Pinball game machine

Abstract

To enhance interest in a game through a notice performance customization function in a pinball game machine.SOLUTION: When reservation storage permitting winning of a special game in reception of a change in an adjustment mode does not exist, notice performance means starts application of an adjustment mode after the change and adjustment mode notification means starts notification of the adjustment mode after the change according to start of a first special pattern variation display caused by entry of game balls into a start pocket occurring after the reception of a change in the adjustment mode. When reservation storage permitting winning of the special game in reception of a change in the adjustment mode exists, the notice performance means starts application of the adjustment mode after the change and the adjustment mode notification means starts notification of the adjustment mode after the change according to start of a second special pattern variation display caused by reservation storage permitting winning of the special game.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 20

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This specification discloses a technique relating to a pinball gaming machine (also called a pachinko gaming machine or pachinko machine). [Background technology]

[0002] Known pinball gaming machines are those that execute advance notice effects that notify the occurrence of predetermined states such as reach, jackpot, etc. Patent Document 1 describes a advance notice effect customization function that allows players to adjust the implementation of the advance notice effect (for example, the frequency of occurrence and reliability of the advance notice effect) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-175334 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] From the perspective of increasing the interest in the game, there was room for improvement in the preview performance customization function. [Means for solving the problem]

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

[0006] (1) In one embodiment of the pinball game machine disclosed in this specification, the pinball game machine comprises a reserve memory means for holding information generated based on the ball entering the starting hole as a reserve memory; a win / loss determination means for determining whether the ball has won based on the reserve memory; a special pattern display means for displaying a special pattern in a variable manner and then displaying a fixed special pattern according to the result of the win / loss determination; a special game means for displaying a special pattern in a variable manner according to the result of the determination if the result of the win / loss determination is a win in the special game and then executing the special game; a notice performance means for performing a notice performance that warns of the occurrence of a predetermined state based on the information; an adjustment mode acceptance means for accepting from a player a change in the adjustment mode that adjusts the implementation of the notice performance; and an adjustment mode notification means for notifying the player of the changed adjustment mode. In this pinball gaming machine, if there is no reserved memory that will result in a win of the special game when the adjustment mode change is accepted, the advance notice performance means starts applying the changed adjustment mode and the adjustment mode notification means starts notifying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of a special symbol variation display caused by a ball entering the start hole that occurred after the adjustment mode change is accepted. If there is reserved memory that will result in a win of the special game when the adjustment mode change is accepted, the adjustment mode notification means starts notifying the changed adjustment mode from the time the adjustment mode change is accepted and before the special symbol variation display caused by a ball entering the start hole that occurred after the adjustment mode change is accepted. According to this type of pinball gaming machine, depending on whether or not the notification of the changed adjustment mode is implemented from the time of accepting the change of the adjustment mode until the special symbol variation display caused by the ball entering the starting hole that occurred after the acceptance of the change of the adjustment mode, if the changed adjustment mode is not announced, it can be suggested to the player that they have won the special game, and if the changed adjustment mode is not announced, it can be suggested to the player that they have lost. As a result, the interest in the game can be increased through the preview effect customization function.

[0007] (2) In one embodiment of the pinball game machine disclosed in this specification, the pinball game machine comprises a reserve memory means for holding information generated based on the ball entering the starting hole as a reserve memory; a win / loss determination means for determining whether the ball has won based on the reserve memory; a special pattern display means for displaying a special pattern in a variable manner and then displaying a fixed special pattern according to the result of the win / loss determination; a special game means for displaying a special pattern in a variable manner according to the result of the determination if the result of the win / loss determination is a win in the special game and then executing the special game; a notice performance means for performing a notice performance that warns of the occurrence of a predetermined state based on the information; an adjustment mode acceptance means for accepting from the player a change in the adjustment mode that adjusts the implementation of the notice performance; and an adjustment mode notification means for notifying the player of the changed adjustment mode. In this pinball gaming machine, if there is no reserved memory that will result in a win of the special game when the adjustment mode change is accepted, the advance notice performance means starts applying the changed adjustment mode and the adjustment mode notification means starts notifying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of a first special symbol variation display caused by a ball entering the start hole that occurred after the adjustment mode change was accepted. If there is reserved memory that will result in a win of the special game when the adjustment mode change is accepted, the advance notice performance means starts applying the changed adjustment mode and the adjustment mode notification means starts notifying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of a second special symbol variation display caused by a reserved memory that will result in a win of the special game. The advance notice performance means forcibly executes the advance notice performance of the changed adjustment mode while the second special symbol variation display is being implemented. According to this type of pinball gaming machine, depending on whether or not the notification of the changed adjustment mode is implemented in response to the start of the special symbol variable display due to the reserved memory existing at the time of accepting the change of the adjustment mode, if the changed adjustment mode is not notified, it can suggest to the player that they have won the special game, and if the changed adjustment mode is not notified, it can suggest that they have lost. Furthermore, since the preview effect of the changed adjustment mode is forcibly executed while the second special symbol variable display is being implemented, it is possible to prevent the player from overlooking the hint that they have won the special game. As a result, the preview effect customization function can increase the enjoyment of the game.

[0008] (3) In one embodiment, the pinball game machine disclosed in this specification comprises a reserve memory means for holding information generated based on the ball entering the starting hole as a reserve memory; a win / loss determination means for executing a win / loss determination based on the reserve memory; a special pattern display means for executing a special pattern variation display that displays a special pattern in a variable manner and then confirms the display of a special pattern according to the result of the win / loss determination; a special game means for executing the special game after displaying a special pattern in a variable manner according to the result of the determination if the result of the win / loss determination is a win in the special game; a notice performance means for executing a notice performance that warns of the occurrence of a predetermined state based on the information; an adjustment mode acceptance means for accepting from a player a change in the adjustment mode that adjusts the implementation of the notice performance; and an adjustment mode notification means for notifying the player of the changed adjustment mode. In this pinball gaming machine, if there is no reserved memory that will result in a win of the special game when the adjustment mode change is accepted, the advance notice presentation means starts applying the changed adjustment mode and the adjustment mode notification means starts notifying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of a first special symbol variation display caused by a ball entering the start hole that occurred after the acceptance of the adjustment mode change. If there is a reserved memory that will result in a win of the special game when the adjustment mode change is accepted, the adjustment mode notification means starts notifying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of a second special symbol variation display caused by a reserved memory that will result in a win of the special game, and then the advance notice presentation means starts applying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of a third special symbol variation display that is implemented after the second special symbol variation display. According to this type of pinball gaming machine, depending on whether or not the notification of the changed adjustment mode is implemented in response to the start of the special symbol variation display due to the reserved memory existing at the time of accepting the change of the adjustment mode, if the changed adjustment mode is not announced, it can be suggested to the player that he has won the special game, and if the changed adjustment mode is not announced, it can be suggested to the player that he has lost. As a result, the interest in the game can be increased through the preview effect customization function.

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

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view showing the configuration of a pachinko gaming machine. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a rear view showing the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the game board of the pachinko game machine. [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine. FIG. [Figure 5] 4 is a flowchart showing a main routine executed by the main control device. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the special chart start ball entry confirmation process executed by the main control unit. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the normal start goal confirmation process executed by the main control unit. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the special drawing correctness determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart showing the special drawing correctness determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart showing the special drawing correctness determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart showing the special drawing correctness determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart showing the special drawing correctness determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing the jackpot game processing executed by the main control device. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing the jackpot game processing executed by the main control device. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing the jackpot game processing executed by the main control device. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing the general map correctness determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart showing the general map correctness determination process executed by the main control device. [Figure 18] 4 is a flowchart showing a normal power operation process executed by the main control device. [Figure 19] 4 is a flowchart showing a normal power operation process executed by the main control device. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a main control device and a sub-integrated control device. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a performance display. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a performance display. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a performance display. [Figure 24] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a presentation display when the first reserved memory is a miss. [Figure 25] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a presentation display when the first reserved memory is a jackpot. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0025] In this embodiment, when changing the game characteristic settings of the pachinko gaming machine 10, the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 10 inserts a key into the setting change switch 302 and turns the setting change switch 302 to the first position (ON state) before powering on the pachinko gaming machine 10. When the pachinko gaming machine 10 is then powered on, the main control device 210 determines that the pachinko gaming machine 10 is in an enabled state in which game characteristic setting changes can be accepted. In this enabled state, the main control device 210 adds 1 to the current setting number each time the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 10 presses the setting change switch 304. For example, each time the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 10 presses the setting change switch 304, the main control device 210 changes the setting number in the order from Setting 1 to Setting 2, Setting 3, Setting 4, Setting 5, and Setting 6, and then changes the setting number from Setting 6 back to Setting 1. Thereafter, when the administrator of the pachinko game machine 10 turns the setting changeover switch 302 to the second position (off state), the main control unit 210 stops accepting input from the setting changeover switch 302 and confirms the setting number accepted immediately before that as the changed setting.

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

[0027] The surface 402 of the game board 400 faces the front of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The guide rails 404, 406 of the game board 400 surround the center of the board 402 in a circular shape, forming a substantially circular game area GA. The game area GA includes a left-hand game area GA1 and a right-hand game area GA2. The left-hand game area GA1 constitutes the left side of the game area GA and is a first game area where game balls launched with a launch intensity below a predetermined value mainly roll. The right-hand game area GA2 constitutes the right side of the game area GA and is a second game area where game balls launched with a launch intensity above a predetermined value mainly roll. The multiple game nails 408 on the game board 400 are planted on the surface 402 and form a path for game balls to flow through the game area GA. The multiple game nails 408 include a windmill nail 409 having a rotating member.

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

[0029] The illuminations 414 on the game board 400 light up as the game progresses. In this embodiment, the illuminations 414 are provided on the center case 410. In other embodiments, the illuminations 414 may be provided directly on the board surface 402.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0044] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an electrical configuration that outputs signals to the main control device 210, including a setting selector switch 302 and a setting change switch 304, as well as a normal winning hole switch 420s, an activation gate switch 430s, a first start hole switch 451s, a second start hole switch 452s, and a count switch 460s. The normal winning hole switch 420s detects the entry of a gaming ball into the normal winning holes 421, 422, 423, and 424, and outputs a detection signal to the main control device 210. The activation gate switch 430s detects the passage of a gaming ball through the normal symbol activation gate 430, and outputs a detection signal to the main control device 210. The first start hole switch 451s detects the entry of a gaming ball into the first start hole 451, and outputs a detection signal to the main control device 210. The second start opening switch 452s detects the entry of a gaming ball into the second start opening 452, and outputs a detection signal to the main control device 210. The count switch 460s detects the entry of a gaming ball into the big prize opening 460, and outputs a detection signal to the main control device 210.

[0045] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an electric component solenoid 440d and a special prize opening solenoid 460d in addition to a normal symbol display device 471, a normal symbol reserve display device 472, a first special symbol display device 473, a first special symbol reserve display device 474, a second special symbol display device 475, and a second special symbol reserve display device 476 as electrical components that operate based on control signals from the main control device 210. The normal symbol solenoid 440d opens and closes the normal electric component 440 based on control signals from the main control device 210. The special prize opening solenoid 460d opens and closes the special prize opening 460 based on control signals from the main control device 210.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0054] When a pachinko gaming machine 10 wins a jackpot in the lottery for the first special symbol or the lottery for the second special symbol, it executes a jackpot game (special game) in which the first large prize opening 460 is opened and closed. After the jackpot game ends, the game state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 transitions to a probability variable game based on the type of special symbol that caused the jackpot game. The probability of transitioning to a probability variable game after the jackpot game ends (probability variable award rate) is set in advance. In normal game, the probability of winning a jackpot is set to a normal probability (low probability). In probability variable game, the probability of winning a jackpot is set to a higher probability than the normal probability. In probability variable game, it is easier for a game ball to enter the second starting opening 452 than in normal game (so-called "electric support"). The duration of the probability variation game is the period until the next jackpot game is played, or the period until the predetermined number of times (150 times in this embodiment) of special symbol lotteries are played. The specifications for the jackpot and probability variation game in this embodiment are as follows. First special symbol jackpot winning probability Regular game 1 / 319 Chance game 1 / 74 Probability of winning the jackpot for the second special symbol Regular game 1 / 319 Chance game 1 / 74 probability of winning 1st special design 50% 2nd special design 100%

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0072] In the win determination random number update process (step S40), the main control device 210 updates the win determination random numbers used to determine whether a normal symbol wins. In this embodiment, the win determination random numbers are 65,536 random numbers that take values ​​in the range of "0 to 65,535". The main control device 210 is configured to be able to adjust the win probability of a normal symbol by setting a predetermined number of values ​​among the win determination random numbers as values ​​that result in a win for a normal symbol.

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

[0074] In the process of updating the random numbers for determining the normal symbol variation pattern (step S44), the main control device 210 updates the random numbers for determining the normal symbol variation pattern used to determine the normal symbol variation pattern. In this embodiment, the random numbers for determining the normal symbol variation pattern are 16,384 random numbers that take values ​​in the range of "0 to 16,383".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0086] After executing the special symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S120), the main control device 210 executes reserved symbol pre-reading determination process (step S130). In the reserved symbol pre-reading determination process (step S130), the main control device 210 executes pre-reading determination to determine the result of the pre-reading determination based on the reserved symbol memory prior to the hit / miss determination process (step S52) for the reserved symbol memory of the first special symbol, and transmits a reserved symbol pre-reading command indicating the result of the pre-reading determination to the sub-integrated control device 220. In this embodiment, the results of the pre-reading determination include "jackpot," "miss with super reach effect," "miss with normal reach effect," and "miss without reach effect." Based on the reserved symbol pre-reading command, the sub-integrated control device 220 then executes a pre-reading effect that indicates the result of the pre-reading determination. After executing the reserved symbol pre-reading determination process (step S130), the main control device 210 checks whether the ball has entered the second starting hole 452 (step S100b).

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

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

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

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

[0091] After executing the special symbol reserved number command transmission process (step S120b), the main control device 210 executes reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130b). In the reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130b), prior to the hit / miss judgment process (step S52) for the reserved memory of the second special symbol, the main control device 210 executes pre-reading judgment to judge the judgment result of the hit / miss judgment based on the reserved memory, and transmits a reserved pre-reading command indicating the judgment result of the pre-reading judgment to the sub-integrated control device 220. As a result, the sub-integrated control device 220 executes pre-reading performance suggesting the judgment result of the pre-reading judgment based on the reserved pre-reading command. After executing the reserved pre-reading judgment process (step S130b), the main control device 210 ends the special symbol start entry confirmation process (Fig. 6). In addition, in the special chart start entry confirmation process (Figure 6), the reserve pre-reading judgment process (step S130) may be a process executed before the special chart extraction random number reserve storage process (step S110), and the reserve pre-reading judgment process (step S130b) may be a process executed before the special chart extraction random number reserve storage process (step S110b).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0100] If the special symbol is not being displayed in a variable manner (step S205: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether the special symbol is being displayed in a fixed manner (step S210).

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

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

[0103] After processing the reserved memory (step S220), the main control device 210 determines whether the probability variable flag Fk is set to the value "1" (step S225). The probability variable flag Fk is a flag that controls the probability of winning a special symbol. A probability variable flag Fk of the value "0" indicates a normal mode in which the probability of winning a special symbol is controlled to the normal probability. A probability variable flag Fk of the value "1" indicates a probability variable mode in which the probability of winning a special symbol is controlled to a high probability. The probability variable flag Fk is set to the initial value "0" in the initial setting process (step S20) of the main routine (Fig. 5), and is set to the value "0" or "1" depending on the type of jackpot symbol when the jackpot game ends.

[0104] If the special rate flag Fk is set to the value "1" (step S225: "YES"), the main control unit 210 determines whether the random number for determining a jackpot read from the reserved memory is a jackpot value by referring to the special rate mode hit / miss determination table (special rate table) (step S230).

[0105] If the special chance flag Fk is set to the value "0" (step S225: "NO"), the main control unit 210 determines whether the random number for determining a jackpot read from the reserved memory is a jackpot value by referring to the special chance determination table (normal table) for normal mode (step S235).

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

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

[0108] If the determination result of the random number for jackpot determination is not a jackpot (step S240: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes the c time-shortening determination process (step S250). In the c time-shortening determination process (step S250), the main control device 210 determines whether or not the random number for jackpot determination read from the reserved memory is a value for the c time-shortening win, which is a trigger for starting the c time-shortening game. After executing the c time-shortening determination process (step S250), the main control device 210 determines whether or not the determination result of the c time-shortening determination process (step S250) is a c time-shortening win (step S252).

[0109] If the result of the determination of the random number for determining a jackpot is a c time-saving winning (step S252: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines a time-saving winning symbol based on the random number for determining the special symbol read from the reserved memory (step S254). Thereafter, the main control device 210 determines whether any of the time-saving games a, b, and c is set (step S256). If the time-saving game is not in progress (step S256: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes a c time-saving winning variation pattern determination process (step S258). In the c time-saving winning variation pattern determination process (step S258), the main control device 210 determines a variation pattern of the special symbol that matches the presentation that notifies the winning of the c time-saving game based on the random number for determining the special symbol and the random number for determining the special symbol variation pattern.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0121] If the special symbol that has been confirmed is a jackpot symbol (step S300: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines whether the probability variable flag Fk is set to a value of "1" (step S302). If the probability variable flag Fk is set to a value of "1" (step S302: "YES"), the main control device 210 resets the probability variable flag Fk to a value of "0" (step S304).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0145] If the accessory continuous operation device is in operation (step S400: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines whether the large prize opening 460 is currently open (step S405). If the large prize opening 460 is not currently open (step S405: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether an interval is currently in progress in which the large prize opening 460 is closed between rounds of the large prize game (step S410). If no interval is currently in progress (step S410: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether a large prize end effect, which is executed when the large prize game ends, is currently being executed (step S415).

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

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

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

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

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

[0151] If the interval time has elapsed (step S450: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines whether the final round in the jackpot game has ended (step S455). If the final round has not ended (step S455: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes a special prize opening process (step S465). In the special prize opening process (step S465), the main control device 210 opens the special prize opening 460 by outputting an opening signal to the special prize opening solenoid 460d. After executing the special prize opening process (step S465), the main control device 210 ends the jackpot game process (FIGS. 13 to 15).

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

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

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

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

[0156] After executing the probability variable counter setting process (step S485), the main control device 210 executes the a time-shortening flag setting process (step S490). In the a time-shortening flag setting process (step S490), the main control device 210 determines whether or not to transition to the a time-shortening game after the jackpot game. If transitioning to the a time-shortening game, the main control device 210 sets the a time-shortening flag Fa to the value "1". If transitioning to the a time-shortening game is not to be made, the main control device 210 sets the a time-shortening flag Fa to the value "0".

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

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

[0159] Thereafter, the main control device 210 executes a jackpot end command transmission process (step S510). In the jackpot end command transmission process (step S510), the main control device 210 transmits a jackpot end command to the sub-integrated control device 220, instructing the end of the effects related to the jackpot game.

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

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

[0162] After starting the normal ticket pass / fail judgment process (FIGS. 16 and 17), the main control device 210 determines whether the normal electric device 440 is operating (step S600). If the normal electric device 440 is operating (step S600: "YES"), the main control device 210 ends the normal ticket pass / fail judgment process (FIGS. 16 and 17).

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

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

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

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

[0167] If the probability variable flag Fk is set to the value "1" (step S625: "YES"), the main control unit 210 determines whether the random number for determining whether a win has been read from the reserved memory is a winning value by referring to the high probability normal winning / losing determination table (high probability table) (step S630).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0181] If the normal electric role 440 is in operation (step S700: "YES"), the main control device 210 determines whether the normal electric role 440 is being opened (step S702). If the normal electric role 440 is not being opened (step S702: "NO"), the main control device 210 determines whether the normal electric role 440 is being closed during an interval when the normal electric role 440 is opened multiple times per win (step S704). If the interval is not being closed (step S704: "NO"), the main control device 210 executes a normal power release process (step S710). In the normal power release process (step S710), the main control device 210 outputs an open signal to the normal electric role solenoid 440d to open the normal electric role 440. After executing the normal power disconnection process (step S710), the main control device 210 ends the normal power operation process (FIGS. 18 and 19).

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0188] 20 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of the main control device 210 and the sub-integrated control device 220. The main control device 210 includes, as components related to the control of game progress, reserve storage means 211, look-ahead determination means 212, win / lose determination means 213, and special game means 214. Each component of the main control device 210 is realized in software based on a computer program. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the various means of the main control device 210 may be realized in hardware based on a circuit configuration.

[0189] The reserve memory means 211 of the main control device 210 is configured to be able to hold information generated based on a ball entering the first start port switch 451s as a first reserve memory. The first special symbol reserve display device 474 displays the number of first reserve memories held in the reserve memory means 211. The reserve memory means 211 is configured to be able to hold information generated based on a ball entering the second start port switch 452s as a second reserve memory. The second special symbol reserve display device 476 displays the number of second reserve memories held in the reserve memory means 211. The reserve memory means 211 is a means for executing a special symbol extraction random number reserve memory process (step S110) and a special symbol extraction random number reserve memory process (step S110b) in the special symbol start ball entry confirmation process (Figure 6).

[0190] The pre-reading determination means 212 of the main control device 210 determines the first and second reserved memories held in the reserved memory means 211 before the correct / incorrect determination by the correct / incorrect determination means 213. The pre-reading determination means 212 is a means for executing the reserved pre-reading determination process (steps S130 and S130b in FIG. 6) of the special chart start ball entry confirmation process.

[0191] The hit / miss determination means 213 of the main control device 210 executes a hit / miss determination based on the first reserved memory. Based on the result of the hit / miss determination, the first special pattern display device 473 executes a special pattern change display that variably displays the first special pattern and then confirms and displays the first special pattern according to the result of the hit / miss determination. The hit / miss determination means 213 executes a hit / miss determination based on the second reserved memory. Based on the result of the hit / miss determination, the second special pattern display device 475 executes a special pattern change display that variably displays the second special pattern and then confirms and displays the second special pattern according to the result of the hit / miss determination. The hit / miss determination means 213 is a means for executing a hit / miss determination (steps S230, S235 in FIG. 8) in the special pattern hit / miss determination process.

[0192] If the result of the hit / miss determination by the hit / miss determination means 216 is a win in the jackpot game (special game), the special game means 214 of the main control device 210 executes the jackpot game after displaying a special symbol variation according to the determination result. The jackpot game is advantageous to the player in that it is easier to win prize balls than in normal games by opening the jackpot winning slot 460. The special game means 214 is a means for executing the jackpot game process (FIGS. 13, 14, and 15). In this embodiment, the game state after the jackpot game transitions to a probability variable game or a time-limited game.

[0193] The command output means 219 of the main control device 210 outputs a command including information related to performance control to the sub-integrated control device 220. The command output from the command output means 219 includes information related to reserved memory, the determination result of the look-ahead determination means 212, the determination result of the win / loss determination means 213, information indicating the start and end of the special symbol variation display, and information related to the progress of the jackpot game. In this embodiment, the command output means 219 outputs commands including information regarding presentation control to the sub-integrated control device 220 in special chart reserve number command transmission processing (step S120 in Figure 6), regular chart reserve number command transmission processing (step S170 in Figure 7), reserve information transmission processing (step S270 in Figure 9), special chart change start processing (step S275 in Figure 9), confirmed pattern display processing (step S285 in Figure 8), jackpot start presentation processing (step S336 in Figure 10), state designation command transmission processing (step S390 in Figure 12), jackpot end command transmission processing (step S510 in Figure 15), state designation command transmission processing (step S520 in Figure 15), etc.

[0194] The sub-integrated control device 220 is configured to receive a look-ahead determination command indicating the result of the look-ahead determination from the main control device 210, and to determine the contents of the reserved memory based on the information included in the look-ahead determination command. The sub-integrated control device 220 includes, as components related to the control of the performance, a notice performance means 222, an adjustment mode reception means 225, and an adjustment mode notification means 228. Each component of the sub-integrated control device 220 is realized in software based on a computer program. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the various means of the sub-integrated control device 220 may be realized in hardware based on a circuit configuration.

[0195] The notice presentation means 222 of the sub-integrated control device 220 executes a notice presentation that predicts the occurrence of a predetermined state based on the information stored as the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory. In this embodiment, the predetermined state predicted by the notice presentation means 222 includes a reach, a super reach, and a big win, and in other embodiments, may include at least one of a time-saving game and a small win. The notice presentation includes a notice presentation based on the determination result of the win / loss determination means 213 (a presentation related to the currently executing special symbol change display) as well as a notice presentation based on the determination result of the pre-reading determination means 212 (a presentation related to the next or subsequent execution of a special symbol change display, so-called "pre-reading presentation"). The notice presentation means 222 cooperates with the presentation pattern control device 230 and the presentation pattern display device 480 to realize the display of a notice presentation on the presentation pattern display device 480 based on a command that controls the execution of the notice presentation transmitted from the main control device 210.

[0196] The adjustment mode acceptance means 225 of the sub-integrated control device 220 accepts from the player a change in the adjustment mode, which adjusts the implementation of the preview effect by the preview effect means 222. In this embodiment, the adjustment mode acceptance means 225 accepts a change in the adjustment mode from the player via the effect button 160. In this embodiment, the period during which a change in the adjustment mode can be accepted is a period during which a predetermined change effect (e.g., reach or super reach) is not being implemented in a gaming state in which a special symbol change display can be implemented. The adjustment mode acceptance means 225 is configured to be able to accept a change in the adjustment mode from the player when a predetermined operation is performed within a predetermined period. In this embodiment, if the effect button 160 is operated (e.g., pressed or rotated) a predetermined number of times during the period during which a change in the adjustment mode can be accepted, the adjustment mode acceptance means 225 accepts a change in the adjustment mode from the player while displaying selectable adjustment modes on the effect symbol display device 480.

[0197] In this embodiment, there are six types of adjustment modes as follows: Note that the number of types of adjustment modes may be more or less than six. Adjustment mode A1 ("recommended mode"): An adjustment mode in which multiple types of preview effects (for example, reserved symbol effects, effects during fluctuations before a reach, effects during fluctuations during a reach, movable role effects, etc.) appear in a balanced manner. · Adjustment mode A2 ("One-shot announcement mode"): An adjustment mode in which the appearance rate of a specific preview effect (an effect that rarely appears in other adjustment modes) becomes extremely high when a special symbol change display is displayed that indicates a jackpot. · Adjustment mode B1 ("Reserved symbol mode 1"): An adjustment mode in which the reliability of the prediction due to changes in the reserved symbol, which is a pre-reading prediction, is relatively low, but the frequency of changes in the reserved symbol occurs relatively high. · Adjustment mode B2 ("Reserved symbol mode 2"): An adjustment mode in which the reliability of the prediction due to changes in the reserved symbol is relatively high, but the frequency of changes in the reserved symbol occurring is relatively low. Adjustment mode B3 ("Reserved symbol mode 3"): This adjustment mode has the average reliability and frequency of adjustment modes B1 and B2 for normal reserved symbol changes, but may also cause special reserved symbol changes with extremely high reliability (for example, changing to red). · Adjustment mode B4 ("Reserved symbol mode 4"): An adjustment mode that does not change the reserved symbol.

[0198] If there is no reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when the change of the adjustment mode is accepted, the notice performance means 222 starts applying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the special symbol variation display SC1 caused by the ball entering the starting hole that occurs after the change of the adjustment mode is accepted.

[0199] If there is a reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when the adjustment mode change is accepted, the advance notice presentation means 222 starts applying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the special symbol change display SC2 caused by the reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game. In this embodiment, the advance notice presentation means 222 forcibly executes the advance notice presentation using the changed adjustment mode while the special symbol change display SC2 is being executed. In other embodiments, the advance notice presentation means 222 may determine whether or not to execute the advance notice presentation using the changed adjustment mode while the special symbol change display SC2 is being executed based on normal conditions, rather than forcibly. In other embodiments, if there is a reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when the adjustment mode change is accepted, the advance notice presentation means 222 may start applying the changed adjustment mode from the time of the acceptance change of the adjustment mode before the special symbol change display caused by a ball entering the starting hole that occurred after the acceptance of the adjustment mode change.

[0200] The adjustment mode notification means 228 of the sub-integrated control device 220 notifies the adjustment mode after the change. In this embodiment, the adjustment mode notification means 228 cooperates with the effect pattern control device 230 and the effect pattern display device 480 to realize notification of the adjustment mode after the change in the effect pattern display device 480.

[0201] If there is no reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when the change of the adjustment mode is accepted, the adjustment mode notification means 228 starts to notify the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the special pattern variation display SC1 caused by the ball entering the starting hole that occurs after the change of the adjustment mode is accepted.

[0202] If there is a reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when the change of the adjustment mode is accepted, the adjustment mode notification means 228 starts to notify the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the special pattern variation display SC2 caused by the reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game.

[0203] Fig. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a performance display. The performance screen 500 in Fig. 21(a) is a screen that constitutes a series of performance videos displayed on the performance symbol display device 480. The performance screen 500 has a performance symbol display area 510, a first reserved memory display area 520, a second reserved memory display area 530, a changing reserved symbol 540, an adjustment mode reception display area 550, and an ongoing mode display area 560.

[0204] The effect pattern display area 510 of the effect screen 500 is an area that performs effect pattern change display, which displays the effect pattern according to the result of the hit / miss judgment after displaying the effect pattern change in synchronization with the special pattern change display performed by the first special pattern display device 473 and the second special pattern display device 475. The effect pattern display area 510 is arranged in the center of the effect screen 500.

[0205] The basic performance mode of the performance symbol display area 510 is three areas arranged horizontally, which variably display, from left to right, a left performance symbol 511, a central performance symbol 513, and a right performance symbol 512. After starting to display the variability of the three performance symbols, the performance symbol display area 510 temporarily stops the left performance symbol 511 in a swaying state (Fig. 21(a)). Following the temporary stopping of the left performance symbol 511, the performance symbol display area 510 temporarily stops the right performance symbol 512 in a swaying state (Fig. 21(b)). Following the temporary stopping of the right performance symbol 512, the central performance symbol 513 in a swaying state (Fig. 21(c)). After the three performance symbols have been temporarily stopped, the performance symbol display area 510 confirms and displays the three temporarily stopped performance symbols in a completely stopped state (Fig. 21(d)). When the first special pattern display device 473 or the second special pattern display device 475 displays a confirmed jackpot pattern, the effect pattern display area 510 displays a confirmed combination of effect patterns that suggests a jackpot win (for example, a combination of three effect patterns).

[0206] In a state where only the left side effect pattern 511 is temporarily stopped (Fig. 21(a)), the effect pattern display area 510 may change the display mode (for example, movement speed, size, color, etc.) of the right side effect pattern 512 to indicate whether the right side effect pattern 512 will temporarily stop with the same pattern as the left side effect pattern 511 (a so-called "reach" state). In a normal reach state (Fig. 21(b)) where the left side effect pattern 511 and the right side effect pattern 512 are temporarily stopped with the same pattern, the effect pattern display area 510 indicates whether the central effect pattern 513 will temporarily stop with the same pattern as the other effect patterns (a so-called "jackpot confirmed" state), or whether the effect will develop into an effect with a higher probability of winning a jackpot (a so-called "super reach" state). The effect symbol display area 510 indicates whether or not the central effect symbol 513 will temporarily stop with the same symbol as the other effect symbols in the super reach state (the so-called "jackpot confirmed" state).

[0207] The first reserved memory display area 520 of the performance screen 500 is an area that displays reserved symbols corresponding to each of the first reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211. In this embodiment, the first reserved memory display area 520 is configured to be able to display four reserved symbols 521, 522, 523, and 524 corresponding to the reserved memory means 211 that can store up to four first reserved memories. The reserved symbol 521 indicates the presence of the first reserved memory that is stored first among the first reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211. The reserved symbol 522 indicates the presence of the first reserved memory that is stored second among the first reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211. The reserved symbol 523 indicates the presence of the first reserved memory that is stored third among the first reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211. The reserved symbol 524 indicates the presence of the first reserved memory that is stored fourth among the first reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211.

[0208] The second reserved memory display area 530 of the performance screen 500 is an area that displays reserved symbols corresponding to each of the second reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211. In this embodiment, the second reserved memory display area 530 is configured to be able to display four reserved symbols 531, 532, 533, and 534 corresponding to the reserved memory means 211 that can store up to four second reserved memories. The reserved symbol 531 indicates the presence of the first reserved memory among the second reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211. The reserved symbol 532 indicates the presence of the second reserved memory that is stored second among the second reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211. The reserved symbol 533 indicates the presence of the third reserved memory among the second reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211. The reserved symbol 534 indicates the presence of the fourth reserved memory among the second reserved memories stored in the reserved memory means 211.

[0209] The currently changing reserved symbol 540 on the performance screen 500 corresponds to the reserved memory that caused the currently executing special symbol variable display, and is a symbol conforming to the display mode displayed as reserved symbols 521, 531 in the previous special symbol variable display. In this embodiment, the currently changing reserved symbol 540 is a symbol obtained by enlarging the display mode displayed as reserved symbols 521, 531 in the previous special symbol variable display.

[0210] In the example of Figure 21(a), a special symbol variable display based on the first reserved memory A is being performed, and the variable reserved symbol 540 is a display mode corresponding to the first reserved memory A. At the time of Figure 21(a), the reserved memory means 211 holds the first reserved memory B stored first among the first reserved memories, and the first reserved memory C stored second, and the first reserved memory display area 520 displays the reserved symbol 521 corresponding to the first reserved memory B and the reserved symbol 522 corresponding to the first reserved memory C.

[0211] In the drawings of this embodiment, for ease of understanding, the reserved symbols 531, 532, 533, 534 and the variable reserved symbol 540 are assigned the symbols of the first reserved memories corresponding to each symbol. For example, in the example of FIG. 21(a), the variable reserved symbol 540 is assigned the symbol "A" indicating the first reserved memory A, the reserved symbol 531 is assigned the symbol "B" indicating the first reserved memory B, and the reserved symbol 532 is assigned the symbol "C" indicating the first reserved memory C.

[0212] The adjustment mode reception display area 550 of the effect screen 500 is displayed when an adjustment mode change is accepted, and is an area that displays an image for accepting an adjustment mode change from a player. In this embodiment, the adjustment mode reception display area 550 is located above the effect symbol display area 510. The adjustment mode reception display area 550 includes an adjustment mode display section 550L, an adjustment mode display section 550S, and an adjustment mode display section 550R. Each of these adjustment mode display sections displays an adjustment mode name. In the adjustment mode reception display area 550, the adjustment mode display section 550L is located on the left, the adjustment mode display section 550S is located in the center, and the adjustment mode display section 550R is located on the right. In this embodiment, each time the effect button 160 is operated to the right, the adjustment mode name displayed in these adjustment mode display sections is shifted to the right, and each time the effect button 160 is operated to the left, the adjustment mode name displayed in these adjustment mode display sections is shifted to the left. This makes it possible to display all of the adjustment mode names in the adjustment mode display section 550S. When the effect button 160 is pressed while the adjustment mode acceptance display area 550 is displayed, the adjustment mode displayed in the adjustment mode display section 550S is accepted as the adjustment mode after the change. In the example of Fig. 21(a), the adjustment mode display section 550S displays "one-shot notification mode" as the adjustment mode for which changes are accepted.

[0213] The in-progress mode display area 560 of the effect screen 500 is displayed when a change in the adjustment mode is accepted, and is an area that indicates the adjustment mode that is being implemented at that time. In this embodiment, the in-progress mode display area 560 is located below the effect symbol display area 510. In the example of FIG. 21(a), the in-progress mode display area 560 displays a character string indicating that "reserved symbol mode 2" is being implemented as the adjustment mode.

[0214] Fig. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a presentation display. Presentation screen 500A in Fig. 22(a) is a presentation screen subsequent to presentation screen 500 in Fig. 21(a). Presentation screen 500A shows the state after accepting a change of adjustment mode from "reserved symbol mode 2" to "one-shot announcement mode" in the state shown in presentation screen 500 in Fig. 21(a).

[0215] Similar to the presentation screen 500, the presentation screen 500A has a presentation symbol display area 510, a first reserved memory display area 520, a second reserved memory display area 530, and a changing reserved symbol 540. In the presentation symbol display area 510 of the presentation screen 500A, the left side presentation symbol 511 is temporarily stopped, and the right side presentation symbol 512 and the center presentation symbol 513 are displayed changing. Similar to the presentation screen 500, the first reserved memory display area 520 of the presentation screen 500A displays a reserved symbol 521 corresponding to the first reserved memory B and a reserved symbol 522 corresponding to the first reserved memory C. In the presentation screen 500A, as the changing reserved symbol 540, a symbol corresponding to the first reserved memory A that caused the currently implemented special symbol changing display is displayed.

[0216] Unlike the presentation screen 500, the presentation screen 500A has a preparation display area 570, but does not have the adjustment mode acceptance display area 550 or the ongoing mode display area 560. In this embodiment, upon completion of the acceptance of the adjustment mode change, the adjustment mode acceptance display area 550 and the ongoing mode display area 560 are deleted, and the preparation display area 570 is displayed. The preparation display area 570 is an area indicating that the adjustment mode change is being prepared and the previous adjustment mode is being applied. In this embodiment, an image indicating the character string "preparation" is displayed in the preparation display area 570.

[0217] The presentation screen 500B in Fig. 22(b) is a presentation screen subsequent to the presentation screen 500A in Fig. 22(a). The presentation screen 500B shows the state after a ball enters the first starting hole 451 after the change of the adjustment mode is accepted and the first reserved memory D is stored in the reserved memory means 211.

[0218] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500B is the same as that of the presentation screen 500A. In the presentation symbol display area 510 of the presentation screen 500B, the left presentation symbol 511 and the right presentation symbol 512 temporarily stop with the same symbol, and the central presentation symbol 513 is displayed in a variable manner (the so-called "normal reach state"). In the first reserved memory display area 520 of the presentation screen 500B, a reserved symbol 521 corresponding to the first reserved memory B and a reserved symbol 522 corresponding to the first reserved memory C are displayed, and further, a reserved symbol 523 corresponding to the first reserved memory D added after the presentation screen 500A is displayed. In the presentation screen 500B, the symbol corresponding to the first reserved memory A is displayed as the variable reserved symbol 540, continuing from the presentation screen 500A. In the presentation screen 500B, the preparation display area 570 is displayed as in the presentation screen 500A.

[0219] The effect screen 500C of Fig. 22(c) is an effect screen subsequent to the effect screen 500B of Fig. 22(b). The effect screen 500C shows the state in which the special symbol variable display corresponding to the first reserved memory A is completed.

[0220] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500C is the same as that of the presentation screen 500B, except that the currently changing reserved symbol 540 has been erased. In the presentation symbol display area 510 of the presentation screen 500C, all of the presentation symbols are displayed as a combination of symbols indicating a miss corresponding to the first reserved memory A. In the first reserved memory display area 520 of the presentation screen 500C, the reserved symbol 521 corresponding to the first reserved memory B, the reserved symbol 522 corresponding to the first reserved memory C, and the reserved symbol 523 corresponding to the first reserved memory D are displayed, continuing from the presentation screen 500B. Since the currently changing reserved symbol 540 is erased upon completion of the special symbol change display corresponding to the first reserved memory A, the currently changing reserved symbol 540 is not displayed on the presentation screen 500C. In the presentation screen 500C, the preparation display area 570 is displayed, continuing from the presentation screen 500B.

[0221] Fig. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a presentation display. The presentation screen 500D in Fig. 23(a) is a presentation screen subsequent to the presentation screen 500C in Fig. 22(c). The presentation screen 500D shows the state after the special symbol variable display corresponding to the first reserved memory B has started.

[0222] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500D is the same as that of the presentation screen 500A. All presentation patterns are displayed in a variable manner in the presentation pattern display area 510 of the presentation screen 500D. A reserved pattern 521 corresponding to the first reserved memory C and a reserved pattern 522 corresponding to the first reserved memory D are displayed in the first reserved memory display area 520 of the presentation screen 500D. A pattern corresponding to the first reserved memory B is displayed as the variable reserved pattern 540 on the presentation screen 500D. The preparation display area 570 continues to be displayed on the presentation screen 500C.

[0223] The effect screen 500E of Fig. 23(b) is an effect screen subsequent to the effect screen 500D of Fig. 23(a). The effect screen 500E shows the state in which the special symbol variable display corresponding to the first reserved memory B has ended.

[0224] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500E is the same as that of the presentation screen 500D, except that the currently changing reserved symbol 540 has been erased. In the presentation symbol display area 510 of the presentation screen 500E, all of the presentation symbols are displayed as a combination of symbols indicating a miss corresponding to the first reserved memory B. In the first reserved memory display area 520 of the presentation screen 500E, the reserved symbol 521 corresponding to the first reserved memory C and the reserved symbol 522 corresponding to the first reserved memory D are displayed, continuing from the presentation screen 500D. Since the currently changing reserved symbol 540 is erased in response to the end of the special symbol change display corresponding to the first reserved memory B, the currently changing reserved symbol 540 is not displayed on the presentation screen 500E. In the presentation screen 500E, the preparation display area 570 is displayed, continuing from the presentation screen 500D.

[0225] Fig. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the effect display when the first reserved memory C is a miss. The effect screen 500F in Fig. 24(a) is an effect screen that follows the effect screen 500E in Fig. 23(b) when the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first reserved memory C is a miss. The effect screen 500F shows the state after the start of the special pattern variable display corresponding to the first reserved memory C when the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first reserved memory C is a miss.

[0226] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500F is the same as that of the presentation screen 500A. All presentation patterns are displayed in a variable manner in the presentation pattern display area 510 of the presentation screen 500F. The first pending memory display area 520 of the presentation screen 500F displays a pending pattern 521 corresponding to the first pending memory D. The presentation screen 500F displays a pattern corresponding to the first pending memory C as the variable pending pattern 540. The preparation display area 570 continues from the presentation screen 500E and is displayed on the presentation screen 500F.

[0227] The effect screen 500G of Fig. 24(b) is an effect screen subsequent to the effect screen 500F of Fig. 24(a). The effect screen 500F shows the state in which the special symbol variable display corresponding to the first reserved memory C has ended when the result of the judgment of the first reserved memory C is a miss.

[0228] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500G is the same as that of the presentation screen 500F, except that the currently changing reserved pattern 540 has been erased. In the presentation pattern display area 510 of the presentation screen 500G, all of the presentation patterns are displayed as confirmed combinations of the presentation patterns indicating a miss corresponding to the first reserved memory C. In the first reserved memory display area 520 of the presentation screen 500G, the reserved pattern 521 corresponding to the first reserved memory D is displayed, continuing from the presentation screen 500F. Since the currently changing reserved pattern 540 is erased in response to the end of the special pattern change display corresponding to the first reserved memory C, the currently changing reserved pattern 540 is not displayed on the presentation screen 500G. In the presentation screen 500G, the preparation display area 570 is displayed, continuing from the presentation screen 500F.

[0229] The presentation screen 500H in Fig. 24(c) is a presentation screen subsequent to the presentation screen 500G in Fig. 24(b). The presentation screen 500H shows the state after the special symbol variable display corresponding to the first reserved memory D is started when the result of the judgment of the first reserved memory C is a miss.

[0230] As in the example of Figure 24, if there is no reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when the change of adjustment mode is accepted, in response to the start of the special pattern change display SC1 caused by the ball entering the starting hole (in the example of Figure 24, the first reserved memory D) that occurred after the change of adjustment mode is accepted, the advance notice performance means 222 will begin applying the changed adjustment mode (in the example of Figure 24, the "one-shot announcement mode"), and the adjustment mode notification means 228 will begin to notify the changed adjustment mode.

[0231] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500H is the same as that of the presentation screen 500A, except that it has an adjustment mode notification area 580 instead of the preparation display area 570. The adjustment mode notification area 580 of the presentation screen 500H is an area that notifies the changed adjustment mode. The adjustment mode notification area 580 is displayed in place of the preparation display area 570 in response to the start of the special pattern change display SC1. This starts notification of the changed adjustment mode. In this embodiment, an image indicating the name of the changed adjustment mode is displayed in the adjustment mode notification area 580. In the example of Figure 24(c), an image indicating the changed adjustment mode name "one-shot notification mode" is displayed in the adjustment mode notification area 580.

[0232] In the effect pattern display area 510 of the effect screen 500H, all effect patterns are displayed in a changing manner as an effect pattern changing display synchronized with the special pattern changing display SC1. No reserved patterns are displayed in the first reserved memory display area 520 of the effect screen 500H. In the effect screen 500H, a pattern corresponding to the first reserved memory D is displayed as the changing reserved pattern 540.

[0233] Fig. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the effect display when the first reserved memory C is a jackpot. The effect screen 500S in Fig. 25(a) is an effect screen that follows the effect screen 500E in Fig. 23(b) when the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first reserved memory C is a jackpot. The effect screen 500S shows the state after the start of the special pattern variable display corresponding to the first reserved memory C when the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first reserved memory C is a jackpot.

[0234] As in the example of FIG. 25, if there is a reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when the change of adjustment mode is accepted, in response to the start of the special pattern change display SC2 caused by the reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game (in the example of FIG. 25, the first reserved memory C), the advance notice performance means 222 starts applying the changed adjustment mode (in the example of FIG. 25, the "one-shot notification mode"), and the adjustment mode notification means 228 starts notifying the changed adjustment mode. In this embodiment, the advance notice performance means 222 forcibly executes the advance notice performance of the changed adjustment mode while the special pattern change display SC2 is being executed. In other embodiments, the advance notice performance means 222 may determine whether or not to execute the advance notice performance of the changed adjustment mode while the special pattern change display SC2 is being executed based on normal conditions, rather than forcibly.

[0235] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500S is the same as that of the presentation screen 500A, except that it has an adjustment mode notification area 580 instead of the preparation display area 570. The adjustment mode notification area 580 of the presentation screen 500S is an area that notifies the changed adjustment mode. The adjustment mode notification area 580 is displayed in place of the preparation display area 570 in response to the start of the special pattern change display SC2. This starts notification of the changed adjustment mode. In this embodiment, an image indicating the name of the changed adjustment mode is displayed in the adjustment mode notification area 580. In the example of Figure 25(a), an image indicating the changed adjustment mode name "one-shot notification mode" is displayed in the adjustment mode notification area 580.

[0236] In the effect pattern display area 510 of the effect screen 500S, all effect patterns are displayed in a changing manner as an effect pattern changing display synchronized with the special pattern changing display SC2. In the first reserved memory display area 520 of the effect screen 500S, a pattern corresponding to the first reserved memory D is displayed. In the effect screen 500S, a pattern corresponding to the first reserved memory C is displayed as a changing reserved pattern 540.

[0237] The presentation screen 500T in Fig. 25(b) is a presentation screen that follows the presentation screen 500S in Fig. 25(a) when the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first reserved memory C is a jackpot. The presentation screen 500T shows how the notice presentation in the changed adjustment mode (in the example of Fig. 25, "one shot announcement mode") is forcibly executed when the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first reserved memory C is a jackpot.

[0238] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500T is similar to that of the presentation screen 500S, except for the inclusion of a preview presentation image 590. In the presentation symbol display area 510 of the presentation screen 500T, the left presentation symbol 511 and the right presentation symbol 512 temporarily stop at the same symbol (a symbol representing a "7"), and the center presentation symbol 513 is displayed in a changing state (a so-called "normal reach state"), as a presentation symbol change display synchronized with the special symbol change display SC2. The preview presentation image 590 is an image constituting a specific preview presentation in the "one-shot announcement mode" (a presentation that rarely appears in other adjustment modes). In this embodiment, the preview presentation image 590 is an image depicting an anthropomorphized bear character, superimposed on the center presentation symbol 513 during the changing display. This allows the player to recognize that the possibility of a jackpot is extremely high. The first reserved memory display area 520 of the presentation screen 500T continues to display the symbol corresponding to the first reserved memory D from the presentation screen 500S. On the performance screen 500T, the pattern corresponding to the first reserved memory C is displayed as the changing reserved pattern 540, continuing from the performance screen 500S. On the performance screen 500T, the adjustment mode notification area 580 is displayed as continuing from the performance screen 500S.

[0239] The presentation screen 500U of Fig. 25(c) is a presentation screen that follows the presentation screen 500T of Fig. 25(b) when the result of the judgment of the first reserved memory C is a jackpot. The presentation screen 500U shows the end of the special symbol variation display SC2 caused by the first reserved memory C when the result of the judgment of the first reserved memory C is a jackpot.

[0240] The screen configuration of the presentation screen 500U is the same as that of the presentation screen 500T, except that the currently changing reserved symbol 540 has been erased. In the presentation symbol display area 510 of the presentation screen 500U, all of the presentation symbols are displayed as a combination of symbols indicating a jackpot win corresponding to the first reserved memory C. In the first reserved memory display area 520 of the presentation screen 500U, the reserved symbol 521 corresponding to the first reserved memory D is displayed, continuing from the presentation screen 500T. Since the currently changing reserved symbol 540 is erased in response to the end of the special symbol change display corresponding to the first reserved memory C, the currently changing reserved symbol 540 is not displayed on the presentation screen 500U. In the presentation screen 500U, the adjustment mode notification area 580 is displayed, continuing from the presentation screen 500T.

[0241] After the jackpot game that follows the presentation screen 500U is completed, a special pattern change display SC3 is executed, which is caused by the ball entering the starting hole (in the example of Figure 25, the first reserved memory D) that occurred after the change of the adjustment mode was accepted.

[0242] According to the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the first embodiment described above, depending on whether or not the notification of the changed adjustment mode is implemented in response to the start of the special symbol variable display resulting from the reserved memory present at the time of accepting the change of the adjustment mode, if the changed adjustment mode is not notified, it can suggest to the player that they have won the jackpot game, and if the changed adjustment mode is not notified, it can suggest that they have lost. Furthermore, since the preview effect of the changed adjustment mode is forcibly executed during the special symbol variable display SC2 resulting from the reserved memory that indicates a winning jackpot game, it is possible to prevent the player from overlooking the hint that they have won the jackpot game. As a result, the preview effect customization function can increase the enjoyment of the game.

[0243] B. Other Embodiments The technology disclosed in this specification is not limited to the above-described embodiments, examples, and modifications, and can be realized in various configurations without departing from the spirit thereof. For example, among the technical features of the above-described embodiments, examples, and modifications, those corresponding to the technical features of each form described in the Summary of the Invention section can be appropriately replaced and combined to solve some or all of the above-described problems or achieve some or all of the above-described effects. Furthermore, technical features not described as essential in this specification can be appropriately deleted.

[0244] In another embodiment, if there is a reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when the adjustment mode change is accepted, the adjustment mode notification means 228 may start notifying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the special symbol change display SC2 caused by the reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game, and then the advance notice presentation means 222 may start applying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the special symbol change display SC3 that is implemented after the special symbol change display SC2. According to this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the interest in the game can be increased through the advance notice presentation customization function.

[0245] In another embodiment, when there is only a reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when a change in the adjustment mode is accepted, in response to the start of the special pattern change display SC2 resulting from the reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game, the adjustment mode notification means 228 may start notifying of the changed adjustment mode, and the advance notice performance means 222 may forcibly execute the advance notice performance of the changed adjustment mode while the special pattern change display SC2 is being executed.

[0246] Furthermore, if there is only a reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when a change in the adjustment mode is accepted, the adjustment mode notification means 228 may start notifying of the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the special pattern change display SC2 that is caused by the reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game, and then the advance notice performance means 222 may start applying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the special pattern change display SC3 that is implemented after the special pattern change display SC2.

[0247] Furthermore, if there is only a reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game when a change in the adjustment mode is accepted, in response to the start of the special pattern change display SC2 resulting from the reserved memory that will result in a winning jackpot game, the adjustment mode notification means 228 may not start notifying of the changed adjustment mode, and the advance notice performance means 222 may forcibly execute the advance notice performance of the changed adjustment mode while the special pattern change display SC2 is being performed.

[0248] In another embodiment, when a reserve memory exists among a plurality of reserve memories that will result in a winning jackpot game at the time of accepting a change in the adjustment mode, and the reserve memory corresponding to the first special pattern change display is a miss after accepting a change in the adjustment mode, the adjustment mode notification means 228 may start notifying of the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the first special pattern change display, and then the advance notice performance means 222 may start applying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the special pattern change display resulting from the reserve memory that will result in a winning jackpot game.

[0249] Furthermore, when a change in the adjustment mode is accepted, if there is a reserved memory among the multiple reserved memories that will result in a winning jackpot game, and the reserved memory corresponding to the first special pattern change display after the change in the adjustment mode is accepted is a miss, the adjustment mode notification means 228 may start notifying of the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of the first special pattern change display, and then the advance notice performance means 222 may start applying the changed adjustment mode in response to the start of a special pattern change display that is implemented after the first special pattern change display.

[0250] The game state to which the adjustment mode for the preview effect is applied may be only normal game, or may include at least one of probability variable game and time-limited game. In an embodiment in which the adjustment mode for the preview effect is applied only in normal game, if the application of the changed adjustment mode is not started upon notification of the changed adjustment mode, the application of the changed adjustment mode may be started in response to the transition to the first normal game that is implemented after a jackpot game. In an embodiment in which the adjustment mode for the preview effect is applied in probability variable game or time-limited game, which have a shorter presentation time compared to normal game, the adjustment mode may be configured to be set with easier operations than in normal game; for example, only one reserved symbol mode may be selected as the adjustment mode.

[0251] When a transition to normal play is made without going through a special mode play or a time-saving play after the end of a jackpot play, all reserved memories existing at the time of accepting the change of the adjustment mode may be consumed, and application of the changed adjustment mode may begin in response to the start of the display of special pattern variations corresponding to the reserved memories that occurred after accepting the change of the adjustment mode. [Explanation of symbols]

[0252] 10...Pachinko machines 80...Card unit 90...Hole computer 110...Outer frame 112...hinge 120...inner frame 120s...Inner frame release switch 122...hinge 124...Top plate 126...Bottom plate 126s...full switch 128...Keyhole 130...Front frame 130s...Front frame release switch 132...Transparent plate 134...Illumination (frame illumination) 136...Speaker 140...Handle 140b...Handle volume 140m…launch motor 140s...Fire stop switch 140t...Touch switch 152...Balance display device 154...Ball rental switch 156...Settlement switch 160...Performance button 172... Game ball tank 172s...Bulb failure switch 174...Dispensing device 174d...Discharge motor 174s...Payment switch 210...Main control device 210m…RAM 211...Retention storage means 212...Look-ahead determination means 213...Means for determining whether or not 214...Special gaming means 216...Means for determining whether or not 219...Command output means 220...Sub-integrated control device 222...Preview production method 225...Adjustment mode reception means 228...Adjustment mode notification means 230...Performance pattern control device 240...Dispensing control device 250...Launch control device 260...Back wiring relay terminal board 265...External connection terminal board 270...Discharge relay terminal board 280...Card unit terminal board 290...Power supply board 292...Power switch 294…RAM clear switch 302...Settings switch 304...Settings change switch 400...Game board 402…board surface 404...Guide rail 408...gaming nails 409...Windmill nail 410...Center case 414...Illumination (display illumination) 420s…General prize entry switch 421...Normal prize slot 430...Normal pattern operated gate 430s...Operation gate switch 440...Normal electric device 440d...General purpose solenoid 451...First starting point 451s...First start switch 452...Second starting point 452s...Second start switch 460...Grand prize entrance 460d...Large entry solenoid 460s...Count switch 471...Normal pattern display device 472…Public drawing holding display device 473...First special pattern display device 474…1st special figure reservation display device 475...Second special pattern display device 476…Second special figure holding display device 480...Performance pattern display device 500,500A~H,500S~U…Production screen 511...Left side production pattern 512...Right side production pattern 513...Central performance design 520…1st pending memory display area 521~524... Reserved patterns 530…Second pending memory display area 531~534... Reserved patterns 540...Fluctuating pending pattern 550...Adjustment mode reception display area 550L...Adjustment mode display 550R...Adjustment mode display 550S...Adjustment mode display 560...Current mode display area 570…Preparation display area 580...Adjustment mode notification area 590...Preview image

Claims

[Claim 1] A reserve memory means for storing information generated based on the ball entering the starting hole as a reserve memory; A correct / incorrect determination means for executing a correct / incorrect determination based on the reserved memory; A special symbol display means for executing a special symbol variable display for displaying a fixed special symbol according to the result of the winning / losing judgment after the special symbol is variably displayed; When the result of the win / loss determination is a win of the special game, a special game means executes the special game after displaying a special symbol variation according to the result of the determination; A performance means for performing a variable performance using a performance pattern to notify the result of the winning / losing judgment by a stopped display mode; A notice performance means for performing a notice performance that notifies the occurrence of a reach performance in the variable performance; an adjustment mode receiving means for receiving a change of the adjustment mode from a player, the adjustment mode receiving means having a plurality of adjustment modes each having a different implementation of the preview performance; an adjustment mode informing means for informing the user of the currently selected adjustment mode; A pinball game machine comprising: The adjustment mode notification means If there is no reserved memory that will result in a winning of the special game when the change of the adjustment mode is accepted, a notification of preparation is made to indicate that the adjustment mode is being changed, and notification of the changed adjustment mode is started in response to the start of a special symbol variation display caused by a ball entering the starting hole that occurred after the change of the adjustment mode is accepted. When there is a reserved memory that will result in a winning of the special game when the change of the adjustment mode is accepted, the notification of preparation is made until the display of a special pattern change due to the reserved memory that will result in a winning, and the notification of the changed adjustment mode is started in response to the start of the display of a special pattern change due to the reserved memory that will result in a winning.

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