gaming machines

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of increasing interest in a game.SOLUTION: Game states of a Pachinko game machine include a first low probability state which is a low probability state and a first open state, a second low probability state which is a low probability state and a second open state, and a second high probability state which is a high probability state and a second open state. A main control CPU can control the game state to the second high probability state upon winning a big winning and can control the game state to the second low probability state upon winning a fall lottery. The probability of winning the fall lottery with a second special symbol is higher than the probability of winning the fall lottery with a first special symbol. When the fall lottery is won, a sub-control CPU can control to execute a specific winning performance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Among conventional pachinko gaming machines, which are a type of gaming machine, there are some that have a plurality of gaming states. For example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when a jackpot is won, the machine is controlled to enter a special state after the jackpot game ends, while when a player wins a drop lottery during the special state, the machine is controlled to enter a non-special state. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-104404 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In such gaming machines, it is desirable to improve the control of the gaming state to increase the interest in the game. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A gaming machine that solves the above-mentioned problems is adapted to execute a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a special lottery using random numbers, and is capable of executing control regarding a gaming state based on the result of the special lottery, and is equipped with special lottery means that executes the special lottery, gaming state control means that controls the gaming state, and presentation control means that is capable of controlling presentation, and the gaming states include a first gaming state and a second gaming state that is more advantageous to a player than the first gaming state, and the second gaming state is a gaming state in which a specific game can be executed more times than the first gaming state, and the gaming state control means is capable of control to the second gaming state when a jackpot result is won in the special lottery, and The game state control means is capable of controlling the game to the first game state when a specific result different from the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, the special lottery includes a first special lottery and a second special lottery, the probability of winning the specific result in the second special lottery is higher than the probability of winning the specific result in the first special lottery, the game states include a special game state that is more disadvantageous to the player than the first game state and the second game state, the game state control means is capable of controlling the game to the first game state when the same specific result is won in either the second game state or the special game state, and the effect control means is capable of controlling to execute a specific winning effect when the specific result is won in the special lottery, The specific winning effect is an effect that is executed in response to winning the specific result, The first gaming state The specific winning effect is executed when controlled by and the second gaming state The specific winning effect that is executed when controlled by With different performance content be executed The gist of this is as follows. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, interest in games can be increased. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. [Figure 2] An explanatory diagram showing the types of jackpots. [Figure 3]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine. [Figure 4] An explanatory diagram showing the winning probability of the drop lottery and the winning probability of the special lottery. [Figure 5] An explanatory diagram showing the transition of game states and presentation modes. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a first effect determination process. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a second effect determination process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] 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 also includes a speaker Sp that outputs sound. The speaker Sp can execute effects (hereinafter referred to as audio effects) by outputting sounds such as music and sound effects. The pachinko gaming machine 10 also includes a decorative lamp La that executes light-emitting effects using a light-emitting element (not shown). The decorative lamp La can execute light-emitting effects by turning on, blinking, and extinguishing the light-emitting element (not shown).

[0009] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a gaming board YB. A gaming area YBa into which gaming balls can flow is defined on the front side of the gaming board YB. In this embodiment, gaming balls launched by operating a launch handle HD reach the gaming area YBa.

[0010] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an information display device 11. For example, the information display device 11 is disposed in a position on the gaming board YB that is visible to the player. The information display device 11 notifies various information indicating the control status of the pachinko gaming machine 10.

[0011] The information display device 11 is equipped with a first special symbol display unit 11a. The first special symbol display unit 11a is capable of executing a first special symbol change game in which predetermined symbols are displayed in a variable manner and the first special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed, stopped symbol. In the following description, the first special symbol change game is abbreviated to "first special game." The information display device 11 is equipped with a second special symbol display unit 11b. The second special symbol display unit 11b is capable of executing a second special symbol change game in which predetermined symbols are displayed in a variable manner and the second special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed, stopped symbol. In the following description, the second special symbol change game is abbreviated to "second special game." Furthermore, the first special game and the second special game are collectively referred to as "special game." In this embodiment, the special game corresponds to a change game in which symbols are changed. The special symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of a special winning lottery, which will be described later.

[0012] In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of displayed symbol changes over time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" means a state in which the symbol is fixedly displayed and the type of displayed symbol does not change. With respect to symbols, "fixed stop display" and "derive" have the same meaning. In this embodiment, the special symbols include at least a jackpot symbol as a result of a jackpot and a loss symbol as a result of a loss. In this embodiment, the first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously. In this embodiment, the second special game is executed prior to the first special game. In this embodiment, if a jackpot (jackpot symbol) is won in the special lottery, the jackpot symbol is derived in the special game, and the jackpot game is awarded after the special game ends.

[0013] The information display device 11 is equipped with a first special hold display unit 11c. The first special hold display unit 11c displays information that allows the user to recognize the number of first special games whose execution has been suspended because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following description, the number of first special games that have been suspended is referred to as the "first special hold number." The information display device 11 is equipped with a second special hold display unit 11d. The second special hold display unit 11d displays information that allows the user to recognize the number of second special games whose execution has been suspended because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following description, the number of second special games that have been suspended is referred to as the "second special hold number." For example, the maximum values ​​of the first special hold number and the second special hold number are each "4." The hold conditions for a special game can also be understood as the conditions for starting a special game (so-called start conditions).

[0014] The information display device 11 is equipped with a normal symbol display unit 11e. The normal symbol display unit 11e is capable of executing a normal symbol variation game in which predetermined symbols are variably displayed and a normal symbol is finally displayed as a fixed, stopped symbol. The normal symbol is a symbol for announcing the result of a normal winning lottery, which will be described later. In the following explanation, the normal symbol variation game will be abbreviated to "normal game." The normal symbols in this embodiment include at least a normal winning symbol and a normal losing symbol. In this embodiment, when a normal winning is won in the normal winning lottery, a normal winning symbol is derived in the normal game, and a normal winning game is awarded after the normal game is completed.

[0015] The information display device 11 is equipped with a normal hold display section 11f. The normal hold display section 11f displays information that allows the user to recognize the number of normal games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following explanation, the number of normal games that are on hold will be referred to as the "normal hold number." For example, the maximum value of the normal hold number is "1."

[0016] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an effect display device 12 as an effect execution means for executing effects. The effect display device 12 is, for example, a liquid crystal display type display device. The effect display device 12 may be an organic EL display type display device, or may be a display device configured to include a projector and a screen. The effect display device 12 is equipped with an image display unit GH on which an image is displayed. The effect display device 12 is capable of executing, as one of its effects, an effect (hereinafter referred to as a display effect) in which an image (picture) imitating a predetermined character or letter is displayed.

[0017] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a first start opening 13 as a winning opening that is open to the gaming area YBa below the effect display device 12 on the gaming board YB. The first start opening 13 is always open so that gaming balls can enter. In the following description, the entry of a gaming ball into the winning opening may be referred to as a "winning." The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a first start sensor SE1 that detects a gaming ball that has entered the first start opening 13 (shown in FIG. 3). For example, the first start sensor SE1 is provided in a passage (not shown) through which the gaming ball that has entered the first start opening 13 passes. In this embodiment, when a gaming ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, a hold condition for the first special game may be established, and a payout condition for prize balls is also established.

[0018] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a second start opening 14 as a winning opening that opens into the gaming area YBa, below the right of the effect display device 12 on the gaming board YB. The pachinko gaming machine 10 also has a first variable member 15 as operating means that can take two states on the gaming board YB: an open state (first state) in which a gaming ball can enter the second start opening 14, and a closed state (second state) in which a gaming ball cannot enter the second start opening 14 or in which it is more difficult for a gaming ball to enter the second start opening 14 than in the open state. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a first actuator A1 that operates the first variable member 15 (shown in FIG. 3). The first variable member 15 is operated to the open state during normal winning games.

[0019] The pachinko gaming machine 10 also includes a second start sensor SE2 (shown in FIG. 3) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the second start opening 14. For example, the second start sensor SE2 is provided in a passage (not shown) through which the gaming ball that has entered the second start opening 14 passes. In this embodiment, when a gaming ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, a reservation condition for the second special game may be established, and a payout condition for prize balls is also established.

[0020] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a jackpot opening 16 on the gaming board YB, below and to the left of the second starting opening 14, which opens into the gaming area YBa. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is also provided with a second variable member 17 on the gaming board YB, which can be in an open state where gaming balls can enter the jackpot opening 16, and in a closed state where gaming balls cannot enter the jackpot opening 16. The second variable member 17 is a so-called jackpot opening door. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a second actuator A2 that operates the second variable member 17 (shown in FIG. 3). The second variable member 17 is operated to the open state during a jackpot game.

[0021] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a count sensor SE3 (shown in FIG. 3) that detects gaming balls that have entered the big prize opening 16. For example, the count sensor SE3 is provided in a passage (not shown) through which gaming balls that have entered the big prize opening 16 pass. In this embodiment, when a gaming ball is detected by the count sensor SE3, a condition for paying out a prize ball is met.

[0022] The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a gate 18 through which a gaming ball can pass (enter) on the gaming board YB to the right of the effect display device 12. The gate 18 has a gate sensor SE4 (shown in FIG. 3) that detects a gaming ball passing through the gate 18. In this embodiment, when a gaming ball is detected by the gate sensor SE4, a hold condition for the normal game can be established.

[0023] Next, the path along which the gaming ball flows down in this embodiment will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 configured as described above has multiple paths through which gaming balls flow in the gaming area YBa, depending on the launch strength of the gaming balls. The paths through which gaming balls flow can also be understood as areas through which gaming balls flow. The multiple paths include a first path R1 that flows down the left side of the effect display device 12 and a second path R2 that flows down the right side of the effect display device 12. The first path R1 and the second path R2 may overlap partially or not at all. In the following description, when the gaming board YB is viewed from the front, the area located on the left side of the gaming area YBa is referred to as the left side region R1a, and the area located on the right side is referred to as the right side region R2a. The path flowing down the left side region R1a corresponds to the first path R1, and the path flowing down the right side region R2a corresponds to the second path R2. In this embodiment, the left area R1a corresponds to the first game area, and the right area R2a corresponds to the second game area.

[0024] The player can then operate the launch handle HD to adjust the launch strength of the gaming ball, thereby selectively hitting the gaming ball into the left area R1a or the right area R2a. In this embodiment, a first starting hole 13 is disposed on the first path R1 (left area R1a). In addition, in this embodiment, a second starting hole 14, a special prize hole 16, and a gate 18 are disposed on the second path R2 (right area R2a). For this reason, if the gaming ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to a low level, the gaming ball is more likely to flow down the left area R1a and may enter the first starting hole 13. On the other hand, if the gaming ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to a high level, the gaming ball is more likely to flow down the right area R2a and may enter the second starting hole 14, the special prize hole 16, and the gate 18.

[0025] In the following description, firing a game ball with a firing intensity that makes it easy for the game ball to flow down the first path R1 may be referred to as a "left hit." Also, firing a game ball with a firing intensity that makes it easy for the game ball to flow down the second path R2 may be referred to as a "right hit."

[0026] Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a low probability state and a high probability state as gaming states with different jackpot probabilities. The high probability state is a gaming state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than in the low probability state. The high probability state is a so-called "probability variable state (probability variable state)," and the low probability state is a so-called "non-probability variable state (non-probability variable state)."

[0027] The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a first open state and a second open state as gaming states that have different rates of game balls entering the second starting hole 14. The second open state is a gaming state in which the probability of game balls entering the second starting hole 14 is higher than in the first open state. Note that in this embodiment, in the first open state, the machine is configured so that game balls cannot enter the second starting hole 14. The second open state in this embodiment is a so-called "electric support state," and the first open state is a so-called "non-electric support state."

[0028] For example, the second opening state can be realized by performing one control arbitrarily selected from the four controls described below, or by combining multiple controls. The first control is a normal symbol variation time shortening control that shortens the variation time of the normal game compared to the first opening state. The second control is a normal symbol probability variation control that varies the probability of winning a normal win in a normal winning lottery (normal win probability) to a higher probability compared to the first opening state. The third control is an opening time extension control that lengthens the opening time of the first variable member 15 per normal winning game compared to the first opening state. The fourth control is an opening count increase control that increases the number of times the first variable member 15 opens per normal winning game compared to the first opening state.

[0029] In this embodiment, when in the first open state, the opening time of the first variable member 15 in a normal winning game is extremely short compared to when in the second open state. Therefore, in this embodiment, when in the first open state, the game ball cannot substantially enter the second starting hole 14.

[0030] In this embodiment, the second opening state is realized by combining the fifth control described below. The fifth control is a special symbol fluctuation time reduction control that shortens the fluctuation time of the special game (for example, the average fluctuation time) compared to the first opening state.

[0031] In the following description, the gaming state when the game is in a low probability state and a first opening state will be referred to as a first low probability state. Also, in the following description, the gaming state when the game is in a low probability state and a second opening state will be referred to as a second low probability state, the gaming state when the game is in a high probability state and a first opening state will be referred to as a first high probability state, and the gaming state when the game is in a high probability state and a second opening state will be referred to as a second high probability state. Note that in this embodiment, the game is not controlled to the first high probability state. In this embodiment, the first low probability state corresponds to a normal gaming state, and the second low probability state and the second high probability state correspond to advantageous gaming states.

[0032] In this embodiment, the second high-probability state is a gaming state when the game is controlled to a high-probability state in which the jackpot probability is higher than in the low-probability state, and therefore can be said to be a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than in the second low-probability state. In this embodiment, the second low-probability state corresponds to the first gaming state and the first advantageous gaming state, and the second high-probability state corresponds to the second gaming state and the second advantageous gaming state. Also, in this embodiment, the first low-probability state is a gaming state when the game is controlled to the first opening state in which the rate of game balls entering the second starting hole 14 is lower than in the second opening state, and therefore can be said to be a gaming state that is more disadvantageous to the player than in the second low-probability state. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first low-probability state is a gaming state when the game is controlled to a low-probability state in which the jackpot probability is lower than in the high-probability state, and when the game is controlled to the first opening state in which the rate of game balls entering the second starting hole 14 is lower than in the second opening state, and therefore can be said to be a gaming state that is more disadvantageous to the player than in the second high-probability state. In this embodiment, the first low probability state corresponds to a special game state.

[0033] Next, the big win symbols in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment has multiple types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. The special jackpot symbols are classified into jackpot symbol ZA and jackpot symbol ZB. Each of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has a specific jackpot type. In this embodiment, of the 100 types of first special jackpot symbols, 50 types are classified as jackpot symbol ZA and 50 types are classified as jackpot symbol ZB. In addition, in this embodiment, all of the 100 types of second special jackpot symbols are classified as jackpot symbol ZB. In the following description, a jackpot based on the jackpot symbol ZA will be referred to as a "jackpot ZA," and a jackpot based on the jackpot symbol ZB will be referred to as a "jackpot ZB."

[0034] In this embodiment, in a jackpot game based on a jackpot ZA, the upper limit number of rounds (shown as the number of rounds in the figure) is set to 4. Also, in a jackpot game based on a jackpot ZB, the upper limit number of rounds is set to 10. In this embodiment, in a jackpot game based on a jackpot ZA or ZB, the upper limit time for each round is set to 25 seconds.

[0035] Furthermore, a probability state after a jackpot game is determined for each jackpot. Specifically, a high probability state is determined for the jackpot ZA and jackpot ZB as the probability state after a jackpot game. In this embodiment, when a high probability state is granted after a jackpot game, the high probability state is granted until the next jackpot game occurs or until an end result (fall-down result) that ends the high probability state is won in the fall-down lottery. In the following description, winning the end result in the fall-down lottery may be simply referred to as "winning the fall-down lottery." The fall-down lottery will be described in more detail below.

[0036] Furthermore, for each jackpot, an opening state after the jackpot game is defined. Specifically, for the jackpot ZA and the jackpot ZB, a second opening state is defined as the opening state after the jackpot game. In this embodiment, when the second opening state is granted after the jackpot game, the second opening state is granted until the jackpot end condition for the next jackpot game is established, or until the fall end condition for winning the fall lottery and ending the special game the number of times of operation (100 times in this embodiment) is established. The fall end condition is established when the fall lottery is won between the time when the machine is controlled to the second opening state and the time when the special game the number of times of operation is ended, and then the special game the number of times of operation is ended after the machine is controlled to the second opening state, or when the fall lottery is won after the special game the number of times of operation is ended after the machine is controlled to the second opening state. That is, the fall end condition is met when both the fall lottery is won after the second open state is entered and the special game is ended the number of times activated after the second open state is entered. In this embodiment, the number of times activated corresponds to the specific number of times.

[0037] According to this, after a jackpot game based on a jackpot ZA or a jackpot ZB, if the next jackpot game does not occur, the second opening state continues at least until the activation number of special games is over, and even after the activation number of special games is over, the second opening state continues until the fall lottery is won. In other words, after a jackpot game based on a jackpot ZA or a jackpot ZB, if the next jackpot game does not occur, the second opening state continues until the activation number of special games is over, regardless of whether the high probability state continues or not, and even after the activation number of special games is over, the second opening state continues as long as the high probability state continues.

[0038] Next, the effect symbol variation game executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. In this embodiment, the effect display device 12 is capable of executing an effect pattern change game in which effect patterns are variably displayed in multiple columns and ultimately a combination of effect patterns is derived. In the following explanation, the effect pattern change game is abbreviated to "effect game." The effect patterns are symbols (decorative symbols) decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are intended to diversify the display effects. In this embodiment, the effect game is performed by variably displaying (scrolling) the first, second, and third symbol columns in a predetermined direction.

[0039] The effect game starts with the start of the special game and ends with the end of the special game. Specifically, in the effect game, effect symbols are temporarily displayed in a stopped state in each of the first to third symbol columns (hereinafter referred to as "temporary stop display"), and then the effect symbols temporarily displayed in each symbol column are displayed in a fixed stopped state, thereby deriving a combination of effect symbols. In the effect game, a combination of effect symbols corresponding to the special symbols derived in the special game is derived. When a jackpot symbol (jackpot result) is derived in the special game, a jackpot symbol combination (jackpot result) based on the effect symbols is also derived in the effect game. Furthermore, when a losing symbol (loss result) is derived in the special game, a losing symbol combination (loss result) based on the effect symbols is also derived in the effect game. In the following explanation, the special game and effect game may be collectively referred to as "variable game."

[0040] Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. As shown in Figure 3, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a main control board 30 on the back side (rear) of the game board YB. The main control board 30 performs various processes and outputs control signals (control commands) according to the results of the processes. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is also provided with a sub-control board 31 on the back side (rear) of the game board YB. The sub-control board 31 executes predetermined processes based on the control signals input from the main control board 30.

[0041] First, the main control board 30 will be described in detail. The main control board 30 includes a main control CPU 30a, a main control ROM 30b, and a main control RAM 30c. The main control CPU 30a executes a main control program to perform various processes.

[0042] The main control ROM 30b stores a main control program, a determination value used in a predetermined lottery, and the like. The main control ROM 30b also stores a plurality of types of variation patterns. The variation pattern is information that can specify the variation time from the start of a special game to the end of the special game. The variation pattern is also information that can specify at least a part of the effect content of an effect game that is performed during the execution of a special game.

[0043] The fluctuation patterns in this embodiment include a jackpot fluctuation pattern and a miss fluctuation pattern. The jackpot fluctuation pattern is a fluctuation pattern that ultimately derives a jackpot symbol combination in a presentation game. The miss fluctuation pattern is a fluctuation pattern that ultimately derives a miss symbol combination in a presentation game.

[0044] The main control RAM 30c is configured to be able to store various information that is rewritten during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The information stored in the main control RAM 30c includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The main control board 30 is also configured to be able to generate random numbers. For example, the random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

[0045] The main control CPU 30a is connected to the first start sensor SE1, the second start sensor SE2, the count sensor SE3, and the gate sensor SE4. The main control CPU 30a is configured to be able to input detection signals output by each sensor when it detects a gaming ball. The main control CPU 30a is connected to the information display device 11 (first special symbol display unit 11a, second special symbol display unit 11b, first special hold display unit 11c, second special hold display unit 11d, normal symbol display unit 11e, normal hold display unit 11f). The main control CPU 30a is configured to be able to control the display content of the information display device 11. The main control CPU 30a is connected to the first actuator A1 and the second actuator A2. The main control CPU 30a is configured to be able to control the operation of each actuator. In this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a functions as an operation control means that controls the first variable member 15 by controlling the operation of the first actuator A1.

[0046] Next, the sub-control board 31 will be described. The sub-control board 31 is connected to the main control board 30. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is configured so that a control signal can be output in one direction from the main control board 30 to the sub-control board 31.

[0047] The sub-control board 31 comprises a sub-control CPU 31a, a sub-control ROM 31b, and a sub-control RAM 31c. The sub-control CPU 31a executes a sub-control program to perform various processes (for example, processes related to presentations). As a result, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 31a functions as presentation control means capable of controlling presentations. The sub-control ROM 31b stores the sub-control program, determination values ​​used in the lottery, and the like. The sub-control ROM 31b stores display presentation data related to display presentations, light-emitting presentation data related to light-emitting presentations, and audio presentation data related to audio presentations.

[0048] The sub-control RAM 31c is also configured to be able to store various information that is rewritten as appropriate during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The information stored in the sub-control RAM 31c includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The sub-control board 31 is also configured to be able to generate random numbers. The random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

[0049] The sub-control CPU 31a and the performance display device 12 are connected. The sub-control CPU 31a is configured to be able to control the display content of the performance display device 12. The sub-control CPU 31a and the decorative lamp La are connected. The sub-control CPU 31a is configured to be able to control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp La. The sub-control CPU 31a and the speaker Sp are connected. The sub-control CPU 31a is configured to be able to control the sound output mode from the speaker Sp.

[0050] Next, various processes (controls) executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. The main control CPU 30a executes various processes such as special symbol input process and special symbol start process based on the main control program. The main control CPU 30a executes various processes such as special symbol input process and special symbol start process at predetermined control cycles (for example, every 4 ms).

[0051] First, the special symbol input process will be described. In the special symbol input process, the main control CPU 30a determines whether a gaming ball has entered the first start hole 13. At this time, the main control CPU 30a determines that a gaming ball has entered the first start hole 13 by inputting a detection signal from the first start sensor SE1. When a gaming ball has entered the first start hole 13, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the first special reserve number stored in the main control RAM 30c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). When the first special reserve number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 30a updates the first special reserve number stored in the main control RAM 30c by adding 1. At this time, the main control CPU 30a controls the information display device 11 to display the updated first special reserve number. As described above, in this embodiment, when the first special reserve number is less than the upper limit number, the reserve condition for the first special game is met by a gaming ball entering the first start hole 13. In other words, in this embodiment, the first special game can be executed when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 13 as a trigger.

[0052] Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires random numbers generated within the main control board 30 and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 30c. For example, the random numbers may be jackpot random numbers, jackpot symbol random numbers, variable pattern random numbers, or fall random numbers. The main control CPU 30a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify the random number information for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, storing the random number information for the first special game in the main control RAM 30c allows the execution of the first special game to be suspended until the execution conditions for the first special game are met. The random number information may be the acquired random numbers themselves, or may be information obtained by processing the random numbers using a predetermined method. The main control CPU 30a also generates a reserved number command that can identify the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 30c and sets it in the output buffer. In this embodiment, the command set in the output buffer is output to the sub-control board 31 in a predetermined output process.

[0053] Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a generates a look-ahead command (pre-determination command) capable of identifying the variable content of the first special game for which the reservation condition has been established, and sets the command in the output buffer. Specifically, the main control CPU 30a pre-determines whether the value of the acquired random number is a value that will result in a jackpot in the special winning lottery performed in the special symbol start processing described later. The main control CPU 30a also pre-determines whether the value of the acquired random number is a value that will result in a winning end result in the falling lottery performed in the special symbol start processing described later. Then, the main control CPU 30a generates the look-ahead command based on the result of the pre-determination.

[0054] If a gaming ball has not entered the first start port 13, if the number of first special reserved balls is not less than the upper limit number, and if random number information for the first special game is stored in the main control RAM 30c, the main control CPU 30a determines whether a gaming ball has entered the second start port 14. At this time, the main control CPU 30a determines that a gaming ball has entered the second start port 14 by inputting a detection signal from the second start sensor SE2. If a gaming ball has not entered the second start port 14, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if a gaming ball has entered the second start port 14, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the number of second special reserved balls stored in the main control RAM 30c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If the number of second special reserved balls is not less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the second special reserve number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 30a updates the second special reserve number stored in the main control RAM 30c by adding 1. At this time, the main control CPU 30a controls the information display device 11 to display the updated second special reserve number. In this way, in this embodiment, if the second special reserve number is less than the upper limit number, the reserve condition for the second special game is met when a gaming ball enters the second start hole 14. In other words, in this embodiment, the second special game can be executed when a gaming ball enters the second start hole 14.

[0055] Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires random numbers generated within the main control board 30 and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 30c. At this time, the main control CPU 30a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the second special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the second special game in the main control RAM 30c, its execution can be suspended until the execution conditions for the second special game are met. In addition, the main control CPU 30a generates a reserve number command that can identify the second special reserve number stored in the main control RAM 30c and sets it in the output buffer.

[0056] Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a generates a look-ahead command (pre-determination command) capable of identifying the variable content of the second special game for which the reservation condition has been established, and sets the command in the output buffer. Specifically, the main control CPU 30a pre-determines whether the value of the acquired random number is a value that will result in a jackpot in the special winning lottery performed in the special symbol start processing described later. The main control CPU 30a also pre-determines whether the value of the acquired random number is a value that will result in a winning end result in the falling lottery performed in the special symbol start processing described later. Then, the main control CPU 30a generates a look-ahead command based on the result of the pre-determination. Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol input processing.

[0057] By executing the special symbol input process as described above, the main control CPU 30a can control to suspend the execution of the special game. That is, in this embodiment, by the main control CPU 30a executing the special symbol input process, a suspension control means is realized that can control to suspend the execution of the special game.

[0058] Next, the special symbol start process will be described. First, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the execution conditions for the special game are met. In this determination, the main control CPU 30a determines that the execution conditions are met when neither a jackpot game nor a special game is in progress, while it determines that the execution conditions are not met when a jackpot game or a special game is in progress. If the execution conditions are not met, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol start process.

[0059] On the other hand, if the execution condition is met, the main control CPU 30a acquires the second special reservation number stored in the main control RAM 30c and determines whether the acquired second special reservation number is greater than 0 (zero). If the second special reservation number is greater than 0, the main control CPU 30a starts the execution of the second special game that was reserved first among the reserved second special games. That is, in this embodiment, if the execution condition for the special game is met and the execution of the second special game is reserved, the start condition for starting the second special game that was reserved first among the reserved second special games is met. On the other hand, if the second special reservation number is 0, the main control CPU 30a acquires the first special reservation number and determines whether the acquired first special reservation number is greater than 0. If the first special reservation number is greater than 0, the main control CPU 30a starts the execution of the first special game that was reserved first among the reserved first special games. That is, in this embodiment, when the execution condition for a special game is met, the execution of the second special game is not suspended, and the execution of the first special game is suspended, the start condition for starting the first special game among the suspended first special games is met. As a result, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment does not execute the first special game and the second special game simultaneously, but executes the second special game preferentially. In this way, in this embodiment, after the suspension condition for a special game is met, the execution of the suspended special game is started in response to the fulfillment of the start condition.

[0060] When the start condition of the first special game is met, the main control CPU 30a subtracts 1 from the first special reserve number to update it, and controls the information display device 11 to display the subtracted first special reserve number. The main control CPU 30a also generates a reserve number command that can identify the subtracted first special reserve number and sets it in the output buffer. Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires the first-stored random number information from the main control RAM 30c among the random number information for the first special game. Then, the main control CPU 30a performs a roll-down lottery for the first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as the first roll-down lottery). Next, the main control CPU 30a performs a special winning lottery for the first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as the first special winning lottery). The roll-down lottery and the special winning lottery will be described in detail below.

[0061] Similarly, when the start condition of the second special game is met, the main control CPU 30a subtracts 1 from the second special reserve number to update it, and controls the information display device 11 to display the second special reserve number after subtraction. Also, the main control CPU 30a generates a reserve number command that can identify the second special reserve number after subtraction and sets it in the output buffer. Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires the random number information for the second special game that was stored first from the main control RAM 30c. Then, the main control CPU 30a performs a roll-down lottery for the second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as the second roll-down lottery). Next, the main control CPU 30a performs a special winning lottery for the second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as the second special winning lottery).

[0062] In the following explanation, the special winning lottery and the falling-out lottery may be collectively referred to as the "special lottery." In addition, in the following explanation, the first special winning lottery and the first falling-out lottery may be collectively referred to as the "first special lottery," and the second special winning lottery and the second falling-out lottery may be collectively referred to as the "second special lottery."

[0063] Here, the special lottery in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. First, the fall lottery will be described. In the fall lottery, the main control CPU 30a performs a fall lottery to determine whether the end result will be a winning result based on the value of the fall random number that can be identified from the acquired random number information and the fall judgment value stored in the main control ROM 30b. At this time, the main control CPU 30a performs the fall lottery using different fall judgment values ​​when the start condition of the first special game is met and when the start condition of the second special game is met. Therefore, in this embodiment, the probability of winning the end result differs between the first fall lottery and the second fall lottery. Specifically, in this embodiment, the fall judgment values ​​are allocated so that the probability of winning the end result in the second fall lottery is higher than the probability of winning the end result in the first fall lottery. In other words, in this embodiment, the probability of winning the end result in the second fall lottery is higher than the probability of winning the end result in the first fall lottery. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a performs the falling lottery so that the winning probability for the end result is the same regardless of the current game state.

[0064] If the fall lottery is won, the main control CPU 30a sets a value that can identify a low probability state to the probability state flag and updates the probability state flag. This ends the high probability state and controls the state to a low probability state. Also, if the fall lottery is won, the main control CPU 30a generates a fall command that can identify that the fall lottery has been won and sets it in the output buffer.

[0065] Next, the special win lottery will be explained. In this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a performs a special win lottery based on the value of the jackpot random number that can be identified from the acquired random number information and the jackpot determination value stored in the main control ROM 30b. At this time, the main control CPU 30a performs a special win lottery using a jackpot determination value that differs depending on the current probability state. Specifically, when the probability state is high, the main control CPU 30a performs a special win lottery so that the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than when the probability state is low. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a performs a special win lottery so that the probability of winning a jackpot is the same regardless of whether it is the first special win lottery or the second special win lottery.

[0066] If a jackpot is won in the special jackpot lottery, the main control CPU 30a performs jackpot variation processing. In the jackpot variation processing, the main control CPU 30a determines a jackpot symbol for a special symbol based on the value of the jackpot symbol random number identified from the acquired random number information. This determined jackpot symbol becomes the final stop symbol derived in the special game. Furthermore, when the main control CPU 30a determines a jackpot symbol for a special symbol, it determines a jackpot variation pattern from multiple types of jackpot variation patterns by conducting a variation pattern determination lottery. On the other hand, if a jackpot is not determined in the jackpot determination, the main control CPU 30a performs a loss variation processing. In the loss variation processing, the main control CPU 30a determines a loss symbol for the special symbol. This determined loss symbol becomes the final stop symbol derived in the special game. In addition, when the main control CPU 30a determines a losing special symbol, it determines a losing variation pattern from among a plurality of types of losing variation patterns by performing a variation pattern determination lottery. After that, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol start process.

[0067] As described above, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a executes the special symbol start process, thereby realizing a special lottery means for executing a special lottery. After the special symbol start process is completed, the main control CPU 30a executes a special game by performing a process separate from the special symbol start process. Specifically, the main control CPU 30a controls the display content of the information display device 11 to start the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The main control CPU 30a also sets information specifying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process (hereinafter referred to as a special symbol designation command) in the output buffer. The main control CPU 30a also sets information specifying a variation pattern and instructing the start of an effect game (hereinafter referred to as a variation pattern designation command) in the output buffer. The main control CPU 30a also measures the variation time determined for the variation pattern determined in the special symbol start process. The main control CPU 30a then controls the information display device 11 so that the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process is displayed 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 pattern start processing has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a sets information (hereinafter referred to as the all pattern stop command) for deriving a combination of performance patterns in the output buffer.

[0068] By such control, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, a special game is executed based on the result of a special lottery using random numbers. Next, the big win processing performed by the main control CPU 30a will be described.

[0069] In the jackpot processing, the main control CPU 30a specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (i.e., the type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start processing. After the jackpot special game ends, the main control CPU 30a starts control to award the specified jackpot game and outputs predetermined control information.

[0070] When the special game resulting from a jackpot ends, the main control CPU 30a first starts measuring the opening time and generates a command (hereinafter referred to as a jackpot start command) instructing the execution of an opening effect, which is set in the output buffer. After the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a performs processing to execute a round game. Specifically, the main control CPU 30a controls the second actuator A2 so that the large prize opening 16 is opened during the round game. After starting the round game, if the first or second end condition is met, the main control CPU 30a closes the large prize opening 16, thereby ending the round game. The main control CPU 30a repeatedly performs this processing to execute the round game until the maximum number of round games set for the jackpot game has been completed. Each time a round game starts, the main control CPU 30a generates a command (hereinafter referred to as a round command) instructing the execution of a round effect, which is set in the output buffer. Then, when the final round of play ends, the main control CPU 30a generates a command (hereinafter referred to as the ending command) that instructs the execution of an ending performance and sets it in the output buffer. When the ending time of the jackpot game has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a generates information that can identify the end of the jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot end command) and sets it in the output buffer. Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a ends the jackpot processing.

[0071] By such control, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, if a jackpot is won in the special lottery, a jackpot game is awarded. Next, a description will be given of the processing relating to the gaming state performed by the main control CPU 30a. In this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a performs processing relating to the gaming state, thereby realizing a gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state.

[0072] The main control CPU 30a controls the game state to the first low-probability state when starting a jackpot game. Therefore, in this embodiment, the game state is the first low-probability state during the jackpot game. Furthermore, when a jackpot is won, the main control CPU 30a specifies the game state to be controlled to after the jackpot game ends according to the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot). Then, the main control CPU 30a controls the game state to the specified game state when ending the jackpot game. Note that, in this embodiment, regardless of the jackpot symbol, the second high-probability state is specified as the game state to be controlled after the jackpot game ends. Therefore, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a controls the game state to the second high-probability state when ending the jackpot game. That is, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a can control the game state to the second high-probability state when a jackpot is won in a special lottery. In this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a can control the state to the second low probability state when a jackpot is won in a special winning lottery.

[0073] Furthermore, when controlling to the second open state, the main control CPU 30a stores the number of times equivalent to the number of activations in the main control RAM 30c as the remaining number of times to control to the second open state. The main control CPU 30a also sets information that can identify the number of activations (hereinafter referred to as an activation count command) in the output buffer. Then, the main control CPU 30a subtracts 1 from the remaining number of activations stored in the main control RAM 30c every time a special game is executed.

[0074] Then, when the remaining number of activations reaches 0, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the current probability state is a high-probability state. If the current probability state is a high-probability state, the main control CPU 30a continues to control to the second open state even after the special game in which the remaining number of activations reaches 0 has ended. According to this, in this embodiment, when the main control CPU 30a is controlling to the second high-probability state, it can continue to control to the second high-probability state even after the special game in which the number of activations has been executed has been executed. Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a controls to the first open state when the low-probability state is triggered. On the other hand, if the probability state when the remaining number of activations reaches 0 is a low-probability state, the main control CPU 30a controls to the first low-probability state upon the end of the special game in which the remaining number of activations has been executed. According to this, in this embodiment, when the main control CPU 30a is controlling to the second low-probability state, it controls to the second low-probability state until the special game in which the number of activations has been executed has been executed.

[0075] Furthermore, if the main control CPU 30a wins the fall lottery, it determines the remaining number of activations stored in the main control RAM 30c. If the remaining number of activations is 0, the main control CPU 30a controls the system to a first low-probability state in response to winning the fall lottery. On the other hand, if the remaining number of activations is not 0, the main control CPU 30a controls the system to a second low-probability state in response to winning the fall lottery. Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a controls the system to a first low-probability state in response to winning the remaining number of activations in response to winning the fall lottery. That is, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a can control the system to a second low-probability state in response to winning the end result in the fall lottery. Note that in this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a cannot control the system to a second high-probability state in response to winning the fall lottery. In this embodiment, the end result corresponds to a specific result.

[0076] The main control RAM 30c stores information that can identify the game state, including a probability state flag that can identify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state, and an open state flag that can identify whether the game state is a first open state or a second open state.

[0077] When controlling to the low probability state, the main control CPU 30a sets the probability state flag to a value that can identify the low probability state and sets control information that can identify the low probability state (hereinafter referred to as the low probability command) in the output buffer. When controlling to the high probability state, the main control CPU 30a sets the probability state flag to a value that can identify the high probability state and sets control information that can identify the high probability state (hereinafter referred to as the high probability command) in the output buffer. When controlling to the first open state, the main control CPU 30a sets the open state flag to a value that can identify the first open state and sets control information that can identify the first open state (hereinafter referred to as the first open command) in the output buffer. When controlling to the second open state, the main control CPU 30a sets the open state flag to a value that can identify the second open state and sets control information that can identify the second open state (hereinafter referred to as the second open command) in the output buffer. In the following description, commands that can identify each game state may be collectively referred to as "game state commands."

[0078] Here, the transition of the game state realized by the above control will be explained. As shown in FIG. 5, in this embodiment, if a jackpot is won during the first low-probability state and a jackpot game is awarded (shown as a jackpot in the figure), the machine is controlled to the second high-probability state after the jackpot game ends. Also, in this embodiment, if a jackpot is won during the second low-probability state and a jackpot game is awarded (shown as a jackpot in the figure), the machine is similarly controlled to the second high-probability state after the jackpot game ends. Furthermore, in this embodiment, if a jackpot is won during the second high-probability state and a jackpot game is awarded (shown as a jackpot in the figure), the machine is again controlled to the second high-probability state after the jackpot game ends. In other words, if a jackpot is won in a special lottery, the second high-probability state continues even after the jackpot game ends. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, the machine is controlled to the first low-probability state when the jackpot game starts. However, in this embodiment, regardless of which jackpot game is started, the game is controlled back to the second high-probability state after the jackpot game ends. Therefore, in the second high-probability state, the game is controlled back to the first low-probability state when the jackpot game starts, but is controlled back to the second high-probability state after the jackpot game ends, so the second high-probability state is not actually ended. In other words, the second high-probability state is not ended when a jackpot is won in a special lottery.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the player wins the fall lottery after being controlled to the second high probability state and before the special game of the number of activations is completed (indicated as a fall lottery win (before the number of activations is completed) in the figure), the player is controlled to the second low probability state. On the other hand, in this embodiment, if the player wins the fall lottery after being controlled to the second high probability state and after the special game of the number of activations is completed (indicated as a fall lottery win (after the number of activations is completed) in the figure), the player is controlled to the first low probability state. In other words, the second high probability state ends when the end result is won in the fall lottery. In other words, it can be said that the end conditions for the second high probability state include specific end conditions for winning the end result.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the number of special games activated is completed during the second low-probability state (indicated as "activation count completed" in the figure), the system is controlled to the first low-probability state. In other words, the condition for terminating the second low-probability state includes a condition for completing the number of times that the special game is executed. Note that, here, "when the number of special games activated is completed" refers to when the number of special games activated is completed after control to the second open state, including the number of special games executed in the second high-probability state before control to the second low-probability state. Therefore, the number of special games executed between control to the second low-probability state and control to the first low-probability state does not necessarily match the number of activations.

[0081] In addition to the above-mentioned processes, the main control CPU 30a also performs the following processes. For example, the main control CPU 30a also performs processes related to normal symbols and processes related to errors. The normal symbol processes include inputting a detection signal from the gate sensor SE4 and starting a normal symbol variation game.

[0082] Next, a description will be given of various processes executed by the sub-control CPU 31a of the sub-control board 31 based on the sub-control program. When a control signal is input from the main control CPU 30a, the sub-control CPU 31a executes various processes in accordance with the control signal.

[0083] First, the process when a read-ahead command is input will be described. When the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a look-ahead command, it stores the look-ahead command in a predetermined storage area of ​​the sub-control RAM 31c so that it can identify which special game the look-ahead command corresponds to and the order in which the look-ahead commands were input. Next, the sub-control CPU 31a executes a second effect determination process based on the input look-ahead command to determine an effect to be executed before the start of the special game corresponding to the input look-ahead command. The second effect determination process, which is executed in response to the input of the look-ahead command, will be described in detail below. The sub-control CPU 31a then controls the effect device group to execute the determined effect. In this embodiment, the effect device group includes the effect display device 12, the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La.

[0084] Next, the effect symbol variation process for executing the effect game will be described. In the effect symbol variation process, when the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a special symbol designation command, it determines the combination of effect symbols to be derived in the effect game based on the special symbol designated by the special symbol designation command. When a jackpot symbol of a special symbol is designated, the sub-control CPU 31a determines the symbol combination of the jackpot by the effect symbol. As a result, in the effect game of this embodiment, when a jackpot is won in the special jackpot lottery, the jackpot result is derived. Furthermore, when a losing symbol of a special symbol is designated, the sub-control CPU 31a determines the combination of effect symbols to be derived in the effect game based on the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command.

[0085] Furthermore, when the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a variation pattern designation command, it executes a first effect determination process to determine the effect to be executed during the execution of the special game based on the variation pattern designated by the input variation pattern designation command. In this embodiment, the determination ratio of the effect to be executed during the execution of the special game differs depending on the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command. The first effect determination process, which is executed in response to the input of the variation pattern designation command, will be described in detail later.

[0086] Furthermore, upon input of a variation pattern designation command, the sub-control CPU 31a controls the sub-control RAM 31c to erase the look-ahead command corresponding to the input variation pattern designation command from among the look-ahead commands stored in the sub-control RAM 31c. At this time, when the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a variation pattern designation command that can identify the variation pattern of the first special game, it erases the look-ahead command that was stored earliest among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the first special game. Similarly, when the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a variation pattern designation command that can identify the variation pattern of the second special game, it erases the look-ahead command that was stored earliest among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game. Then, the sub-control CPU 31a controls the effect device group to execute the determined effect.

[0087] Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 31a ends the effect game in response to the input of the all symbol stop command, and controls the display content of the effect display device 12 so as to derive the combination of effect symbols. The sub-control CPU 31a may also be configured to count the change time specified from the specified change pattern in response to the input of the change pattern designation command, and end the effect game in response to the lapse of the change time. In other words, the end of the effect game may be controlled without outputting the all symbol stop command from the main control board 30.

[0088] Next, the processing related to the big win game will be explained. When the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a jackpot start command, it controls the group of performance devices to perform an opening performance. When a round command is input, the sub-control CPU 31a controls the group of performance devices to perform a round performance. When an ending command is input, the sub-control CPU 31a controls the group of performance devices to perform an ending performance. After that, when the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a jackpot end command, it controls the group of performance devices to end the ending performance.

[0089] Next, processing related to the gaming state will be described. The sub-control RAM 31c stores information that can identify the game state, including a sub-probability state flag that can identify whether the game state is a low-probability state or a high-probability state, and a sub-open state flag that can identify whether the game state is a first-open state or a second-open state.

[0090] When a low-probability command is input, the sub-control CPU31a sets the sub-probability state flag to a value that can identify a low-probability state, while when a high-probability command is input, the sub-control CPU31a sets the sub-probability state flag to a value that can identify a high-probability state. Also, when a first opening command is input, the sub-control CPU31a sets the sub-opening state flag to a value that can identify the first opening state, while when a second opening command is input, the sub-opening state flag to a value that can identify the second opening state.

[0091] Furthermore, when the sub-control CPU 31a inputs an operation count command, it stores the operation count that can be determined from the operation count command in the sub-control RAM 31c. Then, every time the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a variation pattern designation command, it subtracts 1 from the operation count stored in the sub-control RAM 31c. This allows the sub-control CPU 31a to determine the remaining operation count.

[0092] The effects in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described below. First, the presentation modes in this embodiment will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment has a plurality of presentation modes that define the manner in which presentations are executed. The presentation execution manner includes, for example, the types of presentations that can be executed, the probability of execution of the presentations, the types of images displayed in the presentations, etc.

[0093] The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment has three types of presentation modes: normal mode, super heaven mode, and heaven mode. The normal mode is the presentation mode when the gaming state is in the first low probability state. The super heaven mode is the presentation mode when the gaming state is in the second high probability state. The heaven mode is the presentation mode when the gaming state is in the second low probability state. In this embodiment, the super heaven mode corresponds to the second mode, and the heaven mode corresponds to the first mode.

[0094] Here, the control performed by the sub-control CPU 31a regarding the rendering mode will be explained. In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 31a performs the following control, thereby realizing mode control means for controlling the rendering mode.

[0095] The sub-control CPU 31a identifies the current game state based on a command input from the main control CPU 30a, and controls the transition of the presentation mode according to the identified game state. At this time, the sub-control CPU 31a transitions the presentation mode by updating the value of the mode flag stored in the sub-control RAM 31c. That is, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 31a can control the game to normal mode during the first low-probability state, to super heaven mode during the second high-probability state, and to heaven mode during the second low-probability state.

[0096] As a result, as shown in Figure 5, the sub-control CPU31a controls to the Super Heaven mode when a jackpot is won during the normal mode. Similarly, the sub-control CPU31a controls to the Super Heaven mode when a jackpot is won during the Heaven mode. Furthermore, if a jackpot is won during the Super Heaven mode, the sub-control CPU31a continues to control to the Super Heaven mode.

[0097] Furthermore, if the fall lottery is won during the super heaven mode and the special game for the number of times activated has not ended, the sub-control CPU31a controls to the heaven mode. On the other hand, if the fall lottery is won during the super heaven mode and the special game for the number of times activated has ended, the sub-control CPU31a controls to the normal mode. Furthermore, if the special game for the number of times activated has ended during the heaven mode, the sub-control CPU31a controls to the normal mode.

[0098] Next, the effects that can be performed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a special winning effect that notifies a player that a jackpot has been won in a special game currently being played. In other words, in this embodiment, the special winning effect is an effect that can be executed during the execution of the special game in which the jackpot has been won, when a jackpot has been won in a special winning lottery.

[0099] Furthermore, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a specific winning effect that notifies a player that a drop lottery has been won in a special game currently being executed. In other words, in this embodiment, the specific winning effect is an effect that can be executed during execution of a special game that has been won as a result of the drop lottery, if the result of the drop lottery has been won.

[0100] Here, the control of the sub-control CPU 31a when determining to execute the special winning effect and the specific winning effect will be described. The sub-control CPU31a executes a first effect determination process in response to input of a variation pattern designation command from the main control CPU30a, thereby determining whether or not to execute a special winning effect and a specific winning effect.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 6, when the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a fluctuation pattern designation command, it determines whether or not a jackpot has been won in the special winning lottery that triggered the output of the fluctuation pattern designation command (step S10). At this time, the sub-control CPU 31a makes a positive determination if the fluctuation pattern identified from the fluctuation pattern designation command is a jackpot fluctuation pattern, and makes a negative determination if it is not a jackpot fluctuation pattern. If a jackpot has been won in the special winning lottery (step S10: YES), the sub-control CPU 31a determines whether or not the pending special games include a special game that will win the drop-out lottery (step S11). At this time, the sub-control CPU 31a makes a positive determination if the look-ahead commands stored in the sub-control RAM 31c include a look-ahead command that can identify a win in the drop-out lottery, and makes a negative determination if they do not.

[0102] If the pending special games do not include a special game that will win the drop lottery (step S11: NO), the sub-control CPU 31a executes a special winning effect lottery to determine whether or not to execute a special winning effect, and determines whether or not the special winning effect lottery has been won (step S12). If the special winning effect lottery has been won (step S12: YES), the sub-control CPU 31a sets a special winning effect determination flag, indicating that execution of the special winning effect has been determined, in a predetermined storage area in the sub-control RAM 31c (step S13). Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 31a ends the first effect determination process.

[0103] On the other hand, if the pending special games include a special game that will win the drop lottery (step S11: YES), the sub-control CPU31a ends the first effect determination process without deciding to execute the special winning effect. Similarly, if the special winning effect lottery is not won (step S12: NO), the sub-control CPU31a ends the first effect determination process without deciding to execute the special winning effect.

[0104] Furthermore, if the jackpot has not been won in the special lottery (step S10: NO), the sub-control CPU31a determines whether or not the roll-down lottery has been won (step S14). At this time, the sub-control CPU31a makes a positive determination if a roll-down command has been input, and a negative determination if a roll-down command has not been input. If the roll-down lottery has been won (step S14: YES), the sub-control CPU31a determines whether or not the special games on hold include a special game that will result in a jackpot (step S15). At this time, the sub-control CPU31a makes a positive determination if the look-ahead commands stored in the sub-control RAM 31c include a look-ahead command that can identify a jackpot win, and a negative determination if they do not.

[0105] If the pending special games do not include a special game that will result in a jackpot (step S15: NO), the sub-control CPU 31a executes a specific winning effect lottery to determine whether or not to execute a specific winning effect, and determines whether or not the specific winning effect lottery has been won (step S16). If the specific winning effect lottery has been won (step S16: YES), the sub-control CPU 31a sets a specific winning effect determination flag, which indicates that execution of the specific winning effect has been decided, in a predetermined storage area in the sub-control RAM 31c (step S17).

[0106] Next, the sub-control CPU 31a determines the effect content of the specific winning effect according to the current gaming state (step S18). Specifically, when the current gaming state is the first low-probability state or the second low-probability state, the sub-control CPU 31a determines the first effect content as the effect content of the specific winning effect. On the other hand, when the current gaming state is the second high-probability state, the sub-control CPU 31a determines the second effect content as the effect content of the specific winning effect. That is, in this embodiment, the effect content of the specific winning effect differs depending on whether the fall-down lottery is won during the first low-probability state or the second low-probability state and whether the fall-down lottery is won during the second high-probability state. Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 31a ends the first effect determination process.

[0107] On the other hand, if the fall-down lottery is not won (step S14: NO), the sub-control CPU31a ends the first effect determination process without deciding to execute the specific winning effect. Similarly, if the pending special games include a special game that will result in a jackpot (step S15: YES), the sub-control CPU31a also ends the first effect determination process without deciding to execute the specific winning effect. Furthermore, if the specific winning effect lottery is not won (step S16: NO), the sub-control CPU31a also ends the first effect determination process without deciding to execute the specific winning effect.

[0108] Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 31a performs control so that the special winning effect and the specific winning effect are executed during the execution of the special game, based on the contents determined by the first effect determination process. By such control, in this embodiment, when a jackpot is won in the special lottery, the sub-control CPU31a can control to execute the special winning effect during the execution of the special game that is executed based on the result of the special lottery. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when the special games on hold include a special game that wins the drop lottery, the sub-control CPU31a does not execute the special winning effect even if a jackpot is won in the special lottery.

[0109] Furthermore, by such control, in this embodiment, when the roll-down lottery is won, the sub-control CPU31a can control to execute a specific winning effect during the execution of a special game that is executed based on the result of the roll-down lottery. Also, in this embodiment, when the special games on hold include a special game that will result in a jackpot in the special winning lottery, the sub-control CPU31a will not execute the specific winning effect even when the roll-down lottery is won.

[0110] The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a special hold effect that notifies that a special game that will result in a jackpot is included in the reserved special games. In other words, in this embodiment, the special hold effect is an effect that can be executed before the start of the special game that will result in a jackpot, when a special game that will result in a jackpot is included in the reserved special games.

[0111] In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a specific hold effect that notifies that a special game that wins the drop lottery is included in the reserved special games. In other words, in this embodiment, the specific hold effect is an effect that can be executed before the start of the special game that wins the drop lottery when a special game that wins the drop lottery is included in the reserved special games.

[0112] Here, the control of the sub-control CPU 31a when deciding to execute the special hold effect and the specific hold effect will be explained. The sub-control CPU 31a executes the second effect determination process in response to input of a look-ahead command from the main control CPU 30a, thereby determining whether or not to execute the special hold effect and the specific hold effect.

[0113] 7, when the sub-control CPU 31a inputs a look-ahead command, it determines whether or not the look-ahead command is a look-ahead command that can identify a jackpot win (step S20). If the look-ahead command is a look-ahead command that can identify a jackpot win (step S20: YES), the sub-control CPU 31a determines whether or not the special game being executed is a special game in which the drop lottery has been won (step S21).

[0114] If the special game being executed is not the special game that won the fall lottery (step S21: NO), the sub-control CPU 31a executes a special hold effect lottery to determine whether or not to execute a special hold effect, and determines whether or not the special hold effect lottery has been won (step S22). If the special hold effect lottery has been won (step S22: YES), the sub-control CPU 31a sets a special hold effect determination flag indicating that the execution of the special hold effect has been decided in a predetermined storage area in the sub-control RAM 31c (step S23). After that, the sub-control CPU 31a ends the second effect determination process.

[0115] On the other hand, if the special game being executed is a special game that has won the falling lottery (step S21: YES), the sub-control CPU 31a ends the second effect determination process without deciding to execute the special reserved effect. Similarly, if the special reserved effect lottery has not been won (step S22: NO), the sub-control CPU 31a ends the second effect determination process without deciding to execute the special reserved effect.

[0116] If the command is not a look-ahead command for winning a jackpot (step S20: NO), the sub-control CPU 31a determines whether the look-ahead command can identify winning the drop lottery (step S24). If the command is a look-ahead command for winning the drop lottery (step S24: YES), the sub-control CPU 31a determines whether the special game being executed is a special game for winning a jackpot (step S25).

[0117] If the currently running special game is a special game that will result in a jackpot (step S25: NO), the sub-control CPU 31a determines whether the current game state is a second high probability state (step S26). If the current game state is a second high probability state (step S26: YES), the sub-control CPU 31a executes a specific hold effect lottery to determine whether or not to execute a specific hold effect, and determines whether or not the specific hold effect lottery has been won (step S27). If the specific hold effect lottery has been won (step S27: YES), the sub-control CPU 31a sets a specific hold effect determination flag, which indicates that the execution of the specific hold effect has been decided, in a predetermined storage area in the sub-control RAM 31c (step S28). Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 31a ends the second effect determination process.

[0118] On the other hand, if it is not a pre-reading command that will win the fall lottery (step S24: NO), the sub-control CPU31a ends the second effect determination process without deciding to execute the specific hold effect. Also, if the special game being executed is a special game that will win a jackpot (step S25: YES), the sub-control CPU31a similarly ends the second effect determination process without deciding to execute the specific hold effect. Furthermore, if the current game state is not the second high probability state (step S26: NO), the sub-control CPU31a similarly ends the second effect determination process without deciding to execute the specific hold effect. And, if the specific hold effect lottery is not won (step S27: NO), the sub-control CPU31a similarly ends the second effect determination process without deciding to execute the specific hold effect.

[0119] Thereafter, the sub-control CPU31a performs control based on the determination content of the second effect determination process so as to execute the special reserve effect and the specific reserve effect before the start of the special game corresponding to the inputted look-ahead command.

[0120] By such control, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU31a can control to execute the special hold effect when the reserved special games include a special game that will win a jackpot in a special lottery. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when the drop-out lottery is won, the sub-control CPU31a does not execute the special hold effect during the execution of the special game that won the drop-out lottery, even if the reserved special games include a special game that will win a jackpot.

[0121] Also, by such control, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU31a can control to execute a specific hold effect when a special game that wins the drop lottery is included in the reserved special games. Also, in this embodiment, when a jackpot is won in the special win lottery, the sub-control CPU31a does not execute a specific hold effect during the execution of the special game that won the jackpot, even if a special game that wins the drop lottery is included in the reserved special games.

[0122] The effects of this embodiment will be described. (1) In this embodiment, the probability that the game state will transition to the second low-probability state upon winning the final result can be made different between the first fall-out lottery and the second fall-out lottery. This makes the transition of the game state more complex, thereby increasing interest in the game.

[0123] (2) In this embodiment, if the special games on hold include a special game that will result in a jackpot, the specific winning effect will not be executed even if the player wins the drop lottery. For example, even if the player is controlled to the first low probability state or the second low probability state after winning the drop lottery during the second high probability state, the specific winning effect will not be executed if the player subsequently wins a jackpot in a special game on hold, which prevents the player from being overly disappointed.

[0124] (3) In this embodiment, a specific winning effect is executed with different effect content depending on the game state when the fall lottery is won. Accordingly, in this embodiment, a specific winning effect is executed with different effect content depending on whether the game state is changed from the first low-probability state or the second low-probability state to the first low-probability state or the second low-probability state, as a result of winning the fall lottery during the second high-probability state, to the first low-probability state or the second low-probability state, and therefore, a specific winning effect can be executed with appropriate effect content depending on the transition of the game state.

[0125] (4) When controlled to the second high probability state, the main control CPU 30a may terminate the second high probability state when the player wins the drop lottery, but will not terminate the second high probability state when the player wins the jackpot. For this reason, in this embodiment, when controlled to the second high probability state, more attention can be paid to whether or not the player wins the drop lottery.

[0126] (5) In this embodiment, when a special game that has been won in the drop lottery is being played, the special reserved effect is not executed even if the reserved special games include a special game that will result in a jackpot. This prevents a player from being disappointed by, for example, a case in which a drop lottery is won in the currently playing special game and the game is controlled to the first or second low-probability state despite the special reserved effect being executed during the second high-probability state.

[0127] (6) In this embodiment, if the special game on hold includes a special game that results in a winning lottery, the special winning effect is not executed even if a jackpot is won. This prevents a player from being disappointed by, for example, the second high-probability state in which a special winning effect is executed, and then the player is immediately won in the lottery and the game is controlled to the second low-probability state.

[0128] (7) In this embodiment, when a special game resulting in a jackpot is being executed, the specific reserved effect is not executed even if the reserved special games include a special game resulting in a win in the drop lottery. For example, even if the reserved special games in the second high probability state include a special game resulting in a win in the drop lottery, the specific reserved effect is not executed during the execution of the special game resulting in a win in the jackpot, allowing the player to enjoy the special game resulting in a win in the jackpot.

[0129] (8) In this embodiment, the second low-probability state ends when the special game is executed the number of times it is activated, while the second high-probability state may continue even after the special game is executed the number of times it is activated, thereby increasing the interest of players who expect the second high-probability state to continue for a long time.

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

[0131] This may be embodied in a gaming machine that controls to the second open state when a specific symbol other than the jackpot is selected in a special lottery. In this case, regardless of whether the specific symbol is selected in any gaming state, the game may be controlled to the second low-probability state. For example, the main control CPU 30a may control to the second low-probability state when a specific symbol is selected, regardless of whether the game is in the second high-probability state, which is more advantageous to the player than the second low-probability state, or the first low-probability state, which is less advantageous to the player than the second low-probability state. This allows the game machine to diversify the game state transitions, providing enjoyment for the player. In this case, the specific symbol corresponds to the specific result, and the first low-probability state corresponds to the special gaming state. In addition, the main control CPU 30a may perform control so that a specific symbol is not won when the probability is high, or may perform control so that a specific symbol can be won even when the probability is high, but the game state is not changed even when a specific symbol is won.

[0132] When embodied in a gaming machine that is controlled to the second opening state upon winning a specific symbol, the probability of winning a specific symbol in the first special win lottery and the probability of winning a specific symbol in the second special win lottery may be the same or different. For example, the probability of winning a specific symbol in the second special win lottery may be higher than the probability of winning a specific symbol in the first special win lottery. Also, it may be possible to win a specific result in either the first or second special win lottery, but not in the other special win lottery. For example, it may be possible to win a specific result in the second special win lottery, but not in the first special win lottery.

[0133] When the present invention is embodied in a gaming machine that is controlled to the second open state upon winning a specific symbol, the sub-control CPU31a may execute, as the specific winning effect, an effect to notify that a specific symbol has been won, instead of an effect to notify that a roll-down lottery has been won. Also, the sub-control CPU31a may execute, as the specific pending effect, an effect to notify that a special game that will win a specific symbol is included among the pending special games, instead of an effect to notify that a special game that will win the roll-down lottery is included among the pending special games.

[0134] When the present invention is embodied in a gaming machine that is controlled to the second open state upon winning a specific symbol, the sub-control CPU 31a may control the game machine not to execute the special winning effect when a special game in which a specific symbol is won is included in the special games that are pending. Also, the sub-control CPU 31a may control the game machine not to execute the special pending effect when a special game in which a specific symbol is won is being played.

[0135] The conditions for executing the special winning effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 31a may control the special winning effect to be executable even if the pending special games include a special game that results in a winning drop lottery. The sub-control CPU 31a may also enable the special winning effect to be executed even if a jackpot has not been won in the special winning lottery. In this case, the sub-control CPU 31a may change the ratio for determining whether to execute the special winning effect when a jackpot has been won in the special winning lottery and when a jackpot has not been won. In other words, the special winning effect does not have to be an effect that confirms a jackpot, but may instead be an effect that notifies the player of the likelihood of a jackpot. The sub-control CPU 31a may also change the possibility of executing the special winning effect and its execution probability depending on the game status. The sub-control CPU 31a may also change whether to execute the special winning effect when a jackpot has been won in the special winning lottery depending on the type of special winning lottery. For example, if a jackpot is won in either the first special winning lottery or the second special winning lottery, a special winning effect may be executed, while if a jackpot is won in the other special winning lottery, the special winning effect may not be executed.

[0136] There may be multiple types of special winning effects. For example, the sub-control CPU 31a may vary the content of the special winning effects depending on the current game state. Furthermore, if the sub-control CPU 31a is capable of executing special winning effects even when the pending special games include a special game that will result in a win in the drop-out lottery, the sub-control CPU 31a may vary the content of the special winning effects depending on whether the pending special games include a special game that will result in a win in the drop-out lottery.

[0137] This may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute special winning effects. The execution conditions for the specific winning effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 31a may control the specific winning effect so that it can be executed even if the pending special games include a special game that will result in a jackpot. The sub-control CPU 31a may also enable the specific winning effect to be executed even if the player has not won the drop-out lottery. In this case, the sub-control CPU 31a may change the ratio for determining whether to execute the specific winning effect depending on whether the player has won the drop-out lottery or not. In other words, the specific winning effect does not have to be an effect that confirms the player's win in the drop-out lottery, but may instead be an effect that notifies the player of the likelihood of winning the drop-out lottery. The sub-control CPU 31a may also change the execution probability and whether to execute the specific winning effect depending on the game status.

[0138] The content of the specific winning effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 31a may execute the specific winning effect with the same content in the first low-probability state or the second low-probability state and in the second high-probability state. The sub-control CPU 31a may also execute the specific winning effect with different content in the first low-probability state and the second low-probability state. Furthermore, if the sub-control CPU 31a is able to execute the specific winning effect even when the pending special games include a special game that results in a drop-out lottery, the sub-control CPU 31a may change the content of the specific winning effect depending on whether the pending special games include a special game that results in a jackpot.

[0139] This may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute a specific winning effect. The execution conditions for the special hold effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 31a may control the execution of the special hold effect even during the execution of a special game in which the drop lottery has been won. The sub-control CPU 31a may also enable the execution of the special hold effect even if the input look-ahead command is not a look-ahead command that can identify a jackpot win. In this case, the sub-control CPU 31a may vary the ratio for determining the execution of the special hold effect depending on whether the input look-ahead command is a look-ahead command that can identify a jackpot win. In other words, the special hold effect does not have to be an effect that confirms a jackpot win, but may instead be an effect that notifies the player of the expected probability of a jackpot win. The sub-control CPU 31a may also vary the execution possibility and execution probability of the special hold effect depending on the game status. The sub-control CPU 31a may also vary whether the special hold effect is executable when the input look-ahead command is a look-ahead command that can identify a jackpot win depending on the type of special game.

[0140] There may be multiple types of special hold effect effects. For example, the sub-control CPU 31a may vary the effect contents of the special hold effect depending on the current game state. In addition, if the sub-control CPU 31a is able to execute the special hold effect even during the execution of a special game that has been won in the drop-out lottery, the sub-control CPU 31a may vary the effect contents of the special hold effect depending on whether or not the special game that has been won in the drop-out lottery is being executed.

[0141] This may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute special hold effects. The execution conditions for the specific hold effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 31a may control the specific hold effect to be executable even during the execution of a special game that has won a jackpot. The sub-control CPU 31a may also enable the specific hold effect to be executed even if the input look-ahead command is not a look-ahead command that can identify winning the drop-out lottery. In this case, the sub-control CPU 31a may vary the ratio for determining the execution of the specific hold effect depending on whether the input look-ahead command is a look-ahead command that can identify winning the drop-out lottery. In other words, the specific hold effect does not have to be an effect that confirms winning the drop-out lottery, but may instead be an effect that notifies the expected probability of winning the drop-out lottery. The sub-control CPU 31a may also control the specific hold effect to be executable in the first low-probability state and the second low-probability state. The sub-control CPU 31a may also vary the possibility of executing the specific hold effect and the execution probability depending on the game state. In addition, the sub-control CPU 31a may determine whether or not to execute a specific hold effect when the inputted look-ahead command is a look-ahead command that can identify a win in the drop lottery, depending on the type of special game.

[0142] There may be multiple types of specific hold effect effects. For example, the sub-control CPU 31a may vary the specific hold effect effects depending on the current game state. In addition, when the sub-control CPU 31a is able to execute specific hold effects even during the execution of a special game that has won a jackpot, the sub-control CPU 31a may vary the specific hold effect effects depending on whether or not the special game that has won a jackpot is being executed.

[0143] This may also be embodied in gaming machines that do not execute specific hold effects. The number and types of presentation modes may be changed as appropriate. For example, multiple presentation modes may be provided as controllable presentation modes in a predetermined game state. Furthermore, for example, in the second high-probability state, the sub-control CPU 31a may control different presentation modes before the end of the activation number of special games and after the end of the activation number of special games. Furthermore, during the period from when the sub-control CPU 31a is controlled to the second high-probability state until the end of the activation number of special games, the sub-control CPU 31a may control the same presentation mode when the sub-control CPU 31a is controlled to the second high-probability state without winning the drop-out lottery and when the sub-control CPU 31a is controlled to the second low-probability state after winning the drop-out lottery.

[0144] The number and type of jackpots may be changed as appropriate. For example, a jackpot may be provided that is controlled to a game state other than the second high-probability state after the end of a jackpot game. Specifically, a jackpot may be provided that is controlled to the first high-probability state after the end of a jackpot game, or a jackpot may be provided that is controlled to the second low-probability state, or a jackpot may be provided that is controlled to the first low-probability state. In other words, the second high-probability state may be ended when a jackpot is won.

[0145] The main control CPU 30a may be configured to terminate the second high-probability state when a special game is executed the number of times activated after control to the second high-probability state, even if the player has not won the drop-down lottery. In this case, the main control CPU 30a may control the game state to the first high-probability state when the special game is executed the number of times activated after control to the second high-probability state. In other words, the main control CPU 30a may be configured to transition the game state when the special game is executed the number of times activated, regardless of whether the game state is controlled to the second high-probability state or the second low-probability state.

[0146] There may be multiple activation counts when the machine is controlled to the second opening state. For example, the main control CPU 30a may vary the activation count when the machine is controlled to the second opening state depending on the type of jackpot. Furthermore, when embodied in a gaming machine that controls the machine to the second opening state upon winning a specific symbol, the main control CPU 30a may vary the activation count when the machine is controlled to the second opening state upon winning a jackpot and when the machine is controlled to the second opening state upon winning a specific symbol. For example, the main control CPU 30a may set a first activation count when the machine is controlled to the second opening state upon winning a jackpot, and a second activation count less than the first activation count when the machine is controlled to the second opening state upon winning a specific symbol. According to this, the main control CPU 30a can control the reel to a second opening state in which the second number of activations is set as the trigger for winning a jackpot, and can control the reel to a second opening state in which the first number of activations is set as the trigger for winning a specific symbol. In this example, the second opening state in which the first number of activations is set corresponds to the first game state, while the second opening state in which the second number of activations is set corresponds to the second game state, which is more advantageous for the player than the first game state. In this example, the second number of activations corresponds to the specific number of activations. In this case, the main control CPU 30a may control the reel to a first opening state in which the first number of activations is set as the trigger for winning a specific symbol, regardless of whether the specific symbol is won during the second opening state in which the second number of activations is set as the trigger, or during the first opening state in which the specific symbol is won. In this example, the first opening state corresponds to a special game state.

[0147] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that is controlled to the second opening state upon the establishment of a count condition in which a predetermined number of special games are played without awarding a jackpot game during the first opening state. In this case, the main control CPU 30a may set the number of operations when the second opening state is controlled upon the establishment of the count condition to be the same as or a different number from the number of operations when the second opening state is controlled upon winning a jackpot. Also, if the second opening state can be controlled upon winning a specific symbol, the main control CPU 30a may set the number of operations when the second opening state is controlled upon the establishment of the count condition to be the same as or a different number from the number of operations when the second opening state is controlled upon winning a specific symbol.

[0148] The main control CPU 30a may execute the falling lottery when the probability is high, but may not execute the falling lottery when the probability is low. The probability of winning the drop-out lottery can be changed as appropriate. For example, the probability of winning the drop-out lottery may be the same for the first drop-out lottery and the second drop-out lottery.

[0149] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine having a setting function that changes the probability of winning by setting one of a plurality of setting values ​​that determine the probability of winning. The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that provides a high probability state when a gaming ball is detected by a specific sensor. Also, the present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that provides a high probability state with an upper limit of the number of times a special game is executed after a jackpot game has ended until the number of times a special game is executed reaches a predetermined number of times (so-called ST machine).

[0150] The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine having three or more types of probability states as its probability state. Also, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine having one type of probability state as its probability state. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine that does not have a probability variation function that varies the probability of winning a jackpot in a special lottery.

[0151] The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine (a so-called type 1 / type 2 mixed machine) that awards a jackpot game when a gaming ball is detected by a specific sensor. The sub-control board 31 may be a sub-integrated control board, and a display control board that specializes in controlling the performance display device 12, an audio control board that specializes in controlling the speaker Sp, and a lamp control board that specializes in controlling the decorative lamp La may be provided separately from the sub-control board 31. Also, some or all of the display control board, audio control board, and lamp control board may be the same board. Also, the sub-control CPU 31a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0152] The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be provided with a single control board that integrates the functions of the main control board 30 and the sub-control board 31. The functions of the main control board 30 may also be realized by dividing them into multiple boards. The main control CPU 30a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0153] The maximum number of rounds of play in a jackpot game, the opening time of the big prize opening, and the number of times the big prize opening is opened may be changed as appropriate. The present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine having multiple big prize slots.

[0154] The first special game and the second special game may be played in accordance with the order in which the game balls enter the starting holes 13, 14, or may be played simultaneously in parallel. The second special game may also be omitted.

[0155] The present invention may be applied to a pachinko gaming machine that does not execute a special effect game. In this case, it is preferable to display a special symbol on the effect display device 12. The technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described.

[0156] (A) A gaming machine that executes a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a special lottery using random numbers, and that awards a jackpot game if a jackpot result is won in the special lottery, the gaming machine comprising: a special lottery means that executes the special lottery; and a game state control means that controls the game state, the game state including a first game state and a second game state that is more advantageous to the player than the first game state, and the game state control means controls the game state if a player wins the jackpot result in the special lottery. a gaming machine that can be controlled to enter the second gaming state when a specific result different from the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, but is uncontrollable to enter the first gaming state; a gaming machine that can be controlled to enter the first gaming state when a specific result different from the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, but is uncontrollable to enter the second gaming state; the special lottery includes a first special lottery and a second special lottery, and the probability of winning the specific result in the second special lottery is higher than the probability of winning the specific result in the first special lottery.

[0157] (b) A hold control means is provided which is capable of controlling the hold of the execution of the variable game, and a presentation control means which is capable of controlling presentation, and the presentation control means is capable of controlling the execution of a special hold presentation when the held variable games include a variable game which wins the jackpot result in the special lottery, and when the specific result is won in the special lottery, the special hold presentation is not executed during the execution of the variable game which is executed based on the special lottery which won the specific result, even if the held variable games include a variable game which wins the jackpot result in the special lottery.

[0158] (c) A hold control means is provided which is capable of controlling the suspension of the execution of the variable game, and a presentation control means which is capable of controlling presentation, and the presentation control means is capable of controlling the execution of a special winning presentation during the execution of the variable game which is executed based on the result of the special lottery when the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, and when the suspended variable games include a variable game which wins the specific result in the special lottery, the special winning presentation is not executed even when the jackpot result is won in the special lottery.

[0159] (ii) A hold control means is provided which is capable of controlling the hold of the execution of the variable game, and a presentation control means which is capable of controlling presentation, and the presentation control means is capable of controlling the execution of a specific hold presentation when the held variable games include a variable game that wins the specific result in the special lottery, and when the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, the specific hold presentation is not executed during the execution of the variable game that is executed based on the special lottery that wins the jackpot result, even if the held variable games include a variable game that wins the specific result in the special lottery.

[0160] (e) A gaming machine that executes a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a special lottery using random numbers, and that awards a jackpot game when a jackpot result is won in the special lottery, the gaming machine comprising: a special lottery means that executes the special lottery; and a gaming state control means that controls the gaming state, the gaming state including a first gaming state and a second gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the first gaming state, the gaming state control means being capable of controlling the game to the second gaming state when the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, and being capable of controlling the game to the first gaming state when a specific result different from the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, and when controlling to the first gaming state, A gaming machine characterized in that the game state is controlled to the first game state up to the time when a specific number of variable games have been executed, and when controlled to the second game state, the game state can be continued to be controlled to the second game state even after the specific number of variable games have been executed, the special lottery includes a first special lottery and a second special lottery, the probability of winning the specific result in the second special lottery is higher than the probability of winning the specific result in the first special lottery, the game state includes a special game state that is more disadvantageous to the player than the first game state and the second game state, and the game state control means can control to the first game state when the same specific result is won, regardless of whether the game state is the second game state or the special game state.

[0161] (F) A gaming machine that executes a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a special lottery using random numbers, and that awards a jackpot game when a jackpot result is won in the special lottery, the gaming machine comprising: a special lottery means for executing the special lottery; and a gaming state control means for controlling a gaming state, the gaming states being a first gaming state and a second gaming state that is more advantageous to a player than the first gaming state, the gaming state control means being capable of controlling the game to the second gaming state when the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, and being capable of controlling the game to the first gaming state when a specific result different from the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, The game machine is characterized in that the state termination conditions include a number termination condition in which a predetermined number of variable games are executed, the second game state termination condition includes a specific termination condition in which the specific result is won, the special lottery includes a first special lottery and a second special lottery, the probability of winning the specific result in the second special lottery is higher than the probability of winning the specific result in the first special lottery, the game state includes a special game state that is more disadvantageous to the player than the first game state and the second game state, and the game state control means is capable of controlling the game machine to the first game state when the same specific result is won in either the second game state or the special game state. [Explanation of symbols]

[0162] A1...First actuator A2...Second actuator GH...Image display unit HD...Firing handle La...Decorative lamp R1...First path R1a...Left side area R2...Second path R2a...Right side area SE1...First start sensor SE2...Second start sensor SE3...Count sensor SE4...Gate sensor Sp...Speaker YB...Game board YBa...Game area 10...Pachinko game machine 11...Information display device 11a...First special symbol display unit 11b...Second special symbol display unit 11c...First special hold display unit 11d...Second special hold display unit 11e...Normal symbol display unit 11f...Normal hold display unit 12...Performance display device 13...First start port 14...Second start port 15...First variable member 16...Big prize port 17...Second variable member 18...Gate 30...Main control board 30a...Main control CPU (special lottery means, game state control means, hold control means) 30b...Main control ROM 30c...Main control RAM 31...Sub-control board 31a...Sub-control CPU (performance control means, mode control means) 31b...Sub-control ROM 31c...Sub-control RAM

Claims

[Claim 1] A gaming machine that executes a variable game in which symbols are varied based on the result of a special lottery using random numbers, and that can execute control regarding the game state based on the result of the special lottery, special lottery means for executing the special lottery; A game state control means for controlling the game state; A performance control means capable of controlling performance, The gaming states include a first gaming state and a second gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the first gaming state, The second gaming state is a gaming state in which a specific game can be executed more times than the first gaming state, The game state control means The game machine can be controlled to the second gaming state when a jackpot result is won in the special lottery, and can be controlled to the first gaming state when a specific result different from the jackpot result is won in the special lottery, The special lottery includes a first special lottery and a second special lottery, The probability of winning the specific result in the second special lottery is higher than the probability of winning the specific result in the first special lottery, The gaming state includes a special gaming state that is more disadvantageous to the player than the first gaming state and the second gaming state, The gaming state control means is capable of controlling the gaming state to the first gaming state when the same specific result is won, regardless of whether the gaming state is the second gaming state or the special gaming state, The performance control means When the specific result is won in the special lottery, it is possible to control to execute a specific winning effect, The specific winning effect is an effect that is executed in response to winning the specific result, The gaming machine is characterized in that the specific winning presentation executed when controlled to the first gaming state and the specific winning presentation executed when controlled to the second gaming state are executed with different presentation contents.

Images