gaming machines

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of increasing the interest in games. [Solution] The results of the lottery include specific results that result in the execution of a special game that is advantageous to the player, and the specific results include a first result and a second result that is more advantageous to the player than the first result, and when a specific result is obtained in the lottery and the effect operation means is operated within a specific period of time, a specific effect can be executed that suggests that the specific result has been obtained, and at least a first type of specific effect and a second type of specific effect are provided as the specific effects, and the second type of specific effect can suggest that the second result has been obtained.

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] Furthermore, some gaming machines of this type are capable of executing a one-shot announcement effect based on a button operation by a player (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-122605 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, there is a demand for gaming machines to enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has as its object to provide a gaming machine that can increase the enjoyment of gaming. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises: A gaming machine having a gaming area in which gaming media move, and launching gaming media into the gaming area in response to a player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) that controls the progress of the game; A performance control means (performance control means 300) that controls performance based on information transmitted from the main control means; and a performance operation means (lever 15) that can be operated by a player, The main control means includes a lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a lottery based on the game medium entering a predetermined area (second starting opening 49) provided in the game area, The results of the lottery include a specific result for executing a special game advantageous to the player; the specific outcomes include a first outcome and a second outcome that is more advantageous to the player than the first outcome; When the specific result is obtained in the lottery and the effect operation means is operated within a specific period, a specific effect suggesting that the specific result has been obtained can be executed, As the specific effects, at least the specific effects of the first aspect and the specific effects of the second aspect are provided, The specific effect of the second aspect can suggest that the second result has been obtained.

[0008] By realizing a game feature in which a specific effect that suggests a specific result has been achieved can be executed when a player operates the effect operation means within a specific period, the player's sense of participation in the game can be heightened and the range of play can be expanded. In addition, multiple modes of the specific effect are provided, and the specific effect of the second mode can suggest that a more advantageous result (i.e., the second result) has been achieved. Therefore, when the specific effect of the second mode is executed based on the operation of the effect operation means, the player can understand that a more advantageous result (the second result) has been achieved, and can immerse himself in great joy. This can increase the player's interest in the game. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to increase the enjoyment of the game. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an amusement machine according to a first 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 and the dedicated unit. [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 explaining the changing and stopping display of the performance patterns and the hold performance. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the special effects. [Figure 11] This is a diagram explaining the timing of execution of the winning indication effect. [Figure 12] This is a diagram explaining the types of pre-hit suggestion effects. [Figure 13] This is a diagram showing a table used in the lottery held at the start of fluctuations. [Figure 14] This is a diagram showing a table used in the lottery that determines the timing of execution of the normal type of pre-win suggestion effect. [Figure 15] This is a diagram showing a table used in the lottery to determine whether or not a special type of pre-win suggestion effect can be executed. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing executed by the performance control means after the start of fluctuation. [Figure 17]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a first special effect that can be executed in a gaming machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the second special effect. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the third special effect. [Figure 20] This is a diagram explaining the fourth special effect. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] (First embodiment) A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below 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 that the top side of the gaming machine is "up" and the bottom side is "down," and "left and right" means that the left-hand side of a player playing on the gaming machine is "left" and the right-hand side is "right."

[0012] Unlike conventional pachinko gaming machines, the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment allows a player to play without touching the gaming balls. The gaming machine 1 is an enclosed circulation type in which a certain number of gaming balls (gaming media) circulate inside the gaming machine. The gaming machine 1 is also a gaming machine in which gaming value is used as electronic information, and the gaming value is consumed and paid out through play. In the gaming machine 1, paying out gaming value means electronically paying out (granting) the gaming value. Note that the invention according to this embodiment is not limited to the gaming machine 1 and can also be applied to conventional pachinko gaming machines, i.e., pachinko gaming machines in which a player can physically touch gaming balls and gaming balls are paid out to a tray when the gaming balls enter a predetermined winning slot.

[0013] 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.

[0014] 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.

[0015] 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).

[0016] The front frame 10 is provided with a performance button 26 (performance operation means) that can be pressed down, and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance performed in the gaming machine can be changed. In addition, a lever 15 (effect operation means) is provided on the front frame 10. The lever 15 is configured so that it can be pulled toward the player or pushed toward the player. When a player pulls (or pushes) the lever 15, the effect performed by the gaming machine can be changed. The lever 15 is movable (tiltable) at least between an initial position (OFF position) and an ON position located closer to the player (or further back) than the initial position.

[0017] On the underside of the front frame 10, to the right of the effect button 26, there are provided a cross key 27, a volume adjustment button 28, and a light intensity adjustment button 29. The cross key 27 (cross button) has at least an up button (upper pressure portion), a down button (lower pressure portion), a left button (left pressure portion), and a right button (right pressure portion) that are formed to be pressable. The volume adjustment button 28 and the light intensity adjustment button 29 each have a pressure portion that is long in the front-to-rear direction, and are formed so that the front side (front side) and the back side (rear side) of the pressure portion can be pressed.

[0018] The cross key 27, the volume control button 28, and the light intensity control button 29 are configured so that the pressing parts protrude (stick out) from the surface around the button. Because the pressing parts stick out, the player can easily touch and press them.

[0019] 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).

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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).

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] In the gaming area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, a second start opening 49 (second area, predetermined area) is provided below the passage gate 48. A second start opening switch 103 (see FIG. 5) is provided within 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] A special prize opening 50 (third area) is provided in the game area 4b to the right 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 disposed 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 executes the payout of prize balls (for example, 15 balls) based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104. The main control board 200 also counts the number of game balls that enter the special prize opening 50 based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104. The game balls that enter the special prize opening 50 are collected inside the gaming machine.

[0034] 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).

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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, multiple game statuses can be set, including a normal status, a time-saving status, and a special game status, as shown in Fig. 8. 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 opportunity to draw a special symbol occurs more frequently.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] The normal symbol lottery means 220 performs normal winning determination processing as a normal symbol lottery.

[0061] 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.

[0062] The normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is in the time-shortened state is set to have a higher probability of winning a "normal win" compared to the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is not in the time-shortened state. In other words, the normal symbol lottery held when the game state is in the time-shortened state has a higher probability of winning a "normal win" compared to the normal symbol lottery held when the game state is not in the time-shortened state.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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."

[0068] 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. Therefore, the time-saving state is a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

[0069] The special symbol lottery means 230 (special lottery means) acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 that detects gaming balls entering the first start port 46 one by one, 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 input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103 that detects gaming balls entering the second start port 49 one by one, 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 (special 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, and a correspondence relationship between each determination result and the jackpot determination random number value is set so that a "jackpot" is won with a predetermined probability (X / 65536) and a "loss" is won with a predetermined probability ((65536-X) / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 determines whether a "jackpot" or a "loss" has been won by referring to the jackpot lottery table A and determining whether the jackpot determination random number value read from the first special reserve memory area 1 is associated with a "jackpot" or a "loss." In this embodiment, the first special symbol lottery always results in either a "jackpot" or a "loss." Note that in this embodiment, the probability of winning a "jackpot" or a "loss" in the first special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state. In the first special pattern lottery, there is a chance that you will win (a big win) or you will not win (a miss).

[0085] The jackpot lottery table B is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the second special random number value, and the correspondence between each judgment result and the jackpot determination random number value is set so that a "jackpot" is won with a predetermined probability (X / 65536), a "small jackpot" is won with a predetermined probability (Y / 65536), and a "miss" is won with a predetermined probability ((65536-(X+Y) / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the jackpot lottery table B and selects the jackpot number read out from the second special reserved memory area 1. By determining whether the random number value is associated with a "big win," a "small win," or a "miss," it is determined whether a "big win," a "small win," or a "miss" has been won. In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "big win," a "small win," or a "miss" 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 (big win or small win) is won and cases where a win is not won (miss).

[0086] The symbol determination process is a process performed when a "big hit" or a "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 storage means 2914, and when a "big hit" is won, it determines which of multiple big hit symbols will be the big hit symbol (type of big hit), and when a "small hit" is won, it determines which of multiple small hit symbols will be the small hit symbol (type of small hit). Here, one symbol determination random number value is obtained from 200 symbol determination random numbers ranging from 0 to 199 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 storage means 2914 as the first special random number value or the 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), and a symbol lottery table C shown in Fig. 7(c). 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-saving 10000) is won with a probability of 0.005 / 100, and "jackpot 2" (7R time-saving 110) is won with a probability of 99.995 / 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 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 3" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 12.8 / 100, and "jackpot 4" (7R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 87.2 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table B 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.

[0091] The symbol lottery table C shown in Fig. 7(c) 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 (7R time reduction 110). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table C and determines which of the multiple types of small win symbols the read-out symbol determination random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of small win symbols has been won.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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 (jackpot games) are played according to the type (category) of the jackpot symbol. When the special game state begins when "jackpot 1" or "jackpot 3" is won in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends when 10 rounds of special games from round 1 to round 10 have been played. When the special game state begins based on whether "Jackpot 2" or "Jackpot 4" is won in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that seven rounds of special games from round 1 to round 7 have been played. Details will be explained later, but if a "Jackpot" is won in the special symbol lottery, a predetermined number of time-saving rounds corresponding to the jackpot symbol is set at the end of the special game state, and the time-saving state begins.

[0094] 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 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.

[0095] 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 when 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 6. As a result, 7 rounds will be played, with the small win game being the first round game. The special gaming state ends when 7 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.

[0096] In this embodiment, the term "special game" may be a general term for a big win game and a small win game. In addition, the term "special game" is not limited to referring to one round of game, but may also refer to the entire round of game (for example, 10 rounds of special game: special game state).

[0097] The special feature 56 enters an open state upon the start of a special game (including a small win game) in each round (based on the establishment of an opening condition). The special feature 56 enters a closed state upon the establishment of one of a plurality of closing conditions. One of the closing conditions is that the opening timer in the main memory 290 counts a predetermined time (1.8 to 29 seconds) (reaches the predetermined time). Another closing condition is that the value of a large prize counter (not shown) in the main memory 290, which is incremented by a value equivalent to one game ball (e.g., 1) when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, reaches a predetermined value (e.g., 10). When the closing condition is established (when the special game termination condition is established), the drive control of the special feature drive device is performed so that the special feature 56 enters a closed state. In addition, the small win game is configured to end when the opening time reaches 1.8 seconds, but in reality it is not opened continuously for 1.8 seconds, but is configured to measure a total opening time of 1.8 seconds by repeating a short opening of 0.15 seconds and a short closing of 0.8 seconds, for a total of 12 short openings.

[0098] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the upper limit of the number of game balls that can enter the big prize slot 50 in one round is 10, and the number of prize balls for one ball entering the slot is 15, so the player can win 150 prize balls in one round. Therefore, if "Big Win 1," "Big Win 3," or "Small Win 1" is won, the player can win 1,500 prize balls.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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. The special pattern lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process for the special pattern lottery, 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 variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a static manner by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

[0101] In this embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is predetermined in correspondence with each of the big win symbols and the small win symbols. In the jackpot determination process, the special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a static 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" has been won, 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 causes the first special pattern display unit 76 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.

[0102] 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. The special pattern lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process for the special pattern lottery, 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 variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a static manner by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 in a predetermined manner.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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).

[0109] (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.

[0110] 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 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.

[0111] (Time-saving mode) As described above, in the time-saving state (specific game state), the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is higher than in the normal state. Furthermore, if a "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal device 54 operates to increase the ease with which the game ball can enter 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. 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.

[0112] As shown in Figure 8, if a "big win" or "small win" is won in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol 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(b), if "big win 3" is won in the special symbol 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 4" is won in the special symbol 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, as shown in Figure 7(c), if "small win 1" is won in the special symbol 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.

[0113] 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").

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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. The sub-memory 302 is equipped with multiple types of RAM and ROM, and various types of data stored in the sub-memory 302 are stored in each RAM and ROM.

[0117] The performance control means 300 controls the performance devices 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 (ROM) of the sub-memory 302, and controls the performance devices to perform effects to liven up or assist the game (controls various performance devices), such as turning on or blinking the front frame lamp 12 and 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 (gimmick objects).

[0118] The liquid crystal display 32 performs a performance by displaying a performance image on its display surface. The performance image displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is a composite image formed by overlapping multiple layers in which drawing materials (material images) are arranged.

[0119] The effect data storage means 303 stores a large number of effect image data for displaying images on the liquid crystal display 32. The effect control means 300 draws an image in the frame buffer of the sub-memory 302 for each frame (1 / 30 seconds) based on this effect 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. The effect screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is made up of, for example, 30 frames (hereinafter referred to as frames) per second (a so-called frame rate of 30 fps). Therefore, for example, in the case of an effect pattern having a length of one minute, the effect screen is made up of a total of 1,800 frames, i.e., 60 seconds x 30 frames. Note that one second may also be made up of, for example, 60 frames. Display objects (images) displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 include, for example, people, animals, vehicles, buildings, natural objects (e.g., rocks, trees, etc.), letters, backgrounds, patterns, designs, etc.

[0120] (Performance design) In the normal state and the time-saving state, the effect control means 300 executes an effect in which effect patterns (demo patterns, predetermined patterns) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 in accordance with (corresponding to) the varying and stationary display of the special patterns in the first special pattern display section 76 or the second special pattern display section 81, and is capable of announcing the results of the special pattern lottery. In the normal state, the effect control means 300 displays effect patterns corresponding to the varying and stationary display of the first special pattern on the liquid crystal display 32, and in the time-saving state, it displays effect patterns corresponding to the varying and stationary display of the second special pattern on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0121] Here, we will explain the display of the effect symbols in the normal state. Figure 9(a) shows the state before the first special symbol starts to change display in the normal state. 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 types of effect symbol strings representing the numbers "1" to "9." Note that each effect symbol representing the numbers "1" to "9" may be configured to include decorative elements such as characters in addition to the numbers.

[0122] 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).

[0123] 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 normal state (as shown in Figures 9(a), 9(b), and 9(c)).

[0124] In other words, each time the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is performed, the performance control means 300 causes the left performance pattern 350a, the middle performance pattern 350b and the right performance pattern 350c (in other words, an arrangement of multiple patterns) to be displayed in a variable manner in conjunction with the start of the variable display of the first special pattern in the first special pattern display unit 76, or each time the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is performed, and the start of the variable display of the second special pattern in the second special pattern display unit 81, and then causes the liquid crystal display 32 to execute a performance in which the left performance pattern 350a, the middle performance pattern 350b and the right performance pattern 350c are displayed in a stopped manner in accordance with whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process in the special pattern lottery, and if a jackpot has been won, in a manner in accordance with the winning pattern determined in the pattern determination process.

[0125] (Holding performance) 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.

[0126] Figure 9(a) shows a reserved effect executed in a normal state, in which a first special random number value is stored in the first special reserved memory area 1 to the first special reserved memory area 3, and a first reserved image 420 (first reserved ball display) (three first reserved images 420) is displayed in the first reserved display area 411 to the third reserved display area 413. Figure 9(d) shows a reserved effect executed in a time-saving state, in which a second special random number value is stored in the second special reserved memory area 1 to the second special reserved memory area 2, and a second reserved image 422 (second reserved ball display) (two second reserved images 422) is displayed in the first reserved display area 411 to the second reserved display area 412.

[0127] 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.

[0128] In this embodiment, winning a "jackpot" (hit) in the first special symbol lottery is sometimes referred to as a case where a specific result is obtained, and winning a "miss" is sometimes referred to as a case where a specific result is not obtained. Also, winning a hit ("jackpot" or "minor hit") in the second special symbol lottery is sometimes referred to as a case where a specific result is obtained, and winning a "miss" is sometimes referred to as a case where a specific result is not obtained.

[0129] As described above, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the detection signal input 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. The special symbol lottery means 230 reads out the first special random number value from the special random number storage means 2914, and performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process), etc. as a special symbol lottery. Furthermore, as described above, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103 that detects gaming balls entering the second start port 49 one by one, and stores the value as a second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. The special symbol lottery means 230 reads out the second special random number value from the special random number storage means 2914, and performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process), etc. as a special symbol lottery.

[0130] (Main fluctuation pattern determination process) The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a main variation pattern determination process as a special symbol lottery. In this embodiment, multiple types of main variation patterns with different variation times are prepared, and the special symbol lottery means 230 executes a main variation pattern lottery (variation time lottery) to determine which main variation pattern will be selected from the multiple types of main variation patterns. The variation time includes a relatively short variation time and a relatively long variation time. Furthermore, if a player wins the special symbol lottery, the probability that a relatively long variation time will be determined is higher than if the player does not win the special symbol lottery. However, even if a player does not win the special symbol lottery, a relatively long variation time may be determined.

[0131] The special display control means 240 displays the first special pattern (or the second special pattern) in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 (or the second special pattern display unit 81) until the variable time determined in the main variable pattern determination process has elapsed, and then displays the first special pattern (or the second special pattern) in a static manner by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 (or the second special pattern display unit 81) in a predetermined manner (a manner according to the result of the special pattern lottery).

[0132] (Preliminary Judgment) The special symbol lottery means 230 (preliminary judgment means) performs preliminary jackpot determination processing, preliminary symbol determination processing, preliminary variation pattern determination processing, etc. as preliminary judgment processing when storing the first special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 (before performing the special symbol lottery). When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value (lottery information) 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, it performs preliminary jackpot determination processing, preliminary symbol determination processing, preliminary variation pattern determination processing, etc. as preliminary judgment processing for the first special random number value according to the game state and the number of reserved numbers at that time before storing it as the first special random number value. Furthermore, the special symbol lottery means 230 (preliminary judgment means) performs preliminary jackpot determination processing, preliminary symbol determination processing, preliminary variation pattern determination processing, etc. as preliminary judgment processing when storing the second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 (before performing the special symbol lottery). When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value (lottery information) 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, it performs preliminary jackpot determination processing, preliminary symbol determination processing, preliminary variation pattern determination processing, etc. as preliminary judgment processing for the second special random number value according to the game state and the number of reserved numbers at that time before storing it as the second special random number value.

[0133] In addition, the preliminary judgment process may be configured to execute a dedicated process for preliminary judgment (preliminary jackpot determination process, preliminary pattern determination process) rather than the same process as the jackpot determination process or pattern determination process executed when a variation based on the random number value for special pattern lottery that is actually stored as pending (for example, a lottery process performed based on the same table).

[0134] The special symbol lottery means 230 transmits the preliminary determination result, including the results of the preliminary jackpot determination process, the preliminary symbol determination process, the preliminary variation pattern determination process, and the like, as preliminary determination process to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300), as preliminary determination result information, and stores the preliminary determination result in association with the first special random number value or the second special random number value that was the subject of the preliminary determination process. The performance control means 300 can execute a performance, etc., that suggests the result of the special symbol lottery, based on the received preliminary determination result information.

[0135] As shown in FIG. 8, when the special game state ends, the game transitions to a time-saving state. In this embodiment, if a specific operation is input during a predetermined period in the special game state (e.g., between the second round and the final round), the effect to be executed in the time-saving state after the special game state ends is set to a special effect. In other words, if the effect control means 300 receives a specific operation during a predetermined period in the special game state, it can execute a special effect in the time-saving state. Here, the specific operation is, for example, an operation of pressing the lever 15 for a predetermined time (e.g., one second) or more. Furthermore, during the predetermined period, an effect prompting the input of the predetermined operation is not executed, but the operation of the lever 15 (acceptance of the operation) is enabled. The predetermined operation can be referred to as a so-called back button operation.

[0136] (Special performance) FIG. 10 shows the state in which the time-saving mode has been entered and a special effect has been executed on the LCD display 32. In the special effect, a predetermined character F facing the player is displayed in the center of the screen. In addition, main effect symbols (left effect symbol 350, middle effect symbol 352, and right effect symbol 354) are displayed in the area indicated by symbol L (lower center of the screen). Note that the main effect symbols may be configured not to be displayed while the special effect is being executed. In addition, a right-hit display R is displayed in the upper right corner of the screen to encourage the player to hit right. In addition, mini symbols and a hold number display are displayed in the area indicated by symbol M (lower right corner of the screen).

[0137] Like the main effect symbols, the mini symbols are effect symbols that correspond to the variation (stop) of the special symbols, but are smaller in display size than the main effect symbols. The mini symbols are composed of a mini left effect symbol, a mini middle effect symbol, and a mini right effect symbol. The mini symbols are composed only of numbers and do not include decorative parts. Even if the visibility of the main effect symbol is reduced (including when it is not visible), the mini symbols are displayed, allowing the player to know whether the special symbol is being varied or not.

[0138] The reserved number display indicates the first special reserved number and the second special reserved number, with two numbers displayed side by side in a predetermined direction (left to right or up to down). One number corresponds to the number of first special random number values ​​(any of 0 to 4) reserved in the first special reserved memory area 1 to the first special reserved memory area 4 of the special random number memory means 2914, and the other number corresponds to the number of second special random number values ​​(any of 0 to 4) reserved in the second special reserved memory area 1 to the second special reserved memory area 4 of the special random number memory means 2914. The reserved number display is smaller in display size than the first reserved image 420 and the second reserved image 422 shown in FIG. 9. Even when the visibility of the reserved effect (reserved balls) is reduced (including when they are not visible), the reserved number display allows the player to grasp the reserved number.

[0139] The special symbol lottery means 230 of the main control board 200 transmits information indicating the results of the special symbol lottery (jackpot determination process, symbol determination process, and variation pattern determination process) to the sub-control board 202. The performance control means 300 of the sub-control board 202 controls the performance based on the information. Below, we will explain the case where the sub-control board 202 receives specific information from the main control board 200, and the specific information includes information indicating that the result of the special symbol lottery is a win (specific result) and information indicating that the fluctuation time is relatively long (for example, between 30 and 50 seconds). In other words, we will explain the case where the sub-control board 202 receives information indicating a winning fluctuation (one of multiple winning fluctuations that is a long fluctuation). Hereinafter, "start of fluctuation" refers to the start of the winning fluctuation.

[0140] (Suggestion of winning) When the effect control means 300 receives the specific information while a special effect is being executed in the time-saving mode, it executes an effect (a win suggestion effect, a win announcement, a celebration effect) suggesting that a win has been obtained when a predetermined time X (e.g., 25 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the special symbol variation, as shown in Fig. 11. When the predetermined time X has elapsed, the timing at which the win variation (variation time) ends (elapses) is also several seconds (e.g., about 5 to 10 seconds) earlier. When the win suggestion effect is executed, a predetermined display (e.g., a message display) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, multiple lamps such as the front frame lamp 12 shown in Fig. 1 and the board surface LED (which may be the lighting device 38) of the game board 6 shown in Fig. 3 light up in rainbow colors, and a predetermined sound (which may be a sound corresponding to the message display) is output from the speaker 14.

[0141] (Pre-hit hint effect) Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the presentation control means 300 receives the specific information, it can execute a presentation (pre-hit suggestion presentation, one-shot announcement presentation) that suggests (in advance) that a win (specific result) has been obtained before the predetermined time X has elapsed (i.e., without waiting for 25 seconds to elapse). The pre-hit suggestion presentation (specific presentation) differs in presentation format from the above-mentioned hit suggestion presentation. When the pre-hit suggestion presentation is executed, the player can understand that a win has been obtained at a relatively early timing (stage) after the start of fluctuation. In other words, the player can immerse himself in the joy more quickly.

[0142] As shown in Figure 2, a specific lamp 39 (specific lighting means) is provided at the lower right of the game board 6 (board surface). The specific lamp 39 is configured to be able to emit (light up) a specific color. The "specific color" is not limited to a single color, but may also be a combination of multiple colors.

[0143] In this embodiment, when the pre-win suggestion effect is executed, at least the specific lamp 39 is illuminated (lit). As shown in Fig. 12, in this embodiment, a plurality of types of pre-win suggestion effects with different modes are provided, including normal mode 1, normal mode 2, special mode 1, and special mode 2.

[0144] The pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 1 is an effect in which the specific lamp 39 lights up for a short time (for example, less than one second) at a predetermined timing (described later). In the pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 1, no sound is output in conjunction with the lighting of the specific lamp 39. Since the player's gaze is focused on the liquid crystal display 32 during play, there is a possibility that the player will not notice the lighting of the specific lamp 39, but the pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 1 is an effect that can give the player the impression that the specific lamp 39 has flashed on.

[0145] The pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 2 is an effect in which the specific lamp 39 lights up at a predetermined timing (described later) and the lighting of the specific lamp 39 continues until the predetermined time X has elapsed. In the pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 2, no sound is output when the specific lamp 39 lights up. Since the player's gaze is focused on the LCD display 32 during play, there is a possibility that the player will not notice the lighting of the specific lamp 39. The pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 2 is an effect that can give the player the impression that the specific lamp 39 had been lighting up without them realizing it.

[0146] The pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1 is an effect in which, based on the operation (pulling operation) of lever 15, specific lamp 39 flashes (lights up in an emphatic manner) at high speed for a certain period of time (for example, 2 seconds), and a sound effect (for example, "boom") is output from speaker 14 along with the lighting of specific lamp 39. The pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1 is an effect that is easy for the player to notice and has a relatively large impact on the player.

[0147] The pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 is an effect in which, based on the operation (pulling operation) of lever 15, specific lamp 39 flashes (lights up in an emphatic manner) at high speed for a certain period of time (for example, 2 seconds), and as specific lamp 39 lights up, the effect operation means (effect button 26 and lever 15) vibrates and a special sound (for example, a voice sound saying "Congratulations") is output from speaker 14. The pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 is easier for the player to notice than the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1, and is an effect that has a relatively greater impact on the player.

[0148] The pre-win suggestion effect of the special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) can be said to be flashier (makes a bigger impression on the player) than the pre-win suggestion effect of the normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2). Also, the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 can be said to be flashier (makes a bigger impression on the player) than the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1.

[0149] The presentation control means 300 refers to the table shown in Fig. 13 at the start of fluctuation, and performs a lottery to determine whether to not execute a pre-win suggestion presentation, to execute a pre-win suggestion presentation of normal mode 1, or to execute a pre-win suggestion presentation of normal mode 2. In this embodiment, the probability that the lottery will determine not to execute a pre-win suggestion presentation is 20%, the probability that the lottery will determine to execute a pre-win suggestion presentation of normal mode 1 is 40%, and the probability that the lottery will determine to execute a pre-win suggestion presentation of normal mode 2 is 40%. If the lottery determines not to execute a pre-win suggestion presentation, the presentation control means 300 will not execute a pre-win suggestion presentation until a predetermined time X has elapsed, and will execute the above-mentioned win suggestion presentation when the predetermined time X has elapsed.

[0150] When it is decided to execute the pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 1 or normal mode 2, the effect control means 300 refers to the table shown in Fig. 14 and determines by lottery at which of a plurality of timings (occurrence timings) the effect will be executed. Specifically, the timing is one of the following: at the start of fluctuation (immediately after the start of fluctuation), 5 seconds after the start of fluctuation, 10 seconds after the start of fluctuation, 15 seconds after the start of fluctuation, and 20 seconds after the start of fluctuation. In this lottery, there is a 20% chance that the start of the fluctuation will be determined, a 20% chance that 5 seconds after the start of the fluctuation will be determined, a 20% chance that 10 seconds after the start of the fluctuation will be determined, a 20% chance that 15 seconds after the start of the fluctuation will be determined, and a 20% chance that 20 seconds after the start of the fluctuation will be determined.

[0151] If it is determined that a pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 1 or normal mode 2 is to be executed, the effect control means 300 further refers to the table shown in FIG. 15 and performs a lottery to determine whether or not a pre-win suggestion effect of a special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) will be executed when the lever 15 is operated (based on the operation of the lever 15) during the valid operation period of the lever 15. In this embodiment, the probability that the lottery will determine that a pre-win suggestion effect of a special mode will not be executed based on the lever operation is 10%, and the probability that the lottery will determine that a pre-win suggestion effect of a special mode will be executed (can be executed) based on the lever operation is 90%. If it is determined in the lottery that a pre-win suggestion effect of a special mode will be executed based on the lever operation, the effect control means 300 enables the operation of the lever 15. Furthermore, if it is determined in the lottery that a special mode pre-win suggestion effect will not be executed based on the lever operation, the effect control means 300 executes a normal mode 1 or normal mode 2 pre-win suggestion effect (the effect determined using the table in Figure 13) at a predetermined timing (the timing determined using the table in Figure 14) (without enabling the operation of the lever 15).

[0152] If the lottery determines that a pre-win suggestion effect of a special mode will be executed based on the lever operation, the effect control means 300 determines which of the pre-win suggestion effects of special mode 1 or special mode 2 will be executed each time the lever 15 is operated (details will be described later), and executes the determined effect. If the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1 or special mode 2 is executed based on the operation of the lever 15 before the pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 1 or normal mode 2 is executed, the effect control means 300 performs control so that the pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 1 or normal mode 2 will not be executed even when a predetermined timing (the timing determined using FIG. 14) arrives.

[0153] If it is decided in the lottery that a special type of pre-win suggestion display will be executed based on the lever operation, the display control means 300 can execute the special type of pre-win suggestion display based on the second or subsequent lever operations, not limited to the first lever operation.

[0154] Here, the processing (control) executed by the presentation control means 300 after the start of fluctuation will be explained using the flowchart shown in Fig. 16. It is assumed that at the start of the flowchart shown in Fig. 16, as a result of the lottery performed using the table according to Fig. 13, it has been decided to execute a pre-win suggestion presentation of a normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2), and as a result of the lottery performed using the table according to Fig. 15, it has been decided to execute a pre-win suggestion presentation of a special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2).

[0155] (Step S1) The performance control means 300 performs a lottery to determine the timing at which the advance winning suggestion performance of the normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2) is to be executed.

[0156] (Step S2) The performance control means 300 validates the operation (acceptance of operation) of the lever 15. In this embodiment, the operation of the lever 15 is an operation of pulling the lever 15, but it may also be an operation of pushing (depressing) the lever 15. Also, in this embodiment, the target of operation is the lever 15 (performance operation means), but the performance operation means may be a button other than the lever 15, etc. In other words, the performance operation means may be the performance button 26, the cross key 27, etc.

[0157] (Step S3) The effect control means 300 determines whether or not the lever 15 is currently in an effective operation period. The effective operation period (specific period) of the lever 15 is from the start of fluctuation until a predetermined time X has elapsed. However, if a pre-win suggestion effect of normal mode 1 or normal mode 2 is executed even before the predetermined time X has elapsed, the effective operation period of the lever 15 ends based on that execution. In step S3, if it is determined that the lever 15 is currently in an effective operation period (step S3: YES), the process proceeds to step S4. On the other hand, if it is determined that the lever 15 is not currently in an effective operation period (step S3: NO), the process ends.

[0158] (Step S4) The performance control means 300 determines whether or not it has accepted the operation of the lever 15. If it is determined that the operation of the lever 15 has been accepted (step S4: YES), it proceeds to the processing of step S5. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation of the lever 15 has not been accepted (step S4: NO), it proceeds to the processing of step S6.

[0159] (Step S5) The performance control means 300 executes the pre-win suggestion performance of special mode 1 or special mode 2. The method of determining whether to execute special mode 1 or special mode 2 will be described later. After the processing of step S5, the process proceeds to the processing of step S3.

[0160] (Step S6) The performance control means 300 determines whether the timing (period) determined in step S1 has been reached. If it is determined that the timing has been reached (step S6: YES), the process proceeds to step S7. On the other hand, if it is determined that the timing has not been reached (step S6: NO), the process proceeds to step S3.

[0161] (Step S7) The presentation control means 300 executes a pre-win suggestion presentation of normal mode 1 or normal mode 2. After processing step S7, the process proceeds to step S3. In this embodiment, when the pre-win suggestion presentation of the normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2) is executed, the effective operation period of the lever 15 ends. Therefore, the process of step S3 is judged as "NO."

[0162] In this embodiment, even if a pre-win suggestion effect for a special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) is executed, the valid operation period of the lever 15 does not end. Even if the processing of step S5, i.e., the execution of a pre-win suggestion effect for a special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2), is performed once, the valid operation period of the lever 15 continues, and if the lever 15 is operated within the valid operation period of the lever 15, the pre-win suggestion effect for the special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) is executed again based on that operation. Therefore, the player can experience the pre-win suggestion effect for the special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) not just once but multiple times. The gaming machine of this embodiment has the gameplay feature that allows the player to generate (execute) the effect by operating the lever 15, which can increase the player's sense of participation in the game. This can increase the player's interest in the game.

[0163] When a win (win fluctuation) is obtained during the execution of a special effect in the time-saving state, a win suggestion effect is executed when a predetermined time X (for example, 25 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the fluctuation, but a pre-win suggestion effect in the normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2) may be executed before that. When this effect is executed, the player can know earlier that a win has been obtained. Furthermore, if the player operates the lever 15 before the pre-win suggestion effect of the normal mode (normal mode 1 or normal mode 2) is executed, the pre-win suggestion effect of the special mode (special mode 1 or special mode 2) may be executed based on that operation. When that effect is executed, the player can know the result of the game (that a win has been obtained) earlier.

[0164] (Special pre-hit suggestion effect) If a player wins a "jackpot" in the second special symbol lottery, as shown in Figure 7(b), the probability of winning "jackpot 3" (10R time reduction 10,000) is 12.8 / 100, and the probability of winning "jackpot 4" (7R time reduction 110) is 87.2 / 100. If a player wins a "small jackpot" in the second special symbol lottery, as shown in Figure 7(c), the probability of winning "small jackpot 1" (10R time reduction 10,000) is 50 / 100, and the probability of winning "small jackpot 2" (7R time reduction 110) is 50 / 100. A win that results in a 10R special play ("jackpot 3" or "small jackpot 1") is called a "win of 1,500 or more balls" (the second result) because the player can win 1,500 prize balls. In addition, the winning result that results in a 7R special game ("Big Win 4" or "Small Win 2") is called a "win of less than 1500 balls" (first result). The second result has more winning balls than the first result, and can be said to be a result that is advantageous to the player.

[0165] (First operation) When the lever 15 is operated for the first time within the valid operation period of the lever 15, the effect control means 300 executes the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1, regardless of the type of win. In other words, based on the first operation of the lever 15, only the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1 (first mode) is executed, and the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 (second mode) is not executed. However, the effect control means 300 may be configured so that when the type of win is "a win of 1500 or more shots," it is possible to slightly execute the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 based on the first operation of the lever 15. "Slightly executable" means that it is possible to execute it with an extremely low probability (for example, about 1%).

[0166] (Operation from the second time onwards) When the lever 15 is operated for the second or subsequent time within the valid operation period of the lever 15, the effect control means 300 performs the following control. The effect control means 300 determines whether the type of win is a "win of 1500 or more shots," and if it is a "win of less than 1500 shots," it executes the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1. On the other hand, if the type of win is a "win of 1500 or more shots," the effect control means 300 conducts a lottery to determine whether to use the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1 (first mode) or the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 (second mode). In this lottery, there is a 75% probability that the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 1 will be determined, and a 25% probability that the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 will be determined. In other words, if there is a "win of 1500 or more shots," there is a 25% probability that the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 will be determined. The pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 is an effect that can suggest a "win of 1500 or more shots." Therefore, when the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 is executed, the player will know that he or she has won a more advantageous win, and will be able to bask in great joy.

[0167] In this embodiment, the probability that the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 will be determined (occur) is higher for the second or subsequent operation than for the first operation (note that the probability for the first operation may be 0%). For this reason, it can be said that it is easier to determine whether or not "1500 or more wins" have been obtained by operating the lever 15 for the second or subsequent times than by operating it for the first time. The player can operate the lever for the second or subsequent times, hoping that the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 will be executed. This motivates the player to operate the lever 15 multiple times, thereby increasing the player's interest in the game (enjoying the player). Furthermore, even if the pre-win suggestion effect of special mode 2 is not executed based on the second or subsequent operation, by configuring it so that it is possible to win "1500 or more wins," it is possible to create a sense of expectation in the player and increase the enjoyment of the game.

[0168] As in this embodiment, the configuration in which the pre-win suggestion display executed based on lever operation differs depending on the type of win, i.e., whether or not the win is a predetermined number of winning balls (1,500 balls) or more, can be applied to gaming machines (models) in which the type of win is similarly set (configured). In addition, the pre-win suggestion effect (Figure 12) in this embodiment is executed via an effect device (lamp, speaker, effect operation means (button, etc.)) different from the LCD display 32, and can be installed in a wide range of gaming machines.

[0169] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine having a gaming area (gaming area 4) in which gaming media move, and launching gaming media into the gaming area in response to a player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) that controls the progress of the game; A performance control means (performance control means 300) that controls performance based on information transmitted from the main control means; and a performance operation means (lever 15) that can be operated by a player, The main control means includes a lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a lottery based on the game medium entering a predetermined area (second starting opening 49) provided in the game area, The results of the lottery include a specific result for executing a special game advantageous to the player; the specific outcomes include a first outcome and a second outcome that is more advantageous to the player than the first outcome; When the specific result is obtained in the lottery and the effect operation means is operated within a specific period, a specific effect suggesting that the specific result has been obtained can be executed, As the specific effects, at least the specific effects of the first aspect and the specific effects of the second aspect are provided, The specific effect of the second aspect can suggest that the second result has been obtained.

[0170] By realizing a game feature in which a specific effect that suggests a specific result has been achieved can be executed when a player operates the effect operation means within a specific period, the player's sense of participation in the game can be heightened and the range of play can be expanded. In addition, multiple modes of the specific effect are provided, and the specific effect of the second mode can suggest that a more advantageous result (i.e., the second result) has been achieved. Therefore, when the specific effect of the second mode is executed based on the operation of the effect operation means, the player can understand that a more advantageous result (the second result) has been achieved, and can immerse himself in great joy. This can increase the player's interest in the game.

[0171] In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the performance control means is capable of executing the specific performance based on each operation of the performance operation means when the performance operation means is operated a plurality of times within the specific period; The probability that the specific effect of the second mode will be executed based on the second or subsequent operation is higher than the probability that the specific effect of the second mode will be executed based on the first operation.

[0172] The probability that the specific effect of the second mode will be executed is higher when the effect operation means is operated from the second time onwards than when the effect operation means is operated the first time. Therefore, it is easier to determine whether the second result has been obtained from the second or subsequent operations than from the first operation. The player can perform the second or subsequent operations in the hope that the specific effect of the second mode will be executed. This motivates the player to operate the effect operation means multiple times, thereby increasing the player's interest in the game (enjoying the player).

[0173] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The gaming machine of this embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment, so the description of the similar configuration will be omitted or simplified.

[0174] The special symbol lottery means 230 transmits the preliminary determination result, including the results of each of the preliminary determination processes, such as the jackpot determination process and the symbol determination process, to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) as preliminary determination result information. The performance control means 300 can execute a pre-reading effect based on the received preliminary determination result information during the period from when the first or second special random number value is acquired until the variable display of the first or second special symbol for the first or second special random number value acquired immediately before the first or second special random number value is completed (while the variable display of the special symbol based on the previous reservation is being executed). The pre-reading effect can be said to be an effect that suggests the result of the special symbol lottery (the expected probability of winning) in advance. The performance control means 300 determines whether or not to execute the pre-reading effect by lottery or the like.

[0175] For example, the pre-reading effect is a reserve change effect that changes the display mode (color, etc.) of the reserve image (first reserve image 420 or second reserve image 422 shown in FIG. 9) based on the result of the advance judgment process. The color of the reserve image represents the expectation of a win, and for example, the expectation increases in the order of white, blue, green, red, and gold.

[0176] The pre-reading effect is, for example, a feeling of incongruity effect that executes an effect that gives the player a feeling of incongruity based on the result of the pre-determination process (that a win has been obtained). In this embodiment, when the feeling of incongruity effect as the pre-reading effect is executed, the game has a feature that a win is obtained (a win is confirmed).

[0177] An example of the strange feeling effect is an effect in which a predetermined character (mini character) that is not related to the currently executing effect (display) is displayed in the corner of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. Another example of the strange feeling effect is an effect in which a predetermined character that is not related to the currently executing effect (display) moves (passes by) at high speed from one side to the other in the left-right direction of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. Note that the strange feeling effect is not limited to an effect in which another effect (display, etc.) is added to the currently executing effect, but may also be an effect in which part of the currently executing effect is not executed. Not executing part of the effect may mean, for example, not outputting sound or not lighting a lamp.

[0178] (Special performance) The effect control means 300 receives pre-determination result information indicating that the result of the special pattern lottery is a hit (a specific result has been obtained) in the time-saving state, and if it executes an odd feeling effect based on that, it (always) executes a special effect in the variation (display of the variation of the second special pattern for the second special random number value associated with the hit). In addition, the presentation control means 300 receives pre-determination result information indicating that the result of the special pattern lottery is a hit (a specific result has been obtained) in the time-saving state, and does not execute the strange feeling presentation based on that, but may execute the special presentation in the relevant variation (display of the variation of the second special pattern for the second special random number value associated with the hit).

[0179] Since the special effects are effects that are executed when a win is obtained (during a win fluctuation), the occurrence (execution) of the special effects notifies the player that a win has been obtained (a win has been confirmed). Also, the special effects have a gameplay (game-like quality) that entertains the player who has obtained a win (a win has been confirmed), and can be said to be a reward effect given to the player. The special effects are a reward effect when a win is obtained, and do not put pressure on the player to succeed (failure is OK), so the player can enjoy them at ease.

[0180] In this embodiment, four different types of special effects (first to fourth special effects) are provided, and the effect control means 300 determines which special effect to execute by lottery or the like. The effect control means 300 enables operation of the effect button 26 (effect operation means) (sets the operation valid period) while the special effect is being executed (at the same time as the special effect starts).

[0181] (1st special performance) FIG. 17(a) shows the liquid crystal display 32 immediately after the start of the first special effect. A specific background is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. Also, in the upper left corner of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32, a display (remaining time-saving number display) is displayed indicating the number of times the second special symbol will be displayed in a variable manner until the time-saving state ends. Also, in the lower left corner of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32, a first display L is displayed. The first display L is a display that continues to be displayed in the same position (fixed display). The first display L is, for example, gray.

[0182] FIG. 17(b) shows the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed from the state shown in FIG. 17(a). The second display M is a display (moving display) that moves over time, appearing from one side (right side) of the screen in the horizontal direction, gradually moving toward the other side (left side) in the horizontal direction, and becoming invisible when it reaches the other side (left side). The second display M is, for example, yellow. The first display L and the second display M have the same shape and size and are configured to overlap at a predetermined timing. The second display M is set to have a higher display priority than the first display L (arranged in a higher layer), and the second display M is displayed (visible) in front of the first display L. The first display L and the second display M may be images related to characters, etc.

[0183] The first special effect has a gameplay feature that encourages the player to press the effect button 26 at the timing when the second display M overlaps the first display L. When the effect button 26 is pressed at the timing when the second display M overlaps the first display L, the effect control means 300 determines that the pressing of the effect button 26 has been successful, and displays a bonus image as shown in FIG. 17(c). The bonus image is an image displayed as a bonus (reward) for successfully pressing the effect button 26, and is not an image that indicates the likelihood of winning (a specific result). Furthermore, the bonus image is a dedicated (special, rare) image that is displayed only during the special effect, an image that can excite the player, and in this embodiment, includes the character K. As will be described later, in this embodiment, the bonus image is displayed for an extremely short period of time even if the player fails to press the effect button 26.

[0184] Here, the timing when the second display M overlaps the first display L is defined as the first specific timing. In this embodiment, not only when the effect button 26 is pressed at the first specific timing, but also when the effect button 26 is pressed within a period (first period) from about two frames before the first specific timing to about two frames after the first specific timing, it is determined that the effect button 26 has been pressed successfully, and a bonus image is displayed. Note that one frame is 1 / 30 seconds. In other words, even if the timing of pressing the effect button 26 is slightly off (before or after) the first specific timing, it is determined that the press has been successful. The first period is a part (period) of the effective operation period of the effect button 26. Pressing the effect button 26 within the first period is referred to as a successful press of the effect button 26.

[0185] When the effect control means 300 displays a bonus image based on the (successful) pressing of the effect button 26, it continues to display the bonus image until the celebration effect described below is executed (until the special effect ends). When the effect button 26 is successfully pressed, the effect control means 300 displays the bonus image for a first time period (the display time upon success, from the start of the bonus image display until the celebration effect is executed (starts)). Furthermore, based on the successful pressing of the effect button 26, the effect control means 300 outputs a dedicated (special) sound (message) that is output only during the special effect.

[0186] If the effect button 26 is successfully pressed, the effect control means 300 stops the movement of the second display M and maintains the state in which the second display M and the first display L overlap (the state in which the first display L is covered by the second display M) until a congratulatory effect, which will be described later, is executed. However, the effect control means 300 may display a bonus image based on the successful pressing of the effect button 26, and may also make the second display M and the first display L invisible (non-display).

[0187] If the effect button 26 is not pressed within the first period and the first period has elapsed (ended), the effect control means 300 determines that the pressing of the effect button 26 has failed, and displays the bonus image for a second time, which is shorter than the first time, based on the passage of the first period. The second time (the display time at the time of failure) is the same length as the first period and is significantly shorter than the first time. If the effect button 26 is not pressed properly, the player will only be able to see the bonus image for a short time (a glimpse), and it is likely that the content of the bonus image will be difficult to grasp. By making the bonus image visible for a short time even if the effect button 26 is not pressed properly, the player will be encouraged to press the effect button 26 successfully the next time a special effect is executed and to view the bonus image for a long time (first time). Note that failure to press the effect button 26 also includes the case where the player does not press the effect button 26 even once during the execution of a special effect.

[0188] After displaying the bonus image for the second time, the performance control means 300 displays the specific background again as shown in Fig. 17(d). Furthermore, if the performance button 26 is not pressed properly, the performance control means 300 does not stop the movement of the second display M. The second display M passes the position (foreground) of the first display L and moves to the left side (left edge) of the screen.

[0189] In this embodiment, there are two patterns for the first special effect, and which pattern of the first special effect will be executed is determined by lottery or the like. The two patterns are a constant speed pattern and a deceleration (low speed) pattern, and the two patterns differ in the difficulty of successfully pressing the effect button 26. When the constant speed pattern is determined, the second display M moves at a constant speed (first speed). When the deceleration pattern is determined, the movement speed of the second display M changes in the following order: first speed, second speed slower than the first speed, and then back to the first speed. In other words, the second display M starts moving at the first speed, and when it reaches a predetermined position to the right of the first display L (just before overlapping with the first display L), it moves at the second speed, and when it passes the position of the first display L, it moves again at the first speed. For this reason, when a deceleration pattern is determined, it is easier (easier) to press the effect button 26 at the timing when the second display M overlaps with the first display L, and it is easier to successfully press the effect button 26 (it is easier to execute the display of the bonus image for the first hour) than when a constant speed pattern is determined.

[0190] The effect control means 300 executes an effect (celebration effect) to notify (celebrate) that a win has been obtained, for example, based on the lapse of a predetermined time from the start of fluctuation (the start of fluctuation of the winning fluctuation). When the celebration effect is executed, as shown in Fig. 17(e), a rainbow-colored display (for example, a message display) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and multiple lamps such as the front frame lamp 12 shown in Fig. 1 and the board surface LED (which may be the lighting device 38) of the game board 6 shown in Fig. 3 emit light in rainbow colors.

[0191] Although not shown in the figures, when the effect control means 300 executes a strange feeling effect, it executes, for example, an effect that aims the gaming ball to pass through a specific area at a predetermined trigger after the congratulatory effect ends, and based on the detection of the gaming ball's passage through the specific area (detection of the gaming ball that entered the first large prize slot 50 passing through the specific area during the execution of a small win game), it notifies the player of the type of strange feeling effect that was executed. For example, in the case of a strange feeling effect in which a miniature character is displayed in the corner of the screen of the LCD display 32, the text "Occurred strange feeling: The miniature character was cheering" is displayed. Also, for example, in the case of an effect in which a specific character moves (passes) across the screen of the LCD display 32 at high speed, the text "Occurred strange feeling: Something passed by" is displayed. By executing such a notification, the player can know whether the strange feeling he or she felt was correct (can check the answer). This can increase the interest in the game.

[0192] (2nd special performance) FIG. 18(a) shows the liquid crystal display 32 immediately after the start of the second special effect. A specific background is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, a display (remaining time-saving count display) showing the remaining number of times the second special symbol will change display until the time-saving state ends is displayed in the upper left corner of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, a circular roulette display D and an arrow E with its tip pointing toward the roulette display D are displayed in the lower center of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. The roulette display D has a first area D1 (failure area) and a second area D2 (success area) that is smaller in range (area) than the first area D1. The second area D2 is a narrow linear (bar-shaped) area, for example, red. In addition, the first area D1 is, for example, blue, and the word "Sorry" is displayed.

[0193] Figure 18(b) shows the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed from the state shown in Figure 18(a). The roulette display D is a display that rotates clockwise (rotating display). Therefore, the position of the second area D2 changes from moment to moment. Note that the arrow E is a display that does not move or rotate (fixed display).

[0194] The second special effect has a game feature that encourages the player to aim to press the effect button 26 at the timing when the second area D2 reaches (the position of) the tip of the arrow E. If the effect button 26 is pressed at the timing when the second area D2 reaches the tip of the arrow E, the effect control means 300 determines that the pressing of the effect button 26 has been successful, and displays a bonus image as shown in Fig. 18(c).

[0195] Here, the timing when the second region D2 reaches the tip of the arrow E is defined as the second specific timing. In this embodiment, not only when the effect button 26 is pressed at the second specific timing, but also when the effect button 26 is pressed within a period (first period) from about two frames before the second specific timing to about two frames after the second specific timing, it is determined that the effect button 26 has been pressed successfully, and a bonus image is displayed. Note that one frame is 1 / 30 seconds. In other words, even if the timing of pressing the effect button 26 is slightly off (before or after) the second specific timing, it is determined that the press has been successful. The first period is (a period of) a part of the effective operation period of the effect button 26.

[0196] When the effect control means 300 displays a bonus image based on the (successful) pressing of the effect button 26, it continues to display the bonus image until the congratulatory effect shown in FIG. 18(e) is executed. When the effect button 26 is successfully pressed, the effect control means 300 displays the bonus image for a first time period. Furthermore, based on the successful pressing of the effect button 26, the effect control means 300 outputs a dedicated (special) sound (message) that is only output in special effects. Furthermore, when the effect button 26 is successfully pressed, the effect control means 300 makes the roulette display D and the arrow E invisible (hide them).

[0197] If the effect button 26 is not pressed within the first period and the first period has elapsed (ended), the effect control means 300 determines that the pressing of the effect button 26 has failed, and displays the bonus image for a second time period that is shorter than the first time period, based on the elapse of the first period. After displaying the bonus image for the second time period, the effect control means 300 displays the specific background again, as shown in FIG. 18(d). Furthermore, if the pressing of the effect button 26 has failed, the effect control means 300 does not make the roulette display D and the arrow E invisible (non-display). In other words, the roulette display D continues to rotate. Note that the special effect ends before the second region D2 again reaches the tip of the arrow E, and the celebratory effect shown in FIG. 18(e) is executed (started).

[0198] In this embodiment, there are two patterns of the second special effect, and which pattern of the second special effect will be executed is determined by lottery or the like. The two patterns are a constant speed pattern and a deceleration pattern, and the two patterns differ in the difficulty of successfully pressing the effect button 26. When the constant speed pattern is determined, the roulette display D rotates at a constant speed (first speed). When the deceleration pattern is determined, the rotation speed of the roulette display D changes in the following order: first speed, second speed slower than the first speed, and then back to the first speed. That is, the roulette display D starts rotating at the first speed, and when the second region D2 reaches a predetermined position above the tip of the arrow E (a position shorter than the tip of the arrow E), it starts rotating at the second speed, and when it passes the tip of the arrow E, it starts rotating at the first speed again. For this reason, when a deceleration pattern is determined, it is easier to press the effect button 26 at the timing when the second region D2 reaches the tip of the arrow E than when a constant speed pattern is determined, and it is easier to successfully press the effect button 26 (it is easier to execute the display of the bonus image for the first hour).

[0199] (3rd special performance) FIG. 19(a) shows the liquid crystal display 32 immediately after the start of the third special effect. A specific background is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, a display (remaining time-saving count display) showing the remaining number of times the second special symbol will change display until the time-saving state ends is displayed in the upper left part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, a rectangular countdown display G is displayed in the lower center part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. Although not shown, a message urging the player to press the effect button 26 at a predetermined timing (when the number reaches "0") may be displayed near the countdown display G. The countdown display G includes a frame and a number portion displayed within the frame, and the value of the number portion decreases by one from an initial value (for example, "5") to "0."

[0200] Figure 19(b) shows the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since the state shown in Figure 19(a). The value of the countdown display G has decreased from the initial value and is now "3".

[0201] The third special effect has a game feature that encourages the player to aim to press the effect button 26 at the timing when the value of the countdown display G reaches "0." If the effect button 26 is pressed at the timing when the value of the countdown display G reaches "0," the effect control means 300 determines that the pressing of the effect button 26 has been successful, and displays a bonus image as shown in FIG. 19(c).

[0202] Here, the timing when the value of the countdown display G reaches "0" is defined as the third specific timing. In this embodiment, not only when the effect button 26 is pressed at the third specific timing, but also when the effect button 26 is pressed within a period (first period) from about two frames before the third specific timing to about two frames after the third specific timing, it is determined that the effect button 26 has been pressed successfully, and a bonus image is displayed. Note that one frame is 1 / 30 seconds. In other words, even if the timing of pressing the effect button 26 is slightly off (before or after) the third specific timing, it is determined that the press has been successful. The first period is a part (of) of the effective operation period of the effect button 26.

[0203] When the performance control means 300 displays the bonus image based on the (successful) pressing of the performance button 26, it continues to display the bonus image until the celebratory performance shown in FIG. 19(e) is executed. When the performance button 26 is successfully pressed, the performance control means 300 displays the bonus image for a first time period. Furthermore, based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, the performance control means 300 outputs a dedicated (special) sound (message) that is only output in special performances. Furthermore, when the performance button 26 is successfully pressed, the performance control means 300 makes the countdown display G invisible (hide).

[0204] If the effect button 26 is not pressed within the first period and the first period has elapsed (ended), the effect control means 300 determines that the pressing of the effect button 26 has failed, and displays the bonus image for a second time period that is shorter than the first time period, based on the elapse of the first period. After displaying the bonus image for the second time period, the effect control means 300 displays the specific background again, as shown in FIG. 19(d). Furthermore, if the pressing of the effect button 26 has failed, the effect control means 300 does not make the countdown display G invisible (hidden), but displays a predetermined character (for example, "Please try again") within the frame. Thereafter, the congratulatory effect shown in FIG. 19(e) is executed (started).

[0205] (4th special performance) FIG. 20(a) shows the LCD display 32 immediately after the start of the first special effect. A specific background is displayed on the screen of the LCD display 32. A display (remaining time-saving count display) showing the remaining number of times the second special symbol will change display until the time-saving state ends is also displayed in the upper left corner of the screen of the LCD display 32. A first display S is also displayed in the lower left corner of the screen of the LCD display 32. The first display S is a display (fixed display) that remains displayed in the same position. The first display S includes a frame and three symbols (7 symbols). The frame has partitions that divide the frame into three regions (left region, center region, and right region). A gold 7 symbol (the same symbol as the effect symbol) is displayed in the left region and center region, and a gray 7 symbol S1 is displayed in the right region. The first display S can be said to be in a state where the gold 7 symbol is in tenpai. The frame of the first display S may be a display (design) that resembles the reels of a slot machine.

[0206] FIG. 20(b) shows the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed from the state shown in FIG. 20(a). The second display T is a display (moving display) that moves over time, appearing from one side (top) of the screen in the vertical direction, gradually moving toward the other side (bottom), and becoming invisible upon reaching the other side (bottom). The second display T passes through the right region of the first display S and moves along a straight line extending in the vertical direction. The second display T is a gold 7 symbol and is identical to the symbols stopped in the left and center regions. The second display T, i.e., the gold 7 symbol, is the same shape and size as the gray 7 symbol S1 displayed in the right region of the first display S, and the two are configured to overlap at a predetermined timing. The second display T is set to have a higher display priority (arranged in a higher layer) than the first display S (gray 7 symbol S1), and the second display T is displayed (visually perceived) in front of the gray 7 symbol S1.

[0207] The fourth special effect has a gameplay feature that encourages the player to press the effect button 26 at the timing when the second display T overlaps with the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S. This can be said to be a gameplay feature similar to the gameplay feature of a slot machine in which the player uses their eyes to aim for a line of 7 symbols. If the effect button 26 is pressed at the timing when the second display T overlaps with the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S, the effect control means 300 determines that the pressing of the effect button 26 has been successful, and displays a bonus image as shown in FIG. 20(c).

[0208] Here, the timing when the second display T overlaps with the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S is defined as the fourth specific timing. In this embodiment, not only when the effect button 26 is pressed at the fourth specific timing, but also when the effect button 26 is pressed within a period (first period) from about two frames before the fourth specific timing to about two frames after the fourth specific timing, it is determined that the effect button 26 has been pressed successfully, and a bonus image is displayed. Note that one frame is 1 / 30 seconds. In other words, even if the timing of pressing the effect button 26 is slightly off (before or after) the fourth specific timing, it is determined that the press has been successful. The first period is a part (of) of the effective operation period of the effect button 26.

[0209] When the performance control means 300 displays a bonus image based on the (successful) pressing of the performance button 26, it continues to display the bonus image until the congratulatory performance shown in Fig. 20(e) is executed. When the performance button 26 is successfully pressed, the performance control means 300 displays the bonus image for a first time. Furthermore, based on the successful pressing of the performance button 26, the performance control means 300 outputs a dedicated (special) sound (message) that is only output in a special performance.

[0210] If the effect button 26 is successfully pressed, the effect control means 300 stops the movement of the second display T (golden 7 symbol) and maintains the state in which the second display T and the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S overlap (the state in which the gray 7 symbol S1 is covered by the gold 7 symbol) until the congratulatory effect is executed. However, the effect control means 300 may display a bonus image based on the successful pressing of the effect button 26, and may also make the second display T and the first display S invisible (hidden).

[0211] If the effect button 26 is not pressed within the first period and the first period has elapsed (ended), the effect control means 300 determines that the pressing of the effect button 26 has failed, and displays the bonus image for a second time period that is shorter than the first time period, based on the elapse of the first period. After displaying the bonus image for the second time period, the effect control means 300 displays the specific background again, as shown in FIG. 20(d). Furthermore, if the pressing of the effect button 26 has failed, the effect control means 300 does not stop the movement of the second display T. The second display T moves past the position of the first display S to the bottom side (bottom edge) of the screen.

[0212] In this embodiment, there are two patterns for the fourth special effect, and which pattern of the fourth special effect will be executed is determined by lottery or the like. The two patterns are a constant speed pattern and a deceleration pattern, and the two patterns differ in the difficulty of successfully pressing the effect button 26. When the constant speed pattern is determined, the second display T moves at a constant speed (first speed). When the deceleration pattern is determined, the movement speed of the second display T changes in the following order: first speed, second speed slower than the first speed, and then back to the first speed. That is, the second display T starts moving at the first speed, and when it reaches a predetermined position above the first display S (gray 7 symbol S1) (just before overlapping with the 7 symbol S1), it moves at the second speed slower than the first speed, and when it passes the position of the first display S (7 symbol S1), it moves again at the first speed. For this reason, when a deceleration pattern is determined, it is easier to press the effect button 26 at the timing when the second display T overlaps with the gray 7 symbol S1 of the first display S, and it is easier to successfully press the effect button 26 (it is easier to execute the display of the bonus image for the first hour) than when a constant speed pattern is determined.

[0213] (1500 or more hits) Incidentally, if a player wins a "jackpot" in the second special symbol lottery, the symbol determination process will select "jackpot 3" (10R time reduction 10,000) with a probability of 12.8 / 100, and "jackpot 4" (7R time reduction 110) with a probability of 87.2 / 100, as shown in FIG. 7(b). If a player wins a "small jackpot" in the second special symbol lottery, the symbol determination process will select "small jackpot 1" (10R time reduction 10,000) with a probability of 50 / 100, and "small jackpot 2" (7R time reduction 110) with a probability of 50 / 100, as shown in FIG. 7(c). A win resulting in a 10R special game ("jackpot 3" or "small jackpot 1") is called a "win of 1,500 or more balls" (the second result) because the player can win 1,500 prize balls. In addition, the winning result that results in a 7R special game ("Big Win 4" or "Small Win 2") is called a "win of less than 1500 balls" (first result). The second result has more winning balls than the first result, and can be said to be a result that is advantageous to the player.

[0214] In this embodiment, the fourth special effect, in which a gold 7 symbol (a symbol more special than the other symbols) is displayed, is an effect that can be executed when the second result (a hit of 1500 or more shots) is obtained in the special symbol lottery. In other words, the fourth special effect is an effect that will not be executed when the first result (a hit of less than 1500 shots) is obtained in the special symbol lottery. Note that the first to third special effects can be executed regardless of the hit.

[0215] In this embodiment, multiple types of bonus images are provided, including a special bonus image (premium image). The probability that a special bonus image will be displayed in the fourth special effect is higher than the probability that a special bonus image will be displayed in other special effects (first special effect, second special effect, or third special effect). In this case, the "probability that a special bonus image will be displayed in other special effects" may be 0%. In other words, the special bonus image may be displayed only in the fourth special effect. The special bonus image appears less frequently than normal bonus images, and is an image that can excite players more. As mentioned above, the bonus images (including the special bonus images) are not images that suggest the likelihood of winning (a specific result). In other words, the likelihood of winning (the probability of winning) does not change depending on which bonus image is displayed in the special effect.

[0216] In this embodiment, the first to fourth special effects are achieved by pressing the effect button 26 at a predetermined timing (within the first period), but this is not limited to pressing the effect button 16, and any operation of the effect operation means (e.g., lever 15) will do.

[0217] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine having a gaming area (gaming area 4) in which gaming media move, and launching gaming media into the gaming area in response to a player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) that controls the progress of the game; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of performance; A display means (liquid crystal display 32) capable of displaying an image; and a performance operation means (performance button 26) that can be operated by a player, The main control means includes a lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a lottery based on the game medium entering a predetermined area (second starting opening 49) provided in the game area, The results of the lottery include a specific result for executing a special game advantageous to the player; The effect control means is capable of executing a special effect at a predetermined opportunity, and in the special effect, the operation of the effect operation means is enabled; the effect control means is capable of displaying a bonus image for a first time period when the effect operation means is operated during a first period that is a part of an operation valid period of the effect operation means; The effect control means can display the bonus image for a second time period that is shorter than the first time period, even if the effect operation means is not operated during the first period.

[0218] When a player operates the effect operation means during a first period in a special effect, an image (a bonus image) is displayed for a first time as a bonus for operating the effect operation means during the first time period (successful pressing). Even if the player fails to operate the effect operation means during the first time period (failed pressing), the bonus image is displayed for a second time period, which is shorter than the first time period. Because an effect with a gameplay characteristic that encourages the player to operate the effect operation means during the first time period in order to view the special effect, i.e., the bonus image, for a longer period of time, is executed, the player's interest in the game can be enhanced. Furthermore, even if the player fails to press the button, by displaying the bonus image for a second time period, the player can be encouraged to successfully press the button the next time the special effect is executed and view the bonus image for a longer period of time (first time). In other words, the game can interest and attract the player. This can enhance the player's interest in the game.

[0219] In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The special effect is an effect that can be executed in a situation where the specific result is obtained, The bonus image does not suggest the likelihood of obtaining the specific result.

[0220] The special effect is an effect that is executed when a specific result is obtained, and the bonus image does not indicate the likelihood of obtaining a specific result. Therefore, the player does not need to operate the effect operation means (with force or tension) in the hope that an image indicating a high likelihood of obtaining the result will be displayed. In other words, the player can operate the effect operation means in a relaxed (easy) manner and enjoy the special effect (whether or not the bonus image can be displayed for the first time). This can increase the interest in the game.

[0221] In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The first period and the second period are of equal magnitude. If the first period is relatively short, the second time will also be short. If the first period is shortened to make it more difficult to successfully press the effect operation means (increasing the difficulty level), the second time will also be shortened, making it more difficult for the player to understand the content of the bonus image. This makes it possible to make the player want to view the bonus image for a longer period of time, that is, to successfully press the button the next time a special effect is executed.

[0222] (Variation) In this embodiment, even if the effect button 26 fails to be pressed (failed to be pressed within the first period) for the first to fourth special effects, the bonus image is displayed for the second time (short period). However, if the effect button 26 fails to be pressed, the bonus image may not be displayed. In other words, the bonus image may be displayed only when the effect button 26 is successfully pressed.

[0223] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, the embodiments can be freely combined, or any component of each embodiment can be modified, or any component of each embodiment can be omitted. The present invention can also be applied to conventional pachinko gaming machines, i.e., pachinko gaming machines in which players can physically touch game balls and game balls are paid out to a tray when the game balls enter a predetermined winning slot. [Explanation of symbols]

[0224] 4 Gaming area 15 Lever (operation means) 49 Second starting port (prescribed area) 200 Main control board (main control means) 230 Special design lottery means (lottery means) 300 Production control means

Claims

[Claim 1] A gaming machine having a gaming area in which gaming media move, and launching gaming media into the gaming area in response to a player's operation, A main control means for controlling the progress of a game; a performance control means for controlling performance based on information transmitted from the main control means; a performance operation means operable by a player; a display means; the main control means includes a lottery means for conducting a lottery based on the entry of a gaming medium into a predetermined area provided in the gaming area; The results of the lottery include a specific result for executing a special game advantageous to the player; the specific outcomes include a first outcome and a second outcome that is more advantageous to the player than the first outcome; In the display means, the effect symbols are displayed in a variable manner and then stopped, and a variable effect that notifies the result of the lottery is executed, During the variable display of the performance pattern related to the specific result obtained in the lottery, a specific period during which the operation of the performance operation means is valid can be set, Based on the fact that the performance operation means has been operated during the specific period, a specific performance different from the variable performance, which indicates in advance that the specific result has been obtained, can be executed via a performance device different from the display means, As the specific effects, at least the specific effect of a first aspect and the specific effect of a second aspect are provided, and the specific effect of the second aspect can suggest that the second result has been obtained; When the same effect operation means is operated multiple times within the specific period, the specific effect can be executed each time the effect operation means is operated, and the probability that the specific effect of the second mode will be executed based on the second or subsequent operation is higher than the probability that the specific effect of the second mode will be executed based on the first operation.

Images