Gaming Machines

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of increasing interest in a game.SOLUTION: A main control CPU causes a big winning game to occur when a game ball is detected by a specific passing sensor during a detection valid period in a special winning game. A performance display device can execute a detection valid notification performance indicating that a game ball has been detected by the specific passing sensor within the detection valid period in the special winning game and a privilege notification performance indicating the number of game balls that can be acquired in the special winning game. The privilege notification performance can be executed while the detection valid notification performance is executed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, among pachinko gaming machines, which are a type of gaming machine, a winning game is generated when a winning lottery is won, and a predetermined bonus is awarded on the condition that the gaming ball passes through a specific area during the winning game.

[0003] For example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when a small jackpot is won in a winning lottery, a small jackpot game is triggered, and a big jackpot game is triggered on the condition that the gaming ball passes through a special passing area as a specific area during the small jackpot game. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-124321 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, nowadays, in gaming machines that award a specified bonus on the condition that the gaming ball passes through a specific area in such a winning game, there is a demand for increasing interest in the game by devising ways to notify the player of the bonus that he or she can obtain. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A gaming machine that solves the above problem is a gaming machine in which, if a special drawing results in a special result, a special game is generated in which a special ball entrance is opened, and in which gaming balls can be acquired as prize balls or prize data, the gaming machine is provided with: a special drawing means for conducting the special drawing; a special game control means for generating the special game; a specific detection means for detecting gaming balls that pass through a specific area within the special ball entrance among gaming balls that have entered the special ball entrance; a bonus granting means for granting a bonus on the condition that a gaming ball has been detected by the specific detection means in the special game; a notification means for executing a predetermined notification; a notification control means for controlling the notification means; a storage means for storing various information relating to the game; an initialization control means capable of executing initialization control to initialize at least a part of the information stored in the storage means in conjunction with the start of power supply to the gaming machine; and a mode control means for controlling a presentation mode that defines the manner of various presentations, and the notifications executed by the notification means include: A specific area launch notification that prompts the launch of the game ball into the specific area, and a non-passage notification that notifies the player that the game ball has not passed through the specific area; In the special game, there is a specific notification that notifies that the game ball has passed through the specific area, and a special notification regarding the number of game balls acquired, and the notification control means is It is possible to control the execution of the specific area launch notification in response to the start of the special game, and when a specified time has elapsed without a game ball being detected by the specific detection means during the execution of the specific area launch notification, it is possible to control the execution of the non-passage notification; It is possible to control the execution of the specific notification in response to the detection of the game ball by the specific detection means in the special game. the law of nature, The special notification can be controlled during the execution of the specific notification. The specific area launch notification and the non-passage notification may be terminated simultaneously; The mode control means controls the gaming machine to a predetermined specific presentation mode when the initialization control is executed in conjunction with the start of power supply to the gaming machine, and when a gaming ball is not detected by the specific detection means during the special game, controls the gaming machine to the specific presentation mode upon the end of the special game. A gaming machine that solves the above problem is a gaming machine in which, if a special drawing results in a special result, a special game is generated in which a special ball entrance is opened, and in which gaming balls can be acquired as prize balls or prize data, the gaming machine is provided with: a special drawing means for conducting the special drawing; a special game control means for generating the special game; a specific detection means for detecting gaming balls that pass through a specific area within the special ball entrance among gaming balls that have entered the special ball entrance; a bonus granting means for granting a bonus on the condition that a gaming ball has been detected by the specific detection means in the special game; a notification means for executing a predetermined notification; a notification control means for controlling the notification means; a storage means for storing various information relating to the game; an initialization control means capable of executing initialization control to initialize at least a part of the information stored in the storage means in conjunction with the start of power supply to the gaming machine; and a mode control means for controlling a presentation mode that defines the manner of various presentations, and the notifications executed by the notification means include: A specific area launch notification that prompts the launch of the game ball into the specific area, and a non-passage notification that notifies the player that the game ball has not passed through the specific area; In the special game, there is a specific notification that notifies that the game ball has passed through the specific area, and a special notification regarding the number of game balls acquired, and the notification control means is It is possible to control the execution of the specific area launch notification in response to the start of the special game, and when a specified time has elapsed without a game ball being detected by the specific detection means during the execution of the specific area launch notification, it is possible to control the execution of the non-passage notification; It is possible to control the execution of the specific notification in response to the detection of the game ball by the specific detection means in the special game. the law of nature, The special notification can be controlled during the execution of the specific notification. The specific area launch notification and the non-passage notification may be terminated simultaneously; The mode control means controls the gaming machine to a predetermined specific presentation mode when the initialization control is executed in conjunction with the start of power supply to the gaming machine, and when a gaming ball is not detected by the specific detection means during the special game, controls the gaming machine to a special presentation mode different from the specific presentation mode upon the end of the special game. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, interest in games can be increased. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a pachinko gaming machine. [Diagram 2]FIG. [Diagram 3] 1A is an explanatory diagram showing the types of big winning symbols, and FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram showing the types of special winning symbols. [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine; [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the transition of presentation modes. [Figure 6] 13A to 13K are explanatory diagrams showing aspects of a detection validity notification effect, a bonus notification effect, and a continuation notification effect. [Figure 7] 13 is a flowchart showing a specific detection process. [Figure 8] 13A and 13B are explanatory diagrams showing aspects of the non-passage notification presentation. [Figure 9] 13A is an explanatory diagram showing a non-passage notification presentation, and FIG. 13B is an explanatory diagram showing a detection invalid notification presentation. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the mode of the end notification presentation. [Figure 11] 11(a) to 11(d) are timing charts showing a specific example of the flow of effects when a gaming ball passes through a specific area during a special winning game. [Figure 12] 13(a) and 13(b) are timing charts showing a specific example of the flow of the presentation when the gaming ball does not pass through a specific area during a special winning game. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] An embodiment of 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. As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 10 as a gaming machine includes a launch handle HD that is operated by a player when launching a gaming ball. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a speaker SP that outputs sound. The speaker SP can output sound such as music and sound effects to execute various notifications (hereinafter referred to as audio notifications) and various presentations (hereinafter referred to as audio presentations). The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a decorative lamp LA having a light-emitting body not shown. The decorative lamp LA can execute various notifications (hereinafter referred to as light-emitting notifications) and various presentations (hereinafter referred to as light-emitting presentations) by turning on, blinking, and extinguishing the light-emitting body.

[0010] The pachinko game machine 10 includes a game board YB. A game area YBa is formed on the front side of the game board YB, into which game balls can flow. In this embodiment, game balls launched by operating the launch handle HD reach the game area YBa. The game board YB includes an opening window YBb in the approximate center when viewed from the front. A center frame W with various designs is attached to the opening window YBb.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 2, the pachinko game machine 10 includes a performance display device 12 having an image display unit GH capable of displaying an image. The performance display device 12 is attached to the game board YB so that the image display unit GH is visible through an opening window YBb (center frame W) of the game board YB when viewed from the front. For example, the image display unit GH is a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The performance display device 12 can execute various notifications (hereinafter referred to as display notifications) and various performances (hereinafter referred to as display performances) by displaying various images. In this embodiment, the performance display device 12 functions as a notification means for executing a predetermined notification.

[0012] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an information display device 13 capable of displaying predetermined information. The information display device 13 is provided on the game board YB at a position visible to the player. The information display device 13 includes a first special symbol display unit 13a. The first special symbol display unit 13a is capable of executing a first special symbol variable game as a variable game in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and the first special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed and stopped display. The information display device 13 includes a second special symbol display unit 13b. The second special symbol display unit 13b is capable of executing a second special symbol variable game as a variable game in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and the second special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed and stopped display. The first special symbol and the second special symbol are symbols for notifying the result of a special winning lottery described later.

[0013] In the following description, the special winning lottery for the first special symbol is abbreviated to "first special winning lottery," and the special winning lottery for the second special symbol is abbreviated to "second special winning lottery." The first special symbol changing game is abbreviated to "first special game," and the second special symbol changing game is abbreviated to "second special game." The first special game and the second special game are collectively referred to as "special games." In this specification, "changing display" means a state in which the type of the displayed symbol changes over time. In this specification, "determined stop display" means a state in which the symbol is definitively displayed and the type of the displayed symbol does not change. With respect to symbols, "determined stop display" and "derivation" have the same meaning.

[0014] The special symbols that can be derived in the first special symbol display section 13a and the second special symbol display section 13b include a special winning symbol as a special winning result, a jackpot symbol as a jackpot result, and a losing symbol as a losing result. In this embodiment, the first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously. In this embodiment, when a special winning is won in the special winning lottery, a special winning symbol is derived in the special game, and a special winning game is generated after the special game ends. The special winning game will be described in detail later. Also, when a jackpot is won in the special winning lottery, a jackpot symbol is derived in the special game, and a jackpot game is generated after the special game ends. In the following description, a jackpot won in the special winning lottery may be referred to as a "pattern winning", and a jackpot game awarded when a jackpot is won in the special winning lottery may be referred to as a "pattern winning game". The jackpot game will be described in detail later. On the other hand, if neither the special win nor the jackpot is won in the special win lottery, a losing symbol is drawn in the special game. That is, in the first special symbol display section 13a and the second special symbol display section 13b of this embodiment, a special game can be executed in which the special symbols are changed and stopped based on the result of the special win lottery.

[0015] The information display device 13 includes a first special hold display section 13c. The first special hold display section 13c displays information that can identify the number of first special games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met. In the following description, the number of first special games that are on hold is indicated as the "first special hold number". In this embodiment, the maximum value of the first special hold number is "4". The information display device 13 includes a second special hold display section 13d. The second special hold display section 13d displays information that can identify the number of second special games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met. In the following description, the number of second special games that are on hold is indicated as the "second special hold number". In this embodiment, the maximum value of the second special hold number is "4".

[0016] The information display device 13 includes a normal symbol display unit 13e. The normal symbol display unit 13e 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 lottery, which will be described later. In the following description, the normal symbol variation game is abbreviated to "normal game." The normal symbols that can be derived to the normal symbol display unit 13e include a normal winning symbol and a normal losing symbol. In this embodiment, when a normal winning symbol is won in the normal lottery, a normal winning symbol is derived in the normal game, and a normal winning game is awarded after the normal game ends.

[0017] The information display device 13 includes a regular hold display section 13f. The regular hold display section 13f displays information that can identify the number of regular games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met. In the following description, the number of regular games on hold is referred to as the "regular hold number." In this embodiment, the maximum value of the regular hold number is "1." Note that each display section in the information display device 13 does not need to be provided on one display device, and may be provided on different parts. In addition, the information display device 13 may include a right hit display section that displays information instructing a so-called "right hit" and a round display section that notifies the upper limit number of rounds of play, which will be described later.

[0018] A plurality of winning holes into which game balls can enter are formed on the game board YB. The plurality of winning holes are open to the game area YBa. The plurality of winning holes include a first start winning hole 14, a second start winning hole 15, a first large winning hole 18, and a second large winning hole 20. The plurality of winning holes may include a winning hole different from these winning holes.

[0019] The first start winning opening 14 is a winning opening through which game balls enter to establish the conditions for awarding prize balls and the reservation conditions for the first special game. As an example, the first start winning opening 14 is located below the performance display device 12. The first start winning opening 14 is always open so that game balls can enter. The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a first start winning sensor SE1 that detects a game ball that has entered the first start winning opening 14 (see FIG. 4). Specifically, in this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first start winning sensor SE1, the conditions for awarding three game balls as prize balls are established.

[0020] The second start winning opening 15 is a winning opening through which a game ball enters to establish the conditions for awarding a prize ball and the reservation conditions for the second special game. As an example, the second start winning opening 15 is located to the right of the performance display device 12. The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a second start winning sensor SE2 that detects a game ball that enters the second start winning opening 15 (see FIG. 4). Specifically, in this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the second start winning sensor SE2, the conditions for awarding one game ball as a prize ball are established.

[0021] The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a normal movable piece 16 that can be in a first operating state in which the game ball cannot enter the second start winning hole 15, and a second operating state in which the game ball can enter the second start winning hole 15. The normal movable piece 16 is always in the first operating state, and operates to the second operating state when a normal winning game is generated. In other words, when a normal winning game is generated, the second start winning hole 15 becomes capable of receiving the game ball. The game board YB is provided with a first solenoid SL1 as a means for operating the normal movable piece 16 (see FIG. 4).

[0022] The first large prize opening 18 is an opening through which game balls enter in order to establish the conditions for awarding a prize ball. As an example, the first large prize opening 18 is located below the second start prize opening 15. The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a first count sensor SE3 that detects a game ball that has entered the first large prize opening 18 (see FIG. 4). Specifically, in this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first count sensor SE3, the conditions for awarding one game ball as a prize ball are established.

[0023] The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a first special opening / closing piece 19 that can take an open state in which the first large prize winning opening 18 is opened so that the game ball can enter, and a closed state in which the first large prize winning opening 18 is closed so that the game ball cannot enter. That is, in this embodiment, the first special opening / closing piece 19 corresponds to an operating means that can take a first operating state in which the game ball can enter the first large prize winning opening 18, and a second operating state in which the game ball cannot enter the first large prize winning opening 18. For example, the first special opening / closing piece 19 may be a door-like member that opens and closes the first large prize winning opening 18. The first special opening / closing piece 19 is always in a closed state, and operates to an open state when a special winning game is generated. That is, when a special winning game is generated, the first large prize winning opening 18 is opened so that the game ball can enter. The game board YB is provided with a second solenoid SL2 as a means for operating the first special opening / closing piece 19 (see FIG. 4).

[0024] A passage 26 is provided at the back of the first large prize opening 18, through which the gaming ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 can pass. The passage 26 is provided so as to branch into a first passage 26a and a second passage 26b at a branching portion 27 downstream of the first large prize opening 18.

[0025] The branching section 27 is provided with a distribution shutter 28 which distributes the gaming ball that has entered the first large prize opening 18 to the first passage 26a or the second passage 26b by the operation of the fourth solenoid SL4 (see FIG. 4). The distribution shutter 28 operates so as to be capable of taking a first distribution state in which the gaming ball that has entered the first large prize opening 18 is distributed to the first passage 26a, and a second distribution state in which the gaming ball is distributed to the second passage 26b. That is, in this embodiment, the distribution shutter 28 corresponds to a distribution means. The distribution shutter 28 operates in a predetermined operation pattern when a predetermined operation condition is established.

[0026] The pachinko game machine 10 includes a specific passage sensor SE5 that detects a game ball that enters the first large prize opening 18 and passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a (see FIG. 4). That is, in this embodiment, the specific passage sensor SE5 corresponds to a specific detection means. The specific area is a so-called V area. Although details will be described later, in this embodiment, when the first large prize opening 18 is opened in a special winning game, a big win occurs when the game ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a and is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5, and a big win game occurs. In this embodiment, the allocation of the game ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 to either the first passage 26a or the second passage 26b can also be understood as a winning lottery for a role. In this case, the distribution of the game ball that entered the first big winning opening 18 to the first passage 26a corresponds to winning the big win in the lottery for winning the role. In the following description, the big win won in the lottery for winning the role may be referred to as a "playable win", and the big win game awarded when the big win is won in the lottery for winning the role may be referred to as a "playable win-based big win game". In other words, the pachinko game machine 10 in this embodiment is a game machine that can award a big win game based on a symbol win and a big win game based on a role win (a so-called "one-type two-type mixed machine").

[0027] The second large prize opening 20 is an opening through which game balls enter in order to establish the conditions for awarding prize balls. As an example, the second large prize opening 20 is located below the first large prize opening 18. The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a second count sensor SE4 that detects game balls that enter the second large prize opening 20 (see FIG. 4). Specifically, in this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the second count sensor SE4, the conditions for awarding 15 game balls as prize balls are established.

[0028] The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a second special opening / closing piece 21 that can be in an open state in which the second large prize winning opening 20 is opened so that the game ball can enter, and in a closed state in which the second large prize winning opening 20 is closed so that the game ball cannot enter. For example, the second special opening / closing piece 21 may be a door-like member that opens and closes the second large prize winning opening 20. The second special opening / closing piece 21 is always in a closed state, and operates to an open state when a jackpot game is generated. That is, when a jackpot game is generated, the second large prize winning opening 20 is opened so that the game ball can enter. The game board YB is provided with a third solenoid SL3 as a means for operating the second special opening / closing piece 21 (see FIG. 4). In this embodiment, in a jackpot game, the second large winning opening 20 is opened, and the condition for awarding a prize ball is met when a game ball that has entered the second large winning opening 20 is detected by the second count sensor SE4. That is, in this embodiment, in a jackpot game, a game ball can be acquired as a prize ball.

[0029] The game board YB has a gate 23. As an example, the gate 23 is located above the second start winning hole 15. The gate 23 has a gate opening 23a formed therein. The gate opening 23a is always open so that game balls can enter the gate. The pachinko game machine 10 has a gate sensor SE6 that detects game balls that have entered the gate opening 23a (see FIG. 4). The gate opening 23a is an entry opening through which game balls can enter in order to establish the start conditions for the normal game. Even if a game ball enters the gate opening 23a, the conditions for awarding prize balls are not established.

[0030] Next, the path along which the gaming ball flows in this embodiment will be described. The pachinko game machine 10 configured as above has a plurality of paths through which the game balls flow down in the game area YBa according to the launch strength of the game balls. The paths through which the game balls flow down can also be understood as the areas through which the game balls flow down. The plurality of paths include a first path R1 that flows down the left side of the center frame W (performance display device 12) and a second path R2 that flows down the right side of the center frame W (performance display device 12). The first path R1 and the second path R2 may overlap in part or may not overlap in whole. In the following description, the area located to the left of the center line CL that bisects the game area YBa to the left and right when the game board YB is viewed from the front is referred to as the left area R1a, and the area located to the right of the center line CL is referred to as the right area R2a. That is, in this embodiment, the path that flows down the left area R1a is the first path R1, and the path that flows down the right area R2a is the second path R2. In this embodiment, the left region R1a corresponds to the first region, and the right region R2a corresponds to the second region.

[0031] A player can hit a game ball into the left area R1a or the right area R2a by adjusting the launch strength of the game ball by operating the launch handle HD. The first start winning hole 14 is opened on the first route R1 (left area R1a). Therefore, when the game ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to be weak, the game ball is likely to flow down the left area R1a and may enter the first start winning hole 14. On the second route R2 (right area R2a), the gate hole 23a, the second start winning hole 15, the first large winning hole 18, and the second large winning hole 20 are opened in order from the upstream side. Therefore, when the game ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to be strong, the game ball is likely to flow down the right area R2a and may enter the second start winning hole 15, the first large winning hole 18, the second large winning hole 20, or the gate hole 23a.

[0032] In the following description, the launch of a game ball toward the left side region R1a by launching the game ball with a launch strength that makes it easy for the game ball to flow down the first path R1 may be referred to as a "left hit." Also, the launch of a game ball with a launch strength that makes it easy for the game ball to flow down the second path R2 may be referred to as a "right hit."

[0033] Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the pachinko game machine 10 has a non-time-saving state and a time-saving state as game states in which the average fluctuation time of the special game is different. The time-saving state of this embodiment is a state in which the average fluctuation time of the special game is shorter than that of the non-time-saving state. Also, the time-saving state of this embodiment is a state in which the probability of the game ball entering the second start winning hole 15 is higher than that of the non-time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, the time-saving state is a ball-entry rate improvement state in which the ball entry rate of the game ball into the second start winning hole 15 is improved compared to the non-time-saving state.

[0034] For example, the ball entry rate of the game balls into the second start winning hole 15 can be improved by performing one of the three controls described below, which is arbitrarily selected, or by performing a combination of the controls. The first control is a normal symbol variation time shortening control that shortens the variation time of the normal game. The second control is a normal symbol probability variation control that varies the probability of winning a normal win in a normal lottery (normal win probability) to a high probability. The third control is an operation time extension control that lengthens the total operation time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state in one normal win game. The operation time extension control may be at least one of a control that increases the number of times the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state in one normal win game, and a control that lengthens the operation time of one operation when the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state in a normal win game.

[0035] In particular, in this embodiment, the operating time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operating state in one normal winning game in the non-time-saving state is short enough that the game ball cannot actually enter the second start winning hole 15. Therefore, in this embodiment, in the non-time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot the game ball to the left region R1a than to shoot the game ball to the right region R2a. In other words, the non-time-saving state can be said to be a game state in which hitting from the left is recommended.

[0036] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the operating time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operating state in one normal winning game in the time-saving state is long enough for the game ball to enter the second start winning hole 15. Therefore, in this embodiment, in the time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot the game ball to the right area R2a than to the left area R1a. In other words, the time-saving state can be said to be a game state in which right-handed hitting is recommended.

[0037] Next, a special winning game in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. The special winning game is started after the end of the special game in which the special winning symbol is derived. In the special winning game, a special feature game is played to open the first large winning hole 18. Specifically, in the special feature game, a predetermined performance is first performed for a predetermined opening time. For example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance indicating the start of the special feature game. In the special feature game, an opening game is played to open the first large winning hole 18 after the opening time has elapsed. The opening game is ended when a first opening end condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls (in this embodiment, one ball) enter the hole, or a second opening end condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed. In the opening game of the special feature game, the first large winning hole 18 is opened to be in a predetermined opening mode. Specifically, in this embodiment, the first large winning hole 18 is opened at the start of the opening game and closed at the end of the opening game. That is, in this embodiment, the first special opening / closing piece 19 operates to the open state when the opening game starts, and operates to the closed state when the opening game ends. Also, in this embodiment, a predetermined effect is performed during the opening game in the role game. For example, the predetermined effect is an opening game effect indicating that the opening game for opening the first large winning opening 18 is being executed. After that, in the role game, a predetermined effect is performed for a predetermined ending time. For example, the predetermined effect is an ending effect indicating the end of the role game.

[0038] In the special winning game of this embodiment, if the game ball passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a during the role game, a big win game based on the role win occurs after the role game ends. After that, the special winning game ends with the end of the big win game based on the role win. On the other hand, if the game ball does not pass through a specific area in the first passage 26a during the role game, the special winning game ends with the end of the role game.

[0039] Next, the jackpot game in this embodiment will be described. In the following description, when simply referring to a "jackpot game", it is intended to include both a "jackpot game based on a symbol hit" and a "jackpot game based on a bonus hit".

[0040] In the jackpot game, a predetermined performance is first performed for a predetermined opening time. For example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance indicating the start of the jackpot game. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game in which the second large prize winning hole 20 is opened is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. One round game ends when a first round end condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls (10 in this embodiment) enter the hole, or a second round end condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed. In the round game, the second large prize winning hole 20 is opened to a predetermined open state. Specifically, in this embodiment, the second large prize winning hole 20 is opened at the start of the round game and closed at the end of the round game. That is, in this embodiment, the second special opening / closing piece 21 operates to an open state at the start of the round game and operates to a closed state at the end of the round game. In this embodiment, a predetermined performance is performed during the round game. For example, the predetermined effect is a round effect indicating that a round game in which the second large winning port 20 is opened is being played. When the final round game ends, in the jackpot game, the predetermined effect is played for a predetermined ending time. For example, the predetermined effect is an ending effect indicating the end of the jackpot game. Then, the jackpot game ends as the ending time passes.

[0041] Next, the types of wins (big wins and special wins) in this embodiment will be explained. As shown in FIG. 3(a), the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment has a plurality of types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. The types of jackpot symbols are each determined to correspond to a type of jackpot game. The types of jackpot symbols can also be understood as types of jackpots.

[0042] In this embodiment, the jackpot patterns of the special symbols are classified into three groups, ZA, ZB, and ZC, at a predetermined ratio. Specifically, in this embodiment, of the 100 types of 1st special symbol jackpot patterns, 10 types of jackpot patterns are classified into ZA, 40 types of jackpot patterns are classified into ZB, and 50 types of jackpot patterns are classified into ZC. In addition, in this embodiment, all of the 100 types of 2nd special symbol jackpot patterns are classified into ZA.

[0043] In the following explanation, a jackpot based on a jackpot pattern classified as pattern ZA will be referred to as a "jackpot ZA", a jackpot based on a jackpot pattern classified as pattern ZB will be referred to as a "jackpot ZB", and a jackpot based on a jackpot pattern classified as pattern ZC will be referred to as a "jackpot ZC". In addition, in the following explanation, the jackpot games based on the jackpots ZA, ZB, and ZC will be referred to as "jackpot games ZA", "jackpot games ZB", and "jackpot games ZC", respectively.

[0044] In this embodiment, in the jackpot game ZA, the upper limit number of rounds is set to 10. In the jackpot games ZB and ZC, the upper limit number of rounds is set to 3. In this embodiment, in each of the jackpot games ZA to ZC, the upper limit time for each round is set to 25 seconds.

[0045] In this embodiment, after the end of the big win game based on the symbol hit, the time-saving state may be controlled. Specifically, after the end of the big win games ZA and ZB, the time-saving state is controlled. On the other hand, after the end of the big win game ZC, the time-saving state is controlled.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3(b), the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment has a plurality of types of special winning symbols as special winning symbols of special symbols. The types of special winning games are respectively determined for the plurality of types of special winning symbols. The types of special winning symbols can also be understood as the types of special winnings.

[0047] In this embodiment, the special winning symbols of the special symbols are classified into five groups, Za, ZB, Zc, Zd, and Ze, at a predetermined ratio. Specifically, in this embodiment, of the 100 types of special winning symbols of the second special symbols, 10 types of special winning symbols are classified as Za, 15 types of special winning symbols are classified as Zb, 35 types of special winning symbols are classified as Zc, 20 types of special winning symbols are classified as Zd, and 20 types of special winning symbols are classified as Ze. Note that, in this embodiment, the first special symbol does not include a special winning symbol. That is, in this embodiment, the special winning symbol is not derived in the first special game.

[0048] In the following description, a special win based on a special winning symbol classified as Za is referred to as a "special win Za". Similarly, a special win based on a special winning symbol classified as Zb is referred to as a "special win Zb", a special win based on a special winning symbol classified as Zc is referred to as a "special win Zc", a special win based on a special winning symbol classified as Zd is referred to as a "special win Zd", and a special win based on a special winning symbol classified as Ze is referred to as a "special win Ze". In addition, in the following description, the special win games based on the special win Za, special win Zb, special win Zc, special win Zd, and special win Ze are referred to as "special win game Za", "special win game Zb", "special win game Zc", "special win game Zd", and "special win game Ze", respectively.

[0049] In the special winning game of this embodiment, the first special opening / closing piece 19 operates in different operation patterns depending on the type of special winning. Specifically, in each of the special winning games Za to Zd, the first special opening / closing piece 19 operates in an operation pattern that allows the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18. On the other hand, in the special winning game Ze, the first special opening / closing piece 19 operates in an operation pattern that makes it difficult for the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18. Particularly, in this embodiment, in the special winning game Ze, the first special opening / closing piece 19 operates in an operation pattern that makes it substantially impossible for the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18.

[0050] In addition, in the special winning game of this embodiment, the distribution shutter 28 operates in a certain operation pattern. In this operation pattern, the distribution shutter 28 operates in a first distribution state in which the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 18 is distributed to the first passage 26a, and in a second distribution state in which the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 18 is distributed to the second passage 26b.

[0051] In this embodiment, when the game ball passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a in the special winning game and is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5, a big win occurs, and the big win game occurs after the special winning game ends. In the following description, the game ball passing through a specific area in the first passage 26a in the special winning game and being detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 is referred to as a "specific condition."

[0052] In this embodiment, in each of the special winning games Za to Zd, the first special opening / closing piece 19 is operated in an operation pattern that allows the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18, and the distribution shutter 28 is operated in an operation pattern that allows the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 18 to pass through the first passage 26a. Therefore, in each of the special winning games Za to Zd, a specific condition is established and a big winning game can occur. In particular, in each of the special winning games Za to Zd, the first special opening / closing piece 19 and the distribution shutter 28 are operated in an operation pattern that allows the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18 and pass through the first passage 26a with an extremely high probability if the game ball is hit to the right during the special winning game. That is, in this embodiment, in each of the special winning games Za to Zd, if the game ball is hit to the right during the special winning game, there is an extremely high probability that a specific condition will be established and a big winning game will occur.

[0053] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, in the special winning game Ze, the first special opening / closing piece 19 is operated in an operation pattern that makes it substantially impossible for the game ball to enter the first big winning hole 18. For this reason, in the present embodiment, in the special winning game Ze, the specific condition is not established in principle, and the big winning game is not generated.

[0054] In this embodiment, the special winning games Za to Zd correspond to a first special game in which the first special opening / closing piece 19 and the distribution shutter 28 operate in a first operation pattern that allows the game ball to pass through a specific area in the first passage 26a. Also, in this embodiment, the special winning game Ze corresponds to a second special game in which the first special opening / closing piece 19 and the distribution shutter 28 operate in a second operation pattern that makes it more difficult for the game ball to pass through a specific area in the first passage 26a compared to the first operation pattern.

[0055] In the following explanation, the jackpot games that occur when specific conditions are met in each of the special hit games Za, Zb, Zc, Zd, and Ze, will be referred to as "jackpot game Za," "jackpot game Zb," "jackpot game Zc," "jackpot game Zd," and "jackpot game Ze," respectively.

[0056] In this embodiment, in the big win game Za, the upper limit number of round games is set to 10 times. That is, in this embodiment, in the special win game Za, the big prize opening is opened a total of 11 times, including one opening game in the accessory game and ten round games in the big win game. In the big win game Zb, the upper limit number of round games is set to 8 times. That is, in this embodiment, in the special win game Zb, the big prize opening is opened a total of nine times, including one opening game in the accessory game and eight round games in the big win game. In the big win game Zc, the upper limit number of round games is set to 6 times. That is, in this embodiment, in the special win game Zc, the big prize opening is opened a total of seven times, including one opening game in the accessory game and six round games in the big win game. In the jackpot game Zd, the upper limit number of round games is set to three. That is, in this embodiment, in the special jackpot game Zd, the large prize opening is opened a total of four times, including one opening game in the accessory game and three round games in the jackpot game. In the jackpot game Ze, the upper limit number of round games is set to one. That is, in this embodiment, in the special jackpot game Ze, the large prize opening is opened a total of two times, including one opening game in the accessory game and one round game in the jackpot game.

[0057] In this embodiment, in each of the jackpot games Za to Ze, 25 seconds is set as the upper limit time for each round of play. In addition, in this embodiment, in each of the jackpot games Za to Ze, 10 balls are set as the upper limit number of game balls that can be entered in each round of play. Therefore, in the special win games Za to Ze, the number of game balls that can be acquired in one special win game is different. Note that "acquisition" here is not limited to the game balls that are actually acquired by the player by being paid out of the machine, but also includes, for example, updating (adding) the number of balls held by the player that is stored as data in the pachinko game machine 10 or an external device separate from the pachinko game machine 10.

[0058] In this embodiment, after the big win game based on the hit of the role ends, the time-saving state may be controlled. Specifically, after the big win games Za to Zd end, the time-saving state is controlled. On the other hand, after the big win game Ze ends, the time-saving state is controlled.

[0059] Next, the termination conditions when the time-saving state ends will be described. In the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving state may end when a jackpot game is started. In other words, the end condition for ending the time-saving state includes a jackpot end condition that is established when a jackpot game is started.

[0060] In the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving state may end when a special game is executed a predetermined number of times as the upper limit number of times after being controlled to the time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, the end condition for ending the time-saving state includes a number-of-times end condition that is established when a special game is executed a predetermined number of times after being controlled to the time-saving state. In this embodiment, the number of times of operation in the number-of-times end condition is 100 times regardless of the type of jackpot game that has occurred.

[0061] In the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving state may end when the number of times that the special winning symbol is derived in the special game reaches a predetermined upper limit number of times. In other words, the end condition for ending the time-saving state includes a special winning end condition that is established when the special winning symbol is derived in the special game. In this embodiment, the special winning symbol is derived in the special game when a special winning is won in the special winning lottery. Therefore, in this embodiment, the special winning end condition can also be understood as a condition that is established when a special winning is won in the special winning lottery. In this embodiment, the upper limit number of times that the special winning end condition can be won is one regardless of the type of jackpot game that has occurred.

[0062] In the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving state may end when the RAM clear process described later is executed. In other words, the end condition for ending the time-saving state includes an initialization end condition that is established when the RAM clear process is executed.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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 as a fixed stop display, 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. Specifically, when a big win symbol (a big win result) is derived in the special game, a big win symbol combination by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. Furthermore, when a special win symbol (a special win result) is derived in the special game, a symbol combination of a special win by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. And, when a losing symbol (a losing result) is derived in the special game, a losing symbol combination by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. In the following description, the special game and the effect game may be collectively referred to as a "variable game".

[0065] Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. As shown in Fig. 4, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main control board 40. The main control board 40 performs various processes and outputs control signals such as control commands, which are an example of control information, depending on the results of the processes. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a sub-control board 50. The main control board 40 and the sub-control board 50 are connected so that a control signal can be output in one direction from the main control board 40 to the sub-control board 50. The sub-control board 50 executes a predetermined process based on the control signal input from the main control board 40.

[0066] The main control board 40 will now be described in detail. The main control board 40 includes a microprocessor 41. The microprocessor 41 includes a processing unit (hereinafter referred to as the main control CPU 41a) and a storage unit (memory). The main control CPU 41a executes various processes by executing a program for main control. The storage unit of the microprocessor 41 includes a ROM area (hereinafter referred to as the main control ROM 41b) from which information can be read but to which information cannot be written, and a RAM area (hereinafter referred to as the main control RAM 41c) from which information can be read and written.

[0067] The main control ROM 41b stores judgment values ​​and tables used for various judgments and lotteries. The main control ROM 41b stores a plurality of types of variation patterns. The variation pattern is variation information capable of identifying the content of the variation game. In particular, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is information capable of identifying the variation time from the start to the end of the special game. The variation pattern may be information capable of identifying the content of the performance performed during the execution of the special game.

[0068] The main control RAM 41c stores various information that is rewritten depending on the results of processing by the main control CPU 41a. In this embodiment, the main control RAM 41c corresponds to a storage means for storing various information related to the game. For example, the information stored in the main control RAM 41c is a flag, a counter, a timer, etc. The microprocessor 41 includes a random number circuit (not shown) that generates hardware random numbers. The microprocessor 41 may be capable of generating software random numbers by a random number generation process by the main control CPU 41a. Note that the main control CPU 41a, the main control ROM 41b, and the main control RAM 41c are not limited to being configured on a single chip as the microprocessor 41, and may be configured separately from each other.

[0069] The main control CPU 41a is connected to the first start winning sensor SE1, the second start winning sensor SE2, the first count sensor SE3, the second count sensor SE4, the specific passing sensor SE5, and the gate sensor SE6. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to input detection signals output when each sensor detects a gaming ball. The main control CPU 41a is connected to the information display device 13. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the display contents of the information display device 13.

[0070] The main control CPU41a is connected to the first solenoid SL1, the second solenoid SL2, the third solenoid SL3, and the fourth solenoid SL4. The main control CPU41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the normal movable piece 16 by controlling the first solenoid SL1. The main control CPU41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the first special opening / closing piece 19 by controlling the second solenoid SL2. The main control CPU41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the second special opening / closing piece 21 by controlling the third solenoid SL3. The main control CPU41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the distribution shutter 28 by controlling the fourth solenoid SL4.

[0071] The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is provided with a backup power source (not shown) capable of supplying power to the main control board 40 after the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off. The backup power source is, for example, a capacitor or a secondary battery. The main control board 40 is supplied with power from the pachinko gaming machine 10 when the power supply is being supplied to the pachinko gaming machine 10, while after the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off, the main control board 40 is supplied with power from the backup power source, thereby enabling various information stored in the main control RAM 41c to be stored and held (backed up). For example, the information that the main control RAM 41c can store and hold includes information that can specify the result of a special winning lottery. That is, the main control RAM 41c is configured to store and hold the result of a special winning lottery even when the power supply from outside the machine is cut off. For example, the information that the main control RAM 41c can store and hold includes information that can specify the current game state. In other words, the main control RAM 41c is configured to be able to store and retain the game state at the time when the power supply from outside the machine is cut off, even if the power supply from outside the machine is cut off.

[0072] The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is also provided with a RAM clear switch CS that can be operated to erase the contents stored in the main control RAM 41c. The main control CPU 41a is connected to the RAM clear switch CS via a RAM clear switch circuit (not shown). The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to input an operation signal that is output when the RAM clear switch CS is operated (pressed). When the main control CPU 41a inputs an operation signal indicating that the RAM clear switch CS is operated when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is powered on, the main control CPU 41a executes a RAM clear process as initialization control to initialize (erase) various information stored in the main control RAM 41c.

[0073] Next, the sub-control board 50 will be described in detail. The sub-control board 50 includes a sub-control CPU 50a, a sub-control ROM 50b, and a sub-control RAM 50c. The sub-control CPU 50a executes a program for sub-control to perform various processes related to the performance. The sub-control ROM 50b stores the sub-control program and a judgment value used for a predetermined lottery. The sub-control ROM 50b stores display performance data used for display performance, light-emitting performance data used for light-emitting performance, audio performance data used for audio performance, and movable body performance data used for movable body performance.

[0074] The sub-control RAM 50c stores various information that is rewritten during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the sub-control RAM 50c is a flag, a counter, a timer, etc. In this embodiment, the sub-control board 50 is also configured to be capable of generating software random numbers by a random number generation process performed by the sub-control CPU 50a. The sub-control board 50 may also be equipped with a random number generation circuit and be capable of generating hardware random numbers.

[0075] The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the performance display device 12. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the display content of the performance display device 12. The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to a decorative lamp LA. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp LA. The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to a speaker SP. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the output mode of the speaker SP. Thus, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a functions as an alarm control means that controls the alarm means.

[0076] Next, various processes performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described. First, the control when the power is turned on in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. In the power-on process, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the RAM clear switch CS is operated to the ON state based on whether an operation signal is received from the RAM clear switch CS.

[0077] When the RAM clear switch CS is operated to the ON state, the main control CPU 41a performs a RAM clear process for the main control RAM 41c. In the RAM clear process for the main control RAM 41c, the main control CPU 41a initializes (deletes) a part or all of the stored contents of the main control RAM 41c. That is, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a functions as an initialization control means capable of executing an initialization control for initializing at least a part of the information stored in the main control RAM 41c with the start of power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10. In addition, the main control CPU 41a outputs a RAM clear command to the sub-control board 50 with the execution of the RAM clear process for the main control RAM 41c. Then, the main control CPU 41a controls the main control RAM 41c to a state in which a special game can be executed. After that, the main control CPU 41a ends the RAM clear process for the main control RAM 41c and ends the power-on process.

[0078] On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch CS is not turned on, the main control CPU 41a checks whether or not there is a backup abnormality, that is, whether or not there is an abnormality in the contents stored in the main control RAM 41c. If there is a backup abnormality, the main control CPU 41a performs the RAM clear process in the same manner as when the RAM clear switch CS of the main control RAM 41c is turned on.

[0079] On the other hand, if the backup abnormality is not detected, the main control CPU41a performs main control return processing. The main control CPU41a outputs a return command to the sub-control board 50 with the start of the main control return processing. Next, the main control CPU41a controls the special game to be executable based on various information stored (backed up) in the main control RAM 41c. For example, when information that can identify that a special game is being executed is stored in the main control RAM 41c, the main control CPU41a controls the special game being executed to be resumed based on the information. Furthermore, the main control CPU41a outputs a return information command that can identify at least a part of the memory contents of the main control RAM 41c to the sub-control board 50. The return information command is a command that can identify, for example, whether or not a special game is being executed, whether or not a winning game is being played, the current game state, a condition pattern set as an end condition of a specific game state, and the like. After that, the main control CPU41a ends the main control return processing and ends the power-on processing.

[0080] Next, the special symbol input process will be described. In the special symbol input process, the main control CPU41a judges whether the game ball has entered the first start winning port 14 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the first start winning sensor SE1. When the game ball has entered the first start winning port 14, the main control CPU41a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM41c 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 CPU41a adds 1 to the first special reserved number to update it. Then, the main control CPU41a controls the first special reserved display unit 13c to display information that can identify the updated first special reserved number. In this way, the reservation condition of the first special game is established when the game ball is detected by the first start winning sensor SE1 when the first special reserved number is less than the upper limit number. At this time, the main control CPU 41a generates information capable of identifying the updated first special reserved number (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved number command) and sets it in the output buffer. In this embodiment, the information (control command) set in the output buffer is output to the sub-control board 50 in a predetermined output process.

[0081] Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires random numbers generated in the main control board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 41c. For example, the random numbers are special winning random numbers used in a special winning lottery, special symbol random numbers used in a special symbol determination lottery, and variation pattern random numbers used in determining a variation pattern. The main control CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that the random number information is for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number by a predetermined method. The pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment can suspend the execution of the first special game until the start condition of the first special game is satisfied by storing the random number information used for the first special game in the main control RAM 41c.

[0082] When the random number information for the first special game is stored in the main control RAM 41c, if the game ball has not entered the first start winning port 14 and if the number of first special reserved balls is not less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a judges whether the game ball has entered the second start winning port 15 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start winning sensor SE2. If the game ball has entered the second start winning port 15, the main control CPU 41a judges whether the number of second special reserved balls stored in the main control RAM 41c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If the number of second special reserved balls is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a adds 1 to the second special reserved number to update it. At this time, the main control CPU 41a controls the second special reserved display unit 13d to display information that can identify the updated second special reserved number. In this way, the reservation condition of the second special game is established when the second special reservation number is less than the upper limit number and the game ball is detected by the second start winning sensor SE2. Also, at this time, the main control CPU41a generates information capable of identifying the updated second special reservation number (hereinafter, referred to as the second reservation number command) and sets it in the output buffer.

[0083] Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires random numbers generated within the main control board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 41c. The main control CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that the random number information is used for the second special game, and the storage order of the random number information. By storing the random number information used for the second special game in the main control RAM 41c, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can suspend the execution of the second special game until the execution condition of the second special game is met.

[0084] Next, the special symbol start process will be described. In the special symbol start process, the main control CPU41a judges whether the execution condition of the special game is established. The main control CPU41a judges positively when the game is not winning and the special game is not being executed, whereas it judges negatively when the game is winning or the special game is being executed. When the execution condition of the special game is not established, the main control CPU41a ends the special symbol start process. When the execution condition of the special game is established, the main control CPU41a judges whether the second special reserved number stored in the main control RAM41c is "1" or more. When the second special reserved number is "1" or more, the main control CPU41a executes the process of executing the second special game. On the other hand, when the second special reserved number is not "1" or more, the main control CPU41a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM41c is "1" or more. When the first special reserved number is "1" or more, the main control CPU41a executes the process of executing the first special game.

[0085] On the other hand, if the first special reserved number is not "1" or more, the main control CPU41a judges whether or not an output flag is set in a predetermined storage area in the main control RAM41c. The output flag is information that can identify that a standby state command that can identify that the standby state has been output. The standby state is a state when a special game is not being executed, a winning game has not occurred, and a special game is not reserved. If the output flag is not set, the main control CPU41a generates a standby state command and outputs it to the sub-control board 50, and sets an output flag in the main control RAM41c. After that, the main control CPU41a ends the special symbol start process. On the other hand, if the output flag is set, the main control CPU41a ends the special symbol start process without generating a new standby state command.

[0086] When the main control CPU41a executes a process for executing a special game, it first updates the special reserved number stored in the main control RAM41c by subtracting "1". Specifically, when the main control CPU41a executes a first special game, it updates the first special reserved number by subtracting "1" and controls the first special reserved display unit 13c so that the updated first special reserved number is displayed. At this time, the main control CPU41a generates a first reserved number command indicating the updated first special reserved number and sets it in the output buffer. Similarly, when the main control CPU41a executes a second special game, it updates the second special reserved number by subtracting "1" and controls the second special reserved display unit 13d so that the updated second special reserved number is displayed. At this time, the main control CPU41a generates a second reserved number command indicating the updated second special reserved number and sets it in the output buffer.

[0087] Next, the main control CPU41a acquires the first stored random number information from the main control RAM41c among the random number information for the special game. Then, the main control CPU41a performs a special winning lottery using the special winning random number specified from the acquired random number information. That is, in this embodiment, the main control CPU41a corresponds to a special lottery means for performing a special winning lottery as a special lottery. Specifically, when the main control CPU41a executes a first special game, the main control CPU41a acquires the first stored random number information from the main control RAM41c among the random number information for the first special game, and performs a first special winning lottery using the special winning random number specified from the acquired random number information. Similarly, when the main control CPU41a executes a second special game, the main control CPU41a acquires the first stored random number information from the main control RAM41c among the random number information for the second special game, and performs a second special winning lottery using the special winning random number specified from the acquired random number information.

[0088] Here, the main control CPU 41a judges whether or not a jackpot will be won by judging whether or not the value of the special win random number matches the jackpot judgment value stored in the main control ROM 41b. If the value of the special win random number matches the jackpot judgment value, the main control CPU 41a performs jackpot fluctuation processing. In the jackpot fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 41a determines a special symbol from among the special symbols classified as jackpot symbols by performing a lottery to determine the special symbol based on the value of the special symbol random number specified from the acquired random number information. The determined special symbol becomes the fixed stop symbol derived in the special game.

[0089] On the other hand, if the value of the special win random number does not match the jackpot determination value, the main control CPU 41a determines whether or not a special win has been won by determining whether or not the value of the special win random number matches the special win determination value stored in the main control ROM 41b.

[0090] At this time, the main control CPU41a judges whether or not a special win is won by using different special win judgment values ​​in the first special win lottery and the second special win lottery. Therefore, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a special win in the first special win lottery is different from the probability of winning a special win in the second special win lottery. Specifically, in this embodiment, the special win judgment value is allocated so that the special win is won with a higher probability in the second special win lottery than in the first special win lottery. In particular, in this embodiment, the special win judgment value is allocated so that the special win can be won in the second special win lottery, while the special win cannot be won in the first special win lottery.

[0091] When the value of the special win random number matches the special win judgment value, the main control CPU 41a performs special win variation processing. In the special win variation processing, the main control CPU 41a determines a special symbol from among the special symbols classified as special win symbols by performing a lottery based on the value of the special symbol random number specified from the acquired random number information. The determined special symbol becomes the determined stop symbol derived in the special game.

[0092] When the value of the special win random number does not match either the big win judgment value or the special win judgment value, the main control CPU 41a performs a loss variation process. In the loss variation process, the main control CPU 41a determines a special symbol as a loss symbol. The determined special symbol becomes the fixed stop symbol derived in the special game.

[0093] Then, when the main control CPU41a determines the fixed stop pattern derived in the special game, it determines the change pattern by performing a change pattern determination lottery based on the value of the change pattern random number specified from the acquired random number information. At this time, when the main control CPU41a determines a big win pattern as the fixed stop pattern, it determines the change pattern from the big win change pattern. When the main control CPU41a determines a special win pattern as the fixed stop pattern, it determines the change pattern from the special win change pattern. When the main control CPU41a determines a losing pattern as the fixed stop pattern, it determines the change pattern from the losing change pattern. Then, when the main control CPU41a determines the change pattern, it ends the special pattern start process.

[0094] When the special symbol start process is completed, the main control CPU41a executes a special game by performing a process other than the special symbol start process. Specifically, the main control CPU41a controls the display content of the information display device 13 so as to start the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The main control CPU41a 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 CPU41a also sets information (hereinafter referred to as a variation pattern designation command) that designates a variation pattern and instructs the start of a performance game in the output buffer. The main control CPU41a also measures the variation time determined for the variation pattern determined in the special symbol start process. Then, the main control CPU41a controls the information display device 13 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 for the change pattern determined in the special symbol start process has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a sets information for deriving a combination of performance symbols (hereinafter, referred to as an all symbol stop command) in the output buffer. With the above-mentioned control, the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a change game in which symbols are changed.

[0095] Next, a special win process for generating a special win game performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described. In this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a executes the special win process to realize a special game control means for generating a special game.

[0096] The main control CPU41a performs special winning processing after the special game of the special winning is finished. In the special winning processing, the main control CPU41a performs control according to the type of the special winning that has been won, thereby generating a special winning game based on the special winning that has been won. As a result, in this embodiment, when the result of the special winning lottery is a special winning, a special winning game is generated.

[0097] First, the main control CPU41a starts measuring the opening time in the special feature game, and generates information capable of identifying the start of the special feature game in the special winning game (hereinafter, referred to as a special feature game start command) and sets it in the output buffer.

[0098] When the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU41a starts the opening game by controlling the second solenoid SL2 to open the first large winning port 18 based on an operation pattern according to the type of special win. At this time, the main control CPU41a controls to start a detection effective period in which the detection of the game ball by the specific passing sensor SE5 is effective with the start of the opening game. Also, at this time, the main control CPU41a generates information capable of identifying the start of the opening game (hereinafter, opening start command) and sets it in the output buffer. Furthermore, in the special winning process, the main control CPU41a controls the fourth solenoid SL4 to operate the distribution shutter 28 based on a predetermined operation pattern during the special winning game.

[0099] Thereafter, when the first opening end condition or the second opening end condition is satisfied, the main control CPU41a controls the second solenoid SL2 to close the first large winning opening 18, thereby ending the opening game. At this time, the main control CPU41a controls to end the detection effective period with the end of the opening game. Also, at this time, the main control CPU41a generates information capable of identifying the end of the opening game (hereinafter, the opening end command) and sets it in the output buffer. Next, the main control CPU41a starts measuring the ending time in the special feature game. Then, when the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU41a generates information capable of identifying the end of the special feature game in the special winning game (hereinafter, the special feature game end command) and sets it in the output buffer.

[0100] In addition, if the operation of the distribution shutter 28 based on a predetermined operation pattern has not ended at the end of the reel play, the main control CPU 41a controls the fourth solenoid SL4 to end the operation of the distribution shutter 28 upon the end of the reel play.

[0101] Then, in the case where the game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during the effective detection period in the role play, the main control CPU41a performs the jackpot process described later after the role play ends. In this embodiment, the main control CPU41a performs the jackpot process after the role play ends, thereby realizing a bonus granting means for granting a bonus. In this embodiment, the jackpot game based on the role win corresponds to a bonus that is granted on the condition that the game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the role play in the special win game. After that, the main control CPU41a ends the special win process with the end of the jackpot process. On the other hand, in the case where the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the role play, the main control CPU41a ends the special win process without performing the jackpot process.

[0102] Furthermore, when a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the effective detection period, the main control CPU 41a outputs a detection enable command to the sub-control board 50. On the other hand, when a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 outside the effective detection period, the main control CPU 41a outputs a detection disable command to the sub-control board 50.

[0103] Next, a big win process for generating a big win game performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described. When the game ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 in the special winning game, the main control CPU 41a performs the big win process after the special winning game ends. Also, the main control CPU 41a performs the special winning process after the special game of the big win ends.

[0104] In the jackpot process, the main control CPU41a starts measuring the opening time, and generates information capable of identifying the start of the jackpot game (hereinafter, referred to as a jackpot game start command) and sets it in the output buffer. When the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU41a performs a process for executing a round game. Specifically, the main control CPU41a controls the third solenoid SL3 so that the second large prize winning hole 20 is opened based on a predetermined opening pattern, and starts the round game. Then, after starting the round game, when the first round end condition or the second round end condition is established, the main control CPU41a controls the third solenoid SL3 so that the second large prize winning hole 20 is closed, and ends the round game. The main control CPU41a repeats such a process for executing the round game until the upper limit number of round games is ended. In addition, the main control CPU41a generates information capable of identifying the start of the round game (hereinafter, referred to as a round start command) and sets it in the output buffer every time the round game is started. Furthermore, the main control CPU 41a generates information capable of identifying the end of a round of game (hereinafter, referred to as a round end command) every time a round of game ends, and sets the information in an output buffer.

[0105] When the final round of play ends, the main control CPU41a starts measuring the ending time. Then, when the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU41a generates information that can specify the end of the big win game (hereinafter, the big win game end command) and sets it in the output buffer. After that, the main control CPU41a ends the big win process.

[0106] In this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a executes special win processing and big win processing, thereby realizing a special game control means for generating a special game. Next, the processing related to the game state performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described.

[0107] The main control CPU41a can control the game state by setting a predetermined value to the operation flag stored in the main control RAM41c. Specifically, the main control CPU41a controls the game state to the non-time-shortened state by setting the operation flag to a value that can identify the non-time-shortened state. The main control CPU41a controls the game state to the time-shortened state by setting the operation flag to a value that can identify the time-shortened state. In addition, when the main control CPU41a updates the value of the operation flag, it outputs a game state command that can identify the current game state to the sub-control board 50.

[0108] When the main control CPU41a ends a jackpot game, it updates the value of the operation flag according to the type of the jackpot game. As a result, the main control CPU41a can control to a time-shortening state when the jackpot game ends. Specifically, when the main control CPU41a ends each of the jackpot games ZA, ZB, Za to Zd, it sets the operation flag to a value that can specify the time-shortening state. That is, when the main control CPU41a ends each of the jackpot games ZA, ZB, Za to Zd, it controls to a time-shortening state after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, when the main control CPU41a ends each of the jackpot games ZC and Ze, it does not update the value of the operation flag. In this embodiment, the jackpot game is controlled to a non-time-shortening state. That is, when the main control CPU 41a ends each of the jackpot games ZC and Ze, it continues to control the game to the non-time-shortening state even after the jackpot games end.

[0109] In addition, when the main control CPU41a is in the time-saving state, the main control CPU41a sets the operation flag to a value that can specify a non-time-saving state when a special winning symbol is derived in a special game. This allows the main control CPU41a to control the time-saving state to end when a special winning end condition is met.

[0110] In addition, when starting a big win game, the main control CPU 41a sets a value that can specify a non-time-saving state to the operation flag. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the end of the time-saving state when the big win end condition is met.

[0111] In addition, the main control CPU 41a sets the activation flag to a value that can specify a non-time-saving state when a predetermined number of special games have been played since the time-saving state was entered. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the time-saving state to end when the number-ending condition is met.

[0112] In addition, the main control CPU41a sets a value that can identify the non-time-saving state to the operation flag in the RAM clear process. In other words, the main control CPU41a initializes the value of the operation flag in the RAM clear process. This allows the main control CPU41a to control the end of the time-saving state when the initialization end condition is met.

[0113] Next, the normal symbol input process performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described. In the normal symbol input process, when the main control CPU41a receives a detection signal from the gate sensor SE6 and the normal reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU41a adds 1 to the normal reserved number stored in the main control RAM41c to update it, and controls the normal reserved display unit 13f to display the updated normal reserved number. After that, the main control CPU41a acquires a random number generated in the main control board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main control RAM41c. In this case, the main control CPU41a stores the random number information for the normal game and the storage order of the random number information so that it can be specified. For example, the random number is a normal winning random number used for normal winning judgment (normal lottery). After that, the main control CPU41a ends the normal symbol input process.

[0114] Next, the normal symbol start process performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described. In the normal symbol start process, when the normal winning game is not being played and the normal game is not being executed, and the normal reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c is 1 or more, the main control CPU 41a subtracts 1 from the normal reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c to update it. Also, at this time, the main control CPU 41a controls the normal reserved display unit 13f so that the updated normal reserved number is displayed. Next, the main control CPU 41a reads out the random number information stored first among the random number information for the normal game from the main control RAM 41c, and performs a normal lottery based on the read random number information. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a performs a normal lottery by determining whether the value of the normal winning random number matches the normal winning judgment value stored in the main control ROM 41b. At this time, the main control CPU 41a performs a normal lottery using a normal winning judgment value that differs depending on the current game state. For example, in this embodiment, the normal win determination value is assigned to each game state so that when a non-specific game state is in effect, a normal win will not be won regardless of the value of the normal win random number, whereas when a specific game state is in effect, a normal win will be won regardless of the value of the normal win random number.

[0115] Next, the main control CPU41a determines the normal symbol to be derived in the normal game and the fluctuation time of the normal game. After that, the main control CPU41a ends the normal symbol start process. At this time, the main control CPU41a may determine a shorter time as the fluctuation time of the normal game in the specific game state compared to the non-specific game state (or may easily determine a shorter time as the fluctuation time of the normal game).

[0116] Then, the main control CPU41a executes a normal game by performing a process other than the normal symbol start process. Specifically, the main control CPU41a starts the normal game and controls the information display device 13 so that the normal symbol determined in the normal symbol start process is output when the variable time determined in the normal symbol start process has elapsed.

[0117] Next, the normal win process performed by the main control CPU41a will be described. When the normal game of the normal win ends, the main control CPU41a executes the normal win process. In the normal win process, the main control CPU41a controls the first solenoid SL1 to operate the normal movable piece 16 to the second operating state in an operating mode determined for the normal symbol (type of normal win), thereby generating a normal win game.

[0118] Through such normal pattern input processing, normal pattern start processing, and normal winning processing, the main control CPU 41a operates the normal movable piece 16 so that when the time-saving state is in effect, it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the second start winning hole 15 compared to when the time-saving state is not in effect.

[0119] In addition to the above-mentioned processes, the main control CPU 41a also performs various other processes. For example, when the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from each sensor, the main control CPU 41a generates information indicating that the detection signal has been received and sets the information in the output buffer. For example, when the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the first start winning sensor SE1, the main control CPU 41a generates a first ball entry command indicating that the game ball has entered the first start winning port 14 and sets the first ball entry command in the output buffer. When the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the second start winning sensor SE2, the main control CPU 41a generates a second ball entry command indicating that the game ball has entered the second start winning port 15 and sets the second ball entry command in the output buffer.

[0120] In addition, when the main control CPU41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the first count sensor SE3, it generates a first large prize command indicating that the game ball has entered the first large prize opening 18 and sets it in the output buffer. When the main control CPU41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the second count sensor SE4, it generates a second large prize command indicating that the game ball has entered the second large prize opening 20 and sets it in the output buffer. When the main control CPU41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the specific passage sensor SE5, it generates a specific passage command indicating that the game ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 has passed through a specific area in the first passage 26a and sets it in the output buffer. When the main control CPU41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the gate sensor SE6, it generates a gate passage command indicating that the game ball has passed through the gate 23 and sets it in the output buffer.

[0121] In addition, the main control CPU 41a performs control to award a predetermined number of prize balls when the awarding condition for the prize balls is satisfied. In this specification, the control to award prize balls is not limited to the control to actually pay out game balls to the outside of the machine, but is intended to include, for example, the control to update (add) the number of balls held by a player stored as data in the pachinko game machine 10 or an external device separate from the pachinko game machine 10.

[0122] Next, various processes performed by the sub-control CPU 50a will be described. When a control signal is input from the main control CPU 41a, the sub-control CPU 50a executes various processes in response to the control signal.

[0123] First, the sub-control initial setting process executed by the sub-control CPU 50a in response to input of a RAM clear command will be described. In the sub-control initial setting process, the sub-control CPU 50a sets predetermined initial values ​​in various storage areas in the sub-control RAM 50c. Next, the sub-control CPU 50a controls various presentations to be executable based on the storage contents set in the sub-control initial setting process. After that, the sub-control CPU 50a ends the sub-control initial setting process and waits until a predetermined command is input from the main control CPU 41a. In this embodiment, the predetermined command is, for example, a variation pattern designation command, a role play start command, an opening start command, an opening end command, a role play end command, a jackpot play start command, a round start command, a round end command, a jackpot play end command, a standby state command, etc.

[0124] Next, the secondary control return processing executed by the secondary control CPU 50a upon input of a return command will be described. In the sub-control return process, the sub-control CPU 50a waits until a return information command is input. When the return information command is input, the sub-control CPU 50a sets values ​​corresponding to information specified from the return information command in various storage areas in the sub-control RAM 50c. Next, the sub-control CPU 50a controls various performances to a state in which they can be executed based on the storage contents set in the sub-control return process. After that, the sub-control CPU 50a ends the sub-control return process and waits until a predetermined command is input from the main control CPU 41a.

[0125] Next, the effect symbol variation process for executing the effect game will be described. When the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a special symbol designation command and a variable pattern designation command, it controls the effect display device 12 to execute an effect game corresponding to the special game by starting the variable display of the effect symbols. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a special symbol designation command, it determines a combination of effect symbols to be derived in the effect game based on the type of special symbol designated by the input special symbol designation command.

[0126] Specifically, when a special symbol classified as a big win symbol is specified, the sub-control CPU 50a determines a symbol combination for a big win based on the performance symbols. When a special symbol classified as a special win symbol is specified, the sub-control CPU 50a determines a symbol combination for a special win based on the performance symbols. When a special symbol classified as a lose symbol is specified, the sub-control CPU 50a determines a symbol combination for a lose based on the performance symbols.

[0127] Also, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a variation pattern designation command, it determines the effect to be executed during the execution of the effect game based on the variation pattern designated by the input variation pattern designation command. After that, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to start the variable display of the effect symbols of each symbol row. That is, the sub-control CPU 50a starts the effect game. Specifically, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to variably display three columns of effect symbols. Also, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the execution of various effects that have been determined to be executed. Next, when a predetermined timing arrives after starting the effect game, the sub-control CPU 50a temporarily stops and displays the effect symbols of each symbol row, and then, upon input of the all symbol stop command, causes the effect symbols of each symbol row to be fixed and stopped and displayed. In addition, the sub-control CPU 50a 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.

[0128] Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the performance display device 12 to end the performance game by ending the fixed stop display of the performance symbol when the fixed stop time of the special symbol has elapsed.

[0129] Next, processing related to the game state will be described. When the sub-control CPU 50a receives a game status command from the main control CPU 41a, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value capable of identifying a game status identified from the received game status command in the sub-operation flag of the sub-control RAM 50c. This allows the sub-control CPU 50a to identify the current game status.

[0130] Next, the presentation mode in this embodiment will be described. The pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment has a plurality of presentation modes that define various presentation aspects. The various presentation aspects include, for example, the types of presentations that can be executed, the execution probability of the presentations, and the types of images displayed in the presentations.

[0131] The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment has three types of presentation modes: a normal mode, a special mode, and a bonus mode. The normal mode and the special mode are presentation modes when the current game state is not in the time-saving state. Of these, the special mode is a presentation mode that is controlled only when the current game state is not in the time-saving state and from the time-saving state ends until a specific number of special games are finished. On the other hand, the normal mode is a presentation mode that is controlled when the current game state is not in the time-saving state and from the time-saving state ends until a specific number of special games are finished. And the special mode is a presentation mode when the current game state is in the time-saving state.

[0132] In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a identifies the current game state based on the value of the sub-operation flag stored in the sub-control RAM 50c, and controls to a presentation mode according to the identified content. That is, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to one of a plurality of presentation modes according to the current game state. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value indicating a predetermined presentation mode in the mode flag stored in the sub-control RAM 50c. Then, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to a predetermined presentation mode by executing various presentations based on the value stored in the mode flag. Thus, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a functions as a mode control means that performs control regarding the presentation mode.

[0133] Furthermore, when the sub-control CPU 50a determines that the time-saving state has ended by inputting a game state command, it stores a value that can identify the special mode in the mode flag. Then, while controlling the special mode, the sub-control CPU 50a counts the number of special games executed in the special mode by updating the value of a specific number counter in the sub-control RAM 50c every time a special game is executed. Then, when the number of special games executed in the special mode reaches a specific number, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value that can identify the normal mode in the mode flag. On the other hand, when the number of special games executed in the special mode does not reach a specific number and the time-saving state is controlled, the sub-control CPU 50a erases (initializes) the value of the specific number counter. As a result, the sub-control CPU 50a can control the special mode only from the time-saving state to the end of the specific number of special games.

[0134] In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a does not control any of the presentation modes during the special win game and the big win game. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a may erase the value of the mode flag during the special win game and the big win game.

[0135] Next, the transition of the game state and the presentation mode will be explained together with the control of the main control CPU41a and the sub control CPU50a. In this explanation, the situation that does not occur or is difficult to occur when the game is normally played will not be considered. That is, in this explanation, the situation in which the game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning game when the special winning Ze is won will not be considered. In addition, in this explanation, the situation in which the special winning Za to Ze is won in the non-time-saving state in which the left hit is recommended as the game state, and the situation in which the jackpot ZB, ZC is won in the time-saving state in which the right hit is recommended as the game state will not be considered.

[0136] First, the transition patterns of the game state and presentation mode when the current game state is not in the time-saving state will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, when the main control CPU41a wins a jackpot ZA or ZB during the non-time-shortening state, the sub-control CPU50a controls the mode to the time-shortening state after the jackpot game ends. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU50a wins a jackpot ZA or ZB during the normal mode or the special mode, the sub-control CPU50a controls the mode to the special mode after the jackpot game ends. Also, when the main control CPU41a wins a jackpot ZC during the non-time-shortening state, the sub-control CPU50a controls the mode to the non-time-shortening state even after the jackpot game ends. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU50a wins a jackpot ZC during the normal mode, the sub-control CPU50a controls the mode to the normal mode even after the jackpot game ends, while when the sub-control CPU50a wins a jackpot ZC during the special mode, the sub-control CPU50a controls the mode to the special mode even after the jackpot game ends. Also, when the value of the specific number of times counter in the sub-control RAM50c reaches a specific number of times during the special mode, the sub-control CPU50a controls the mode to the normal mode.

[0137] Next, the transition patterns of the game state and presentation mode when the current game state is the time-saving state will be described. When the main control CPU41a wins the jackpot ZA during the time-saving state, the sub-control CPU50a controls the state to the time-saving state even after the jackpot game ends. Therefore, when the main control CPU41a wins the jackpot ZA during the special mode, the sub-control CPU50a controls the state to the special mode even after the jackpot game ends. Also, when the main control CPU41a wins the special wins Za to Zd during the time-saving state and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special win game, the sub-control CPU50a controls the state to the time-saving game state after the jackpot game ends. At this time, the sub-control CPU50a controls the state to the special mode even after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, when the main control CPU41a wins the special wins Za to Zd during the time-saving state and the game ball does not pass through a specific area in the special win game, the main control CPU41a controls the state to the non-time-saving game state after the special win game ends without generating the jackpot game. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the special mode after the special winning game ends.

[0138] In addition, when the main control CPU41a wins the special win Ze during the time-saving state, regardless of whether the game ball passes through the specific area in the special win game, the main control CPU41a controls the game to a non-time-saving game state after the special win game ends. At this time, the sub-control CPU50a controls the game to a special mode after the special win game ends. Therefore, in this embodiment, regardless of the type of special win, if the game ball is not detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 in the special win game, the game is controlled to a normal mode after the special win game ends.

[0139] In addition, the main control CPU41a controls the time-saving state to end when the special game of the number of times of operation is ended without winning the special prize after being controlled to the time-saving state. At this time, the sub-control CPU50a controls the special mode with the end of the time-saving state.

[0140] In addition, in this embodiment, regardless of whether the game state is the non-time-saving state or the time-saving state, when the RAM clear process is performed, the game state transitions to the non-time-saving state. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the normal mode. That is, in this embodiment, when the RAM clear process is performed with the start of the power supply to the pachinko game machine 10, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the normal mode. In this embodiment, the normal mode corresponds to the specific presentation mode.

[0141] The effects in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described below together with the control by the sub-control CPU 50a. First, the firing notification effects that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described.

[0142] As shown in Figures 6(a) to (k), the launch notification effect of this embodiment includes a right-hit notification effect that encourages the launch of the game ball toward the right-side region R2a. In other words, the right-hit notification effect is a launch notification effect that encourages the game ball to be hit to the right. In this embodiment, the right-hit notification effect corresponds to a specific launch notification that encourages the game ball to be launched toward the right-side region R2a. In the right-hit notification effect of this embodiment, a right-hit notification image G1 that encourages the game ball to be hit to the right is displayed on the image display unit GH of the effect display device 12. The right-hit notification image G1 is, for example, an image that imitates the character string "right hit →".

[0143] The sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute the right-hit notification effect during the time-saving state. That is, the right-hit notification effect of this embodiment can be executed during the time-saving state. The sub-control CPU 50a also controls the effect display device 12 to execute the right-hit notification effect during special win play and big win play. That is, the right-hit notification effect of this embodiment can also be executed during special win play and big win play. On the other hand, the sub-control CPU 50a controls not to execute the right-hit notification effect during the non-time-saving state and neither special win play nor big win play. That is, the right-hit notification effect of this embodiment is not executed during the non-time-saving state. Thus, in this embodiment, the effect display device 12 can execute the right-hit notification effect during the special mode, but does not execute the right-hit notification effect during the normal mode and the special mode.

[0144] Next, a specific firing promotion effect that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in Fig. 6(a), the specific launch promotion effect of this embodiment is an effect that encourages the player to launch the game ball aiming at a specific area within the first large winning opening 18. In the specific launch promotion effect of this embodiment, a specific launch promotion image G2 that encourages the player to launch the game ball into a specific area within the first large winning opening 18 is displayed on the image display unit GH of the effect display device 12. The specific launch promotion image G2 is, for example, an image that imitates the character string "Aim for V →".

[0145] The sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to start a specific launch promotion effect when a special feature game start command is input, which indicates the start of the feature game in the special win game. The sub-control CPU 50a also controls the effect display device 12 to end the specific launch promotion effect when a special feature game end command is input, which indicates the end of the open game in the special win game. That is, the specific launch promotion effect of this embodiment can be executed from the start of the feature game in the special win game to the end of the open game in the feature game.

[0146] Next, the detection validity notification effect, the continuation notification effect, and the bonus notification effect that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 6(b), the detection validity notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the game ball has been detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 within the detection validity period in a special winning game. In other words, the detection validity notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the game ball has passed through a specific area in the first large winning opening 18 within the detection validity period in a special winning game. That is, in this embodiment, the detection validity notification effect corresponds to a specific notification that notifies that the game ball has passed through a specific area in a special winning game. In the detection validity notification effect of this embodiment, a detection validity image G3 indicating that the game ball has passed through a specific area in the first large winning opening 18 within the detection validity period is displayed on the image display unit GH of the effect display device 12. The detection validity image G3 is, for example, an image imitating the letter "V".

[0147] Next, the continuation notification effects that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 6(c), the continuation notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the time-saving state will continue. In other words, the continuation notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the special mode will continue. In the continuation notification effect of this embodiment, a continuation notification image G4 indicating that the time-saving state will continue is displayed on the image display unit GH of the effect display device 12. The continuation notification image G4 is, for example, an image imitating the string of characters "RUSH continues."

[0148] Next, the bonus notification effects that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 6(d) to (k), the bonus notification effect of this embodiment is an effect showing the number of game balls that can be acquired in a special winning game. In particular, the bonus notification effect of this embodiment is an effect showing the number of game balls that can be acquired in a jackpot game when a jackpot game occurs triggered by a game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during the detection effective period in a special winning game. That is, in this embodiment, the bonus notification effect corresponds to a special notification regarding the number of game balls acquired. In addition, since the bonus notification effect of this embodiment is an effect showing the number of game balls that can be acquired in a jackpot game, it can also be understood as a special notification regarding the player's profit. In the bonus notification effect of this embodiment, a bonus notification image G5 showing the number of game balls that can be acquired in a special winning game is displayed on the image display unit GH of the effect display device 12. The bonus notification image G5 is, for example, an image imitating a character string showing the number of game balls that can be acquired in a special winning game.

[0149] Specifically, in the bonus notification effect of this embodiment, the bonus notification image G5 is displayed in a manner in which the number of game balls that can be acquired in the special winning game is displayed in order from the ones digit. For example, when the special winning Zc is won, the bonus notification image G5 is displayed in a manner in which "0" is displayed as the ones digit first (FIG. 6(d)), then "0" is displayed as the tens digit (FIG. 6(e)), and finally "9" is displayed as the hundreds digit (FIG. 6(f)). Also, when the special winning Zb is won, the bonus notification image G5 is displayed in a manner in which "0" is displayed as the ones digit first (FIG. 6(d)), then "0" is displayed as the tens digit (FIG. 6(e)), then "2" is displayed as the hundreds digit (FIG. 6(g)), and finally "1" is displayed as the thousands digit (FIG. 6(h)). In addition, if the special win Za is won, the bonus notification image G5 is displayed in the following manner: first, "0" is displayed as the ones digit (Figure 6(d)), then "0" is displayed as the tens digit (Figure 6(e)), then "5" is displayed as the hundreds digit (Figure 6(i)), and finally "1" is displayed as the thousands digit (Figure 6(j)).

[0150] Furthermore, when the special win Za is won, in the bonus notification performance, after the display of the bonus notification image G5 is ended, a bonus highlighting image G6 that highlights the number of game balls that can be acquired in the special win game is displayed.

[0151] As shown in Figure 7, the sub-control CPU 50a of this embodiment executes a specific detection process when a game ball is detected by a specific passing sensor SE5 within the effective detection period, and thereby determines whether to execute each of the following effects: a detection valid notification effect, a continuation notification effect, and a bonus notification effect.

[0152] First, in the specific detection process, the sub-control CPU 50a decides to execute the detection effective notification effect (step Sa1). Next, the sub-control CPU 50a judges whether the current special win game is a special win game based on any of the special wins Za to Zc (step Sa2). If it is a special win game based on any of the special wins Za to Zc (step Sa2: YES), the sub-control CPU 50a decides to execute the special notification effect (step Sa3). Next, the sub-control CPU 50a decides the content of the special notification effect according to the type of special win (step Sa4). Next, the sub-control CPU 50a decides to execute the continuous notification effect (step Sa5). After that, the sub-control CPU 50a ends the specific detection process.

[0153] Also, if the current special win game is not a special win game based on any of the special wins Za to Zc (step Sa2: NO), the sub-control CPU 50a judges whether the current special win game is a special win game based on the special win Zd (step Sa6). If it is a special win game based on the special win Zd (step Sa7: YES), the sub-control CPU 50a decides to execute the continuation notification effect (step Sa5). After that, the sub-control CPU 50a ends the specific detection process. On the other hand, if the special win game is not based on the special win Zd (step Sa7: NO), the sub-control CPU 50a ends the specific detection process without deciding to execute the continuation notification effect.

[0154] Then, the sub-control CPU50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute various effects determined to be executed in the specific detection process in a process separate from the specific detection process. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU50a determines to execute a detection effective notification effect in the specific detection process, it controls to execute the detection effective notification effect for a predetermined period during the ending time in the role play. This allows the sub-control CPU50a to control to execute a detection effective notification effect when a game ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 in a special winning game. In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU50a controls to execute a detection effective notification effect when a game ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 within the detection effective period in a special winning game, regardless of the type of special winning. In other words, in this embodiment, regardless of whether the game ball is a special winning game Za to Zd in which the game ball can pass through a specific area, or a special winning game Ze in which the game ball has difficulty passing through a specific area compared to the special winning games Za to Zd, when the game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5, control is possible to execute a detection valid notification presentation.

[0155] In addition, when the sub-control CPU 50a determines to execute a special notification effect by the specific detection process, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the special notification effect to be executed during the ending time of the role play. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a executes each effect so that the period during which the detection validity notification effect is executed and the period during which the special notification effect is executed overlap in part. Specifically, after starting the detection validity notification effect, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the special notification effect to be started during the execution of the detection validity notification effect. That is, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a can control the special notification effect to be executed during the execution of the detection validity notification effect.

[0156] Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a changes the end timing of the bonus notification effect depending on the effect content of the bonus notification effect determined in the specific detection process. In other words, the sub-control CPU 50a changes the end timing of the bonus notification effect depending on the type of special win. For example, in the case of a special win Za, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to end the display of the bonus notification image G5 and display the bonus highlight image G6 with the end of the detection validity notification effect. After that, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the bonus notification effect to end at a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since the bonus highlight image G6 was displayed. On the other hand, in the case of a special win Zb or Zc, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the bonus notification effect to end with the end of the detection validity notification effect.

[0157] 6(d)-(j), when the display area displaying the detection validity notification effect and the display area displaying the bonus notification image G5 overlap during a period in which both the detection validity notification effect and the bonus notification effect are executed, the effect display device 12 displays each image in such a manner that the bonus notification image G5 is superimposed on the player side of the detection validity notification image G3. That is, in this embodiment, it can be said that the effect display device 12 can execute the bonus notification effect with priority over the detection validity notification effect.

[0158] In addition, when the sub-control CPU 50a determines to execute a continuation notification effect by the specific detection process, it controls the execution of the continuation notification effect during the ending time of the role play. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a executes each effect so that the period during which the detection validity notification effect and the special benefit notification effect are executed do not overlap with the period during which the continuation notification effect is executed. Specifically, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the continuation notification effect to start after both the detection validity notification effect and the special benefit notification effect are ended during the ending time of the role play.

[0159] Next, a description will be given of the non-passage notification effect that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment. 8(a) and (b), the non-pass notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the game ball has not been detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during the effective detection period in the special winning game. In other words, the non-pass notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the game ball has not passed through a specific area in the first large winning opening 18 during the effective detection period in the special winning game. In this embodiment, the non-pass notification effect corresponds to a non-pass notification that notifies that the game ball has not passed through the specific area.

[0160] The non-passing notification effect of this embodiment is executed in different presentation modes depending on the time that has elapsed since the special winning game was started. In other words, the non-passing notification effect of this embodiment is an effect in which the notification mode changes with the passage of time. Specifically, the non-passing notification effect of this embodiment is executed in the first mode when the first specified time has elapsed since the special winning game was started but the second specified time has not elapsed (FIG. 8(a)). Also, the non-passing notification effect of this embodiment is executed in the second mode when the second specified time has elapsed since the special winning game was started (FIG. 8(b)). In this embodiment, the first specified time is a time that is shorter than the time from the start of the special winning game to the end of the detection effective period. Also, in this embodiment, the second specified time is a time that is shorter than the time from the start of the special winning game to the end of the detection effective period and is longer than the first specified time. In this embodiment, the first specified time corresponds to the first time.

[0161] For example, the first mode of the non-passing notification performance is a mode in which a first non-passing notification image G7 indicating that the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during the special winning game is displayed on the image display unit GH of the performance display device 12. The first non-passing notification image G7 is, for example, an image imitating the character string "Caution! V Not Passed". Also, for example, the second mode of the non-passing notification performance is a mode in which, in addition to the first non-passing notification image G7 indicating that the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during the special winning game, a second non-passing notification image G8 indicating the remaining time until the opening game in the special winning game is completed is displayed on the image display unit GH of the performance display device 12. The second non-passing notification image G8 is, for example, an image imitating the character string "XX:XX remaining" indicating the remaining time until the opening game in the special winning game is completed.

[0162] The sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute the non-passage notification effect in the first mode when a first specified time has elapsed since the start of the special winning game Za to Zd without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5. The sub-control CPU 50a also controls the effect display device 12 to change the presentation mode of the non-passage notification effect from the first mode to the second mode when a second specified time has elapsed since the start of the special winning game without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5. After that, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to end the non-passage notification effect when the detection effective period ends with the end of the opening game in the role game. As a result, the effect display device 12 can execute the non-passage notification effect from a predetermined timing during the opening game of the role game until the opening game of the role game ends.

[0163] On the other hand, when the special winning game Ze occurs, the sub-control CPU 50a does not execute the non-passing notification effect even when the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 and the first specified time has elapsed since the special winning game was started. In other words, in this embodiment, the non-passing notification effect is not executed when the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game Ze and the first specified time has elapsed since the special winning game was started. That is, in this embodiment, the non-passing notification effect can be executed when the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the first specified time after the special winning game Ze is started, while the non-passing notification effect is not executed when the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the first specified time after the special winning game Ze is started.

[0164] Next, a non-passage notification effect that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 9(a), the non-passing notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the detection effective period has ended without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game. In other words, the non-passing notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the detection effective period has ended without the game ball passing through the specific area in the first large winning port 18 in the special winning game. In this embodiment, the non-passing notification effect corresponds to a non-passing notification that notifies that the game ball has not passed through the specific area. In this embodiment, if the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the detection effective period in the special winning game, the game is controlled to a non-time-saving state after the special winning game ends. Therefore, in this embodiment, the non-passing notification effect can also be understood as a transition notification effect that notifies that the game ball will transition to a non-time-saving state.

[0165] In the non-passing notification effect of this embodiment, a non-passing notification image G9 indicating that the detection effective period has ended without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game is displayed on the image display unit GH of the effect display device 12. The non-passing notification image G9 is, for example, an image imitating the characters "V passing failure...".

[0166] The sub-control CPU50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute a non-passing notification effect when the detection effective period ends without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning games Za to Zd. After that, the sub-control CPU50a controls the effect display device 12 to end the non-passing notification effect at a predetermined timing during the ending time of the special winning game. That is, the non-passing notification effect of this embodiment is executed during a part of the ending time of the special winning game when the detection effective period ends without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning games Za to Zd. In other words, the non-passing notification effect is an effect that can be executed when the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the time from the start of the special winning games Za to Zd to the end of the detection effective period. In this embodiment, the time from the start of the special winning game to the end of the detection effective period corresponds to the second time and the specific period.

[0167] On the other hand, when the special winning game Ze occurs, the sub-control CPU 50a does not execute the non-passing notification effect even when the detection effective period ends without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5. That is, in this embodiment, in the special winning games Za to Zd, when the detection effective period ends without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5, the non-passing notification effect can be executed, whereas when the detection effective period ends without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 at the start of the special winning game Ze, the non-passing notification effect is not executed.

[0168] Next, a detection invalid notification effect that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 9(b), the detection invalid notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the game ball has been detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 outside the detection valid period in the special winning game. In other words, the detection invalid notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the game ball has passed through a specific area in the first large winning opening 18 outside the detection valid period in the special winning game. That is, in this embodiment, the detection invalid notification effect corresponds to a specific notification that notifies that the game ball has passed through a specific area in the special winning game. In the detection invalid notification effect of this embodiment, a detection invalid image G10 indicating that the game ball has passed through a specific area in the first large winning opening 18 outside the detection valid period is displayed on the image display unit GH of the effect display device 12. The detection invalid image G10 is, for example, an image imitating the character string "V Passage Invalid".

[0169] The sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute a detection invalid notification effect when a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 outside the detection valid period. That is, in this embodiment, the detection invalid notification effect is an effect that can be executed when a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 outside the detection valid period.

[0170] Next, the end notification effects that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in Fig. 10, the end notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the time-saving state is ending. In other words, the end notification effect of this embodiment is an effect indicating that the special mode is ending. In the end notification effect of this embodiment, an end notification image G11 indicating that the time-saving state is ending is displayed on the image display unit GH of the effect display device 12. The end notification image G11 is, for example, an image imitating the character string "RUSH End".

[0171] When the special win Za to Zd is won and the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the detection effective period in the special win game, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute the end notification effect after the non-passing notification effect ends during the ending time in the role game. After that, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to end the non-passing notification effect with the end of the special win game.

[0172] In addition, when the special win Ze is won and the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the detection effective period in the special win game, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute the end notification effect during the ending time of the special win game. On the other hand, when the special win Ze is won and the game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the detection effective period in the special win game, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute the end notification effect during the ending time in the big win game based on the special win Ze. After that, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to end the non-passing notification effect with the end of the special win game. That is, in this embodiment, the end notification effect is an effect that can be executed during the ending time of the special win game or the big win game in the special win game.

[0173] The following describes the flow of various presentations when a special winning game occurs. First, a specific example of the flow of various presentations when a gaming ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 within the effective detection period in a special winning game will be described.

[0174] As shown in FIG. 11(a), in this example, a special game is started during the time-saving state at time t0, and a special winning game is generated after a special winning symbol is derived in the special game (time t1). In this case, a detection effective period is set with the start of an opening game in a special winning game (time t2~). In this example, a big winning game is generated after the special winning game ends (time t7) when a game ball is detected by a specific passing sensor SE5 during the detection effective period in the special winning game (time t3). In this case, the detection of the game ball by the specific passing sensor SE5 is the trigger for the end of the opening game in the special winning game, and the detection effective period ends (time t3). During this time, in the performance display device 12, a right-hit notification performance is executed (time t0~), and a specific launch promotion performance is executed over the period from the start of the special winning game to the end of the opening game in the special winning game (time t1~t3).

[0175] As shown in FIG. 11(b), when the special win Za is won and a special win game is generated, the performance display device 12 ends the opening game in the role play triggered by the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5, and starts the detection validity notification performance triggered by the ending time of the role play (time t3). Next, the performance display device 12 starts the special notification performance after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the detection validity notification performance (time t4). After that, the performance display device 12 ends the detection validity notification performance at a predetermined timing in the ending time of the role play (time t5). Furthermore, the performance display device 12 ends the special notification performance after a predetermined time has elapsed since the end of the detection validity notification performance, and starts the continuation notification performance (time t6). Then, the performance display device 12 ends the continuation notification performance with the end of the ending time of the role play (time t7).

[0176] As shown in FIG. 11(c), when the special win Zb, Zc is won and a special win game is generated, the effect display device 12 starts the detection validity notification effect in the same manner as when the special win Za is won (time t3), and starts the special notification effect after a predetermined time has elapsed since the detection validity notification effect started (time t4). Then, when the special win Zb, Zc is won, the effect display device 12 ends the detection validity notification effect at a predetermined timing in the ending time of the role play, and the special notification effect ends with the end of the detection validity notification effect, and starts the continuation notification effect (time t5). After that, the effect display device 12 ends the continuation notification effect with the end of the ending time of the role play (time t7).

[0177] As shown in FIG. 11(d), when the special win Zd is won and a special win game is generated, the performance display device 12 starts a detection valid notification performance in the same manner as when the special win Za is won (time t3). On the other hand, when the special win Zd is won and a special win game is generated, the performance display device 12 does not execute a bonus notification performance. Then, when the special win Zd is won, the performance display device 12 ends the detection valid notification performance at a predetermined timing in the ending time of the role play and starts a continuation notification performance (time t5). After that, the performance display device 12 ends the continuation notification performance with the end of the ending time of the role play (time t7).

[0178] In this manner, in the present embodiment, the period during which the detection validity notification effect is executed and the period during which the special notification effect is executed may be partially different. In particular, when the special win Za is won, the effect display device 12 can execute the special notification effect even after the detection validity notification effect has ended.

[0179] In addition, in this embodiment, the detection validity notification effect and the bonus notification effect are executed during the execution of the right-hit notification effect. In other words, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a can control the right-hit notification effect to be executed during the execution of the detection validity notification effect and the bonus notification effect. In this embodiment, the right-hit notification effect is executed in the same manner regardless of whether other effects are being executed. In particular, the right-hit notification effect is executed in the same manner regardless of whether the detection validity notification effect and the bonus notification effect are being executed. In addition, in this embodiment, the right-hit notification image G1 displayed in the right-hit notification effect is displayed in a display area different from the detection validity image G3 displayed in the detection validity notification effect and the bonus notification image G5 and the bonus highlight image G6 displayed in the bonus notification effect. For this reason, in this embodiment, it can be said that the right-hit notification effect is not hindered by the execution of the detection validity notification effect and the bonus notification effect.

[0180] Next, a specific example of the flow of various presentations when the gaming ball is not detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 within the effective detection period in a special winning game will be described. First, a description will be given of the flow of various presentations when the game ball is not detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 within the detection effective period in the special winning game in the case where any of the special winnings Za to Zd has been won.

[0181] As shown in FIG. 12(a), in this example, similarly to the example shown in FIG. 11, a special game is started during the time-saving state at time t10, and a special winning game is generated after a special winning symbol is derived in the special game (time t11). At this time, in the performance display device 12, a specific launch promotion performance is started with the start of the special winning game. In this case, a detection effective period is set with the start of the opening game in the role game (time t12~). In this example, the opening game is ended with the establishment of a second opening end condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed because the game ball was not detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 during the detection effective period in the special winning game (time t15). In this case, the detection effective period ends with the end of the opening game. At this time, in the performance display device 12, the right hit notification performance and the specific launch notification performance end with the end of the opening game.

[0182] In this case, in the performance display device 12, when a first specified time has elapsed since the start of the special winning game without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5, the non-passing notification performance is started (time t13). At this time, the non-passing notification performance is executed in the first mode. In addition, in the performance display device 12, when a second specified time has elapsed since the start of the special winning game without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5, the performance mode of the non-passing notification performance is changed from the first mode to the second mode (time t14). After that, in the performance display device 12, when the detection effective period ends with the end of the opening game in the role game without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5, the non-passing notification performance is ended (time t15).

[0183] Furthermore, in the performance display device 12, when the effective detection period ends without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game, a non-passing notification performance is started (time t15). That is, in the performance display device 12, the non-passing notification performance is started with the start of the ending time in the reel game. In addition, in the performance display device 12, at a predetermined timing during the ending time in the reel game, the non-passing notification performance is ended and an end notification performance is started (time t16). Thereafter, in the performance display device 12, the end notification performance is ended with the end of the special winning game (time t17).

[0184] Although not shown, when a game ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 while a non-passage notification effect is being executed, the effect display device 12 executes a detection valid notification effect in the same manner as in the case shown in Fig. 11. At this time, the presentation mode of the detection valid notification effect is the same as the presentation mode when the detection of the game ball by the specific passage sensor SE5 is triggered while the non-passage notification effect is not being executed. That is, in this embodiment, when the game ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 before the non-passage notification effect is started after the start of the special winning game and when the game ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 while the non-passage notification effect is being executed, the fact that the game ball has passed through the specific area is notified in the same manner.

[0185] Although not shown, when a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during execution of a non-passing notification effect, a detection invalid notification effect is executed in the effect display device 12. That is, in this embodiment, when a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 before the non-passing notification effect is started after the start of a special winning game, and when a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during execution of a non-passing notification effect, the fact that the gaming ball has passed through the specific area is notified in a different manner.

[0186] Next, a description will be given of the flow of various presentations when the special winning Ze is won and the game ball is not detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 within the detection effective period in the special winning game. As shown in FIG. 12(b), in this example, similar to the example shown in FIG. 11, a special game is started during the time-saving state at time t20, and a special winning game is generated after a special winning symbol is derived in the special game (time t21). At this time, in the performance display device 12, a specific launch promotion performance is started with the start of the special winning game. In this case, a detection effective period is set with the start of the opening game in the role game (time t22~). In this example, the opening game is ended with the establishment of a second opening end condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed because the game ball was not detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 during the detection effective period in the special winning game (time t23). In this case, the detection effective period ends with the end of the opening game. At this time, in the performance display device 12, the right hit notification performance and the specific launch notification performance end with the end of the opening game.

[0187] In this case, the performance display device 12 does not execute the non-passing notification performance even if the first specified time has elapsed since the start of the special winning game without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5. Furthermore, in this case, the performance display device 12 does not execute the non-passing notification performance even if the detection effective period has ended without the game ball being detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game. Then, in this case, the performance display device 12 starts the end notification performance in response to the start of the ending time in the role game (time t23). After that, the performance display device 12 ends the end notification performance with the end of the special winning game (time t24).

[0188] As described above, in this embodiment, if the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game, the bonus notification effect is not executed in the effect display device 12. That is, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a can be said to limit the bonus notification effect when the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game.

[0189] As described above, in this embodiment, if the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game, the right hit notification effect ends with the end of the opening game in the role play in the effect display device 12. That is, in this embodiment, if the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game and the detection effective period ends after the special winning game starts, it can be said that the right hit notification effect is restricted.

[0190] The effects of this embodiment will be described. (1) The period during which the detection validity notification effect is executed and the period during which the bonus notification effect is executed are partially the same period. This allows the player to easily recognize the profit that can be obtained because the fact that a jackpot game has been generated by a game ball passing through a specific area during the detection validity period and the number of game balls that can be obtained in the jackpot game are notified at the same time.

[0191] (2) The detection validity notification effect is started before the special benefit notification effect. The special benefit notification effect may be continued even after the detection validity notification effect has ended. This can prevent the notification contents from being overlooked by each effect, compared to when the period during which the detection validity notification effect is executed and the period during which the special benefit notification effect is executed are completely the same.

[0192] (3) In particular, in the case where a game ball passes through a specific area within the valid detection period in a special winning game Za, a bonus highlighting image G6 is displayed in the bonus notification performance after the valid detection notification performance ends, making it easier for the player to grasp the number of game balls that can be acquired in a big winning game.

[0193] (4) The bonus notification effect is not executed if the game ball does not pass through the specific area during a special winning game. Therefore, even if you miss whether or not the detection valid notification effect has been executed, you can infer whether or not the game ball has passed through the specific area based on whether or not the bonus notification effect has been executed.

[0194] (5) The detection validity notification effect notifies the player that a game ball has passed through a specific area in a special winning game, and therefore notifies the player that a big win game will occur. On the other hand, the bonus notification effect notifies the player of the number of game balls that can be acquired in a big win game. For this reason, if a player wants to know the details of the profit that can be obtained, the notification content in the bonus notification effect may be more important to the player than the notification content in the detection validity notification effect. The bonus notification effect is executed with priority over the detection validity notification effect, and therefore can appropriately notify the player of the information that the player wants to know.

[0195] (6) In a special winning game, when a certain amount of time has elapsed without the game ball passing through a specific area, a non-passage notification effect is executed, thereby preventing the special winning game from ending without the game ball passing through the specific area.

[0196] (7) In particular, the presentation mode of the not-passed notification effect changes over time. This can further draw the player's attention to the not-passed notification effect, and can more effectively draw the player's attention to the fact that the game ball has not yet passed through a specific area.

[0197] (8) Furthermore, in a special winning game, when the detection effective period ends without the game ball passing through a specific area, a non-passage notification effect is executed, so that the player can recognize that the special winning game has ended without the game ball passing through the specific area.

[0198] (9) In the special winning game Ze, in which it is more difficult for the game ball to pass through the specific area compared to the special winning games Za to Zd, the detection validity notification effect is executed even when the game ball passes through the specific area, so that the interest of the player can be increased when the game ball passes through the specific area. On the other hand, in the special winning game Ze, when the game ball does not pass through the specific area, the non-passage notification effect is not executed, so that it is possible to prevent the player from being unnecessarily disappointed.

[0199] (10) In this embodiment, since the right-hit notification effect can be executed while the detection valid notification effect and the bonus notification effect are being executed, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the game ball cannot be entered into the second large winning port 20 during a jackpot game in a special jackpot game, and the player is unable to obtain a game ball.

[0200] (11) If the game ball does not pass through the specific area in a special winning game, the game is controlled to the special mode after the special winning game ends, whereas if the RAM clear process is executed when the power is turned on to the pachinko game machine 10, the game is controlled to the normal mode. This allows a special feeling to be given by continuing the game in a presentation mode different from when the RAM clear process is executed when the power is turned on to the pachinko game machine 10, even if the game ball does not pass through the specific area in a special vehicle Utari game.

[0201] This embodiment can be modified and implemented as follows. The present embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

[0202] When the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special winning game, the presentation mode controlled after the special winning game ends may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the normal mode when the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special winning game and the game is controlled to a non-time-saving state after the special winning game ends. In other words, when the game ball is not detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 in the special winning game, the presentation mode may be controlled to the same presentation mode as the presentation mode controlled when the RAM clear process is executed when the power is turned on to the pachinko game machine 10.

[0203] The presentation mode controlled when the RAM clear process is executed when the power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 50a may control to a special mode when the RAM clear process is executed when the power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine 10.

[0204] The number and types of presentation modes may be changed as appropriate. For example, a plurality of presentation modes may be provided as controllable presentation modes in a given game state. Also, the same presentation mode may be controllable for different game states.

[0205] The right-hit notification effect may be executed with priority over the detection validity notification effect and the bonus notification effect. For example, when the right-hit notification image G1 displayed in the right-hit notification effect and the detection validity image G3 displayed in the detection validity notification effect are displayed in a common display area, the right-hit notification image G1 may be displayed in a display mode in which it is superimposed on the player side more than the detection validity image G3. When the right-hit notification image G1 displayed in the right-hit notification effect and the bonus notification image G5 or the bonus highlight image G6 displayed in the bonus notification effect are displayed in a common display area, the right-hit notification image G1 may be displayed in a display mode in which it is superimposed on the player side more than the bonus notification image G5 and the bonus highlight image G6. Note that the execution with priority is not limited to displaying some of the images displayed in each effect in a display mode in which they are superimposed on the player side, and may be a mode in which priority is set according to, for example, the volume of the audio notification or the intensity of the light in the light notification. That is, the execution with priority refers to executing some of the notification effects among the multiple notification effects in a notification mode that is easier to recognize than the other notification effects, and the detailed mode is not limited to the above-mentioned mode. In addition, the right-hit notification effect does not have to be executed with priority over the detection valid notification effect and the special notification effect.

[0206] The notification mode of the right-hit notification effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 50a may execute the right-hit notification effect in a different notification mode depending on whether or not the detection valid notification effect is being executed. The sub-control CPU 50a may also execute the right-hit notification effect in a different notification mode depending on whether or not the bonus notification effect is being executed. The sub-control CPU 50a may also execute the right-hit notification effect in a different notification mode depending on whether or not the non-pass notification effect is being executed.

[0207] The period during which the right-hit launch notification is executed may be changed as appropriate. For example, regardless of whether the game ball has passed through a specific area during the detection validity period, the right-hit notification effect may be executed throughout the period during which the special winning game is occurring. For example, the right-hit notification effect may not be executed for a part of the period during which the detection validity notification effect is executed. Also, the right-hit notification effect may not be executed for a part or all of the period during which the special notification effect is executed. That is, the sub-control CPU 50a may control so as not to execute the right-hit notification effect during the execution of the detection validity notification effect and the special notification effect. In this case, it is preferable to notify the player that the game state is in which the launch of the game ball into the right-side area R2a is recommended by a notification other than the right-hit notification effect. For example, the notification other than the right-hit notification effect may be a notification by a control part controlled by the main control CPU 41a, such as a notification by the information display device 13.

[0208] Regardless of the type of special win, if the detection valid period ends without the game ball passing through a specific area during a special win game, a non-passage notification effect may be executed. The presentation mode and execution timing of the non-passing notification effect may be changed as appropriate. Also, it may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute the non-passing notification effect. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may execute the end notification effect without executing the non-passing notification effect when the detection effective period ends without the game ball passing through the specific area in the special winning game.

[0209] Regardless of the type of special win, a non-pass notification effect may be executed when a first specified time has elapsed since the start of a special win game without the game ball passing through a specific area during the special win game.

[0210] The presentation mode and execution timing of the non-passage notification effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, the non-passage notification effect may be an effect whose presentation mode does not change with the passage of time. Also, the non-passage notification effect may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute the non-passage notification effect.

[0211] The sub-control CPU 50a may vary the presentation manner of the detection valid notification effect and the bonus notification effect depending on whether a game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 while the not-passing notification effect is being executed or whether a game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the detection valid period when the not-passing notification effect is not being executed.

[0212] The presentation mode and execution timing of the special notification presentation may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 50a may make the end timing of the special notification presentation the same regardless of the type of special win. That is, the sub-control CPU 50a may end the special notification presentation with the end of the detection validity notification presentation regardless of the type of special win, or may end the special notification presentation a predetermined time after the detection validity notification presentation ends. In addition, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the special notification presentation to start with the start of the detection validity notification presentation, while ending the special notification presentation with the end of the detection validity notification presentation. That is, the period during which the detection validity notification presentation is executed and the period during which the special notification presentation is executed may be the same period.

[0213] The contents to be notified in the special bonus notification may be changed as appropriate. For example, the special bonus notification may be configured to notify the total number of game balls that can be acquired in multiple jackpot games. Specifically, the special bonus notification may be configured to notify the total number of game balls that can be acquired in the current jackpot game and the number of game balls that can be acquired in the next jackpot game. For example, the special bonus notification may be configured to notify the number of game balls acquired during a special bonus game. In this case, the number of game balls acquired during a special bonus game may be the number of game balls acquired based on the entry of game balls into the first large prize winning port 18 or the second large prize winning port 20, or may be the number of game balls acquired based on the entry of game balls into a ball entry port other than the first large prize winning port 18 and the second large prize winning port 20. For example, the special bonus notification may be configured to notify the total number of game balls acquired within a specific period. Here, the specific period may be, for example, the period from when a jackpot game occurs during the non-time-saving state until when a special game is executed again in the non-time-saving state.

[0214] The presentation mode and execution timing of the detection validity notification presentation may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 50a may start the detection validity notification presentation after starting the special benefit notification presentation.

[0215] In the special winning game Ze, in which it is more difficult for the game ball to pass through the specific area compared to the special winning games Za to Zd, the detection validity notification presentation may not be executed even if the game ball passes through the specific area within the detection validity period.

[0216] The presentation mode and execution timing of the specific launch promotion performance may be changed as appropriate. In addition, the present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute the specific launch promotion performance. The presentation mode and execution timing of the continuation notification presentation may be changed as appropriate. In addition, the present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute the continuation notification presentation.

[0217] The presentation mode and execution timing of the end notification presentation may be changed as appropriate. In addition, the present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute the end notification presentation. The presentation mode and execution timing of the detection invalid notification presentation may be changed as appropriate. Also, the present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute the detection invalid notification presentation.

[0218] Each notification effect does not have to be a display effect by the effect display device 12, but may be, for example, an audio effect by a speaker SP, a light emission effect by a decorative lamp LA, or a combination of these.

[0219] The sub-control CPU50a may be capable of performing control to execute a detection notification effect simply indicating that the gaming ball has passed through a specific area, instead of the detection valid notification effect and the detection invalid notification effect. That is, the notification mode of the notification effect indicating that the gaming ball has passed through a specific area may be the same when the gaming ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 within the detection valid period and when the gaming ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 outside the detection valid period.

[0220] The start timing and end timing of the detection effective period in the special winning game may be changed as appropriate. For example, the main control CPU41a may start the detection effective period with the start of the opening time in the special winning game, or may end the detection effective period with the end of the ending time in the special winning game. When the detection effective period ends with the end of the ending time in the special winning game, the sub-control CPU50a may execute some or all of the detection effective notification effects, the bonus notification effects, the continuation notification effects, the non-passing notification effects, and the end notification effects after the ending time in the special winning game ends. For example, the sub-control CPU50a may execute the detection effective notification effects, the bonus notification effects, and the continuation notification effects during the opening time in the big winning game that occurs after the end of the special winning game. In addition, the sub-control CPU50a may execute the non-passing notification effects and the end notification effects during a predetermined period after the end of the special winning game.

[0221] The number and type of jackpots may be changed as appropriate. The number and type of special wins may be changed as appropriate. For example, for each special win, the type of game state controlled after a big win game occurs in a special win game may be changed.

[0222] The main control CPU41a may specify the game state after the jackpot game is generated in the special winning game based on the game state when the game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in the special winning game. For example, when the game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in a specific special winning game in a non-time-saving state, the main control CPU41a controls the special winning game to a non-time-saving state after the jackpot game is generated in the special winning game. On the other hand, when the game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 in a specific special winning game in a time-saving state, the main control CPU41a may control the special winning game to a time-saving state after the jackpot game is generated in the special winning game.

[0223] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not have a special jackpot symbol. In other words, a jackpot game may be generated only when a gaming ball passes through a specific area within a detection effective period in a special jackpot game.

[0224] The conditions for ending the time-saving state may be changed as appropriate. For example, the time-saving state may or may not end depending on the type of special win that is won. Also, the time-saving state may not end when a special win is won. Also, there may be multiple types of time-saving conditions with different ending conditions.

[0225] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine equipped with a probability variation function that varies the probability of winning a jackpot in a special winning lottery. For example, the present invention may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine that transitions the gaming state from a low probability state to a high probability state after the end of a jackpot game on the condition that a specific jackpot has been won. Also, for example, the present invention may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine (a so-called V-variable machine) that transitions the gaming state from a low probability state to a high probability state after the end of a jackpot game on the condition that a gaming ball is detected by a specific passing sensor SE5 during the jackpot game. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the execution of a detection validity notification performance when a gaming ball is detected by a specific passing sensor SE5 within a detection validity period set during a jackpot game. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may be capable of controlling the execution of a bonus notification display as a notification display indicating that the bonus will be controlled to a high probability state after the end of the jackpot game, when a game ball is detected by a specific passing sensor SE5 within the effective detection period set during the jackpot game.

[0226] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine having a function (so-called complete function) of restricting the execution of a game when the number of specific balls calculated based on the number of game balls acquired by the player and the number of game balls used by the player in the game reaches a predetermined upper limit. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may be capable of controlling the execution of a restriction notification effect that notifies the player that the execution of the game will be restricted when the number of specific balls reaches the upper limit. The sub-control CPU 50a may also be capable of controlling the execution of a first restriction advance notification effect that notifies the player that the execution of the game will be restricted after the end of the winning game when the number of specific balls reaches the upper limit during the winning game. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the execution of a restriction notification effect not to be executed when the number of specific balls reaches the upper limit, but to be executed when the winning game that occurred when the number of specific balls reaches the upper limit is ended. In addition, the sub-control CPU 50a may be capable of controlling the execution of a second restriction advance notification effect, which notifies the player in advance that the execution of the game will be restricted when the number of specific balls reaches the upper limit number, when the number of specific balls reaches a specific number smaller than a predetermined upper limit number. Here, when the execution of the game is restricted, a new big win game is not generated thereafter, and the player cannot acquire game balls. Therefore, the restriction notification effect, which notifies the player that the execution of the game will be restricted, corresponds to the notification effect regarding the player's profit and also corresponds to the notification effect regarding the number of acquired game balls. Similarly, the first restriction advance notification effect and the second restriction advance notification effect, which notify the player in advance that the execution of the game will be restricted, correspond to the notification effect regarding the player's profit and also correspond to the notification effect regarding the number of acquired game balls. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the execution of a part or all of the restriction notification effect, the first restriction advance notification effect, and the second restriction advance notification effect so that they can be executed during the execution of the special winning game. In particular, the sub-control CPU 50a may perform control so that a restricted notification effect and a restricted pre-notification effect can be executed while a detection validity notification effect is being executed.

[0227] When the game machine is embodied as a game machine that is equipped with a completion function and can execute the first limit advance notification effect during a winning game, the non-pass notification effect may be executed even during execution of the first limit advance notification effect. In this case, the sub-control CPU50a may execute the non-pass notification effect in the same presentation mode when executing the non-pass notification effect during execution of the first limit advance notification effect and when executing the non-pass notification effect while the first limit advance notification effect is not being executed, or may execute the non-pass notification effect in different presentation modes. In addition, the sub-control CPU50a may execute the non-pass notification effect after the end of the non-pass notification effect in the same presentation mode when the non-pass notification effect is executed during execution of the first limit advance notification effect and the game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the detection effective period after that and when the game ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the detection effective period. In other words, if a non-passing notification effect is executed while the first restriction pre-notification effect is being executed, and the game ball is subsequently detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the effective detection period, the same image may be displayed on the effect display device 12 after the non-passing notification effect has ended depending on whether the game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the effective detection period or not.

[0228] The sub-control board 50 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 lamps LA may be provided separately from the sub-control board 50. 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 50a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0229] The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be equipped with a single control board that integrates the functions of the main control board 40 and the sub-control board 50. The functions of the main control board 40 may be divided and realized on multiple boards. The main control CPU 41a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0230] 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 the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described.

[0231] (Appendix 1) In a gaming machine in which a special game is generated in which a special ball entrance is opened when a special lottery result is obtained, and in which a game ball can be obtained as a prize ball in the special game, the gaming machine includes a special lottery means for conducting the special lottery, a special game control means for generating the special game, a specific detection means for detecting a game ball that passes through a specific area in the special ball entrance among game balls that have entered the special ball entrance, a bonus awarding means for awarding a bonus on the condition that a game ball has been detected by the specific detection means in the special game, a notification means for executing a predetermined notification, and a notification system for controlling the notification means. a control means for controlling the notification of a game, wherein the special games include a plurality of types of special games each having a different number of game balls that can be won in one special game, and the notifications executed by the notification means include a specific notification that notifies the player that a game ball has passed through the specific area in the special game, and a special notification regarding the number of game balls won, and the notification control means is capable of controlling the execution of the specific notification in response to the detection of a game ball by the specific detection means in the special game, and is also capable of controlling the execution of the special notification while the specific notification is being executed.

[0232] (Appendix 2) A gaming machine as described in Appendix 1, in which the period during which the specific notification is executed and the period during which the special notification is executed are at least partially different. (Appendix 3) A gaming machine as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, wherein the notification means is capable of executing the special notification even after the specific notification has ended.

[0233] (Appendix 4) A gaming machine according to any one of Appendices 1 to 3, wherein the notification control means limits the special notification when a gaming ball is not detected by the specific detection means during the special game.

[0234] (Appendix 5) A gaming machine as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 4, comprising: a storage means for storing various information related to a game; an initialization control means capable of executing initialization control for initializing at least a portion of the information stored in the storage means in response to the start of power supply to the gaming machine; and a mode control means for controlling a presentation mode that defines various presentation aspects, wherein the mode control means controls the gaming machine to a predetermined specific presentation mode when the initialization control is executed in response to the start of power supply to the gaming machine, and controls the gaming machine to the specific presentation mode after the special game ends when a game ball is not detected by the specific detection means during the special game.

[0235] (Appendix 6) A gaming machine as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 4, comprising: a storage means for storing various information related to a game; an initialization control means capable of executing initialization control for initializing at least a portion of the information stored in the storage means in response to the start of power supply to the gaming machine; and a mode control means for controlling a presentation mode that defines various presentation aspects, wherein the mode control means controls the gaming machine to a predetermined specific presentation mode when the initialization control is executed in response to the start of power supply to the gaming machine, and controls the gaming machine to a presentation mode different from the specific presentation mode after the special game ends in a case where a game ball is not detected by the specific detection means during the special game.

[0236] (Supplementary Note 7) The gaming machine according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 6, wherein the notification means is capable of executing the special notification with priority over the specific notification. (Appendix 8) A gaming machine described in any one of Appendices 1 to 7, wherein the notification control means is capable of controlling the execution of a non-passage notification to notify that the gaming ball has not passed through the specific area if the gaming ball is not detected by the specific detection means within a first period after the special game is started, and is capable of controlling the execution of a non-passage notification to notify that the gaming ball has not passed through the specific area if the gaming ball is not detected by the specific detection means within a second period after the special game is started, the second period being longer than the first period.

[0237] (Appendix 9) The apparatus includes an operation means capable of assuming a first operation state in which game balls can enter the special ball entrance and a second operation state in which game balls cannot enter the special ball entrance, and a distribution means provided within the special ball entrance and capable of assuming a first distribution state in which game balls that have entered the special ball entrance are distributed to the specific areas, and a second distribution state in which game balls that have entered the special ball entrance are not distributed to the specific areas, and the special games include a first special game in which the operation means and the distribution means operate in a first operation pattern in which game balls can pass through the specific areas, and a second operation pattern in which the operation means and the distribution means operate in a second operation pattern in which it is more difficult for game balls to pass through the specific areas compared to the first operation pattern. and a second special game, wherein the notification control means is capable of controlling to execute the specific notification when a game ball is detected by the specific detection means regardless of whether it is the first special game or the second special game, and is capable of controlling to execute a non-passage notification that notifies that the game ball has not passed through the specific area when a game ball is not detected by the specific detection means within a specific period of time after the start of the first special game, while controlling not to execute the non-passage notification when a game ball is not detected by the specific detection means within the specific period of time after the start of the second special game. [Explanation of symbols]

[0238] CL...Center line CS...RAM clear switch G1...Right hit notification image G2...Specific launch promotion image G3...Detection valid image G4...Continuation notification image G5...Bonus notification image G6...Bonus emphasis image G7...1st non-pass notification image G8...2nd non-pass notification image G9...Non-pass notification image G10...Detection invalid image G11...End notification image GH...Image display section HD...Launch handle LA...Decorative lamp R1...1st path R1a...Left side area (1st area) R2...2nd path R2a...Right side area (2nd area) SE1...1st start winning sensor SE2...2nd start winning sensor SE3...1st count sensor SE4...2nd count sensor SE5...Specific passing sensor (specific detection means) SE6...Gate sensor SL1...1st solenoid SL2...2nd solenoid SL3...3rd solenoid SL4...4th solenoid SP...Speaker W...Center frame YB...Game board YBa...play area YBb...opening window 10...pachinko game machine 12...performance display device (performance execution means) 13...information display device 13a...first special symbol display section 13b...second special symbol display section 13c...first special hold display section 13d...second special hold display section 13e...normal symbol display section 13f...normal hold display section 14...first starting ball entry port 15...second starting ball entry port 16...normal opening / closing piece 18...first large prize entry port 19...first special opening / closing piece (operation means) 20...second large prize entry port 21...second special opening / closing piece 23...gate 23a...gate port 26...passage 26a...first passage 26b...second passage 27...branch section 28...distribution shutter (distribution means) 40...main control board 41...microprocessor 41a...Main control CPU (special lottery means, special game control means, bonus granting means, initialization control means) 41b...Main control ROM (storage means) 41c...Main control RAM 50...Sub-control board 50a...Sub-control CPU (notification control means, mode control means) 50b...Sub-control ROM 50c...Sub-control RAM

Claims

1. In a gaming machine in which a special game is generated by opening a special ball entrance when a special lottery result is obtained, and in the special game, game balls can be acquired as prize balls or prize data; A special lottery means for conducting the special lottery; A special game control means for generating the special game; A specific detection means for detecting a game ball passing through a specific area within the special ball entrance among game balls that enter the special ball entrance; A bonus awarding means for awarding a bonus on the condition that a gaming ball is detected by the specific detection means in the special game; A notification means for executing a predetermined notification; A notification control means for controlling the notification means; A storage means for storing various information related to games; an initialization control means for executing initialization control for initializing at least a part of the information stored in the storage means when power supply to the gaming machine is started; A mode control means for controlling a presentation mode that defines various presentation modes, The notification executed by the notification means includes: A specific area launch notification that prompts the launch of a game ball to the specific area; A non-passage notification that notifies the player that the game ball has not passed through the specific area; A specific notification that notifies the player that the game ball has passed through the specific area in the special game; There is a special notification regarding the number of game balls acquired, The notification control means The specific area launch notification can be controlled in response to the start of the special game. When a specified time has elapsed without a game ball being detected by the specific detection means during the execution of the specific area launch notification, the control is possible to execute the non-passage notification, It is possible to control the execution of the specific notification in response to the detection of the game ball by the specific detection means in the special game, The special notification can be controlled during the execution of the specific notification. The specific area launch notification and the non-passage notification may be terminated simultaneously; The mode control means When the initialization control is executed in response to the start of power supply to the gaming machine, the gaming machine is controlled to a predetermined specific performance mode, When the game ball is not detected by the specific detection means during the special game, the game machine is controlled to the specific presentation mode upon the end of the special game.

2. In a gaming machine in which a special game is generated by opening a special ball entrance when a special lottery result is obtained, and in the special game, game balls can be acquired as prize balls or prize data; A special lottery means for conducting the special lottery; A special game control means for generating the special game; A specific detection means for detecting a game ball passing through a specific area within the special ball entrance among game balls that enter the special ball entrance; A bonus awarding means for awarding a bonus on the condition that a gaming ball is detected by the specific detection means in the special game; A notification means for executing a predetermined notification; A notification control means for controlling the notification means; A storage means for storing various information related to games; an initialization control means for executing initialization control for initializing at least a part of the information stored in the storage means when power supply to the gaming machine is started; A mode control means for controlling a presentation mode that defines various presentation modes, The notification executed by the notification means includes: A specific area launch notification that prompts the launch of a game ball to the specific area; A non-passage notification that notifies the player that the game ball has not passed through the specific area; A specific notification that notifies the player that the game ball has passed through the specific area in the special game; There is a special notification regarding the number of game balls acquired, The notification control means The specific area launch notification can be controlled in response to the start of the special game. When a specified time has elapsed without a game ball being detected by the specific detection means during the execution of the specific area launch notification, the control is possible to execute the non-passage notification, It is possible to control the execution of the specific notification in response to the detection of the game ball by the specific detection means in the special game, The special notification can be controlled during the execution of the specific notification. The specific area launch notification and the non-passage notification may be terminated simultaneously; The mode control means When the initialization control is executed in response to the start of power supply to the gaming machine, the gaming machine is controlled to a predetermined specific performance mode, When the game ball is not detected by the specific detection means during the special game, the game machine is controlled to a special presentation mode different from the specific presentation mode upon the end of the special game.

Images