enjoy the stage performance by paying attention to whether or not the specified stage is reached. Also, the sub-control CPU31a may control so that the super reach performance can not be executed when the performance stage finally reached in the stage performance is a performance stage equal to or higher than the specified stage, while controlling so that the super reach performance can be executed when the performance stage is less than the specified stage. According to this, when the performance stage in the stage performance reaches the specified stage, the super reach performance is not executed thereafter, thereby preventing the performance from becoming protracted, while when the performance stage does not reach the specified stage, the player can enjoy the game by expecting that the super reach performance will be executed thereafter.

[0146] The sub-control CPU31a may control the super reach presentation so as to be executable thereafter, even if the presentation stage reaches the final stage in the stage presentation. The sub-control CPU31a may perform control so as not to execute a super reach presentation after the end of the stage presentation.

[0147] The progress specific performance may be changed as appropriate as long as it is possible to specify the progress of the performance stage in the stage performance. For example, the sub-control CPU31a may display an image that can specify the current performance stage (in this case, "1") and the number of stages in the stage performance (in this case, "5"), such as "1 / 5", in the progress specific performance. Also, the sub-control CPU31a may display an image that can specify the current performance stage, such as "first stage", in the progress specific performance, but not display an image that can specify the number of stages in the stage performance. In other words, the progress specific performance may be executed in a performance mode that cannot specify the number of stages from the current performance stage to the final stage in the ongoing stage performance.

[0148] The progress specific performance may be executed in a performance mode that suggests that the provision of a predetermined benefit has been confirmed when the performance stage has progressed. For example, the sub-control CPU31a may control the progress specific performance to be executed in a performance mode that suggests that the jackpot display result has been derived and that the jackpot game will be provided thereafter when the performance stage has progressed to the fifth performance stage. The sub-control CPU31a may also control the progress specific performance to be executed in a performance mode that suggests that the super reach performance has been confirmed when the specified stage has been reached in the stage performance. In this case, the progress specific performance may be executed in a performance mode that suggests that the super reach performance has been confirmed when the specified stage has been reached. Here, the performance mode that suggests that the provision of a benefit has been confirmed may be a performance mode that allows the content of the benefit to be provided to be recognized, or may be a performance mode that does not allow the content of the benefit to be provided to be recognized. The performance mode that allows the content of the benefit to be provided to be recognized is, for example, a performance mode that displays an image that imitates the character strings "jackpot confirmed" or "super reach confirmed." In addition, the presentation mode in which the content of the given benefit cannot be recognized is, for example, a presentation mode in which the color of a part or all of the images of the progress specific image 50 is changed, or a presentation mode in which a predetermined effect image is displayed separately from the progress specific image 50. Note that the predetermined benefit suggested by the progress specific presentation is not limited to the fact that the running variable game becomes a jackpot or that a super reach presentation is executed, but may be, for example, that the pending variable games include a variable game that becomes a jackpot.

[0149] The specific progress effect may be performed as a light emission effect using the decorative lamp La, or as an audio effect using the speaker Sp. The specific progression effect may not be executed during a part of the period during which the stage effect is being executed. For example, when the stage effect has progressed to the final stage in the stage effect, the specific progression effect may not be executed during the execution of the final stage effect.

[0150] This may also be embodied in gaming machines that do not have specific progression effects. The content of the narration performance may be changed as appropriate. The narration voice output in the narration performance may include a special narration voice that can be output on the condition that a predetermined benefit is given. For example, the sub-control CPU31a may control the special narration voice to be output on the condition that a jackpot display result is derived in the running variation game. For example, the sub-control CPU31a may control the special narration voice to be output on the condition that a jackpot variation game is included in the pending variation games.

[0151] The start and end timings of the narration performance may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU31a may start the narration performance after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the stage performance. The sub-control CPU31a may also control the output of the narration sound by the narration performance to be temporarily stopped before the performance stage progresses to a predetermined performance stage in the stage performance. This can prevent the player's attention from being directed to the output of the narration sound, and allow the player to focus on whether the performance stage progresses in the stage performance. In this case, the sub-control CPU31a may resume the output of the narration sound by the narration performance after the performance stage progresses to a predetermined performance stage in the stage performance, or may end it without resuming it.

[0152] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not have a narration performance. The sub-control CPU31a may control not to execute the character voice effect during the execution of the special super reach effect. In this case, the sub-control CPU31a may execute an effect that is not executed during the execution of the stage effect during the execution of the special super reach effect, instead of the character voice effect. This can prevent the player from confusing the stage effect with the special super reach effect.

[0153] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not have a special super reach effect. In other words, the present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not have a separate effect using images displayed in the stage effect.

[0154] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that provides a high probability state when a gaming ball is detected by a specific sensor. The present invention may also be embodied in a gaming machine (so-called ST machine) that provides a high probability state with an upper limit until the number of times a special game is executed after a jackpot game has ended reaches a predetermined number of times of probability change. The present invention may also be embodied in a gaming machine (so-called falling machine) that provides a high probability state with an upper limit until a predetermined falling lottery is won after a jackpot game has ended.

[0155] The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine having three or more types of probability states as its probability state. Also, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine having one type of probability state as its probability state. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine that does not have a probability variation function that varies the probability of being determined as a jackpot in the jackpot determination.

[0156] The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied in a gaming machine having three or more types of base states as its base state. Also, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied in a gaming machine having one type of base state as its base state. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not have a ball entry rate improvement function for improving the ball entry rate of the game balls into the second starting hole 14.

[0157] The probability of a normal hit in the low base state may be a probability exceeding 0 (zero). In this case, the first variable member 15 may be operated to the permissive state in the low base state. The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine having a setting function for changing the probability of a jackpot by setting one of a plurality of setting values ​​that determine the probability of a jackpot.

[0158] The main control CPU30a may not generate a standby command. In this case, the sub-control CPU31a may control to the first restriction state, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the end of the presentation game without inputting either the variation pattern designation command or the opening command. That is, the sub-control CPU31a may determine that the standby state has been entered on the condition that a predetermined time has elapsed after the end of the presentation game without starting either the next presentation game or the big win game.

[0159] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine (a so-called type 1 / type 2 mixed machine) that awards a jackpot game when a gaming ball is detected by a specific sensor. The sub-control board 31 may be a sub-integrated control board, and a display control board that specializes in controlling the performance display device 12, an audio control board that specializes in controlling the speaker Sp, and a lamp control board that specializes in controlling the decorative lamp La may be provided separately from the sub-control board 31. Also, some or all of the display control board, audio control board, and lamp control board may be the same board. Also, the sub-control CPU 31a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0160] The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be equipped with a single control board that integrates the functions of the main control board 30 and the sub-control board 31. The functions of the main control board 30 may be divided and realized on multiple boards. The main control CPU 30a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0161] The type of the jackpot may be changed as appropriate. For example, some or all of the upper limit number of rounds in the jackpot game, the opening time of the jackpot opening, and the number of times the jackpot opening is opened may be changed.

[0162] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine having multiple big prize slots. The first special game and the second special game may be played according to the order in which the game balls enter the starting holes 13, 14, or may be played simultaneously in parallel. The second special game may be omitted.

[0163] The present invention may be applied to a pachinko machine that does not execute a special game. In this case, it is preferable to display a special symbol on the special game display device 12. The technical ideas that can be understood from this embodiment and its modifications will be described.

[0164] (i) In the stage presentation, when the presentation stage progresses to the final stage, it is suggested that a jackpot display result will be displayed in the variable game being executed. (b) The presentation control means is capable of controlling the execution of a reach presentation after the end of the stage presentation, and when the reach presentation is executed after the end of the stage presentation, the presentation content of the reach presentation becomes a presentation content corresponding to the presentation content of the stage presentation.

[0165] (c) When the stage presentation is executed during the execution of the variable game and the presentation stage does not progress to the final stage in the stage presentation, the reach presentation may be executed after the end of the stage presentation, whereas when the stage presentation is executed during the execution of the variable game and the presentation stage progresses to the final stage in the stage presentation, the display result of the jackpot is displayed without the reach presentation being executed after the end of the stage presentation.

[0166] (D) A gaming machine capable of executing a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a winning lottery, and in the case of a big win in the winning lottery, a big win display result is displayed in the variable game, and capable of executing various effects in relation to the variable game or the result of the variable game, the gaming machine is provided with an effect execution means for executing effects, and an effect control means for controlling the effect execution means, the effects include stage effects that can progress across a plurality of performance stages, and the stage effects can progress from a start stage to a final stage via a plurality of intermediate stages, and the start stage The intermediate stages through which the game progresses from the final stage include specific intermediate stages and non-specific intermediate stages, and the specific intermediate stages are executed with one set of performance contents, while the non-specific intermediate stages are executed with any one of a plurality of performance contents. The performance execution means is capable of executing a specific progression performance that can specify the progress of a performance stage in the stage performance during execution of the stage performance, and the specific progression performance is executed regardless of which performance stage the current performance stage in the stage performance being executed is, and is executed in a different performance mode depending on the current performance stage.

[0167] (e) The stage presentation includes a first stage presentation and a second stage presentation which have different presentation contents, and in either the first stage presentation or the second stage presentation, the number of stages when progressing from the start stage to the final stage is the same, and the presentation content of the specific intermediate stage in the first stage presentation and the presentation content of the specific intermediate stage in the second stage presentation are the same presentation content.

[0168] (e) The performance execution means includes an audio output means for outputting audio, and the audio output means is capable of executing a narration performance that outputs a specific audio that enables the performance content of the stage performance to be recognized during execution of the stage performance.

[0169] (G) A gaming machine capable of executing a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a winning lottery, and in the event of a jackpot being won in the winning lottery, a display result of the jackpot is displayed in the variable game, and capable of executing various effects in relation to the variable game or the result of the variable game, the gaming machine is provided with an effect execution means for executing effects, and an effect control means for controlling the effect execution means, the effect execution means including a display means for displaying images, and an audio output means for outputting audio, the effect being capable of executing a stage effect that can progress across a plurality of performance stages, a progress specific effect that can specify the progress of the performance stages in the stage effect, and a narration effect that outputs a specific audio by which the content of the performance of the stage effect can be recognized, and the progress specific effect and the narration effect are outputted. The narration performance is executed during the execution of the stage performance, and the stage performance is executed by a performance execution means of the performance execution means that is different from the display means, while the progress specific performance is executed by the display means of the performance execution means and the narration performance is executed by the audio output means, and in the stage performance, it is possible to progress from a start stage to a final stage via one or more intermediate stages, and the intermediate stages passed through when progressing from the start stage to the final stage include specific intermediate stages, and the progress specific performance is executed regardless of what performance stage the current performance stage is in the stage performance being executed, and in the progress specific performance, at least the current performance stage can be identified by displaying element images in different manners depending on the current performance stage. [Explanation of symbols]

[0170] La...decorative lamp (performance execution means), Sp...speaker (performance execution means, audio output means), 12...performance display device (performance execution means, display means), 30...main control board, 30a...main control CPU (game status control means), 30b...main control ROM, 30c...main control RAM, 31...sub-control board, 31a...sub-control CPU (performance control means), 31b...sub-control ROM (storage means), 31c...sub-control RAM.

Claims

1. A gaming machine capable of executing a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a winning lottery, and displaying a winning display result in the variable game when a winning lottery is won, and capable of executing various effects in the variable game or in relation to the result of the variable game, A performance execution means for executing a performance; A performance control means for controlling the performance execution means, The performance includes a stage performance that can progress across a plurality of performance stages, In the stage production, the game can proceed from a start stage to a final stage via a plurality of intermediate stages, The intermediate stages through which the process proceeds from the start stage to the final stage include a specific intermediate stage and a non-specific intermediate stage, When the specific intermediate stage is executed in one performance content, the non-specific intermediate stage is executed in any one of a plurality of performance contents; The performance execution means is capable of executing a progress specific performance indicating a progress state of a performance stage in the stage performance during the performance of the stage performance, The specific progress performance is executed in a different performance mode depending on a current performance stage, and when the stage performance progresses to the final stage, it can be executed in a performance mode that suggests that a predetermined benefit has been granted; When the bonus is not awarded, the stage performance does not progress to the final stage, A gaming machine characterized in that the presentation mode of the specific progress presentation when the stage presentation has progressed to the final stage is a presentation mode in which the content of the benefit that has been confirmed to be awarded can be recognized.

2. A gaming machine capable of executing a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a winning lottery, and displaying a winning display result in the variable game when a winning lottery is won, and capable of executing various effects in the variable game or in relation to the result of the variable game, A performance execution means for executing a performance; A performance control means for controlling the performance execution means, The performance execution means includes a display means for displaying an image and a sound output means for outputting sound; The performance includes a stage performance that can progress through a plurality of performance stages, a specific progress performance that suggests a progress state of the performance stage in the stage performance, and a specific sound performance that outputs a specific sound that can recognize the performance content of the stage performance, The specific progress performance and the specific sound performance are executed during the execution of the stage performance, The stage performance and the progress specific performance are executed by the display means of the performance execution means, The specific sound production is executed by the sound output means, In the stage performance, the game can proceed from a start stage to a final stage via one or more intermediate stages, The intermediate steps through which the process proceeds from the start step to the final step include a specific intermediate step, In the progress specific performance, the element image is displayed in a different manner depending on the current performance stage, so that at least the current performance stage can be identified; The specific progress effect may be executed in a performance mode that suggests that a predetermined benefit has been awarded when the stage effect has progressed to the final stage, When the bonus is not awarded, the stage performance does not progress to the final stage, A gaming machine characterized in that the presentation mode of the specific progress presentation when the stage presentation has progressed to the final stage is a presentation mode in which the content of the benefit that has been confirmed to be awarded can be recognized.

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