Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine that can provide information appropriately according to the situation.SOLUTION: At least when the position of a movable body is an original position, a specific brand image is visible in the front view. When the position of the movable body is changed from the original position to a performance position, the visibility of the specific brand image in the front view decreases.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a gaming machine.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, among gaming machines, there are gaming machines in which the manufacturing company corresponding to the manufacturer of the gaming machine and the brand of the gaming machine are different. For example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, it is described that the manufacturer and the brand are different. And in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, it is described that information on each of the manufacturer and the brand is displayed. By the way, when the administrator of the gaming machine makes an inquiry regarding the gaming machine, the administrator wants to identify the manufacturer rather than the brand. On the other hand, players often recognize the gaming machine by its brand rather than by the manufacturer. Thus, in gaming machines, the information required can vary depending on the situation.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Today, it is desired to appropriately provide information according to the situation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The gaming machine that solves the above problems includes a movable door portion, a movable portion different from the door portion, a manufacturer information portion capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine, and a brand information portion capable of displaying brand information that is at least partially different from the manufacturer information. At the positions that the movable portion can take, there are at least a first position and a second position different from the first position. In a predetermined state in which the door portion is moved from a specific position to a predetermined position,When the movable part is in the first position, the brand information is visible in a front view. In the predetermined state, when the movable part is in the first position, the manufacturer information is visible in a front view; in the specific state where the door is in the specific position, when the movable part is in the first position, the visibility of the manufacturer information is reduced compared to when the movable part is in the first position in the predetermined state; in the specific state, when the movable part is in the first position, the visibility of the brand information is not reduced compared to when the movable part is in the first position in the predetermined state; and in the predetermined state, The gist of this is that when the movable part is in the second position, the visibility of the brand information in a front view is reduced compared to when it is in the first position. A gaming machine that solves the above problem comprises a movable door section, a movable section different from the door section, a manufacturer information section capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine, and a brand information section capable of displaying brand information that is at least partially different from the manufacturer information, wherein the movable section can take on at least a first state and a second state different from the first state. In a predetermined state in which the door portion is moved from a specific position to a predetermined position, When the state of the movable part is the first state, the brand information is visible in a front view. In the predetermined state, when the state of the movable part is the first state, the manufacturer information is visible in a front view, and in the specific state where the door is in the specific position, when the state of the movable part is the first state, the visibility of the manufacturer information is reduced compared to when the state of the movable part is the first state in the predetermined state, and in the predetermined state, when the state of the movable part is the second state, the visibility of the manufacturer information in a front view is not reduced compared to when it is the first state, and in the predetermined state, The gist of this is that when the movable part is in the second state, the visibility of the brand information in a front view is lower than when it is in the first state. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, information can be provided appropriately depending on the situation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a front view of the gaming machine. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a front view of the game board. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a gaming machine. [Figure 4] Figures 4(a) and 4(b) show an example of the relationship between the display content of the performance display device and the position of the movable body in the operation confirmation mode. [Figure 5]Figure 5(a) shows an example of the relationship between the display content of the performance display device and the position of the movable body when the movable body is in its original position; Figure 5(b) shows an example of the relationship between the display content of the performance display device and the position of the movable body when the movable body is in the performance position and the display mode of the performance display device is in the hidden display mode; Figure 5(c) shows an example of the relationship between the display content of the performance display device and the position of the movable body when the movable body is in the performance position and the display mode of the performance display device is in the reduced display mode; and Figure 5(d) shows the switching pattern between the hidden display mode and the reduced display mode. [Figure 6] Figures 6(a) and 6(b) show examples of the display content of the performance display device and the changes in the position of the movable body in the operation confirmation mode. [Figure 7] Figures 7(a) to 7(c) show examples of changes in the display content and position of a movable body of a performance display device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following describes the embodiments of the gaming machine. In this specification, top, bottom, left, right, front (front), and back (back) refer to the directions as seen from the player's perspective. As shown in Figure 1, the pachinko game machine 10 (hereinafter referred to as "game machine 10") comprises a frame 11. The frame 11 comprises an outer frame 12, an inner frame 13, and a front frame 14. The outer frame 12 is fixed to the installation equipment. The inner frame 13 is supported on the front side of the opening of the outer frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. A game board unit including a game board 20 is fixed to the inner frame 13. The front frame 14 is supported on the front side of the inner frame 13 so as to cover the front of the game board 20. The front frame 14 supports protective glass that covers the entire opening 14a of the front frame 14 and protects the game board 20. The inner frame 13 and the front frame 14 are supported on the outer frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. The game machine 10 is provided with a locking mechanism SA for restricting the opening of the inner frame 13 and the front frame 14 and for releasing said restrictions. For example, the locking mechanism SA can be unlocked by using a frame key (key) managed by the administrator of the gaming arcade, thereby opening the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14. In the gaming machine 10, the middle frame 13 can be opened by operating the middle frame 13 and moving the movable middle frame 13. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, the front frame 14 can be opened by operating the front frame 14 and moving the movable front frame 14. Thus, the middle frame 13 can take on at least a closed position and an open position. Similarly, the front frame 14 can take on at least a closed position and an open position. In the gaming machine 10, the middle frame 13 can be operated by operating the locking mechanism SA. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, the front frame 14 can be operated by operating the locking mechanism SA.

[0009] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with an open sensor SE5 (shown in Figure 3) that detects the opening of the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14, which serve as door members. The open sensor SE5 can detect when at least one of the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 is open. In the following description, when the door members are open, it corresponds to when at least one of the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 is open. Also, in the following description, when the door members are closed, it corresponds to when the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 are closed. In the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is closed, the middle frame 13 is also closed. Therefore, when the front frame 14 is closed, it corresponds to when the door members are closed. It is also possible to consider only the front frame 14 of the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 as the door members. The door members can take any position, at least a closed position and an open position. In this embodiment, when the door members are open, it corresponds to when an open error has occurred. The open sensor SE5 corresponds to a sensor capable of detecting an open error.

[0010] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with decorative lamps 17 on the front side of the front frame 14. The decorative lamps 17 perform a lighting effect (hereinafter referred to as a lighting effect) by turning on and off a built-in light-emitting element. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with speakers 18 on the front side of the front frame 14 that output sound. The speakers 18 perform a sound effect (hereinafter referred to as a sound effect) by outputting sounds such as voices, sound effects, and music. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with operable operation buttons BT on the front side of the front frame 14. The front frame 14 displays a brand design BD that identifies the brand of the gaming machine 10. The brand design BD displayed on the front frame 14 is part of the design of the front frame 14. The brand design BD can be considered a type of information that identifies the brand. The brand design BD on the front frame 14 may be composed of a sticker on which information that identifies the brand is printed.

[0011] In the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is closed, the brand design BD is visible from the front. In other words, at least when the front frame 14 is in the closed position, the brand design BD is visible from the front. In the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is open, the brand design BD is not visible from the front. Therefore, when the position of the front frame 14 changes from a closed position to an open position, the visibility of the brand design BD from the front decreases. In other words, when the brand design BD is visible from the front when the front frame 14 is in the closed position, and then the position of the front frame 14 changes to an open position, the visibility of the brand design BD from the front decreases.

[0012] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with an operable launching handle 16 on the front side of the front frame 14. In the gaming machine 10, game balls, which are the game medium, are launched with a force corresponding to the amount of operation (rotation) of the launching handle 16. For example, in the gaming machine 10, when a player operates the launching handle 16, a launching device 70, which is a game ball launching device installed inside the machine, is driven and a game ball is launched. In this way, the gaming machine 10 makes it possible to launch game balls by operating the launching handle 16. The launching handle 16 also has a touch sensor 71 (shown in Figure 3) that can detect when the launching handle 16 is touched, that is, when the launching handle 16 is operated.

[0013] As shown in Figure 2, a roughly circular game area 21 is defined on the front side of the game board 20 when viewed from the front. The game board 20 is equipped with a guide path 21a that guides the launched game balls to the game area 21. The game board 20 is equipped with a prevention valve 21b that prevents the game balls launched into the game area 21 from returning to the guide path 21a. The launched game balls are guided in the guide path 21a, pass through the prevention valve 21b located at the downstream end of the guide path 21a, and reach the game area 21. Once the game balls reach the game area 21, they flow down through the game area 21. A manufacturer's identification sticker SS that identifies the manufacturer of the game machine 10 is affixed to the game board 20, and the manufacturer is displayed. The manufacturer's identification sticker SS is affixed to an area of ​​the game board 20 other than the game area 21. The manufacturer's identification sticker SS can be considered a type of information that identifies the manufacturer.

[0014] In the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is open, the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is visible from the front. In other words, the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is visible at least when the front frame 14 is in the open position. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is closed, the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is not visible from the front. Therefore, when the position of the front frame 14 changes from the open position to the closed position, the visibility of the manufacturer's certification sticker SS from the front decreases. Thus, when the front frame 14 is in the open position, at least the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is visible from the front among the information regarding the manufacturer's certification sticker SS and the brand.

[0015] The gaming machine 10 includes an information display panel 22. The information display panel 22 includes a first special symbol display section 22a. The first special symbol display section 22a displays a first special symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as the first special game) in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and finally the first special symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed. The information display panel 22 includes a second special symbol display section 22b. The second special symbol display section 22b displays a second special symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as the second special game) in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and finally the second special symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed. Hereinafter, the first special game and the second special game may be collectively referred to as the "special game". The special game as a variation game includes the first special game as the first variation game and the second special game as the second variation game. The special game is a special symbol variation game. The special symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of an internal lottery described later.

[0016] In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of the displayed symbol changes with the passage of time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" means a state in which the symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed and the type of the displayed symbol does not change. The special symbols that can be fixedly stopped and displayed in the special symbol display sections 22a and 22b include jackpot symbols and losing symbols. When a jackpot symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed in the special game, the player can recognize a jackpot. When a losing symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed in the special game, the player can recognize a loss. In the gaming machine 10, the first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously. In the gaming machine 10, the second special game is executed with priority over the first special game.

[0017] The first special symbol display section 22a is composed of a plurality of light emitters. When a special symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed in the first special symbol display section 22a, at least one of the plurality of light emitters constituting the first special symbol display section 22a lights up. Incidentally, during the execution of the first special game, the light emitters constituting the first special symbol display section 22a light up in a lighting pattern corresponding to the execution of the first special game. Similarly, the second special symbol display section 22b is composed of a plurality of light emitters. When a special symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed in the second special symbol display section 22b, at least one of the plurality of light emitters constituting the second special symbol display section 22b lights up. Incidentally, during the execution of the second special game, the light emitters constituting the second special symbol display section 22b light up in a lighting pattern corresponding to the execution of the second special game.

[0018] In the gaming machine 10, a jackpot lottery may be conducted when executing a special game. In the gaming machine 10, when winning the jackpot in the jackpot lottery, a jackpot symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed in the special game targeted by the winning, and then a jackpot game is awarded (occurs). Thus, when winning the jackpot in the jackpot lottery conducted when executing a special game, the gaming machine 10 can award a jackpot game after the special game ends. That is, in the gaming machine 10, a jackpot game is awarded when winning the jackpot lottery. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, when winning the jackpot, a jackpot game is awarded after the end of the special game based on winning the jackpot. That is, the gaming machine 10 is configured such that a jackpot game is awarded after the end of the variable game when winning the jackpot. Thus, the gaming machine 10 can award a jackpot game.

[0019] Winning the jackpot in the jackpot lottery is equivalent to winning the jackpot lottery, and is equivalent to winning the jackpot in the winning lottery. In the special game, when the jackpot symbols are displayed as confirmed stops, it is equivalent to deriving the result of winning the jackpot in the special game. In the special game, when the losing symbols are displayed as confirmed stops, it is equivalent to deriving the result of not winning the jackpot in the special game.

[0020] The information display panel 22 includes a first special hold display unit 22c and a second special hold display unit 22d. The first special hold display unit 22c displays the number of times the first special game has been held (hereinafter referred to as the first special hold count) that has been held in a state of readability because the start condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met. The gaming machine 10 can hold in a state of readability for the execution of the first special game. The second special hold display unit 22d displays the number of times the second special game has been held (hereinafter referred to as the second special hold count) that has been held in a state of readability because the start condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met. The gaming machine 10 can hold in a state of readability for the execution of the second special game. Thus, in this embodiment, the execution of a variable game can be held in a state of readability. The first special hold display unit 22c is composed of a plurality of light-emitting elements. The plurality of light-emitting elements constituting the first special hold display unit 22c light up in a lighting pattern that allows for the identification of the number of times the first special game has been held in a state of readability for the execution of the first special game. The multiple light-emitting elements constituting the second special hold indicator unit 22d light up in a manner that allows for the identification of the number of times the second special game is being held in a hold.

[0021] The information display panel 22 includes a normal symbol display unit 22e and a normal hold display unit 22f. The normal symbol display unit 22e displays a normal symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as a normal game) in which predetermined symbols are displayed in a variable manner and ultimately a normal symbol is displayed as a confirmed stop. The normal symbols that can be displayed as confirmed stops on the normal symbol display unit 22e include at least a normal win symbol that is displayed as a confirmed stop in the case of a normal win, and a normal loss symbol that is displayed as a confirmed stop in the case of a normal loss. In the gaming machine 10, when a normal win lottery is won, a normal win game is awarded (occurs) after the normal win symbol is displayed as a confirmed stop in the normal game. The normal hold display unit 22f displays the number of normal games (hereinafter referred to as the normal hold count) in which the execution is pending because the start condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met. The normal symbol display unit 22e is composed of multiple light-emitting elements. When a regular symbol is displayed as confirmed and stopped in the regular symbol display unit 22e, at least one of the multiple light-emitting elements constituting the regular symbol display unit 22e lights up. The regular hold display unit 22f is also composed of multiple light-emitting elements. The multiple light-emitting elements constituting the regular hold display unit 22f light up in a manner that allows for the identification of the number of regular games that are currently being held in a pending state.

[0022] The special symbol display sections 22a, 22b, special hold display sections 22c, 22d, normal symbol display section 22e, and normal hold display section 22f provided on the information display panel 22 do not need to be provided on the same component as the information display panel 22 in this embodiment, but may be provided separately on different components. For example, the first special symbol display section 22a and the first special hold display section 22c may be provided on the same component, while the second special symbol display section 22b and the second special hold display section 22d may be provided on a different component.

[0023] The gaming machine 10 has a center frame 23 with various decorations located approximately in the center of the game area 21 of the game board 20. The center frame 23 has an opening 23a. The gaming machine 10 has a movable body 38 as a movable part. The movable body 38 is operable. That is, the movable body 38 is movable. The movable body 38 is operable between the original position 38a and the performance position 38b. The movable body 38 is configured to be operable to at least the original position 38a and the performance position 38b which is different from the original position 38a. In this embodiment, the original position 38a corresponds to the first position and the performance position 38b corresponds to the second position. That is, there are at least the first position and the second position which is different from the first position that the movable part can take. The movable part is configured to be operable to at least the first position and the second position which is different from the first position. When the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, a portion of the display area 25r of the performance display device 25 (the lower right portion in the front view) becomes invisible from the front. Therefore, when the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, the image displayed in a portion of the display area 25r of the performance display device 25 (the lower right portion in the front view) becomes invisible from the front. Furthermore, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, a portion of the display area 25r of the performance display device 25 (the lower left portion in the front view) becomes invisible from the front. Therefore, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the image displayed in a portion of the display area 25r of the performance display device 25 (the lower left portion in the front view) becomes invisible from the front.

[0024] The movable body 38 operates by receiving power from the performance actuator EA (shown in Figure 3). The movable body 38 has a gear mechanism for transmitting power from the performance actuator EA. In the gaming machine 10, the power from the performance actuator EA is transmitted through the gear mechanism to operate the movable body 38. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a home position sensor PS1 (shown in Figure 3) that can detect the movable body 38 when it is in its home position 38a. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a performance position sensor PS2 (shown in Figure 3) that can detect the movable body 38 when it is in the performance position 38b.

[0025] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a performance display device 25 as a display means. For example, the performance display device 25 may be a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The performance display device 25 is equipped with a display area 25r on which an image is displayed. The performance display device 25 is assembled to the gaming board 20 so that the player can see the display area 25r through the opening 23a of the center frame 23. The performance display device 25 performs a performance (hereinafter referred to as a display performance) that displays an image that imitates a predetermined character or letter. In this embodiment, some or all of the performance devices among the decorative lamp 17, speaker 18 and performance display device 25 correspond to performance execution means.

[0026] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a first start opening 26 as a starting point. The first start opening 26 is located below the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The first start opening 26 is open at all times so that game balls can be inserted into it. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a first start sensor SE1 (shown in Figure 3) that detects game balls that have entered the first start opening 26. For example, the first start opening 26 is connected to a ball passage that guides the entered game balls to the back of the game board 20 (discharges them from the game board 20 to the outside), and the first start sensor SE1 is installed in that ball passage. When a game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, the conditions for starting the first special game may be met, and the conditions for paying out prize balls may also be met.

[0027] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a second start port 27 as a start port. The second start port 27 is located in the lower right of the center frame 23 within the game area 21. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a second start sensor SE2 (shown in Figure 3) that detects game balls that enter the second start port 27. For example, the second start port 27 is connected to a ball passage that guides the entered game balls to the back of the game board 20, and the second start sensor SE2 is installed in this ball passage. When a game ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, the start conditions for the second special game may be met, and the payout conditions for prize balls may also be met. The second start port 27 has a first variable member 28 as an opening and closing member. The first variable member 28 can operate between an open state, which makes it easy or possible to enter game balls into the second start port 27, and a closed state, which makes it difficult (or impossible) to enter game balls into the second start port 27. The first variable member 28 operates by receiving power from the first actuator A1 (shown in Figure 3). Hereinafter, when the first variable member 28 is in an open state, it will be indicated as "the second start port 27 is opened," and when the first variable member 28 is in a closed state, it will be indicated as "the second start port 27 is closed." As described above, the gaming machine 10 is equipped with start ports into which gaming balls can be inserted. There are two start ports: a first start port and a second start port.

[0028] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a large prize opening 29. The large prize opening 29 is located to the right of the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a count sensor SE3 (shown in Figure 3) that detects game balls that enter the large prize opening 29. For example, the large prize opening 29 is connected to a ball passage that guides the entered game balls to the back of the game board 20, and the count sensor SE3 is installed in this ball passage. When a game ball is detected by the count sensor SE3, the conditions for paying out prize balls are met. The large prize opening 29 has a second variable member 30. The second variable member 30 can operate in an open state that allows game balls to enter the large prize opening 29 and a closed state that prevents game balls from entering the large prize opening 29. The second variable member 30 operates by receiving power from a second actuator A2 (shown in Figure 3). When the second variable member 30 is in the open state, game balls are allowed to enter the large prize opening 29. When the second variable member 30 is in the closed state, game balls are not allowed to enter the large prize opening 29. Hereinafter, the open state of the second variable member 30 may be referred to as "the large prize opening 29 is opened," and the closed state of the second variable member 30 may be referred to as "the large prize opening 29 is closed."

[0029] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a gate 33. The gate 33 is located to the right of the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The gate 33 has an opening that is kept open at all times to allow game balls to enter. A gate sensor SE4 (shown in Figure 3) is installed at the gate opening to detect game balls entering and passing through. When a game ball is detected by the gate sensor SE4, the conditions for starting a normal game can be met. However, it is not necessary to configure the machine so that game balls that enter the gate 33 pass through the gate 33. For example, game balls that enter the gate 33 may pass through a ball passage that leads to the back of the game board 20 and be discharged from the game board 20 to the outside.

[0030] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with an out port 36. In this embodiment, game balls that do not enter the starting ports 26, 27 and the big prize port 29 are discharged out of the machine through the out port 36. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with game components such as nails (game nails) and windmills that change the behavior of game balls flowing down the game area 21. In addition, the gaming machine 10 may be equipped with a ball entry port (so-called general prize port) in which the conditions for starting a special game or a normal game are not met, but the conditions for paying out prize balls are met, and balls can enter at all times. The general prize port is sometimes called a normal prize port.

[0031] Next, we will explain the game state of the gaming machine 10. The gaming machine 10 has two game states with different jackpot probabilities: a low-probability state and a high-probability state. Jackpot probability is the probability of winning a jackpot in the jackpot lottery. The high-probability state is a game state in which the jackpot probability is higher than that of the low-probability state. The high-probability state is what is known as a "probability fluctuation state (probability change state)". The low-probability state is a "non-probability fluctuation state (non-probability change state)". In the following explanation, the high-probability state will be referred to as the "probability change state", and the low-probability state as the "non-probability change state".

[0032] The gaming machine 10 has two game states, a low-base state and a high-base state, which differ in the ratio of the number of prize balls to the number of game balls launched. The high-base state is a game state in which the probability of game balls entering the second start opening 27 is higher than that of the low-base state. The high-base state is a so-called "electric support state". The low-base state is a "non-electric support state". The high-base state offers a greater advantage in terms of balls entering the second start opening 27 compared to the low-base state.

[0033] A high base state can be achieved, for example, by performing one of the three controls described below, or by combining multiple controls. The first control is a control that shortens the variation time of the normal symbols, making the variation time of the normal game shorter than in the low base state. The second control is a control that changes the probability of winning a normal win in the normal win lottery (normal win probability) to a higher probability than in the low base state. The third control is an opening time extension control that makes the total opening time of the first variable member 28 in one normal win game longer than in the low base state. As for the opening time extension control, it is preferable to perform at least one of the following controls: a control that increases the number of times the first variable member 28 opens in one normal win game compared to the low base state, and a control that makes the single opening time of the first variable member 28 in a normal win game longer than in the low base state. Furthermore, a high base state may be achieved by combining the fourth control described below. The fourth control is a special symbol variation time reduction control, which makes the variation time of special games (for example, the average variation time) easier to shorten than in the low base state. When the special symbol variation time reduction control is performed, the high base state becomes what is called a "variation time reduction state (shortened variation state)".

[0034] In this embodiment, the first variable member 28 may be in the open state even in the low base state, so there is a possibility that a game ball may enter the second start opening 27 even in the low base state. However, in the low base state, the first variable member 28 may not be in the open state and a game ball may not enter the second start opening 27, for example, by configuring it so that a normal win is not achieved in the normal win lottery. Alternatively, in the low base state, the first variable member 28 may not be in the open state even if a normal win is achieved in the normal win lottery, so a game ball may not enter the second start opening 27. When configured as described above, the low base state can be described as a state in which a game ball cannot enter the second start opening 27, and the high base state can be described as a state in which a game ball can enter the second start opening 27.

[0035] Furthermore, the controllable game states in the gaming machine 10 include a "low probability low base state," which is a low base state and a non-probability state. The low probability low base state is what is commonly known as the "normal state (normal game state)." The controllable game states in the gaming machine 10 include a "low probability high base state," which is a high base state and a non-probability state. The controllable game states in the gaming machine 10 include a "high probability high base state," which is a high base state and a probability state. Thus, the controllable game states in the gaming machine 10 include the normal state.

[0036] Next, we will explain the concept of a jackpot in the gaming machine 10. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with multiple types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. These multiple types of jackpot symbols are classified into first jackpot symbols and second jackpot symbols. Each of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has a defined type of jackpot. The jackpot symbols may also have a defined game state after the jackpot game ends. In a jackpot game, an opening sequence is performed to announce the start of the jackpot game for a predetermined opening period. After the opening sequence ends, a round game is played in which the large prize winning slot 29 is opened. Multiple round games are played in a jackpot game. In other words, multiple round games are played in a jackpot game. The round games are played up to a predetermined maximum number of times. In a single round of gameplay, the large prize slot 29 remains open until the end of the first round (when a predetermined maximum number of game balls enter) or the end of the second round (when a predetermined maximum time has elapsed) is met. During round gameplay, round-based animations are performed. In a jackpot game, once the final round of gameplay is complete, an ending animation is performed for a predetermined ending period to announce the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game ends when the ending animation concludes. Thus, in a jackpot game, multiple rounds of gameplay are performed after the opening period ends. Furthermore, in a jackpot game, the ending period begins after all rounds of gameplay have concluded. The jackpot game ends when the ending period concludes.

[0037] Jackpot symbols classified as "First Jackpot Symbols" are designated as "First Jackpot" as the type of jackpot. Jackpot symbols classified as "First Jackpot Symbols" are designated as having a maximum of "10 rounds" of play. Jackpot symbols classified as "First Jackpot Symbols" are designated as being in a probability variation state after the jackpot game ends. Jackpot symbols classified as "First Jackpot Symbols" are designated as being in a high base state after the jackpot game ends. In other words, jackpot symbols classified as "First Jackpot Symbols" are designated as being in a high probability high base state after the jackpot game ends. Jackpot symbols classified as "Second Jackpot Symbols" are designated as "Second Jackpot" as the type of jackpot. Jackpot symbols classified as "Second Jackpot Symbols" are designated as having a maximum of "8 rounds" of play. For jackpot symbols classified as second-tier jackpot symbols, the game state after the jackpot game ends is set to a non-probability state. Additionally, for jackpot symbols classified as second-tier jackpot symbols, the game state after the jackpot game ends is set to a high-base state until 100 special games are completed, or until a jackpot game is awarded before 100 special games are completed. In other words, for jackpot symbols classified as second-tier jackpot symbols, the game state after the jackpot game ends is set to a low-probability, high-base state. In the following explanation, a jackpot game awarded based on a jackpot symbol classified as first-tier jackpot symbols will be referred to as "first-tier jackpot game," and a jackpot game awarded based on a jackpot symbol classified as second-tier jackpot symbols will be referred to as "second-tier jackpot game."

[0038] Next, we will explain the game with changing symbols (hereinafter referred to as the "performance game"). The display device 25 can execute a performance game in which performance symbols (hereinafter referred to as performance symbols) are displayed in multiple columns in a variable manner, and finally a combination of performance symbols is displayed in a fixed stop. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to execute a performance game using performance symbols. Performance symbols are symbols that are decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are also called decorative symbols or ornamental symbols. The performance game is performed by displaying the first, second, and third columns of symbols in a vertical variable manner (scrolling display). The performance symbol in the first column is the first symbol, the performance symbol in the second column is the second symbol, and the performance symbol in the third column is the third symbol. Hereinafter, the first column will be referred to as the "left column" and the first symbol as the "left symbol", the second column as the "middle column" and the second symbol as the "middle symbol", and the third column as the "right column" and the third symbol as the "right symbol". In this embodiment, in principle, each column displays a sequence of symbols resembling the numbers [1] to [8] in a predetermined order.

[0039] The performance game is played in conjunction with the special game. Specifically, the performance game starts when the special game begins and ends when the special game ends. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be playable during the execution of the special game. In the performance game, a combination of performance symbols corresponding to the special symbols that are displayed as confirmed stops in the special game is derived. If a winning symbol is displayed as confirmed stops in the special game, the winning symbol combination is displayed as confirmed stops in the performance game. For example, a winning symbol combination is a combination where all the performance symbols in all rows are the same, such as

[0777] . If a losing symbol is displayed as confirmed stops in the special game, the losing symbol combination is displayed as confirmed stops in the performance game. For example, a losing symbol combination is a combination where at least some of the performance symbols are different from the performance symbols in other rows, such as

[0323] or

[0426] . In the performance game, the performance symbols are displayed as a stop before being displayed as confirmed stops. In this specification, "temporary stop indication" refers to a state that is different from a confirmed stop indication, such as "fluctuating state."

[0040] In the performance game, the display pattern of the performance symbols may become a reach pattern (a reach is formed), and a reach performance may be performed. The reach pattern is a state in which performance symbols resembling the same number are temporarily stopped and displayed in a specific column (for example, the left column and the right column) among multiple columns, and performance symbols in a different column (for example, the middle column) continue to change and display. There may be multiple types of reach performances that differ in the characters that appear and the actions of the performance symbols. Reach performances are performed during the execution of a special game. Reach performances include normal reach performances and super reach performances that are performed after the start of a normal reach performance. In this embodiment, when a super reach performance is performed during the execution of a special game, the expectation of a big win is higher than when only a normal reach performance is performed.

[0041] In the gaming machine 10, during standby mode, the symbol display standby animation, logo animation, and video standby animation are executed on the animation display device 25. Specifically, when the machine enters standby mode, the symbol display standby animation is executed on the animation display device 25 until the first standby time has elapsed. After that, during standby mode, the logo animation is executed on the animation display device 25 until the second standby time has elapsed. Furthermore, during standby mode, the video standby animation is executed on the animation display device 25 until the third standby time has elapsed. When the machine is in standby mode, the symbol display standby animation, logo animation, and video standby animation are executed in sequence and repeatedly on the animation display device 25. For example, when the video standby animation finishes, the animation display device 25 executes the symbol display standby animation again for the first standby time. Regardless of whether the symbol display standby animation, logo animation, or video standby animation is being executed, an error notification animation is executed when the door member is opened. At this time, the error notification animation is executed in parallel with the animation currently running, whichever of the following is currently running: the symbol display standby animation, the logo animation, or the video standby animation. For example, if the error notification animation is executed while the logo animation is running, the viewer's attention will be diverted to the error notification animation, reducing the visibility of the logo animation. Even when the symbol display standby animation is running, if a game ball launched by operating the launch handle 16 enters the start openings 26 and 27, the animation display device 25 will terminate the symbol display standby animation and start the animation game. Similarly, even when the logo animation is running, if a game ball launched by operating the launch handle 16 enters the start openings 26 and 27, the animation display device 25 will terminate the logo animation and start the animation game. Even when the video standby animation is running, if a game ball launched by operating the launch handle 16 enters the start openings 26 and 27, the animation display device 25 will terminate the video standby animation and start the animation game.

[0042] In the symbol display standby animation, the animation display device 25 temporarily pauses and displays the three rows of animation symbols for the animation game. In the logo animation, the animation display device 25 executes an animation that displays the logo mark of the company that is the brand of the gaming machine 10. Executing the logo animation is equivalent to displaying the brand. The brand displayed in the logo animation can be considered a type of information that identifies the brand. The gaming machine 10 may be configured to execute a warning about excessive gambling on the animation display device 25. For example, when in standby mode, the animation may be configured to start executing a warning about excessive gambling after the logo animation has started. For example, the animation may be configured to start executing a warning about excessive gambling after the warning about excessive gambling has started. The logo animation and the warning about excessive gambling may be executed in parallel. In other words, the warning about excessive gambling may be executed when the brand information is visible. In the video standby sequence, the display device 25 executes sequences such as those introducing the character that serves as the motif for the gaming machine 10, or sequences introducing the sequences that will be performed on the gaming machine 10. The video standby sequence is sometimes also called a customer waiting sequence or a demonstration sequence (or simply a demo sequence).

[0043] In the gaming machine 10, when the logo animation is being performed and the front frame 14 is closed, the logo animation and the brand design BD are visible from the front. However, in the gaming machine 10, when the logo animation is being performed and the front frame 14 is open, the logo animation performed on the animation display device 25 is visible from the front, but the brand design BD is not visible from the front. Therefore, when transitioning from a situation where the logo animation is being performed and the front frame 14 is closed to a situation where the logo animation is being performed and the front frame 14 is open, the visibility of the brand design BD from the front decreases compared to the situation where the logo animation is being performed and the front frame 14 is closed.

[0044] Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, the first waiting time is longer than both the second and third waiting times. Also, in the gaming machine 10, the second waiting time is shorter than both the first and third waiting times. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, the third waiting time is shorter than the first waiting time, but longer than the second waiting time. In the gaming machine 10, a series of waiting sequences are executed, transitioning from a symbol display waiting sequence that lasts for the first waiting time to a logo sequence that lasts for the second waiting time, and then to a video waiting sequence that lasts for the third waiting time. In this series of waiting sequences, for example, the logo sequence is executed once. On the other hand, in this series of waiting sequences, for example, the logo sequence is not executed twice. In other words, when in a waiting state, the frequency at which the logo sequence is not visible is higher than the frequency at which the logo sequence is visible. Also, for example, in this series of waiting sequences, the time during which the logo sequence is executed is the second waiting time, which is shorter than both the first and third waiting times. In contrast, for example, in a series of standby sequences, the time during which the logo sequence is not executed is the sum of the time during the first and third standby sequences. In other words, the proportion of time during standby when the logo sequence is not visible is greater than the proportion of time when the logo sequence is visible.

[0045] In the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is opened, the manufacturer's certification sticker SS becomes visible from the front. Furthermore, if the logo animation is being performed at this time, both the logo animation and the manufacturer's certification sticker SS become visible simultaneously from the front. Thus, when the front frame 14 is in the open position, there are cases where only the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is visible, and cases where both the manufacturer's certification sticker SS and the logo animation are visible simultaneously from the front.

[0046] As mentioned above, when in standby mode, the frequency at which the logo animation is not visible is higher than the frequency at which the logo animation is visible. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, even only when in standby mode where the logo animation can be executed, the frequency at which only the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is visible out of the logo animation and the manufacturer's certification sticker SS when the front frame 14 is open is higher than the frequency at which both the logo animation and the manufacturer's certification sticker SS are visible simultaneously in a front view when the front frame 14 is open. In other words, the frequency at which only the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is visible out of the logo animation and the manufacturer's certification sticker SS when the front frame 14 is open is higher than the frequency at which both the logo animation and the manufacturer's certification sticker SS are visible simultaneously in a front view when the front frame 14 is open. Furthermore, as mentioned above, when in standby mode, the proportion at which the logo animation is not visible is greater than the proportion at which the logo animation is visible. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, even if only when the front frame 14 is open, the proportion of times when only the manufacturer's sticker SS is visible out of the proportion of times when both the logo and the manufacturer's sticker SS are visible simultaneously in a front view is greater than the proportion of times when both the logo and the manufacturer's sticker SS are visible simultaneously in a front view. In other words, when the front frame 14 is open, the proportion of times when only the manufacturer's sticker SS is visible out of the proportion of times when both the logo and the manufacturer's sticker SS are visible simultaneously in a front view is greater than the proportion of times when both the logo and the manufacturer's sticker SS are visible simultaneously in a front view.

[0047] Next, we will explain the electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10. As shown in Figure 3, the gaming machine 10 is equipped with a main board 40 as a first control unit (main control unit). The main board 40 performs various processes and outputs control information such as control signals (control commands) according to the results of these processes. The main board 40 has character information that identifies the manufacturer of the gaming machine 10 printed on it, and the manufacturer is displayed. The character information that identifies the manufacturer printed on the main board 40 can be considered a type of information that identifies the manufacturer. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a sub-board 50 as a second control unit (sub-control unit). The sub-board 50 can receive control information output by the main board 40. The sub-board 50 performs predetermined processing based on the control information output by the main board 40. For example, the sub-board 50 performs processing to execute light effects by decorative lamps 17, sound effects by speakers 18, and display effects by the display device 25. The sub-board 50 has character information that identifies the manufacturer of the gaming machine 10 printed on it, and the manufacturer is displayed. The manufacturer-identifiable text information printed on the sub-board 50 can be considered a type of manufacturer-identifiable information. The main board 40 and sub-board 50 are located on the back of the game board 20. The game board unit includes the main board 40 and the sub-board 50. The main board 40 is connected to the sub-board 50. The main board 40 is housed in a main board case. The main board case has manufacturer-identifiable text information printed on it, indicating the manufacturer. The manufacturer-identifiable text information printed on the main board case can be considered a type of manufacturer-identifiable information. The sub-board 50 is housed in a sub-board case. The sub-board case has manufacturer-identifiable text information printed on it, indicating the manufacturer. The manufacturer-identifiable text information printed on the sub-board case can be considered a type of manufacturer-identifiable information.

[0048] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a power supply unit 60. The power supply unit 60 is a unit that supplies power to the main board 40, the sub-board 50, and the launching device 70 when the power switch 61 is turned on. Power is supplied to the gaming machine 10 when the power switch 61 is turned on. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a launching device 70. The launching device 70 is connected to the main board 40.

[0049] First, let me explain the main board 40. The main board 40 includes a main CPU 41, a main ROM 42, and a main RWM 43. The main board 40 also includes a clear switch 45. The main CPU 41 performs various processes by executing its own control program (main control program).

[0050] The main ROM 42 stores the main control program, as well as lottery tables and judgment values ​​used in predetermined lotteries. For example, the main ROM 42 stores the jackpot judgment values ​​used in the jackpot lottery. There are two types of jackpot judgment values: high-probability jackpot judgment values ​​and common jackpot judgment values. In the gaming machine 10, when the game is in a non-probability state, only the common jackpot judgment value is used in the jackpot lottery, while when the game is in a probability state, both the common jackpot judgment value and the high-probability jackpot judgment value are used. The main ROM 42 also stores the performance judgment values ​​used in the performance lottery. In the performance lottery, a decision is made on whether to execute a reach performance. For this reason, the performance lottery can also be called a reach lottery.

[0051] The main ROM 42 stores multiple types of variation patterns. Each of the multiple types of variation patterns is associated with a variation time from the start of the special game until the end of the special game. In other words, the variation pattern is associated with the variation time of the special game. Therefore, the variation pattern can be said to be information that can identify the variation time of the special game. In the gaming machine 10, the variation time of the special game is determined by the determination of the variation pattern. The variation pattern may also be information that can identify some or all of the performance content of the performance game that takes place from the start of the special game until the end of the special game. Examples of variation patterns include a jackpot variation pattern and a losing variation pattern. The jackpot variation pattern is associated with a performance content of the performance game that, after a reach performance, ultimately displays a confirmed combination of symbols for a jackpot. The losing variation patterns include a losing variation pattern without a reach and a losing variation pattern with a reach. In the losing spin pattern without a reach, the corresponding gameplay involves displaying a losing combination of symbols without going through a reach animation. In the losing spin pattern with a reach, the corresponding gameplay involves displaying a losing combination of symbols after going through a reach animation.

[0052] There are two types of variation patterns: those that can be determined when the base state is high, and those that can be determined when the base state is low. The variation patterns that can be determined when the base state is high and those that can be determined when the base state is low differ in some or all ways. The variation time set for the variation patterns that can be determined when the base state is high is shorter (or is often shorter) than the variation time set for the variation patterns that can be determined when the base state is low. There are two types of variation patterns: those for the first special game that can be determined when the first special game is played, and those for the second special game that can be determined when the second special game is played. The variation patterns for the first special game and those for the second special game differ in some or all ways.

[0053] The main RWM43 is configured to store various information that can be rewritten as needed during the operation of the gaming machine 10. The information stored by the main RWM43 includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The main board 40 is configured to generate random numbers. These random numbers may be hardware random numbers or software random numbers. The main CPU 41 is configured to receive an operation signal to be output when the clear switch 45 is operated to the ON position.

[0054] Various sensors SE1 to SE5 are connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 41 is configured to receive detection signals output by the various sensors SE1 to SE5 via ports. When a detection signal is received from the open sensor SE5, the main CPU 41 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a door open command) that identifies that a detection signal has been received from the open sensor SE5, that is, that the door member is open, in the output buffer. The control information (control command) stored in the output buffer is output to the sub-board 50 in the next timer interrupt processing. An information display panel 22 is connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 41 can control the display content of the information display panel 22 via a drive circuit. A first actuator A1 and a second actuator A2 are connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 41 can control the operation of the first actuator A1 and the second actuator A2 via a drive circuit.

[0055] Next, the sub-board 50 will be described. The sub-board 50 includes a sub-CPU 51, a sub-ROM 52, and a sub-RWM 53. For example, the sub-CPU 51 performs various processes (for example, processes related to performance) by executing a control program (sub-control program) for the sub-CPU 51. The sub-ROM 52 stores the sub-control program, a lottery table used for the lottery, and judgment values. The sub-ROM 52 stores display performance data that can identify the manner (content) of the display performance. The sub-ROM 52 stores light-emitting performance data that can identify the manner (content) of the light-emitting performance. The sub-ROM 52 stores sound performance data that can identify the manner (content) of the sound performance. The sub-RWM 53 is configured to store various information that can be rewritten as appropriate during the operation of the gaming machine 10. The information stored in the sub-RWM 53 includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The sub-board 50 is configured to generate random numbers. The random numbers may be hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

[0056] The sub-board 50 is connected to a decorative lamp 17, a speaker 18, and a performance display device 25. The sub-CPU 51 can control the decorative lamp 17, speaker 18, and performance display device 25 via a drive circuit. In this embodiment, the sub-CPU 51 controls the performance device, which is the performance execution means among the decorative lamp 17, speaker 18, and performance display device 25, thereby realizing the function of a performance control means that controls the performance execution means. An operation button BT is connected to the sub-board 50. The sub-CPU 51 is configured to receive a detection signal output when the operation button BT is operated via a port. A performance actuator EA is connected to the sub-board 50. The sub-CPU 51 can control the operation of the performance actuator EA via a drive circuit. A home position sensor PS1 is connected to the sub-board 50. The sub-CPU 51 is configured to receive a detection signal output by the home position sensor PS1 via a port. A performance position sensor PS2 is connected to the sub-board 50. The sub-CPU 51 is configured to accept detection signals output by the performance position sensor PS2 via a port.

[0057] Next, we will describe the power supply unit 60. The power supply unit 60 converts the power voltage supplied from an external power source such as a gaming arcade into the power voltage to be supplied to each circuit board 40, 50 and the launcher 70. The power supply unit 60 supplies power to each circuit board 40, 50 and the launcher 70 via power supply lines. The power supply unit 60 has a power switch 61. When the power switch 61 is switched from the off state to the on state, power is supplied to each circuit board 40, 50 and the launcher 70. On the other hand, when the power switch 61 is switched from the on state to the off state, power is cut off to each circuit board 40, 50 and the launcher 70. Cutting off the power supply is equivalent to stopping the power supply.

[0058] The power supply unit 60 includes a backup power supply 62. The backup power supply 62 supplies power to the main RWM 43 even after the power supply has been cut off. The main RWM 43 can retain its stored contents even after the power supply has been cut off, because it receives power from the backup power supply 62. For example, the main RWM 43 may be a non-volatile memory that can retain its stored contents even when the power supply is cut off, and may be configured to retain the stored information even after the power supply has been cut off. The gaming machine 10 also has a backup function. The backup function is a function that internally retains (backs up) various information related to game control even when the power supply from an external power source is cut off, and when the power supply is started, it restores game control based on the various information that has been retained. In this embodiment, the main board 40 has a backup function. For example, the sub-board 50 may have a backup function. The main RWM 43 is an example of a storage means that is capable of storing various information and is configured to retain at least some of the stored information even after the power supply has been cut off.

[0059] Next, we will describe the launch device 70. The launching device 70 has a touch sensor 71. Although not shown in the figures, the launching device 70 includes a ball feeding mechanism, a launching mechanism, and a launching drive circuit. The touch sensor 71 is connected to the launching drive circuit. When the touch sensor 71 is operated, the detection signal output from the touch sensor 71 is output to the launching drive circuit. The detection signal output from the touch sensor 71 when it is operated is also output to the main CPU 41. In other words, the main CPU 41 can input the detection signal output from the touch sensor 71. When the main CPU 41 receives the detection signal output from the touch sensor 71, it stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a handle operation command) that identifies that the detection signal from the touch sensor 71 has been input, that is, that the launch handle 16 has been operated, in its output buffer. Although not shown in the figures, a handle volume is connected to the launching device 70. The launching drive circuit is configured to receive a signal that identifies the amount of operation of the launch handle 16 detected by the handle volume. The handle volume is a variable resistor. The signal that allows for the determination of the amount of movement of the launch handle 16 is the voltage value supplied to the launch drive circuit.

[0060] Here, we will explain the various processes performed in the gaming machine 10. First, we will explain the main power shutdown process that is carried out when the power supply is interrupted. In the main power cut-off process, the main CPU 41 performs backup processing of the main RWM 43. For example, the power supply to the gaming machine 10 may be monitored within the power supply unit 60, and when the power supply to the gaming machine 10 decreases, control information indicating that the power supply to the gaming machine 10 has been cut off may be output to the main CPU 41. This allows the main CPU 41 to understand that the power supply to the gaming machine 10 has been cut off. In the backup process, the main CPU 41 causes the main RWM 43 to store various information stored in the main RWM 43, as well as information such as registers and the stack pointer. This backs up at least some of the information stored in the main RWM 43. For example, the information to be backed up includes the base state flag and the probability state flag, which will be described later. For example, the information to be backed up includes the values ​​of various random numbers (random number information). After that, the main CPU 41 waits until the power supply is cut off.

[0061] Next, we will explain the main power on-up process and the secondary power on-up process that are performed when the power supply is initiated. When the main CPU 41 is started by the startup process (boot process) that accompanies the start of power supply, it first executes the main power-on process. In the main power-on process, whether or not the main RWM 43 is initialized (RWM clear) is controlled according to the operation state of the clear switch 45 at the start of power supply. If the clear switch 45 is operated to the ON position, the main CPU 41 executes an initialization process that initializes at least some of the information stored in the main RWM 43. In the initialization process, the main CPU 41 initializes the game information by storing initial information in the area that stores game information among the various types of information in the main RWM 43's memory area. After completing the initialization process, the main CPU 41 terminates the main power-on process. On the other hand, if the clear switch 45 is in the OFF position, the main CPU 41 does not execute the initialization process, but returns based on the backed-up contents of the main RWM 43's memory and terminates the main power-on process. If the initialization process is executed, neither special games nor normal games are being executed or held, and the system returns to a state that is neither a jackpot game nor a normal jackpot game. In the gaming machine 10, if the initialization process is performed, the game state returns to the normal state. On the other hand, if the initialization process is not performed, the system returns to the state it was in when the power supply was cut off, based on the backed-up game information.

[0062] When the main CPU 41 finishes the main power-on process, it stores predetermined control commands in the output buffer of the sub-board 50 based on the game information stored in the main RWM 43. Specifically, if initialization processing is performed during the main power-on process, the main CPU 41 stores control information that identifies that initialization processing has been performed (hereinafter referred to as initialization commands) in the output buffer. On the other hand, if initialization processing is not performed during the main power-on process, the main CPU 41 stores control information that identifies that the system will return to the state it was in when the power supply was cut off (hereinafter referred to as return commands) in the output buffer. For example, if the main CPU 41 returns to the state during a jackpot game upon the start of power supply, it stores a return command in the output buffer that identifies that the system will return to the state during a jackpot game.

[0063] When the sub-CPU 51 is started by the startup process (boot process) that accompanies the start of power supply, it waits until it receives an initialization command or a recovery command from the main CPU 41. If an initialization command or a recovery command is received, the sub-CPU 51 executes the sub-power-on process. In the sub-power-on process, the presence or absence of initialization (RWM clearing) of the sub-RWM 53 is controlled depending on whether an initialization command or a recovery command was received. Specifically, if an initialization command is received, the sub-CPU 51 initializes at least some of the information stored in the sub-RWM 53. For example, the sub-CPU 51 initializes the game information by storing initial information in the area that stores game information among the various types of information in the storage area of ​​the sub-RWM 53, thereby initializing at least some of the information stored in the sub-RWM 53. Furthermore, if an initialization command is received, the sub-CPU 51 controls the speaker 18 so that an initialization notification sound is output that indicates that the initialization process has been executed. If an initialization notification sound is output, the display device 25 may display an image that indicates that the initialization process has been executed. Subsequently, the sub-CPU 51 terminates the sub-power-on process. On the other hand, if a restore command is entered, the sub-CPU 51 restores itself based on the control information output from the main CPU 41 and terminates the sub-power-on process. If an initialization command is entered, the system can return to a state where no performance game is running, and neither the performance during a big win nor the performance during a regular win is being executed. On the other hand, if a restore command is entered, the system can return to the state it was in when the power supply was cut off.

[0064] Next, we will explain the various processes that the main CPU 41 executes based on the main control program. The main CPU 41 performs timer interrupt processing, such as special symbol input processing and special symbol start processing, at predetermined control cycles (for example, 4ms).

[0065] First, let's explain the special symbol input processing performed by the main CPU 41. In the special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 performs the first special symbol input process. After completing the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 performs the second special symbol input process. After completing the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 terminates the special symbol input process.

[0066] In the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 determines whether a game ball has entered the first start opening 26 based on whether it has received a detection signal from the first start sensor SE1 (hereinafter referred to as the first input determination). If the result of the first input determination is negative, the main CPU 41 terminates the first special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the result of the first input determination is positive, the main CPU 41 determines whether the number of first special reserved balls stored in the main RWM 43 is less than the upper limit (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved ball determination). If the result of the first reserved ball determination is negative, the main CPU 41 terminates the first special symbol input process. If the result of the first reserved ball determination is positive, the main CPU 41 adds 1 to the number of first special reserved balls and updates it. The main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated number of first special reserved balls. The main CPU 41 stores control information that can identify the updated number of first special reserved balls (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved ball command) in the output buffer.

[0067] Furthermore, if the result of the first hold judgment is positive, the main CPU 41 acquires the random numbers generated within the main board 40 and stores the random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main RWM 43. At this time, the main CPU 41 stores the information in a way that makes it possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game and the order in which the random number information is stored. In this embodiment, the execution of the first special game is held in a hold by storing the random number information for the first special game in the main RWM 43. The random number information may be the acquired random numbers themselves, or it may be information obtained by processing the random numbers using a predetermined method. For example, the random numbers may be random numbers used for the jackpot lottery, random numbers used for determining special symbols, random numbers used for determining the variation pattern, random numbers used for the performance lottery, etc. After that, the main CPU 41 terminates the first special symbol input process.

[0068] In the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 determines whether a game ball has entered the second start opening 27 based on whether it has received a detection signal from the second start sensor SE2 (hereinafter referred to as the second input determination). If the result of the second input determination is negative, the main CPU 41 terminates the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the result of the second input determination is positive, the main CPU 41 determines whether the number of second special reserved balls stored in the main RWM 43 is less than the upper limit (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved ball determination). If the result of the second reserved ball determination is negative, the main CPU 41 terminates the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the result of the second reserved ball determination is positive, the main CPU 41 adds 1 to the number of second special reserved balls and updates it. The main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated number of second special reserved balls. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that can identify the updated number of second special reserved balls (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved ball command) in the output buffer. Furthermore, if the result of the second hold judgment is positive, the main CPU 41 acquires the random numbers generated within the main board 40, stores the random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main RWM 43, and terminates the special symbol input process. At this time, the main CPU 41 stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is for the second special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, the execution of the second special game is suspended by storing the random number information for the second special game in the main RWM 43. After that, the main CPU 41 terminates the second special symbol input process.

[0069] Next, we will explain the special symbol start process performed by the main CPU 41. In the special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 determines whether the game is not in a winning state and whether a special game is in progress. If the game is in a winning state or a special game is in progress, the main CPU 41 terminates the special symbol start process. On the other hand, if the game is not in a winning state and no special game is in progress, the main CPU 41 performs a second reserve determination to determine if the second special reserve count is 1 or greater. If the second reserve determination determines that the second special reserve count is 1 or greater, the main CPU 41 performs the second special symbol start process related to the execution of the second special game. After performing the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 terminates the special symbol start process. If the second reserve determination determines that the second special reserve count is not 1 or greater, the main CPU 41 performs a first reserve determination to determine if the first special reserve count is 1 or greater. If the first reserve determination determines that the first special reserve count is not 1 or greater, the main CPU 41 terminates the special symbol start process. If the first reserve determination determines that the number of first special reserves is 1 or more, the main CPU 41 performs the first special symbol start process related to the execution of the first special game. After performing the first special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 terminates the special symbol start process.

[0070] Incidentally, if the second reserve determination determines that the second special reserve count is not 1 or greater, and the first reserve determination determines that the first special reserve count is not 1 or greater, the main CPU 41 stores control information that can identify the standby state (hereinafter referred to as a standby command) in the output buffer. However, the main CPU 41 does not store the standby command in the output buffer again, even if the first reserve determination determines that the first special reserve count is not 1 or greater, and the second reserve determination determines that the second special reserve count is not 1 or greater, until the special game is executed after the standby command is stored in the output buffer. In this embodiment, the standby state can be said to be a situation in which the special game is not being executed, that is, a situation in which the special game is not being executed. Also, the standby state can be said to be a situation in which a jackpot game has not been awarded, that is, a situation in which a jackpot game is not being played.

[0071] Now, let's explain the process for starting the first special symbol. In the process of starting the first special symbol, the main CPU 41 decrements the first special reserve number stored in the main RWM 43 by 1 and updates it. The main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated first special reserve number is displayed. The main CPU 41 also stores a first reserve number command that can identify the updated first special reserve number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 41 reads the first random number information stored from the main RWM 43 among the random number information for the first special game. After reading the first random number information, the main CPU 41 erases the first stored random number information from the main RWM 43. Then, the main CPU 41 performs the jackpot lottery process.

[0072] In the jackpot lottery process, the main CPU 41 performs a jackpot lottery based on the value of the winning lottery random number that can be identified from the read random number information and the jackpot determination value stored in the main ROM 42. At this time, if the main CPU 41 is in a probability variation state, it performs a jackpot lottery using the common jackpot determination value and the high probability jackpot determination value, while if it is not in a probability variation state, it performs a jackpot lottery using the common jackpot determination value. The main CPU 41 determines whether the value of the winning lottery random number matches the jackpot determination value and performs a jackpot lottery. In this embodiment, if the value of the winning lottery random number matches the jackpot determination value, it is considered that the jackpot lottery has been won, and if the value of the winning lottery random number matches the jackpot determination value, it is considered that the jackpot lottery has not been won. If the jackpot lottery is won, the main CPU 41 terminates the jackpot lottery process and performs the jackpot game process. On the other hand, if the jackpot lottery is unsuccessful, the main CPU 41 terminates the jackpot lottery process and performs the losing game process.

[0073] In the jackpot game processing during the first special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 determines the jackpot symbol based on the value of the symbol random number that can be identified from the read random number information. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 determines either the first jackpot symbol or the second jackpot symbol based on the value of the symbol random number. In the jackpot game processing, the main CPU 41 determines the jackpot variation pattern based on the value of the variation pattern random number that can be identified from the read random number information. For example, the main CPU 41 refers to information that can identify whether the game state is a low base state or a high base state (hereinafter referred to as the base state flag) among the information that can identify the game state stored in the main RWM 43. Then, for example, the main CPU 41 determines the jackpot variation pattern according to whether it is a low base state or a high base state. After determining the special symbols and variation patterns, the main CPU 41 terminates the jackpot game processing and stores control information that can identify the determined special symbols (hereinafter referred to as symbol commands) and control information that can identify the determined variation patterns (hereinafter referred to as variation pattern commands) in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 41 terminates the first special symbol start processing.

[0074] In the losing game processing during the first special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 determines the losing symbol. In the losing game processing, the main CPU 41 determines the losing variation pattern based on the value of the variation pattern random number that can be identified from the read random number information. In the losing game processing, the main CPU 41 performs a performance lottery based on the value of the performance lottery random number that can be identified from the read random number information and the performance judgment value stored in the main ROM 42. The main CPU 41 determines that the performance lottery has been won if the value of the performance lottery random number and the performance judgment value match, and that the performance lottery has not been won (did not win) if the value of the performance lottery random number and the performance judgment value do not match. Based on the value of the variation pattern random number that can be identified from the read random number information, the main CPU 41 determines the losing variation pattern with a reach if the performance lottery has been won, and determines the losing variation pattern without a reach if the performance lottery has not been won. For example, the main CPU 41 refers to the base state flag and determines the losing variation pattern depending on whether it is a low base state or a high base state. After determining the special symbols and variation patterns, the main CPU 41 terminates the losing game processing and stores the symbol commands and variation pattern commands in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 41 terminates the first special symbol start processing.

[0075] Next, we will explain the process for starting the second special symbol. In the process of starting the second special symbol, the main CPU 41 decrements the second special reserve number stored in the main RWM 43 by 1 and updates it. The main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated second special reserve number is displayed. The main CPU 41 also stores a second reserve number command that can identify the updated second special reserve number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 41 reads the first random number information stored from the main RWM 43 for the second special game. After reading the first random number information, the main CPU 41 erases the first stored random number information from the main RWM 43. Then, the main CPU 41 performs the jackpot lottery process.

[0076] In the jackpot lottery process during the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 performs the same control as in the jackpot lottery process during the first special symbol start process. If the jackpot lottery is won during the jackpot lottery process during the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 terminates the jackpot lottery process and performs the jackpot game process. On the other hand, if the jackpot lottery is not won during the jackpot lottery process during the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 terminates the jackpot lottery process and performs the losing game process.

[0077] In the jackpot game processing during the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 performs the same control as in the jackpot game processing during the first special symbol start processing described above. After determining the special symbols and variation patterns in the jackpot game processing during the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 terminates the jackpot game processing and stores the symbol command and variation pattern command in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 41 terminates the second special symbol start processing.

[0078] In the losing game processing during the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 performs the same control as in the losing game processing during the first special symbol start processing described above. After determining the special symbol and variation pattern during the losing game processing during the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 terminates the losing game processing and stores the symbol command and variation pattern command in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 41 terminates the second special symbol start processing. In the following explanation, the variation pattern command stored in the output buffer during the first special symbol start processing may be referred to as the first variation pattern command, and the variation pattern command stored in the output buffer during the second special symbol start processing may be referred to as the second variation pattern command.

[0079] As described above, in the gaming machine 10, a jackpot lottery may be held when executing a special game. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 performs the jackpot lottery process, thereby realizing the function of a jackpot lottery means that performs the jackpot lottery. Thus, in this embodiment, the main CPU 41 realizes the function of a jackpot lottery means that performs the jackpot lottery. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, the main CPU 41 determines the variation pattern, thereby determining the variation time of the special game. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 realizes the function of a game time determination means that determines the variation time of the variation game.

[0080] When the special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 41 performs a process separate from the special symbol start process to execute the special game. Specifically, the main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 so that the special game is started. When the first special game is being executed, the main CPU 41 controls the light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display unit 22a to light up in a lighting pattern corresponding to the execution of the first special game. Similarly, when the second special game is being executed, the main CPU 41 controls the light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display unit 22b to light up in a lighting pattern corresponding to the execution of the second special game. The main CPU 41 also measures the variation time associated with the variation pattern determined in the special symbol start process.

[0081] Then, when the variation time associated with the variation pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 so that the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process is displayed as a confirmed stop. When the variation time associated with the variation pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 41 stores the game end command in the output buffer. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 controls the execution of the special game, thereby realizing the function of a variation game control means for executing a variation game.

[0082] Next, we will explain the jackpot processing performed by the main CPU 41. The main CPU 41 identifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbols determined in the special symbol start process. Then, after the jackpot special game ends, the main CPU 41 performs the jackpot process and assigns the identified jackpot game. Specifically, the main CPU 41 performs the jackpot process after the jackpot special game has ended and the interval between reel spins has elapsed. By performing the jackpot process, the main CPU 41 assigns the jackpot game. In this way, if the game machine 10 wins a jackpot in the jackpot lottery, it is possible to assign the jackpot game after the special game in which the jackpot was won has ended. In other words, the game machine 10 is configured so that if a jackpot is won, the jackpot game is assigned after the special game has ended.

[0083] In the jackpot processing, the main CPU 41 stores an opening command in the output buffer. After storing the opening command in the output buffer, the main CPU 41 measures the opening time. Once the opening time has elapsed, the main CPU 41 performs processing to execute the round game. The main CPU 41 also controls the second actuator A2 to open the large prize slot 29 and start the round game. After starting the round game, when the first or second open game termination condition is met, the main CPU 41 controls the second actuator A2 to close the large prize slot 29 and end the round game. The main CPU 41 repeatedly performs the processing to execute the round game until the maximum number of round games specified for the jackpot game have finished. Each time a round game is started, the main CPU 41 stores a round command in the output buffer. When the final round game is finished, the main CPU 41 stores an ending command in the output buffer. When the main CPU 41 stores the ending command in the output buffer, it starts timing the ending. Once the ending time has elapsed, the main CPU 41 terminates the jackpot processing.

[0084] Next, the game state processing performed by the main CPU 41 will be described. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 performs game state processing, thereby realizing the function of a game state control means for controlling the game state.

[0085] When the main CPU 41 controls the game to a non-probability state, it sets a value that identifies the control to a non-probability state in the probability state flag. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that identifies the game to be in a non-probability state (hereinafter referred to as a low probability state command) in the output buffer. Similarly, when the main CPU 41 controls the game to a probability state, it sets a value that identifies the control to a probability state in the probability state flag. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that identifies the game to be in a probability state (hereinafter referred to as a high probability state command) in the output buffer. For example, after the first jackpot game ends, the main CPU 41 sets a value that identifies the control to a probability state in the probability state flag. On the other hand, after the second jackpot game ends, the main CPU 41 sets a value that identifies the control to a non-probability state in the probability state flag.

[0086] When the main CPU 41 controls the game to a low base state, it sets a value that identifies the game to be controlled to a low base state in the base state flag stored in the main RWM 43. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that identifies the game to be in a low base state (hereinafter referred to as a low base state command) in the output buffer. Incidentally, when a jackpot is awarded, the main CPU 41 sets a value that identifies the game to be controlled to a low base state in the base state flag. Furthermore, the main CPU 41 stores the low base state command in the output buffer.

[0087] When the main CPU 41 controls to a high base state, it sets a value that allows it to identify that the game will be controlled to a high base state after the jackpot game ends as the base state flag. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that allows it to identify that the game is in a high base state (hereinafter referred to as the high base state command) in the output buffer. Furthermore, the main CPU 41 updates information that allows it to identify the remaining number of special games to be controlled to a high base state after the jackpot game ends (hereinafter referred to as the number of games). At this time, the main CPU 41 updates the number of games that allows it to identify that the game will be controlled to a high base state after the first jackpot game ends until the next jackpot game is awarded. On the other hand, after the second jackpot game ends, the main CPU 41 updates the number of games that allows it to identify 100 games. After the second jackpot game ends, the main CPU 41 subtracts 1 from the number of games that can be identified Incidentally, if a jackpot is awarded, the main CPU 41 updates the count, which can be determined from the count information, to 0 and initializes. When the main CPU 41 updates the count information, it stores control information (hereinafter referred to as the count command) that can determine the number of times that can be determined from the updated count information in the output buffer.

[0088] In the gaming machine 10, the game is controlled to the normal state by setting a value that can identify control to a low base state in the base state flag and a value that can identify control to a low probability state in the probability state flag. In other words, the main CPU 41 can control the game to the normal state by setting a value that can identify control to a low base state in the base state flag and a value that can identify control to a low probability state in the probability state flag. In this way, the main CPU 41 can control game states, including the normal state. Incidentally, when a jackpot game is awarded, the main CPU 41 sets a value that can identify control to a non-probability state in the probability state flag and a value that can identify control to a low base state in the base state flag. Furthermore, the main CPU 41 stores the low probability state command in the output buffer and the low base state command in the output buffer.

[0089] Next, we will explain the normal symbol input processing performed by the main CPU 41. In the normal symbol input process, the main CPU 41 determines whether a game ball has passed through gate 33 based on whether it has received a detection signal from gate sensor SE4. If the game ball has not passed through gate 33, the main CPU 41 terminates the normal symbol input process. On the other hand, if the game ball has passed through gate 33, the main CPU 41 determines whether the normal reserve number stored in the main RWM 43 is less than the upper limit. If the normal reserve number is not less than the upper limit, the main CPU 41 terminates the normal symbol input process. If the normal reserve number is less than the upper limit, the main CPU 41 updates the normal reserve number stored in the main RWM 43 by adding 1. The main CPU 41 also controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated normal reserve number. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that can identify the updated normal reserve number (hereinafter referred to as the normal reserve number command) in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 41 obtains a normal winning lottery random number and stores random number information based on the obtained random number in the main RWM 43. In this case, the main CPU 41 stores the random number information so that it is normal game random number information and the storage order of the random number information can be identified. After that, the main CPU 41 terminates the normal symbol input process.

[0090] Next, we will explain the normal symbol start process performed by the main CPU 41. In the normal symbol start process, the main CPU 41 determines whether the conditions for executing a normal game are met. The main CPU 41 makes a positive determination if it is neither in a normal win game nor in the execution of a normal game, and a negative determination if it is in a normal win game or in the execution of a normal game. If the conditions for executing a normal game are not met, the main CPU 41 terminates the normal symbol start process. On the other hand, if the conditions for executing a normal game are met, the main CPU 41 determines whether the normal reserve count stored in the main RWM 43 is 1 or more. If the normal reserve count is not 1 or more, the main CPU 41 terminates the normal symbol start process. If the normal reserve count is 1 or more, the main CPU 41 decrements the normal reserve count stored in the main RWM 43 by 1 and updates it. Furthermore, the main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated normal reserve count is displayed. The main CPU 41 also stores a normal reserve count command that can specify the updated normal reserve count in the output buffer.

[0091] Next, the main CPU 41 reads the first random number information stored from the main RWM 43 for the normal game. After reading the first random number information, the main CPU 41 erases the first stored random number information from the main RWM 43. Subsequently, the main CPU 41 determines whether a normal win has been achieved based on the read random number information for the normal game and the normal win determination value stored in the main ROM 42. This process corresponds to the normal win lottery (normal win determination) to determine whether or not a normal win has been achieved. For example, if the main CPU 41 is in a high base state, it performs the normal win lottery using the winning probability for the high base state. If the main CPU 41 is in a low base state, it performs the normal win lottery using the winning probability for the low base state. If a normal win is achieved, the main CPU 41 determines the normal win symbol to be derived in the normal game and the variation time of the normal game. If a regular win is not achieved, the main CPU 41 determines the regular losing symbols to be derived in the regular game and the variation time of the regular game. For example, the main CPU 41 determines the variation time of the regular game depending on whether it is in a low base state or a high base state. After that, the main CPU 41 terminates the regular symbol start process.

[0092] The main CPU 41 then executes the normal game by performing a process separate from the normal symbol start process. Specifically, the main CPU 41 starts the normal game and controls the information display panel 22 so that when the variation time determined in the normal symbol start process has elapsed, the normal symbols determined in the normal symbol start process are displayed as confirmed stop symbols. In addition, when the main CPU 41 starts the execution of the normal game, it stores control information that identifies the start of the normal game in the output buffer.

[0093] Next, we will explain the normal processing performed by the main CPU 41. After a normal game with a normal win ends, the main CPU 41 performs normal win processing. In normal win processing, the main CPU 41 starts control to generate a normal win game depending on whether it is in an open extension state or a non-open extension state. Therefore, by performing normal win processing, the main CPU 41 grants a normal win. For example, in normal win processing, if the main CPU 41 is in a high base state, the main CPU 41 controls the first actuator A1 so that the second start port 27 is opened in the opening mode for the high base state. If the main CPU 41 is in a low base state, the main CPU 41 controls the first actuator A1 so that the second start port 27 is opened in the opening mode for the low base state. Compared to the opening mode for the low base state, the opening mode for the high base state results in the second start port 27 being opened more times in a single normal win game, and the total time the second start port 27 is open is longer. Therefore, when the second start opening 27 is opened in the opening mode when the base is high, it is easier to get the game balls into the second start opening 27 compared to when the second start opening 27 is opened in the opening mode when the base is low. In other words, when the base is high, there is a greater advantage in terms of getting the game balls into the second start opening 27 compared to when the base is low.

[0094] Next, we will explain the prize ball processing performed by the main CPU 41. When a detection signal is received from the first start sensor SE1, the main CPU 41 controls the system so that a predetermined number of prize balls are dispensed from the first start opening 26. When a detection signal is received from the second start sensor SE2, the main CPU 41 controls the system so that a predetermined number of prize balls are dispensed from the second start opening 27. When a detection signal is received from the count sensor SE3, the main CPU 41 controls the system so that a predetermined number of prize balls are dispensed from the large prize opening 29. In this way, the main CPU 41 controls the system so that a number of game balls corresponding to the prize opening into which the game balls entered are dispensed as prize balls. In this embodiment, prize balls are awarded by the main CPU 41 performing prize ball processing and controlling the system so that game balls are dispensed as prize balls. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 controls the system so that game balls are dispensed as prize balls, thereby realizing the function of a prize ball control means that controls the dispensing of prize balls.

[0095] Next, we will explain the various processes that the sub-CPU 51 executes based on the sub-control program. When the sub-CPU 51 receives a low probability state command, it sets the sub-probability state flag stored in the sub-RWM 53 to a value that identifies it as a non-probability state. When the sub-CPU 51 receives a high probability state command, it sets the sub-probability state flag stored in the sub-RWM 53 to a value that identifies it as a probability state. Also, when the sub-CPU 51 receives a low base state command, it sets the sub-base state flag stored in the sub-RWM 53 to a value that identifies it as a low base state. When the sub-CPU 51 receives a high base state command, it sets the sub-base state flag to a value that identifies it as a high base state. In addition, when the sub-CPU 51 receives a count command, it updates the information stored in the sub-RWM 53 (hereinafter referred to as sub-count information) so that it can identify the remaining number of special games that control the game to a high base state after the end of a jackpot game, which can be identified from the command.

[0096] The sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, and 25 so that the performance game and the performances associated with the performance game are executed. Specifically, when a variable pattern command is input, the sub-CPU 51 controls the execution of the performance game. Furthermore, when executing performances associated with the performance game, the sub-CPU 51 may control the performance actuator EA to operate the movable body 38, in addition to the various performance devices 17, 18, and 25.

[0097] In controlling the execution of the performance game, the sub-CPU 51 determines the symbol combinations of performance symbols to be ultimately derived in the performance game, based on the variation pattern command and the symbol command. If the sub-CPU 51 can identify the winning symbols from the symbol command, it determines the winning performance symbol combination. If the sub-CPU 51 can identify the losing symbols from the symbol command, it determines the losing performance symbol combination. If the sub-CPU 51 is to execute a reach performance, it determines the losing performance symbol combination including the reach.

[0098] In controlling the execution of the performance game, the sub-CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 to start the performance game by causing the performance symbols to change and display in response to the input of a variation pattern command. Based on the variation pattern that can be identified from the variation pattern command, the sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, and 25 so that various performances are executed. The sub-CPU 51 also pauses the display of the determined performance symbols at a predetermined timing. Subsequently, the sub-CPU 51 pauses the display of the performance symbol combination in response to the input of a game end command. Alternatively, the sub-CPU 51 may measure the variation time that can be identified from the variation pattern, regardless of the game end command, and pause the display of the performance symbol combination in response to the elapsed time. In this case, the game end command may be omitted.

[0099] When a jackpot game is awarded, the sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, and 25 so that a jackpot game performance is displayed. Specifically, when an opening command is input, the sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, and 25 so that an opening performance is displayed. When a round command is input, the sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, and 25 so that a round performance is displayed. When an ending command is input, the sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, and 25 so that an ending performance is displayed.

[0100] The sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various display devices 17, 18, and 25 so that an error notification display capable of notifying an opening error is executed when a door opening command is entered, if an error notification display capable of notifying an opening error is not being executed. In this embodiment, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the error notification display is executed when the text information "The door is open" is displayed. Furthermore, the sub-CPU 51 controls the speaker 18 so that the error notification display is executed when the audio "The door is open" is output. In addition, if a door opening command is not entered while the error notification display is being executed, the sub-CPU 51 terminates the error notification display if a predetermined allowable time (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed without a door opening command being entered.

[0101] The sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the symbol display standby animation is executed when a standby command is input. The sub-CPU 51 performs control related to the symbol display standby animation by controlling the display device 25 so that the symbol display standby animation is executed. If a variation pattern command is input while the symbol display standby animation is being executed, the sub-CPU 51 terminates the execution of the symbol display standby animation. In this case, the display device 25 terminates the symbol display standby animation and starts the animation game. Thus, in the gaming machine 10, if the execution of a special game is started while the symbol display standby animation is being executed, the symbol display standby animation is terminated.

[0102] Furthermore, once the first waiting time has elapsed since the start of the pattern display waiting animation, the sub-CPU 51 controls the animation display device 25 so that the logo animation is executed. The sub-CPU 51 performs control related to the logo animation by controlling the animation display device 25 so that the logo animation is executed. If a variation pattern command is entered while the logo animation is being executed, the sub-CPU 51 terminates the execution of the logo animation. In this case, the animation display device 25 terminates the logo animation and starts the logo animation game. Thus, in the gaming machine 10, if the execution of a special game is started while the logo animation is being executed, the logo animation is terminated.

[0103] Furthermore, once the second waiting period has elapsed since the start of the logo animation, the sub-CPU 51 controls the animation display device 25 so that the video standby animation is executed. The sub-CPU 51 executes control related to the video standby animation by controlling the animation display device 25 so that the video standby animation is executed. If a variation pattern command is entered while the video standby animation is being executed, the sub-CPU 51 terminates the execution of the video standby animation. In this case, the animation display device 25 terminates the video standby animation and starts the animation game. Thus, in the gaming machine 10, if the execution of a special game is started while the video standby animation is being executed, the video standby animation is terminated. Furthermore, once the third waiting period has elapsed since the start of the video standby animation, the sub-CPU 51 again executes control related to the symbol display standby animation. When in standby mode, the sub-CPU 51 repeatedly executes control related to the symbol display standby animation, control related to the logo animation, and control related to the video standby animation in sequence.

[0104] In this embodiment, the sub-CPU 51 controls the decorative lamp 17 as a light-emitting means, thereby realizing the function of a light-emitting control means capable of controlling the light-emitting means. In this embodiment, the sub-CPU 51 controls the speaker 18 as a sound output means, thereby realizing the function of a sound output control means capable of controlling the sound output means. In this embodiment, the sub-CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 as a display means, thereby realizing the function of a display control means capable of controlling the display means.

[0105] When power is supplied to the gaming machine 10, it is controlled to an operation confirmation mode in which the operation of the movable body 38 can be confirmed. In the operation confirmation mode, the operation of the movable body 38 can be confirmed by changing its position between the original position 38a and the performance position 38b. In the operation confirmation mode, when the operation button BT is operated while the movable body 38 is in the original position 38a, the movable body 38 moves to the performance position 38b, and the position of the movable body 38 changes to the performance position 38b. On the other hand, in the operation confirmation mode, when the operation button BT is operated while the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the movable body 38 moves to the original position 38a, and the position of the movable body 38 changes to the original position 38a. The operation confirmation mode ends when the termination conditions for the operation confirmation mode are met. The termination conditions for the operation confirmation mode include a termination condition that is met when the execution of a special game begins. The termination conditions for the operation confirmation mode also include a termination condition that is met when the door member is closed. Furthermore, the termination conditions for the operation confirmation mode include a termination condition that is met when the launch handle 16 is operated.

[0106] As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), when in operation confirmation mode, the performance display device 25 displays the text information "Operation Confirmation Mode" which identifies that it is in operation confirmation mode. Furthermore, when in operation confirmation mode, the performance display device 25 displays the text information "You can change the position of the movable part by operating the operation buttons" which identifies that the position of the movable part 38 can be changed by operating the operation buttons. As shown in Figure 4(a), in this embodiment, when in operation confirmation mode and the position of the movable part 38 is at its original position 38a, this corresponds to the first state. In the following description, when in operation confirmation mode and the position of the movable part 38 is at its original position 38a, this may be referred to as "when the position of the movable part 38 is at its original position 38a in operation confirmation mode" or "when it is in the first state". Also, as shown in Figure 4(b), in this embodiment, when in operation confirmation mode and the position of the movable part 38 is at the performance position 38b, this corresponds to the second state. In the following explanation, when the operation confirmation mode is active and the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b, this may be referred to as "when the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b in operation confirmation mode" or "when the second state is active." As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), when the operation confirmation mode is active and the door member is open, an error notification performance is executed.

[0107] As mentioned above, in the gaming machine 10, when the operation button BT is operated while in the first state, the position of the movable body 38 is changed to the performance position 38b, and the machine transitions to the second state. In other words, in this embodiment, the machine can transition to the second state by operating the operation button BT, which is a predetermined operation means. Also, as mentioned above, in the gaming machine 10, when the operation button BT is operated while in the second state, the position of the movable body 38 is changed to the original position 38a, and the machine transitions to the first state. In other words, in this embodiment, the machine can transition to the first state by operating the operation button BT, which is a predetermined operation means.

[0108] As shown in Figure 4(a), when in the first state, the display device 25 displays a manufacturer image SG. The manufacturer image SG is an image containing text information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine 10. The manufacturer image SG may also be an image of a logo mark that can identify the manufacturer. The manufacturer image SG corresponds to manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine. Therefore, in this embodiment, the display device 25 corresponds to a manufacturer information unit that can display manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine. The manufacturer image SG includes a first manufacturer image SG1 and a second manufacturer image SG2. The first manufacturer image SG1 is smaller than the second manufacturer image SG2. That is, the second manufacturer image SG2 is larger than the first manufacturer image SG1. In this embodiment, the first manufacturer image SG1 corresponds to the first manufacturer information. And in this embodiment, the display device 25 corresponds to a first manufacturer information unit that can display the first manufacturer information. Also, in this embodiment, the second manufacturer image SG2 corresponds to the second manufacturer information. In this embodiment, the display device 25 corresponds to a second manufacturer information unit capable of displaying second manufacturer information.

[0109] The first manufacturer image SG1 is displayed in the upper left display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25. The display area on which the first manufacturer image SG1 is displayed can also be considered as the first manufacturer information unit. The second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25. Specifically, the second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed in the display area on the back of the movable body 38, which is located at its original position 38a, when viewed from the front. In Figure 4(a), for explanatory purposes, the second manufacturer image SG2 is shown with a dashed line, but when viewed from the front, the movable body 38, which is located at its original position 38a, is on the player side of the second manufacturer image SG2, so the second manufacturer image SG2 displayed on the performance display device 25 cannot be seen when viewed from the front. In other words, when in the first state, the second manufacturer image SG2 cannot be seen when viewed from the front. However, even in the first state, the second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed on the performance display device 25. Thus, in the first state, the second manufacturer information is not visible from the front. The area where the second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed can also be considered as the second manufacturer information section. However, in the first state, the first manufacturer image SG1 displayed in the upper left display area of ​​the display area 25r of the display device 25 is visible from the front.

[0110] Furthermore, when in the first state, the display device 25 displays a brand image BG. The brand image BG is an image containing text information that can identify the brand of the gaming machine 10. The brand image BG may also be an image of a logo mark that can identify the brand. The brand image BG corresponds to brand information. The brand image BG differs from the manufacturer image SG in at least part of it. In other words, the brand information differs from the manufacturer information in at least part of it. In this embodiment, the display device 25 corresponds to a brand information unit that can display brand information.

[0111] For example, a brand may be a group company to which the manufacturer belongs. A group company is a series of companies with capital relationships, such as a parent company, subsidiaries, and affiliates, and even if there is no capital relationship, if the related parties hold positions that exert influence over management, such as representatives or officers, they are treated as a group company. For example, a brand may be a company that is called the main brand within the group. In contrast, a manufacturer may be a company that is called a sub-brand, distinct from the main brand, within the group. For example, a brand is a brand that can identify the group company and does not necessarily have to be a company name. In contrast, a manufacturer may be the name of a company that manufactures amusement machines.

[0112] The brand image BG includes a first brand image BG1 and a second brand image BG2. The first brand image BG1 is the same size as the second brand image BG2. The first brand image BG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2 may be of different sizes. In this embodiment, the first brand image BG1 corresponds to the first brand information. In this embodiment, the display device 25 corresponds to a first brand information unit capable of displaying the first brand information. In this embodiment, the second brand image BG2 corresponds to the second brand information. In this embodiment, the display device 25 corresponds to a second brand information unit capable of displaying the second brand information.

[0113] The first brand image BG1 is displayed in the lower left display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25. The display area where the first brand image BG1 is displayed can also be considered as the first manufacturer information section. The second brand image BG2 is displayed in the upper right display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25. The area where the second brand image BG2 is displayed can also be considered as the second brand information section. When in the first state, the first brand image BG1 displayed in the lower left display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25 can be seen from the front. When in the first state, the second brand image BG2 displayed in the upper right display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25 can be seen from the front.

[0114] As described above, when in the first state, the display device 25 displays two manufacturer images SG, the first manufacturer image SG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state is two. That is, in this embodiment, if the number of manufacturer information displayed in the first state is the first number, then this first number is "2". Also, when in the first state, the display device 25 displays two brand images BG, the first brand image BG1 and the second brand image BG2. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, the number of brand images BG displayed in the first state is two. That is, in this embodiment, if the number of brand information displayed in the first state is the second number, then this second number is "2". In this embodiment, the first number as the number of manufacturer information displayed in the first state is the same as the second number as the number of brand information displayed in the first state. The first number as the number of manufacturer information displayed in the first state may be different from the second number as the number of brand information displayed in the first state.

[0115] In the gaming machine 10, when in the first state, the first manufacturer image SG1, the first brand image BG1, and the second brand image BG2 are visible from the front. That is, in this embodiment, when in the first state, the manufacturer information, the first brand information, and the second brand information are visible from the front. However, as mentioned above, when in the first state, the second manufacturer image SG2 is not visible from the front. Thus, in the gaming machine 10, when in the first state, the first manufacturer image SG1, the first brand image BG1, and the second brand image BG2 are visible from the front, while the second manufacturer image SG2 is not visible. That is, in this embodiment, when in the first state, both the first manufacturer information and the brand information are visible from the front, while the second manufacturer information is not visible from the front. Thus, when in the first state, there are cases where both the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG are visible from the front. In other words, in this embodiment, when in the first state, both manufacturer information and brand information may be visible simultaneously in a front view.

[0116] As shown in Figure 4(b), in the second state, the manufacturer image SG is displayed on the performance display device 25. In the second state, both the first manufacturer image SG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2 are displayed on the performance display device 25. In the second state, as the position of the movable body 38 moves to the performance position 38b, the second manufacturer image SG2 displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25 becomes visible in a front view. However, in the second state, a smaller first manufacturer image SG1 (shown as a solid line in Figure 4(b)) is displayed on the performance display device 25 than the first manufacturer image SG1 (shown as a dashed line in Figure 4(b)) displayed on the performance display device 25 in the first state. In the second state, the brand image BG is displayed on the performance display device 25. However, in the second state, the first brand image BG1 is not displayed on the performance display device 25. On the other hand, in the second state, the second brand image BG2 is displayed on the performance display device 25.

[0117] Thus, in the second state, the display device 25 displays two manufacturer images SG: the first manufacturer image SG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2. In other words, in this embodiment, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the second state is two. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state is two. That is, in this embodiment, if the number of manufacturer information displayed in the first state is the first number, then the number of manufacturer information displayed in the second state, which is different from the first state, is the first number. Also, in the second state, the display device 25 does not display the first brand image BG1, but displays the second brand image BG2. In other words, in this embodiment, the number of brand image BGs displayed in the second state is one. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, the number of brand image BGs displayed in the first state is two. That is, in this embodiment, if the number of brand information displayed in the first state is the second number, then the number of brand information displayed in the second state, which is different from the first state, is less than the second number. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the number of brand image backgrounds displayed decreases from two. In other words, in this embodiment, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the number of brand information displays decreases from two.

[0118] In the gaming machine 10, when in the second state, the first manufacturer image SG1, the second manufacturer image SG2, and the second brand image BG2 are visible from the front. That is, when in the second state, at least the manufacturer image SG of the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG is visible from the front. In other words, in this embodiment, when in the second state, which is different from the first state, at least the manufacturer information of the manufacturer information and brand information is visible from the front. Also, when in the second state, the second manufacturer image SG2, which was not visible from the front when in the first state, becomes visible. That is, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the second manufacturer image SG2 becomes visible. However, when in the second state, although the first manufacturer image SG1 is displayed on the display device 25 as in the first state, the first manufacturer image SG1 is displayed smaller than when in the first state. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the size of the first manufacturer image SG1 displayed becomes smaller, reducing the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1.

[0119] In the gaming machine 10, the first brand image BG1 is not displayed when in the second state. Therefore, when in the second state, the first brand image BG1 cannot be seen even when viewed from the front. In other words, the first brand image BG1, which was visible when viewed from the front in the first state, becomes invisible when viewed from the front when transitioning to the second state, resulting in reduced visibility. Thus, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the visibility of the first brand image BG1 in a front view decreases compared to when in the first state. That is to say, in this embodiment, when transitioning from the first state to a second state which is different from the first state, the visibility of the first brand information in a front view decreases compared to when in the first state. When the game transitions to the second state while the first brand image BG1 and the second brand image BG2 are displayed on the display device 25 in the first state, making the brand image BG visible from the front, the second brand image BG2 remains visible as it continues to be displayed, but the first brand image BG1 is not displayed and becomes invisible. Thus, in the game machine 10, when the game transitions to the second state while the first brand image BG1 and the second brand image BG2 are displayed on the display device 25 in the first state, making the brand image BG visible from the front, the visibility of the brand image BG from the front decreases. In other words, in this embodiment, when the game transitions to the second state while the brand information is visible from the front in the first state, the visibility of the brand information from the front decreases.

[0120] As described above, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the second manufacturer image SG2 becomes visible. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1 in a front view decreases compared to when in the first state. Furthermore, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view decreases compared to when in the first state. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the second manufacturer image SG2 becomes visible, but the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1 and the brand image BG in a front view decreases compared to when in the first state. That is, in this embodiment, when transitioning from the first state to a second state which is different from the first state, the second manufacturer information becomes visible, but the visibility of the first manufacturer information and brand information in a front view decreases compared to when in the first state.

[0121] Next, we will explain the control related to the operation verification mode. After completing the auxiliary power-on process, the auxiliary CPU 51 controls the system to operation confirmation mode. In operation confirmation mode, the auxiliary CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the text information "Operation Confirmation Mode" is displayed. Furthermore, in operation confirmation mode, the auxiliary CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the text information "You can change the position of the movable part by operating the operation buttons" is displayed. When the auxiliary CPU 51 receives a detection signal from the operation button BT while in the first state, it moves the movable body 38 to the display position 38b and controls the system to the second state. Similarly, when the auxiliary CPU 51 receives a detection signal from the operation button BT while in the second state, it moves the movable body 38 to its original position 38a and controls the system to the first state. Also, when the termination condition for operation confirmation mode is met while in operation confirmation mode, the auxiliary CPU 51 terminates operation confirmation mode. At this time, if the door member is closed and the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b, the sub-CPU 51 moves the movable body 38 back to its original position 38a and then terminates the operation confirmation mode.

[0122] When in the first state, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the first manufacturer image SG1 is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the first manufacturer image SG1 is displayed in the upper left display area of ​​the display area 25r. When in the first state, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r. When in the first state, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the first brand image BG1 is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the first brand image BG1 is displayed in the lower left display area of ​​the display area 25r. When in the first state, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the second brand image BG2 is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the second brand image BG2 is displayed in the upper right display area of ​​the display area 25r.

[0123] When in the second state, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the first manufacturer image SG1 is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that a smaller version of the first manufacturer image SG1 is displayed than when in the first state. The sub-CPU 51 also controls the display device 25 so that the first manufacturer image SG1 is displayed in the upper left display area of ​​the display area 25r. When in the second state, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r. When in the second state, the sub-CPU 51 does not display the first brand image BG1. For example, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the display of the first brand image BG1 is erased. When in the second state, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the second brand image BG2 is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the second brand image BG2 is displayed in the upper right display area of ​​the display area 25r.

[0124] In the gaming machine 10, after the operation confirmation mode has ended, the movable body 38 moves when the door member is opened. For example, if the middle frame 13 is opened and moves while the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, the movable body 38 moves to the performance position 38b. For example, if the front frame 14 is opened and moves while the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, the movable body 38 moves to the performance position 38b.

[0125] As shown in Figure 5(a), in the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is closed, the position of the movable body 38 is the original position 38a. When the front frame 14 is closed, the manufacturer image SG is displayed on the performance display device 25. At this time, the performance display device 25 displays a specific manufacturer image SGx from among the manufacturer images SG. The specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25. Specifically, the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed in the display area on the back side of the movable body 38, which is located in the original position 38a when viewed from the front. In Figure 5(a), for explanatory purposes, the specific manufacturer image SGx is shown with a dashed line, but when viewed from the front, the movable body 38, which is located in the original position 38a, is on the player side of the specific manufacturer image SGx, so the specific manufacturer image SGx displayed on the performance display device 25 cannot be seen when viewed from the front. In other words, when the front frame 14 is closed, the specific manufacturer image SGx cannot be seen when viewed from the front. When the front frame 14 is closed, the brand image BG is displayed on the performance display device 25. At this time, the performance display device 25 displays a specific brand image BGx from among the brand image BG. The specific brand image BGx is displayed in the upper right display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25. Since the movable body 38 is not located on the player side of the specific brand image BGx, the specific brand image BGx displayed on the performance display device 25 can be seen from the front. Thus, in the gaming machine 10, the specific brand image BGx can be seen from the front at least when the position of the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a. That is, in this embodiment, the brand information can be seen from the front at least when the position of the movable part is in the first position.

[0126] As shown in Figures 5(b) and 5(c), in the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is open, the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b. As shown in Figures 5(b) and 5(c), when the front frame 14 is open, an error notification performance is executed. As shown in Figure 5(d), when the front frame 14 is open, the display mode of the performance display device 25 is initially a non-display mode for a first hour (30 seconds in this embodiment). After being in a non-display mode for the first hour, the display mode of the performance display device 25 is reduced display mode for a second hour (10 seconds in this embodiment). Furthermore, after being in a reduced display mode for a second hour, the display mode of the performance display device 25 is reduced display mode for a third hour. After being in a non-display mode for the third hour, the display mode of the performance display device 25 is reduced display mode again for a first hour. Thus, when the front frame 14 is open, the display mode of the performance display device 25 is a sequence of non-display mode for the first hour, a reduced display mode for the second hour, and a non-display mode for the third hour.

[0127] In the gaming machine 10, when a specific condition is met while the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in the reduced display mode, the display mode of the performance display device 25 becomes the non-display mode. At this time, for the period from when it becomes the reduced display mode until the second time has elapsed, the display mode of the performance display device 25 remains the non-display mode without returning to the reduced display mode. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, even if a specific condition is met while the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in the non-display mode, the display mode of the performance display device 25 does not become the reduced display mode. In the gaming machine 10, the specific condition is met when the operation of the launch handle 16 is detected by the touch sensor 71, that is, when the launch handle 16 is operated. Thus, the specific condition can be met triggered by the operation of the launch handle 16 as a specific operating means.

[0128] As shown in Figure 5(b), when the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to the non-display mode, the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed on the performance display device 25. When the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to the non-display mode, the position of the movable body 38 becomes the performance position 38b, so the specific manufacturer image SGx displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25 becomes visible from the front. Thus, in the gaming machine 10, when the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b, the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible from the front. When the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to the non-display mode, the specific brand image BGx is not displayed on the performance display device 25. In other words, when the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to the non-display mode, the specific brand image BGx is not displayed and is not visible. When the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to the non-display mode, only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx. In the gaming machine 10, the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible when the front frame 14 is open. In other words, the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible in a front view at least when the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b. That is, in this embodiment, the manufacturer information is visible in a front view at least when the position of the movable part is the second position.

[0129] As shown in Figure 5(c), when the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to reduced display mode, the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed on the performance display device 25. When the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to reduced display mode, the position of the movable body 38 becomes the performance position 38b, so the specific manufacturer image SGx displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r of the performance display device 25 becomes visible from the front. Thus, in the gaming machine 10, when the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b, the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible from the front. When the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to reduced display mode, the specific brand image BGx is displayed on the performance display device 25. In other words, when the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to reduced display mode, the specific brand image BGx is displayed and the specific brand image BGx is visible. However, when the front frame 14 is open and the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in reduced display mode, a smaller version of the specific brand image BGx (shown as a solid line in Figure 5(c)) is displayed on the performance display device 25 than the version displayed on the performance display device 25 when the front frame 14 is closed (shown as a dashed line in Figure 5(c)). Thus, when the front frame 14 is open and the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b, it may be possible to see both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx. When the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in reduced display mode, both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx can be seen simultaneously in a front view.

[0130] Thus, in the gaming machine 10, when the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b, there are cases where the display mode of the performance display device 25 is a non-display mode and cases where the display mode of the performance display device 25 is a reduced display mode. In other words, when the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b, there are cases where only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx, and cases where both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible in a front view. That is, in this embodiment, when the position of the movable part is the second position, there are cases where only the manufacturer information is visible among the manufacturer information and brand information, and cases where both the manufacturer information and the brand information are visible simultaneously in a front view.

[0131] As mentioned above, in the gaming machine 10, a series of changes in display modes, from a non-display mode for the first hour to a reduced display mode for the second hour, and then to a non-display mode for the third hour, constitutes one display mode switching pattern. In this one display mode switching pattern, the number of times the display mode of the performance display device 25 becomes a reduced display mode, allowing both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx to be simultaneously visible from the front view is "1". In contrast, in this one display mode switching pattern, the number of times the display mode of the performance display device 25 becomes a non-display mode, allowing only the specific manufacturer image SGx to be visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx, is "2". In other words, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the frequency at which only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx is higher than the frequency at which both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are simultaneously visible in a front view when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b. That is, when the movable part is in the second position, the frequency at which only the manufacturer information is visible among the manufacturer information and brand information is higher than the frequency at which both the manufacturer information and brand information are simultaneously visible in a front view when the movable part is in the second position. Furthermore, in one display mode switching pattern, the time during which the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in a non-display state is at least 50 seconds (= 1st hour + 3rd hour). In other words, in one display mode switching pattern, the ratio of the display mode of the performance display device 25 being in a non-display state is at least "50 / 60". In contrast, in a single display mode switching pattern, the time during which the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in the reduced display mode is at most 10 seconds (= second time). In other words, in a single display mode switching pattern, the proportion of times the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in the reduced display mode is at most "10 / 60".Thus, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the proportion in which only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx is greater than the proportion in which both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible simultaneously in a front view. That is, when the movable part is in the second position, the proportion in which only the manufacturer information is visible among the manufacturer information and brand information is greater than the proportion in which both the manufacturer information and the brand information are visible simultaneously in a front view.

[0132] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in the gaming machine 10, when a specific condition is met while the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in the reduced display mode, the display mode of the performance display device 25 becomes the non-display mode. For this reason, when the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b and both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible, the launch handle 16 is operated and the specific condition is met. In this case, the display mode of the performance display device 25 becomes the non-display mode, the specific brand image BGx is not displayed, and only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible from the front. In other words, in this embodiment, when the position of the movable part is the second position and both the manufacturer information and brand information are visible simultaneously from the front, when a specific condition is met, only the manufacturer information is visible from the front.

[0133] As mentioned above, in the gaming machine 10, even if a specific condition is met when the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in the non-display mode, the display mode of the performance display device 25 will not change to the reduced display mode. For example, even if the specific condition is met and the display mode of the performance display device 25 becomes non-display when it is in the reduced display mode, and then the specific condition is met again, the display mode of the performance display device 25 will not return to the reduced display mode. In other words, in this embodiment, even if the specific condition is met again after the situation in which only the manufacturer information out of the manufacturer information and brand information becomes visible from the front as a result of the fulfillment of the specific condition, the situation in which both the manufacturer information and brand information become visible from the front simultaneously will not be achieved.

[0134] Furthermore, when the front frame 14 is open and the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, if the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to non-display mode, the specific brand image BGx that was displayed when the front frame 14 was closed and the movable body 38 was in the original position 38a cannot be seen. Therefore, when the situation transitions from the front frame 14 being closed to the front frame 14 being open, the position of the movable body 38 changes from the original position 38a to the performance position 38b, and the display mode of the performance display device 25 becomes non-display mode, the specific brand image BGx cannot be seen, and the visibility of the specific brand image BGx decreases. Also, when the front frame 14 is open and the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, if the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to reduced display mode, a smaller version of the specific brand image BGx than the one displayed when the front frame 14 was closed and the movable body 38 was in the original position 38a can be seen. Therefore, when the front frame 14 transitions from a closed state to an open state, the position of the movable body 38 changes from the original position 38a to the performance position 38b, and the display mode of the performance display device 25 becomes a reduced display mode, the specific brand image BGx becomes smaller, and the visibility of the specific brand image BGx decreases. In this way, when the front frame 14 transitions from a closed state to an open state, and the position of the movable body 38 changes from the original position 38a to the performance position 38b, the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view decreases. That is, in this embodiment, when the position of the movable part changes from the first position to the second position, the visibility of the brand information in a front view decreases. Also, when the front frame 14 transitions from an open state to a closed state, and the position of the movable body 38 changes from the performance position 38b to the original position 38a, the specific manufacturer image SGx, which was visible in a front view, becomes invisible. In other words, in this embodiment, when the position of the movable part changes from the second position to the first position, the visibility of the manufacturer information in a front view decreases.

[0135] Next, the operation of the movable body 38 in conjunction with the opening or closing of the front frame 14 and the control associated therewith will be explained. The sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that a specific brand image BGx is displayed when the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a and no door open command has been entered. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the specific brand image BGx is displayed in the upper right display area of ​​the display area 25r. The sub-CPU 51 also controls the display device 25 so that a specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed when the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a and no door open command has been entered. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r.

[0136] When the door open command is input while the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, the sub-CPU 51 moves the movable body 38 to the display position 38b. After the door open command is input while the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, if the door open command is input, the sub-CPU 51 repeatedly executes the following controls in order: control to hide the image for a first time period, control to reduce the display for a second time period, and control to hide the image for a third time period. When the image is hidden, the sub-CPU 51 does not display the specific brand image BGx. Also, when the image is hidden, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r.

[0137] When displaying in a reduced size mode, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the specific brand image BGx is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the specific brand image BGx is displayed smaller than when the movable body 38 is in its original position. The sub-CPU 51 also controls the display device 25 so that the specific brand image BGx is displayed in the upper right display area of ​​the display area 25r. Furthermore, when displaying in a reduced size mode, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display device 25 so that the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed in the lower right display area of ​​the display area 25r.

[0138] When the display mode of the performance display device 25 is set to a reduced display mode, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display mode of the performance display device 25 to a hidden display mode when a handle operation command is input. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 controls the display so that the specific brand image BGx is erased and the specific brand image BGx is not displayed. Also, when the position of the movable body 38 is at the performance position 38b and a door open command is not input, the sub-CPU 51 moves the movable body 38 to its original position 38a.

[0139] Here, an example of the changes in the display content of the performance display device 25 in the operation confirmation mode will be explained based on Figures 6(a) and 6(b). As shown in Figure 6(a), in the first state, the display device 25 displays the first manufacturer image SG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2. In the first state, the second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed in the display area on the back of the movable body 38, which is located at its original position 38a in a front view, and is not visible in a front view. On the other hand, in the first state, the first manufacturer image SG1 is visible in a front view. Also, in the first state, the display device 25 displays the first brand image BG1 and the second brand image BG2. And, in the first state, the first brand image BG1 and the second brand image BG2 are visible. Thus, in the first state, the first manufacturer image SG1, the first brand image BG1 and the second brand image BG2 are visible in a front view. In the first state, the first manufacturer image SG1, the first brand image BG1, and the second brand image BG2 are visible from the front, while the second manufacturer image SG2 is not visible. In other words, in the first state, both the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG may be visible from the front.

[0140] As shown in Figure 6(b), in the second state, the display device 25 displays the first manufacturer image SG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2. In the second state, the display device 25 displays the first manufacturer image SG1, which is smaller than in the first state. In the second state, the position of the movable body 38 becomes the display position 38b, making the second manufacturer image SG2 visible from the front. In other words, in the second state, the first manufacturer image SG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2 are visible from the front. Also, in the second state, the display device 25 does not display the first brand image BG1, but displays the second brand image BG2. Therefore, in the second state, the first brand image BG1 is not visible, but the second brand image BG2 is visible. Thus, in the second state, the first manufacturer image SG1, the second manufacturer image SG2, and the second brand image BG2 are visible from the front. Furthermore, in the second state, the first manufacturer image SG1, the second manufacturer image SG2, and the second brand image BG2 are visible in a front view, while the first brand image BG1 is not visible.

[0141] Furthermore, in the operation confirmation mode, operating the operation button BT while in the first state will transition to the second state. Conversely, in the operation confirmation mode, operating the operation button BT while in the second state will transition to the first state. Thus, in the operation confirmation mode, it is possible to switch between the first and second states by operating the operation button BT.

[0142] Furthermore, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the second manufacturer image SG2 becomes visible. In other words, when the gaming machine 10 transitions from the first state to the second state, the second manufacturer image SG2, which was previously invisible, becomes visible, improving the visibility of the second manufacturer image SG2. Conversely, when the gaming machine 10 transitions from the second state to the first state, the second manufacturer image SG2 becomes invisible. In other words, when the gaming machine 10 transitions from the second state to the first state, the second manufacturer image SG2, which was previously visible, becomes invisible, reducing the visibility of the second manufacturer image SG2. Also, when the gaming machine 10 transitions from the first state to the second state, the size of the first manufacturer image SG1 displayed becomes smaller, reducing the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1. Conversely, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the second state to the first state, the size of the first manufacturer image SG1 displayed increases, improving the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1. Also, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the first brand image BG1 becomes invisible. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the first brand image BG1 becomes invisible, and the visibility of the first brand image BG1 decreases. Conversely, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the second state to the first state, the first brand image BG1 becomes visible. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the second state to the first state, the first brand image BG1 becomes visible, and the visibility of the first brand image BG1 improves.

[0143] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(a), when in the first state, two manufacturer images SG, the first manufacturer image SG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2, are displayed on the display device 25. When in the second state, two brand images BG, the first brand image BG1 and the second brand image BG2, are displayed on the display device 25. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(b), when in the second state, two manufacturer images SG, the first manufacturer image SG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2, are displayed on the display device 25. And when in the second state, only one brand image BG, the second brand image BG2, is displayed on the display device 25. Thus, in the gaming machine 10, even when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed on the display device 25 remains the same. On the other hand, when transitioning from the first state to the second state in the gaming machine 10, the number of brand images BG displayed on the display device 25 decreases. Conversely, in the gaming machine 10, when transitioning from the second state to the first state, the number of brand images BG displayed on the display device 25 increases.

[0144] Next, an example of the change in the position of the movable body 38 and the display content of the performance display device 25 will be explained based on Figures 7(a) to 7(c). As shown in Figure 7(a), when the front frame 14 is closed, the position of the movable body 38 is the original position 38a. When the front frame 14 is closed, the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed on the display device 25. When the front frame 14 is closed, the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed in the display area on the back of the movable body 38, which is located at the original position 38a in a front view, and is not visible in a front view. When the front frame 14 is closed, the specific brand image BGx is displayed on the display device 25. And when the front frame 14 is closed, the specific brand image BGx is visible. Thus, when the front frame 14 is closed, the specific brand image BGx is visible in a front view. And when the front frame 14 is closed, the specific brand image BGx is visible in a front view, and the specific manufacturer image SGx is not visible. In other words, when the front frame 14 is closed and the position of the movable body 38 is at least in its original position 38a, the brand image BG is visible in a front view.

[0145] As shown in Figure 7(b), when the front frame 14 is opened, the position of the movable body 38 becomes the performance position 38b. When the front frame 14 is opened, the display mode of the performance display device 25 becomes the non-display mode. When the front frame 14 is open and in the non-display mode, the specific manufacturer image SGx is displayed on the performance display device 25. When the front frame 14 is open and in the non-display mode, the position of the movable body 38 becomes the performance position 38b, making the specific manufacturer image SGx visible from the front. When the front frame 14 is open and in the non-display mode, the specific brand image BGx is not displayed on the performance display device 25.

[0146] When the front frame 14 is opened and in a non-display state, and after 1 hour has elapsed, the display mode of the performance display device 25 changes to a reduced display mode. When the front frame 14 is open and in the reduced display mode, the performance display device 25 displays the specific manufacturer image SGx. When the front frame 14 is open and in the reduced display mode, the position of the movable body 38 becomes the performance position 38b, making the specific manufacturer image SGx visible from the front. When the front frame 14 is open and in the reduced display mode, the performance display device 25 displays the specific brand image BGx. When the front frame 14 is open and in the reduced display mode, the performance display device 25 displays a smaller version of the specific manufacturer image SGx than when the front frame 14 is closed. Thus, even when the front frame 14 is open and the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b, it may be possible to see both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx. In the gaming machine 10, when the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b, there are cases in which only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx, and cases in which both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible.

[0147] Furthermore, if a second time has elapsed since the display mode of the performance display device 25 changed to the reduced display mode, the display content of the performance display device 25 will once again be hidden. In addition, if the launch handle 16 is operated while the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in the reduced display mode, the display content of the performance display device 25 will once again be hidden. When the position of the movable body 38 is the performance position 38b and both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible, if the launch handle 16 is operated, the display mode of the performance display device 25 will change to the hidden mode, and only the specific manufacturer image SGx will be visible from the front. Regardless of whether the display mode of the performance display device 25 is in the hidden mode or the reduced display mode, when the front frame 14 is open, the position of the movable body 38 becomes the performance position 38b, making the specific manufacturer image SGx visible from the front.

[0148] In the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is opened and the position of the movable body 38 changes from the original position 38a to the performance position 38b, the specific brand image BGx is either not displayed or the displayed specific brand image BGx becomes smaller, thus reducing the visibility of the specific brand image BGx. Conversely, in the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is closed and the position of the movable body 38 changes from the performance position 38b to the original position 38a, the specific brand image BGx is either newly displayed or the displayed specific brand image BGx becomes larger, thus improving the visibility of the specific brand image BGx. In the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is opened and the position of the movable body 38 changes from the original position 38a to the performance position 38b, the specific manufacturer image SGx becomes visible in a front view, thus improving the visibility of the specific manufacturer image SGx. Conversely, in the gaming machine 10, when the front frame 14 is closed and the position of the movable body 38 changes from the display position 38b to the original position 38a, the specific manufacturer image SGx becomes invisible in a front view, and the visibility of the specific manufacturer image SGx decreases.

[0149] According to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. (1) When the position of the movable body 38 is at least the display position 38b, the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible in a front view. When the position of the movable body 38 changes from the display position 38b to the original position 38a, the visibility of the specific manufacturer image SGx in a front view decreases. Therefore, when the position of the movable body 38 changes from the display position 38b to the original position 38a, it is possible to prevent the attention of players who do not need information about the manufacturer from being drawn to the specific manufacturer image SGx, and to provide information according to the situation.

[0150] (2) When the movable body 38 is at least in its original position 38a, the specific brand image BGx is visible in a front view. When the movable body 38 changes from its original position 38a to the display position 38b, the visibility of the specific brand image BGx in a front view decreases. Therefore, when the movable body 38 changes from its original position 38a to the display position 38b, for example, the attention of an administrator who does not need brand information will shift to the specific brand image BGx, which can prevent them from mistakenly thinking that the specific brand image BGx is information about the manufacturer, and information can be provided according to the situation.

[0151] (3) When the position of the movable body 38 changes from the performance position 38b to the original position 38a, the visibility of the specific manufacturer image SGx in a front view decreases. Furthermore, when the position of the movable body 38 changes from the original position 38a to the performance position 38b, the visibility of the specific brand image BGx in a front view decreases. Thus, by setting the position of the movable body 38 to the original position 38a, the visibility of the specific manufacturer image SGx is reduced, and by setting the position of the movable body to the performance position 38b, the visibility of the specific brand image BGx is reduced. Therefore, by changing the position of the movable body 38 depending on the situation, information can be provided effectively according to the situation.

[0152] (4) When the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b and both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible simultaneously in a front view, operating the firing handle 16 will result in a situation where only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible in a front view of the two specific brand image BGx. Therefore, if the specific brand image BGx is not needed, operating the firing handle 16 will allow only the specific manufacturer image SGx to be seen. For example, if it is not possible to determine whether the specific brand image BGx or the specific manufacturer image SGx is the manufacturer image SG, operating the firing handle 16 will make the specific brand image BGx invisible and allow the specific manufacturer image SGx to be seen.

[0153] (5) When the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, there are cases where only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx, but there are also cases where both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible simultaneously in a front view. For this reason, by having the movable body 38 in the performance position 38b, it is possible to suppress the attention of managers who do not need brand information from shifting to the specific brand image BGx, while creating an opportunity to confirm brand information, and to suppress the inability to confirm brand information due to the movable body 38 being in the performance position 38b.

[0154] Furthermore, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the frequency at which only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx is higher than the frequency at which both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are simultaneously visible in a front view when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b. Therefore, it is possible to increase the frequency at which the attention of administrators who do not need brand information shifts to the specific brand image BGx, while also preventing brand information from becoming unviewable simply because the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b.

[0155] Furthermore, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the proportion in which only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx is greater than the proportion in which both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible simultaneously in a front view. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the proportion in which the attention of administrators who do not need brand information shifts to the specific brand image BGx, while also suppressing the fact that brand information becomes unverifiable simply because the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b.

[0156] (6) In the first state, when both the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG can be seen simultaneously in a front view, and the brand image BG is visible in a front view, transitioning to the second state, where at least the manufacturer image SG is visible in a front view, reduces the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view. The second state can be reached by operating the operation button BT. Therefore, if it is desired to reduce the visibility of the brand image BG in the first state, the user can transition to the second state by operating the operation button BT, thereby reducing the visibility of the brand image BG and effectively providing information according to the situation.

[0157] (7) When transitioning from the first state, where the number of manufacturer image SGs displayed is the first number and the number of brand image BGs displayed is the second number, to the second state, where the number of manufacturer image SGs displayed is the first number, the number of brand image BGs displayed decreases from the second number. The transition to the second state can be made by operating the operation button BT. Therefore, if it is desired to reduce attention to the brand image BG when in the first state, the user can transition to the second state by operating the operation button BT, reducing the number of brand image BGs displayed and effectively providing information according to the situation.

[0158] (8) In the first state, both the first manufacturer image SG1 and the brand image BG are visible from the front, but the second manufacturer image SG2 is not visible from the front. When transitioning to the second state, the second manufacturer image SG2 becomes visible, while the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1 and the brand image BG in the front view decreases compared to the first state. Therefore, when in the first state, if it is desired to reduce the visibility of the brand image BG or to make the second manufacturer image SG2 visible, the user can operate the operation button BT to transition to the second state, thereby reducing the visibility of the brand image BG or making the second manufacturer image SG2 visible, and providing information effectively according to the situation.

[0159] (9) When the first state is in which both the manufacturer image SG, the first brand image BG1, and the second brand image BG2 are visible in a front view, transitioning to the second state will reduce the visibility of the first brand image BG1 in a front view. When it is desired to reduce the visibility of the first brand image BG1 in the second state compared to the first state, the user can transition to the second state by operating the operation button BT, thereby reducing the visibility of the first brand image BG1 and effectively providing information according to the situation.

[0160] The above embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically. The following methods may be used to reduce the visibility of the manufacturer image SG. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be reduced by making the previously visible manufacturer image SG invisible. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be reduced by reducing the number of visible manufacturer image SGs. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be reduced by making the visible manufacturer image SGs smaller. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be reduced by making a portion of the manufacturer image SG invisible in a front view. For example, in order to make a portion of the manufacturer image SG invisible in a front view, an image different from the manufacturer image SG may be superimposed on the player side of the manufacturer image SG. For example, in order to make a portion of the manufacturer image SG invisible in a front view, the position of the movable body 38 may be set to a position that overlaps with the manufacturer image SG in a front view. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be reduced by displaying an image different from the manufacturer image SG. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be reduced by increasing the number of images displayed separately from the manufacturer image SG. For example, if an image other than the manufacturer image SG is displayed, attention to the manufacturer image SG will be dispersed, resulting in a decrease in the visibility of the manufacturer image SG. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be reduced by issuing a warning about engrossment when the manufacturer image SG is displayed. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be reduced by executing an error notification effect when the manufacturer image SG is displayed. In order to improve the visibility of the manufacturer image SG, the opposite method to the methods for reducing the visibility of the manufacturer image SG described above may be adopted. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be improved by increasing the number of visible manufacturer image SGs. For example, the visibility of the manufacturer image SG may be improved by making the visible manufacturer image SG larger.

[0161] The following methods may be used to reduce the visibility of the brand image background. For example, the visibility of the brand image background may be reduced by making the previously visible brand image background invisible. For example, the visibility of the brand image background may be reduced by reducing the number of visible brand image backgrounds. For example, the visibility of the brand image background may be reduced by making the visible brand image backgrounds smaller. For example, the visibility of the brand image background may be reduced by making a portion of the brand image background invisible in a front view. For example, in order to make a portion of the brand image background invisible in a front view, an image different from the brand image background may be superimposed on the player side of the brand image background. For example, in order to make a portion of the brand image background invisible in a front view, the position of the movable body 38 may be set to a position that overlaps with the brand image background in a front view. For example, the visibility of the brand image background may be reduced by displaying an image different from the brand image background. For example, the visibility of the brand image background can be reduced by increasing the number of images displayed separately from the brand image background. For example, if an image other than the brand image background is displayed, attention will be dispersed to the brand image background, resulting in a decrease in the visibility of the brand image background. For example, the visibility of the brand image background can be reduced by displaying a warning about immersion when the brand image background is displayed. For example, the visibility of the brand image background can be reduced by displaying an error notification when the brand image background is displayed. When improving the visibility of the brand image background, the opposite of the methods used to reduce the visibility of the brand image background may be employed. For example, the visibility of the brand image background can be improved by increasing the number of visible brand image backgrounds. For example, the visibility of the brand image background can be improved by making the visible brand image backgrounds larger.

[0162] • In order to make the information invisible from the front, the following methods may be employed. For example, the information displayed on the back of a component (e.g., a movable body 38, a mechanism, a front frame 14, a door component) may be positioned on the player's side of the displayed information so that the information displayed on the back of the component becomes invisible. The component referred to here corresponds to a movable part. For example, the information may be made invisible by not displaying the information itself.

[0163] In the above embodiment, for example, the second manufacturer image SG2 is displayed in the display area on the back of the movable body 38, which is located at its original position 38a in a front view, thereby making the second manufacturer image SG2 invisible in a front view. This only means that it is invisible in a front view; the second manufacturer image SG2 can be seen by changing the viewing angle. Therefore, not being visible in a front view does not necessarily mean that it is invisible, and may include cases where it becomes visible by changing the viewing angle. Furthermore, being visible in a front view does not mean that it will be visible regardless of how the viewing angle is changed.

[0164] When the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the brand image BG may be made invisible. For example, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the brand image BG may be displayed in the display area on the back of the movable body 38 that is located in the performance position 38b when viewed from the front. The brand image BG may then be configured so that it cannot be seen when viewed from the front. Also, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the manufacturer image SG may be made invisible. For example, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the manufacturer image SG may be displayed in the display area on the back of the movable body 38 that is located in the performance position 38b when viewed from the front. The manufacturer image SG may then be configured so that it cannot be seen when viewed from the front. For example, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the manufacturer image SG may not be displayed on the performance display device 25, so that the manufacturer image SG cannot be seen when viewed from the front.

[0165] When the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, the manufacturer image SG may be invisible. For example, when the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, the manufacturer image SG may not be displayed on the display device 25, so that the manufacturer image SG cannot be seen from the front. Also, when the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, the brand image BG may be invisible. For example, when the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, the brand image BG may be displayed in the display area on the back of the movable body 38 which is located in its original position 38a in the front view. The brand image BG may then be configured so that it cannot be seen from the front. For example, when the movable body 38 is in its original position 38a, the brand image BG may not be displayed on the display device 25, so that the brand image BG cannot be seen from the front.

[0166] - When the position of the movable body 38 changes from the performance position 38b to the original position 38a, the system may be configured so that the visibility of the manufacturer image SG in a front view does not decrease. For example, even if the position of the movable body 38 changes from the performance position 38b to the original position 38a, the system may be configured so that the visibility of the manufacturer image SG in a front view does not change. For example, when the position of the movable body 38 changes from the performance position 38b to the original position 38a, the system may be configured so that the visibility of the manufacturer image SG in a front view improves.

[0167] The movable body 38 may be configured so that the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view does not decrease when the position of the movable body 38 changes from the original position 38a to the performance position 38b. For example, even if the position of the movable body 38 changes from the original position 38a to the performance position 38b, it may be configured so that the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view does not change. For example, the movable body 38 may be configured so that the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view improves when the position of the movable body 38 changes from the original position 38a to the performance position 38b.

[0168] - When the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b and both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible simultaneously in a front view, the device may be configured so that even if the operating means of the specific operating means is operated, both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx remain visible simultaneously in a front view. For example, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b and both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible simultaneously in a front view, the device may be configured so that even if the firing handle 16 is operated, only the specific manufacturer image SGx is not visible in a front view.

[0169] - When the position of the movable body 38 is the display position 38b and both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible simultaneously in a front view, operating an operating means other than the launch handle 16 may result in a situation where only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible in a front view of the two specific manufacturer images SGx and the specific brand image BGx. The operating means other than the launch handle 16 may be, for example, an operation button BT, a locking mechanism SA, or an operating means that can be operated by opening a door member.

[0170] When the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, it may be possible to have either only the specific manufacturer image SGx visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx, or both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx visible simultaneously in a front view. For example, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, it may be possible to have only the specific manufacturer image SGx visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx. For example, when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, it may be possible to have both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx visible simultaneously in a front view.

[0171] When the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the frequency at which only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx may be the same as the frequency at which both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are simultaneously visible in a front view when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b. The frequency at which both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are simultaneously visible in a front view when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b may be higher than the frequency at which only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx when the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b.

[0172] When the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the proportion in which only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx may be the same as the proportion in which both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible simultaneously in a front view. When the movable body 38 is in the performance position 38b, the proportion in which both the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx are visible simultaneously in a front view may be greater than the proportion in which only the specific manufacturer image SGx is visible among the specific manufacturer image SGx and the specific brand image BGx.

[0173] In the first state, it is not necessary for both the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG to be visible simultaneously in a front view. For example, in the first state, only the manufacturer image SG may be visible among the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG. In other words, in the first state, it is possible to configure the system so that at least the manufacturer image SG is visible among the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG. For example, in the first state, only the brand image BG may be visible among the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG. In other words, in the first state, it is possible to configure the system so that at least the brand image BG is visible among the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG.

[0174] In the second state, it is not necessary for both the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG to be visible simultaneously in a front view. For example, in the second state, only the manufacturer image SG may be visible among the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG. In other words, in the second state, it is possible to configure the system so that at least the manufacturer image SG is visible among the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG. For example, in the second state, only the brand image BG may be visible among the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG. In other words, in the second state, it is possible to configure the system so that at least the brand image BG is visible among the manufacturer image SG and the brand image BG.

[0175] - When the brand image BG is visible in a front view while in the first state, the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view does not necessarily decrease when transitioning to the second state. For example, when the brand image BG is visible in a front view while in the first state, the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view does not necessarily change when transitioning to the second state. For example, when the brand image BG is visible in a front view while in the first state, the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view may improve when transitioning to the second state.

[0176] The number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state does not have to be the same as the number of brand images BG displayed in the first state. For example, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state may be greater than the number of brand images BG displayed in the first state. For example, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state may be less than the number of brand images BG displayed in the first state. The number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state does not have to be the same as the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the second state. In other words, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed may change when transitioning from the first state to the second state. For example, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state may be greater than the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the second state. For example, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state may be less than the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the second state. For example, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state may be the same as the number of brand images BG displayed in the second state. For example, the number of manufacturer images SG displayed in the first state may be less than the number of brand images BG displayed in the second state.

[0177] The number of brand image backgrounds displayed in the first state does not have to be greater than the number of brand image backgrounds displayed in the second state. For example, the number of brand image backgrounds displayed in the first state may be the same as the number of brand image backgrounds displayed in the second state. In other words, even if there is a transition from the first state to the second state, the number of brand image backgrounds displayed does not have to change from the number of brand image backgrounds displayed in the first state. For example, the number of brand image backgrounds displayed in the first state may be less than the number of brand image backgrounds displayed in the second state. In other words, when there is a transition from the first state to the second state, the number of brand image backgrounds displayed may be configured to increase from the number of brand image backgrounds displayed in the first state.

[0178] When in the first state, either or both of the first manufacturer image SG1 and the second manufacturer image SG2 may be visible. Alternatively, when in the first state, neither the first manufacturer image SG1 nor the second manufacturer image SG2 may be visible. When in the first state, either or both of the first brand image BG1 and the second brand image BG2 may be visible. Alternatively, when in the first state, neither the first brand image BG1 nor the second brand image BG2 may be visible. For example, when in the first state, parts of the manufacturer image SG, the first brand image BG1, and the second brand image BG2 may be visible in a front view.

[0179] - When transitioning from the first state to the second state, the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1 in a front view does not necessarily have to decrease compared to when it is in the first state. For example, even when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the size of the first manufacturer image SG1 may be configured not to change, so that the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1 in a front view does not change from the first state. For example, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, a larger first manufacturer image SG1 may be displayed than when it is in the first state, so that the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1 in a front view improves compared to when it is in the first state. For example, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the first manufacturer image SG1 may not be displayed, so that the visibility of the first manufacturer image SG1 in a front view decreases compared to when it is in the first state.

[0180] - When transitioning from the first state to the second state, the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view does not necessarily have to decrease compared to when in the first state. For example, even when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the brand image BG may continue to be displayed, and the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view may not change from the first state. For example, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, more brand image BGs may be displayed than when in the first state, and the visibility of the brand image BG in a front view may improve compared to when in the first state. For example, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the brand image BG may not be displayed, and the brand image BG that was visible in the first state may become invisible. For example, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the visibility of the first brand image BG1 in a front view does not necessarily have to decrease compared to when in the first state. For example, even if the system transitions from the first state to the second state, the first brand image BG1 may continue to be displayed, so that the visibility of the first brand image BG1 in a front view does not change from the first state. Alternatively, when the system transitions from the first state to the second state, a larger version of the first brand image BG1 may be displayed in the visible area in a front view compared to the first state, thus improving the visibility of the first brand image BG1 in a front view.

[0181] The predetermined operating means used when transitioning from the first state to the second state may be different from the predetermined operating means used when transitioning from the second state to the first state. For example, the system may be configured so that when in the first state, the system transitions to the second state by operating the operation button BT, and when in the second state, the system transitions to the first state by operating the launch handle 16. The predetermined operating means may be either the launch handle 16 or the operation button BT, or it may be any other operating means. The system does not necessarily have to be able to transition to the first state by operating the predetermined operating means. For example, the system may be able to transition to the first state when a predetermined time has been reached since the second state. Similarly, the system does not necessarily have to be able to transition to the second state by operating the predetermined operating means. For example, the system may be able to transition to the second state when a predetermined time has been reached since the first state. For example, the system may be able to transition to the first state when a game ball launched by operating the launch handle 16 enters the start openings 26, 27 and a special game is executed. Similarly, for example, the second state may be reached when a game ball launched by operating the launch handle 16 enters the start openings 26 and 27, and a special game is executed.

[0182] • As termination conditions for the operation check mode, some of the termination conditions for the operation check mode described above may be adopted. Alternatively, termination conditions different from those described above may be adopted for the operation check mode. For example, the termination conditions for the operation check mode may include a termination condition that is met when the conditions for paying out prize balls are met.

[0183] The above-mentioned gaming machine 10 does not necessarily have to be controllable to the operation confirmation mode. Also, the operation confirmation mode does not necessarily have to be configured to be controlled when power supply is started. For example, the operation confirmation mode may be configured to be controlled when the door member is opened. For example, the operation confirmation mode may be configured to be controlled by operating an operating means that can be operated by opening the door member.

[0184] The movable body 38 may be configured to perform an initial operation when power is supplied. The system may be configured to perform an internal operation check of the movable body 38 by performing an initial operation. After the initial operation of the movable body 38 is performed, the system may be configured to control the system into an operation check mode. The system may also be configured to perform an initial operation of the movable body 38 after the operation check mode has ended.

[0185] The manufacturer information unit may be one or more. The manufacturer information unit is not limited to the performance display device 25. Also, if there are multiple manufacturer information units, the configurations targeted by the manufacturer information units do not necessarily have to be the same. For example, some of the multiple manufacturer information units may be the performance display device 25, while the others have a different configuration from the performance display device 25. Similarly, the brand information unit may be one or more. The brand information unit is not limited to the performance display device 25. Also, if there are multiple brand information units, the configurations targeted by the brand information units do not necessarily have to be the same. For example, some of the multiple brand information units may be the performance display device 25, while the others have a different configuration from the performance display device 25.

[0186] The manufacturer information may be any one of the first manufacturer image SG1, the second manufacturer image SG2, and the specific manufacturer image SGx exemplified in the above embodiment. The manufacturer information is not limited to the manufacturer image SG exemplified in the above embodiment. For example, the manufacturer information corresponding to information that can identify the manufacturer does not have to be an image displayed on the performance display device 25. For example, an image displayed on an image display device different from the performance display device 25 may be used as information that can identify the manufacturer. Furthermore, the manufacturer information is not limited to these. The term "information that can identify the manufacturer" as used in this specification may also be used as "manufacturer information". For example, the manufacturer information does not have to be an image; it may be a sticker. In this case, the area where the sticker is affixed can be considered as the manufacturer information section. For example, the manufacturer information may be printed text information. In this case, the area where the text information is printed can be considered as the manufacturer information section. The manufacturer information may also constitute a part of the design of the gaming machine 10. In this case, that design can be considered as the manufacturer information section.

[0187] The brand information may be any one of the first brand image BG1, second brand image BG2, and specific brand image BGx exemplified in the above embodiment. The brand information is not limited to the brand image BG exemplified in the above embodiment. For example, a logo effect can be considered as brand information, and the effect display device 25 on which the logo effect is performed can be considered as the brand information unit. For example, the brand information corresponding to information that can identify a brand does not have to be an image displayed on the effect display device 25. For example, an image displayed on an image display device different from the effect display device 25 can be considered as information that can identify a brand. Furthermore, the brand information is not limited to these. The term "information that can identify a brand" as used herein may also be used as "brand information". For example, the brand information does not have to be an image; it may be a sticker. In this case, the area on which the sticker is affixed can be considered as the brand information unit. For example, the brand information may be printed text information. In this case, the area on which the text information is printed can be considered as the brand information unit. The brand information may also constitute a part of the design of the gaming machine 10. In this case, that design can be considered as the brand information unit. For example, a brand design BD can be viewed as brand information, and the design of the brand design BD can be viewed as the brand information section.

[0188] The gaming machine may not have a manufacturer's certification sticker SS affixed to it. The location where the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is affixed may also be changed. For example, the gaming machine may have the manufacturer's certification sticker SS affixed to a door member such as the front frame 14. For example, when the logo display is being executed on the display device 25 and the front frame 14 is in a closed position, both the manufacturer's certification sticker SS and the logo display may be visible simultaneously from the front. For example, when the front frame 14 is in a closed position, both the manufacturer's certification sticker SS and the brand design BD may be visible simultaneously from the front.

[0189] • The gaming machine may not have a brand design BD. Furthermore, the design of the brand design BD may be changed. Also, the location of the brand design BD on the front frame 14 may be changed. For example, the brand design BD may be displayed in a location that becomes visible when a door component such as the front frame 14 is opened.

[0190] When the front frame 14 is in a closed position, the logo display may be configured to be more visible from directions other than the front view than from the front view. Also, when the front frame 14 is in a closed position, the brand design BD may be configured to be more visible from directions other than the front view than from the front view.

[0191] • Brand information may be information that identifies the same company, but differs in at least some aspects from manufacturer information. For example, one of "XXX Co., Ltd." and the other "XXX Co., Ltd." may be used as brand information, while the other is used as manufacturer information. Alternatively, one of the logo and company name may be used as brand information, while the other is used as manufacturer information.

[0192] In the above embodiment, the degree of advantage when winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the second starting port 27 may be made different from the degree of advantage when winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the first starting port 26. For example, the proportion for determining the type of jackpot, or the types of jackpots that can be determined, may be made different for cases where a jackpot is won in a jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the second starting port 27 and cases where a jackpot is won in a jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the first starting port 26.

[0193] In the above embodiment, the second special game is configured to be executed with priority over the first special game. However, the first and second special games may be configured to be executed in the order in which their execution is suspended, regardless of the type of special game they are. Alternatively, the first special game may be configured to be executed with priority over the second special game. Furthermore, the first and second special games may be configured to be executed simultaneously. For example, in a low base state, the performance game corresponding to the first special game may be executed, while in a high base state, the performance game corresponding to the second special game may be executed.

[0194] The above embodiment may be applied to a gaming machine that performs both a big win lottery and a small win lottery. Generally, if a small win is won in the small win lottery, the small win symbol is displayed as a confirmed stop in a special game, and a small win game is granted after the special game ends. The system may be configured so that the small win lottery is performed only when a ball enters either the first start port 26 or the second start port 27, or it may be configured so that the small win lottery can be performed regardless of whether the ball enters the first start port 26 or the second start port 27. The small win symbol is one of the results derived in the special game when a big win is not won. The gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied in a gaming machine that can be controlled to a state (so-called small win RUSH) in which the number of times (frequency) a small win is won per unit time, or the number of times (frequency) a small win game is granted per unit time, is increased compared to the normal state. In gaming machines that can conduct both big win and small win draws, both the big win draw and the small win draw can be considered as winning draws, and both the big win game and the small win game can be considered as winning games. In addition, in gaming machines that can conduct both big win and small win draws, only the big win draw can be considered as a winning draw, and only the big win game can be considered as a winning game.

[0195] In a gaming machine that performs a minor win lottery, there may be multiple types of minor win symbols. Furthermore, the type of minor win game may differ depending on the type of minor win symbol displayed when the special game is confirmed to stop. For example, if the type of minor win game is different, the manner in which the big prize slot is opened in the minor win game may be different. The big prize slot opened in the big win game and the big prize slot opened in the minor win game may be the same or different. In addition, the period during which the high base state can be controlled may be determined by the number of times the minor win lottery is won or the number of times a minor win game is granted. The number of times a minor win game is granted here may be one or two or more times.

[0196] ・As a gaming machine that can be controlled to be in a probability variation state, there are specifications that control the machine to be in a probability variation state until the next big win is granted, specifications that control the machine to be in a probability variation state until the machine wins the draw to drop out of the probability variation state (dropout machine), and specifications that control the machine to be in a probability variation state until a predetermined number of special games are completed (ST machine). Pachinko gaming machines that can be controlled to be in a probability variation state include specifications that control the machine to be in a probability variation state when the game ball passes through a specific area (V probability variation machine). The gaming machine of the above embodiment may be materialized into a gaming machine of any of these specifications. It may also be a gaming machine with specifications that combine the dropout machine and the V probability variation machine described above. The V probability variation machine has a specification that generates a specific round game by having a single large prize slot. The V probability variation machine has a specification that generates a specific round game by having multiple large prize slots consisting of a large prize slot (V prize slot) that is opened in a specific round game and large prize slots that are opened in round games other than the specific round game. The above embodiment may be implemented in any specification of a V-type variable probability machine.

[0197] Even if a jackpot is not won, the machine may be configured to be controllable to a high base state based on the number of times a special game has been played. For example, the above embodiment may be applied to a gaming machine that is controlled to a low probability high base state when the number of special games played while in a non-probability state reaches a predetermined number.

[0198] Even if a jackpot is not won, the game may be configured to be controllable to a high base state based on the confirmed stop display of a special symbol (e.g., a chance symbol) that is different from the jackpot symbol during a special game. The chance symbol here is different from the jackpot symbol and also different from the losing symbol. Furthermore, the chance symbol is different from the minor jackpot symbol. For example, the above embodiment may be applied to a gaming machine that is controlled to a low probability high base state when a chance symbol is confirmed stop display during a special game while in a normal state.

[0199] The gaming machine 10 does not necessarily have a locking mechanism SA. In the gaming machine 10, the door member can be opened or closed by operating the locking mechanism SA. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, the door member can be moved from a closed position to an open position by operating the locking mechanism SA, and the door member can be moved from an open position to a closed position by operating the locking mechanism SA. When the door member is considered as a movable part, the position in which the door member (for example, the front frame 14) is closed may be considered as the first position, and the position in which the door member (for example, the front frame 14) is open may be considered as the second position. For example, in the gaming machine 10, the front frame 14 can be moved from a closed position to an open position by operating the locking mechanism SA, and the front frame 14 can be moved from an open position to a closed position by operating the locking mechanism SA. When the front frame 14 is considered as a movable part, the position in which the front frame 14 is closed may be considered as the first position, and the position in which the front frame 14 is open may be considered as the second position. The predetermined operating means may be a point that is operated (touched) when opening the door member. For example, the predetermined operating means may be a part or all of the front frame 14, or it may be the locking mechanism SA.

[0200] The above embodiment may also be applied to a revolving-type gaming machine (a so-called slot machine). The revolving-type gaming machine comprises a rectangular box-shaped main cabinet and a door member that covers the opening of the main cabinet. The revolving-type gaming machine is provided with a locking mechanism, similar to the gaming machine 10. In the revolving-type gaming machine, the locking mechanism can be operated to unlock and open the door member. In other words, the door member can be opened by operating the locking mechanism. The door member in the revolving-type gaming machine corresponds to the door member of the gaming machine 10, or the front frame 14 of the gaming machine 10. The door member in the revolving-type gaming machine can take on at least a closed position and an open position. In the revolving-type gaming machine, when the door member is opened, for example, the reels housed in the main cabinet can be seen from the front. In the revolving-type gaming machine, when the door member is opened, for example, the main circuit board housed in the main cabinet can be seen from the front. As a result, when the door member of a slot machine is in an open position, the manufacturer-identifying text information printed on the main board is visible from the front. Similarly, when the door member of a slot machine is in an open position, the manufacturer-identifying text information printed on the main board case is visible from the front. Conversely, when the door member of a slot machine is closed, for example, the main board housed in the main cabinet becomes invisible from the front. As a result, when the door member of a slot machine changes from an open position to a closed position, the visibility of the manufacturer-identifying text information printed on the main board 40 in a front view decreases. Similarly, when the door member of a slot machine changes from an open position to a closed position, the visibility of the manufacturer-identifying text information printed on the main board case decreases. On the front side of the door member of a slot machine, for example, there are MAXBET buttons, 1BET buttons, payout buttons, a coin slot, a start lever, and a stop button. The operating means that can be used as a slot machine include at least a MAXBET button, a 1BET button, a payout button, a start lever, and a stop button. Any one or more of these operating means may be designated as specific operating means in a slot machine.

[0201] In slot machines, the bet amount (also called the number of bets) can be set by operating the MAXBET button, the 1BET button, or by inserting tokens. After setting the bet amount, when the start lever is operated, multiple reels rotate. After the multiple reels have rotated, when the stop button is operated, the rotation of the corresponding reel stops. Then, when all the reels have stopped rotating, a prize may be awarded depending on the combination of symbols that stopped. In slot machines, the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is affixed to the front side of the door member. Therefore, in slot machines, when the door member is in the closed position, the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is visible from the front. On the other hand, in slot machines, when the door member is in the open position, the manufacturer's certification sticker SS is not visible from the front. As a result, when the position of the door member changes from the closed position to the open position, the visibility of the manufacturer's certification sticker SS decreases. For example, the manufacturer's sticker SS may be designated as the first manufacturer's information, and the portion to which the manufacturer's sticker SS is affixed may be designated as the first manufacturer's information section. In this case, for example, the manufacturer-identifying text information printed on the main board may be designated as the second manufacturer's information, and the portion to which this text information is printed may be designated as the second manufacturer's information section. Alternatively, the manufacturer-identifying text information printed on the main board case may be designated as the second manufacturer's information, and the portion to which this text information is printed may be designated as the second manufacturer's information section.

[0202] In a slot machine, a variable game may be executed on the performance display device 25 separately from the variable game performed using the reels. For example, the variable game executed on the performance display device 25 may be able to be executed in conjunction with the variable game performed using the reels. In a slot machine, the performance display device 25 may be configured to execute a series of effects, including a logo effect, when it is in a standby state, similar to the embodiment described above. In other words, the slot machine may be configured to execute a logo effect. Similarly, in a slot machine, the performance display device 25 may be configured to execute a warning about excessive gambling when it is in a standby state. In a slot machine, the performance display device 25 may be attached to a door member. Therefore, the logo effect is visible from the front, at least when the door member is in a closed position. When the door member is opened, the visibility of the display content of the performance display device 25 in a front view, that is, the visibility of the display area of ​​the performance display device 25 in a front view, decreases. As a result, when the logo animation is being performed on the performance display device 25, for example, if the position of the door member changes from a closed position to an open position, the visibility of the logo animation in a front view decreases. In other words, when the position of the door member is closed, the logo animation is visible in a front view, but when the position of the door member changes to an open position, the visibility of the logo animation in a front view decreases. For example, in a slot machine, when the logo animation is being performed on the performance display device 25, when the door member is closed, both the manufacturer's seal SS and the logo animation are visible simultaneously in a front view. Thus, when the position of the door member is closed, it is possible to see both the manufacturer's seal SS and the logo animation simultaneously in a front view. Naturally, when the logo animation is not being performed, even if the position of the door member is closed, the logo animation cannot be seen in a front view. In other words, when the position of the door member is open, at least the manufacturer's seal SS of the manufacturer's seal SS and the logo animation are visible in a front view.

[0203] When the logo animation is being performed on the display device 25 and the door member is in the closed position, the number of manufacturer information items displayed is one manufacturer's certification label SS, and the number of brand information items displayed is one logo animation. In other words, when the logo animation is being performed on the display device 25 and the door member is in the closed position, both the manufacturer's certification label SS and the logo animation are visible from the front, while the manufacturer-identifying text information printed on the main board is not visible. Furthermore, for example, when the logo animation is being performed on the display device 25 and the door member is in the open position, the number of manufacturer information items displayed may be one of the manufacturer-identifying text information printed on the main board. On the other hand, when the logo animation is being performed on the display device 25 and the door member is in the open position, the logo animation is not visible from the front. Therefore, when the display device 25 is executing a logo animation and the door member is in a closed position, and then transitions to a state where the display device 25 is executing a logo animation and the door member is in an open position, the manufacturer-identifying text information printed on the main board becomes visible. On the other hand, when the display device 25 is executing a logo animation and the door member is in a closed position, and then transitions to a state where the display device 25 is executing a logo animation and the door member is in an open position, the visibility of the manufacturer's certification mark SS and the logo animation in a front view decreases. This decrease in visibility refers to the decrease in visibility from the state where the display device 25 is executing a logo animation and the door member is in a closed position. Furthermore, when the display device 25 is executing a logo animation and transitions to a state where the display device 25 is executing a logo animation and the door member is in an open position, the number of brand-related information items displayed decreases from one.

[0204] The door member of a slot machine may be configured to display the brand design BD, similar to the game machine 10. In this case, for example, when the logo animation is being performed on the performance display device 25 and the door member is in a closed position, the manufacturer's certification mark SS, the logo animation, and the brand design BD are visible from the front. When the door member is in an open position, the brand design BD is not visible from the front. Therefore, when transitioning from a situation where the logo animation is being performed on the performance display device 25 and the door member is in a closed position to a situation where the logo animation is being performed on the performance display device 25 and the door member is in an open position, the visibility of the logo animation from the front decreases. Similarly, when transitioning from a situation where the logo animation is being performed on the performance display device 25 and the door member is in a closed position to a situation where the logo animation is being performed on the performance display device 25 and the door member is in an open position, the visibility of the brand design BD from the front decreases. The reduction in visibility referred to here means the reduction in visibility when the logo animation is being performed on the performance display device 25 and the door member is in the closed position. For example, the logo animation may be designated as the first brand information, and the performance display device 25 on which the logo animation is performed may be designated as the first brand information unit. In this case, for example, the brand design BD may be designated as the second brand information, and the design that becomes the brand design BD may be designated as the second brand information unit.

[0205] A slot machine may include brand information that becomes visible when the door member is opened. Furthermore, when the door member is in the open position, the machine may be configured so that both the text information printed on the main board and the brand information that becomes visible when the door member is opened can be seen simultaneously from the front. In a slot machine, the performance display device 25 may not be attached to the door member but be housed in the main cabinet. Furthermore, the brand information that becomes visible when the door member is opened may be a logo performance executed by the performance display device 25 housed in the main cabinet. When the door member is open and both the text information printed on the main board and the brand information that becomes visible when the door member is opened can be seen from the front, the machine may be configured so that, under certain conditions, only the manufacturer information among the manufacturer information and brand information can be seen from the front.

[0206] • A slot machine may use a game medium other than tokens. For example, it may be a game machine that uses game balls (pachinko balls) as the game medium. In addition, the game medium may be managed by data (information). A slot machine may be a so-called managed game machine. That is, a slot machine may be a smart slot (so-called smart slot). In other words, a slot machine may be a tokenless game machine. In a tokenless game machine, instead of credits, or in addition to credits, the number of tokens held, including tokens borrowed from the dispenser unit, may be configured to be stored as data (information). The number of tokens held is also called the number of balls or tokens held. Tokens in a tokenless game machine can be called a virtual medium. The virtual medium corresponds to the game value.

[0207] The gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied in a smart pachinko gaming machine (so-called "SmaPachi"). A smart pachinko gaming machine is sometimes called a managed gaming machine. In a smart pachinko gaming machine, similar to gaming machine 10, it is configured to be able to launch game balls into the game area 21. On the other hand, in a smart pachinko gaming machine, the number of game balls held by the player is managed as electronic data. It is configured to be possible to launch physical game balls into the game area 21 by consuming game balls (game value) managed as electronic data. In such a smart pachinko gaming machine, when game balls are awarded as prize balls, game balls are awarded as electronic data. That is, game balls as a game medium may be physical, of course, but may also be managed as electronic data. Similarly, game value may be physical, or may be managed as electronic data.

[0208] In the above embodiment, the sub-board 50 is used as a sub-overall control board, and a display control board specializing in controlling the performance display device 25, a light emission control board specializing in controlling the decorative lamp 17, a sound control board specializing in controlling the speaker 18, and a movable body control board specializing in controlling the movable body 38 may be provided separately from the sub-board 50. Note that the movable parts do not have to be electrically operable. For example, the movable parts may be operable by manipulation. The sub-board may include such a sub-overall control board and other boards that control the performance. Alternatively, the main CPU 41 of the main board 40 and the sub-CPU 51 of the sub-board 50 may be mounted on a single board. The display control board, light emission control board, sound control board, and movable body control board may be arbitrarily combined to form one or more boards.

[0209] The information display panel 22 may include a remaining number display unit that shows the remaining number of prize balls to be dispensed to the player. The information display panel 22 may also include a round number display unit that shows the number of rounds played during a jackpot game. Furthermore, the various display units of the information display panel 22 do not need to be provided on the same component (in the above embodiment, the information display panel 22); for example, some or all of the display units may be provided on a separate component from the other display units.

[0210] Next, the technical concepts that can be understood from the above embodiments and alternative examples are added below. (A-1) A gaming machine comprising a movable part, a manufacturer information unit capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine, and a brand information unit capable of displaying brand information that is at least partially different from the manufacturer information, wherein the movable part can take on at least a first position and a second position different from the first position, and at least when the position of the movable part is in the second position, the manufacturer information is visible in a front view, and when the position of the movable part changes from the second position to the first position, the visibility of the manufacturer information in a front view decreases.

[0211] (A-2) The gaming machine according to the technical concept of (A-1), wherein the brand information is visible in a front view when the position of the movable part is at least in the first position, and the visibility of the brand information in a front view decreases when the position of the movable part changes from the first position to the second position.

[0212] (A-3) A gaming machine according to the technical concept (A-1) or technical concept (A-2), wherein when the movable part is in the second position, there are cases in which only the manufacturer information of the manufacturer information and the brand information can be seen, and cases in which both the manufacturer information and the brand information can be seen simultaneously in a front view, and the frequency in which only the manufacturer information of the manufacturer information and the brand information can be seen when the movable part is in the second position is higher than the frequency in which both the manufacturer information and the brand information can be seen simultaneously in a front view when the movable part is in the second position.

[0213] (A-4) A gaming machine according to technical concept (A-1) or technical concept (A-2), wherein when the movable part is in the second position, there are cases in which only the manufacturer information among the manufacturer information and the brand information is visible, and cases in which both the manufacturer information and the brand information are visible simultaneously in a front view, and when the movable part is in the second position, the proportion in which only the manufacturer information among the manufacturer information and the brand information is visible is greater than the proportion in which both the manufacturer information and the brand information are visible simultaneously in a front view.

[0214] (B-1) A gaming machine comprising a movable part, a manufacturer information unit capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine, and a brand information unit capable of displaying brand information that is at least partially different from the manufacturer information, wherein the movable part can take on at least a first position and a second position different from the first position, and at least when the movable part is in the first position, the brand information is visible in a front view, and when the position of the movable part changes from the first position to the second position, the visibility of the brand information in a front view decreases.

[0215] (B-2) A gaming machine according to the technical concept of (B-1), which is equipped with an operable specific operating means, wherein when the position of the movable part is the second position, both the manufacturer information and the brand information may be visible simultaneously in a front view, and when the position of the movable part is the second position and both the manufacturer information and the brand information are visible simultaneously in a front view, when a specific condition is met, the machine is configured such that only the manufacturer information among the manufacturer information and the brand information becomes visible in a front view, and the specific condition can be met by operating the specific operating means.

[0216] (B-3) A gaming machine according to the technical concept (B-1) or technical concept (B-2), wherein when the movable part is in the second position, there are cases in which only the manufacturer information of the manufacturer information and the brand information can be seen, and cases in which both the manufacturer information and the brand information can be seen simultaneously in a front view, and the frequency in which only the manufacturer information of the manufacturer information and the brand information can be seen when the movable part is in the second position is higher than the frequency in which both the manufacturer information and the brand information can be seen simultaneously in a front view when the movable part is in the second position.

[0217] (B-4) A gaming machine according to Technical Concept (B-1) or Technical Concept (B-2), wherein when the movable part is in the second position, there are cases in which only the manufacturer information among the manufacturer information and the brand information is visible, and cases in which both the manufacturer information and the brand information are visible simultaneously in a front view, and when the movable part is in the second position, the proportion in which only the manufacturer information among the manufacturer information and the brand information is visible is greater than the proportion in which both the manufacturer information and the brand information are visible simultaneously in a front view.

[0218] (C-1) A gaming machine comprising: a manufacturer information unit capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine; a brand information unit capable of displaying brand information that is at least partially different from the manufacturer information; and an operable predetermined operating means, wherein in a first state, both the manufacturer information and the brand information may be visible simultaneously in a front view; in a second state different from the first state, at least the manufacturer information of the manufacturer information and the brand information can be visible in a front view; when transitioning to the second state while the brand information is visible in a front view in the first state, the visibility of the brand information in a front view decreases; and the transition to the second state is possible by operating the predetermined operating means.

[0219] (D-1) A gaming machine comprising: a manufacturer information unit capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine; a brand information unit capable of displaying brand information that is at least partially different from the manufacturer information; and an operable predetermined operating means, wherein when the number of manufacturer information displayed in the first state is set to the first number and the number of brand information displayed in the first state is set to the second number, the number of manufacturer information displayed in the second state, which is different from the first state, is set to the first number, and when transitioning from the first state to the second state, the number of brand information displayed decreases from the second number, and the transition to the second state is possible by operating the predetermined operating means.

[0220] (E-1) A gaming machine comprising: a manufacturer information unit capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine; a brand information unit capable of displaying brand information that is at least partially different from the manufacturer information; and an operable predetermined operating means, wherein the manufacturer information comprises first manufacturer information and second manufacturer information; the manufacturer information unit comprises a first manufacturer information unit capable of displaying the first manufacturer information and a second manufacturer information unit capable of displaying the second manufacturer information; when in a first state, both the first manufacturer information and the brand information are visible from the front, and the second manufacturer information is not visible from the front; when transitioning from the first state to a second state different from the first state, the second manufacturer information becomes visible, but the visibility of the first manufacturer information and the brand information from the front is reduced compared to when in the first state; and the transition to the second state is possible by operating the predetermined operating means.

[0221] (F-1) A gaming machine comprising: a manufacturer information unit capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine; a brand information unit capable of displaying brand information that is at least partially different from the manufacturer information; and an operable predetermined operating means, wherein the brand information comprises first brand information and second brand information; the brand information unit comprises a first brand information unit capable of displaying the first brand information and a second brand information unit capable of displaying the second brand information; when in a first state, the manufacturer information, the first brand information and the second brand information are visible from the front; when transitioning from the first state to a second state different from the first state, the visibility of the first brand information from the front decreases compared to when in the first state; and the transition to the second state is possible by operating the predetermined operating means. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0222] 10…Pachinko game machine (game machine) 11…Frame 12…Outer frame 13…Inner frame 14…Front frame 17…Decorative lamp 18…Speaker 22…Information display panel 22a…First special symbol display section 22b…Second special symbol display section 22c…First special hold display section 22d…Second special hold display section 22e…Normal symbol display section 22f…Normal hold display section 25…Performance display device 25r…Display area 26…First start opening 27…Second start opening 29…Big prize opening 33…Gate 38…Movable part 40…Main board 41…Main CPU 42…Main ROM 43…Main RWM 45…Clear switch 50…Sub board 51…Sub CPU 52…Sub ROM 53…Sub RWM 60…Power supply unit 61…Power switch 62…Backup power supply 70…Launch device 71…Touch sensor BD…Brand design BG…Brand image BG1…First brand image BG2…Second brand image BGx…Specific brand image BT…Operation button EA…Performance actuator PS1…Original position sensor PS2…Performance position sensor SA…Locking mechanism SG…Manufacturer image SG1…First manufacturer image SG2…Second manufacturer image SGx…Specific manufacturer image SS…Manufacturer's seal

Claims

1. A movable door section, A movable part different from the aforementioned door section, A manufacturer information unit capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine, It comprises a brand information unit capable of displaying brand information that differs in at least part from the manufacturer information, The movable part can assume at least one position: a first position and a second position different from the first position. In a predetermined state where the door portion is moved from a specific position to a predetermined position, when the position of the movable portion is the first position, the brand information is visible in a front view. In the predetermined state, when the position of the movable part is the first position, the manufacturer information is visible in a front view. In a specific state where the door portion is in the specific position, when the position of the movable portion is in the first position, the visibility of the manufacturer information is reduced compared to when the position of the movable portion is in the first position in the predetermined state. In the specified state, when the position of the movable part is the first position, the visibility of the brand information does not decrease compared to when the position of the movable part is the first position in the predetermined state. A gaming machine characterized in that, in the predetermined state, when the position of the movable part is the second position, the visibility of the brand information in a front view is lower than when it is in the first position.

2. A movable door section, A movable part different from the aforementioned door section, A manufacturer information unit capable of displaying manufacturer information that can identify the manufacturer of the gaming machine, It comprises a brand information unit capable of displaying brand information that differs in at least part from the manufacturer information, The states that the movable part can take include at least a first state and a second state that is different from the first state. In a predetermined state in which the door portion is moved from a specific position to a predetermined position, when the state of the movable portion is the first state, the brand information is visible in a front view. In the predetermined state, when the state of the movable part is the first state, the manufacturer information is visible in a front view. In a specific state where the door portion is in the specific position, when the state of the movable portion is in the first state, the visibility of the manufacturer information is reduced compared to when the state of the movable portion in the predetermined state is in the first state. In the predetermined state, when the state of the movable part is the second state, the visibility of the manufacturer information in a front view does not decrease compared to when it is the first state. A gaming machine characterized in that, in the predetermined state, when the state of the movable part is the second state, the visibility of the brand information in a front view is lower than when it is the first state.

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