Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine for enhancing interest in a game.SOLUTION: A specific game state includes at least a first section in which the number of variation times of remaining patterns to be executed is larger than a specific number of times and a second section in which the number of variation times of remaining patterns to be executed is equal to or less than a specific number of times, a lottery result includes a specific result, performance control means can execute a specific performance for suggesting a high degree of expectation of acquisition of a specific result during a variation in a pattern, and a degree of expectation that a lottery result is a specific result is higher when a specific performance occurs in the first section than in the second section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] As a gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine equipped with a gaming area where gaming balls (gaming values) move, a launching device for launching gaming balls into the gaming area, etc. is known. The pachinko gaming machine has a start port provided in the gaming area, and when the entry of a gaming ball into the start port is detected, a special symbol lottery is performed. If the result of the special symbol lottery is a big win, the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state, and a plurality of special games are executed in the special gaming state. In each special game, a large winning port provided in the gaming area operates in an open state, and gaming balls are paid out based on the entry of gaming balls into the large winning port.

[0003] In addition, in this type of gaming machine, when the gaming state shifts to a special short-time gaming state, the effect state becomes the first effect state, and then the effect state becomes the second effect state (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, in gaming machines, it is required to improve the interest of the game.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine with improved game interest.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] ​ A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means (performance control means 300) that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, A lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that conducts a lottery based on the entry of a game medium into a predetermined area (second starting opening 49) provided in the game area, A symbol display means (second special symbol display unit 81) capable of displaying a changing pattern, The system includes a state control means (game state transition control means 250) that controls the transition between multiple game states, including a normal game state (normal state) and a specific game state (time-saving state), The state control means can terminate the specific game state based on the fact that the number of times the symbols change in the specific game state reaches a predetermined number of times. The aforementioned specific game state includes at least a first section in which the number of remaining possible symbol variations is greater than a specified number, and a second section in which the number of remaining possible symbol variations is less than or equal to the specified number. The results of the aforementioned lottery include a specific result (a winner), The aforementioned performance control means is capable of executing a specific performance during the variation of the symbols that suggests a high probability of obtaining the specific result. In the second section, the probability of the lottery result being the specific outcome is higher than in the first section when the specific performance occurs.

[0008] In the second section, the probability of the lottery result being the specific outcome is higher when the specific performance occurs than in the first section. Therefore, it is possible to give players a different gameplay experience in the first and second sections, and the enjoyment of the game can be enhanced compared to when the "probability of the lottery result being the specific outcome when the specific performance occurs" is constant. In the second section, players will more strongly desire to obtain the specific outcome than in the first section, but in the second section, the "probability of the lottery result being the specific outcome is higher when the specific performance occurs," so when the specific performance occurs in the second section, the player's joy (expectation) will be even greater. In other words, it can excite the player. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the enjoyment of games can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating its external configuration. [Figure 2] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 3] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. [Figure 4] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the general configuration of a gaming machine. [Figure 6] The same diagram shows the jackpot lottery table. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing the pattern selection table. [Figure 8] This is a state transition diagram of the game state. [Figure 9] The figure also shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table used in the sub-variation pattern determination process. [Figure 10]It is a diagram showing an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table used in the sub-variation pattern determination process. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table used in the sub-variation pattern determination process. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table used in the sub-variation pattern determination process according to a modification example. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table used in the sub-variation pattern determination process according to a modification example.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, basically, "front and back" means that when a player is in front of the gaming machine, the player side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "back", "up and down" means that the upper surface side of the gaming machine is "up" and the lower surface side is "down", and "left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing on the gaming machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right".

[0012] Unlike conventional pachinko gaming machines, the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment enables the game to proceed without the player touching the game balls. The gaming machine 1 has an enclosed circulation type in which a certain number of game balls (game media) circulate inside the gaming machine. Further, the gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine in which game value as electronic information is used, and the game value is consumed or paid out by the game. Paying out the game value in the gaming machine 1 means electronically paying out (granting) the game value. Note that the invention according to the present embodiment is not limited to the gaming machine 1, and is also applicable to a conventional pachinko gaming machine, that is, a pachinko gaming machine having a specification in which a player can touch a physical game ball and the game ball is paid out to a tray based on the entry of the game ball into a predetermined winning hole.

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a gaming machine according to this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment comprises an outer frame 2 that forms the outer surface of the gaming machine, a game board 6 provided inside the gaming machine that forms a game area 4 on which game balls move, an inner frame 7 that holds the game board 6, a glass unit 8 that makes the game board 6 visible to the player but inaccessible to the player, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The front frame 10 is also attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) that blocks the opening of the outer frame 2 and an open position (open state) that opens the opening of the outer frame 2.

[0014] The portion of the front frame 10 surrounding the glass unit 8 is made of a light-transmitting translucent material, and multiple front frame lamps 12 that emit special effects lights to enhance the game are provided inside the translucent portion. In addition, speakers 14 (sound output means) that emit special effects sounds to enhance the game are provided on the left and right sides of the lower part of the front frame 10.

[0015] A grip unit 20 (handle) is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10. When a player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the game machine, a launching device (not shown) located inside the game machine is activated, and game balls are launched into the game area 4. The launching device in this embodiment can launch 99 game balls per minute (1.65 per second).

[0016] The front frame 10 is equipped with a performance button 26 (performance control means), and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance displayed on the game machine changes. The front frame 10 is also equipped with a directional pad 27 that can be pressed, a volume control button 25, and a light intensity control button 29.

[0017] As shown in Figure 2, a dedicated unit 400 (game value lending device, predetermined device) is provided on the side (left side) of the gaming machine 1 as a device for lending game value, and is connected to the gaming machine 1. The front of the dedicated unit 400 is provided with a banknote slot 406 into which banknotes can be inserted, a card insertion / discharge slot 402 into which cards (game value management media) can be inserted / discharged, a lending button (lending operation means) 403, a replay button (lending operation means) 404, and a card return button 405, etc. The card is used to manage the number of game value owned by the player. In other words, the number of game value owned by the player can be ascertained by the card. The card may also be capable of storing a prepaid balance. Furthermore, the management of the number of game values ​​using cards may be carried out by storing the number of game values ​​on the card itself, or by storing the number of game values ​​in a designated management device installed in the gaming hall, etc., and linking the number of game values ​​stored in the management device, etc. with the identification information stored on the card (such as the player's ID or the unique identification number for each card).

[0018] In the dedicated unit 400, an operation (press operation) on the lending button 403 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) that transfers game value to the game machine 1. When the lending button 403 is pressed, the stored value, etc., that is stored as a prepaid balance in the banknotes or cards inserted into the banknote slot 406 is consumed, and a predetermined number (for example, 125 units) of game value is credited to the game machine 1. In addition, in the dedicated unit 400, an operation (press operation) on the replay button 404 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) that transfers game value to the game machine 1. When the replay button 404 is pressed, the game value owned by the player, which is managed by the card (game value linked to the card), is consumed, and a predetermined number (for example, 125 units) of game value is credited to the game machine 1. In other words, in this embodiment, an operation on the loan button 403 or the replay button 404, which are loan operation means, is received as a loan operation (game value transfer operation), and based on the loan operation, a predetermined number of game values ​​are transferred (loaned) from the dedicated unit 400 to the game machine 1.

[0019] As shown in Figure 1, a game value display device (game ball count display device) 211 and a counting button (counting operation means) 212 are provided on the left side (dedicated unit 400 side) of the front frame 10. Based on the lending operation on the dedicated unit 400, the game machine 1 stores a value corresponding to a predetermined number of game values ​​in the game value storage area of ​​the frame control board 201, which will be described later. Hereinafter, the value shown in the game value storage area (stored value) will be called the "number of balls held" (number of balls held). The number of balls held can be said to be the number of game values ​​that can be used for playing. The number of balls held is displayed on the game value display device 211. The game value display device 211 has a 6-digit 7-segment display, and the number of balls held is displayed on the 7-segment display.

[0020] The gaming machine 1 is equipped with a frame control board 201 (see Figure 5), which controls the value (number of balls held) stored in the game value memory area. The frame control board 201 decreases the number of balls held based on the detection of a game ball being launched. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held based on the payout of prize balls. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held based on the detection of a foul ball. Furthermore, when game value is transferred from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1, the frame control board 201 increases the number of balls held by the amount of game value being transferred. Furthermore, when game value is transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400, the frame control board 201 decreases the number of balls held by the amount of game value being transferred. The frame control board 201 also controls the display of the number of balls held on the game value display device 211, and changes the display content of the game value display device 211 according to the increase or decrease in the number of balls held.

[0021] The counting button 212 is operated when sending (returning, transferring) all or part of the number of balls held (game value stored in the game value memory area) to the dedicated unit 400. The counting button 212 is equipped with a press part (operation part), and the press part is formed to be pressable. When a player finishes playing, they operate (press) the counting button 212 as a counting operation (return operation). When the counting button 212 is operated, a predetermined number of game values ​​are transferred from the game machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400. After the game values ​​have been transferred to the dedicated unit 400, when the card return button 405 of the dedicated unit 400 is operated (pressed), a card that allows the player to know the number of game values ​​they possess is ejected from the dedicated unit 400 (card insertion / discharge port 402).

[0022] Figure 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6. The game board 6 is provided with a circular outer rail 28, and the area enclosed by the outer rail 28 is the game area 4 on which the game balls move. In addition, an inner rail 30 is provided in an arc shape along the outer rail 28 at the left end of the game area 4, and the outer rail 28 and inner rail 30 guide the game balls launched from a launching device (not shown) located below the game board 6 into the game area 4.

[0023] In the center of the game board 6, there is a performance unit 36 ​​which includes a liquid crystal display 32 (performance display device, display means) that displays performance images and the like to enhance the game, and a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. Above the center of the liquid crystal display 32, there is a lighting device 38 (lighting means) which constitutes the performance unit 36 ​​and outputs performance lights and the like to enhance the game.

[0024] In this embodiment, the game balls are prevented from passing in front of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game balls launched from the launcher fall into either the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 or the game area 4b on the right side. In addition, numerous game pins (not shown) are driven into the game area 4 so as to intersect with the surface of the game board 6, causing the direction of movement of the game balls as they move through the game area 4 to change randomly.

[0025] Furthermore, an opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34, through which game balls falling from the game area 4a to the left of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass. Game balls that pass through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 located below the liquid crystal display 32. The upper surface of this stage 44 is a smooth curved surface, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8, allowing game balls to fall downwards from the stage 44. Game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth on the stage 44 before falling downwards from near the center of the stage 44.

[0026] Below the center of the stage 44, there is a first start opening 46 (first area) into which game balls (including game balls that have fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44) can enter. Inside the first start opening 46, there is a first start opening switch 100 (see Figure 5) that detects game balls that have entered the first start opening 46. When the first start opening switch 100 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the first start opening 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the detection signal input from the first start opening switch 100, the main control board 200 executes a first special symbol lottery (first lottery) as a special symbol lottery. The main control board 200 also executes a payout of prize balls (for example, 1 ball) based on the detection signal input from the first start opening switch 100. Game balls that have entered the first start opening 46 are collected inside the game machine.

[0027] To the left of the first start opening 46 in the game area 4, there are multiple (3) general prize openings 47 (upper left general prize opening 47a, left-center general prize opening 47b, and lower left general prize opening 47c). The game board 6 is also equipped with a general prize opening switch 101 (see Figure 5) that detects game balls that enter the upper left general prize opening 47a, left-center general prize opening 47b, or lower left general prize opening 47c. When the general prize opening switch 101 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the upper left general prize opening 47a, left-center general prize opening 47b, or lower left general prize opening 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then dispenses prize balls (for example, 3 balls) based on the detection signal input from the general prize opening switch 101. Furthermore, one general prize slot switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general prize slot 47a, the left middle general prize slot 47b, and the lower left general prize slot 47c, or one may be provided for multiple (for example, three) general prize slots 47. In addition, general prize slots 47 and general prize slot switches corresponding to these general prize slots may also be provided.

[0028] A passage gate 48 is provided in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, through which game balls pass without being collected inside the game machine. A gate switch 102 (see Figure 5) is also installed inside the passage gate 48 to detect when a game ball has passed through. When the gate switch 102 detects a game ball (passing through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then performs a regular symbol lottery to determine whether a regular win has occurred, based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102.

[0029] In the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, a second start port 49 (second area, predetermined area) is provided below the passage gate 48. A second start port switch 103 (see Figure 5) is also installed inside the second start port 49 to detect game balls that have entered the second start port 49. When the second start port switch 103 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the second start port 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then executes a second special symbol lottery (second lottery) as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. The main control board 200 also executes the payout of prize balls (for example, 1 ball) based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. Game balls that have entered the second start port 49 are collected inside the game machine.

[0030] The second starting opening 49 is provided with a standard mechanism 54 (first movable part) that can operate between a reduced state (closed state) (a state in which it is difficult for game balls to enter the second starting opening 49) and an enlarged state (open state) (a state in which it is easy for game balls to enter the second starting opening 49). The standard mechanism 54 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid and is controlled to enter the enlarged state under predetermined conditions when a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery.

[0031] Furthermore, a large prize slot 50 (third area) is provided in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32. A count switch 104 (see Figure 5) for detecting game balls that have entered the large prize slot 50 is also installed inside the large prize slot 50. When the count switch 104 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the large prize slot 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then dispenses prize balls (for example, 15 balls) based on the detection signal input from the count switch 104. The main control board 200 also counts the number of game balls that have entered the large prize slot 50 based on the detection signal input from the count switch 104. The game balls that have entered the large prize slot 50 are then collected inside the game machine.

[0032] The large prize opening 50 is equipped with a special mechanism 56 (second movable part, specific movable part) that can operate between a closed state (impossible entry state) in which game balls cannot enter the large prize opening 50 and an open state (impossible entry state) in which game balls can enter. The special mechanism 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid and is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in the special game state which is started when a big win is achieved in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery). The special mechanism 56 is also controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in the minor win game state which is started when a minor win is achieved in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery).

[0033] The large prize opening 50 is provided with a specific area (not shown), a discharge area (not shown), and a distribution means (not shown) that distributes game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to either the specific area or the discharge area. A specific area switch 107 (see Figure 5) is provided in the specific area. The specific area switch 107 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 based on the detection of game balls passing through the specific area (passage of the specific area by game balls). The distribution means can be switched between a specific area passage state, in which game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area, and a non-specific area passage state, in which game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the discharge area. That is, when the distribution means is switched to the specific area passage state, game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area. As a result, it becomes impossible for game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to pass through the discharge area. On the other hand, when the sorting means is displaced to a non-specific area passage state, game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are sorted to the discharge area. This makes it impossible for game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to pass through the specific area. The sorting means is displaced by the specific area solenoid. Game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are first detected by the count switch 104, and then sorted by the sorting means to either the specific area or the discharge area, and after passing through that area, are discharged to the discharge path. At this time, game balls sorted to the specific area are detected by the specific area switch 107.

[0034] At the bottom of the game area 4, there is an outlet 62 for collecting game balls that fall out of the game area 4 without entering any of the prize winning holes 46, 47, 49, or 50 into the game machine. Inside the game machine, there is an outlet passage (not shown) through which the game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass. In this game machine, all game balls launched into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) pass through the outlet passage. That is, game balls launched into the game area 4 are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the outlet passage by entering any of the prize winning holes 46, 47, 49, or 50 or by passing through the outlet 62. Specifically, game balls that enter each prize winning hole 46, 47, 49, or 50 are detected by switches 100, 101, 103, or 104 located inside the prize winning hole, and then guided into the outlet passage. Furthermore, the game balls collected from the outlet 62 are guided to the discharge path. An out switch 106 (see Figure 5) is also installed in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects game balls passing through the discharge path (discharge of game balls from the game area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then counts the number of game balls discharged from the game area 4 based on the detection signal input from the out switch 106.

[0035] The game ball launching device is configured such that the launch output of the game balls changes by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in Figure 1. When the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game balls are launched so that they fall into the game area 4a (first game area 4a, left-handed area) on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game balls are launched so that they fall into the game area 4b (second game area 4b, right-handed area) on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32.

[0036] The player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 according to the game situation to launch the game ball so that it falls through the left game area 4a, or passes through the opening 40, passage 42, and stage 44 and enters the first starting opening 46 (left-handed shot), or launches the game ball so that it falls through the right game area 4b, passes through the passage gate 48, or enters the second starting opening 49, or enters the large prize opening 50 (right-handed shot). In this embodiment, left-handed shot may be called the first game method, and right-handed shot may be called the second game method.

[0037] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when a game ball falls through the left-side game area 4a, the game ball does not pass through the passage gate 48, and therefore does not enter (win) the second starting opening 49 or the large prize opening 50. Also, when a game ball falls through the right-side game area 4b, the game ball does not enter the first starting opening 46 or the general prize opening 47.

[0038] As shown in Figure 3, a status indicator unit 70 is provided in the lower right part of the game board 6, outside the game area 4, which indicates the various states of the game machine by turning on and off lamps or the like.

[0039] Figure 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. The status display unit 70 is equipped with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal hold display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special hold display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 81, a second special hold display unit 82, and a game status display unit 84.

[0040] The regular symbol display unit 72 is composed of two lamps. When a regular symbol lottery is held, the two lamps flash to display a changing regular symbol, and the two lamps light up or turn off to display a stopped regular symbol, thereby displaying the result of the regular symbol lottery.

[0041] The normal hold display unit 74 consists of two lamps and displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of normal hold numbers that are held, when a normal symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state when a game ball passes through the passage gate 48, or when a normal symbol lottery cannot be performed even if a random value for normal symbol lottery is acquired. The normal hold number is displayed by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps.

[0042] The first special symbol display unit 76 is composed of a 7-segment display. When a game ball enters the first start opening 46 and a lottery for the first special symbol is held, the 7-segment display flashes to display the first special symbol in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display lights up in one of several different modes to display the first special symbol in a stationary state, thereby displaying the result of the lottery for the first special symbol.

[0043] The first special reserve display unit 78 consists of two lamps and displays the number of first special reserves corresponding to the number of first special random values ​​that are being held in reserve when, for example, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state when a game ball enters the first start opening 46, and even if a random value for special symbol lottery (lottery information) is acquired, a special symbol lottery cannot be performed. The first special reserve display unit 78 displays 0 to 4 first special reserves by combining the lighting, extinguishing, or flashing of the two lamps.

[0044] The second special symbol display unit 81 is composed of a 7-segment display. When a game ball enters the second start opening 49 and a second special symbol lottery is held, the 7-segment display flashes to display the second special symbol in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display lights up in one of several different modes to display the second special symbol in a stationary state, thereby displaying the result of the second special symbol lottery.

[0045] The second special reserve display unit 82 consists of two lamps and displays the number of second special reserves corresponding to the number of second special reserves that are being held in reserve when, for example, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state when a game ball enters the second start opening 49, and even if a random value for special symbol lottery is acquired, a special symbol lottery cannot be performed. The second special reserve display unit 82 displays 0 to 4 second special reserves by combining the lighting, extinguishing, or flashing of the two lamps.

[0046] The game state display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and the type of game state currently set is displayed by the combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the six lamps. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, multiple game states can be set, including a normal state, a time-saving state, and a special game state. In the time-saving state, compared to the normal state, the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is shortened, and the trigger for executing the special symbol lottery occurs more frequently.

[0047] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board that includes a main control board 200 (main control means), a sub-control board 202 (sub-control means), and a frame control board 201. The functions of the main control board 200, sub-control board 202, and frame control board 201 are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, and software consisting of a given program pre-stored in ROM, etc.

[0048] The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the gate switch 102, the first start gate switch 100, the second start gate switch 103, the general prize gate switch 101, the count switch 104, the out switch 106, and the specific area switch 107, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the regular prize 54 and the special prize 56 based on the calculation results.

[0049] The sub-control board 202 receives signals from the main control board 200 and input signals from the performance button switch 150, performs various calculations to execute performances in accordance with the progress of the game, and controls the operation of performance devices such as the front frame lamp 12, speaker 14, liquid crystal display 32, and lighting device 38 based on the calculation results.

[0050] The frame control board 201 receives signals from the main control board 200 and input signals from the counting buttons 212, and performs control related to the number of balls held (game balls), as well as control of the game value display device 211, etc. The frame control board 201 is capable of bidirectional communication with the main control board 200.

[0051] The main control board 200 is composed of a random number generation means 210, a normal symbol lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal bonus item control means 224, a special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means), a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250 (state control means), a special game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290, among others.

[0052] The random number generation means 210 is a means for generating random numbers for the lottery, and is implemented by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers or a program that generates software random numbers. Software random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to cycle within a predetermined count range). In this embodiment, "random numbers" include not only values ​​that are generated randomly in a mathematical sense, but also values ​​that, even if their generation is regular, can function as effectively random numbers because the timing of their acquisition is irregular.

[0053] The normal symbol lottery means 220, based on the input of a detection signal from the gate switch 102 which detects each game ball passing through the passage gate 48, obtains a random value for normal symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 and stores it in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290. The normal symbol lottery is then performed to determine whether a normal win occurs based on the random value for normal symbol lottery read from the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0054] In detail, the ordinary random number storage means 2912 is provided with four ordinary hold storage areas, ordinary hold storage area 1 to ordinary hold storage area 4, as storage areas for storing the acquired ordinary symbol lottery random values, and one ordinary hold storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the ordinary symbol lottery random values ​​read from ordinary hold storage area 1 and used for the ordinary symbol lottery until the display of the changing and stopping of the ordinary symbols is finished. Then, when the normal symbol lottery means 220 obtains a random value for normal symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210, if the random value for normal symbol lottery is not stored in any of the normal hold memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the obtained random value for normal symbol lottery in normal hold memory area 1. Then, when the random value for normal symbol lottery is stored in normal hold memory area 1, if the normal symbol is not in a fluctuating display or stopped display, that is, if the random value for normal symbol lottery is not stored in the normal hold memory area and control to open the normal mechanism 54 is not being executed, it immediately reads the random value for normal symbol lottery from normal hold memory area 1 and performs a normal symbol lottery, and stores the random value for normal symbol lottery obtained from the normal symbol lottery in the normal hold memory area. On the other hand, if the regular symbols are in a variable display state or stopped display state, that is, if a random value for the regular symbol lottery is stored in the regular symbol hold memory area, or if control is being executed to open the regular mechanism 54, the random value for the regular symbol lottery is held in the regular symbol hold memory area 1.

[0055] Then, if a random value for normal symbol lottery is already held in the normal hold memory area 1, and a detection signal is input from the gate switch 102 to acquire a random value for normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol lottery means 220, on the condition that the number of random values ​​for normal symbol lottery held in normal hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, on the condition that the number of normal hold values ​​is less than 4, stores the random value for normal symbol lottery in the normal hold memory area with the smallest ordinal number among normal hold memory areas 1 to 4 that does not currently hold a random value for normal symbol lottery.

[0056] Then, when the display of the variation and stop of the normal symbols is finished, the normal symbol lottery means 220 erases the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal reserve memory area. If there are random values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in normal reserve memory area 1, and provided that control to open the normal mechanism 54 is not currently being executed, it reads the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery from normal reserve memory area 1 to perform a normal symbol lottery, and stores the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery that were used in the normal symbol lottery in the normal reserve memory area. If there are any remaining random values ​​for normal symbol lottery in normal reserve memory area 2 or later, the remaining random values ​​for normal symbol lottery are moved from the original normal reserve memory area to a normal reserve memory area with an ordinal number one smaller. For example, if there are any remaining random values ​​for normal symbol lottery in normal reserve memory area 2 to normal reserve memory area 3, they are moved to normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 2.

[0057] Thus, in the ordinary random number storage means 2912, random numbers for ordinary symbol lottery in which an ordinary symbol lottery has been conducted are stored in the ordinary reserve storage area up to a maximum of 1, and random numbers for ordinary symbol lottery in which an ordinary symbol lottery has not been conducted are stored in ordinary reserve storage areas 1 to 4 up to a maximum of 4.

[0058] The regular symbol lottery means 220 performs a regular win determination process as part of the regular symbol lottery.

[0059] The normal win determination process is the process of determining whether a "normal win" has occurred. In the normal win determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects, according to the game state, which of the multiple normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to for random number determination processing. Here, each normal symbol lottery table has either a "normal win" or a "miss" associated with each of the 100 normal symbol lottery random values ​​from 0 to 99. The normal symbol lottery means 220 then refers to the selected normal symbol lottery table and determines whether a normal win has been achieved by determining whether one of the normal symbol lottery random values ​​read from the normal random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal win.

[0060] The regular symbol lottery table selected when the game state is in a time-saving state has a higher probability of winning a "regular win" compared to the regular symbol lottery table selected when the game state is not in a time-saving state. In other words, the regular symbol lottery conducted when the game state is in a time-saving state has a higher probability of winning a "regular win" compared to the regular symbol lottery conducted when the game state is not in a time-saving state.

[0061] The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing.

[0062] In the normal symbol display control process, the normal display control means 222 causes the normal symbols to change and display by flashing the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed. In the normal win determination process, depending on whether or not a "normal win" has been won, the normal symbol display unit 72 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 to stop the normal symbols, thereby displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol display unit 72.

[0063] In this embodiment, the time it takes for the regular symbols to change is determined according to the game state at the time the regular symbols are drawn. Specifically, if the game state is a time-saving state, the time it takes for the regular symbols to change is set to be shorter than if the game state is not a time-saving state. For example, if the game state is not a time-saving state at the time the regular symbols are drawn, the time it takes for the regular symbols to change is set to the first hour (e.g., 20 seconds), and if the game state is a time-saving state at the time the regular symbols are drawn, the time it takes for the regular symbols to change is set to the second hour (e.g., 1 second), which is shorter than the first hour. Therefore, the opportunity to draw regular symbols occurs more frequently when the game state is a time-saving state.

[0064] In the normal hold display control process, the normal display control means 222 displays 0 to 4 normal hold numbers by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74, according to the number of random values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0065] The ordinary prize control means 224 is a means for controlling the ordinary prize 54 based on the result of the ordinary symbol lottery. When the game state is not the time-saving state, the ordinary prize control means 224 controls the ordinary prize 54 to expand until a time A (for example, 0.1 seconds) has elapsed, and then return to the reduced state, triggered by the ordinary symbol stopping and displaying in a manner indicating a "regular win". Furthermore, when the game state is the time-saving state, the ordinary prize control means 224 controls the ordinary prize 54 to expand until a time B (for example, 6 seconds) that is longer than time A has elapsed, and then return to the reduced state, triggered by the ordinary symbol stopping and displaying in a manner indicating a "regular win".

[0066] Therefore, in the case of a regular symbol draw, if the game state is not a time-saving state, the regular mechanism 54 operates in such a way that the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 does not increase significantly. However, if the game state is a time-saving state, the regular mechanism 54 operates in such a way that the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 increases. In this embodiment, the regular mechanism 54 is controlled to operate in a time-saving state so that it is easier for the game ball to enter the second start opening 49 than in the normal state. Thus, the time-saving state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

[0067] The special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means) obtains a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on a detection signal input from the first start-up switch 100, which detects each game ball entering the first start-up 46, and stores it as the first special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. The special symbol lottery means 230 also obtains a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on a detection signal input from the second start-up switch 103, which detects each game ball entering the second start-up 49, and stores it as the second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914. The special symbol lottery means 230 uses the first or second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won.

[0068] The special random number storage means 2914 is provided with four first special reserve storage areas, from the first special reserve storage area 1 to the first special reserve storage area 4, as storage areas for storing the acquired first special random number value. One first special reserve storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the first special random number value read from the first special reserve storage area 1 and used for the special symbol lottery, until the variation display and stop display of the first special symbol are completed.

[0069] When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the first start switch 100 and acquires a random value for special symbol lottery, if the first special random value is not stored in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the acquired random value for special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area 1 as the first special random value. Then, when the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, if the first special symbol is not being displayed in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the first special random value is not stored in the first special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a minor win game is not being executed, it immediately reads the first special random value from the first special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area. On the other hand, if the first special symbol is in a variable display state or stopped display state, that is, if the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area, or if the game state is a special game state, or if a minor win game is being played, the first special random value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1.

[0070] Then, if a detection signal is input from the first start switch 100 while a first special random value is being held in the first special hold memory area 1, and a random value for special symbol lottery is obtained, the special symbol lottery means 230 stores the first special random value in the first special hold memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the first special hold memory areas 1 to 4, which is a hold memory area where no first special random value is being held and which has the smallest ordinal number, provided that the number of first special random values ​​being held in the first special hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, provided that the number of first special holds is less than 4.

[0071] The special random number storage means 2914 is provided with four second special reserve storage areas, second special reserve storage area 1 to second special reserve storage area 4, as storage areas for storing the acquired second special random number values. One second special reserve storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the second special random number values ​​read from second special reserve storage area 1 and used for the special symbol lottery, until the variation display and stop display of the second special symbol are completed.

[0072] When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the second start switch 103 and acquires a random value for special symbol lottery, if the second special random value is not stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the acquired random value for special symbol lottery in the second special reserve memory area 1 as the second special random value. Then, when the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1, if the second special symbol is not being displayed in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the second special random value is not stored in the second special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a minor win game is not being executed, it immediately reads the second special random value from the second special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and stores the second special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the second special reserve memory area. On the other hand, if the second special symbol is in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area, or if the game state is a special game state, or if a minor win game is being played, the second special random value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1.

[0073] Then, if a detection signal is input from the second start switch 103 while a second special random value is being held in the second special hold memory area 1, and a random value for special symbol lottery is obtained, the special symbol lottery means 230, on the condition that the number of second special random values ​​being held in the second special hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, on the condition that the number of second special holds is less than 4, stores the second special random value in the second special hold memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the second special hold memory areas 1 to 4 where no second special random values ​​are being held.

[0074] When the variation and stop display of the first special symbol is finished, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the first special random value stored in the first special reserve memory area. If the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, and provided that the game state is not a special game state and a minor win game is not in progress, the special symbol lottery means 230 reads the first special random value from the first special reserve memory area 1, performs a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area. Furthermore, when the variation and stop display of the second special symbol is finished, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the second special random value stored in the second special reserve memory area. Then, if a second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1, and provided that the game state is not a special game state and a minor win game is not in progress, the second special random value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and the second special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery is stored in the second special reserve memory area. In this embodiment, since the first special random value and the second special random value are processed in parallel, the display of the second special symbol may start while the first special symbol is being displayed, or the display of the first special symbol may start while the second special symbol is being displayed.

[0075] Furthermore, if the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, the first special random value may be read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery may be performed, provided that the second special random value is not stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4. If the second special random value is stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, even if the first special random value is stored in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, the second special random value may be read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery may be performed. In other words, the second special random value may be processed with priority over the first special random value. In addition, regardless of whether it is the first or second special random value, the first or second special random value may be read in the order in which it was stored in the special random number storage means 2914 and a special symbol lottery may be performed. In other words, the first special random value or the second special random value may be processed in the order in which the game balls enter the first starting opening 46 or the second starting opening 49.

[0076] When the first special random value is read from the first special reserved memory area 1, if the first special random value remains in the first special reserved memory area 2 or later, or when the second special random value is read from the second special reserved memory area 1, if the second special random value remains in the second special reserved memory area 2 or later, the remaining first or second special random value is moved from its original special reserved memory area to a special reserved memory area with an ordinal number one less. For example, when the first special random value is read from the first special reserved memory area 1, if there are still first special random values ​​remaining in each of the first special reserved memory areas 2 to 4, the first special random values ​​stored in each of the first special reserved memory areas 2 to 4 are moved to each of the first special reserved memory areas 1 to 3. Similarly, when the second special random value is read from the second special reserved memory area 1, if there are still second special random values ​​remaining in each of the second special reserved memory areas 2 to 3, the second special random values ​​stored in each of the second special reserved memory areas 2 to 3 are moved to each of the second special reserved memory areas 1 to 2.

[0077] In the special random number storage means 2914, up to four first special random numbers for which no special symbol draw has been performed are stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 to the first special reserve storage area 4. In addition, up to four second special random numbers for which no special symbol draw has been performed are stored in the second special reserve storage area 1 to the second special reserve storage area 4.

[0078] Next, the details of the special symbol lottery will be explained. Based on the detection signal input from the first start switch 100 or the second start switch 103, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires multiple types of random numbers as random numbers for special symbol lottery, such as a jackpot determination random number and a symbol determination random number, and stores these multiple types of random numbers in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number or the second special random number. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs jackpot determination processing, symbol determination processing, etc., as part of the special symbol lottery.

[0079] The jackpot determination process involves reading one jackpot determination random number from the first special random number or second special random number stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 or second special reserve storage area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914, and determining whether a jackpot has been won or not. Here, one jackpot determination random number is obtained from 65,536 jackpot determination random numbers ranging from 0 to 65,535 based on a detection signal input from the first start switch 100 or the second start switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number or second special random number.

[0080] In the jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple types of jackpot lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to for random number determination processing, depending on whether the read jackpot determination random number was stored as the first special random number or the second special random number.

[0081] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores the jackpot lottery table A shown in Figure 6(a) and the jackpot lottery table B shown in Figure 6(b). In each jackpot lottery table, a jackpot is associated with each of the 65,536 random jackpot determination values ​​ranging from 0 to 65,535.

[0082] The jackpot lottery table A is selected when performing a jackpot determination process for the first special random value, and the correspondence between each judgment result and the jackpot determination random value is set so that a "jackpot" is won with a probability of 1 / 350 (187 / 65536) and a "miss" is won with a probability of 349 / 350 (65349 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the jackpot lottery table A and determines whether a "jackpot" or a "miss" has been won by determining whether the jackpot determination random value read from the first special reserve memory area 1 is associated with a "jackpot" or a "miss". In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "jackpot" or a "loss" in the first special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state.

[0083] The jackpot lottery table B is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the second special random value, and the correspondence between each judgment result and the jackpot determination random value is set so that a "jackpot" is won with a probability of 1 / 350 (187 / 65536) and a "minor win" is won with a probability of 1 / 139.8 (469 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the jackpot lottery table B and determines whether a "jackpot" or "minor win" has been won by determining whether the jackpot determination random value read from the second special reserve memory area 1 is associated with a "jackpot" or a "minor win". In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "big win" or a "minor win" in the second special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state. In the second special symbol lottery, there are cases where a win (big win or minor win) is achieved, and cases where no win is achieved.

[0084] The symbol determination process is performed when a "jackpot" or "minor win" is achieved during the jackpot determination process. The symbol determination process reads one symbol determination random number from the first special random number or second special random number stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 or second special reserve storage area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914. If a "jackpot" is achieved, the process determines which of the multiple jackpot symbols will be the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot), and if a "minor win" is achieved, the process determines which of the multiple minor win symbols will be the minor win symbol (type of minor win). Here, one symbol determination random number is obtained from 200 symbol determination random numbers from 0 to 199 based on detection signals input from the first start switch 100 and the second start switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number or second special random number.

[0085] In the pattern determination process, the special pattern lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple pattern lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 to refer to for random number determination processing, depending on whether the random number value read out was stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0086] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores the pattern lottery table A shown in Figure 7(a), the pattern lottery table B shown in Figure 7(b), and the pattern lottery table C shown in Figure 7(c). In each pattern lottery table, a predetermined pattern is associated with each of the random numbers used to determine the pattern.

[0087] The symbol selection table A shown in Figure 7(a) is selected when a "jackpot" is won and one of the read symbol determination random values ​​is stored as the first special random value. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random value is set up so that "Big Win 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 0.1 / 100 and "Big Win 2" (7R time reduction 130) is won with a probability of 99.9 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table A and determines which of the multiple types of big win symbols is associated with the single symbol determination random value it has read, thereby determining which of the multiple types of big win symbols has been won.

[0088] The symbol lottery table B shown in Figure 7(b) is selected when a "jackpot" is won and one of the read symbol determination random values ​​is stored as the second special random value. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random value is set so that "jackpot 3" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 12.8 / 100 and "jackpot 4" (10R time reduction 130) is won with a probability of 87.2 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table B and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols is associated with one of the read symbol determination random values, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0089] The symbol lottery table C shown in Figure 7(c) is selected when a "minor win" is achieved and the read symbol determination random number is stored as the second special random number. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number is set so that "minor win 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 20 / 100 and "minor win 2" (10R time reduction 130) is won with a probability of 80 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table C and determines which of the multiple types of minor win symbols is associated with the read symbol determination random number, thereby determining which of the multiple types of minor win symbols has been won.

[0090] The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the result of the special symbol lottery, and performs the execution process of the special game. The special game execution means 260 is also a means for executing a minor win game based on the fact that a "minor win" has been won in the special symbol lottery, and performs the execution process of the minor win game.

[0091] The special game state is initiated when a "jackpot" is won in the special symbol lottery (either the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery), and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (executions) of special game (jackpot game) are performed according to the type (category) of jackpot symbol. If the special game state is initiated when "jackpot 1", "jackpot 3", or "jackpot 4" is won in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends after 10 rounds of special game (rounds 1 to 10) have been performed. If the special game state is initiated when "jackpot 2" is won in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends after 7 rounds of special game (rounds 1 to 7) have been performed. As will be explained in more detail later, if a "jackpot" is won in the special symbol lottery, a predetermined number of time-saving rounds corresponding to the jackpot symbol are set and a time-saving round begins at the end of the special game state.

[0092] The minor win game state is initiated based on winning a "minor win" in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery), and ends when the minor win game is played a predetermined number of times (1 time in this embodiment). During the minor win game, the special mechanism 56 opens to allow game balls to enter the large prize opening 50, and the distribution means is changed from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state. Specifically, during the minor win game, the distribution means is changed from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state so that game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 during the execution of the minor win game can easily (make possible) pass through the specific area. As a result, if either "minor win 1" or "minor win 2" is won in the second special symbol lottery, it becomes easy (possible) for game balls to pass through the specific area during the minor win game state. Furthermore, if it is detected that a game ball has passed through a specific area during a minor win game (for example, if a game ball that has entered the big prize slot 50 during the execution of a minor win game has passed through a specific area), a special game state will be started based on the end of the minor win game state.

[0093] If you win "Minor Win 1" in the second special symbol lottery and the passing of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the minor win game state, the number of special games (round games) will be set to 9. This will result in 10 rounds being executed, with the minor win game being the first round game. The special game state will then end after 10 rounds of special games have been executed. Also, if you win "Minor Win 2" in the second special symbol lottery and the passing of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the minor win game state, the number of special games (round games) will be set to 9. This will result in 10 rounds being executed, with the minor win game being the first round game. The special game state will then end after 10 rounds of special games have been executed. As will be explained in more detail later, when the special game state ends, a predetermined number of time-saving rounds corresponding to the minor win symbol will be set, and the time-saving round state will begin. Furthermore, if the passage of a game ball through a specific area is not detected during a minor win game (i.e., if the passage of a game ball that entered the large prize slot 50 during the execution of a minor win game is not detected), the special game state will not start, and the normal state will begin.

[0094] In this embodiment, during the special game (including the minor win game) of each round, when the special mechanism 56 is in the open state, the open timer in the main memory 290 counts a predetermined time (29 seconds), or when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, the value of the big win counter (not shown) in the main memory 290, which adds a value equivalent to one game ball (e.g., 1), reaches its upper limit (e.g., 10), and the special mechanism drive device is driven to close the special mechanism 56. In this embodiment, the term "special game" may include minor win games. Also, the term "special game" is not limited to a single round game, but may refer to an entire round game consisting of multiple rounds (e.g., a 10R special game).

[0095] The special display control means 240 performs a first special symbol display control process, a second special symbol display control process, a first special hold display control process, and a second special hold display control process based on the results of the special symbol lottery.

[0096] The first special symbol display control process is performed when a first special random value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is held. The special display control means 240 displays the first special symbol in a variable state by blinking the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 until the variable time has elapsed, and then displays the first special symbol in a fixed state by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

[0097] The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process) as a special symbol lottery, and the special display control means 240 displays the first special symbol in a variation by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 until a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then displays the first special symbol in a stopped state by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

[0098] In this embodiment, the display patterns of the 7-segment display are predetermined to correspond to the jackpot symbols and the minor jackpot symbols, respectively. The special display control means 240, in the jackpot determination process, lights up the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a manner that corresponds to whether or not a "jackpot" has been won, and if a "jackpot" has been won in the jackpot determination process, in a manner that corresponds to the jackpot symbol determined in the symbol determination process, thereby stopping the display of the first special symbol and displaying the result of the special symbol lottery on the first special symbol display unit 76.

[0099] The second special symbol display control process is performed when a second special random value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is conducted. The special display control means 240 displays the second special symbol in a variable state by blinking the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 until the variable time has elapsed, and then displays the second special symbol in a fixed state by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a predetermined manner.

[0100] The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process) as a special symbol lottery, and the special display control means 240 displays the second special symbol in a variation by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 until a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then displays the second special symbol in a stopped state by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a predetermined manner.

[0101] The special display control means 240, in the jackpot determination process, lights up the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a manner that corresponds to whether or not a "jackpot" or "minor win" has been won, and if a "jackpot" has been won in the jackpot determination process, in a manner that corresponds to the jackpot symbol determined in the symbol determination process, and if a "minor win" has been won in the jackpot determination process, in a manner that corresponds to the minor win symbol determined in the symbol determination process, thereby stopping the display of the second special symbol and displaying the result of the special symbol lottery on the second special symbol display unit 81.

[0102] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 first special hold numbers by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78, according to the number of first special random values ​​stored in the special random number storage means 2914.

[0103] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 second special hold numbers by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82, according to the number of second special random values ​​stored in the special random number storage means 2914.

[0104] In this embodiment, a relatively short fluctuation time is set if a win is not achieved, and a relatively long fluctuation time can be set in both cases: when a win is achieved and when a win is achieved. Furthermore, in the time-saving state, a short fluctuation time is relatively often set as the fluctuation time for the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and the frequency of triggering the special symbol lottery is increased.

[0105] The special symbol lottery means 230 (pre-determination means) also performs pre-determination processing such as jackpot determination processing, symbol determination processing, and variation pattern determination processing when storing the first special random value or the second special random value in the special random number storage means 2914. When the special symbol lottery means 230 obtains a random value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start switch 100 or the second start switch 103, it performs pre-determination processing such as jackpot determination processing, symbol determination processing, and variation pattern determination processing for the first special random value or the second special random value, depending on the game state and the number of reserved numbers at that time, before storing it as the first special random value in one of the first special reserved storage areas 1 to 4, or before storing it as the second special random value in one of the second special reserved storage areas 1 to 4. Furthermore, the pre-determination process may be configured to have dedicated pre-determination processes (jackpot pre-determination process, symbol pre-determination process) rather than being the same process (for example, a lottery process based on the same table) as the jackpot determination process and symbol determination process that are executed when fluctuations based on the random values ​​for special symbol lottery that are actually stored as pending are performed.

[0106] The special symbol lottery means 230 transmits the pre-determination results, including the results of the jackpot determination process and the symbol determination process, which are pre-determination processes, to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) as pre-determination result information, and stores the first special random value that was the subject of the pre-determination process in one of the first special reserve storage areas 1 to 4 (or stores it in one of the second special reserve storage areas 1 to 4 in one of the second special reserve storage areas 1 to 4, which was the subject of the pre-determination process).

[0107] In this embodiment, if a "big win" is achieved in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery), a special game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the game ball into the big prize slot 50. Also, if a "minor win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, a minor win game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the game ball into the big prize slot 50. When it is detected that a game ball that has entered the big prize slot 50 has passed through a specific area in the minor win game state, a special game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the game ball into the big prize slot 50. By getting game balls into the big prize slot 50, the player can win many prize balls. In this embodiment, the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the second special symbol lottery is higher than the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the first special symbol lottery. Specifically, in the first special symbol lottery, there is no "minor win" option in the lottery results, and the game transitions to the special game state only if a "big win" is achieved. On the other hand, in the second special symbol lottery, both "big win" and "minor win" options are available in the lottery results. The game transitions to the special game state if a "big win" is achieved, and also if a "minor win" is achieved and the passage of a specific area by the game ball is detected during the minor win game state.

[0108] In this embodiment, obtaining the opportunity to draw the second special symbol results in a higher probability of transitioning to a special game state than obtaining the opportunity to draw the first special symbol. As mentioned above, in order to obtain the opportunity to draw the second special symbol, it is necessary to win a "regular win" in the regular symbol draw and to insert the game ball into the second start opening 49 when the regular mechanism 54 (regular electric mechanism) is in the open state. Furthermore, the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 (ease of inserting the ball) varies depending on the game state.

[0109] As shown in Figure 8, the game state transition control means 250 performs a game state transition control process that transitions the game state between each game state based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions (transition conditions).

[0110] (Normal state) The normal state (normal game state) is the initial state among the various game states. As mentioned above, in the normal state, the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is lower than in the time-saving state. Furthermore, even if a "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal mechanism 54 operates in such a way that the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 hardly increases. For this reason, in the normal state, it is difficult (impossible) to get the game ball into the second start opening 49. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) to obtain an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery. In the normal state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot left to get the game ball into the first start opening 46 in order to obtain an opportunity for the first special symbol lottery, rather than shooting right. In other words, the normal state is a game state in which left-handed shooting is recommended.

[0111] As shown in Figure 8, the game transitions to a special game state based on winning a "jackpot" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state. As shown in Figure 7(a), if "jackpot 1" is won in the special symbol lottery, 10,000 rounds of time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to a time-saving spin state based on the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 2" is won in the special symbol lottery, 130 rounds of time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to a time-saving spin state based on the end of the special game state.

[0112] (Time-saving state) As mentioned above, in the time-saving state (specific game state), the probability of winning a "regular win" in the regular symbol lottery is higher than in the normal state. Also, when a "regular win" is won in the regular symbol lottery, the regular mechanism 54 operates in a way that increases the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49. For this reason, in the time-saving state, it is easier to get the game ball into the second start opening 49 compared to the normal state. In other words, it is easier to obtain an opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery. In the time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot to the right to get the game ball through the passage gate 48 in order to obtain an opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery, rather than shooting to the left. In other words, the time-saving state is a game state in which shooting to the right is recommended.

[0113] As shown in Figure 8, if a "Big Win" or "Small Win" is achieved in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery) during the time-saving state, the game transitions to a special game state (including via the small win game state). As shown in Figure 7(b), if "Big Win 3" is achieved in the special symbol lottery, 10,000 time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "Big Win 4" is achieved in the special symbol lottery, 130 time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Furthermore, if "Small Win 1" is achieved in the special symbol lottery, and the passage of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the small win game state, 10,000 time-saving spins are set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Furthermore, if the player wins "Minor Win 2" in the special symbol lottery and the game ball is detected passing through a specific area during the minor win game state, 130 rounds of time-saving features will be set at the end of the special game state, and the game will transition to the time-saving feature state based on the end of the special game state.

[0114] The game state transition control means 250 determines that the termination condition (a predetermined condition) for the time-saving state has been met when the number of times the second special symbol has been displayed in the time-saving state reaches 130 (or 10,000) times, terminates the time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state. In this embodiment, when the special game state ends, the time-saving counter 2915 in the main memory 290 is stored with a value corresponding to the type of winning symbol, and each time the second special symbol is displayed in the time-saving state, "1" is deducted from the value stored in the time-saving counter 2915. Then, when the value of the time-saving counter 2915 reaches "0", the time-saving termination condition is met, the time-saving state ends, and the normal state begins. In this embodiment, the time-saving termination condition is met when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is subtracted and reaches a predetermined value "0". However, the system is not limited to this, and the time-saving termination condition may be met when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is added and reaches a predetermined value "130" (or "10000").

[0115] In the normal state, left-handed play is more advantageous than right-handed play, while in the time-saving state, right-handed play is more advantageous than left-handed play. In the time-saving state, it is easier to get the game balls into the second starting port 49 than in the normal state, and the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of game balls into the second starting port 49 has a higher probability of determining a transition to the special game state than the first special symbol lottery. In other words, the probability of determining a transition to the special game state is higher in the time-saving state than in the normal state.

[0116] Let's return to Figure 5 for explanation. The payout control means 270 controls the payout (electronically) of a number of game balls corresponding to a predetermined number of prize balls for each detection signal, based on the detection signals received from the first start switch 100, the second start switch 103, the general prize slot switch 101, and the count switch 104.

[0117] The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated according to the various calculation results of the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 and the frame control board 201. In this embodiment, only unidirectional communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible between the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202, and the communication connection is configured such that the sub-control board 202 cannot transmit information to the main control board 200.

[0118] Next, the sub-control board 202 will be described. The sub-control board 202 is composed of a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 302.

[0119] The performance control means 300 controls the performance device based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150, and performance data stored in the performance data storage means 303 (ROM) of the sub-memory 302. By controlling the performance device, it makes the performance device execute performances to enhance or assist the game, such as turning on or flashing the front frame lamp 12 and lighting device 38, displaying performance images on the liquid crystal display 32, controlling the sound device to output performance sounds from the speaker 14, and driving the performance item drive device to operate the performance items (mechanical items).

[0120] The performance data storage means 303 stores a large number of performance image data for displaying images on the liquid crystal display 32. Based on this performance image data, the performance control means 300 draws an image to the frame buffer of the sub-memory 302 every frame (1 / 30 second), and displays the drawn image on the liquid crystal display 32, thereby playing and displaying a video on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0121] The performance control means 300 determines the performance content to be executed based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 200 and input signals from the performance button switch 150. Based on the determined performance content, the performance control means 300 performs control related to the display of, for example, the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32.

[0122] When a first special random value is read and a special symbol lottery is performed, the first special symbol is displayed in a variable state by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 (Figure 4) until a predetermined variation time has elapsed. After that, the first special symbol is displayed in a stopped state by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner. Similarly, when a second special random value is read and a special symbol lottery is performed, the second special symbol is displayed in a variable state by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 (Figure 4) until a predetermined variation time has elapsed. After that, the second special symbol is displayed in a stopped state by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 80 in a predetermined manner.

[0123] The display of the first and second special symbols on a 7-segment display (variation display, stop display) lacks visual appeal. Therefore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, a performance (variation display performance, stop display performance) is performed to display performance symbols on the liquid crystal display 32. There are three types of performance symbols, for example, left performance symbols, middle performance symbols, and right performance symbols. The left performance symbols are displayed on the left side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, the middle performance symbols are displayed on the middle (center) side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, and the right performance symbols are displayed on the right side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32. The left performance symbols consist of nine types of performance symbols (sequence of performance symbols) representing the numbers "1" to "9". Each of the nine types of performance symbols may include characters, etc., along with the numbers. The middle and right performance symbols also consist of nine types of performance symbols (sequence of performance symbols) similar to the left performance symbols.

[0124] Here, we will explain examples of the variation display and stop display effects when the special symbol lottery (jackpot determination process) is unsuccessful. The variation display effect is executed from the start of the variation display of the special symbol until the special symbol is stopped. As soon as the variation of the special symbol (referred to as the first special symbol) begins, the variation display effect starts in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, and each sequence of symbols scrolls and is displayed. The left sequence of symbols scrolls and is displayed on the left side of the display area 32a, flowing from top to bottom. Similarly, the middle sequence of symbols and the right sequence of symbols scroll up and down (vertically) and are displayed.

[0125] After a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the start of the first special symbol's movement (for example, about half the movement time), the movement (scrolling) of the left display symbol column will stop first. Following the left display symbol column, the movement (scrolling) of the right display symbol column will also stop.

[0126] The stop display effect is a feature that notifies the player that a special symbol has stopped and also notifies the player of the result of the special symbol lottery as a combination of featured symbols. In this example, along with the stop display of the first special symbol, the movement (scrolling) of the middle featured symbol column stops. The middle featured symbol stops in a position that is in a horizontal line with the left featured symbol and the right featured symbol. If the result of the special symbol lottery is a loss, and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a losing manner, the liquid crystal display 32 performs a stop display effect that stops and displays the featured symbols in a losing manner. For example, if the combination of featured symbols is "8"-"1"-"3", a losing combination, the liquid crystal display 32 notifies the player that the result of the special symbol lottery is a loss. By displaying the result of the special symbol lottery on the liquid crystal display 32 through such an effect, the player can more easily recognize the result of the special symbol lottery. Furthermore, such an effect can create a sense of anticipation for winning in the player.

[0127] When a win is achieved, a reach animation may be performed during the reel spinning animation. After the reach animation, a stop animation is performed in which the symbols are stopped in the winning position. A reach state occurs when the reel spinning stops in the left and right reel spinning rows, the middle reel spinning row is still spinning, the stopped left and right reel spinning rows are of the same type, and the combination of reel spinning rows is, for example, "5" - "Spinning" - "5". When a reach state occurs, the reach animation is performed (started).

[0128] In the stop display animation that follows the reach animation, if the last middle symbol (representing the number "5") stops and the symbols stop in a winning pattern (in this example, "5"-"5"-"5"), it is announced that a jackpot has been confirmed. However, if the last middle symbol (representing a number other than "5") stops in the stop display animation and the symbols stop in a losing pattern, it is announced that a loss has been confirmed.

[0129] As described above, the special symbol lottery means 230 of the main control board 200 executes a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process) based on the input of a detection signal from the first start switch 100 or the second start switch 103, and determines the variation time of the first special symbol (symbol) or the second special symbol (symbol). Specifically, it selects one of the main variation pattern lottery tables prepared in multiple types and executes a lottery to determine the main variation pattern. The main control board 200 transmits main variation pattern information indicating the determined main variation pattern to the sub-control board 202.

[0130] In this embodiment, the variation time of the second special symbol related to the winning variation can be set as the first winning variation time, the second winning variation time, or the third winning variation time. The second winning variation time is longer than the first winning variation time, and the third winning variation time is longer than the second winning variation time. A winning variation refers to the variation of the special symbol related to the result of the special symbol lottery, where a win is obtained (a win is achieved).

[0131] Furthermore, as described above, in this embodiment, when the special game state ends, the number of time-saving rounds corresponding to the type of winning symbol is set in the memory value of the time-saving counter 2915 in the main memory 290, and "1" is deducted from the memory value of the time-saving counter 2915 each time the second special symbol is displayed in a variable state during the time-saving state. Based on the fact that the memory value of the time-saving counter 2915 has been deducted (based on the fact that the variable display of the second special symbol has started), the main control board 200 transmits information indicating the memory value of the time-saving counter 2915 (remaining time-saving rounds information) to the sub-control board 202.

[0132] Here, in a time-saving state (130 time-saving attempts), the state where the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is "130" is defined as having 130 remaining time-saving attempts. Furthermore, the period when the remaining time-saving attempts are 130 to 81 is defined as the first period (early stage) of the time-saving state, the period when the remaining time-saving attempts are 80 to 21 is defined as the second period (middle stage) of the time-saving state, and the period when the remaining time-saving attempts are 20 to 1 is defined as the third period (late stage) of the time-saving state. Hereafter, "time-saving state" will be explained as referring to a time-saving state with 130 time-saving attempts, but a time-saving state with 10,000 time-saving attempts may be similarly structured.

[0133] The first period is the period in which the number of times the second special symbol is displayed in the time-saving state is between 1 and 50, the second period is the period in which the number of times the second special symbol is displayed in the time-saving state is between 51 and 110, and the third period is the period in which the number of times the second special symbol is displayed in the time-saving state is between 111 and 130. Note that the divisions between the first to third periods are not limited to these, and may also be periods obtained by dividing the number of time-saving rounds (130) into approximately three equal parts. The performance control means 300 can determine which period in the time-saving state is currently in based on the received information on the remaining number of time-saving rounds.

[0134] (Sub-variation pattern determination process) The sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) performs sub-variation pattern determination processing based on information received from the main control board 200. Based on the main variation pattern information and remaining time reduction information, the performance control means 300 selects one of several prepared sub-variation pattern lottery tables and performs a lottery to determine the sub-variation pattern. The sub-variation pattern determination processing in the time reduction state will be described below. In addition, the main variation pattern information includes information related to winning variations and information related to losing variations, and the sub-variation pattern determination processing when main variation pattern information related to winning variations is received will be described below.

[0135] (Stage 1) The performance control means 300 selects one sub-variation pattern lottery table from among several types of sub-variation pattern lottery tables based on the winning variation time of the second special symbol and the period in the time-saving state, and performs the first lottery. Figure 9 shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected in the first lottery.

[0136] If it is the first period and the first variation time, Table L1 is selected. When Table L1 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 70% probability that performance pattern A1 will be set and a 30% probability that performance pattern B1 will be set.

[0137] If it is the first period and the second variation time, table L2 is selected. When table L2 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 70% probability that performance pattern C1 will be set and a 30% probability that performance pattern D1 will be set.

[0138] If it is the first period and the third variation time, table L3 is selected. When table L3 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 70% probability that performance pattern E1 will be set and a 30% probability that performance pattern F1 will be set.

[0139] If it is the second period and the first variation time, table M1 is selected. When table M1 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 70% probability that performance pattern A2 will be set and a 30% probability that performance pattern B2 will be set.

[0140] If it is the second period and the second variation time, table M2 is selected. If table M2 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 70% chance that performance pattern C2 will be set and a 30% chance that performance pattern D2 will be set.

[0141] If it is the second period and the third variation time, table M3 is selected. If table M3 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 70% chance that performance pattern E2 will be set and a 30% chance that performance pattern F2 will be set.

[0142] If it is the third period and the first variation time, table N1 is selected. When table N1 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 70% probability that performance pattern A3 will be set and a 30% probability that performance pattern B3 will be set.

[0143] If it is the third period and the second variation time, table N2 is selected. If table N2 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 70% probability that performance pattern C3 will be set and a 30% probability that performance pattern D3 will be set.

[0144] If it is the third period and the third variation time, table N3 is selected. If table N3 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 70% probability that performance pattern E3 will be set and a 30% probability that performance pattern F3 will be set.

[0145] In Figure 9, each table is shown to contain two performance patterns, and one of these two patterns is determined. However, the system is not limited to this configuration; it may be configured so that one of two or more performance patterns is determined.

[0146] (Stage 2) The performance control means 300 performs a second lottery after performing a first lottery to determine whether or not to make the sub-variation pattern a sub-variation pattern that involves the execution of a specific performance (described later). Figure 10 shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected in the second lottery. Based on the duration of the time-saving state, the performance control means 300 selects one sub-variation pattern lottery table from among several types of sub-variation pattern lottery tables and performs the second lottery.

[0147] (Specific performance) The specific effect is an effect that notifies the player of a confirmed win, in other words, an instant notification effect. The specific effect may be, for example, a special flash effect in which the lighting device 38 lights up in a predetermined manner, or a special button effect in which the effect button 26 lights up in a predetermined manner and a predetermined sound (kyuin) is emitted. When the specific effect is executed, the player can understand that the spin in question is a winning spin (that they have won) and can revel in the joy.

[0148] In this embodiment, the specific effect is an effect that notifies the confirmation of a win, but it is not limited to this, and may be an effect that suggests a high probability of winning (for example, a cut-in effect or a shake vision effect). In other words, the specific effect may be an effect that suggests a high probability of winning (a high-reliability effect).

[0149] If it is the first period, Table X is selected. If Table X is selected and the second draw is performed, there is a 95% chance that "No specific performance will be performed" will be set, and a 5% chance that "Specific performance will be performed" will be set.

[0150] If it is the second period, table Y is selected. When table Y is selected and the second draw is performed, there is a 90% chance that "No specific performance will be performed" will be set, and a 10% chance that "Specific performance will be performed" will be set.

[0151] If it is the third period, Table Z is selected. If Table Z is selected and the second draw is performed, there is a 50% chance that "No specific performance will be performed" will be set, and a 50% chance that "Specific performance will be performed" will be set.

[0152] In this embodiment, the sub-variation patterns that can be set when a winning variation occurs in the time-saving state include: Pattern A1 without execution of a specific effect, Pattern A1 with execution of a specific effect, Pattern B1 without execution of a specific effect, Pattern B1 with execution of a specific effect, Pattern C1 without execution of a specific effect, Pattern C1 with execution of a specific effect, Pattern D1 without execution of a specific effect, Pattern D1 with execution of a specific effect, Pattern E1 without execution of a specific effect, Pattern E1 with execution of a specific effect, Pattern F1 without execution of a specific effect, Pattern F1 with execution of a specific effect, Pattern A2 without execution of a specific effect, Pattern A2 with execution of a specific effect, Pattern B2 without execution of a specific effect, Pattern B2 with execution of a specific effect, and Pattern C2 without execution of a specific effect. This includes pattern C2 with the execution of a specific effect, pattern D2 without the execution of a specific effect, pattern D2 with the execution of a specific effect, pattern E2 without the execution of a specific effect, pattern E2 with the execution of a specific effect, pattern F2 without the execution of a specific effect, pattern F2 with the execution of a specific effect, pattern A3 without the execution of a specific effect, pattern A3 with the execution of a specific effect, pattern B3 without the execution of a specific effect, pattern B3 with the execution of a specific effect, pattern C3 without the execution of a specific effect, pattern C3 with the execution of a specific effect, pattern D3 without the execution of a specific effect, pattern D3 with the execution of a specific effect, pattern E3 without the execution of a specific effect, pattern E3 with the execution of a specific effect, pattern F3 without the execution of a specific effect, and pattern F3 with the execution of a specific effect.

[0153] In this embodiment, the type of performance to be performed differs between the first, second, and third periods. Furthermore, the type of performance to be performed also differs depending on the length of the variation time. In addition, each pattern may or may not involve the performance of a specific performance.

[0154] (Single draw) In this embodiment, a two-stage lottery is performed, consisting of a first lottery and a second lottery. However, it may also be configured so that a single-stage lottery (bulk lottery) is performed to determine the sub-variation pattern. Figure 11 shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected in the bulk lottery. In Figure 11, "-" means that no specific performance is performed, and "+" means that a specific performance is performed.

[0155] If it is the first period and the first variation time, Table L1 is selected. When Table L1 is selected and a batch draw is performed, the probability of "Pattern A1-" being set is 66.5%, the probability of "Pattern A1+" being set is 3.5%, the probability of "Pattern B1-" being set is 28.5%, and the probability of "Pattern B1+" being set is 1.5%.

[0156] If it is the first period and the second variation time, Table L2 is selected. When Table L2 is selected and a batch draw is performed, the probability of "Pattern C1-" being set is 66.5%, the probability of "Pattern C1+" being set is 3.5%, the probability of "Pattern D1-" being set is 28.5%, and the probability of "Pattern D1+" being set is 1.5%.

[0157] If it is the first period and the third variation time, Table L3 is selected. When Table L3 is selected and a batch draw is performed, the probability of "Pattern E1-" being set is 66.5%, the probability of "Pattern E1+" being set is 3.5%, the probability of "Pattern F1-" being set is 28.5%, and the probability of "Pattern F1+" being set is 1.5%.

[0158] If it is the second period and the first variation time, Table M1 is selected. When Table M1 is selected and a batch draw is performed, the probability of "Pattern A2-" being set is 63%, the probability of "Pattern A2+" being set is 7%, the probability of "Pattern B2-" being set is 27%, and the probability of "Pattern B2+" being set is 3%.

[0159] If it is the second period and the second variation time, Table M2 is selected. When Table M2 is selected and a batch draw is performed, there is a 63% chance that "Pattern C2-" will be set, a 7% chance that "Pattern C2+" will be set, a 27% chance that "Pattern D2-" will be set, and a 3% chance that "Pattern D2+" will be set.

[0160] If it is the second period and the third variation time, table M3 is selected. When table M3 is selected and a batch draw is performed, the probability of setting "Pattern E2-" is 63%, the probability of setting "Pattern E2+" is 7%, the probability of setting "Pattern F2-" is 27%, and the probability of setting "Pattern F2+" is 3%.

[0161] If it is the third period and the first variation time, Table N1 is selected. When Table N1 is selected and a batch draw is performed, there is a 35% probability that "Pattern A3-" will be set, a 35% probability that "Pattern A3+" will be set, a 15% probability that "Pattern B3-" will be set, and a 15% probability that "Pattern B3+" will be set.

[0162] If it is the third period and the second variation time, Table N2 is selected. When Table N2 is selected and a batch draw is performed, there is a 35% probability that "Pattern C3-" will be set, a 35% probability that "Pattern C3+" will be set, a 15% probability that "Pattern D3-" will be set, and a 15% probability that "Pattern D3+" will be set.

[0163] If it is the third period and the third variation time, Table N3 is selected. When Table N3 is selected and a batch draw is performed, there is a 35% probability that "Pattern E3-" will be set, a 35% probability that "Pattern E3+" will be set, a 15% probability that "Pattern F3-" will be set, and a 15% probability that "Pattern F3+" will be set.

[0164] Furthermore, multiple types of specific effects may be provided, and when the execution of a specific effect is decided, it may be configured so that which of the specific effects (for example, a special flash effect or a special button effect) is executed is determined by a lottery (a lottery related to the sub-variation pattern determination process). Although not shown in the diagram, the second lottery (Figure 10) described above may be configured so that one of the following is determined: "no specific effect execution", "specific effect execution (special flash effect)", or "specific effect execution (special button effect)".

[0165] In this embodiment (including the case of a single draw), the probability of a specific effect appearing (occurring) during a winning spin increases as the number of remaining spins (number of spins displayed for the second special symbol) decreases during the time-saving state.

[0166] In this embodiment, the time-saving state is divided into a first period, a second period, and a third period, but the number of divisions is not limited to "3". It may be divided into two sections, the first half and the second half, or into four or more sections. In other words, it is sufficient to divide it into at least two (two sections). For example, the remaining number of time-saving rounds "65" may be defined as a specific number, the section in which the remaining number of time-saving rounds is greater than "65" may be defined as the first section, and the section in which the remaining number of time-saving rounds is "65" or less may be defined as the second section, and the probability of a specific effect appearing in the winning variation may be higher in the second section than in the first section.

[0167] By making the probability of a specific animation occurring in the second half of the time-saving state (second section) higher than the probability of a specific animation occurring in the first half of the time-saving state (first section), it is possible to give players a different gaming experience in the first and second halves, thereby improving the enjoyment of the game compared to a case where the probability of a specific animation occurring in the time-saving state is always constant. In the time-saving state, the fewer time-saving spins remaining, the stronger the player's desire to win becomes. Therefore, if a specific animation is performed in the final stages (second half) of the time-saving state, the player's joy will be even greater. The gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to increase the frequency of giving players great joy in the final stages of the time-saving state, thereby improving the enjoyment of the game.

[0168] By the way, in the main variation pattern determination process (lottery) during the time-saving state, the table used in the lottery can be changed according to the remaining number of time-saving rounds, and the variation time of the second special symbol can be changed between, for example, the first half and the second half of the time-saving state, and the type of performance to be executed can be changed in accordance with the change in variation time. For example, the lottery ratio can be made different for the first half and the second half, and the table selected in the first half will have a higher probability of winning a shorter variation time (high-speed variation time) as the variation time of the second special symbol compared to the table selected in the second half (higher probability includes a 100% winning probability). In other words, the probability of selecting a relatively short variation time is higher in the first half, and the probability of selecting a basic variation time (normal variation time) is higher in the second half. Then, the performance can be configured to be executed according to the respective section in the high-speed variation section of the first half (for example, 30 times) and the normal variation section of the second half (for example, 100 times). By switching the type of performance to be executed midway through the time-saving state, the enjoyment of the game can be enhanced.

[0169] However, the main variation pattern determination process is executed based on whether the variation of the special symbols relates to a win or a loss, the current game state, the number of reserved symbols, etc. If the system is configured to also perform a lottery referencing the remaining number of time-saving rounds, the process becomes more complex (the development scale increases), and the effort and cost required for development increase.

[0170] In this embodiment, in the time-saving state, the winning probability (table) of the lottery related to the main variation pattern (variation seconds) is not changed according to the remaining number of time-saving times. Therefore, the complexity of the process can be suppressed, and the labor and cost required for development can be reduced. In this embodiment, as described above, the winning probability (table: information used for the production lottery) of the lottery related to the sub-variation pattern is changed according to the remaining number of time-saving times, and the appearance rate of the specific production is changed.

[0171] In this embodiment, the table selected in the latter half (third period) has a higher probability of winning "with specific production execution" than the table selected in the first half (first period or second period). In other words, the smaller the remaining number of time-saving times, the higher the probability that a specific production appears in the winning variation (the sub-variation pattern in which the specific production appears is determined).

[0172] In the time-saving state, even when the winning type is the same winning symbol, and the winning variation time of the second special symbol is the same winning variation time, and the composition of the production related to the variation (for example, the presence or absence of the reach production) is the same, different sub-variation patterns are determined according to in which period of the time-saving state the result was obtained (for example, whether it is the first period, the second period, or the third period). Thereby, the tendency of the appearing production can be made different.

[0173] In the time-saving state, The productions that can occur in the first period (beginning) (for example, the above-mentioned specific production) are configured to be able to occur also in the second period (middle) and the third period (end). Also, The productions that can occur in the second period (middle) (for example, the above-mentioned specific production) are configured to be able to occur also in the first period (beginning) and the third period (end). Also, The productions that can occur in the third period (end) (for example, the above-mentioned specific production) are configured to be able to occur also in the first period (beginning) and the second period (middle).

[0174] In the time-saving state, If a specific effect is configured not to occur in the first period (early stage), it may also be configured not to occur in the second period (middle stage) and the third period (end stage). If a specific effect is to be configured not to occur in the second period (middle), it may also be configured not to occur in the first period (beginning) and the third period (end). If a specific effect is configured not to occur in the third period (end), it may also be configured not to occur in the first period (beginning) and the second period (middle).

[0175] In a time-saving situation, There may be predetermined effects that can only occur during the first period (early stage). Furthermore, there may be predetermined effects that can only occur during the second period (middle stage). Furthermore, there may be predetermined effects that can only occur during the third period (final stage).

[0176] In a time-saving situation, The predetermined effects may be configured so that they do not occur only during the first period (beginning). Furthermore, the predetermined effects may be configured so that they do not occur only during the second period (middle). Furthermore, the predetermined effects may be configured so that they do not occur only during the third period (end).

[0177] (modified version) In the following, under the shortened time state (130 shortened time sessions), the period in which the remaining shortened time sessions are greater than "65" will be designated as the first period, and the period in which the remaining shortened time sessions are "65" or less will be designated as the second period. Note that the boundary between the first and second periods is not limited to "65" and may be any other value.

[0178] The sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) performs sub-variation pattern determination processing based on information received from the main control board 200. The information received by the sub-control board 202 from the main control board 200 includes main variation pattern information and remaining time reduction count information. The main variation pattern information includes information indicating a winning variation and information indicating a losing variation. In this modified example, the specific performance is not a performance that announces a confirmed win, but rather a performance that suggests a high probability of a win (a specific result) (for example, a cut-in performance or a shake vision performance), and can be performed even in the case of a losing variation. In this modified example, the specific performance may also be a reach performance.

[0179] (Stage 1) The performance control means 300 selects one sub-variation pattern lottery table from among several types of sub-variation pattern lottery tables based on the variation time of the second special symbol and the period in the time-saving state, and performs the first lottery. Figure 12 shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected in the first lottery.

[0180] If it is the first half (first section) and the time is a losing variation, table α1 is selected. If table α1 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 60% chance that performance pattern P1 will be set and a 40% chance that performance pattern Q1 will be set.

[0181] If it is the first half (first section) and the first variation time, table α2 is selected. When table α2 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 60% chance that performance pattern R1 will be set and a 40% chance that performance pattern S1 will be set.

[0182] If it is the first half (first section) and the second variation time, table α3 is selected. When table α3 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 60% chance that performance pattern T1 will be set and a 40% chance that performance pattern U1 will be set.

[0183] If it is the second half (second section) and the time is a losing variation, table β1 is selected. If table β1 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 60% chance that performance pattern P2 will be set and a 30% chance that performance pattern Q2 will be set.

[0184] If it is the second half (second section) and the first variation time, table β2 is selected. When table β2 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 60% chance that performance pattern R2 will be set and a 40% chance that performance pattern S2 will be set.

[0185] If it is the second half (second section) and the second variation time, table β3 is selected. If table β3 is selected and the first draw is performed, there is a 60% chance that performance pattern T2 will be set and a 40% chance that performance pattern U2 will be set.

[0186] (Stage 2) The performance control means 300 performs a second lottery after performing a first lottery to determine whether or not to make the sub-variation pattern a sub-variation pattern that involves the execution of a specific performance. Figure 13 shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected in the second lottery. Based on the variation time of the second special symbol and the period in the time-saving state, the performance control means 300 selects one sub-variation pattern lottery table from among several types of sub-variation pattern lottery tables and performs the second lottery.

[0187] If it is the first half (first section) and the time is a losing variation, Table γ1 is selected. If Table γ1 is selected and the second lottery is performed, there is a 90% chance that "No specific performance" will be set and a 10% chance that "Specific performance will be performed" will be set.

[0188] If it is the first half (first section) and within the winning variation time, table γ2 is selected. If table γ2 is selected and the second lottery is executed, there is a 50% chance that "No specific performance" will be set and a 50% chance that "Specific performance will be performed" will be set.

[0189] If it is the second half (second section) and the time is a losing variation, Table γ1 is selected. If Table γ1 is selected and the second lottery is executed, there is a 90% chance that "No specific performance will be performed" will be set, and a 10% chance that "Specific performance will be performed" will be set.

[0190] If it is the second half (second section) and within the winning variation time, table γ3 is selected. When table γ3 is selected and the second lottery is executed, there is a 10% chance that "no specific performance" will be set and a 90% chance that "specific performance will be performed".

[0191] In the later stages (when there are fewer time-saving spins remaining), the probability of a specific animation appearing during a winning spin (the sub-spin pattern in which the specific animation appears is determined) is higher.

[0192] In the first half, when a specific animation is performed (appears), the probability that the spin is a losing spin is relatively higher (compared to the second half) (the probability that the spin is a winning spin is relatively lower). In the second half, when a specific animation is performed (appears), the probability that the resulting spin is a losing spin is relatively lower (compared to the first half) (the probability that the resulting spin is a winning spin is relatively higher). The probability of winning (the probability that the special symbol draw will result in a specific outcome) when a particular animation is performed is higher in the second half than in the first half. In other words, the probability of a false alarm (a loss) when a particular animation occurs is lower in the second half than in the first half.

[0193] Furthermore, the probability (expected value) of winning a prize in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery) does not change between the first and second sections.

[0194] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means (performance control means 300) that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, A lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that conducts a lottery based on the entry of a game medium into a predetermined area (second starting opening 49) provided in the game area, A symbol display means (second special symbol display unit 81) capable of displaying a changing pattern, The system includes a state control means (game state transition control means 250) that controls the transition between multiple game states, including a normal game state (normal state) and a specific game state (time-saving state), The state control means can terminate the specific game state based on the fact that the number of times the symbols change in the specific game state reaches a predetermined number of times. The aforementioned specific game state includes at least a first section in which the number of remaining possible symbol variations is greater than a specified number, and a second section in which the number of remaining possible symbol variations is less than or equal to the specified number. The results of the aforementioned lottery include a specific result (a winner), The aforementioned performance control means is capable of executing a specific performance during the variation of the symbols that suggests a high probability of obtaining the specific result. In the second section, the probability of the lottery result being the specific outcome is higher than in the first section when the specific performance occurs.

[0195] In the second section, the probability of the lottery result being the specific outcome is higher when the specific performance occurs than in the first section. Therefore, it is possible to give players a different gameplay experience in the first and second sections, and the enjoyment of the game can be enhanced compared to when the "probability of the lottery result being the specific outcome when the specific performance occurs" is constant. In the second section, players will more strongly desire to obtain the specific outcome than in the first section, but in the second section, the "probability of the lottery result being the specific outcome is higher when the specific performance occurs," so when the specific performance occurs in the second section, the player's joy (expectation) will be even greater. In other words, it can excite the player.

[0196] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the probability of obtaining the specific result in the lottery does not change between the first section and the second section. The enjoyment of the game can be improved without changing the probability itself of obtaining the specific result in the first and second sections.

[0197] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be implemented in various modified forms without departing from its essence. Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is possible to freely combine the embodiments, modify any component of each embodiment, or omit any component in each embodiment. The present invention can also be applied to conventional pachinko machines, that is, pachinko machines in which the player can physically touch the game balls and the game balls are dispensed into a tray based on their entry into predetermined prize slots. [Explanation of symbols]

[0198] 4. Gaming Area 49 Second starting port (designated area) 81. Second special pattern display section (pattern display means) 200 Main control board (main control means) 230 Special Symbol Drawing Method (Drawing Method) 250 Game state transition control means 300 Performance control means

Claims

1. A gaming machine comprising a game area on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the game area in response to the player's operation, A main control means for controlling the progress of the game, The system includes a performance control means that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, The main control means is A lottery means that performs a process based on the fact that a game medium has entered a predetermined area provided in the game area, A pattern display means capable of displaying a pattern in a variable manner, The system includes a state control means that controls the transition between multiple types of game states, including a normal game state and a specific game state. The state control means can terminate the specific game state based on the number of times the symbols change in the specific game state reaches a predetermined number of times. The aforementioned specific game state includes at least a first section in which the number of remaining possible symbol variations is greater than a specified number, and a second section in which the number of remaining possible symbol variations is less than or equal to the specified number. The process performed by the lottery means includes a first process for determining whether or not a specific result has been obtained. The process performed by the lottery means includes a second process for determining the variation time of the symbols, and the lottery means performs the second process using the same table in the first and second sections. The main control means transmits the result of the processing to the performance control means. The aforementioned performance control means is capable of executing a specific performance that notifies that the specific result has been confirmed to have been obtained during the variation of the symbols. The performance control means, upon receiving the result of the first process indicating that the specific result has been obtained in the first process and a predetermined pattern variation time has been obtained in the second process, selects different tables depending on whether the current section is the first section or the second section, performs a lottery, and determines whether or not to execute the specific performance, wherein the probability of deciding to execute the specific performance is higher in the second section than in the first section.

2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the probability of obtaining the specific result in the first process does not change between the first section and the second section.

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