gaming machines

Abstract

To provide a game machine with a reduced processing load.SOLUTION: When a stored value of a second counter reaches a third value that is smaller than a second value, lending control means performs a control so that lending of game values is not to be accepted. In a specific situation where a stored value of a first counter is less than a first value and the stored value of the second counter is less than the second value and when paying out of game values occurs so that a value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the paying out to the stored value of the second counter becomes a value larger than the second value, game value control means does not add the predetermined value related to the paying out to the stored value of the second counter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] A known gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine, which includes a gaming area in which gaming balls (gaming value) move and a launching device that launches gaming balls into the gaming area. The pachinko gaming machine includes a starting port provided in the gaming area, and when a gaming ball is detected entering the starting port, a special symbol lottery is held. If the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the gaming state transitions to a special gaming state, and multiple special games are played in the special gaming state. In each special game, a large prize opening provided in the gaming area opens, and gaming balls are paid out based on the entry of the gaming ball into the large prize opening.

[0003] Also known as gaming machines are slot machines equipped with a plurality of reels with a plurality of symbols arranged on the outer periphery, a start lever, a stop button, etc. In slot machines, the reels begin to spin in response to a game start operation, and an internal lottery is held using a lottery table. When each reel stops, a symbol combination corresponding to a winning combination determined in the internal lottery is displayed. If the winning combination results in a prize, a process corresponding to the winning combination is carried out, such as a payout process that awards game value or a replay process that allows the player to play again without consuming any more game value.

[0004] Furthermore, some gaming machines of this type are configured such that when a predetermined gaming state (exceptional gaming state) is determined, the payout of prize balls is not executed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6695233 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Incidentally, gaming machines are required to reduce the processing load.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a gaming machine with a reduced processing load. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises: A first counter (MY counter 221), A second counter (a game ball number counter 222), A game value control means (main control board 200, frame control board 201) for controlling game values; A game stop control means (main control board 200) that controls the stop of a game; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value, the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the first counter based on the payout of the gaming value; The game stop control means executes a process for stopping the game when the stored value of the first counter reaches a first value ("95000"); the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the second counter based on the payout of gaming value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the second counter to a second value ("990000") greater than the first value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the second counter reaches a third value ("100000") that is smaller than the second value; In a specific situation where the stored value of the first counter is less than the first value and the stored value of the second counter is less than the second value, if a payout of game value occurs and the value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter is greater than the second value, the game value control means does not add the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter.

[0009] This simplifies the processing required when a special situation occurs, reducing the processing load. Furthermore, because the processing is simple, the processing speed can be increased and the program size can be reduced compared to when complex processing is required to prepare for special situations. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, the processing load can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an amusement machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating its external configuration. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the general configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the jackpot lottery table. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a symbol lottery table. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a state transition diagram of the game state. [Figure 9] This is a diagram to explain the display of the performance patterns and reserved patterns. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of whether addition is possible. [Figure 11]This is a diagram to explain the complete function activation presentation. [Figure 12] This is a diagram to explain the complete function activation preview performance. [Figure 13] This is a diagram to explain the presentation that notifies the player that the number of game balls has been cleared. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the counting warning effect. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the complete function activation warning display. [Figure 16] This is a diagram to explain the presentation to notify of a door opening error. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, "front and rear" basically means that when a player is in front of a gaming machine, the player side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "rear," "up and down" means the top side of the gaming machine is "up" and the bottom side is "down," and "left and right" means the left-hand side of a player playing on the gaming machine is "left" and the right-hand side is "right."

[0013] Unlike conventional pachinko gaming machines, the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment allows the player to play without touching the gaming balls. The gaming machine 1 is of an enclosed circulation type in which a certain number of gaming balls (gaming media) circulates inside the gaming machine. The gaming machine 1 is also a gaming machine that uses gaming value as electronic information, and the gaming value is consumed and paid out through play. In the gaming machine 1, paying out gaming value means paying out (granting) the gaming value electronically.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior configuration of a gaming machine according to this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment includes an outer frame 2 that forms the exterior surface of the gaming machine, a gaming board 6 that is provided inside the gaming machine and forms a gaming area 4 in which gaming balls move, an inner frame 7 that holds the gaming board 6, a glass unit 8 that makes the gaming board 6 visible but inaccessible to players, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close. The front frame 10 is also attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close. The inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) that closes the opening of the outer frame 2 and an open position (open state) that opens the opening of the outer frame 2.

[0015] The portion of the front frame 10 surrounding the glass unit 8 is made of a translucent material that transmits light, and inside the portion made of the translucent material are provided a plurality of front frame lamps 12 that output light effects to enhance the game. In addition, speakers 14 (sound output means) that output sounds to enhance the game are provided on the left and right sides of the lower part of the front frame 10.

[0016] A grip unit 20 (handle) is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when a player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine, a launcher (not shown) provided inside the gaming machine is activated, launching gaming balls into the gaming area 4. The launcher of this embodiment can launch 99 gaming balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

[0017] The front frame 10 is provided with a performance button 26 (performance operation means), and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance performed in the gaming machine changes.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 2, a dedicated unit 400 (game value lending device, specified device) that lends game value is provided on the side (left side) of the gaming machine 1 and is connected to the gaming machine 1. The front of the dedicated unit 400 is provided with a bill insertion slot 406 into which bills can be inserted, a card insertion / ejection slot 402 into which a card (game value management medium) can be inserted / ejected, a lending button (lending operation means) 403, a replay button (lending operation means) 404, and a card return button 405. The card is used to manage the number of game values ​​owned by the player. In other words, the number of game values ​​owned by the player can be ascertained by the card. The card may also be capable of storing a prepaid balance. In addition, the management of the number of play values ​​by card may be performed by storing the number of play values ​​on the card itself, or by storing the number of play values ​​in a designated management device installed in an amusement facility, etc., and linking the number of play values ​​stored in the management device, etc. with identification information stored on the card (such as the player's ID or an identification number unique to each card).

[0019] In the dedicated unit 400, an operation (pressing operation) on the lending button 403 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) for transferring game value to the gaming machine 1. When the lending button 403 is pressed, a predetermined number (for example, 125) of game value is credited to the gaming machine 1 by consuming a stored value stored as a prepaid balance on a bill inserted into the bill insertion slot 406 or a card. In addition, in the dedicated unit 400, an operation (pressing operation) on the replay button 404 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) for transferring game value to the gaming machine 1. When the replay button 404 is pressed, a predetermined number (for example, 125) of game value is credited to the gaming machine 1 by consuming game value owned by the player and managed by the card (game value linked to the card). In other words, in this embodiment, an operation on the lending button 403 or the replay button 404 as a lending operation means is accepted as a lending operation (a game value transfer operation), and based on the lending operation, a predetermined amount of game value is transferred (lent) from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, a game value number display device (game ball number display device) 211 and a counting button (counting operation means) 212 are provided on the left side of the front frame 10 (the dedicated unit 400 side). Based on the lending operation in the dedicated unit 400, in the gaming machine 1, a value equivalent to a predetermined number of game values ​​is stored in a game value number memory area of ​​the frame control board 201 described below. Hereinafter, the value (stored value) indicated in the game value number memory area will be referred to as the "number of balls in possession" (number of balls in possession). The number of balls in possession can be said to be the number of game values ​​that can be used for playing. The number of balls in possession is displayed on the game value number display device 211. The game value number display device 211 has a 6-digit 7-segment display, and the number of balls in possession is displayed by the 7-segment display.

[0021] The gaming machine 1 is equipped with a frame control board 201 (see FIG. 5), which controls the value (number of held balls) stored in the game value number storage area. The frame control board 201 decreases the number of held balls when a game ball is detected to be launched. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of held balls when a prize ball is paid out. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of held balls when a foul ball is detected. When game value is transferred from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1, the frame control board 201 also increases the number of held balls by the amount of game value to be transferred. When game value is transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400, the frame control board 201 also decreases the number of held balls by the amount of game value to be transferred. The frame control board 201 also controls the display of the number of held balls on the game value number display device 211, and changes the display content of the game value number display device 211 according to the increase or decrease in the number of held balls.

[0022] The counting button 212 is a button that is operated when transmitting (returning, transferring) all or part of the number of balls held (the game value stored in the game value number storage area) to the dedicated unit 400. The counting button 212 has a pressing portion (operation portion) that is formed so that it can be pressed. When the player wants to end a game, for example, the player operates (presses) the counting button 212 as a counting operation (return operation). When the counting button 212 is operated, a predetermined number of game values ​​are transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400. After the game value has been transferred to the dedicated unit 400, when an operation (presses) is performed on the card return button 405 of the dedicated unit 400, a card that enables the number of game values ​​owned by the player to be determined is ejected from the dedicated unit 400 (card insertion / ejection port 402).

[0023] 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming board 6. A circular outer rail 28 is provided on the gaming board 6, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 28 is the gaming area 4 in which gaming balls move. An arc-shaped inner rail 30 is provided on the left end of the gaming area 4 so as to follow the outer rail 28, and the outer rail 28 and inner rail 30 guide gaming balls launched from a launcher (not shown) provided below the gaming board 6 into the gaming area 4.

[0024] At the center of the game board 6, there is provided a liquid crystal display 32 (effect display device, display means) that displays effect images and the like to enhance the game, and an effect unit 36 ​​that includes a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. Above the center of the liquid crystal display 32, there is provided a lighting device 38 (lighting means) that constitutes the effect unit 36 ​​and outputs effect light and the like to enhance the game.

[0025] In this embodiment, the game balls cannot pass in front of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game balls launched from the launching device fall into the game area 4a on the left side or the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, in the game area 4, many game nails (not shown) are nailed so as to intersect with the surface of the game board 6, and the moving direction of the game balls moving in the game area 4 changes randomly.

[0026] An opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34, through which game balls falling in the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass, and game balls that pass through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The top surface of this stage 44 is smoothly curved, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8, allowing game balls to fall downward from the stage 44, so that game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth on the stage 44 before falling downward from near the center of the stage 44.

[0027] A first start opening 46 (first area) is provided below the center of the stage 44, through which game balls (including game balls that have fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44) can enter. A first start opening switch 100 (see FIG. 5) that detects game balls that have entered the first start opening 46 is disposed within the first start opening 46. When the first start opening switch 100 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the first start opening 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the detection signal input from the first start opening switch 100, the main control board 200 executes a first special symbol lottery (first lottery) as a special symbol lottery. Based on the detection signal input from the first start opening switch 100, the main control board 200 executes the payout of a prize ball (for example, one ball). The game ball that entered the first start opening 46 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0028] To the left of the first starting opening 46 in the gaming area 4, multiple (three) general winning openings 47 (upper left general winning opening 47a, middle left general winning opening 47b, and lower left general winning opening 47c) are provided. The gaming board 6 is also provided with a general winning opening switch 101 (see FIG. 5) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the upper left general winning opening 47a, middle left general winning opening 47b, or lower left general winning opening 47c. When the general winning opening switch 101 detects a gaming ball (entry of a gaming ball into the upper left general winning opening 47a, middle left general winning opening 47b, or lower left general winning opening 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then pays out prize balls (for example, three balls) based on the detection signal input from the general winning opening switch 101. One general prize opening switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, or only one may be provided for multiple (for example, three) general prize openings 47. Furthermore, in addition to the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, general prize opening switches corresponding to these general prize openings may also be provided.

[0029] A passage gate 48 through which gaming balls pass without being collected inside the gaming machine is provided in the gaming area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A gate switch 102 (see FIG. 5) that detects the passage of a gaming ball is also provided inside the passage gate 48. When the gate switch 102 detects a gaming ball (passage of the gaming ball through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102, the main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery that determines whether a normal win has been won.

[0030] In the gaming area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, a second start opening 49 (second area) is provided below the passage gate 48. A second start opening switch 103 (see FIG. 5) is provided in the second start opening 49 to detect a gaming ball that has entered the second start opening 49. When the second start opening switch 103 detects a gaming ball (entry of a gaming ball into the second start opening 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the input of the detection signal from the second start opening switch 103, the main control board 200 executes a second special symbol lottery (second lottery) as a special symbol lottery. Based on the input of the detection signal from the second start opening switch 103, the main control board 200 executes the payout of a prize ball (for example, one ball). The gaming ball that has entered the second start opening 49 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0031] The second starting opening 49 is provided with a normal role device 54 (first movable object) that can move between a reduced state (closed state) in which it is difficult for a gaming ball to enter the second starting opening 49 (a state in which it is difficult for a gaming ball to enter the second starting opening 49), and an expanded state (open state) in which it is easy for a gaming ball to enter (a state in which it is easy for a gaming ball to enter the second starting opening 49). The normal role device 54 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to enter the expanded state under predetermined conditions when a normal win is won in the normal symbol lottery.

[0032] A special prize opening 50 (third area, predetermined area) is provided in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A count switch 104 (see FIG. 5) that detects game balls that enter the special prize opening 50 is provided within the special prize opening 50. When the count switch 104 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the special prize opening 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 pays out prize balls (for example, 15 balls) based on the detection signal input from the count switch 104. The main control board 200 counts the number of game balls that enter the special prize opening 50 based on the detection signal input from the count switch 104. The game balls that enter the special prize opening 50 are collected inside the gaming machine.

[0033] The large prize opening 50 is provided with a special device 56 (second movable object, specific movable object) that can move between a closed state (non-entry state) in which gaming balls cannot enter the large prize opening 50 and an open state (entry state) in which gaming balls can enter. The special device 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to open under predetermined conditions in a special game state that starts when a large prize is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery or second special pattern lottery). The special device 56 is also controlled to open under predetermined conditions in a small prize game state that starts when a small prize is won in the special pattern lottery (second special pattern lottery).

[0034] The large prize opening 50 is provided with a specific area (not shown), a discharge area (not shown), and a distribution means (not shown) that distributes gaming balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to either the specific area or the discharge area. A specific area switch 107 (see FIG. 5) is disposed in the specific area. The specific area switch 107 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 based on the detection of a gaming ball passing through the specific area (passage of a gaming ball through the specific area). The distribution means can be switched between a specific area passing state in which gaming balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area, and a non-specific area passing state in which gaming balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the discharge area. In other words, when the distribution means is switched to the specific area passing state, gaming balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area. This prevents gaming balls that enter the large prize opening 50 from passing through the discharge area. On the other hand, when the distribution means is displaced to the non-specific area passing state, a gaming ball that enters the large prize opening 50 is distributed to the discharge area. This makes it impossible for a gaming ball that enters the large prize opening 50 to pass through the specific area. The distribution means is displaced by the specific area solenoid. A gaming ball that enters the large prize opening 50 is first detected by the count switch 104, and then distributed by the distribution means to either the specific area or the discharge area, and after passing through that area, is discharged to the discharge path. At this time, the gaming ball distributed to the specific area is detected by the specific area switch 107.

[0035] An outlet 62 is provided at the bottom of the game area 4 to collect game balls that fall through the game area 4 without entering any of the winning openings 46, 47, 49, and 50 into the game machine. A discharge path (not shown) is provided inside the game machine through which game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass. This game machine is configured so that all game balls shot into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) pass through the discharge path. That is, game balls shot into the game area 4 are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the discharge path by entering any of the winning openings 46, 47, 49, and 50 or passing through the outlet 62. Specifically, game balls that enter each of the winning openings 46, 47, 49, and 50 are detected by switches 100, 101, 103, and 104 disposed in the winning openings, and then guided to the discharge path. Furthermore, the gaming balls collected from the outlet 62 are guided to the discharge path. An out switch 106 (see FIG. 5) is disposed in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects a gaming ball passing through the discharge path (discharge of a gaming ball from the gaming area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Furthermore, the main control board 200 counts the number of gaming balls discharged from the gaming area 4 based on the input of the detection signal from the out switch 106.

[0036] The game ball launching device is configured so that the launch output of the game ball can be changed by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in Figure 1; when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game ball is launched so that it falls in the game area 4a (first game area 4a, left-hitting area) on the left side of the LCD display 32; when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball is launched so that it falls in the game area 4b (second game area 4b, right-hitting area) on the right side of the LCD display 32.

[0037] The player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 depending on the game situation, and launches the game ball so that it falls through the left-side game area 4a or passes through the opening 40, the passage 42, and the stage 44 to win in the first start opening 46 (left hit), or launches the game ball so that it falls through the right-side game area 4b and passes through the passage gate 48 or wins in the second start opening 49 or wins in the big prize opening 50 (right hit). In this embodiment, left hit may be called the first game method, and right hit may be called the second game method.

[0038] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when a gaming ball falls through the left-side gaming area 4a, the gaming ball does not pass through the passing gate 48, and the gaming ball does not enter (win) the second start opening 49 or the large prize opening 50. In addition, when a gaming ball falls through the right-side gaming area 4b, the gaming ball does not enter the first start opening 46 or the general prize opening 47.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 3, a status display unit 70 is provided at the lower right of the gaming board 6, outside the gaming area 4, for indicating various states of the gaming machine by turning on and off lamps or the like.

[0040] 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. The status display unit 70 is provided with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal hold display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special hold display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 81, a second special hold display unit 82, and a game status display unit 84.

[0041] The normal symbol display unit 72 is composed of two lamps, and when a normal symbol lottery is held, the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner by flashing the two lamps, and the normal symbol is displayed in a static manner by turning on or off the two lamps, thereby displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery.

[0042] The normal hold display unit 74 is composed of two lamps, and displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of the reserved random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery when the random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery are reserved because the normal pattern lottery cannot be held even if the random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery are obtained, such as when the normal pattern is already being displayed in a changing or stopped state when the game ball passes through the passing gate 48, and displays the normal hold number from 0 to 4 by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0043] The first special pattern display unit 76 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a first special pattern lottery is held by a gaming ball entering the first starting hole 46, the 7-segment display is made to flash to display the first special pattern in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display is made to light up in one of a plurality of modes to display the first special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the first special pattern lottery.

[0044] The first special reserve display unit 78 is composed of two lamps, and displays a first special reserve number corresponding to the number of reserved first special random number values ​​when the first special pattern or second special pattern is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the first starting hole 46, and the random number value for the special pattern lottery is reserved as the first special random number value because a special pattern lottery cannot be held even if the random number value for the special pattern lottery (lottery information) is obtained, and displays 0 to 4 first special reserve numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0045] The second special pattern display unit 81 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a second special pattern lottery is held by a gaming ball entering the second starting hole 49, the 7-segment display is made to flash to display the second special pattern in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display is made to light up in one of a plurality of modes to display the second special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the second special pattern lottery.

[0046] The second special reserve display unit 82 is composed of two lamps, and displays a second special reserve number corresponding to the number of the reserved second special random number value when the first special pattern or the second special pattern is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the second starting hole 49, and the random number value for the special pattern lottery is reserved as the second special random number value because a special pattern lottery cannot be held even if the random number value for the special pattern lottery is obtained, and displays 0 to 4 second special reserve numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0047] The game status display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and displays the type of game status currently set by combining the lighting, extinguishing, or flashing of the six lamps. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, multiple game statuses can be set, including a normal status, a slightly time-saving status, a time-saving status, and a special game status. In the time-saving status, the time for the first special symbol or the second special symbol to fluctuate is shortened compared to the normal status and the slightly time-saving status, and the opportunity to execute the special symbol lottery occurs more frequently.

[0048] 5 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main control board 200 (main control means), a sub-control board 202 (sub-control means), and a frame control board 201. The functions of the main control board 200, the sub-control board 202, and the frame control board 201 are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, or by software consisting of a given program pre-stored in ROM, etc.

[0049] The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the gate switch 102, the first start port switch 100, the second start port switch 103, the general winning port switch 101, the count switch 104, the out switch 106, and the specific area switch 107, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the normal device 54 and the special device 56 based on the calculation results.

[0050] The sub-control board 202 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the effect button switch 150, performs various calculations to execute effects that match the progress of the game, and based on the calculation results, controls the operation of effect devices such as the front frame lamp 12, speaker 14, LCD display 32, and lighting device 38.

[0051] The frame control board 201 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the counting button 212, controls the number of balls held (number of game balls), and controls the game value number display device 211, etc. The frame control board 201 is capable of bidirectional communication with the main control board 200. The frame control board 201 may be formed integrally with the main control board 200.

[0052] The main control board 200 is configured to include a random number generating means 210, a normal symbol lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal device control means 224, a special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means), a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250 (state control means), a special game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290.

[0053] The random number generating means 210 is a means for generating random numbers for the lottery, and is realized by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers, or a program that generates software random numbers. Software random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to circulate within a predetermined count range). Note that in this embodiment, the term "random number value" includes not only values ​​that are generated randomly in the mathematical sense, but also values ​​that are generated regularly but can actually function as random numbers because the timing of their acquisition is irregular.

[0054] The normal symbol lottery means 220 acquires a random number value for the normal symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the gate switch 102 that detects each game ball passing through the passage gate 48, stores the random number value for the normal symbol lottery in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290, and performs a normal symbol lottery to determine whether or not a normal win has been won based on the random number value for the normal symbol lottery read from the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0055] In detail, the normal random number memory means 2912 has four normal reserve memory areas, normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 4, which are memory areas for storing the acquired random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery, and one normal reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery that are read from normal reserve memory area 1 and used to draw the normal pattern until the changing and stopping display of the normal pattern ends. Then, when normal pattern lottery means 220 acquires the random number value for normal pattern lottery from random number generating means 210, if the random number value for normal pattern lottery is not stored in any of normal reserve memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the acquired random number value for normal pattern lottery in normal reserve memory area 1. Then, at the time the random number value for normal pattern lottery is stored in normal reserve memory area 1, if the normal pattern is not being displayed variably or stationarily, that is, if the random number value for normal pattern lottery is not stored in the normal reserve memory area and control to open normal role device 54 is not being executed, it immediately reads out the random number value for normal pattern lottery from normal reserve memory area 1 and performs a normal pattern lottery, and stores the random number value for normal pattern lottery used in the normal pattern lottery in the normal reserve memory area. On the other hand, when the normal symbol is being displayed in a variable or stationary manner, that is, when the random number value for the normal symbol lottery is stored in the normal reserve memory area or when control to open the normal device 54 is being executed, the random number value for the normal symbol lottery is reserved in the normal reserve memory area 1.

[0056] Then, when a random number value for the normal pattern lottery is reserved in the normal reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the gate switch 102 to obtain a random number value for the normal pattern lottery, the normal pattern lottery means 220 stores the random number value for the normal pattern lottery in the normal reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the normal reserve memory areas 1 to 4 in which a random number value for the normal pattern lottery is not reserved, on the condition that the number of random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery reserved in the normal reserve memory areas 1 to 4 is less than four, i.e., the normal reserve number is less than four.

[0057] Then, when the variable display and stationary display of the normal symbols are finished, the normal symbol lottery means 220 erases the random number values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal reserve memory area, and if a random number value for normal symbol lottery is reserved in the normal reserve memory area 1, it reads the random number value for normal symbol lottery from the normal reserve memory area 1, performs a normal symbol lottery, and stores the random number value for normal symbol lottery obtained by the normal symbol lottery in the normal reserve memory area, provided that control to open the normal accessory 54 is not being executed. Here, if a random number value for normal symbol lottery remains in the normal reserve memory area 2 or later, it moves the remaining random number value for normal symbol lottery from the original normal reserve memory area to the normal reserve memory area with the smaller ordinal number by one. For example, if a random number value for normal symbol lottery remains in the normal reserve memory area 2 to the normal reserve memory area 3, it moves it to the normal reserve memory area 1 to the normal reserve memory area 2.

[0058] In this way, in the normal random number memory means 2912, the random number value for the normal pattern lottery for which a normal pattern lottery has been held is held in the normal hold memory area up to a maximum of one, and the random number value for the normal pattern lottery for which a normal pattern lottery has not been held is held in the normal hold memory area 1 to normal hold memory area 4 up to a maximum of four.

[0059] The normal symbol lottery means 220 performs normal winning determination processing as a normal symbol lottery.

[0060] The normal win determination process is a process for determining whether a "normal win" has been won. In the normal win determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects, according to the game state, which normal symbol lottery table to refer to for random number determination processing among a plurality of types of normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290. Here, each normal symbol lottery table associates "normal win" or "lose" with each of 100 normal symbol lottery random number values ​​from 0 to 99. Then, the normal symbol lottery means 220 determines whether a "normal win" has been won by referring to the selected normal symbol lottery table and determining whether one normal symbol lottery random number value read from the normal random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal win.

[0061] The normal symbol lottery table selected when the gaming state is in the time-shortening state (excluding the slight time-shortening state, the same applies below) is set to have a higher probability of winning a "normal win" compared to the normal symbol lottery table selected when the gaming state is not in the time-shortening state. In other words, the normal symbol lottery held when the gaming state is in the time-shortening state has a higher probability of winning a "normal win" compared to the normal symbol lottery held when the gaming state is not in the time-shortening state.

[0062] The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing.

[0063] In the normal symbol display control process, the normal symbol display control means 222 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner by flashing the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and displays the result of the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol display unit 72 by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 to stop the normal symbol display depending on whether a "normal symbol win" has been won in the normal symbol win determination process.

[0064] In this embodiment, the normal pattern variation time is determined according to the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed. Specifically, when the game state is in a time-saving state, the normal pattern variation time is set shorter than when the game state is not in a time-saving state. For example, when the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed is not in a time-saving state, the normal pattern variation time is set to a first time (e.g., 20 seconds), and when the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed is in a time-saving state, the normal pattern variation time is set to a second time (e.g., 1 second) that is shorter than the first time. Therefore, when the game state is in a time-saving state, the opportunity to perform the normal pattern lottery occurs more frequently.

[0065] In the normal hold display control process, the normal display control means 222 displays 0 to 4 normal hold numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74, depending on the number of random number values ​​for normal pattern lottery stored in the normal random number memory means 2912.

[0066] The normal device control means 224 is a means for controlling the normal device 54 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery. When the gaming state is not in the time-saving state, the normal device control means 224 controls the normal device 54 to operate so that the normal device 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to the reduced state until time A (e.g., 0.1 seconds) has elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a win of a "normal win." Also, when the gaming state is in the time-saving state, the normal device control means 224 controls the normal device 54 to operate so that the normal device 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to the reduced state until time B (e.g., 6 seconds) longer than time A has elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a win of a "normal win."

[0067] Therefore, when a "normal win" is obtained in the normal symbol lottery, if the gaming state is not in the time-saving state, the normal device 54 operates so as to hardly increase the ease with which the gaming ball enters the second starting hole 49, but if the gaming state is in the time-saving state, the normal device 54 operates so as to increase the ease with which the gaming ball enters the second starting hole 49. In this embodiment, in the time-saving state, the operation of the normal device 54 is controlled so that the gaming ball enters the second starting hole 49 more easily than in the normal state and the slight time-saving state. Therefore, the time-saving state is a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state and the slight time-saving state.

[0068] In this embodiment, the control of the operation of the normal role device 54 differs between the normal state and the short-time-saving state. In the short-time-saving state, the opening time of the normal role device 54 (the time in the expanded state) is set slightly longer than in the normal state. In the short-time-saving state, it is sufficient that one or more of the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol, or the opening time of the normal role device 54 is different from that in the normal state. For example, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery and the opening time of the normal role device 54 may be the same in the short-time-saving state and the normal state, but the fluctuation time of the normal symbol may be different. In this case, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol may be slightly shorter in the short-time-saving state than in the normal state.

[0069] The special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means) acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 that detects each gaming ball entering the first start port 46, and stores the value as a first special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. Also, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103 that detects each gaming ball entering the second start port 49, and stores the value as a second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914. The special symbol lottery means 230 uses the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery that determines whether or not a jackpot will be won.

[0070] The special random number memory means 2914 has four first special reserve memory areas, first special reserve memory area 1 to first special reserve memory area 4, which are memory areas for storing the acquired first special random number values, and one first special reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the first special random number value read from first special reserve memory area 1 and used in the special pattern lottery until the varying and stopping display of the first special pattern ends.

[0071] When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires the random number value for the special symbol lottery based on the detection signal being input from the first start port switch 100, in a state where the first special random number value is not stored in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, the special symbol lottery means 230 first stores the acquired random number value for the special symbol lottery as the first special random number value in the first special reserve memory area 1. Then, at the time when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, if the first special symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the first special random number value is not stored in the first special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a small win game is not being executed, the special symbol lottery means 230 immediately reads out the first special random number value from the first special reserve memory area 1, performs a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random number value used in the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area. On the other hand, when the first special symbol is being displayed in a variable or stopped state, i.e., when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reserve memory area, or when the game state is a special game state, or when a small win game is being played, the first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1.

[0072] Then, when a first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the first start port switch 100 to obtain a random number value for the special pattern lottery, the special pattern lottery means 230 stores the first special random number value in the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 that has the smallest ordinal number and in which the first special random number value is not reserved, on the condition that the number of first special random number values ​​reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is less than four, i.e., the first special reserve number is less than four.

[0073] The special random number memory means 2914 is provided with four second special reserve memory areas, second special reserve memory area 1 to second special reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired second special random number values, and one second special reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the second special random number value read from second special reserve memory area 1 and used in the special pattern lottery until the changing and stopping display of the second special pattern ends.

[0074] When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires the random number value for the special symbol lottery based on the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103, in a state where the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, the special symbol lottery means 230 first stores the acquired random number value for the special symbol lottery as a second special random number value in the second special reserve memory area 1. Then, at the time when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1, if the second special symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the second special random number value is not stored in the second special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a small win game is not being executed, the special symbol lottery means 230 immediately reads out the second special random number value from the second special reserve memory area 1, performs a special symbol lottery, and stores the second special random number value used in the special symbol lottery in the second special reserve memory area. On the other hand, when the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable or stopped state, that is, when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reserve memory area, or when the game state is a special game state, or when a small win game is being executed, the second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1.

[0075] Then, when a second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the second start port switch 103 to obtain a random number value for the special pattern lottery, the special pattern lottery means 230 stores the second special random number value in the second special reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4 in which the second special random number value is not reserved, on the condition that the number of second special random number values ​​reserved in the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4 is less than four, i.e., the second special reserve number is less than four.

[0076] When the variable display and stationary display of the first special symbol have ended, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the first special random number value stored in the first special reserve memory area. Then, if the first special random number value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, the special symbol lottery means 230 reads the first special random number value from the first special reserve memory area 1, performs a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random number value used in the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area, provided that the game state is not a special game state and a small win game is not being executed. Furthermore, when the variable display and stationary display of the second special symbol have ended, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the second special random number value stored in the second special reserve memory area. Then, when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1, on the condition that the game state is not a special game state and a small win game is not being executed, the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, a special symbol lottery is performed, and the second special random number value used in the special symbol lottery is stored in the second special reserve memory area. In this embodiment, since the first special random number value and the second special random number value are consumed in parallel, the variable display of the second special symbol may start during the variable display of the first special symbol, or the variable display of the first special symbol may start during the variable display of the second special symbol.

[0077] In addition, when a first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, the first special random number value is read from the first special reservation memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is performed, provided that a second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4. When a second special random number value is stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, the second special random number value may be read from the second special reservation memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is performed, even if the first special random number value is stored in any of the first special reservation memory areas 1 to 4. In other words, the second special random number value may be consumed with priority over the first special random number value. Furthermore, regardless of whether it is the first special random number value or the second special random number value, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be read in the order stored in the special random number storage means 2914 and a special symbol lottery may be performed. In other words, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be consumed in the order in which the gaming ball enters the first start hole 46 or the second start hole 49.

[0078] When the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1, if the first special random number value remains in the first special reserve memory area 2 or later, or when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, if the second special random number value remains in the second special reserve memory area 2 or later, the remaining first special random number value or second special random number value is moved from the original special reserve memory area to a special reserve memory area with an ordinal number one smaller. For example, if a first special random number value remains in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4 when the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1, the first special random number value stored in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is moved to each of the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 3, and if a second special random number value remains in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3 when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, the second special random number value stored in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3 is moved to each of the second special reserve memory area 1 to the second special reserve memory area 2.

[0079] In the special random number storage means 2914, first special random number values ​​for which a special symbol lottery has not been conducted are reserved up to an upper limit of four in the first special reservation storage area 1 to the first special reservation storage area 4. Also, second special random number values ​​for which a special symbol lottery has not been conducted are reserved up to an upper limit of four in the second special reservation storage area 1 to the second special reservation storage area 4.

[0080] Next, the details of the special symbol lottery will be explained. The special symbol lottery means 230 acquires multiple types of random number values, such as a jackpot determination random number value and a pattern determination random number value, as random number values ​​for special symbol lottery based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and stores these multiple types of random number values ​​as first special random number values ​​or second special random number values ​​in the special random number storage means 2914. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a jackpot determination process, a pattern determination process, etc. as a special symbol lottery.

[0081] The jackpot determination process is a process for determining whether or not a jackpot has occurred by reading out one jackpot determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the first special reserve memory area 1 or the second special reserve memory area 1 of the special random number memory means 2914. Here, one jackpot determination random number value is obtained from 65,536 jackpot determination random number values ​​from 0 to 65,535 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number memory means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0082] In the jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple types of jackpot lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to in performing the random number determination process, depending on whether the one jackpot determination random number value read out was stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0083] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores a jackpot lottery table A shown in Fig. 6(a) and a jackpot lottery table B shown in Fig. 6(b). In each jackpot lottery table, jackpots and the like are associated with each of 65,536 jackpot determination random number values ​​from 0 to 65,535.

[0084] The jackpot lottery table A is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the first special random number value. The correspondence between each determination result and the jackpot determination random number value is set so that the probability of winning a "jackpot" is 1 / 350 (187 / 65536) and the probability of winning a "C time reduction" is 349 / 350 (65349 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 determines whether a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction" has been won by referring to the jackpot lottery table A and determining whether the jackpot determination random number value read from the first reserved memory area 1 corresponds to a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction." In this embodiment, the first special symbol lottery always results in a win for either a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction." Note that, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction" in the first special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state. In the first special symbol lottery, there are cases where a winner (jackpot) is won and cases where a winner is not won, and the latter case (which may be called a miss) includes cases where a winner is won in the C time reduction (C time reduction 1 or C time reduction 2 described later). Note that "not winning" may also include cases where a winner is not won in the time reduction (in other words, a complete miss).

[0085] The jackpot lottery table B is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the second special random number value. The correspondence between each determination result and the jackpot determination random number value is set so that a "jackpot" is won with a probability of 1 / 350 (187 / 65536) and a "minor jackpot" is won with a probability of 1 / 139.8 (469 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 determines whether a "jackpot" or a "minor jackpot" has been won by referring to the jackpot lottery table B and determining whether the jackpot determination random number value read from the second reserved memory area 1 corresponds to a "jackpot" or a "minor jackpot." In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "jackpot" or a "minor jackpot" in the second special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state. In the second special symbol lottery, there are cases where a win (jackpot or minor jackpot) is won or where a win is not won. In addition, the latter "if you do not win the prize" does not include the case where you win the C time reduction without winning the prize.

[0086] The symbol determination process is a process that is performed when a "big hit," "C time reduction," or "small hit" is won in the big hit determination process. The symbol determination process reads out one symbol determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the first special reserve memory area 1 or the second special reserve memory area 1 of the special random number memory means 2914, and when a "big hit" is won, it determines which of multiple big hit symbols the big hit symbol (type of big hit) will be, when a "C time reduction" is won, it determines which of multiple time reduction symbols the time reduction symbol (type of C time reduction) will be, and when a "small hit" is won, it determines which of multiple small hit symbols the small hit symbol (type of small hit) will be. Here, one pattern determination random number value is obtained from 200 pattern determination random number values ​​from 0 to 199 based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100 and the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number memory means 2914 as a first special random number value or a second special random number value.

[0087] In the pattern determination process, the special pattern lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple types of pattern lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 to refer to when performing the random number determination process, depending on whether the one read-out pattern determination random number value was stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0088] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores a symbol lottery table A shown in Fig. 7(a), a symbol lottery table B shown in Fig. 7(b), a symbol lottery table C shown in Fig. 7(c), and a symbol lottery table D shown in Fig. 7(d). In each symbol lottery table, a predetermined symbol is associated with each symbol determination random number value.

[0089] 7(a) is selected when a "jackpot" is won and one read-out symbol determination random number value is stored as the first special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "jackpot 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 0.005 / 100, "jackpot 2" (7R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 59.997 / 100, and "jackpot 3" (7R time reduction 0) is won with a probability of 39.998 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table A and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols the read-out symbol determination random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0090] 7(b) is selected when "C time reduction" is won and one read-out pattern determination random number value is stored as the first special random number value, and the correspondence between each pattern and the pattern determination random number value is set so that "C time reduction 1" (slight time reduction 1329) is won with a probability of 80.5 / 100 (approximately 80%) and "C time reduction 2" (time reduction 1329) is won with a probability of 19.5 / 100 (approximately 20%). The special pattern lottery means 230 refers to the pattern lottery table B and determines which of the multiple types of time reduction patterns the read-out pattern determination random number value is associated with, thereby determining which of the multiple types of time reduction patterns has been won.

[0091] 7(c) is selected when a "jackpot" is won and one read-out symbol determination random number value is stored as the second special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "jackpot 4" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 12.8 / 100, and "jackpot 5" (10R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 87.2 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table C and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols the read-out symbol determination random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0092] The symbol lottery table D shown in Fig. 7(d) is selected when a "small win" is won and one read-out symbol determination random number value is stored as the second special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "small win 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 50 / 100, and "small win 2" is won with a probability of 50 / 100 (10R time reduction 110). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table D and determines which of the multiple types of small win symbols the read-out symbol determination random number value is associated with, thereby determining which of the multiple types of small win symbols has been won.

[0093] The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the result of the special symbol lottery, and performs processing for executing the special game. The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a small win game based on the winning of a "small win" in the special symbol lottery, and performs processing for executing the small win game. Note that the term "special game" may include a small win game.

[0094] The special game state begins when a "jackpot" is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery), and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (number of executions) of special games have been played according to the type (category) of jackpot symbols. When the special game state begins when "jackpot 1," "jackpot 4," or "jackpot 5" is won in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends when 10 rounds of special games (rounds 1 to 10) have been played. When the special game state begins when "jackpot 2" or "jackpot 3" is won in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends when 7 rounds of special games (rounds 1 to 7) have been played. Details will be given later, but if a "jackpot" is won in the special pattern lottery, at the end of the special game state, a predetermined number of time-saving periods corresponding to the jackpot pattern is set and the time-saving state begins, or a predetermined number of small time-saving periods corresponding to the jackpot pattern is set and the small time-saving state begins.

[0095] The small win gaming state is initiated when a "small win" is won in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery), and ends when a predetermined number of small win games have been played (one in this embodiment). In the small win game, the special device 56 is set to an open state that allows the game ball to enter the large prize opening 50, and the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state. Specifically, in the small win game, the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state so that the game ball that entered the large prize opening 50 during the execution of the small win game can easily (possibly) pass through the specific area. As a result, if either "small win 1" or "small win 2" is won in the second special symbol lottery, the game ball can easily (possibly) pass through the specific area in the small win gaming state. Then, when the passage of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the small win game state (when the passage of a game ball that has entered the large prize opening 50 through a specific area is detected during the execution of the small win game), a special game state is initiated based on the end of the small win game state.

[0096] If "small win 1" is won in the second special pattern lottery and the passage of the gaming ball through a specific area is detected during the small win gaming state, the number of special games (round games) is set to 9. As a result, 10 rounds will be played, with the small win game being the first round game. The special gaming state ends once 10 rounds of special games have been played. Also, if "small win 2" is won in the second special pattern lottery and the passage of the gaming ball through a specific area is detected during the small win gaming state, the number of special games (round games) is set to 9. As a result, 10 rounds will be played, with the small win game being the first round game. The special gaming state ends once 10 rounds of special games have been played. As will be described in detail later, at the end of the special gaming state, a predetermined number of time-saving games corresponding to the small win pattern is set, and the time-saving state begins. In addition, if the passage of the game ball through a specific area is not detected during the small win game state (if the passage of the game ball that entered the large prize opening 50 through a specific area is not detected during the execution of the small win game), the special game state is not initiated and the normal state is initiated.

[0097] In this embodiment, in the special game of each round (including the small win game), when the opening timer of the main memory 290 counts a predetermined time (29 seconds) after the special feature 56 is opened, or when the value of the large prize number counter (not shown) of the main memory 290, which adds a value equivalent to one game ball (for example, 1) when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, reaches an upper limit value (for example, 10), the drive control of the special feature drive device is performed so that the special feature 56 is closed.

[0098] The special display control means 240 performs a first special pattern display control process, a second special pattern display control process, a first special hold display control process, and a second special hold display control process based on the results of the special pattern lottery.

[0099] The first special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is conducted, and the special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 until the variable time has elapsed, and then causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

[0100] In this embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is predetermined in correspondence with each of the big win symbols, time-saving symbols, and small win symbols. The special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a stopped state by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a manner corresponding to whether or not a "jackpot" or "C time reduction" has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a "jackpot" has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the time reduction pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a "C time reduction" has been won in the jackpot determination process, and causes the first special pattern display unit 76 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.

[0101] The second special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when a second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is conducted, and the special display control means 240 causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 until the variable time has elapsed, and then causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 in a predetermined manner.

[0102] The special display control means 240 causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a stopped state by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 in a manner corresponding to whether a ``big hit'' or a ``small hit'' has been won in the big hit determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the big hit pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a ``big hit'' has been won in the big hit determination process, and causes the second special pattern display unit 81 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.

[0103] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 first special hold numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78 depending on the number of first special random number values ​​stored in the special random number memory means 2914.

[0104] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 second special hold numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82, depending on the number of second special random number values ​​stored in the special random number memory means 2914.

[0105] In this embodiment, if a "big win" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery or second special pattern lottery), a special game state is initiated in which a game ball can (easily) enter the large prize opening 50. Also, if a "small win" is won in the second special pattern lottery, a small win game state is initiated in which a game ball can (easily) enter the large prize opening 50. When a game ball that has entered the large prize opening 50 is detected passing through a specific area in the small win game state, a special game state is initiated in which a game ball can (easily) enter the large prize opening 50. By entering the game ball into the large prize opening 50, the player can win many prize balls. In this embodiment, the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the second special pattern lottery is higher than the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the first special pattern lottery. Specifically, in the first special symbol lottery, a "small win" is not set as a lottery result, and the game transitions to the special game state only if a "big win" is won. On the other hand, in the second special symbol lottery, a "big win" and a "small win" are set as lottery results, and the game transitions to the special game state if a "big win" is won, and if a "small win" is won and the passage of the game ball through a specific area is detected in the small win game state, the game transitions to the special game state.

[0106] In this embodiment, the probability of transitioning to the special game state is higher when an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery is acquired than when an opportunity for the first special symbol lottery is acquired. As described above, in order to acquire an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery, it is necessary to win a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery and to cause a game ball to enter (enter) the second start opening 49 when the normal role device 54 (normal electric role device) is in the open state (open state). In addition, the ease of entry of a game ball into the second start opening 49 (ease of making a ball enter) varies depending on the game state.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 8, the game state transition control means 250 performs a game state transition control process for transitioning the game state between each game state based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (transition condition).

[0108] (Normal state) The normal state (normal game state) is a game state that corresponds to the initial state among multiple game states. As described above, in the normal state, the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is lower than in the time-saving state. Furthermore, even if a "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal device 54 operates so that the likelihood of the game ball entering the second starting hole 49 is hardly increased. Therefore, in the normal state, it is difficult (impossible) to get the game ball into the second starting hole 49. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) to get an opportunity to draw the second special symbol. In the normal state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the ball left-handed to get the game ball into the first starting hole 46 in order to get an opportunity to draw the first special symbol than to hit the ball right-handed. In other words, the normal state is a game state in which left-handed hitting is recommended.

[0109] As shown in Figure 8, a transition to the special game state occurs when a "jackpot" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) in the normal game state. As shown in Figure 7(a), if "jackpot 1" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 2" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 3" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times (micro-time-saving times) is set to 1,329 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the micro-time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state.

[0110] 7(b), in the normal state, if "C time-saving 1" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" (when the first special pattern is confirmed), the stopped display (confirmation) triggers the setting of the number of time-saving times corresponding to the time-saving pattern (1329 times of slight time-saving), and a transition to the slight time-saving state occurs. In addition, in the normal state, if "C time-saving 2" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 2" (when the first special pattern is confirmed), the stopping display (confirmation) triggers the setting of the number of time-saving times corresponding to the time-saving pattern (1329 times of time-saving), and a transition to the time-saving state occurs.

[0111] In this embodiment, the first special pattern lottery in the normal state always results in either a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction," and based on the execution of the first special pattern lottery in the normal state, the game will transition to either a slight time reduction state, a time reduction state, or a special game state.

[0112] The time-saving symbol "C Time-saving 2" does not trigger a transition to a game state (special game state or small win game state) that makes it easier for the game ball to enter the large prize slot 50, and is a time-saving symbol that allows a transition to the time-saving state without passing through the special game state or small win game state. Note that in a game state other than the normal state, if "C Time-saving 1" or "C Time-saving 2" is won in the first special symbol lottery and the first special symbol is displayed in a stopped state, the display will not trigger a transition to the time-saving state or the minute time-saving state. This "not transitioning" includes the fact that the specified number of time-saving times (minute time-saving number of times) will not be reset if the player is already in that game state.

[0113] (Slight time saving state) As described above, in the slight time-saving state (second specific game state), the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is lower than in the time-saving state (or is the same as in the time-saving state). Furthermore, even if a "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal device 54 operates so as to barely increase the likelihood of the game ball entering the second starting hole 49. Therefore, in the slight time-saving state, at least some of the functions constituting the time-saving state are activated, and while it is slightly easier for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state, it is difficult (impossible) for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 even when the player hits the ball right. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) for the game ball to win the second special symbol lottery. In the slight time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the ball left so that the game ball enters the first starting hole 46 in order to gain an opportunity to win the first special symbol lottery than to hit the ball right. In other words, the slight time-saving state is a gaming state in which left-handed shots should be made.

[0114] As shown in Figure 8, a transition to the special game state occurs when a "jackpot" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) during the slight time-saving state. As shown in Figure 7(a), if "jackpot 1" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the slight time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 2" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the slight time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 3" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times (slight time-saving times) is set to 1,329 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the slight time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state.

[0115] The gaming state transition control means 250 determines that the termination condition for the micro-time-saving state is met based on the fact that the number of times the first special symbol has been displayed in a variable manner in the micro-time-saving state has reached 1,329, and terminates the micro-time-saving state and transitions to the normal state. In this embodiment, when the special gaming state is terminated based on winning "Jackpot 3" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), the number of micro-time-saving times is set to the stored value of the micro-time-saving counter 2916 in the main memory 290. Also, when "C time-saving 1" is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1," the stopped display triggers the number of micro-time-saving times to be set to the stored value of the micro-time-saving counter 2916. In the micro-time-saving state, "1" is subtracted from the stored value of the micro-time-saving counter 2916 each time the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. Then, when the stored value of the minute time saving counter 2916 reaches "0", the minute time saving end condition is established, the minute time saving state ends, and the normal state starts. Note that in this embodiment, the minute time saving end condition is established when the stored value of the minute time saving counter 2916 is subtracted and reaches a predetermined value "0", but this is not limiting, and the minute time saving end condition may be established when the stored value of the minute time saving counter 2916 is added and reaches a predetermined value (for example, "1329").

[0116] In the slight time-saving state, if "C time-saving" ("C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2") is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2," the stopped display will not trigger the start (setting) of the slight time-saving state or the time-saving state (a new number of time-saving periods will not be set). In other words, the game state at the time of the winning will continue. Note that in the slight time-saving state, if "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2" is won as a result of the first special pattern lottery and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2," the stopped display may be configured to trigger the setting of a new number of time-saving periods.

[0117] (Time-saving mode) As described above, in the time-saving state (first specific game state), the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is higher than in the normal state or the slight time-saving state. Furthermore, if a "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal device 54 operates to increase the likelihood of the game ball entering the second starting hole 49. Therefore, in the time-saving state, it is easier to get the game ball into the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state or the slight time-saving state. In other words, it is easier to get an opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery. In the time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the ball to the right so that the game ball passes through the passing gate 48 in order to get an opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery than to hit the ball to the left. In other words, the time-saving state is a game state in which right-handed shots are recommended.

[0118] As shown in Figure 8, if a "big win" or "small win" is won in the special pattern lottery (second special pattern lottery) during the time-saving state, the game transitions to the special game state (including via the small win game state). As shown in Figure 7(c), if "big win 4" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Furthermore, if "big win 5" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Furthermore, if "small win 1" is won in the special pattern lottery and the game ball is detected passing through a specific area during the small win game state, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. In addition, if the "Small Win 2" is won in the special pattern lottery and the game ball is detected passing through a specific area during the small win game state, the number of time-saving times will be set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and the game will transition to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state.

[0119] When the number of times the second special symbol is variably displayed in the time-saving state reaches 110 times (or 10,000 times), the game state transition control means 250 determines that the termination condition (predetermined condition) of the time-saving state is met, terminates the time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state. In this embodiment, when the special game state ends, the number of time-saving times corresponding to the type of winning symbol is set in the value stored in the time-saving counter 2915 of the main memory 290, and each time the second special symbol is variably displayed in the time-saving state, "1" is subtracted from the value stored in the time-saving counter 2915. Then, when the value of the time-saving counter 2915 reaches "0," the time-saving termination condition is met, the time-saving state ends, and the normal state begins. In this embodiment, the time-saving end condition is met when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is subtracted and reaches a predetermined value "0", but this is not limited to this, and the time-saving end condition may be met when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is added and reaches a predetermined value "110" (or "10000"). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the time-saving counter 2915 and the minute time-saving counter 2916 are provided, but this is not limiting, and they may be managed (controlled) by one counter.

[0120] In the time-saving state, if "C time-saving" ("C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2") is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2," the stop display will not trigger the start (setting) of the micro-time-saving state or the time-saving state (a new number of time-saving periods will not be set). In other words, the game state at the time of the win will continue. Note that in the time-saving state, if "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2" is won as a result of the first special pattern lottery and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2," the stop display may be configured to trigger the setting of a new number of time-saving periods.

[0121] Returning to Figure 5, the payout control means 270 performs control to (electronically) pay out a number of game balls equivalent to a predetermined number of prize balls for each detection signal based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100, the detection signal from the second start port switch 103, the detection signal from the general winning port switch 101, and the detection signal from the count switch 104.

[0122] The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated in response to various calculation results in the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 and the frame control board 201. In this embodiment, the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202 are connected in a communication manner such that only one-way communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible, and information cannot be transmitted from the sub-control board 202 to the main control board 200.

[0123] Next, we will explain the sub-control board 202. The sub-control board 202 is configured to include a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 302.

[0124] The performance control means 300 controls the performance device based on various commands sent from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150, and performance data stored in the performance data storage means 303 of the sub-memory 302, and controls the performance device to perform effects to liven up or assist the game, such as turning on or blinking the front frame lamp 12 or the lighting device 38, displaying performance images on the LCD display 32, controlling the sound device to output performance sounds from the speaker 14, and driving the performance object drive device to operate the performance objects.

[0125] The performance data storage means 303 stores a large number of performance image data for displaying images on the liquid crystal display 32, and the performance control means 300 draws an image in the frame buffer of the sub-memory 302 for each frame (1 / 30 seconds) based on this performance image data, and displays the drawn image on the liquid crystal display 32, thereby playing and displaying a moving image on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0126] The performance control means 300 executes a performance in which a performance pattern (demo pattern) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 in accordance with (corresponding to) the varying and stationary display of the first special pattern in the first special pattern display section 76, or in accordance with (corresponding to) the varying and stationary display of the second special pattern in the second special pattern display section 81, and is capable of announcing the result of the first special pattern lottery or the second special pattern lottery. In the slight time-saving state, the performance control means 300 displays on the liquid crystal display 32 a performance pattern corresponding to the varying and stationary display of the first special pattern, and in the time-saving state, displays on the liquid crystal display 32 a performance pattern corresponding to the varying and stationary display of the second special pattern.

[0127] The display of the effect symbols in the micro-time-saving state will be explained. Figure 9(a) shows the state before the first special symbol starts to change. The left effect symbol 350, the middle effect symbol 352, and the right effect symbol 354 are displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32 as effect symbols. The left effect symbol 350 is displayed on the left side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, the middle effect symbol 352 is displayed in the center of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, and the right effect symbol 354 is displayed on the right side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32. The left effect symbol 350, the middle effect symbol 352, and the right effect symbol 354 each form nine different effect symbol sequences representing the numbers "1" through "9." Each effect symbol representing the numbers "1" through "9" may include decorative elements such as characters in addition to the numbers.

[0128] As shown in Figure 9(b), the display of the first special symbol begins, and the display of the effect symbol (the effect of the effect symbol) begins. The downward arrow in the figure indicates that the effect symbol is being displayed vertically at high speed (scrolling).

[0129] As shown in Figure 9(c), the effect pattern is displayed in a stopped state based on the stopped display of the first special pattern. The effect pattern is displayed in a stopped state according to the result of the first special pattern lottery. For example, if a "jackpot" is won in the first special pattern lottery, the effect pattern is displayed in a stopped state according to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process. Although not shown, even in the time-saving state, the effect pattern is displayed in a changing or stopped state according to the changing and stopped display of the second special pattern, just as in the slight time-saving state (as shown in Figures 9(a), 9(b), and 9(c)).

[0130] Furthermore, the performance control means 300 executes a performance (hold performance) in which an image showing the first special hold number or the second special hold number is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 based on the first special hold number (the first special random number value stored (held) in the special random number storage means 2914) or the second special hold number (the second special random number value stored (held) in the special random number storage means 2914) in the main control board 200. As shown in FIG. 9(a), etc., four hold display areas (display areas) of the first hold display area 411 to the fourth hold display area 414 are provided below the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 32, corresponding to the first special hold memory area 1 to the first special hold memory area 4 or the second special hold memory area 1 to the second special hold memory area 4 of the special random number storage means 2914.

[0131] Figure 9(a) shows a hold effect executed in a slight time-saving state, in which a first special random number value is stored in the first special hold memory area 1 to the first special hold memory area 3, and a first hold image 420 (three first hold images 420) is displayed in the first hold display area 411 to the third hold display area 413. Figure 9(d) shows a hold effect executed in a time-saving state, in which a second special random number value is stored in the second special hold memory area 1 to the second special hold memory area 2, and a second hold image 422 (two second hold images 422) is displayed in the first hold display area 411 to the second hold display area 412.

[0132] In addition, in the hold effect, one hold display area 430 is displayed in the area to the left of the first hold display area 411 at the bottom of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, corresponding to the special hold memory area of ​​the special random number memory means 2914. In the hold display area 430, when a first special random number value is read out from the first special hold memory area 1 and stored in the special hold memory area, a first hold image 420 is displayed (FIG. 9(b)). In addition, when a second special random number value is read out from the second special hold memory area 1 and stored in the special hold memory area, a second hold image 422 is displayed.

[0133] In this embodiment, in the normal state, if a player wins "Jackpot 1" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), if a player wins "Jackpot 2" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), or if a player wins "C Time Reduction 2" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), the game transitions to the time-shortened state. In contrast, in the slight time-shortened state, if a player wins "Jackpot 1" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), or if a player wins "Jackpot 2" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), the game transitions to the time-shortened state. Therefore, the normal state has a higher probability of transitioning to the time-shortened state (a game state advantageous to the player) than the slight time-shortened state, which is advantageous to the player. In other words, the normal state has a higher probability of transitioning to the time-shortened state than the slight time-shortened state because a player can transition to the time-shortened state if a player wins "C Time Reduction 2." This is advantageous to the player. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when RAM clear (a process of initializing at least a part of the RAM area of ​​the main memory 290) is executed, the gaming state is set to the normal state. The normal state is the so-called "morning state."

[0134] As described above, the normal state and the slight time-saving state (left-hit time-saving state) are game states in which left-handed hits are more advantageous than right-handed hits, and the time-saving state (right-hit time-saving state) is a game state in which right-handed hits are more advantageous than left-handed hits. In the time-saving state, it is easier to get a game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state and the slight time-saving state, and the second special symbol lottery based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 49 is more likely to determine a transition to the special game state than the first special symbol lottery. In other words, the time-saving state has a higher probability of determining a transition to the special game state than the normal state and the slight time-saving state. In this embodiment, the time-saving state and the slight time-saving state in which it is easier to get a ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state may be referred to as a high base state, and the normal state may be referred to as a low base state.

[0135] The main control board 200 is equipped with a RAM clear switch (not shown) that can be pressed, and when the power is turned on (when power is restored after a power outage) with the RAM clear switch pressed, a RAM clear (RAM clear process) is executed, and at least a portion of the information stored in the RAM of the main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is initialized (reset).

[0136] The frame control board 201 includes a frame control memory 203 (see FIG. 5), and the frame control memory 203 includes a second counter 222 (a game ball number counter, a ball holding counter, and a game value number storage area). The frame control board 201 includes a game ball number clear switch (not shown) that can be pressed, and when the power is turned on (when power is restored after a power outage) with the game ball number clear switch pressed, the game ball number is cleared, and the number of game balls stored in the RAM of the frame control memory 203 (the value stored in the second counter 222) is initialized (reset). The value stored in the second counter 222 is not initialized by the RAM clearing described above.

[0137] The frame control board 201 controls (manages) the values ​​(number of game balls, number of balls in hand) stored in the second counter 222. The frame control board 201 decreases the number of balls in hand based on the detection of the launch of a game ball, and increases the number of balls in hand based on the payout of prize balls. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls in hand based on the detection of a foul ball. When game value is transferred from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1 based on a lending operation, the frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls in hand by the amount of game value to be transferred. When game value is transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400 based on the operation of the counting button 212, the frame control board 201 also decreases the number of balls in hand by the amount of game value to be transferred. The stored value of the second counter 222 is initialized (reset) to "0" when the game ball count clear is executed.

[0138] (Number of balls) The frame control board 201 controls the display of the number of possessed balls on the game value number display device 211, and changes the display content of the game value number display device 211 according to the increase or decrease in the number of possessed balls. The game value number display device 211 has a 6-digit 7-segment display, and the number of possessed balls is displayed by the 7-segment display. In this embodiment, the maximum value stored in the second counter 222 is "990000," and the maximum number of possessed balls displayed on the game value number display device 211 is also "990000." In other words, the frame control board 201 can set the maximum value stored in the second counter 222 to "990000." In this embodiment, "990000" is referred to as the "second value."

[0139] When a predetermined event occurs to increase the stored value of the second counter 222, for example, when a decision is made to pay out prize balls (e.g., 15 balls) or a foul ball (e.g., 1 ball) is detected, the frame control board 201 executes the addition possibility determination shown in the flowchart of Figure 10 when adding a predetermined value corresponding to the event to the stored value of the second counter 222.

[0140] (Determining whether or not to add) The frame control board 201 determines whether the value obtained by adding a predetermined value (for example, 15) to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000" (step S1). If it is determined in step S1 that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 does not exceed the second value "990000" (step S1: NO), the frame control board 201 determines that the predetermined value can be added to the stored value of the second counter 222, and adds the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 (step S2).

[0141] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1 that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000" (step S1: YES), the frame control board 201 performs the processing of the next step S3. Note that "if it is determined that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000"" includes the case where the stored value of the second counter 222 is the second value "990000" at the time of making this determination.

[0142] In step S3, the frame control board 201 determines that the predetermined value cannot be added to the stored value of the second counter 222, and does not add the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222. In other words, an opportunity to increase the number of possessed balls has occurred, but the frame control board 201 decides not to increase the number of possessed balls based on that opportunity. In this embodiment, the frame control board 201 processes the process as if that opportunity had not occurred. For example, even if a decision has been made to pay out prize balls (15 balls), it is considered that no decision has been made, and the predetermined value (15) is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222 (in other words, the prize balls are discarded).

[0143] In step S1, if it is determined that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000" (step S1: YES), the predetermined value is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222 (step S3). This configuration simplifies (concisely) the processing in the frame control board 201 and reduces the processing load. In other words, if a situation occurs in which the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000," this can be handled with a minimum processing load. Furthermore, because the processing is simple, the processing speed can be increased and the program capacity to be stored in the frame control memory 203 can be reduced compared to when complex processing is provided in preparation for such a situation.

[0144] In this embodiment, for example, when a decision is made to pay out prize balls (for example, 15 balls), if it is determined that the value obtained by adding a predetermined value (15) to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000", it is determined that the decision to pay out has not been made, and the predetermined value (15) is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222.

[0145] In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, it is possible to play even when the stored value of the second counter 222 has reached the second value "990000", and if prize balls are paid out when the stored value of the second counter 222 has reached the second value "990000", the prize balls will be discarded.

[0146] (Variation) In step S1, if it is determined that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000" (step S1: YES), the frame control board 201 may be configured to add a part of the predetermined value (the part that does not exceed the second value) to the stored value of the second counter 222, and not add the part that exceeds the second value "990000" to the stored value of the second counter 222. For example, if the stored value of the second counter 222 is "989995" and a decision is made to pay out prize balls (15 balls), the frame control board 201 may be configured to add "5" (the difference from the second value) to the stored value of the second counter 222, and not add (discard) "10" (the part that exceeds the second value) to (the part that does not exceed) the stored value of the second counter 222.

[0147] (Loan Restrictions) In this embodiment, an operation on the loan button 403 or replay button 404 on the dedicated unit 400 is accepted as a loan operation (a game value transfer operation), and a predetermined number of game values ​​(for example, 125) are transferred (loaned) from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1 based on the loan operation, and the frame control board 201 increases the number of possessed balls by the number of game values ​​transferred. If the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000", the frame control board 201 does not accept the loan and controls so as not to increase the stored value of the second counter 222. Note that the third value "100000" is smaller than the second value "990000".

[0148] The frame control board 201 determines whether the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000" at the time of receiving a lending command based on a lending operation from the dedicated unit 400, and if the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000", does not execute the process of adding a value equivalent to a predetermined number of game values ​​to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on the lending command. In other words, when the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000", the frame control board 201 performs control so as not to accept lending of game values ​​(executes processing to prohibit lending of game values).

[0149] In addition, if the stored value of the second counter 222 is less than the third value "100000" (for example, "99999") at the time the frame control board 201 receives a lending command based on a lending operation from the dedicated unit 400, the frame control board 201 performs a process of adding a value equivalent to a predetermined number of game values ​​to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on the lending command.

[0150] (Complete function activated) The frame control memory 203 of the frame control board 201 is provided with a first counter 221 (MY counter). The frame control board 201 is capable of transmitting information related to the stored value of the first counter 221 to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 manages whether to activate the complete function (whether to execute processing related to game stop) based on the stored value of the first counter 221. When the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches a specific value (first value) of "95000" or more (when it reaches the first value), the main control board 200 detects a complete function activation error (sets the complete function activation error flag ON) as the complete function activation condition has been met. Note that the first value "95000" is smaller than the second value (990000) and smaller than the third value (100000).

[0151] When the main control board 200 detects a complete function activation error, it determines whether the game state is a special game state (whether a predetermined number of special games have been played). If the main control board 200 determines that the game state is not a special game state, it activates the complete function. On the other hand, if the main control board 200 determines that the game state is a special game state, it does not immediately activate the complete function, but activates the complete function upon the end of the special game state.

[0152] When the complete function is activated, the gaming machine transitions to a state in which play cannot be performed (a game stop state), and the activation of the complete function is announced. Based on receiving a command indicating the activation of the complete function from the main control board 200, the presentation control means 300 can execute a presentation (complete function activation presentation) to announce that the complete function is in operation. In this presentation, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, a black background, the words "Complete function in operation" (white text), and the words "The maximum payout limit for one day has been reached. Play ends for today" (white text) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and a voice message stating "The maximum payout limit for one day has been reached. Play ends for today" is output from the speaker 14.

[0153] After power is turned on, the frame control board 201 updates the stored value of the first counter 221 based on the maximum difference in the number of balls in the game value (MY: the increase in the game value from the point when the game value has decreased the most after power is turned on). The stored value of the first counter 221 is updated based on the value related to the acquisition of game value (prize balls) and the value related to the use of game value.

[0154] When a power outage (power failure) occurs and the power is restored, the value stored in the first counter 221 is reset to "0." In this embodiment, after power is turned on, when the value stored in the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000," a complete function operation error is detected. The main control board 200 performs a process to cancel the complete function operation error based on the execution of a RAM clear (power failure recovery with RAM clear) as a recovery operation (cancellation operation) for the complete function operation error.

[0155] As described above, if the game state is a special game state when the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000," the complete function is activated after the special game state ends. Therefore, the stored value of the first counter 221 can be a predetermined value greater than the first value "95000." Note that, when the game state waits for the special game state to end, the activation of the complete function occurs after the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000." However, when the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000," the main control board 200 executes processing (at least detection of a complete function activation error) to activate the complete function (to stop the game).

[0156] If the game state is a special game state at the time the complete function activation error is detected, the effect control means 300 executes a complete function activation notice effect. In this effect, for example, as shown in Figure 12, the words "The complete function will be activated and the game will stop after the win ends" are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and a voice saying "The complete function will be activated and the game will stop after the win ends" is output from the speaker 14. This allows the player to understand that the complete function will be activated after the win ends without interrupting the win.

[0157] (Specific circumstances) The stored value of the first counter 221 (MY counter) is reset to "0" upon power recovery. On the other hand, the second counter 222 (game ball count counter) is not reset upon power recovery (power recovery without clearing the game ball count). For this reason, when power is repeatedly interrupted and restored, a "specific situation" may occur in which the stored value of the first counter 221 is a predetermined value less than the first value "95000" and the stored value of the second counter 222 is a predetermined value less than the second value "990000" (a value that will soon reach the second value, for example, "989990"). In this embodiment, when the payout of prize balls (for example, 15 balls) is determined in the specific situation, and the value obtained by adding the predetermined value (15) related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000," the predetermined value (15) related to the payout is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222.

[0158] In this embodiment, in a specific situation, the predetermined value (15) related to the payout is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222, and therefore the predetermined value (15) related to the payout is not added to the stored value of the first counter 221. Note that the predetermined value (15) related to the payout may be configured to be added to the stored value of the first counter 221, rather than being added to the stored value of the second counter 222. Furthermore, as described above, when a portion (10) of the predetermined value (15) related to the payout is added to the stored value of the second counter 222, and the portion (5) exceeding the second value "990000" is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222, the portion (10) of the predetermined value related to the payout may be added to the stored value of the first counter 221.

[0159] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A first counter (MY counter 221), A second counter (a game ball number counter 222), A game value control means (main control board 200, frame control board 201) for controlling game values; A game stop control means (main control board 200) that controls the stop of a game; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value, the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the first counter based on the payout of the gaming value; The game stop control means executes a process for stopping the game when the stored value of the first counter reaches a first value ("95000"); the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the second counter based on the payout of gaming value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the second counter to a second value ("990000") greater than the first value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the second counter reaches a third value ("100000") that is smaller than the second value; In a specific situation where the stored value of the first counter is less than the first value and the stored value of the second counter is less than the second value, if a payout of game value occurs and the value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter is greater than the second value, the game value control means does not add the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter.

[0160] This simplifies the processing required when a special situation occurs, reducing the processing load. Furthermore, because the processing is simple, the processing speed can be increased and the program size can be reduced compared to when complex processing is required to prepare for special situations.

[0161] In this embodiment, as described above, a transition to a small win gaming state occurs upon winning a "small win" in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery), and the small win gaming state ends when a predetermined number of small win games (one in this embodiment) have been played. Furthermore, during a small win game, the special device 56 enters an open state, allowing the game ball to enter the large prize opening 50, and the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state. Specifically, during a small win game, the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state so that a game ball that enters the large prize opening 50 during the execution of the small win game can easily (possibly) pass through the specific area. As a result, when either "small win 1" or "small win 2" is won in the second special symbol lottery, it becomes easy (possible) for the game ball to pass through the specific area in the small win gaming state. Then, when the passage of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the small win game state (when the passage of a game ball that has entered the large prize opening 50 through a specific area is detected during the execution of the small win game), a special game state is initiated based on the end of the small win game state.

[0162] If the main control board 200 determines that the activation conditions for the complete function have been met during a small win game (the stored value of the first counter 221 has reached the first value "95000") and detects the passage of the gaming ball through a specific area, it waits for the special game state to end and activates the complete function based on the end of the special game state. Note that if it determines that the activation conditions for the complete function have been met during a small win game but the passage of the gaming ball through a specific area is not detected, the special game state will not start. In this case, the main control board 200 activates the complete function without waiting for the end of the special game state.

[0163] Based on the decision to pay out prize balls, the main control board 200 transmits a prize ball command (payout command) that instructs the payout of prize balls to the frame control board 201. Furthermore, based on the input of a lending operation, the dedicated unit 400 transmits a lending command (a command that instructs the transfer of a predetermined number of game values) to the frame control board 201. Here, a situation in which the stored value of the second counter 222 is a value less than the third value "100000" (say "99999") and the timing at which the frame control board 201 receives the prize ball command and the timing at which it receives the lending command are the same (identical timing) is defined as a "special situation."

[0164] In the special situation, the process of adding a predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on the reception of a prize ball command is performed first, and if the stored value of the second counter 222 becomes equal to or greater than the third value "100000", the process of adding a predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on the reception of a loan command is not executed. On the other hand, in the special situation, a process of adding a predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on the receipt of a loan command is first performed, and if the stored value of the second counter 222 becomes equal to or greater than the third value "100000", a process of adding a predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on the receipt of a prize ball command is executed.

[0165] In this embodiment, as described above, when the power is turned on while the game ball count clear switch is pressed (when power is restored from a power outage), the game ball count is cleared. Based on receiving a command from the main control board 200 indicating that the game ball count has been cleared, the presentation control means 300 can execute a presentation that notifies the user that the game ball count has been cleared, as shown in FIG. 13. In this presentation, a black background and the words "The game balls have been cleared" (in white letters) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and a warning sound is output from the speaker 14 along with a voice saying "The game balls have been cleared." In addition to the words "The game balls have been cleared," a predetermined code corresponding to the game ball count being cleared may also be displayed.

[0166] In this embodiment, after a power outage that involves clearing the number of game balls is restored and communication is established between the main control board 200 and the frame control board 201, even if an error (including a setting change) is detected in the main control board 200, or even if communication between the gaming machine (frame control board 201) and the dedicated unit 400 is not possible (not established) (a dispensing device unconnection error) is detected, a notification that the number of game balls has been cleared is given priority. In other words, a notification related to the clearing of the number of game balls is given a high priority. Note that "a notification that the number of game balls has been cleared is given priority" does not necessarily mean that only the execution of the clearing of the number of game balls is notified, but rather that at least the execution of the clearing of the number of game balls is notified, and other notifications (error notifications) may be executed in parallel with the notification of the execution of the clearing of the number of game balls.

[0167] (Counting warning) As described above, when the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000," the frame control board 201 controls the game so that the loan of game value is not accepted (executes the game value loan prohibition process). Furthermore, when the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000," the main control board 200 transmits a counting warning command to the sub-control board 202. Based on receiving the counting warning command, the presentation control means 300 can execute the counting warning presentation shown in FIG. 14. In this presentation, the words "Please perform counting" are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. The counting warning presentation ends when counting is performed and the stored value of the second counter 222 falls below the third value "100000." While the counting warning presentation is being executed, the game value loan prohibition process is executed, and the game value cannot be loaned.

[0168] The effect control means 300 can execute an effect (complete function activation effect) that notifies the activation of the complete function, as shown in Fig. 11, based on receiving a command indicating activation of the complete function from the main control board 200. Here, we will explain the case where the execution condition for the counting warning effect and the execution condition for the complete function activation effect are met simultaneously (both) (for example, when the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000" and the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000"), or when the execution condition for the complete function activation effect is met while the counting warning effect is being executed.

[0169] In this embodiment, the priority of the notification (display) related to the activation of the complete function is set higher than the priority of the notification (display) related to the counting warning. Therefore, when the complete function activation effect is executed, the text "Please count" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed. At this time, in terms of the effect, the text "Please count" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed, but the frame control board 201 continues to execute the game value lending prohibition process based on the fact that the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000." In other words, the text "Please count" is not displayed, but the state in which lending of game value is not accepted continues. It should be noted that even if the complete function is in operation, the loan of the gaming value can be accepted if the stored value of the second counter 222 is less than the third value "100000". Furthermore, the priority of the notification (initialization notification screen) related to the initialization may be set higher than the priority of the notification (display) related to the count warning. When the power is turned on, if the stored value of the second counter 222 has reached the third value "100000" and an initialization process such as a setting change is performed, the initialization notification screen is displayed first, and the text "Please count" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed. At this time, the text "Please count" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed in terms of the effect, but the frame control board 201 continues to execute the game value lending prohibition process based on the fact that the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000." In other words, the text "Please count" is not displayed, but the state in which lending of game value is not accepted continues. Note that, even though the lending prohibition process is being executed, it is possible to execute the game value counting process. In addition, the priority of notifications (error notification screens) related to certain errors (for example, errors related to fraud such as fraudulent winning errors or magnetic errors) may be set higher than the priority of notifications (displays) related to counting warnings. When the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000" and an error related to fraud is detected, a fraud error notification screen is displayed first, and the text "Please count" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed. At this time, the text "Please count" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed in terms of the effect, but the frame control board 201 continues to execute the game value lending prohibition process based on the fact that the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000." In other words, the text "Please count" is not displayed, but the state in which lending of game value is not accepted continues. Note that, even though the lending prohibition process is being executed, it is possible to execute the game value counting process. In this embodiment, if a first event, in which the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches a predetermined value, and a second event different from the first event (for example, the activation of the complete function, a setting change process, an illegal winning error, a magnetic error, etc.) occur simultaneously, the notification related to the second event is executed in priority over the notification related to the first event, but even in that case, the lending prohibition process is executed.

[0170] The presentation control means 300 can output a counting sound (for example, a sound effect such as "ringing") from the speaker 14 based on the counting button 212 being pressed (as the counting process is executed). The counting sound (sound related to counting) is not limited to one that is output during the execution of the counting process, but may also be a sound (a line) that is output when the counting process ends (when the number of balls held reaches "0"). The presentation control means 300 can also output presentation sounds (such as background music or predetermined sound effects according to the game status) from the speaker 14. When the counting button 212 is pressed while a sound effect is being output, the effect control means 300 outputs the sound effect and reduces the volume of the sound effect being output. Note that "reducing the volume" includes setting the volume to "0" (mute). By reducing the volume of the sound effect while outputting the sound effect, the sound effect becomes easier for the player to recognize (hear).

[0171] (Complete function activation warning) When the value stored in the first counter 221 reaches a predetermined value "90,000" that is smaller than the first value "95,000," the main control board 200 transmits an activation warning command to the sub-control board 202. Based on receiving the activation warning command, the performance control means 300 can execute the complete function activation warning performance shown in FIG. 15 . In this performance, the text "Approximately 5,000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is displayed on the LCD display 32, and a voice (activation warning voice) stating "Approximately 5,000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is output from the speaker 14. In this embodiment, the counting button 212 can be pressed to count even while the complete function activation warning performance is being executed. If the counting button 212 is pressed while the activation warning voice is being output, the performance control means 300 outputs the counting sound without reducing the volume of the activation warning voice being output. The activation warning sound is used to notify the player in advance of the activation of the complete function, and since the notification has a high priority, the volume of the sound is not reduced, unlike the effect sound.

[0172] When the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches a predetermined value "91000" that is smaller than the first value "95000", the main control board 200 transmits an activation warning command to the sub-control board 202. Based on receiving the activation warning command, the performance control means 300 is capable of executing a complete function activation warning performance, in which the text "Approximately 4000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 and a voice (activation warning voice) stating "Approximately 4000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is output from the speaker 14. Furthermore, when the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches a predetermined value "92000" that is smaller than the first value "95000", the main control board 200 transmits an activation warning command to the sub-control board 202. Based on receiving the activation warning command, the performance control means 300 can execute a complete function activation warning performance, in which the words "Approximately 3000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 and a voice (activation warning voice) saying "Approximately 3000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is output from the speaker 14.

[0173] In this way, after the stored value of the first counter 221 exceeds "90000," the complete function activation warning effect is executed (updated) each time the thousands digit of the stored value is incremented. Note that, when the stored value of the first counter 221 is "90000" or greater, the text related to the complete function activation warning effect (FIG. 15) is continuously displayed, and the text is updated each time the thousands digit of the stored value of the first counter 221 is incremented. For example, when the stored value of the first counter 221 is between "91000" and "91999," the text "Approximately 4000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is displayed, and when the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches "92000," the text "Approximately 3000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is displayed.

[0174] (error) The main control board 200 (frame control board 201) can detect an error (abnormality) based on the establishment of an error detection condition, and upon detecting an error, transmits an error command indicating the detection of the error to the sub-control board 202. The performance control means 300 can execute a performance to notify the occurrence of the error based on the reception of the error command. FIG. 16 shows a case where the inner frame 7 (front frame 10) is in an open state and a performance to notify the occurrence of a door opening error is executed based on the detection of a door opening error. In this performance, a single-color (e.g., black) background and the words "Door Open" are displayed on the LCD display 32, and a warning sound and a voice saying "Door Open" are output from the speaker 14. Although not shown, the words "Please call an attendant" may be displayed on the LCD display 32 and a voice saying "Please call an attendant" may be output from the speaker 14.

[0175] In this embodiment, it is possible to press the counting button 212 and perform counting even while an effect that notifies the occurrence of a predetermined error is being executed. If the counting button 212 is pressed while a sound (error sound) related to the error notification is being output, the effect control means 300 outputs the counting sound and does not reduce the volume of the error sound being output. The error sound notifies the gaming parlor staff and the like that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine, and because it has a high notification priority, its volume is not reduced, unlike the effect sound.

[0176] As shown in FIG. 1 , the front frame 10 is provided with a light intensity adjustment button 213, a volume adjustment button 214, and a cross key 215. The player can adjust the volume (volume) of the sound output from the speaker 14 by pressing the volume adjustment button 214. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the sounds output from the speaker 14 include sounds output at a volume (user volume) based on the setting made by the volume adjustment button 214, and sounds output at a preset volume (a relatively loud volume equal to or greater than a predetermined volume) that is not based on the setting made by the volume adjustment button 214. The counting sound, the activation warning sound (for example, there are approximately 5,000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated), and the error sound are sounds output at a preset volume that is not based on the setting made by the volume adjustment button 214.

[0177] By pressing the volume adjustment button 214 (or the cross key 215 if the volume adjustment button 214 is not provided) during play, the player can display a volume adjustment screen on the liquid crystal display 32, and by pressing the volume adjustment button 214 (for example, the upper or lower side), adjust the volume of the sound output from the speaker 14. At this time, the sound (audio) corresponding to the pressing is output at the (current) set volume (changed volume).

[0178] The predetermined state is a state in which a power outage occurs, the power is turned on, the recovery process from the power outage is executed in the gaming machine (main control board 200, frame control board 201 and sub-control board 202) (recovery state), and it is detected that the gaming machine and the dedicated unit 400 are not connected (rental device unconnection error). In the predetermined state, a display (e.g., a black background and white text) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 to notify (indicate) that the dedicated unit 400 is not connected. Even if the volume adjustment button 214 is pressed in the predetermined state, the volume adjustment screen is not displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. However, if the volume adjustment button 214 is pressed in the predetermined state, the volume of the sound output from the speaker 14 is changed in response to the button press. Specifically, the sound (audio) corresponding to the button press is output at the (current) set volume (changed volume). In this embodiment, after power is restored, a display is displayed to notify (indicate) that the dedicated unit 400 is not connected, and even if the volume adjustment screen is not displayed, the volume can be changed by operating the volume adjustment button 214.

[0179] The presentation control means 300 can execute a demo presentation when a state in which the player is not playing continues for a predetermined time (i.e., at a predetermined timing after the end of the game). For example, when the presentation control means 300 determines that no operation has been performed on a predetermined operating means of the gaming machine for a certain time (e.g., one minute) (a certain time has passed without any operation being performed on a predetermined operating means of the gaming machine), it determines that the demo presentation execution condition has been met and executes the demo presentation. When the demo presentation is executed, a demo image related to the demo presentation is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. The demo image is, for example, a movie (video) related to the gaming machine, such as a story explanation of the story that unfolds in the gaming machine or an explanation (introduction) of the characters. In this embodiment, the demo image is a movie of approximately 60 seconds, including an introduction of the characters. Note that when a series (one) of demo presentations is completed, the demo presentation is executed again from the beginning (looped).

[0180] In this embodiment, during the execution of the demo effect (as a demo effect), a logo display, a supplementary explanation display, and an addiction prevention display are displayed on the LCD display 32. The logo display is a logo display indicating that the gaming machine is a controlled gaming machine. The supplementary explanation display is a warning display regarding the controlled gaming machine, such as a display containing text such as "Please be careful not to forget to count (credit settlement) and not to forget to remove or have your card stolen." The addiction prevention display is a warning display for the player, such as a display containing text such as "Be careful not to get addicted. Pachinko and pachislot are games that should be enjoyed in moderation." The logo display, supplementary explanation display, and addiction prevention display may be displayed at the same time for the same period, or may be displayed sequentially (with no period during which they are displayed simultaneously). Alternatively, two displays (e.g., a logo display and a supplementary explanation display) may be displayed at the same time for the same period, and the addiction prevention display may be displayed after the two displays have ended.

[0181] As described above, upon receiving a predetermined command (activation warning command), the effect control means 300 executes a complete function activation warning effect ( FIG. 15 ), displaying the text "Approximately 5,000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated." If the demo effect execution condition is met while the effect is being executed, the demo effect is executed. In this embodiment, the text display related to the complete function activation warning effect continues to be displayed even when the demo effect is initiated. If the text display were to disappear upon the start of the demo effect, a new player might start playing without realizing that the complete function is about to be activated, potentially resulting in dissatisfaction after the start of the game. According to this embodiment, the text display is displayed even during the execution of the demo effect, informing the player that the complete function is about to be activated, thereby reducing the likelihood of player dissatisfaction.

[0182] In this embodiment, while a demo effect is being executed, a logo display, a supplementary explanation display, and an anti-addiction display are displayed, but the text display related to the complete function activation warning effect (e.g., "Approximately 5,000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated") is displayed in a position that does not overlap with these displays. In other words, when the logo display, supplementary explanation display, or anti-addiction display is displayed, the text display is hidden so that the visibility of the text display is not reduced. This makes it possible for the text display to be easily recognized by the player. Note that the text display may be temporarily hidden due to the display of other displays during the execution of the demo effect.

[0183] The gaming machine of this embodiment may be configured so that the settings (at least the settings relating to the winning probability of the special symbol lottery) can be changed. Here, the procedure for changing the settings will be described. (1) Turn off the power to the gaming machine. (2) Insert the door key into the key cylinder and open the door (inner frame 7 and front frame 10). (3) Insert the setting key into the setting key switch (not shown) on the main control board 200 and rotate the setting key clockwise. (4) While pressing the RAM clear switch on the main control board 200, the gaming machine is powered on. This puts the gaming machine into a state where the setting values ​​can be changed (setting change state). At this time, RAM clear (RAM clear processing) is executed, and at least a portion of the information stored in the RAM of the main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is initialized (reset). (5) In the setting change state, press the RAM clear switch to change the setting value. The setting value changes each time the RAM clear switch is pressed, and for example, one of six setting values ​​is set. (6) Rotate the setting key counterclockwise to return it to its original position (to confirm the setting value). (7) Remove the setting key from the setting key switch and close the door.

[0184] As described above, the effect control means 300 can execute the counting warning effect shown in FIG. 14 when the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) is equal to or greater than the third value (specific value) "100,000." In this effect, the text "Please perform counting" is displayed on the LCD display 32. In addition, in this effect, a voice saying "Please perform counting" may be output from the speaker 14. Hereinafter, the text "Please perform counting" will be referred to as the "counting warning display," and the voice saying "Please perform counting" will be referred to as the "counting warning voice." The counting warning effect is an effect that prompts the player to count (operate the counting button 212). The counting warning effect ends when counting is performed and the stored value of the second counter 222 becomes less than the third value "100,000." While the counting warning effect is being executed, a process for prohibiting lending of gaming value is executed, and lending of gaming value is not permitted.

[0185] Here, a case where a power outage occurs in a state (situation) in which a count warning effect is being executed based on the stored value of the second counter 222 being equal to or greater than the third value "100000" will be described.

[0186] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, a device check is performed when the power is turned on (when power is restored after a power outage). The device check is a check of the operation of each effect device. The effect control means 300 performs a device check based on the restoration of power from the power outage and causes each effect device to perform an effect (operate each effect device) in a predetermined pattern. Here, the device check related to the speaker 14 will be described. Assume that the gaming machine of this embodiment includes four speakers 14, namely, an upper left speaker, an upper right speaker, a lower right speaker, and a lower left speaker. Based on the start of the device check, the effect control means 300 outputs a predetermined sound (specific sound) from each speaker in sequence. For example, first, the sound "upper left" is output from the upper left speaker, then the sound "upper right" is output from the upper right speaker, then the sound "lower right" is output from the lower right speaker, and then the sound "lower left" is output from the lower left speaker. Then, a cycle of upper left output → upper right output → lower right output → lower left output is repeatedly executed. The performance control means 300 ends the device check, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the device check.

[0187] In this embodiment, when power is restored from a power outage, a sound (specific sound) related to a device check is output, but the specific sound output upon restoration of power from a power outage is not limited to this and may be, for example, a predetermined piece of music (BGM).

[0188] Whether the recovery from a power outage involves clearing the RAM or not, the stored value of the second counter 222 is not reset. As described above, the stored value of the second counter 222 is initialized when the number of game balls is cleared.

[0189] Upon recovery from power outage, the performance control means 300 outputs a specific sound. Furthermore, upon receiving information indicating that power has been restored from power outage and that the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000," the performance control means 300 executes part of the counting warning performance. Specifically, the counting warning display is displayed, but the counting warning sound is not output. In other words, the output of the specific sound is given priority over the output of the counting warning sound.

[0190] When the counting button 212 is operated (pressed), the frame control board 201 executes a counting process and transfers (returns) the game value to the dedicated unit 400. Based on the operation of the counting button 212, the performance control means 300 outputs a sound (counting sound: for example, a ringing sound) that notifies the execution of the counting process.

[0191] In this embodiment, if the counting button 212 is pressed while a specific sound is being output after power is restored, counting is performed based on that, and the counting sound is output. By outputting the counting sound even while a specific sound is being output, it becomes easier to recognize that the counting button 212 has been pressed (that counting has been performed). The performance control means 300 is capable of outputting sounds to be played on each track, and the specific sound and the counting sound are each played on a different track.

[0192] As described above, the main control board 200 executes the first special symbol lottery and dispenses prize balls based on the detection of a gaming ball entering the first starting hole 46 (or based on the reserved first special random number value). The main control board 200 also dispenses prize balls based on the entry of a gaming ball into the general winning hole 47 (upper-left general winning hole 47a, center-left general winning hole 47b, or lower-left general winning hole 47c). The performance control means 300 outputs a winning sound as a performance sound related to the progress of the game based on receiving information from the main control board 200 indicating that a gaming ball has entered the starting hole (general winning hole). The performance control means 300 also executes a performance of variable display of the performance symbols on the liquid crystal display 32 and outputs a variable sound as a performance sound related to the progress of the game based on receiving information from the main control board 200 indicating that the variable display of the first special symbol related to the first special symbol lottery has begun.

[0193] If the effect control means 300 receives information from the main control board 200 indicating that a gaming ball has entered the starting slot (general winning slot) or that the variable display of the first special symbol related to the first special symbol lottery has begun while the specific sound is being output after power is restored, the effect control means 300 does not output any effect sounds related to the progress of the game (winning sound, variable sound) based on the reception of such information. In other words, while the specific sound is being output, the effect sounds related to the progress of the game are not output. In other words, the output of the specific sound is given priority over the output of effect sounds related to the progress of the game. Note that, if the first special symbol becomes variable and the variable display of the first special symbol begins while the specific sound is being output after power is restored, the variable sound is not output, but the variable display of the effect symbol is still executed on the LCD display 32.

[0194] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, there are three states when power is restored after a power outage: a first state, a second state, and a third state.

[0195] (First state: No winning possible, no change has started) The gaming machine of this embodiment is equipped with a status display unit 70 (main display) shown in FIG. 4. The status display unit 70 is not illuminated (non-illuminated) when power is interrupted. When power is restored, the main control board 200, the sub-control board 202, and the frame control board 201 execute a restoration process. Here, the state of the gaming machine from when the power is turned on until the previously non-illuminated status display unit 70 is illuminated is referred to as the "first state." In the first state, the status display unit 70 is non-illuminated, but the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) displays text indicating that restoration is in progress (e.g., "Now Loading") on the LCD display 32. Note that the first state can be considered a state in which the main control board 200 has not yet been restored. In the first state, the first start port switch 100, which detects a gaming ball entering the first start port 46, is in the OFF state.

[0196] (Second state: Possible to win, change has not yet started) The state following (next to) the first state, in which the status display unit 70 is lit but the variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol) is not executed (started), is referred to as the "second state." The second state can be said to be a state in which the main control board 200 is partially restored (a state in the middle of restoration). In the second state, the first start port switch 100, which detects a gaming ball that has entered the first start port 46, is in the ON state. In the second state, when a gaming ball enters the first start port 46, a first special random number value based on the entry is stored (reserved) in the special random number storage means 2914.

[0197] In the second state, the effect control means 300 can execute a hold effect (such as FIG. 9(a)) that displays the first hold image 420 on the liquid crystal display 32 based on receiving information that the first special random number value is stored (held) in the special random number storage means 2914. In other words, the hold effect is executed from the second state after power is restored. Note that in the second state, the variable display of the first special symbol is not executed, and therefore the variable display effect of the effect symbol is not executed on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0198] In the second state, the performance control means 300 executes a counting warning performance based on receiving information indicating that the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000", causes the counting warning display (FIG. 14) to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and causes the counting warning sound to be output from the speaker 14. In other words, the counting warning performance is executed from the second state after power is restored (triggered by entering the second state).

[0199] If a door open error is detected after power is restored, in the second state, the performance control means 300 can execute a performance to notify the occurrence of the error based on receiving information indicating the detection of the error. In other words, from the second state after power is restored (triggered by the transition to the second state), a performance to notify the occurrence of a door open error is executed, and a door open warning sound (for example, a sound saying "The door is open") is output. Note that the counting warning sound and the door open warning sound can be output simultaneously.

[0200] (Third state: Possible to win, change start state) The state following (next to) the second state, in which the status indicator 70 lights up and the variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol) can begin (a state where it can be started), is referred to as the "third state." The third state can be said to be a state in which the main control board 200 has fully recovered (a state in which recovery has been completed). In the third state, the first start port switch 100, which detects a gaming ball entering the first start port 46, is in the ON state. In the third state, a first special symbol lottery is executed based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 (or based on the reserved first special random number value). In the third state, the performance control means 300 can execute a variable display performance of the performance symbol based on receiving information indicating that the variable display of the first special symbol has been executed. In other words, the variable display performance of the performance symbol can be executed from the third state after power is restored (triggered by the transition to the third state).

[0201] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, The performance control means displaying a count warning message to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output when power is restored from an interruption. power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored from the power cut off, if the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; While the specific sound is being output, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output.

[0202] When the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. Furthermore, if a power outage occurs while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is still equal to or greater than the specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. The counting warning display does not end due to a power outage, and the counting warning display is displayed again after the power is restored. Therefore, even if a power outage occurs, the player can be encouraged to continue counting across the power outage. In other words, the fact that the counting warning display is no longer displayed after a power outage can be prevented from occurring, preventing a situation in which a player does not perform counting. Furthermore, it can be prevented that a player does not perform counting and the stored value of the specific counter becomes excessively large.

[0203] Furthermore, the specific sound is output when power is restored from a power outage, and while the specific sound is being output, no sound effects related to the progress of the game are output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound related to counting is output. This makes it easier for players to recognize that counting has been performed. It also prevents the sound related to counting from being drowned out by the sound effects related to the progress of the game.

[0204] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, the effect control means displays a count warning display to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means returns from power interruption through the first state, the second state, and the third state in this order, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special symbol can be started, The performance control means cuts off power when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, displays the count warning display in response to the main control means entering the second state.

[0205] When the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. Furthermore, if a power outage occurs while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is still equal to or greater than the specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. The counting warning display does not end due to a power outage, and the counting warning display is displayed again after the power is restored. Therefore, even if a power outage occurs, the player can be encouraged to continue counting across the power outage. In other words, the fact that the counting warning display is no longer displayed after a power outage can be prevented from occurring, preventing a situation in which a player does not perform counting. Furthermore, it can be prevented that a player does not perform counting and the stored value of the specific counter becomes excessively large.

[0206] Furthermore, if a power outage occurs while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed from the second state before the main control means enters the third state after power is restored, thereby prompting the player to count more quickly after power is restored.

[0207] As described above, when no operation is performed on a predetermined operating means of the gaming machine for a predetermined time (e.g., one minute) (when no game is played for the predetermined time), the performance control means 300 determines that the demo performance execution condition (predetermined condition) is met, executes the demo performance, and displays a demo image on the LCD display 32. When the demo performance execution condition is met while the counting warning display is being displayed based on the stored value of the second counter 222 being equal to or greater than the third value "100000," the performance control means 300 continues to display the counting warning display (without hiding it) and further displays the demo image. In other words, the display priority of the counting warning display is set higher than the display priority of the demo image (it is arranged in a higher layer). The performance control means 300 can also display a menu image (menu screen) based on the operation of a predetermined operating means (e.g., the cross key 215). When the predetermined operating means is operated while the counting warning display is being displayed, the performance control means 300 continues to display the counting warning display and displays the menu image. In other words, the display priority of the counting warning display is set higher than the display priority of the menu image (it is arranged in a higher layer). Note that the counting warning display may be set to a state where it is not displayed when the menu image starts to be displayed. In other words, the display priority of the counting warning display may be set lower than the display priority of the menu image. Furthermore, if the counting warning display continues to be displayed and a demo image is also displayed, the logo display, supplementary explanation display, and anti-addiction display are displayed during the execution of the demo performance, but the counting warning display is displayed in a position that does not overlap with all or at least one of these displays. In other words, when the logo display, supplementary explanation display, or anti-addiction display is displayed, the counting warning display is hidden so that the visibility of the counting warning display is not reduced.

[0208] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, The performance control means displaying a count warning message to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; When a predetermined condition is met based on the fact that no game has been played for a predetermined time, a demo image is displayed; If the predetermined condition is met while the counting warning display is being displayed, the counting warning display is continued to be displayed and the demo image is displayed; A specific sound is output when power is restored from an interruption. power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored from the power cut off, if the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; While the specific sound is being output, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output.

[0209] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, The presentation control means displays a counting warning display to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value, displays a demo image when a predetermined condition is met based on no play being performed for a predetermined time, and continues to display the counting warning display and displays the demo image when the predetermined condition is met while the counting warning display is being displayed, The main control means returns from power interruption through the first state, the second state, and the third state in this order, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special symbol can be started, The performance control means cuts off power when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, displays the count warning display in response to the main control means entering the second state.

[0210] Even when the display of the demo image is started based on the fulfillment of the predetermined condition, the counting warning display continues to be displayed. The counting warning display is not hidden in conjunction with the display of the demo image. Therefore, the player can be prompted to count even while the demo image is being displayed.

[0211] The main control board 200 transitions the gaming machine to a state where it is not possible to play (non-playable state) based on the detection that communication with the dedicated unit 400 is not connected. Even in the non-playable state, the frame control board 201 can display the number of balls held (the value stored in the second counter 222) on the gaming value number display device 211.

[0212] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to the lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; and a game value number display means (game value number display device 211) capable of displaying the stored value and informing the number of game values ​​available for play, The performance control means displaying a count warning message to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output when power is restored from an interruption. power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored from the power cut off, if the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; While the specific sound is being output, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; The main control means, based on the detection that communication with the specific unit is not connected, causes the device to transition to a game-disabled state, The gaming value control means causes the gaming value number display means to display the stored value even when it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected.

[0213] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to the lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; and a game value number display means (game value number display device 211) capable of displaying the stored value and informing the number of game values ​​available for play, the effect control means displays a count warning display to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means returns from power interruption through the first state, the second state, and the third state in this order, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special symbol can be started, the performance control means cuts off power when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, causes the main control means to enter the second state and display the count warning display; The main control means, based on the detection that communication with the specific unit is not connected, causes the device to transition to a game-disabled state, The gaming value control means causes the gaming value number display means to display the stored value even when it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected.

[0214] When communication with the specific unit is not established, the state transitions to a state where play is not possible, but even in this case, the stored value is displayed on the game value number display means, so that the player can grasp the number of game values ​​available for play even in the state where play is not possible.

[0215] The presentation control means 300 can display a demo image when no game has been played for a predetermined period of time. It can also display a menu image when a predetermined operation means (e.g., the cross key 215) is operated. When a trigger related to the progress of the game occurs while a demo image or menu image is being displayed, for example, when an operation to launch a game medium into the game area is performed (the grip unit 20 is rotated) or when a game ball enters (wins) a predetermined area of ​​the game board 6 (e.g., the first starting hole 46), the demo image or menu image is hidden. On the other hand, when the counting operation means (the counting button 212) is operated while a demo image or menu image is being displayed, the demo image or menu image is not hidden (the display continues).

[0216] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, The performance control means displaying a count warning message to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output when power is restored from an interruption. power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored from the power cut off, if the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; While the specific sound is being output, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; A demo image can be displayed based on the fact that no game has been played for a predetermined period of time, A menu image can be displayed based on the operation of a predetermined operation means, When a trigger related to the progress of a game occurs while the demo image or the menu image is being displayed, the demo image or the menu image is not displayed; When the counting operation means is operated while the demo image or the menu image is being displayed, the demo image or the menu image is not hidden.

[0217] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, the effect control means displays a count warning display to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means returns from power interruption through the first state, the second state, and the third state in this order, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special symbol can be started, the performance control means cuts off power when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, causes the main control means to enter the second state and display the count warning display; A demo image can be displayed based on the fact that no game has been played for a predetermined period of time, A menu image can be displayed based on the operation of a predetermined operation means, When a trigger related to the progress of a game occurs while the demo image or the menu image is being displayed, the demo image or the menu image is not displayed; When the counting operation means is operated while the demo image or the menu image is being displayed, the demo image or the menu image is not hidden.

[0218] The demo image or menu image is hidden when a trigger related to the progress of the game occurs, but is not hidden when the counting operation means is operated. In other words, when the counting operation means, which is frequently operated at the end of a game, is operated, the display of the demo image or menu image does not end. Therefore, the player can continue to view the demo image or menu image even when counting is performed.

[0219] The presentation control means 300 is capable of executing the counting warning presentation shown in Fig. 14 when the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) is equal to or greater than a third value (specific value, first specific value) of 100000. The frame control board 201 (game value control means) is capable of updating the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) based on the payout of game value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the second counter 222 to a second value (second specific value) (990000), and the lending control means (frame control board 201) controls so as not to accept lending of game value when the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) reaches a third value (third specific value) (100000) that is smaller than the second value. Furthermore, in a situation where the stored value of the second counter 222 is less than the second value, if a payout of game value occurs and the value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter 222 is greater than the second value, the frame control board 201 (game value control means) does not add the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter 222. Note that in this embodiment, the first specific value and the third specific value are equal, but this is not limiting, and the two may be different.

[0220] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value, The performance control means displaying a count warning message to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a first specific value; A specific sound is output when power is restored from an interruption. power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the first specific value, and when the power is restored from the power cut and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the first specific value, the count warning display is displayed; While the specific sound is being output, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the specific counter based on the payout of gaming value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the specific counter to a second specific value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the specific counter reaches a third specific value that is smaller than the second specific value; When a payout of game value occurs in a situation where the stored value of the specific counter is less than the second specific value, and the value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter is greater than the second specific value, the game value control means does not add the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter.

[0221] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value, the effect control means displays a count warning display to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a first specific value; The main control means returns from power interruption through the first state, the second state, and the third state in this order, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special symbol can be started, The performance control means cuts off power when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the first specific value, and when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the first specific value after power is restored, causes the main control means to enter the second state and display the count warning display. the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the specific counter based on the payout of gaming value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the specific counter to a second specific value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the specific counter reaches a third specific value that is smaller than the second specific value; When a payout of game value occurs in a situation where the stored value of the specific counter is less than the second specific value, and the value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter is greater than the second specific value, the game value control means does not add the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter.

[0222] If the value obtained by adding the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter is greater than the second specific value, the predetermined value related to the payout is not added to the stored value of the specific counter, thereby simplifying the processing and reducing the processing load. Furthermore, since the processing is simple, the processing speed can be increased and the program capacity can be reduced compared to when complex processing is provided.

[0223] When it is detected that communication with the dedicated unit 400 is not connected, the performance control means 300 displays a specific display (rental device unconnected error) indicating that communication with the dedicated unit 400 is not connected on the liquid crystal display 32. Furthermore, if the volume adjustment button 214 is operated while the specific display is being displayed, the performance control means 300 does not display an image related to volume adjustment (volume adjustment image), but executes a change in volume based on the operation. Note that, when the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) is equal to or greater than the specific value (100,000) and communication with the dedicated unit 400 is not connected, the performance control means 300 may be configured to display a specific display (display related to a notification of a rental device unconnected error) together with the count warning display.

[0224] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to the lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of performance; A volume adjustment means (volume adjustment button 214) for adjusting the volume is provided, The performance control means displaying a count warning message to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output when power is restored from an interruption. power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored from the power cut off, if the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; While the specific sound is being output, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; When it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected, a specific display indicating that communication with the specific unit is not connected is displayed; When the volume adjustment means is operated while the specific display is being displayed, an image relating to the volume adjustment is not displayed, but the volume is changed based on the operation.

[0225] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to the lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of performance; A volume adjustment means (volume adjustment button 214) for adjusting the volume is provided, the effect control means displays a count warning display to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means returns from power interruption through the first state, the second state, and the third state in this order, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special symbol can be started, The performance control means When the power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the main control means causes the count warning display to be displayed in response to the second state being entered, When it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected, a specific display indicating that communication with the specific unit is not connected is displayed; When the volume adjustment means is operated while the specific display is being displayed, an image relating to the volume adjustment is not displayed, but the volume is changed based on the operation.

[0226] While the specific display is being displayed, no image related to volume adjustment is displayed, but the volume can be changed. Since the volume cannot be changed while the specific display is being displayed, the possibility of players becoming dissatisfied can be reduced.

[0227] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of performance; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value, The performance control means displaying a count warning message to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output when power is restored from an interruption. power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored from the power cut off, if the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; While the specific sound is being output, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; the lending control means executes a lending prohibition process to prohibit lending of gaming value when the stored value of the specific counter reaches the specific value; When a first event, in which the stored value of the specific counter reaches the specific value, and a second event different from the first event occur simultaneously, the notification related to the second event is executed in priority over the count warning display related to the first event, but the lending prohibition process is executed.

[0228] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) that controls various states of the gaming machine; a counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; a status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; a specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of performance; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value, the effect control means displays a count warning display to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means returns from power interruption through the first state, the second state, and the third state in this order, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special symbol can be started, The performance control means When the power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the main control means causes the count warning display to be displayed in response to the second state being entered, the lending control means executes a lending prohibition process to prohibit lending of gaming value when the stored value of the specific counter reaches the specific value; When a first event, in which the stored value of the specific counter reaches the specific value, and a second event different from the first event occur simultaneously, the notification related to the second event is executed in priority over the count warning display related to the first event, but the lending prohibition process is executed.

[0229] Even if the count warning display becomes unrecognizable, the lending prohibition process continues to be executed, so that the stored value of the specific counter can be prevented from becoming excessively large.

[0230] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, various controls are not limited to those of the above-described embodiments. Furthermore, the present invention allows for free combinations, modifications of each component, or omission of components within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to conventional pachinko gaming machines, i.e., pachinko gaming machines in which players can physically touch gaming balls and gaming balls are paid out to a tray based on the entry of gaming balls into a predetermined winning slot. [Explanation of symbols]

[0231] 221 MY counter (first counter) 222 Game ball counter (second counter) 200 Main control board (game value control means, game stop control means) 201 Frame control board (game value control means, lending control means)

Claims

1. A first counter; A second counter; a game value control means for controlling game values; A game stop control means for controlling the stop of a game; A lending control means for controlling the acceptance of lending of gaming value, the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the first counter based on the payout of the gaming value; the game stop control means executes a process for stopping the game when the stored value of the first counter reaches a first value; the game value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the second counter based on the payout of the game value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the second counter to a second value greater than the first value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the second counter reaches a third value smaller than the second value; the game value control means, in a specific situation where the stored value of the first counter is less than the first value and the stored value of the second counter is less than the second value, when a payout of game value occurs and a value obtained by adding a predetermined value relating to the payout to the stored value of the second counter is greater than the second value, does not add the predetermined value relating to the payout to the stored value of the second counter; A specific unit capable of communicating with the specific unit capable of executing control related to the lending of gaming value; the gaming value control means is capable of receiving a first command instructing payout based on a determination of payout of gaming value, and updating the stored value of the second counter based on the first command; the lending control means is capable of receiving a second command based on input of a lending operation in the specific unit, and updating the stored value of the second counter based on the second command; If the stored value of the second counter is a predetermined value less than the third value, and the reception of the first command by the gaming value control means and the reception of the second command by the lending control means occur at the same time, the special situation is: In the special situation, the gaming machine updates the stored value of the second counter based on the first command, and if the stored value of the second counter becomes equal to or greater than the third value, does not execute the process of updating the stored value of the second counter based on the second command.

2. A first counter; A second counter; a game value control means for controlling game values; A game stop control means for controlling the stop of a game; A lending control means for controlling the acceptance of lending of gaming value, the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the first counter based on the payout of the gaming value; the game stop control means executes a process for stopping the game when the stored value of the first counter reaches a first value; the game value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the second counter based on the payout of the game value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the second counter to a second value greater than the first value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the second counter reaches a third value smaller than the second value; the game value control means, in a specific situation where the stored value of the first counter is less than the first value and the stored value of the second counter is less than the second value, when a payout of game value occurs and a value obtained by adding a predetermined value relating to the payout to the stored value of the second counter is greater than the second value, does not add the predetermined value relating to the payout to the stored value of the second counter; A specific unit capable of communicating with the specific unit capable of executing control related to the lending of gaming value; A main control means for controlling the progress of a game; a performance control means for controlling the execution of the performance; The main control means is capable of clearing the number of game balls when the power is turned on with the game ball number clear switch pressed, The effect control means is capable of executing a specific effect that notifies the player that the number of game balls has been cleared, A gaming machine in which the power is turned on with the game ball count clear switch pressed, and even if an error is detected in the main control means after communication between the main control means and the game value control means is established, or even if it is detected that communication between the game value control means and the specific unit is not possible, the specific presentation is executed with priority.

3. A first counter; A second counter; a game value control means for controlling game values; A game stop control means for controlling the stop of a game; A lending control means for controlling the acceptance of lending of gaming value, the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the first counter based on the payout of the gaming value; the game stop control means executes a process for stopping the game when the stored value of the first counter reaches a first value; the game value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the second counter based on the payout of the game value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the second counter to a second value greater than the first value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the second counter reaches a third value smaller than the second value; the game value control means, in a specific situation where the stored value of the first counter is less than the first value and the stored value of the second counter is less than the second value, when a payout of game value occurs and a value obtained by adding a predetermined value relating to the payout to the stored value of the second counter is greater than the second value, does not add the predetermined value relating to the payout to the stored value of the second counter; A main control means for controlling the progress of a game; a performance control means for controlling the execution of the performance; The performance control means is capable of executing a first performance that prompts counting based on the stored value of the second counter being equal to or greater than the third value, The effect control means is capable of executing a second effect that notifies the player of the stop of the game based on the execution of the process for stopping the game, When the execution condition of the first effect and the execution condition of the second effect are both established, the second effect is executed in priority to the first effect, but even during the execution of the second effect, the gaming machine is controlled so as not to accept loan of game value while the stored value of the second counter is equal to or greater than the third value.

4. A first counter; A second counter; a game value control means for controlling game values; A game stop control means for controlling the stop of a game; A lending control means for controlling the acceptance of lending of gaming value, the gaming value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the first counter based on the payout of the gaming value; the game stop control means executes a process for stopping the game when the stored value of the first counter reaches a first value; the game value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the second counter based on the payout of the game value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the second counter to a second value greater than the first value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the second counter reaches a third value smaller than the second value; the game value control means, in a specific situation where the stored value of the first counter is less than the first value and the stored value of the second counter is less than the second value, when a payout of game value occurs and a value obtained by adding a predetermined value relating to the payout to the stored value of the second counter is greater than the second value, does not add the predetermined value relating to the payout to the stored value of the second counter; A specific unit capable of communicating with the specific unit capable of executing control related to the lending of gaming value; A predetermined button that can adjust the volume; a display means; When the power is turned on in a power-off state, the power-off recovery process is executed, and a state in which it is detected that the gaming machine and the specific unit are not connected is determined as a predetermined state. In the predetermined state, a notification indicating that the specific unit is not connected is executed by the display means, When the specified button is pressed in the specified state, no display relating to volume adjustment is displayed on the display means, but the volume is changed based on the button being pressed.

Images