Gaming machine

Abstract

To facilitate maintenance of the inside of a large winning hole internal area IR.SOLUTION: A Pachinko machine 1 includes a maintenance hole mh in a front plate 82a for partitioning a front side of a large winning hole internal area IR. This configuration allows a tool to be inserted into the large winning hole internal area IR through the maintenance hole mh, thereby facilitating maintenance (inspection, cleaning, elimination of ball clogging, etc.,) of the inside of the large winning hole internal area IR. In particular, the Pachinko machine 1 includes the maintenance hole mh at such a position that does not overlap distribution means 53b when viewed from the front side, between the distribution means 53b and a discharge area switch 105b (discharge area). Accordingly, the game machine makes it possible to facilitate the inspection and to suppress frauds of inserting a foreign object (wire, etc.,) from the maintenance hole mh and interfering with the distribution means 53b.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 47

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine including a front plate that partitions the front side of an internal area through which a game ball entering from an entrance flows down.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a gaming machine including a front plate that partitions the front side of an internal area through which a game ball entering from an entrance flows down is known (see Patent Document 1). In this gaming machine, a transparent cover (front plate) is provided that partitions the front of a guiding passage (internal area) through which a game ball entering from the entrance can pass. This prevents the game ball guided by the guiding passage from colliding with the transparent plate of the opening / closing door and makes it possible to prevent damage to the transparent plate.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional gaming machine, since the guiding passage is sealed by the transparent cover, there is a risk that maintenance inside the guiding passage becomes difficult. An object of the present invention is to facilitate maintenance inside the internal area.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] To achieve the above objective, the first invention provides a game machine comprising: an entry port; an opening and closing means for opening and closing the entry port; an internal region through which game balls entering from the entry port flow down; a front plate that partitions the front side of the internal region; and a through hole provided in the front plate, wherein the internal region includes a specific region and a non-specific region, and has a distribution means capable of distributing game balls entering from the entry port to either the specific region or the non-specific region, and the through hole is provided at a position between the distribution means and the non-specific region, and does not overlap with the distribution means when viewed from the front side. Furthermore, no other through holes are provided in the front panel at the position between the distribution means and the specific region. It is characterized by the following: In the gaming machine according to the first invention, a through-hole is provided in the front panel that partitions the front side of the internal area. This makes it possible to insert a jig into the internal area through the through-hole, thereby facilitating maintenance of the internal area (inspection, cleaning, clearing ball jams, etc.). In particular, in the gaming machine according to the first invention, the through-hole is provided at a position between the sorting means and the non-specific area. This makes it possible to guide the game balls to the specific area using a jig inserted into the through-hole during inspection, thereby facilitating inspection. Furthermore, in the gaming machine according to the first invention, the through-hole is positioned so as not to overlap with the sorting mechanism when viewed from the front. This makes it possible to suppress fraudulent acts that interfere with the sorting mechanism by inserting foreign objects (such as wires) through the through-hole. Here, the ball entry point is the first large prize entry point 53, which will be described later. The internal area is the large prize entry point internal area IR, which will be described later. The front panel is the front panel 82a, which will be described later. The through hole is the maintenance hole mh, which will be described later. The specific area is the V-area switch 105a (V-area), which will be described later. The non-specific area is the discharge area switch 105b (discharge area), which will be described later. The distribution means is the distribution means 53b, which will be described later. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to facilitate maintenance within the internal region. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the overall structure of a pachinko machine. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the front of the game board, schematically illustrating the parts that are particularly necessary for explanation. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control system for a pachinko machine. [Figure 4] This is the address map of the memory area used by CPU210. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing the CPU initialization process. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the main loop processing. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows the evacuation procedure when the power is cut off. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing timer interrupt handling. [Figure 9] The settings management process is visualized. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart showing the switch management process. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart showing the process for detecting the starting ball. [Figure 12] Figure 1 is a flowchart showing the starting ball detection process. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart showing the starting ball detection process, as shown in Figure 2. [Figure 14] This is a flowchart showing the process for obtaining special symbol random numbers. [Figure 15] This shows the special game management process. [Figure 16] This is a flowchart showing the special feature change waiting process. [Figure 17] This is a flowchart showing the processing during special feature changes. [Figure 18] This is a flowchart showing the processing while the special feature is stopped. [Figure 19] This is a flowchart showing the pre-processing steps before opening the first major prize gate. [Figure 20] It is a flowchart showing the first major winning opening control process. [Figure 21] It is a flowchart showing the first major winning closing valid process. [Figure 22] It is a flowchart showing the first major winning opening end wait process. [Figure 23] It is a flowchart showing the process before opening the second major winning opening. [Figure 24] It is a flowchart showing the second major winning opening control process. [Figure 25] It is a flowchart showing the second major winning closing valid process. <​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​This is a flowchart showing the sub-timer interrupt processing. [Figure 40] This is a flowchart showing the command parsing process. [Figure 41] This is a flowchart showing the process for receiving pending commands. [Figure 42] This is a flowchart showing the process of receiving pre-read commands. [Figure 43] This is a flowchart showing the process of receiving variable commands. [Figure 44] This is a flowchart showing the process of receiving a stop command. [Figure 45] This is a perspective view of the lower attacker unit 80. [Figure 46] This is an exploded perspective view of the lower attacker unit 80. [Figure 47] This diagram shows the passage formed in the lower attacker unit 80. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, the gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine 1.

[0009] (Overall configuration of Pachinko machine 1) First, let me explain the overall configuration of Pachinko Machine 1. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of a pachinko machine. The pachinko machine 1 is composed of an outer frame unit 2, an inner frame unit 3, a front frame unit 4, and a game board unit 10.

[0010] The outer frame unit 2, inner frame unit 3, and front frame unit 4 are fixed to each other via a hinge mechanism. This allows the inner frame unit 3 to open and close relative to the outer frame unit 2. The front frame unit 4 can also open and close relative to both the inner frame unit 3 and the outer frame unit 2. The outer frame unit 2 is composed of a rectangular frame (outer frame). The outer frame of the outer frame unit 2 is fixed to the island equipment of the amusement arcade.

[0011] The inner frame unit 3 is composed of a rectangular frame (inner frame). The inner frame unit 3 is positioned inside the outer frame unit 2. The front frame unit 4 is formed in the shape of a rectangular door. The door unit 4 has a transparent plate 4a located approximately in the center, a decorative part 4b located around the transparent plate 4a, a receiving tray unit 5 located below the transparent plate 4a, and a launching handle 6 located to the side of the receiving tray unit 5. The transparent plate 4a is formed in a flat shape from a transparent material such as resin or glass. The decorative part 4b is formed from a transparent or translucent resin material and has a shape that bulges forward. At each upper corner of the decorative part 4b, there is a sound vent section 4c in which a sound generating device (speaker) 22 (see Figure 3) is disposed inside. Each sound vent section 4c is provided with multiple sound vents that allow the sound output by the sound generating device 22 to pass through. Furthermore, the decorative section 4b is equipped with multiple frame lamps 20 (see Figure 3). Each frame lamp 20 is composed of multiple light-emitting elements (LEDs) that are driven by dynamic lighting control.

[0012] The receiving unit 5 includes a receiving tray 5a for receiving game balls (loaned balls and prize balls), and an action button 5b and a rotary selector 5c located in front of the receiving tray 5a. The performance button 5b is formed in a roughly cylindrical shape and is positioned to protrude upward from the receiving unit 5. The performance button 5b can be pressed by the player (by pushing it downwards). Inside the receiving unit 5 is a first operation detection switch 24 (see Figure 3) that detects the pressing operation of the performance button 5b. The first operation detection switch 24 outputs a first operation signal to the performance control circuit 300 (see Figure 3) each time the performance button 5b is pressed. A button lamp 77 (see Figure 3) is also provided inside the performance button 5b. The button lamp 77 is composed of multiple light-emitting elements (LEDs).

[0013] The rotary selector 5c (a so-called "jog dial") is formed in a roughly cylindrical shape and is arranged to surround the effect button 5b. The rotary selector 5c can be rotated by the player (rotated around its cylindrical axis). Inside the tray unit 5 is a second operation detection switch 25 (see Figure 3) that detects the rotation of the rotary selector 5c. The second operation detection switch 25 outputs a second operation signal to the effect control circuit 300 each time the rotary selector 5c is rotated by a predetermined angle (for example, 60°).

[0014] Furthermore, a lending operation unit 7 is provided on the upper surface of the receiving tray unit 5. The lending operation unit 7 has a ball lending button 7a, a return button 7b, and a frequency display device 7c. Here, the pachinko machine 1 is communicatively connected to a CR unit 500 (see Figure 3) capable of reading and updating information recorded on a prepaid card. When a prepaid card (not shown) is inserted into the CR unit 500, the remaining balance of the value medium recorded on the inserted prepaid card is displayed on the balance display device 7c. Furthermore, when the ball dispensing button 7a is operated while the prepaid card is inserted into the CR unit 500, a predetermined number of game balls are dispensed into the tray 5a. At this time, the remaining balance of the redeemable media recorded on the prepaid card is updated according to the number of game balls dispensed, and the updated remaining balance of the redeemable media is displayed on the balance display device 7c. Furthermore, if the return button 7b is pressed while a prepaid card with remaining credit on the redeemable media is inserted into the CR unit 500, the prepaid card will be returned from the CR unit 500. In this context, prepaid cards include, for example, magnetic storage media and media with embedded storage ICs. The launch handle 6 can be rotated by the player. Inside the launch handle 6 is a launch volume (not shown) that detects the angle by which the launch handle 6 has been rotated. The launch volume outputs a detection signal corresponding to the detected angle to the payout control circuit 400 (see Figure 3).

[0015] (Configuration of game board unit 10) Next, the configuration of the game board unit 10 will be explained. Figure 2 shows the front view of the game board, and schematically illustrates the parts that are particularly necessary for explanation. The game board unit 10 is supported by the inner frame unit 3. Specifically, the game board unit 10 is mounted inside the inner frame of the inner frame unit 3. As a result, the game board unit 10 is positioned on the rear side of the front frame unit 4. The player can then see the game board 11 (game area 30), which will be described later, through the transparent plate 4a. In this embodiment, the game area 30, which will be described later, is formed between the back of the transparent plate 4a and the front of the game board 11. As shown in Figure 2, the game board unit 10 comprises a game board 11 and various display devices (image display device 31, board lamps 21, etc.) attached to the game board 11.

[0016] The game board 11 is formed from resin in a flat plate shape. The game board 11 has a game area 30 formed on its surface, through which game balls launched in response to the rotation of the launch handle 6 flow down. In this embodiment, the front surface (board surface) of the game board 11 is formed as a game area 30, consisting of a left game area RL formed to the left of the image display device 31 (display screen 31a) and a right game area RR formed to the right of the image display device 31. The player can then launch (inject) game balls into the desired game areas RL and RR by adjusting the amount of rotation of the launch handle 6. Specifically, the front of the game board 11 has a launching passage r1 through which the game balls launched in response to the rotation of the launching handle 6 pass, and a guidance passage r2 that guides the launched game balls to the right-side game area RR. Then, the game ball launched in response to the rotation of the launch handle 6 passes through the launch passage r1 and flows into the game area. If the momentum of the launched game ball is weak, the game ball that passes through the launch passage r1 flows into the left game area RL. On the other hand, if the momentum of the launched game ball is strong, the game ball that passes through the launch passage r1 passes through the guidance passage r2 and flows into the right game area RR.

[0017] In the left-hand game area RL, multiple paths are formed as routes (passages) through which the game balls flow. The player can then adjust the amount of rotation of the launch handle 6 to launch (direct the game balls into) the desired path. The left-side game area RL is provided with a first starting opening 51, an upper left other prize opening 55a, a left-center other prize opening 55b, and a lower left other prize opening 55c. The first starting port 51 is formed in a pocket shape. The first starting port 51 is open upwards, allowing game balls to be inserted at all times. The first starting port 51 allows game balls to be inserted as they flow down the left game area RL. A special symbol 1 start port switch 101 (see Figure 3) is located on the back side of the game board 11. The special symbol 1 start port switch 101 outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of a game ball entering the first start port 51 (a game ball entering the first start port 51). The main control circuit 200 executes the first special symbol lottery in response to the detection signal input from the special symbol 1 start port switch 101. Each of the other prize entry points 55a to 55c is formed in a pocket shape. Each of the other prize entry points 55a to 55c opens upwards, allowing game balls to be entered at all times. Each of the other prize entry points 55a to 55c allows game balls flowing down the left game area RL to be entered. A left prize slot switch 106 (see Figure 3) is located on the back side of the game board 11. The left prize slot switch 106 outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of a game ball entering the upper left prize slot 55a (entry of a game ball into the upper left prize slot 55a), a game ball entering the left middle prize slot 55b (entry of a game ball into the left middle prize slot 55b), and a game ball entering the lower left prize slot 55c (entry of a game ball into the lower left prize slot 55c). The main control circuit 200, in response to the detection signal input from the left prize slot switch 106, causes the game ball dispensing device 440 to perform a prize ball dispensing operation. In the left-hand game area RL, multiple pins (not shown) are arranged to guide the game balls to each of the winning slots 51, 55a to 55c.

[0018] The game board 11 is composed of an upper attacker unit 70 and a lower attacker unit 80. The upper attacker unit 70 and the lower attacker unit 80 are separate units. The lower attacker unit 80 is positioned below (downstream of) the upper attacker unit 70. In the game board 11, the upper attacker unit 70 and the lower attacker unit 80 form the right-side game area RR. In this case, the upper attacker unit 70 forms the upstream side of the right-side game area RR, and the lower attacker unit 80 forms the downstream side of the right-side game area RR. The upper attacker unit 70 is composed of a starting gate 41 and a second large prize opening 54. The lower attacker unit 80 is composed of a first large prize opening 53, a second starting opening 52 and an operating opening 56. In the right-side game area RR, multiple paths are formed as routes (passages) through which the game balls flow. By adjusting the amount of rotation of the launch handle 6, the player can launch (direct) the game balls into the intended path.

[0019] A starting gate 41 is located at the uppermost part of the right-side area RR. The starting gate 41 is designed to allow game balls to pass through at all times. The starting gate 41 allows game balls flowing down the right-side game area RR to pass through. A first gate switch 104a (see Figure 3) is installed at the starting gate 41. The first gate switch 104a outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of a game ball passing through the starting gate 41 (passage of the starting gate 41 by a game ball). The main control circuit 200 performs a normal symbol lottery in response to the input of the detection signal from the first gate switch 104a.

[0020] A second large prize opening 54 is located downstream of the starting gate 41 in the right-side area RR. The second large prize opening 54 allows game balls flowing down the right-side game area RR to enter. The second large prize opening 54 opens towards the front. The second large prize opening 54 is equipped with a second special electric mechanism (special electric mechanism) 54a that can be displaced between a closed state that makes it difficult (impossible) for game balls to enter the second large prize opening 54 and an open state that makes it easy (possible) for game balls to enter the second large prize opening 54. The second special electric mechanism 54a is opened and closed by the second large prize slot solenoid 66 (see Figure 3). Normally, the second special electric mechanism 54a is closed, making it impossible for game balls to enter the second large prize slot 54. However, when a jackpot is triggered, the second special electric mechanism 54a is opened, allowing game balls to enter. A second count switch 103b (see Figure 3) is installed inside the second large prize opening 54. The second count switch 103b outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of a game ball entering the second large prize opening 54 (the entry of a game ball into the second large prize opening 54). In response to the detection signal input from the second count switch 103b, the main control circuit 200 causes the game ball dispensing device 440 to perform a prize ball dispensing operation.

[0021] Downstream of the second large prize opening 54 in the right-side area RR, the first large prize opening 53 is located. The first large prize opening 53 allows game balls flowing down the right-side game area RR to enter. The first large prize opening 53 opens upwards. The first large prize opening 53 is equipped with a first special electric mechanism (special electric mechanism) 53a that can be displaced between a closed state that makes it difficult (impossible) for game balls to enter the first large prize opening 53 and an open state that makes it easy (possible) for game balls to enter the first large prize opening 53. The first special electric mechanism 53a is opened and closed by the first large prize slot solenoid 65 (see Figure 3). Normally, the first special electric mechanism 53a is closed, making it impossible for game balls to enter the first large prize slot 53. However, when a minor win occurs, the first special electric mechanism 53a is opened, allowing game balls to enter. A first count switch 103a (see Figure 3) is installed inside the first large prize opening 53. The first count switch 103a outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of a game ball entering the first large prize opening 53 (the entry of a game ball into the first large prize opening 53). In response to the detection signal input from the first count switch 103a, the main control circuit 200 causes the game ball dispensing device 440 to perform a prize ball dispensing operation. Furthermore, the first large prize opening 53 is provided with a V-region (not shown), a discharge region (not shown), and a distribution means 53b that distributes the game balls that enter the first large prize opening 53 to either the V-region or the discharge region. A V-region switch 105a (see Figure 3) is installed in the V-region. The V-region switch 105a outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of a game ball passing through the V-region (passage of a game ball through the V-region). The main control circuit 200 triggers a jackpot game state upon receiving the detection signal from the V-region switch 105a. A discharge area switch 105b (see Figure 3) is installed in the discharge area. The discharge area switch 105b outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of a game ball passing through the discharge area (passage of the game ball through the discharge area). The main control circuit 200 performs a determination of whether an unauthorized prize entry error has occurred based on the detection signal input from the first count switch 103a, the detection signal input from the V area switch 105a, and the detection signal input from the discharge area switch 105b. Specifically, the main control circuit 200 starts counting the total number of game balls detected by the first count switch 103a (hereinafter referred to as "total number of balls entered"), the total number of game balls detected by the V-area switch 105a (hereinafter referred to as "first number of balls dispensed"), and the total number of game balls detected by the dispensing area switch 105b (hereinafter referred to as "second number of balls dispensed") in response to the start of a minor prize game. Furthermore, in response to the end of the closing validity period set after the end of the minor prize game, it determines whether the sum of the first number of balls dispensed and the second number of balls dispensed matches the total number of balls entered. If it is determined that the sum of the first number of balls dispensed and the second number of balls dispensed matches the total number of balls entered, it does not determine that an illegal entry error has occurred. If it is determined that the sum of the first number of balls dispensed and the second number of balls dispensed does not match the total number of balls entered, it determines that an illegal entry error has occurred. Game balls that pass through area V, and game balls that pass through the discharge area, flow into the discharge path described later. The distribution means 53b can be switched between a V-passing state, in which game balls that enter the first large prize opening 53 can be distributed to the V region (the first branching passage Ra described later), and a non-V-passing state, in which game balls that enter the first large prize opening 53 can be distributed to the discharge region (the second branching passage Rb described later). That is, when the distribution means 53b is switched to the V-passing state, all game balls that enter the first large prize opening 53 are distributed to the V region (the first branching passage Ra). On the other hand, when the distribution means 53b is switched to the non-V-passing state, all game balls that enter the first large prize opening 53 are distributed to the discharge region (the second branching passage Rb) (it becomes impossible for game balls that enter the first large prize opening 53 to pass through the V region). The distribution means 53b is displaced by the V distribution solenoid 67 (see Figure 3). Game balls that enter the first large prize opening 53 are first detected by the first count switch 103a, and then sorted by the sorting means 53b to one of the two regions (pathways) between the V region (first branch passage Ra) and the discharge region (second branch passage Rb). After passing through the said region (pathway), the game balls are discharged to the back side (discharge path) of the game board 11.

[0022] A second starting opening 52 is provided downstream of the first large prize winning opening 53 in the right-side area RR. The second starting opening 52 allows game balls flowing down the right-side game area RR to enter. The second starting opening 52 opens toward the right. The second starting opening 52 is equipped with a standard electric mechanism (standard electric mechanism) 52a (a so-called "electric tulip") which can be displaced between a closed state that makes it difficult (impossible) for game balls to enter the second starting opening 52 and an open state that makes it easy (possible) for game balls to enter the second starting opening 52. The standard electric mechanism 52a is opened and closed by the standard electric mechanism solenoid 64 (see Figure 3). Normally, the standard electric mechanism 52a is closed at the second start port 52, making it impossible for game balls to enter. However, when the standard symbol lottery is won, the standard electric mechanism 52a is opened, allowing game balls to enter. A special symbol 2 start port switch 102 (see Figure 3) is installed inside the second start port 52. The special symbol 2 start port switch 102 outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of a game ball entering the second start port 52 (a game ball entering the second start port 52). The main control circuit 200 executes the second special symbol lottery in response to the detection signal input from the special symbol 2 start port switch 102.

[0023] Downstream of the second starting port 52 in the right-side area RR, an operating port 56 is provided. The operating port 56 allows game balls flowing down the right-side game area RR to enter. The operating port 56 is an upward-facing ball entry port, allowing game balls to be inserted at all times. A second gate switch 104b (see Figure 3) is located inside the operating port 56. The second gate switch 104b outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of a game ball entering the operating port 56 (entry of a game ball into the operating port 56). The main control circuit 200 performs a normal symbol lottery in response to the input of the detection signal from the second operating port switch 104b.

[0024] To the right of the operating port 56 in the right-side area RR, an out port 57 is provided. The out port 57 allows game balls flowing down the right-side game area RR to enter. Outlet 57 opens to the right, allowing game balls to be inserted at all times. Furthermore, at the downstream end of the game area 30, there is an outlet 58 for discharging game balls that did not enter (win) any of the winning pockets 51-56. Here, the inner frame unit 3 includes an outlet passage (not shown) through which the game balls discharged from the game area 30 pass. Specifically, the outlet passage is attached to the back side of the inner frame of the inner frame unit 3. In the pachinko machine 1, all game balls launched into the game area 30 (all game balls discharged from the game area 30) are configured to pass through the outlet passage. That is, game balls launched into the game area 30 are discharged from the game area 30 and flow into the outlet passage by entering any of the winning holes 51-56 or by passing through the out holes 57 and 58. Specifically, game balls that enter each prize slot 51-56 are detected by switches 101, 102, 103a, 103b, 104b, 105a, 105b, and 106 located within the prize slot, and then guided to the discharge path. Game balls discharged from the out slots 57 and 58 are also guided to the discharge path. An out switch 109 (see Figure 3) is installed in the inner frame unit 3. The out switch 109 outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of game balls passing through the discharge path (game balls discharged from the game area 30). As a result, all game balls discharged from the game area 30 are detected by the out switch 109. Furthermore, multiple pins (not shown) are arranged in the game area 30 to guide the game balls into each of the winning slots 51-56.

[0025] Multiple panel lamps 21 (see Figure 3) are arranged in the game area 30 of the game board 11. Each panel lamp 21 is composed of a light-emitting element (LED) that is driven by dynamic lighting control. The image display device 31 is composed of a variable display device such as a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display. The image display device 31 has a display screen 31a capable of displaying performance images. The display screen 31a can be configured with three first-effect symbol display areas a1 to a3 (not shown) on which the first-effect symbol z1 (not shown) is displayed, and one second-effect symbol display area a4 (not shown) on which the second-effect symbol z2 (not shown) is displayed. The first display symbol z1 is composed of identification information (symbols) such as numbers, letters, symbols, and characters. Each of the first display symbol display areas a1 to a3 allows for the display of the first display symbol z1 changing and stopping. The second display symbol z2 is composed of a color bar. The second display symbol display area a4 allows for the display of the second display symbol z2 changing and stopping. The display of changing symbols z1 and z2 refers to a display in which, in each of the first symbol display areas a1 to a3, the first symbol z1 moves (scrolls), and the type of the second symbol z2 displayed in the second symbol display area a4 changes (the color represented by the color bar changes sequentially). The display of stopped symbols z1 and z2 refers to a display in which one type of first symbol z1 is stopped at the lottery result display position in each first symbol display area a1 to a3, and one type of second symbol z2 is displayed in the second symbol display area a4 (the color bar represents a predetermined color). Then, the result of the special symbol lottery (either the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery) is displayed based on the combination of the first symbol z1 that is stopped and displayed in the three first symbol display areas a1 to a3, and the second symbol z2 that is stopped and displayed in the second symbol display area a4. Furthermore, the display screen 31a can be configured to include reserved symbol display areas b1 and b2 (not shown) where reserved symbol Hz (not shown) is displayed. The reserved symbol display area b1 displays the reserved symbol Hz corresponding to the start information during the notification display (special symbol variation display and stop display). The reserved symbol display area b2 displays the reserved symbol Hz corresponding to the start information for which the notification display is pending.

[0026] The game board 11 is equipped with a main display unit 60. The main display unit 60 is composed of multiple lighting elements (segments). Each lighting element is composed of a light-emitting element (in this embodiment, an LED). The main display unit 60 displays information related to the game. Specifically, the main display unit 60 is composed of a special figure 1 display device, a special figure 2 display device, a general figure display device, and a status display device. Specifically, the main display unit 60 is composed of 32 lighting elements (LED1 to LED32). In the main display unit 60, LED1 to LED8 are the display devices for Feature Drawing 1, LED7 to LED16 are the display devices for Feature Drawing 2, LED17 to LED24 are the display devices for General Feature Drawing, and LED25 to LED32 are the display devices for Status.

[0027] The Special Symbol 1 display device is capable of displaying the fluctuations and stops of the first special symbol, which consists of numbers and symbols. The Special Symbol 1 display device then displays the result of the first special symbol lottery based on the first special symbol that is stopped. The Special Symbol 2 display device is capable of displaying the fluctuations and stops of the second special symbol, which consists of numbers and symbols. The Special Symbol 2 display device then displays the result of the second special symbol lottery based on the second special symbol that has stopped. Here, the display of special symbols (first special symbol or second special symbol) in the special symbol display device and the display of performance symbols z1 and z2 in the performance symbol display areas a1 to a4 are associated with the timing of when the variable display starts, when the stop display starts, and the lottery result indicated by the stopped display. Furthermore, if the first special symbol (stopped symbol) displayed on the special symbol 1 display device becomes a specific symbol (minor win symbol), or if the second special symbol (stopped symbol) displayed on the special symbol 2 display device becomes a specific symbol (minor win symbol), a minor win game state, which is advantageous to the player, is created.

[0028] The regular symbol display device is capable of displaying the fluctuations and stops of regular symbols, which consist of numbers, patterns, etc. The regular symbol display device then displays the result of the regular symbol lottery based on the regular symbols that have stopped. When the regular symbols displayed on the regular symbol display device become a specific symbol (a regular symbol winning symbol), a regular symbol winning game state, which is advantageous to the player, is created. The status display device shows the number of times the results of the first special symbol lottery are pending (Special Symbol 1 pending), the number of times the results of the second special symbol lottery are pending (Special Symbol 2 pending), the number of times the results of the regular symbol lottery are pending (Regular Symbol pending), and instructions to launch game balls into the right-side game area RR.

[0029] Furthermore, the pachinko machine 1 is equipped with detection sensors that can detect various abnormal conditions. In this embodiment, detection sensors such as a glass frame opening sensor 107, an inner frame opening sensor 108, a vibration detection sensor 113, a radio wave detection sensor 114, and a magnetic detection sensor 115 are provided. The glass frame release sensor 107 detects the release of the front frame unit 4 relative to the inner frame unit 3. In response to the release of the front frame unit 4 relative to the inner frame unit 3, the glass frame release sensor 107 transmits a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 via the dispensing control board e3. The inner frame release sensor 108 detects the release of the inner frame unit 3 relative to the outer frame unit 2. In response to the release of the inner frame unit 3 relative to the outer frame unit 2, the inner frame release sensor 108 transmits a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 via the dispensing control board e3. The vibration detection sensor 113 detects vibrations of the game board 11. In this embodiment, the vibration detection sensor 113 is installed on the game board 11. The vibration detection sensor 113 then transmits a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of vibrations of the game board 11.

[0030] The radio wave detection sensor 114 detects radio waves generated around the game board 11. In this embodiment, two radio wave detection sensors 114 are installed in the game board 11. Each radio wave detection sensor 114 transmits a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of radio waves. The magnetic detection sensor 115 detects the magnetic field generated around the game board 11. In this embodiment, three magnetic detection sensors 115 are provided. Specifically, one magnetic detection sensor 115 is provided in the inner frame unit 3 (discharge path). In addition, two magnetic detection sensors 115 are provided on the game board 11. The magnetic detection sensor 115 provided in the inner frame unit 3 transmits a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 via the payout control board e3 in response to the detection of magnetic field. In addition, each magnetic detection sensor 115 provided on the game board 11 transmits a detection signal to the main control circuit 200 in response to the detection of magnetic field.

[0031] (Configuration of the lower attacker unit 80) Next, I will explain the configuration of the lower attacker unit 80. Figure 45 is a perspective view of the lower attacker unit 80. Figure 46 is an exploded perspective view of the lower attacker unit 80. Figure 47 is a diagram showing the passages formed in the lower attacker unit 80. The lower attacker unit 80 constitutes part of the game board 11. As will be described later, the lower attacker unit 80 has a flow passage (path) FR through which the game balls flow down (pass through), a first large prize opening 53 into which the game balls flowing down the flow passage FR can enter, and a large prize opening internal region IR through which the game balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 flow down. The flow passage FR constitutes part of the right-side region RR.

[0032] As shown in Figures 45 to 47, the lower attacker unit 80 is composed of a base member 81 and a cover member 82 positioned on the front side of the base member 81. The base member 81 is formed in a flat plate shape. The front surface of the base member 81 constitutes a part of the surface of the game board 11. The front surface of the base member 81 demarcates (forms) the rear side of the flow passage FR and also demarcates the rear side of the large prize winning area IR. The cover member 82 is made of a transparent or translucent material (such as resin) so that it is possible to see the game balls flowing down the flow passage FR and the game balls flowing down the large prize opening internal area IR. The cover member 82 is composed of a front plate 82a and a partition wall 82b provided on the back of the front plate 82a. The front panel 82a is formed in a flat shape. The back surface of the front panel 82a demarcates (forms) the front side of the flow passage FR and also demarcates the front side of the large prize winning area IR. The partition wall 82b is provided so as to rise from the back of the front panel 82a toward the back side. The partition wall 82b is provided integrally with the front panel 82a. In the lower attacker unit 80, the base member 81 and the front panel 82a are arranged at a predetermined interval (an interval that allows game balls to pass through). In the lower attacker unit 80, the partition wall 82b partitions (forms) the flow passage FR, the first large prize opening 53, and the large prize opening internal area IR in the area between the front of the base member 81 and the back of the front panel 82a. That is, the side surface of the partition wall 82b partitions (forms) the side surface of the flow passage FR and also partitions the side surface of the large prize opening internal area IR.

[0033] As shown in Figure 47, a single flow passage FR is formed inside the lower attacker unit 80 as a passage (path) that passes through the inside of the lower attacker unit 80. That is, the flow passage FR is partitioned by a partition wall 82b in the area between the front of the base member 81 and the back of the front plate 82a. Note that in Figure 47, the flow passage FR is shown as a dashed line. Furthermore, inside the lower attacker unit 80, there is a first large prize opening 53 into which game balls flowing down the flow passage FR can enter, and a large prize opening internal area IR into which game balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 flow down. Specifically, the area between the front of the base member 81 and the back of the front plate 82a is partitioned by a partition wall 82b, and the first large prize opening 53 is formed by leaving a part of the partition wall 82b that partitions the large prize opening internal area IR open. The first large prize opening 53 is provided with a first special electric mechanism 53a that opens and closes the first large prize opening 53. The first large prize opening 53 is located in the middle of the flow passage FR. The first large prize opening 53 opens upward. The first special electric mechanism 53a is composed of an opening / closing plate P1. The opening / closing plate P1 is formed in a roughly rectangular flat plate shape in plan view. The opening / closing plate P1 is positioned at an angle such that the downstream side (left side in this embodiment) is lower, and it is possible to roll game balls on its upper surface. The opening / closing plate P1 can be displaced between a position on the front side of the base member 81 and a position on the back side of the base member 81 through a through hole (not shown) provided in the base member 81. In this case, if the first special electric mechanism 53a is in the closed state, the opening / closing plate P1 is positioned on the front side of the base member 81, thereby closing the first large prize opening 53. As a result, the game balls flowing down (passing through) the flow passage FR roll on the upper surface of the opening / closing plate P1 and pass over the first large prize opening 53. Therefore, it becomes impossible (or difficult) for the game balls flowing down the flow passage FR to enter the first large prize opening 53. On the other hand, when the first special electric mechanism 53a is in the open position, the opening / closing plate P1 is positioned on the back side of the base member 81, thereby opening the first large prize opening 53. This makes it possible (easy) for game balls flowing down (passing through) the flow passage FR to enter the first large prize opening 53.

[0034] The game balls that enter the first large prize opening 53 flow down (pass through) the internal region IR of the large prize opening and are discharged to the back side (discharge path) of the game board 11 via the discharge port h provided in the base member 81. The large prize winning area IR is composed of an upstream passage R1, a first branch passage Ra and a second branch passage Rb branching off from the upstream passage R1, and a downstream passage R2 to which the first branch passage Ra and the second branch passage Rb merge. A first count switch 103a is provided in the upstream passage R1. A V-region switch 105a (V-region) is provided in the first branch passage Ra. A discharge region switch 105b (discharge region) is provided in the second branch passage Rb. Furthermore, a distribution means 53b is provided at the point where the upstream passage R1 branches into the first branch passage Ra and the second branch passage Rb (hereinafter referred to as the "branching point"). The distribution means 53b includes an opening / closing plate P2. The opening / closing plate P2 is formed in a substantially rectangular flat plate shape when viewed from above. The opening / closing plate P2 is positioned at an angle such that the downstream side (right side in this embodiment) is lower, and it is possible to roll game balls on its upper surface. The opening / closing plate P2 can be displaced between a position on the front side of the base member 81 and a position on the back side of the base member 81 through a through hole (not shown) provided in the base member 81. In this case, if the distribution means 53b is in a non-V-passing state, the opening / closing plate P2 is positioned on the front side of the base member 81, thereby closing the entrance to the first branch passage Ra. As a result, the game balls that have flowed down (passed through) the upstream passage R1 (game balls that have reached the branching point) roll on the upper surface of the opening / closing plate P2 and flow into the second branch passage Rb. Therefore, the game balls that have passed through the upstream passage R1 are distributed to the second branch passage Rb (discharge area). On the other hand, when the distribution means 53b is in the V-passing state, the opening / closing plate P2 is positioned on the back side of the base member 81, thereby opening the entrance to the first branch passage Ra. This allows game balls that have flowed down (passed through) the upstream passage R1 (game balls that have reached the branching point) to flow into the first branch passage Ra. Therefore, game balls that have passed through the upstream passage R1 are distributed to the first branch passage Ra (V region).

[0035] All game balls that enter the first large prize opening 53 flow into the upstream passage R1. After the game balls that flow into the upstream passage R1 are detected by the first count switch 103a, they reach a branching point and are distributed by the distribution means 53b to either the first branch passage Ra or the second branch passage Rb. Game balls allocated to the first branch passage Ra are detected by the V-area switch 105a and then flow into the downstream passage R2. On the other hand, game balls allocated to the second branch passage Rb are detected by the discharge area switch 105b and then flow into the downstream passage R2. The game balls that flow into the downstream passage R2 are then discharged to the back side (discharge passage) of the game board 11 via the discharge port h.

[0036] In the lower attacker unit 80, the large prize winning area IR is sealed by the base member 81 and the cover member 82, which may make maintenance of the large prize winning area IR difficult. For example, since the large prize winning area IR is sealed by the base member 81 and the cover member 82, when inspecting the V area switch 105a, if the momentum of the game balls that have flowed down (passed through) the upstream passage R1 (game balls that have reached the branching point) is strong, even though the distribution means 53b is set to the V-passing state, the balls may flow into the second branching passage Rb instead of the first branching passage Ra, which may make inspection difficult. Furthermore, because the large prize winning area IR is sealed by the base member 81 and the cover member 82, it becomes difficult to resolve ball jams that occur within the large prize winning area IR (especially at branching points), and cleaning the large prize winning area IR may become difficult.

[0037] Therefore, in the lower attacker unit 80, a maintenance hole mh is provided in the front plate 82a of the cover member 82 for performing maintenance on the large prize winning area IR. The maintenance hole mh is provided in the area of ​​the front plate 82a that demarcates the front side (front side) of the large prize winning area IR. In particular, the maintenance hole mh is located between the distribution means 53b (branching point) and the discharge area switch 105b (discharge area), and is positioned so as to not overlap with the distribution means 53b when viewed from the front side. That is, the maintenance hole mh is located downstream of the distribution means 53b (branching point) and upstream of the discharge area switch 105b (discharge area). In this embodiment, the maintenance hole mh is provided at the entrance of the second branch passage Rb. In other words, if a maintenance hole mh is provided in the front plate 82a of the cover member 82, there is a risk that it will be easy to perform an unauthorized act that interferes with the sorting means 53b by inserting foreign objects (such as wires) through the maintenance hole mh. Therefore, by providing the maintenance hole mh in a position that does not overlap with the sorting means 53b when viewed from the front side, it is possible to prevent unauthorized acts that interfere with the sorting means 53b by inserting foreign objects (such as wires) through the maintenance hole mh. In particular, by positioning the maintenance hole mh between the distribution means 53b (branching point) and the discharge area switch 105b (discharge area), when inspecting the V area switch 105a, it becomes possible to guide the game balls that have flowed down (passed through) the upstream passage R1 (game balls that have reached the branching point) to the first branching passage Ra (V area) using a jig inserted into the maintenance hole mh, thereby facilitating inspection. Furthermore, the jig inserted into the maintenance hole mh makes it possible to resolve ball jams that have occurred in the large prize opening internal drainage area IR (especially at the branching point), and also makes it easier to clean the large prize opening internal drainage area IR (especially at the branching point).

[0038] In this embodiment, a maintenance hole mh corresponding to the distribution means 53b (one maintenance hole mh) is provided within the area that demarcates the front side of the large prize winning area IR. However, it is also acceptable to have a configuration in which a maintenance hole mh corresponding to the distribution means 53b and a maintenance hole mh corresponding to the first special electric mechanism 53a are provided within the area that demarcates the front side of the large prize winning area IR. The maintenance hole mh is a through-hole that connects (continues) the outside of the cover member 82 to the inside of the large prize winning area IR. The maintenance hole mh is provided on a surface in the large prize winning area IR that the game ball can come into contact with (slide and roll). The maintenance hole mh is located at a higher position (upper position) than the distribution means 53b. This makes it easy to guide the game balls that have flowed down (passed through) the upstream passage R1 (game balls that have reached the branching point) to the first branching passage Ra (V region) when inspecting the V region switch 105a, by using a jig inserted into the maintenance hole mh. The maintenance hole mh is a roughly circular through-hole when viewed from the front. The outer diameter (diameter) of the maintenance hole mh is smaller than the radius of the game ball. This prevents the game ball flowing down the large prize area IR from contacting the opening end of the maintenance hole mh, and prevents the maintenance hole mh from interfering with the game ball passing through the large prize area IR. In this embodiment, the outer diameter (diameter) of the maintenance hole mh is larger than 1 / 5 of the diameter of the game ball. It is preferable that the straight-line distance from the center of the maintenance hole mh to the distribution means 53b be less than or equal to the radius of the game ball. This makes it easy to guide the game balls that have flowed down (passed through) the upstream passage R1 (game balls that have reached the branching point) to the first branching passage Ra (V region) by using a jig inserted into the maintenance hole mh when inspecting the V region switch 105a. In this embodiment, a protrusion cp is provided between the maintenance hole mh and the sorting means 53b. This makes it difficult to perform fraudulent acts that interfere with the sorting means 53b by inserting foreign objects (such as wires) through the maintenance hole mh. The protrusion cp is provided so as to project from the back (rear surface) of the front plate 82a toward the rear side (rear surface side). The height of the protrusion cp is smaller than the radius of the game ball.

[0039] (Control system configuration) Next, the configuration of the control system in pachinko machine 1 will be explained. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of a pachinko machine. Figure 4 is the address map of the memory area used by the CPU 210. The pachinko machine 1 is configured as a circuit board that includes a main control board e1, a sub-control board e2, a payout control board e3, an inner frame board e4, an external terminal board e5, a connection board e6, a panel board e7, and the like. The main control board e1, sub-control board e2, dispensing control board e3, inner frame board e4, external terminal board e5, connection board e6, and panel board e7 are independent (separate) circuit boards. Furthermore, the main control board e1, sub-control board e2, dispensing control board e3, inner frame board e4, external terminal board e5, connection board e6, and panel board e7 are each housed in individual board cases (not shown). The main control board e1, sub-control board e2, and panel board e7 are included in the game board unit 10. Specifically, the main control board e1, sub-control board e2, and panel board e7 are mounted on the back side of the game board 11. The dispensing control board e3, inner frame board e4, external terminal board e5, and connection board e6 are included in the inner frame unit 3. Specifically, the dispensing control board e3, inner frame board e4, external terminal board e5, and connection board e6 are mounted on the back side of the inner frame of the inner frame unit 3.

[0040] Furthermore, the pachinko machine 1 is equipped with various control circuits. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the pachinko machine 1 includes a main control circuit 200, a performance control circuit 300, a payout control circuit 400, and a power supply circuit 600 that supplies power to each of the control circuits 200, 300, 400, etc. Each control circuit 200, 300, and 400 is a microcomputer comprising a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs related to the progress of the game and data necessary for the progress of the game, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that serves as a temporary storage area used by the CPU to carry out processing based on the programs stored in the ROM.

[0041] The main control circuit 200 is mounted on the main control board e1. The main control circuit 200 consists of a CPU 210, a ROM 220, a RAM 230, an input port 240, an output port 250, a frequency generation circuit 260, and a hardware random number generation circuit 270. The input port 240 is configured to include multiple input ports (in this embodiment, input ports 0 to 3). Input port 0 receives detection signals from the glass frame release sensor 107, the inner frame release sensor 108, the vibration detection sensor 113, the one radio wave detection sensor 114, and the three magnetic detection sensors 115, among others. The detection signals from the glass frame release sensor 107, the inner frame release sensor 108, and the magnetic detection sensor 115 located on the inner frame unit 3 are input to the input port 0 via the dispensing control board e3 and the inner frame board e4. The detection signal from the vibration detection sensor 113, the detection signal from the radio wave detection sensor 114, and the detection signals from each magnetic detection sensor 115 installed on the game board 11 are input to input port 0 via the panel board e7.

[0042] Input port 1 receives signals such as the RAM clear signal from the RAM clear switch, the detection signal from the key rotation detection switch 111, and the detection signal from the set value selection switch. Input port 2 receives detection signals from the first count switch 103a, the second count switch 103b, the V-area switch 105a, the discharge area switch 105b, the left prize slot switch 106, the output switch 109, and the other radio wave detection sensor 114, among others. Input port 3 receives detection signals from the start switch 101 in Figure 1, the start switch 102 in Figure 2, and the gate switches 104a and 104b, among others. Each input port (input port 0 to input port 3) is provided with a receive memory area corresponding to each signal (each detection sensor). Each receive memory area is set with 1 bit of data indicating the reception status of the signal corresponding to that receive memory area. Specifically, each receiving memory area is set to "1" when a signal corresponding to that receiving memory area is input, and to "0" when no signal corresponding to that receiving memory area is input.

[0043] The output port 250 is configured to include multiple output ports (in this embodiment, output ports 0 to 4). Output port 0 outputs data signals ("SEGDATA0" to "SEGDATA7") for controlling the illumination of the main display unit 60. The data signals output from output port 0 are then input to the source driver (not shown) of the main display unit 60. Output port 1 outputs common signals ("COM0" to "COM3") for controlling the illumination of the main display unit 60 and the performance display unit 61. The common signals output from output port 1 are input to a sink driver (not shown) common to the main display unit 60 and the performance display unit 61. Output port 2 outputs external signals (OUT1~OUT6, OUT8). The external signals output from output port 2 are input to the hall computer 450 via the payout control board e3, the inner frame board e4, and the external terminal board e5. External signals (OUT1~OUT6, OUT8) output from output port 2 are input to the hall computer 450 via the payout control board e3, the inner frame board e4, and the external terminal board e5.

[0044] Output port 3 outputs control signals for controlling the drive of the standard electric prize solenoid 64, the first large prize solenoid 65, the second large prize solenoid 66, the V distribution solenoid 67, and so on. Each control signal output from output port 3 is input to each solenoid 64-67 via the panel board e7. Output port 4 outputs data signals ("7SEGDATA0" to "7SEGDATA7") for controlling the illumination of the performance display device 61. The data signals output from output port 4 are then input to the source driver (not shown) of the performance display device 61.

[0045] Furthermore, the main control circuit 200 is configured to include command output port 1 and command output port 2. The CPU 210 transmits control commands (subcommand transmission signals) from command output port 1 to the performance control circuit 300, and transmits control commands (payout command transmission signals) from command output port 2 to the payout control circuit 400. Command output port 1 and command output port 2 each have a data register for transmission (not shown), a FIFO (First In First Out) buffer (not shown), and a shift register for transmission (not shown), respectively. The data register for transmission outputs the control command entered based on the subcommand transmission process (step S2-4) described later to the FIFO buffer. The FIFO buffer consists of multiple registers and is capable of storing multiple control commands. The FIFO buffer stores the control commands input from the transmit data register and outputs the stored control commands to the transmit shift register in the order they were input. The transmission shift register performs a parallel-to-serial conversion on the control commands input from the FIFO buffer and transmits them as serial data to the performance control circuit 300 or the payout control circuit 400.

[0046] Furthermore, the main control board e1 is equipped with a test signal output circuit (not shown). In the test signal management process described later (step S4-18), the CPU 210 generates test information (test signals) indicating the internal state (jackpot game state, time-saving control execution state, probability state of special symbol lottery, etc.), and stores the generated test signals in the port output request buffer of the RAM 230. As a result, the test signals stored in the port output request buffer are output from a predetermined output port. The test signal output from the designated output port is then input to the interface board of a test computer (not shown) via a test signal output circuit. Furthermore, detection signals from the start port switch 101 (Figure 1), the start port switch 102 (Figure 2), the first count switch 103a, the second count switch 103b, the gate switches 104a and 104b, the V-area switch 105a, the discharge area switch 105b, the left prize entry switch 106, and the out switch 109 are input to the input port 240 and also to the interface board of the test computer via the test signal output circuit. Furthermore, control signals for controlling the drive of each solenoid 64-67 output from output port 3 are input to each solenoid 64-67 and also to the interface board of the test computer via the test signal output circuit.

[0047] The main control circuit 200 is configured to include a memory area used by the CPU 210. As shown in Figure 4, the memory area used by the CPU 210 is configured to include a memory area allocated to the ROM 220 (0000H to 2FFFH) and a memory area allocated to the RAM 230 (F000H to F3FFH). In Figure 4, the address used to identify the memory region is shown in hexadecimal (the "H" indicates that it is a hexadecimal number).

[0048] ROM220 (the memory area of ​​ROM220) is provided with a used area m1 (0000H to 1A7AH) and an unused area m2 (2000H to 2BFFH). The usage area m1 stores (reserves) programs and data for controlling the progress of the game. The unused area m2 stores (reserves) programs and data for executing tests specified in the Gaming Machine Regulations, and programs and data for controlling the display of the performance display device 61 (including programs and data for calculating the base ratio described later). The used area m1 is comprised of a program area (0000H~0A89H), an unused area (0A8AH~0FFFH), and a data area (1000H~1A7AH). The program area stores the program for controlling the progress of the game. The data area stores the data for controlling the progress of the game. Note that the used area m1 may be configured without including the unused area. The unused area m2 is provided with a program area (2000H~27FFH) and a data area (2800H~2BFFH). The program area stores a program for executing tests specified in the gaming machine regulations and a program for controlling the display of the performance display device 61. The data area stores data for executing tests specified in the gaming machine regulations and data for controlling the display of the performance display device 61.

[0049] In addition to the used area m1 and the unused area m2, ROM220 also includes unused areas (1A7BH~1DFFH), a ROM comment area (1E00H~1EFFH), a program management area (2FC0H~2FFFH), and more. The ROM comment area stores arbitrary data such as the program title and version. On the other hand, the program management area stores information necessary for the CPU 210 to execute various programs. Furthermore, the ROM220 has an unused area m3 of a predetermined number of bytes (for example, 4 bytes or more) between the used area m1 and the unused area m2. This clarifies the boundary between the used area m1 and the unused area m2.

[0050] RAM230 (the memory area of ​​RAM230) is provided with a used area M1 (F000H~F1FFH) and an unused area M2 (F210H~F228H). The usage area M1 is used when executing processing based on the program (a program for controlling the progress of the game) stored in the usage area m1. In other words, various data are temporarily stored in the usage area M1 when executing processing based on the program (a program for controlling the progress of the game) stored in the usage area m1. Unused area M2 is used when executing processing based on the program stored in unused area m2 (a program for executing processing related to the tests specified in the gaming machine regulations, or a program for controlling the display of the performance display device 61). In other words, various data are temporarily stored in unused area M2 when executing processing based on the program stored in unused area m2 (a program for executing processing related to the tests specified in the gaming machine regulations, or a program for controlling the display of the performance display device 61).

[0051] Specifically, the usable area M1 temporarily stores input / output data from the main control circuit 200, data for calculation processing, various counters (random number counter, timer counter, etc.), and flags for managing lottery results and game status. In particular, the usable area M1 is provided with an area (start information storage area, described later) for storing start information acquired in response to detection signals from the special figure 1 start port switch 101, the special figure 2 start port switch 102, and the gate switches 104a and 104b. The used area M1 includes a work area (F000H~F12AH), an unused area (F12BH~F1D7H), and a stack area (F1D8H~F1FFH). The work area is used to temporarily store various data while the program stored in the used area m1 (a program for controlling the progress of the game) is being executed. On the other hand, the stack area is used to temporarily save various data while the program stored in the used area m1 (a program for controlling the progress of the game) is being executed. Note that the used area M1 may be configured without including the unused area. The unused area M2 is provided with a work area (F210H~F21FH) and a stack area (F220H~F228H). The work area is used as a temporary storage area for various data while a program stored in the unused area m2 (a program for executing tests specified in the gaming machine regulations, or a program for controlling the display of the performance display device 61) is being executed. On the other hand, the stack area is used as a temporary storage area for various data while a program stored in the unused area m2 (a program for executing tests specified in the gaming machine regulations, or a program for controlling the display of the performance display device 61) is being executed. Furthermore, the RAM230 has an unused area M3 of a predetermined number of bytes (4 bytes or more) between the used area M1 and the unused area M2. This clarifies the boundary between the used area M1 and the unused area M2.

[0052] In particular, in this embodiment, processing based on a program (a program for controlling the progress of the game) stored in the used area m1 is permitted to refer to data stored in the unused area M2. On the other hand, processing based on the program stored in the used area m1 (a program for controlling the progress of the game) is prohibited from overwriting (changing) the data stored in the unused area M2. Furthermore, in processing based on a program stored in the unused area m2 (a program for executing tests specified in the Gaming Machine Regulations, or a program for controlling the display of the performance display device 61), it is permitted to refer to data stored in the used area M1. On the other hand, it is prohibited for data stored in the used area M1 to be rewritten (modified) by processing based on a program stored in the unused area m2 (a program for executing tests specified in the gaming machine regulations, or a program for controlling the display of the performance display device 61). Furthermore, the gameplay in pachinko machine 1 can be completed (progressed) by a program (a program for controlling the progress of the game) stored in the usage area m1.

[0053] The frequency generation circuit 260 generates a clock (synchronization signal) at a predetermined clock frequency (12 MHz in this embodiment) and outputs this clock to the CPU 210 and the hardware random number generation circuit 270, respectively. The hardware random number generation circuit 270 is composed of a first loop counter that generates winning random numbers for the normal symbol lottery, a second loop counter that generates winning random numbers for the first special symbol lottery, a third loop counter that generates winning random numbers for the second special symbol lottery, and a fourth loop counter that generates random numbers for the reach group. The first loop counter generates a winning random number for the normal symbol lottery by updating the value of the loop counter by 1 within a predetermined range (in this embodiment, within the range of 0 to 65535) each time one clock signal is input from the frequency generation circuit 260. In this embodiment, the value of the first loop counter is updated every 0.083 [μs] (1 [s] / 12 [MHz] = 0.083 [μs]). The second loop counter generates a winning random number for the first special symbol lottery by updating the value of the loop counter by 1 within a predetermined range (in this embodiment, within the range of 0 to 65535) each time one clock signal is input from the frequency generation circuit 260. In this embodiment, the value of the second loop counter is updated every 0.083 [μs] (1 [s] / 12 [MHz] = 0.083 [μs]).

[0054] The third loop counter generates a winning random number for the second special symbol lottery by updating the value of the loop counter by 1 within a predetermined range (in this embodiment, within the range of 0 to 65535) each time one clock signal is input from the frequency generation circuit 260. In this embodiment, the value of the third loop counter is updated every 0.083 [μs] (1 [s] / 12 [MHz] = 0.083 [μs]). The fourth loop counter generates a reach group random number by updating the value of the loop counter by 1 within a predetermined range (in this embodiment, within the range of 0 to 10006) every 32 clocks input from the frequency generation circuit 260 (once for every 32 divisions of the clock frequency). In this embodiment, the value of the fourth loop counter is updated every 2.666 [μs] (32 [s] / 12 [MHz] = 2.666 [μs]).

[0055] Furthermore, the main control board e1 is provided with a set value operation unit (not shown). The set value operation unit includes a key rotation detection switch 111 (see Figure 3), a set value selection switch 112 (see Figure 3), and a set value display device 62 (see Figure 3). The key rotation detection switch 111 has an operating unit that can be switched between a setting permission state and a setting prohibition state. When the operating unit of the key rotation detection switch 111 is switched to the setting permission state, it outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200. On the other hand, when the operating unit of the key rotation detection switch 111 is switched to the setting prohibition state, it stops outputting the detection signal to the main control circuit 200. In this embodiment, the operating part of the key rotation detection switch 111 is provided with a keyhole into which a special key is inserted. The key rotation detection switch 111 can switch the state of the operating part (setting enabled state or setting disabled state) by inserting the special key into the keyhole. In other words, the key rotation detection switch 111 cannot switch the state of the operating part (setting enabled state or setting disabled state) unless the special key is inserted into the keyhole. Furthermore, the key rotation detection switch 111 allows the special key to be inserted into the keyhole and removed from the keyhole when the operating unit is in the setting-disabled state. On the other hand, the key rotation detection switch 111 makes it impossible to insert the special key into the keyhole and remove the special key from the keyhole when the operating unit is in the setting-allowed state. The setting value selection switch 112 has an operating part that can be pressed. Each time the operating part of the setting value selection switch 112 is pressed, it outputs a detection signal to the main control circuit 200. The setting value display device 62 is composed of a 7-segment LED or the like. The setting value display device 62 displays the setting value, which will be described later. Note that the setting value display device 62 is located on the back side of the game board 11, making it impossible for the player to see it.

[0056] Here, we will explain the setting information (setting values) that are set in Pachinko Machine 1. The "setting information" is information that specifies the probability of winning in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery and second special symbol lottery) (in this embodiment, the probability of winning a "minor prize"). The RAM of the main control circuit 200 is provided with a setting information storage area. In the setting information storage area, one of the values ​​from "1" to "6" is set (stored) as setting information. In the pachinko machine 1, the probability of winning the special symbol lottery is set to a probability corresponding to the value set in the setting information storage area. In the following explanation, the value stored in the configuration information storage area will be referred to as the "configuration value". In this embodiment, the winning probabilities for the special symbol lottery corresponding to each setting value are, in descending order of winning probability, as follows: the winning probability for setting value = "6", the winning probability for setting value = "5", the winning probability for setting value = "4", the winning probability for setting value = "3", the winning probability for setting value = "2", and the winning probability for setting value = "1" (high winning probability → low winning probability).

[0057] In particular, with Pachinko Machine 1, it is possible to change (select) the settings when the power is turned on. Here, the change of settings is performed by the administrator of Pachinko Machine 1 (such as an employee of the amusement facility where Pachinko Machine 1 is installed). In the pachinko machine 1, the setting value change permission state is initiated when the power is turned on while the operating part of the key rotation detection switch 111 is displaced to the setting permission state. While the setting value change permission state is active, the setting value display device 62 displays a value (setting value) that is set in the setting information storage area. Furthermore, while the setting value change permission state is active, each time the setting value selection switch 112 is pressed, the value (setting value) set in the setting information storage area is changed. When the value (setting value) set in the setting information storage area is changed, the value displayed on the setting value display device 62 (the value indicating the setting value) is also changed accordingly. This allows the administrator of the pachinko machine 1 to set (select) a desired value from "1" to "6" as the setting value by pressing the setting value selection switch 112 while the setting value change permission state is active. Then, in the pachinko machine 1, the setting value change permission state is terminated when the operation section of the key rotation detection switch 111 is switched from the setting permission state to the setting prohibition state. As a result, it becomes impossible to change the value (setting value) set in the setting information storage area. In addition, the display of the value indicating the setting value on the setting value display device 62 is terminated when the setting value change permission state is terminated.

[0058] Furthermore, the main control board e1 is equipped with a performance display device 61. However, since the performance display device 61 is located on the back side of the game board 11, it is not visible to the player. The performance display device 61 is configured to include a plurality of lighting elements (segments). Each lighting element is composed of a light-emitting element (in this embodiment, an LED). The performance display device 61 displays information (a base ratio, described later) calculated based on the number of game balls launched into the game area 30 and the number of prize balls dispensed according to the number of game balls entering predetermined entry points (in this embodiment, the first starting point 51, the second starting point 52, and other prize entry points 55a, 55b, 55c). The performance display device 61 is composed of four (four-digit) display units (not shown). Each display unit is composed of eight lighting elements. Specifically, each display unit is composed of a 7-segment LED capable of displaying numbers, symbols, etc., and a dot-segment LED capable of displaying dots such as decimal points. Specifically, the performance display device 61 is composed of 32 lighting elements (LEDs 33 to 64). In the performance display device 61, LEDs 33 to 40 form the first digit display, LEDs 41 to 48 form the second digit display, LEDs 49 to 56 form the third digit display, and LEDs 57 to 64 form the fourth digit display. The main control circuit 200 calculates the base ratio, described later, while a predetermined game state is occurring (in this embodiment, while a low probability special feature state is occurring and while the time-saving control is stopped). The calculated base ratio is then displayed on the performance display device 61. The "base ratio" is the ratio (percentage) of the number of balls dispensed to the number of balls that go out. The main control circuit 200 calculates the base ratio for each predetermined interval (period). In this embodiment, a predetermined interval is defined in which a predetermined number of out balls (60,000 balls in this embodiment) is detected (discharged). That is, each interval starts when the previous interval ends and ends when the number of out balls detected during the current interval reaches the predetermined number (60,000 balls). The main control circuit 200 calculates the base ratio as needed (in real time) during each interval. Here, a predetermined time may be defined as the predetermined interval. In other words, the main control circuit 200 may be configured to calculate the base ratio for each predetermined time interval. "Number of out balls" refers to the number of out balls. "Out balls" refers to game balls that have been ejected from the game area 30. In this embodiment, out balls refer to game balls that have passed through the ejection path (game balls detected by the out switch 109). Here, the game balls ejected from the outlets 57 and 58 may also be considered as out balls. Specifically, the out switch 109 is configured to detect only the game balls ejected from the outlets 57 and 58, and the game balls detected by the out switch 109 may also be considered as out balls. "Payout amount" refers to the total number of prize balls dispensed in accordance with the number of game balls that enter the first starting port 51, the second starting port 52, and the other prize winning ports 55a, 55b, and 55c. The performance display device 61 alternately displays the first base ratio and the second base ratio at predetermined intervals (5.0 [s] in this embodiment). The "first base ratio" is the base ratio for the current section (the base ratio calculated for the period from the start of the current section to the present). The "second base ratio" is the base ratio for the previous interval (the final base ratio calculated for the previous interval). Specifically, in the performance display device 61, the upper two digits of the four-digit display section show information for identifying the type of base ratio (first base ratio or second base ratio). In addition, the lower two digits of the four-digit display section of the performance display device 61 show the base ratio (percentage).

[0059] The performance control circuit 300 is mounted on the sub-control board e2. The performance control circuit 300 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, input ports, and output ports. The performance control circuit 300 controls the display of performance images on the image display device 31, the lighting of each lamp 20, 21, the output of sound from the sound generator 22, the driving of motors that drive various movable parts (not shown), etc., based on control commands received from the main control circuit 200. The ROM of the performance control circuit 300 stores programs related to the progress of the performance, data necessary for the progress of the performance, and other such information. The RAM of the performance control circuit 300 temporarily stores control commands received from the main control circuit 200, data for calculation processing, and other similar information. The CPU of the performance control circuit 300 determines the content of the performance to be executed based on the control commands received from the main control circuit 200. Then, according to the performance program (performance control table) corresponding to the determined content of the performance, it generates display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, motor control data, etc. Then, it outputs control signals based on each of the generated control data to the image display device 31, sound generator 22, each lamp 20, 21, each motor, etc.

[0060] The payout control circuit 400 is mounted on the payout control board e3. The payout control circuit 400 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, an input port, and an output port. The payout control circuit 400 controls the game ball launching operation of the game ball launcher 430 based on the detection signal input from the launch volume. Specifically, the payout control circuit 400 controls the game ball launching operation of the game ball launcher 430 so that the game balls are launched into the game area 30 with a strength corresponding to the detection signal input from the launch volume. Furthermore, the payout control circuit 400 controls the game ball payout operation by the game ball payout device 440 based on the control commands received from the main control circuit 200 and the ball dispensing instruction signals received from the CR unit 500. Specifically, when the ball dispensing button 7a is pressed, it transmits a ball dispensing operation signal to the CR unit 500 via the connection board e6. Upon receiving the ball dispensing operation signal, the CR unit 500 subtracts the number of units required to dispense a predetermined number of balls from the remaining units of the redeemable medium recorded on the inserted prepaid card, updates the record of remaining units of the redeemable medium on the prepaid card, and transmits a ball dispensing instruction signal to the payout control circuit 400 via the connection board e6, instructing the payout of a predetermined number of game balls. Furthermore, upon receiving the ball dispensing instruction signal, the payout control circuit 400 controls the game ball dispensing operation of the game ball dispensing device 440 to dispense a predetermined number of game balls. The CR unit 500 transmits a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the redeemable medium to the frequency display device 7c via the connection board e6 when a prepaid card is inserted and when the record of the remaining frequency of the redeemable medium on the prepaid card is updated. Upon receiving the frequency signal, the frequency display device 7c displays the remaining frequency of the redeemable medium indicated by this frequency signal. When the return button 7b is pressed, it transmits a return operation signal to the CR unit 500 via the connecting board e6. Upon receiving the return operation signal, the CR unit 500 returns (discards) the prepaid card with remaining credit on the valuable medium.

[0061] (Regarding various lotteries) Next, we will explain the various lotteries performed in Pachinko Machine 1. In pachinko machine 1, a regular symbol lottery is performed when a game ball passes through the starting gate 41. In this embodiment, the results of the regular symbol lottery are defined as "regular symbol win" and "loser". Then, if the regular symbol lottery results in a "regular symbol win," the regular symbol win game state is activated. In the regular symbol win game state, the regular electric mechanism 52a is displaced (opened) from a closed state to an open state, allowing game balls to enter the second start opening 52.

[0062] If a "regular symbol win" is achieved (winning the regular symbol lottery), the regular symbol display device is controlled to stop and display the regular symbols as "regular symbol win symbols". On the other hand, if the regular symbol lottery is unsuccessful, the regular symbol display device is controlled to stop and display the regular symbol as a "losing symbol". In Pachinko Machine 1, it is possible to implement a time-saving control as an auxiliary control that is advantageous to the player. During the execution of the time-saving control, the time for displaying the special symbols' variations (hereinafter referred to as "variation time") is shortened compared to when the time-saving control is stopped. In this embodiment, during the execution of the time-saving control, the probability of winning the regular symbol lottery is improved, and the time for displaying the regular symbols' variations is shortened compared to when the time-saving control is stopped. In addition, during the execution of the time-saving control, compared to when the time-saving control is stopped, the number of times the regular electric mechanism 52a opens is increased, and the opening time of the regular electric mechanism 52a is extended. If a "regular win" is achieved, the number of times the regular electric mechanism 52a opens is set to 1 or 3, and the opening time of the regular electric mechanism 52a for each time is set to 0.5 seconds or 2.0 seconds. In this case, while the time-saving control is in operation, the number of times the regular electric mechanism 52a opens is set to 3, and the opening time of the regular electric mechanism 52a for each time is set to 2.0 seconds. On the other hand, while the time-saving control is stopped, the number of times the regular electric mechanism 52a opens is set to 1, and the opening time of the regular electric mechanism 52a for each time is set to 0.5 seconds.

[0063] In addition, in pachinko machine 1, the entry of a game ball into the first starting port 51 triggers the first special symbol lottery, and the entry of a game ball into the second starting port 52 triggers the second special symbol lottery. In this embodiment, the results of the first special symbol lottery are set to "minor win" and "loss". Also, the results of the second special symbol lottery are set to "minor win" and "loss". In particular, the probability of winning the second special symbol lottery (in this embodiment, the probability of winning a "minor prize") is higher than the probability of winning the first special symbol lottery. Furthermore, the probability of winning each special symbol lottery is set according to a specified value. If a "minor win" is achieved through the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, a minor win game state is activated. In the minor win game state, a minor win game is performed in which the first special electric mechanism 53a is displaced from a closed state to an open state, making it possible for game balls to enter the first large prize entry opening 53. Furthermore, if a game ball that has entered the first large prize slot 53 is detected to have passed through the V area during the execution of a minor win game, a major win game state is triggered in accordance with the end of the minor win game state. On the other hand, if a game ball that has entered the first large prize slot 53 is not detected to have passed through the V area during the execution of a minor win game, a major win game state is not triggered. During a jackpot game, a round of play is executed in which the second special electric mechanism 54a is displaced from a closed state to an open state, allowing game balls to enter the second large prize entry point 54.

[0064] If a "minor win" is achieved through the first or second special symbol lottery, a winning type is selected. In this embodiment, the winning types are defined as "minor win 1" and "minor win 2". If a "minor win" is achieved through the first special symbol lottery, one of the winning types, "minor win 1" or "minor win 2", is selected. If a "minor win" is achieved through the second special symbol lottery, "minor win 2" is selected. Here, "Minor Win 2" is a more advantageous type of win compared to "Minor Win 1". "Advantage" refers to the degree to which it is advantageous for the player. Furthermore, when a "Minor Win" is won through the second special symbol lottery, the probability of "Minor Win 2" being selected is higher compared to when a "Minor Win" is won through the first special symbol lottery.

[0065] If a "minor win 1" is achieved, the stop symbol (display mode) corresponding to the "minor win 1 symbol" will be displayed in either the Special Feature 1 display device or the Special Feature 2 display device. Additionally, the stop symbol (display mode) corresponding to the "minor win performance symbol" will be displayed in the performance symbol display areas a1 to a4. Here, the "minor win symbol" is, for example, a first-prize symbol z1 that stops and is displayed at the lottery result display position in the three first-prize symbol display areas a1 to a3, which are all "number symbols" that show the same number, such as "7,7,7", and a second-prize symbol z2 that stops and is displayed in the second-prize symbol display area a4, which shows a predetermined color. If a "minor win 2" is achieved, the stop symbols (display mode) corresponding to the "minor win 2 symbols" will be displayed in either the Special Feature 1 display device or the Special Feature 2 display device. Also, similar to "minor win 1," the stop symbols (display mode) corresponding to the "minor win performance symbols" will be displayed in the performance symbol display areas a1 to a4. On the other hand, if the special symbol lottery is unsuccessful (i.e., a "miss"), the stop symbol (display mode) corresponding to the "miss" symbol will be displayed in the Special Symbol 1 display device or the Special Symbol 2 display device. In addition, the stop symbol (display mode) corresponding to the "miss" performance symbol will be displayed in the performance symbol display areas a1 to a4. Here, a "losing symbol" is defined as a first symbol z1 that is stopped and displayed in one of the three first symbol display areas a1 to a3, where the number shown by the "number symbol" stopped and displayed in at least one area is a different combination from the number shown by the "number symbol" stopped and displayed in the other areas, and the second symbol z2 that is stopped and displayed in the second symbol display area a4 shows a predetermined color.

[0066] During the period when a minor win is occurring, a predetermined number of minor win games (in this embodiment, 1 time) are performed. Each minor win game ends when one of the following conditions is met: (1) a predetermined maximum opening time (5.0 [s] in this embodiment) has elapsed since the first special electric mechanism 53a was opened, or (2) the number of game balls that entered the first large prize pocket 53 during the execution of the minor win game has reached a predetermined upper limit (1 [ball] in this embodiment). During a jackpot game state, a predetermined number of rounds of gameplay (in this embodiment, 9 rounds) are performed. Each round of gameplay ends when one of the following conditions is met: (1) a predetermined maximum opening time (29.0 [s] in this embodiment) has elapsed since the second special electric mechanism 54a was opened, or (2) the number of game balls that entered the second large prize pocket 54 during the execution of the round of gameplay has reached a predetermined upper limit (10 [balls] in this embodiment).

[0067] If you win "Minor Win 2," 4 rounds of time-saving features will be set at the end of the big win game state. As a result, time-saving control will be executed after the big win game state ends. The time-saving control is initiated in response to the end of a jackpot game state and terminates in response to the fulfillment of one of the following conditions: (1) a jackpot game state occurs, or (2) the notification display (variation display and stop display) of special symbols for the number of time-saving rounds (4 rounds in this embodiment) is performed. On the other hand, if you win "Minor Win 1," the number of time-saving rounds will be set to 0 at the end of the big win game state. As a result, time-saving control will not be executed after the end of the big win game state.

[0068] As a result, in pachinko machine 1, when the time-saving control is stopped, it becomes easier to enter the game ball into the first start port 51 compared to entering the game ball into the second start port 52. As a result, the player aims to enter the game ball into the first start port 51 and shoots the game ball into the left game area RL. Furthermore, if a "minor win" is achieved through the first special symbol lottery, a minor win game state is activated. During the minor win game state, the first special electric mechanism 53a is displaced to an open state, allowing game balls to enter the first large prize opening 53. As a result, the player shoots game balls towards the right-side game area RR, aiming to get the game balls into the first large prize opening 53 (passing through the V area). Furthermore, if the passage of a game ball through the V area is detected while the minor win game state is occurring, the big win game state is triggered in accordance with the end of the minor win game state. During the big win game state, the second special electric mechanism 54a is displaced to an open state, allowing game balls to enter the second large prize opening 54. As a result, the player shoots game balls towards the right-side game area RR, aiming to get the game balls into the second large prize opening 54. In particular, if a "minor win 2" is achieved, a time-saving control is executed after the big win game state ends. During the execution of the time-saving control, it becomes easier for game balls to enter the second start opening 52 compared to entering the first start opening 51. As a result, the player shoots game balls into the right-side game area RR, aiming for the game balls to enter the second start opening 52 (passing through the start gate 41 and entering the operation opening 56). On the other hand, if a "minor win 1" is achieved, the time-saving control is not executed after the big win game state ends. As a result, the player once again aims to get the game ball into the first start opening 51 and shoots the game ball towards the left game area RL.

[0069] (Regarding control commands) Next, we will explain the control commands transmitted from the main control circuit 200 to the performance control circuit 300, and the control commands transmitted and received between the main control circuit 200 and the payout control circuit 400. The main control circuit 200 and the effects control circuit 300 are connected to each other via a serial communication harness. Communication between the main control circuit 200 and the effects control circuit 300 is unidirectional, from the main control circuit 200 to the effects control circuit 300; no communication occurs from the effects control circuit 300 to the main control circuit 200. Each control command transmitted from the main control circuit 200 to the performance control circuit 300 consists of a 1-byte upper-order data indicating the type of control command and a 1-byte lower-order data indicating the content of the control command. The main control circuit 200 then transmits a control command consisting of higher-level data and lower-level data to the performance control circuit 300 via serial communication. When the performance control circuit 300 receives a control command from the main control circuit 200, a serial communication reception interrupt occurs, and this interrupt processing stores the control command data in a predetermined area of ​​RAM.

[0070] In pachinko machine 1, the following control commands are set to be sent from the main control circuit 200 to the performance control circuit 300: a symbol type specification command, a variation mode specification command, a variation pattern specification command, a stop specification command, a game state specification command, a time reduction count specification command, a winning specification command, a reserved number specification command, an opening specification command, a round start specification command, a round end specification command, an ending specification command, a V winning specification command, a V non-winning specification command, a first pre-read specification command, a second pre-read specification command, a third pre-read specification command, a demo specification command, and so on. The symbol type specification command is a command that specifies the type of stopping symbol ("losing symbol", "minor win 1 symbol", or "minor win 2 symbol"). The symbol type specification command is sent at the start of the special symbol variation display. In this embodiment, the symbol type specification command is set to correspond to the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery, respectively.

[0071] The variable mode specification command is used to specify the type of variable mode (variable mode number). By specifying the variable mode number, the variable mode specification command specifies the variable time associated with that variable mode number. The variable mode specification command specifies the variable time (the manner of the first half of the variable performance) of the variable display (variable performance) of special symbols. In this embodiment, there are m (multiple) types of variation modes, each with a different variation time associated with it. The variation mode specification command then specifies one of the m types of variation modes (variation mode number) ("variation mode m"). The variation pattern specification command is used to specify the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number). By specifying the variation pattern number, the variation pattern specification command specifies the variation time associated with that variation pattern number. The variation pattern specification command specifies the variation time (the manner of the latter half of the variation performance) of the variation display (variation performance) of special symbols. In this embodiment, n (or more) types of variation patterns are set, each with a different variation time associated with it. The variation pattern specification command then specifies one of the n types of variation patterns (variation pattern numbers) ("variation pattern n"). The variable mode specification command and the variable pattern specification command are sent when the variable display of the special symbols begins.

[0072] The stop command is used to specify the stopping display of special symbols (effect symbols z1, z2). The stop command is sent when the stopping display of the special symbols begins. The game state specification command is used to specify the execution status of time-saving control (running or stopped), etc. The game state specification command is sent when the special game phase is updated, etc. The command to specify the number of time-saving attempts is used to specify the remaining number of time-saving attempts (the value of the time-saving counter). This command is sent when the value of the time-saving counter is updated. The prize-winning designation command is a command that designates the entry of a game ball into each entry slot (to win a prize). In this embodiment, the prize-winning designation command designates the entry of a game ball into the first starting slot 51, the entry of a game ball into the second starting slot 52, the entry of a game ball into the first major prize slot 53, the entry of a game ball into the second major prize slot 54, the entry of a game ball into the left other prize slots 55a, 55b, 55c, etc. The prize-winning designation command is transmitted when the entry of a game ball into each entry slot is detected.

[0073] The command to specify the number of reserved items is a command to specify the number of reserved items. In this embodiment, the command to specify the number of reserved items (number of reserved items in Special Figure 1 or number of reserved items in Special Figure 2) has increased by "1", the number of reserved items has decreased by "1", the number of reserved items, etc. Here, "Number of Special Symbol 1 Reserved" refers to the number of times the notification display (variation display and stop display) for the first special symbol is reserved on the Special Symbol 1 display device. Also, "Number of Special Symbol 2 Reserved" refers to the number of times the notification display (variation display and stop display) for the second special symbol is reserved on the Special Symbol 2 display device. The command to specify the number of reserved symbols is sent when the power is turned on, when the startup information is stored, when the display of special symbols changes, etc. In this embodiment, the command to specify the number of reserved symbols is set to correspond to the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery, respectively.

[0074] The opening command is a command that specifies the start of the opening period. The opening command specifies the start of either a minor win game state or a major win game state. The opening command is sent at the start of the opening period (at the start of either a minor win game state or a major win game state). The round start command is used to specify the start of a round (either a small win game or a round game). Specifically, the round start command specifies the start of one of the rounds from the 1st to the 10th round. In this embodiment, the minor win game played during a minor win state is considered the first round. Furthermore, the first to ninth rounds of the game played during a major win state are considered the second to tenth rounds. Thus, a total of 10 rounds are played throughout the minor win and major win states. The round start command is sent at the start of each round. The round end command is used to specify the end of a round. The round end command is sent at the end of each round. The ending command is used to specify the start of the ending period. The ending command specifies the end of a minor win state (no passage of the game ball through the V area was detected) or the end of a major win state. The ending command is sent at the start of the ending period. The V-entry designation command is used to specify that a game ball has passed through the V-zone (a V-entry). The V-entry designation command is sent when it is detected that a game ball has passed through the V-zone. The "V-Not-Winning" command indicates that no ball passing through the V-zone (V-winning) was detected. This command is sent at the end of a minor win game.

[0075] The first pre-read specification command is a command that specifies the type of stopping symbol ("losing symbol", "minor win 1 symbol", or "minor win 2 symbol"). In this embodiment, the first pre-read specification command is set to correspond to the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery, respectively. The second look-ahead command is used to specify the content of the variable mode. Specifically, the second look-ahead command specifies that the type of variable mode is undefined ("undefined value"), or that it specifies one of the m types of variable modes (variable mode numbers) ("variable mode m"). The second look-ahead command is sent when the startup information is stored. The third look-ahead command is a command that specifies the content of the variation pattern. Specifically, the third look-ahead command specifies that the type of variation pattern is undefined ("undefined value"), or that it specifies one of n types of variation patterns (variation pattern numbers) ("variation pattern n"). The third look-ahead command is sent when the startup information is stored. The demo command is used to specify the start of the customer waiting state. The demo command is sent when the customer waiting state begins.

[0076] The main control circuit 200 and the payout control circuit 400 are connected to each other via a serial communication harness. Communication between the main control circuit 200 and the payout control circuit 400 is bidirectional. Each control command transmitted and received between the main control circuit 200 and the payout control circuit 400 consists of one byte of data. The main control circuit 200 then sends a control command to the dispensing control circuit 400 via serial communication. When the dispensing control circuit 400 receives a control command from the main control circuit 200, a serial communication receive interrupt is generated, and this interrupt processing stores the control command data in a predetermined area of ​​RAM. The dispensing control circuit 400 also sends a control command to the main control circuit 200 via serial communication. When the main control circuit 200 receives a control command from the dispensing control circuit 400, a serial communication receive interrupt is generated, and this interrupt processing stores the control command data in a predetermined area of ​​RAM 230. In pachinko machine 1, control commands such as the prize ball count specification command are set as control commands transmitted from the main control circuit 200 to the payout control circuit 400. The prize ball specification command is a command that specifies the number of prize balls to be dispensed. In this embodiment, the prize ball specification command specifies the dispensing of n prize balls (n=1 to 15). The prize ball specification command is transmitted when the payout control circuit 400 executes the prize ball dispensing operation. Furthermore, in the pachinko machine 1, control commands are set to be transmitted from the payout control circuit 400 to the main control circuit 200, specifying the occurrence and cancellation of payout errors, full tank errors, ball jam errors, and so on. Each control command is transmitted when the occurrence or cancellation of any of the errors is detected.

[0077] (Processing executed by the main control circuit 200) Next, we will explain the processes executed by the main control circuit 200. First, let's explain the functions of the hardware configured in the main control circuit 200. When power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1, the hardware random number generation circuit 270 starts the hardware random number update process. In the hardware random number update process, each time one clock signal is input from the frequency generation circuit 260 (in this embodiment, every 0.083 [μs]), the values ​​of the first loop counter to the third loop counter are updated by "1" within a predetermined range (in this embodiment, within the range of 0 to 65535). Furthermore, in the hardware random number update process, every 32 clock cycles input from the frequency generation circuit 260 (every 2.666 [μs] in this embodiment), the value of the fourth loop counter is updated by "1" within a predetermined range (in this embodiment, within the range of 0 to 10006). Then, the hardware random number update process updates the winning random numbers for the regular symbol lottery, the first special symbol lottery, the second special symbol lottery, and the reach group random numbers, respectively. Note that the hardware random number update process is executed as a function of the hardware random number generation circuit 270 and is executed independently of the process that the CPU 210 executes based on software, which will be described later. Furthermore, when power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1, the transmission shift registers of command output ports 1 and 2 begin the control command transmission process, which sends the control commands stored in the FIFO buffer to the performance control circuit 300 or the payout control circuit 400. Note that the control command transmission process is executed as a function of command output ports 1 and 2 (hardware) and is executed independently of the process that the CPU 210 executes based on software, which will be described later.

[0078] Next, we will explain the game control process that the CPU 210 of the main control circuit 200 executes based on the program (software) stored in the ROM 220. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the CPU initialization process. When power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1, the CPU 210 starts the CPU initialization process shown in Figure 5. The CPU initialization process is based on a program that controls the progress of the game. In other words, the CPU initialization process is based on a program stored in the usage area m1 (program area) of the ROM 220. Once the CPU initialization process begins, the system first proceeds to step S1-1. In step S1-1, the initial setup process is performed, and then the process moves to step S1-2. In the initial setup process, the boot program is read from ROM220, and the necessary settings for executing various processes are made. In step S1-2, the wait processing time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-3. In the wait processing time setting process, a predetermined wait processing time is set in the timer counter. Then, the timer counter starts measuring the set wait processing time. The RAM clear signal is also read. Here, the pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a RAM clear switch (not shown). When the power is turned on while the RAM clear switch is pressed, a RAM clear signal is input to input port 240 (input port 1). The RAM clear signal reading process reads the value ("1" or "0") set in the receiving memory area corresponding to the RAM clear signal from input port 240.

[0079] In step S1-3, it is determined whether the wait processing time set in step S1-2 has elapsed. If it is determined that the wait processing time has elapsed (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1-4. If it is determined that the wait processing time has not elapsed (No), the process in step S1-3 is repeated. In step S1-4, the RAM access permission process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-5. The RAM access permission process executes the necessary steps to grant access to the work area of ​​RAM230. Specifically, in the RAM access permission process, a value corresponding to the access permission is stored as a RAM protect value in a designated area of ​​RAM230. This allows the CPU210 to access RAM230. In step S1-5, it is determined whether the backup enabled flag area of ​​RAM230 is set to "1". If it is determined that the backup enabled flag area is set to "1" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1-6. If it is determined that the backup enabled flag area is set to "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S1-17.

[0080] In step S1-6, the used area checksum calculation process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S1-7. In the used area checksum calculation process, the checksum is calculated based on the information stored in the used area M1 (F000H~F1FFH) of RAM230 from the backup information. In step S1-7, the unused area checksum calculation process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S1-8. In the unused area checksum calculation process, the checksum is calculated based on the information stored in the unused area M2 (F210H~F228H) of RAM230 from the backup information. In step S1-8, it is determined whether the checksum calculated in steps S1-6 and S1-7 is valid or not. If the checksum is determined to be valid (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1-9. If the checksum is determined to be invalid (No), the process proceeds to step S1-17. Here, if both conditions are met—that "the checksum value of the used area M1 calculated in step S1-6 matches the checksum value of the used area M1 stored in the checksum buffer area" and "the checksum value of the unused area M2 calculated in step S1-7 matches the checksum value of the unused area M2 stored in the checksum buffer area"—then the checksum is determined to be normal. On the other hand, if at least one of the following conditions is not met, the checksum is determined to be invalid: "The checksum value of the used area M1 calculated in step S1-6 matches the checksum value of the used area M1 stored in the checksum buffer area" and "The checksum value of the unused area M2 calculated in step S1-7 matches the checksum value of the unused area M2 stored in the checksum buffer area."

[0081] In step S1-9, based on the value read in step S1-2 (the value set in the receiving memory area corresponding to the RAM clear signal), it is determined whether or not a RAM clear signal has been input. If it is determined that no RAM clear signal has been input (No), the process proceeds to step S1-10. If it is determined that a RAM clear signal has been input (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1-18. In step S1-10, the backup enable flag deactivation process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-11. In the backup enable flag deactivation process, the backup enable flag area of ​​RAM230 is set to "0". In step S1-11, the power-up initialization process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-12. In the power-up initialization process, the data in RAM230 that should be initialized (cleared) when power is restored (to maintain the data from before the power was cut off) is initialized. In step S1-12, the power restoration subcommand transmission process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-13. In the power restoration subcommand transmission process, a subcommand (a control command sent from the main control circuit 200 to the performance control circuit 300) specifying that power has been restored from a power outage is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM 230. In addition, a subcommand specifying a value set in the setting information storage area is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM 230. In step S1-13, the process of sending a power-up-and-recovery payout command is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-14. In the power-up-and-recovery-and-recovery command transmission process, a payout command (a control command sent from the main control circuit 200 to the payout control circuit 400) specifying that power has been restored from a power outage is stored in the payout command output request buffer of RAM 230.

[0082] In step S1-14, the process of sending subcommands for restoring the performance is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-15. In the process of sending subcommands for restoring the performance, subcommands for restoring the performance (power restoration phase specification command, game state specification command, power restoration specification command, etc.) are stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. Here, the "Power Restoration Phase Specification Command" is a control command that specifies the special game phase in which the effects are restored. In the process of sending a subcommand for restoring the performance, the current special game phase is first checked based on the value of the special game phase flag area set in a predetermined area of ​​RAM230. Then, a power-up phase specification command that specifies the confirmed special game phase is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. Furthermore, the value of the time-saving control flag area in RAM230 is checked, and a game state specification command that specifies information corresponding to this check result is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. In step S1-15, the interrupt setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-16. In the interrupt initial setting process, the peripheral device, CTC (counter / timer circuit), is initialized. Specifically, the CPU210 sets the interrupt vector register and also sets the interrupt count value (4.0 [ms] in this embodiment) to the CTC.

[0083] In step S1-16, the process to allow the setting value to be changed is executed, and the process proceeds to the main loop (step S2-1). The setting value change permission process first determines whether the setting value change permission conditions are met. If it is determined that the setting value change permission conditions are met, the setting value change permission flag area of ​​RAM230 is set to "1". On the other hand, if it is determined that the setting value change permission conditions are not met, the setting value change permission flag area of ​​RAM230 is set to "0". In this embodiment, the setting value change condition is determined to be met when both conditions are met: "a detection signal is input from the key rotation detection switch 111" and "the inner frame unit 3 is open (or the front frame unit 4 is open)." On the other hand, if at least one of the following conditions is not met—"a detection signal is input from the key rotation detection switch 111" and "the inner frame unit 3 is open (or the front frame unit 4 is open)"—it is determined that the setting value change condition is not met. Furthermore, the system may be configured such that it is determined that the setting value change condition is met when both conditions "a detection signal is input from the key rotation detection switch 111" and "door open information (external signal) is being output" are met, and that the setting value change condition is not met when at least one of the conditions "a detection signal is input from the key rotation detection switch 111" and "door open information (external signal) is being output" is not met.

[0084] In step S1-17, the unused area initialization process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-18. In the unused area initialization process, the unused area M2 of RAM230 is initialized. Specifically, the unused area initialization process clears (initializes) the information stored in the unused area M2. As a result, the work area and stack area of ​​the unused area M2 are all initialized, and any valid backup information stored there is erased. In step S1-18, the used memory area initialization process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-19. In the used memory area initialization process, the used memory area M1 of RAM230 is initialized. Specifically, the used area initialization process clears (initializes) the information stored in used area M1. As a result, the work area and stack area of ​​used area M1 are completely initialized, and any valid backup information that was stored there is erased. In other words, predetermined initial values ​​are set for the values ​​of various flag areas (time-saving control flag area, special game phase flag area, normal game phase flag area, etc.). Also, predetermined initial values ​​(in this embodiment, "0") are set for the values ​​of various counter areas (time-saving counter area, post-jackpot spin count counter area, etc.). Furthermore, a predetermined initial value (in this embodiment, "3") is set in the setting information storage area. In this embodiment, if the checksum is not valid, the unused area M2 is initialized, and then the used area M1 is initialized. On the other hand, if the checksum is valid, the used area M1 is initialized only when the RAM clear signal is input. As a result, as long as the checksum is correct, the unused area M2 will not be initialized even if a RAM clear signal is input. Therefore, even if the RAM clear switch is operated, it is possible to maintain information regarding the base ratio (information stored in the unused area M2).

[0085] In step S1-19, the RAM clear subcommand transmission process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-20. In the RAM clear subcommand transmission process, a subcommand specifying that a RAM clear has been performed is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. In addition, a subcommand specifying the value set in the setting information storage area (setting value = "3") is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. In step S1-20, the RAM clear payout command transmission process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-14. In the RAM clear payout command transmission process, a payout command indicating that a RAM clear has been performed is stored in the payout command output request buffer of RAM230.

[0086] Next, we will explain the main loop processing executed by CPU210. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the main loop processing. After the CPU initialization process (step S1-16) shown in Figure 5 is completed, the CPU 210 starts the main loop process shown in Figure 6. The main loop process is based on a program that controls the progress of the game. In other words, the main loop process is based on the program stored in the usage area m1 (program area) of the ROM 220.

[0087] When the main loop processing starts, the program first proceeds to step S2-1. In step S2-1, the interrupt disable process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S2-2. The interrupt disable process sets an interrupt disable state, which prevents interrupts from other processes. As a result, during the period in which the interrupt disable state is set, the execution of processes such as the power outage save process and timer interrupt process, which will be described later, is prohibited. In step S2-2, the initial random number update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S2-3. In the initial random number update process, the value of the loop counter used to generate the initial random number is updated. Here, "initial random number" refers to a random number used to determine the initial and final values ​​of software random numbers (such as winning symbol random numbers, reach mode random numbers, and variation pattern random numbers) that are generated within the program. In other words, the value of the loop counter that generates software random numbers is updated within a predetermined range from an initial value to an end value. The initial and end values ​​of the loop counter that generates software random numbers are changed each time the loop counter value reaches the end value. At this time, the initial and end values ​​of the loop counter are determined based on the initial random number.

[0088] In step S2-3, the main command analysis process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S2-4. In the main command analysis process, the main command received from the dispensing control circuit 400 (a control command sent from the dispensing control circuit 400 to the main control circuit 200) is analyzed, and processing is executed according to the analysis results. In step S2-4, the subcommand transmission process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S2-5. In the subcommand transmission process, the subcommand stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230 is output to the transmission data register of output port 250 (command output port 1). As a result, the subcommands entered into the transmission data register are stored in the FIFO buffer. Then, the subcommands stored in the FIFO buffer are transmitted to the performance control circuit 300 in a predetermined order by the transmission shift register. In step S2-5, the interrupt enable process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S2-6. The interrupt enable process releases the interrupt disable state. As a result, the period from the execution of the interrupt enable process in step S2-5 to the execution of the interrupt disable process in step S2-1 becomes an interrupt enable period during which the execution of power outage save process, timer interrupt process, etc., is permitted. In step S2-6, the other random number update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S2-1. In the other random number update process, the software random numbers excluding the winning symbol random numbers (such as reach mode random numbers and variation pattern random numbers) are updated.

[0089] Next, we will explain the power-off backup process performed by CPU210. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the evacuation process when the power is cut off. A power supply circuit 600 is connected to a power supply interruption detection circuit (not shown). The power supply interruption detection circuit monitors the power supply voltage supplied by the power supply circuit 600 and outputs a power supply interruption warning signal to the main control circuit 200 when the power supply voltage falls below a predetermined reference value. When the CPU 210 receives a power cut-off notification signal, it starts the power cut-off save process shown in Figure 7 during the interrupt-enabled period of the main loop processing. The power cut-off save process is based on a program for controlling the progress of the game. In other words, the power cut-off save process is based on a program stored in the usage area m1 (program area) of the ROM 220. When the power outage evacuation process is initiated, the process first proceeds to step S3-1. In step S3-1, the register save process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-2. In the register save process, the values ​​of the registers used during the execution of the main loop process are saved to the save area of ​​RAM230. In step S3-2, the power cut-off warning signal reading process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-3. In the power cut-off warning signal reading process, the power cut-off warning signal from the power cut-off detection circuit is read. Specifically, the power cut-off warning signal reading process reads the value ("1" or "0") set in the receiving memory area corresponding to the power cut-off warning signal of input port 240. In step S3-3, based on the value read in step S3-2 (the value set in the receiving memory area corresponding to the power cut-off warning signal), it is determined (bit check) whether or not a power cut-off warning signal has been input from the power cut-off detection circuit. If it is determined that a power cut-off warning signal has been input (Yes), the process proceeds to step S3-4. If it is determined that a power cut-off warning signal has not been input (No), the process proceeds to step S3-14.

[0090] In step S3-4, the output port shutdown process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-5. The output port shutdown process stops the output of control signals and control commands from output port 250 (output ports 0 to 4). It also stops the input of detection signals to input port 240 (input ports 0 to 3). In particular, during the output port shutdown process, the values ​​of all bits contained in the port registers of each output port 0, 1, and 4 are initialized. This stops the output of each data signal ("SEGDATA0" to "SEGDATA7") used to control the illumination of the main display unit 60. In addition, the output of each common signal ("COM0" to "COM3") used to control the illumination of the main display unit 60 and the performance display device 61 is stopped. Furthermore, the output of each data signal ("7SEGDATA0" to "7SEGDATA7") used to control the illumination of the performance display device 61 is stopped.

[0091] In step S3-5, the used area checksum saving process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-6. In the used area checksum saving process, a checksum is calculated based on the information stored in the used area M1 (F000H~F1FFH) of RAM230. The calculated checksum value is then saved in the checksum buffer area. In step S3-6, the process of saving the checksum of the unused area is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-7. In the process of saving the checksum of the unused area, a checksum is calculated based on the information stored in the unused area M2 (F210H~F228H) of RAM230. The calculated checksum value is then saved in the checksum buffer area. In step S3-7, the backup enable flag setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-8. In the backup enable flag setting process, the backup enable flag area of ​​RAM230 is set to "1". In step S3-8, the RAM access prohibition process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-9. The RAM access prohibition process executes a process to prohibit access to the work area of ​​RAM230. Specifically, in the RAM access prohibition process, a value corresponding to the access prohibition is stored as a RAM protect value in a predetermined area of ​​RAM230. As a result, CPU210 is prohibited from accessing the work area of ​​RAM230 (including the restricted area and the stack area).

[0092] In step S3-9, the loop counter setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-10. In the loop counter setting process, a predetermined number of power cut-off warning signal reads is set as the value of the loop counter for recovery determination. In step S3-10, the power cut-off warning signal reading process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-11. In the power cut-off warning signal reading process, the power cut-off warning signal from the power cut-off detection circuit is read. Specifically, the power cut-off warning signal reading process reads the value ("1" or "0") set in the receiving memory area corresponding to the power cut-off warning signal of input port 240. In step S3-11, based on the value read in step S3-10 (the value set in the receiving memory area corresponding to the power cut-off warning signal), it is determined whether or not a power cut-off warning signal has been input from the power cut-off detection circuit. If it is determined that no power cut-off warning signal has been input (No), the process proceeds to step S3-12. If it is determined that a power cut-off warning signal has been input (Yes), the process proceeds to step S3-9. In step S3-12, the loop counter update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-13. In the loop counter update process, "1" is subtracted from the value of the loop counter used for recovery determination. In step S3-13, it is determined whether the value of the recovery determination loop counter is "0". If it is determined that the value of the recovery determination loop counter is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to the CPU initialization process (step S1-1). If it is determined that the value of the recovery determination loop counter is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S3-10. In step S3-14, the register restore process is executed, ending the series of processes and returning to the original process. The register restore process restores the values ​​of the registers that were saved in step S3-1. After the register restore process is completed, the program returns to the main loop process (the program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[0093] Next, we will explain the timer interrupt handling performed by CPU210. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt processing. The frequency generation circuit 260 generates an interrupt request signal at predetermined interrupt intervals (4.0 [ms] in this embodiment). In response to the occurrence of an interrupt request signal, the CPU 210 starts the timer interrupt processing shown in Figure 8 during the interrupt enable period of the main loop processing. The main loop processing is based on a program for controlling the progress of the game. In other words, the main loop processing is based on a program stored in the usage area m1 (program area) of the ROM 220. When timer interrupt processing begins, the process first proceeds to step S4-1. In step S4-1, the register save process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-2. In the register save process, the values ​​of all registers used during the execution of the main loop process are saved to the save area of ​​RAM230. In step S4-2, the interrupt enable process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-3. The interrupt enable process enables the interrupt. In step S4-3, the setting value management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-4. The setting value management process will be described later.

[0094] In step S4-4, dynamic port output processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S4-5. In dynamic port output processing, control signals are output to each LED that makes up the main display unit 60 and the performance display device 61. Specifically, in dynamic port output processing, the first step is to initialize the values ​​of all bits contained in the port register of output port 0. This stops the output of each data signal ("SEGDATA0" to "SEGDATA7") (making them low level). Next, the values ​​of all bits in the port register of output port 4 are initialized. This stops the output of each data signal ("7SEGDATA0" to "7SEGDATA7") (making them low level). Next, the common signal control data set in the common signal control data setting area included in the dynamic port output request buffer of RAM230 is updated. This switches the common signal to be output (the common signal to be set to high level) each time the dynamic port output process is executed. In this embodiment, the main display unit 60 and the performance display device 61 are controlled by a common common signal. Next, the output of each common signal ("COM0" to "COM3") via output port 1 is controlled according to the common signal control data set in the common signal control data setting area. Next, the output of each data signal ("SEGDATA0" to "SEGDATA7") via output port 0 is controlled according to the main display data signal control data set in the main display data signal control data setting area contained in the dynamic port output request buffer of RAM230. Next, the output of each data signal ("7SEGDATA0" to "7SEGDATA7") by output port 4 is controlled according to the performance display device data signal control data set in the performance display device data signal control data setting area included in the dynamic port output request buffer of RAM230.

[0095] In step S4-5, port input processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S4-6. During port input processing, the latest switch status is accurately obtained. Specifically, in the port input processing, it is determined whether an ON state has occurred for each detection signal input to input port 240 (input port 0 to input port 3). At this time, it is determined whether an ON state has occurred for the detection signal based on the information set in the receiving memory area corresponding to each detection signal (each detection switch / detection sensor). If it is determined that an ON state has occurred for each detection signal, information indicating that an ON state has occurred (detected) for that detection signal is stored in a predetermined area of ​​RAM 230. Here, "on state" refers to the state in which the detection signal changes from a state in which it is not input (low level) to a state in which it is input (high level).

[0096] In step S4-6, the timer update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-7. The timer update process updates various timers. Specifically, the timer update process updates the values ​​of various timer counters (special game timer, normal game timer, external information timer, etc.). In step S4-7, the initial random number update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-8. The initial random number update process in step S4-7 is the same as the initial random number update process in step S2-2. Specifically, the initial random number update process updates the value of the loop counter used to generate the initial random number. In step S4-8, the winning symbol random number update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-9. In the winning symbol random number update process, the value of the loop counter used to generate the winning symbol random number from the software random numbers is updated. In step S4-9, the switch management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-10. The switch management process performs actions (such as obtaining various random numbers) according to the status of each switch 101, 102, 104a, 104b, and 105a (whether or not an ON state is detected). The switch management process will be described later.

[0097] In step S4-10, the addition calculation process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S4-11. In the addition calculation process, the values ​​to be added to the out ball counter (described later) and the payout counter (described later) are calculated and set. In other words, the calculation of the added number first determines whether or not the game is in a predetermined state. If it is determined that the game is not in a predetermined state, the calculation of the added number in a non-predetermined game state, as described later, is executed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the game is in a predetermined state, the calculation of the added number in a predetermined game state, as described later, is executed. In this embodiment, if the time-saving control is stopped, it is determined that the game is in a predetermined state. On the other hand, if the time-saving control is in progress, it is determined that the game is not in a predetermined state.

[0098] In the calculation process for the number of added balls during non-predetermined game states, first, the value stored in the out-ball count addition value storage area is cleared, and then the value stored in the payout count addition value storage area is cleared. Next, in the out count addition value storage area of ​​RAM230, the value to be added to the out count counter is set to "0". Next, in the payout count increment value storage area of ​​RAM230, the value to be added to the payout counter is set to "0".

[0099] On the other hand, in the calculation process for the number of added balls during a predetermined game state, first, the value stored in the memory area for the number of balls out is cleared, and the value stored in the memory area for the number of balls paid out is also cleared. In addition, the value of the counter for calculating the number of balls paid out is set to "0". Next, it is determined whether or not the ON state of the out switch 109 has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the out switch 109 has been detected, the value to be added to the out ball count counter in the out ball count addition value storage area of ​​the RAM 230 is set to "1". On the other hand, if it is determined that the ON state of the out switch 109 has not been detected, the value to be added to the out ball count counter in the out ball count addition value storage area of ​​the RAM 230 is set to "0". Next, it is determined whether or not the left prize slot switch 106 is in the ON state. If it is determined that the left prize slot switch 106 is in the ON state, "10", which is the number of prize balls paid out according to the number of game balls that enter the left other prize slots 55a to 55c, is added to the value of the payout calculation counter. On the other hand, if it is determined that the left prize slot switch 106 is not in the ON state, no addition is made to the value of the payout calculation counter. Next, it is determined whether or not the ON state of the Special Feature 1 Start Port Switch 101 has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the Special Feature 1 Start Port Switch 101 has been detected, "3", which is the number of prize balls paid out according to the number of game balls that enter the first start port 51, is added to the value of the payout calculation counter. If it is determined that the ON state of the Special Feature 1 Start Port Switch 101 has not been detected, no addition is made to the value of the payout calculation counter. Next, it is determined whether or not the ON state of the special feature 2 start port switch 102 has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the special feature 2 start port switch 102 has been detected, "1", which is the number of prize balls that are paid out according to the number of game balls that enter the second start port 52, is added to the value of the payout calculation counter. If it is determined that the ON state of the special feature 2 start port switch 102 has not been detected, the value of the payout calculation counter is not added. Next, in the payout count addition value storage area of ​​RAM230, the value of the payout count calculation counter is set as the value to be added to the payout counter.

[0100] In step S4-11, the special game management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-12. The special game management process manages the operation of the special symbol display devices (special symbol 1 display device and special symbol 2 display device) and the operation of the special electric mechanisms 53a and 54a. The special game management process will be described later. In step S4-12, the normal game management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-13. The normal game management process manages the operation of the normal display device and the operation of the normal electric mechanism 52a. The normal game management process will be described later. In step S4-13, error management processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S4-14. In the error management processing, various errors (abnormal conditions) are identified, and settings are made according to the results of the identification.

[0101] In step S4-14, the prize slot switch processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S4-15. In the prize slot switch processing, processing (such as updating various counters) is performed according to the state of each switch 101, 102, 103a, 103b, and 106 (whether or not an ON state is detected). Specifically, in the prize entry switch processing, it is first determined whether or not the ON state of the special feature 1 start entry switch 101 has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the special feature 1 start entry switch 101 has been detected, "1" is added to the value of the prize ball control counter 4, and a prize entry designation command specifying the entry of a game ball into the first start entry 51 is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM 230. Next, it is determined whether or not the ON state of the special feature 2 start port switch 102 has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the special feature 2 start port switch 102 has been detected, "1" is added to the value of the prize ball control counter 5, and a prize ball entry designation command specifying the entry of a game ball into the second start port 52 is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM 230. Next, it is determined whether or not the ON state of the first count switch 103a has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the first count switch 103a has been detected, "1" is added to the value of the prize ball control counter 1, and a prize ball entry designation command specifying the entry of a game ball into the first large prize entry opening 53 is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of the RAM 230. Next, it is determined whether or not the ON state of the second count switch 103b has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the second count switch 103b has been detected, "1" is added to the value of the prize ball control counter 1, and a prize ball entry designation command specifying that the game ball enters the second large prize entry opening 54 is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of the RAM 230. Next, it is determined whether or not the left prize slot switch 106 is in the ON state. If it is determined that the left prize slot switch 106 is in the ON state, "1" is added to the value of the prize ball control counter 2, and a prize ball designation command specifying that the game balls should enter the other left prize slots 55a to 55c is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM 230.

[0102] In step S4-15, the payout control management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-16. In the payout control management process, a payout command is generated based on the value of the prize ball control counter set in step S4-14, and the generated payout command is sent. In this embodiment, the following prize ball control counters are set up: prize ball control counter 1, which stores the number of balls that entered the large prize slots 53 and 54; prize ball control counter 2, which stores the number of balls that entered the left other prize slots 55a to 55c; prize ball control counter 4, which stores the number of balls that entered the first starting slot 51; and prize ball control counter 5, which stores the number of balls that entered the second starting slot 52.

[0103] In the payout control management process, first, it is determined whether the value of the prize ball control counter 1 is "1" or greater. If it is determined that the value of the prize ball control counter 1 is "1" or greater, a payout command is generated that specifies the payout of a predetermined number of prize balls (15 balls in this embodiment), and the generated payout command is stored in the payout command output request buffer of RAM 230. As a result, a payout command specifying the payout of a predetermined number of prize balls is sent to the payout control circuit 400. Subsequently, when the payout control circuit 400 completes the payout of the prize balls by the game ball payout device 440, it sends a main command to the main control circuit 200 that specifies the completion of the payout. Upon receiving the main command that specifies the completion of the payout, "1" is subtracted from the value of the prize ball control counter 1. Next, it is determined whether the value of the prize ball control counter 2 is "1" or greater. If it is determined that the value of the prize ball control counter 2 is "1" or greater, a payout command is generated that specifies the payout of a predetermined number of prize balls (10 balls in this embodiment), and the generated payout command is stored in the payout command output request buffer of RAM 230. As a result, a payout command specifying the payout of a predetermined number of prize balls is sent to the payout control circuit 400. Subsequently, in response to the receipt of a main command specifying the completion of the payout, "1" is subtracted from the value of the prize ball control counter 2. Next, it is determined whether the value of the prize ball control counter 4 is "1" or greater. If it is determined that the value of the prize ball control counter 4 is "1" or greater, a payout command is generated that specifies the payout of a predetermined number of prize balls (3 balls in this embodiment), and the generated payout command is stored in the payout command output request buffer of RAM 230. As a result, a payout command specifying the payout of a predetermined number of prize balls is sent to the payout control circuit 400. Subsequently, in response to the receipt of a main command specifying the completion of the payout, "1" is deducted from the value of the prize ball control counter 4. Next, it is determined whether the value of the prize ball control counter 5 is "1" or greater. If it is determined that the value of the prize ball control counter 5 is "1" or greater, a payout command is generated that specifies the payout of a predetermined number of prize balls (in this embodiment, 1 ball), and the generated payout command is stored in the payout command output request buffer of RAM 230. As a result, a payout command specifying the payout of a predetermined number of prize balls is sent to the payout control circuit 400. Subsequently, in response to the receipt of a main command specifying the completion of the payout, "1" is subtracted from the value of the prize ball control counter 5.

[0104] In step S4-16, the launch position designation management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-17. The launch position designation management process executes the process related to designating the launch position. Specifically, in the launch position specification management process, when the state changes from specifying the launch of the game ball to the left game area RL to specifying the launch of the game ball to the right game area RR (such as at the start of a minor win game state), a subcommand specifying the launch of the game ball to the right game area RR is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM 230. As a result, the subcommand specifying the launch of the game ball to the right game area RR is sent to the performance control circuit 300.

[0105] In step S4-17, the external information management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-18. In the external information management process, the external information (external signals) to be output to the hall computer 450 (or data display device) is set. In this embodiment, the external information output from the pachinko machine 1 to external devices (electronic devices such as a hall computer 450 and a data display device) is defined to include information on the number of times symbols have been confirmed, information on the starting gate, information on big wins, security information, information on the number of payouts from the output gate, and information on setting value changes. The "symbol confirmation count information" is external information regarding the number of times the special symbol lottery (display and stop display of the special symbol) has been performed. The CPU 210 outputs an external signal corresponding to the symbol confirmation count information to the hall computer 450 (or data display device) each time the number of times the special symbol stop display has been performed reaches a predetermined number of times. The "start gate information" is external information regarding the entry of game balls into start gates 51 and 52. Whenever the CPU 210 detects that the detection signal input from start gate switches 101 and 102 is ON, it outputs an external signal corresponding to the start gate information to the hall computer 450 (or data display device). "Big win information" is external information related to the occurrence of a big win game state. The main control circuit 200 outputs an external signal corresponding to the big win information to the hall computer 450 (or data display device) each time a big win game state occurs. The "outlet payout information" is external information relating to the number of game balls discharged from the discharge path (or the number of game balls discharged from outlets 57 and 58). The CPU 210 outputs an external signal corresponding to the payout information to the hall computer 450 each time the value of the external information payout ball counter reaches a predetermined value. The "setting value change in progress" information is external information indicating that a setting value is being changed (that the conditions for allowing setting value changes are met). The CPU 210 continuously outputs an external signal corresponding to the setting value change in progress information to the hall computer 450 while the setting value change in progress flag area is set to "1".

[0106] In the external information management process, it is determined whether the value of the external information confirmation count counter has reached a predetermined value (1 in this embodiment). If it is determined that the value of the external information confirmation count counter has reached the predetermined value, the symbol confirmation count information (external signal) is stored in the port output request buffer of RAM 230. Then, the predetermined value (1 in this embodiment) is subtracted from the value of the external information confirmation count counter. As a result, the symbol confirmation count information (external signal) is output to the hall computer 450. Furthermore, the external information management process determines whether the value of the ball entry counter for the external information start slot has reached a predetermined value (1 in this embodiment). If it is determined that the value of the ball entry counter for the external information start slot has reached the predetermined value, the start slot information (external signal) is stored in the port output request buffer of RAM 230. Subsequently, the predetermined value (1 in this embodiment) is subtracted from the value of the ball entry counter for the external information start slot. As a result, the start slot information (external signal) is output to the hall computer 450. Furthermore, the external information management process determines whether the value of the external information jackpot count counter has reached a predetermined value (1 in this embodiment). If it is determined that the value of the external information jackpot count counter has reached the predetermined value, the jackpot information (external signal) is stored in the port output request buffer of RAM 230. Subsequently, the predetermined value (1 in this embodiment) is subtracted from the value of the external information jackpot count counter. As a result, the jackpot information (external signal) is output to the hall computer 450. Furthermore, the external information management process determines whether the value of the external information ball count counter has reached a predetermined value (10 balls in this embodiment). If it is determined that the value of the external information ball count counter has reached the predetermined value, the ball payout information (external signal) is stored in the port output request buffer of RAM 230. Subsequently, the predetermined value (10 balls in this embodiment) is subtracted from the value of the external information ball count counter. As a result, the ball payout information (external signal) is output to the hall computer 450. Furthermore, the external information management process determines whether "1" is set in the setting value change flag area. If it is determined that "1" is set in the setting value change flag area, the setting value change information (external signal) is stored in the port output request buffer of RAM230. As a result, the setting value change information (external signal) is output to the hall computer 450.

[0107] In step S4-18, the test signal management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-19. In the test signal management process, test information (test signals) is set. The test signal management process is based on a program that executes the testing procedures stipulated in the gaming machine regulations. In other words, the test signal management process is based on a program stored in the unused area m2 (program area) of ROM220. The test signal tube is called during the execution of timer interrupt processing. Specifically, in the test signal management process, test information (test signals) indicating the internal state (jackpot game state, time-saving control execution state, special symbol lottery probability state, etc.) is stored in the port output request buffer of RAM230. In step S4-19, the performance display device control process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-20. The performance display device control process will be described later. In step S4-20, the LED display setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-21. In the LED display setting process, control data (drive data) for controlling the lighting of a predetermined display device is set in the dynamic port output request buffer of RAM230. In step S4-21, the solenoid data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-22. In the solenoid data setting process, the control data (drive data) to be output for each solenoid 64-67 is stored (set) in the port output request buffer of RAM230.

[0108] In step S4-22, port output processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S4-23. During port output processing, various signals are output to the hall computer 450, each solenoid 64-67, etc. Specifically, in port output processing, various information (external signals, control signals, etc.) set in the port output request buffer is output to output port 250 (output port 2, output port 3). As a result, the external signals set in the port output request buffer are output to the hall computer 450. In addition, each solenoid 64-67 is driven and controlled based on the drive signals set in the port output request buffer. In step S4-23, the register restore process is executed, ending the series of processes and returning to the original process. The register restore process restores the values ​​of the registers that were saved in step S4-1. After the register restore process is completed, the program returns to the main loop process (the program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[0109] Next, we will explain the setting value management process in step S4-3. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the setting value management process. When the setting value management process is executed in step S4-3, it first proceeds to step S29-1, as shown in Figure 9. In step S29-1, it is determined whether "1" is set in the setting value change permission flag area. If it is determined that "1" is set in the setting value change permission flag area (Yes), the process proceeds to step S29-2. If it is determined that "0" is set in the setting value change permission flag area (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-4). In step S29-2, it is determined whether the conditions for allowing the setting value to be changed are met. If it is determined that the conditions for allowing the setting value to be changed are met (Yes), the process proceeds to step S29-3. If it is determined that the conditions for allowing the setting value to be changed are not met (No), the process proceeds to step S29-6. As described above, if both conditions are met, namely "a detection signal is input from the key rotation detection switch 111" and "the inner frame unit 3 is open (or the front frame unit 4 is open)", then it is determined that the setting value change condition is met. On the other hand, if at least one of the following conditions is not met—"a detection signal is input from the key rotation detection switch 111" and "the inner frame unit 3 is open (or the front frame unit 4 is open)"—it is determined that the setting value change condition is not met. Furthermore, the system may be configured such that if both conditions "a detection signal is input from the key rotation detection switch 111" and "door open information (external signal) is being output" are met, it is determined that the setting value change condition is met. If at least one of the conditions "a detection signal is input from the key rotation detection switch 111" and "door open information (external signal) is being output" is not met, it is determined that the setting value change condition is not met.

[0110] In step S29-3, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the set value selection switch 112. If it is determined that a detection signal is input from the set value selection switch 112 (Yes), the process proceeds to step S29-4. If it is determined that no detection signal is input from the set value selection switch 112 (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-4). In step S29-4, the setting value change process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S29-5. In the setting value change process, the value (setting value) set in the setting information storage area is changed. In this embodiment, each time a detection signal is input from the setting value selection switch 112, the setting value is changed in a predetermined order (for example, setting value = "1", setting value = "2", setting value = "3", setting value = "4", setting value = "5", setting value = "6", setting value = "1", setting value = "2", ...). In step S29-5, the setting value display update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-4). In the setting value display update process, the display of the setting value on the setting value display device 62 is updated. Specifically, in the setting value display update process, a subcommand specifying the value set in the setting information storage area (the changed setting value) is first stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. In the setting value display update process, the setting value display counter is then set to the same value as the value set in the setting information storage area (the changed setting value). As a result, the segment corresponding to the value of the setting value display counter among the predetermined number of segments that make up the setting value display device 62 is controlled to light up. In this embodiment, the display of the set value on the set value display device 62 is performed only during the period in which the conditions for allowing the set value change are met.

[0111] In step S29-6, the setting value change completion process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-4). In the setting value change completion process, the setting value change permission flag area is set to "0". Additionally, the setting value display counter is initialized (cleared). This causes all segments constituting the setting value display device 62 to turn off (the display of the setting value on the setting value display device 62 ends).

[0112] Next, we will explain the switch management process in step S4-9. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the switch management process. When the switch management process is executed in step S4-9, it first proceeds to step S5-1, as shown in Figure 10. In step S5-1, it is determined whether or not the ON state of gate switches 104a and 104b has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of gate switches 104a and 104b has been detected (Yes), the process proceeds to step S5-2. If it is determined that the ON state of gate switches 104a and 104b has not been detected (No), the process proceeds to step S5-3. In step S5-2, the general-purpose starting ball detection process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S5-3. The general-purpose starting ball detection process will be described later.

[0113] In step S5-3, it is determined whether or not the ON state of the start port switch 101 in Specifications Figure 1 has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the start port switch 101 in Specifications Figure 1 has been detected (Yes), the process proceeds to step S5-4. If it is determined that the ON state of the start port switch 101 in Specifications Figure 1 has not been detected (No), the process proceeds to step S5-5. In step S5-4, the starting ball detection process shown in Figure 1 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S5-5. The starting ball detection process shown in Figure 1 will be described later. In step S5-5, it is determined whether or not the ON state of the start port switch 102 in Figure 2 has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the start port switch 102 in Figure 2 has been detected (Yes), the process proceeds to step S5-6. If it is determined that the ON state of the start port switch 102 in Figure 2 has not been detected (No), the process proceeds to step S5-7. In step S5-6, the Special Feature 2 starting ball detection process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S5-7. The Special Feature 2 starting ball detection process will be described later. In step S5-7, it is determined whether or not the ON state of the V-area switch 105a has been detected. If it is determined that the ON state of the V-area switch 105a has been detected (Yes), the process proceeds to step S5-8. If it is determined that the ON state of the V-area switch 105a has not been detected (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-10).

[0114] In step S5-8, the V-pass detection process is executed, the series of processes is completed, and the process moves on to the next process (step S4-10). In the V-pass detection process, the first step is to determine whether or not the V-valid period is currently active. The "V validity period" is the period from the start of the first round (minor win game) until the validity period (interval time) for closing the big prize slot after the end of the first round has elapsed. If it is determined that the V validity period is in effect, the V winning flag area of ​​RAM230 is set to "1", and the V winning designation command is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. On the other hand, if it is determined that the validity period for V is not yet over, the process is terminated and the system proceeds to the next process (step S4-10). In this embodiment, if the value set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230 (special game phase) corresponds to the "first large prize opening open control state" or the "first large prize opening closed effective state," it is determined that the V-winning period is active. If the value corresponds to any other special game phase, it is determined that the V-winning period is not active.

[0115] Next, the process of detecting the starting ball in step S5-2 will be explained. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the process for detecting the starting ball. When the general starting ball detection process is performed in step S5-2, the process first proceeds to step S6-1, as shown in Figure 11. In step S6-1, the process of acquiring random numbers for the regular symbols is executed, and then the process moves to step S6-2. In the process of acquiring random numbers for the regular symbols, the winning random number (random value) is acquired (loaded) from the loop counter corresponding to the drawing of regular symbols. In step S6-2, it is determined whether the value of the regular display reserve counter is at the upper limit (in this embodiment, "1"). If it is determined that the value of the regular display reserve counter is not at the upper limit (No), the process proceeds to step S6-3. If it is determined that the value of the regular display reserve counter is at the upper limit (Yes), the series of processes ends and the process proceeds to the next process (step S5-3). In step S6-3, the regular drawing reserve counter update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S6-4. In the regular drawing reserve counter update process, "1" is added to the value of the regular drawing reserve counter. In step S6-4, the random number saving process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S5-3). In the random number saving process, the winning random number obtained in step S6-1 is stored as random number starting information in the random number starting information storage area of ​​RAM230.

[0116] Next, the starting ball detection process in step S5-4, as shown in Figure 1, will be explained. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the starting ball detection process in Special Figure 1. As shown in Figure 12, when the starting ball detection process is executed in step S5-4, the process first proceeds to step S7-1. In step S7-1, the special symbol identification value setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S7-2. In the special symbol identification value setting process, the special symbol identification value corresponding to the first special symbol lottery is set in the special symbol identification value setting area of ​​RAM230. In addition, "1" is added to the value of the ball entry counter for external information start slot. In step S7-2, the pending counter address setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S7-3. In the pending counter address setting process, the address of the pending counter shown in Figure 1 is set in the pending counter address setting area of ​​RAM 230. In step S7-3, the process for obtaining special symbol random numbers is executed, and the series of processes ends, moving on to the next process (step S5-5). The process for obtaining special symbol random numbers will be described later.

[0117] Next, the starting ball detection process in step S5-6, as shown in Figure 2, will be explained. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the starting ball detection process in Special Figure 2. As shown in Figure 13, when the starting ball detection process in step S5-6 is executed, the process first proceeds to step S8-1. In step S8-1, the special symbol identification value setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S8-2. In the special symbol identification value setting process, the special symbol identification value corresponding to the second special symbol lottery is set in the special symbol identification value setting area of ​​RAM230. In addition, "1" is added to the value of the ball entry counter for external information start slot. In step S8-2, the pending counter address setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S8-3. In the pending counter address setting process, the address of the pending counter shown in Figure 2 is set in the pending counter address area of ​​RAM 230. In step S8-3, the process for obtaining special symbol random numbers is executed, and the series of processes ends, moving on to the next process (step S5-7). The process for obtaining special symbol random numbers will be described later.

[0118] Next, we will explain the process of obtaining special symbol random numbers in steps S7-3 and S8-3. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the process for obtaining special symbol random numbers. When the special symbol random number acquisition process is executed in steps S7-3 and S8-3, the process first proceeds to step S9-1, as shown in Figure 14. In step S9-1, the special symbol identification value acquisition process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S9-2. In the special symbol identification value acquisition process, the special symbol identification value set in the special symbol identification value setting area of ​​RAM230 is acquired (loaded). In step S9-2, the special symbol reserve count acquisition process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S9-3. In the special symbol reserve count acquisition process, the value of the special symbol reserve count counter (special symbol 1 reserve count counter or special symbol 2 reserve count counter) identified by the address set in the reserve count counter address area (special symbol 1 reserve count counter or special symbol 2 reserve count) is acquired (loaded). In step S9-3, the special symbol random number acquisition process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S9-4. In the special symbol random number acquisition process, various random numbers (random values) such as winning random numbers, winning symbol random numbers, reach group random numbers, reach mode random numbers, and variation pattern random numbers are acquired (loaded) from the loop counter corresponding to each lottery. At this time, the corresponding loop counter is selected based on the special symbol identification value acquired in step S9-1. In step S9-4, it is determined whether the number of special symbol reserves (special symbol 1 reserves or special symbol 2 reserves) obtained in step S9-2 is at the upper limit. If it is determined that the number of special symbol reserves is not at the upper limit (No), the process proceeds to step S9-5. If it is determined that the number of special symbol reserves is at the upper limit (Yes), the series of processes ends and the process proceeds to the next process (step S5-5 or S5-7). In this embodiment, the upper limit for the number of reserved symbols in Special Feature 1 is set to "4". On the other hand, the upper limit for the number of reserved symbols in Special Feature 2 is set to "4". In step S9-5, a special figure reservation number counter update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S9-6. In the special figure reservation number counter update process, "1" is added to the value set in the special figure reservation number counter (special figure 1 reservation number counter or special figure 2 reservation number counter) specified by the address set in the reservation number counter address area.

[0119] In step S9-6, a special figure random number storage process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S9-7. In the special figure random number storage process, various random numbers obtained in step S9-3 are stored as special figure start information (special figure 1 start information or special figure 2 start information) in the special figure start information storage area (special figure 1 start information storage area or special figure 2 start information storage area) of the RAM 230. Specifically, the RAM 230 includes a variable start information storage area in which start information during the execution of the notification display of the special symbol is stored, a special figure 1 start information storage area in which special figure 1 start information for which the start determination is pending is stored, and a special figure 2 start information storage area in which special figure 2 start information for which the start determination is pending is stored. The special figure 1 start information storage area is configured to include four storage units (first storage unit to fourth storage unit) as a storage unit capable of storing the special figure 1 start information. Different priorities are defined for the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit. That is, the priorities of the respective storage units are defined such that, in order from the highest priority, they are the first storage unit, the second storage unit, the third storage unit, and the fourth storage unit (higher order → lower order). Then, the special figure 1 start information stored in the special figure 1 start information storage area is subjected to start determination in order from the special figure 1 start information stored in the storage unit with the highest priority. The special figure 2 start information storage area is configured to include four storage units (first storage unit to fourth storage unit) as a storage unit capable of storing the special figure 2 start information. Different priorities are defined for the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit. That is, the priorities of the respective storage units are defined such that, in order from the highest priority, they are the first storage unit, the second storage unit, the third storage unit, and the fourth storage unit (higher order → lower order). Then, the special figure 2 start information stored in the special figure 2 start information storage area is subjected to start determination in order from the special figure 2 start information stored in the storage unit with the highest priority. And, when the special symbol identification value acquired in step S9-1 is a value corresponding to the first special symbol lottery, the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the special drawing 1 start information storage area as special drawing 1 start information. At this time, the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the storage unit with the highest priority among the available storage units. Specifically, when the value of the current special drawing 1 hold count counter = "1", the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the first storage unit. On the other hand, when the value of the current special drawing 1 hold count counter = "2", the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the second storage unit. When the value of the current special drawing 1 hold count counter = "3", the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the third storage unit. When the value of the current special drawing 1 hold count counter = "4", the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the fourth storage unit. On the other hand, when the special symbol identification value acquired in step S9-1 is a value corresponding to the second special symbol lottery, the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the special drawing 2 start information storage area as special drawing 2 start information. At this time, the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the storage unit with the highest priority among the available storage units. Specifically, when the value of the current special drawing 2 hold count counter = "1", the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the first storage unit. On the other hand, when the value of the current special drawing 2 hold count counter = "2", the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the second storage unit. When the value of the current special drawing 2 hold count counter = "3", the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the third storage unit. When the value of the current special drawing 2 hold count counter = "4", the various random numbers acquired in step S9-3 are stored in the fourth storage unit.

[0120] In step S9-7, the process for setting the number of reserved symbols command is executed, and the process proceeds to step S9-8. In the process for setting the number of reserved symbols command, a command specifying that the number of reserved symbols (number of reserved symbols 1 or 2) has increased by "1" is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. At this time, if the special symbol identification value obtained in step S9-1 is the value corresponding to the 1st special symbol lottery, a command specifying that the number of reserved symbols 1 has increased by "1" is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. If it is the value corresponding to the 2nd special symbol lottery, a command specifying that the number of reserved symbols 2 has increased by "1" is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230.

[0121] In step S9-8, the pre-determination process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S5-5 or S5-7). In the pre-determination process, the results of various lotteries are pre-determined based on the start information (special figure 1 start information or special figure 2 start information) (hereinafter referred to as "pre-determination start information") stored in the special figure start information storage area (special figure 1 start information storage area or special figure 2 start information storage area) in step S9-6. In this embodiment, pre-determination of various lottery results is performed for all start information (start information in Figure 1 and start information in Figure 2). Furthermore, regarding the start information acquired (stored) while a jackpot game state is occurring, the system may be configured so that pre-determining of various lottery results is not performed. Also, regarding the start information for Special Feature 2 acquired (stored) while the time-saving control is stopped, the system may be configured so that pre-determining of various lottery results is not performed, and regarding the start information for Special Feature 1 acquired (stored) while the time-saving control is running, the system may be configured so that pre-determining of various lottery results is not performed.

[0122] In the pre-determination process, the pre-special design win / loss determination process is performed first. In the pre-special symbol win / loss determination process, the result of the special symbol lottery ("minor win" or "loss") is determined (pre-special symbol win / loss determination). ROM220 stores a special symbol win / loss lottery table in which the small win values ​​for special symbol lotteries are registered. In addition, it stores special symbol win / loss lottery tables corresponding to each setting value ("1" to "6"). In the pre-special symbol win / loss determination process, the value set in the setting information storage area (setting value) is checked, and the special symbol win / loss lottery table corresponding to this check result is read. Then, based on the winning random number included in the pre-determination start information and the special symbol win / loss lottery table that has been read out, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery is a "minor win" (pre-special symbol win / loss determination). Specifically, if the value of the winning random number included in the pre-determination start information matches the minor win value registered in the special symbol win / loss lottery table that has been read out, the result of the special symbol lottery will be determined to be a "minor win" (winning). On the other hand, if the value of the winning random number included in the pre-determination start information does not match the minor win value registered in the special symbol win / loss lottery table that has been read out (i.e., it matches the losing value), the result of the special symbol lottery will be determined as a "loss" (failure).

[0123] In the pre-determination process, the next step is to perform pre-special symbol stop determination. In the pre-special symbol stop determination process, the type of special symbol that stops is determined (pre-special symbol stop determination). In the pre-bonus special symbol stop symbol determination process, if the pre-bonus special symbol win / loss determination determines a "minor win" (winning), the type of minor win symbol (winning type) is determined (pre-bonus minor win symbol determination). ROM220 stores a minor win symbol lottery table in which the correspondence between the random number of winning symbols and the type of minor win symbol is registered. In addition, it stores a minor win symbol lottery table corresponding to the first special symbol lottery and a minor win symbol lottery table corresponding to the second special symbol lottery. Furthermore, the minor prize symbol lottery table corresponding to the first special symbol lottery has "minor prize symbol 1" (50%) and "minor prize symbol 2" (50%) registered as types of minor prize symbols (winning types). In the minor prize symbol lottery table corresponding to the second special symbol lottery, only "Minor Prize 2 Symbol" (100%) is registered as a type of minor prize symbol (winning type) ("Minor Prize 1 Symbol" is not registered). In the pre-special symbol stop symbol determination process, if the pre-special symbol win / loss determination determines a "minor win" (winning), the type of pre-determination start information (special symbol 1 start information or special symbol 2 start information) is checked, and the minor win symbol lottery table corresponding to this check result is read. Then, the type of minor win symbol is determined based on the winning symbol random number included in the pre-determination start information and the read minor win symbol lottery table. On the other hand, in the pre-special symbol stop symbol determination process, if the pre-special symbol win / loss determination determines it to be a "loser" (failure), the type of stop symbol is determined to be a "losing symbol".

[0124] In the pre-determination process, the first pre-reading command setting process is executed next. In the first pre-reading specification command setting process, the first pre-reading specification command, which specifies the type of stop symbol determined by the pre-special symbol stop symbol determination, is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230.

[0125] In the pre-determination process, the next step is to determine whether or not the pre-special symbol win / loss determination resulted in a "minor win" (winning). Then, if the pre-bonus special symbol win / loss determination determines that it is a "minor win" (a win), the pre-bonus special symbol variation determination process at the time of winning is executed. On the other hand, if the pre-selection special pattern selection is determined to be a "loss" (failure), the pre-selection special pattern variation determination process at the time of failure is executed.

[0126] In the pre-win special symbol variation pattern determination process, the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) is first determined (pre-win variation pattern determination). ROM220 stores a winning pattern determination table in which the correspondence between the random number for the variation pattern and the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) is registered. Furthermore, the system stores two tables for determining the winning pattern: one for determining the winning pattern while the time-saving control is in operation, and another for determining the winning pattern while the time-saving control is stopped. In this embodiment, the types of fluctuation patterns (fluctuation pattern numbers) are defined as "no-reach fluctuation" and "reach fluctuation". Furthermore, multiple variation patterns (variation pattern numbers) with different variation times are defined as variation patterns (variation pattern numbers) belonging to the "no-reach variation" category. Furthermore, multiple variation patterns (variation pattern numbers) belonging to "reach variation" are defined, each with a different variation time associated with it. In this embodiment, "reach variation 1" to "reach variation 3" are defined as variation patterns (variation pattern numbers) belonging to "reach variation," each with a different variation time associated with it. The expected value for each variation pattern is defined in the following order from highest to lowest expected value: "reach variation" and "no reach variation" (high expected value → low expected value). "Expected value" refers to the probability (degree) that a jackpot game state will occur when the type of variation pattern in question is selected. Furthermore, in the table for determining the variation pattern upon winning, only "reach variation" is registered as the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) ("no reach variation" is not registered). In the pre-win variation pattern determination process, the current execution status of the time-saving control is first checked, and the win variation pattern determination table corresponding to this check result is read. Then, based on the random number of the variation pattern included in the pre-determination start information and the reading of the variation pattern determination table at the time of winning, the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) is determined.

[0127] In the pre-win special symbol variation pattern determination process, the next step is to determine the type of variation mode (variation mode number) (pre-win variation mode determination). The ROM 220 stores a winning-time variation mode determination table in which the correspondence between reach mode random numbers and the types (variation mode numbers) of variation modes is registered. In addition, as the winning-time variation mode determination table, a winning-time variation mode determination table corresponding to each type of variation pattern is stored. In this embodiment, only "normal variation" is defined as the type (variation mode number) of the variation mode. In addition, as the variation modes (variation mode numbers) belonging to "normal variation", a plurality of variation modes (variation mode numbers) associated with different variation times are defined. In the winning-time variation mode determination table corresponding to "reach variation", only "normal variation" associated with a variation time of 0 [s] is registered. Thus, when "reach variation" is selected as the type of variation mode, "normal variation" associated with a variation time of 0 [s] is always selected. In the winning-time pre-variation mode determination, first, the result of the winning-time pre-variation pattern determination is confirmed, and the winning-time variation mode determination table corresponding to this confirmation result is read out. Then, based on the reach mode random number included in the pre-determination start information and the read winning-time variation mode determination table, the type (variation mode number) of the variation mode is determined.

[0128] In the winning-time pre-specific drawing variation mode determination process, next, the second pre-reading specified command setting process is executed. In the second pre-reading specified command setting process, a second pre-reading specified command specifying the type (variation mode number) of the variation mode determined by the winning-time pre-variation mode determination is stored in the sub-command output request buffer of the RAM 230.

[0129] In the winning-time pre-specific drawing variation mode determination process, next, the third pre-reading specified command setting process is executed. In the third pre-reading command setting process, the third pre-reading command, which specifies the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) determined by the pre-variation pattern determination at the time of winning, is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230.

[0130] On the other hand, in the pre-selection special pattern variation determination process when a selection is unsuccessful, the type of random number in the reach group included in the pre-determination start information ("undefined value" or "fixed value") is first determined (pre-random number type determination). In this embodiment, the types of reach group random numbers are defined as "undefined value" and "fixed value". "Undetermined value" means that when the start information (special figure 1 start information or special figure 2 start information) is acquired (stored), the type of variation mode (variation mode number) and the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) are not determined, and the type of variation mode (variation mode number) and the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) are determined at the start of the variation display of the special symbols based on the said start information (when step S11-7 is executed) based on the number of reserved symbols at that time (special figure 1 reserved symbols or special figure 2 reserved symbols), etc. "Fixed value" refers to a type where, regardless of the number of reserved symbols at the start of the special symbol variation display (when step S11-7 is executed), the type of variation mode (variation mode number) and the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) are determined when the start information (special symbol 1 start information or special symbol 2 start information) is acquired (stored) (when step S9-8 is executed). In this embodiment, the value of the reach group random number is updated within the range of "0" to "10006". Of the range from "0" to "10006", "0" to "8499" is considered an "undefined value", and "8500" to "10006" is considered a "fixed value". Therefore, in the pre-random number type determination, if the value of the reach group random number included in the pre-determination start information is less than "8500", it is determined to be an "undefined value", and if the value of the reach group random number included in the pre-determination start information is "8500" or greater, it is determined to be a "fixed value".

[0131] In the pre-selection special pattern variation determination process when a selection is unsuccessful, if the pre-selection random number type determination determines it to be a "fixed value", then the pre-selection reach group determination, pre-selection variation pattern determination, and pre-selection variation mode determination are performed. On the other hand, in the pre-selection special pattern variation determination process when a selection is unsuccessful, if the pre-selection random number type determination determines it to be an "undefined value," the pre-selection reach group determination, the pre-selection variation pattern determination, and the variation mode determination when a selection is unsuccessful are not performed. The pre-reach group determination determines the type of reach group (reach group number). ROM220 stores a reach group determination table in which the correspondence between the reach mode random number and the type of reach group (reach group number) is registered. Additionally, the system stores two reach group determination tables: one for variable values ​​and another for fixed values. In this embodiment, the types of reach groups are defined as "Reach Group 1" and "Reach Group 2". Furthermore, the reach group determination table for indefinite values ​​only has "Reach Group 1" registered as the type of reach group ("Reach Group 2" is not registered). On the other hand, the fixed-value reach group determination table only has "Reach Group 2" registered as a reach group type ("Reach Group 1" is not registered). As described above, the pre-reach group determination is performed only if the pre-random number type determination determines it to be a "fixed value". In the pre-reach group determination, the fixed-value reach group determination table is read. Then, the type of reach group is determined based on the reach group random number included in the pre-determination start information and the read fixed-value reach group determination table.

[0132] In the pre-selection fluctuation pattern determination for unsuccessful candidates, the type of fluctuation pattern (fluctuation pattern number) is determined. ROM220 stores a table for determining the losing variation pattern, which contains the correspondence between the variation pattern random number and the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number). Furthermore, two tables are stored as tables for determining the pattern of change when a selection is rejected: "Table 1 for determining the pattern of change when a selection is rejected" corresponding to "Reach Group 1," and "Table 2 for determining the pattern of change when a selection is rejected" corresponding to "Reach Group 2." Furthermore, the "Decision Table 1 for Defective Selection Patterns" stores a table corresponding to each combination of the number of reserved slots (number of reserved slots in Special Feature 1 or Special Feature 2) and the execution status of the time-saving control (in progress or stopped).

[0133] Furthermore, in the "Table 1 for Determining Variation Patterns at Time of Loss," only "No-Reach Variation" is registered as the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) ("Reach Variation" is not registered). Furthermore, the contents of the "Decision Table 1 for Losing a Selection" corresponding to each number of pending selections are set so that the more pending selections there are, the more likely it is that a type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) related to a short variation time will be selected. In the "Table 2 for Determining Variation Patterns When Losing a Selection," only "Reach Variation" is registered as a type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) ("No-Reach Variation" is not registered).

[0134] As described above, the pre-selection pattern determination is performed only if the pre-selection random number type determination determines it to be a "fixed value". In the pre-selection pattern determination for unsuccessful candidates, the type of reach group determined by the pre-selection reach group determination is first checked, and the unsuccessful candidate pattern determination table corresponding to this check result is read. Then, based on the random number of the variation pattern included in the pre-determination start information and the reading of the variation pattern determination table at the time of winning, the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) is determined.

[0135] In the pre-selection fluctuation mode determination upon rejection, the type of fluctuation mode (fluctuation mode number) is determined. ROM220 stores a table for determining the losing variation mode, which contains the correspondence between the reach mode random number and the type of variation mode (variation mode number). Furthermore, the system stores two tables for determining the mode of variation upon losing: "Table 1 for determining mode of variation upon losing" corresponding to "Reach Group 1," and "Table 2 for determining mode of variation upon losing" corresponding to "Reach Group 2." Furthermore, the "Decision Table 1 for Mode Variation When Losing a Selection" stores a table corresponding to each combination of the number of reserved slots (number of reserved slots in Special Feature 1 or Special Feature 2) and the execution status of the time-saving control (in progress or stopped).

[0136] Furthermore, in the "Fluctuation Mode Determination Table 1 upon Failure," only "Normal Fluctuation" is registered as the type of fluctuation mode (fluctuation mode number). Furthermore, the contents of the "Fluctuation Mode Determination Table 1 at the Time of Loss" corresponding to each number of pending selections are set so that the more pending selections there are, the more likely it is that a type of fluctuation mode (fluctuation mode number) related to a short fluctuation time will be selected. The "Decision Table for Variation Mode at the Time of Failure" only registers "Normal Variation" with a variation time of 0[s]. Therefore, when "Reach Variation" is selected as the type of variation mode, "Normal Variation" with a variation time of 0[s] will always be selected.

[0137] As described above, the pre-selection mode determination is performed only if the pre-selection random number type determination determines it to be a "fixed value". In the pre-selection mode determination process, the type of reach group determined by the pre-selection reach group determination is first checked, and the corresponding pre-selection mode determination table is read. Then, based on the reach mode random number included in the pre-determination start information and the read-out failure mode determination table, the type of variation mode (variation mode number) is determined.

[0138] In the pre-selection special pattern variation determination process for unsuccessful selections, the next step is to execute the second pre-reading specification command setting process. In the second pre-read specification command setting process, if the pre-random number type determination determines it to be a "fixed value," the second pre-read specification command, which specifies the type of variation mode (variation mode number) determined by the pre-variation mode determination when unsuccessful, is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. On the other hand, if the pre-random number type determination determines it to be an "undefined value," a second look-ahead command specifying "undefined value" is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230.

[0139] In the pre-selection special pattern variation determination process for unsuccessful selections, the next step is to execute the third pre-reading specification command setting process. In the third pre-read command setting process, if the pre-random number type determination determines it to be a "fixed value," the third pre-read command specifying the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) determined by the pre-variation pattern determination in case of rejection is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. On the other hand, if the pre-random number type determination determines it to be an "undefined value," a third pre-read command specifying "undefined value" is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230.

[0140] Based on the above, if the value of the reach group random number included in the pre-determined start information is a "fixed value", the type of variation mode (variation mode number) and the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) are determined, and second and third pre-read specification commands specifying the determined type of variation mode and type of variation pattern are sent to the performance control circuit 300. On the other hand, if the value of the reach group random number included in the pre-determined start information is an "undefined value," the type of variation mode (variation mode number) and the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) are not determined, and a second and third pre-read specification command specifying an "undefined value" is sent to the performance control circuit 300.

[0141] Next, we will explain the special game management process in step S4-11. Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the special game management process. In this embodiment, the phases and stages (hereinafter referred to as "special game phases") of a game executed based on a special symbol lottery (hereinafter referred to as "special game") are defined as: "waiting state for special symbol variation", "during special symbol variation", "special symbol stopped symbol display state", "state before the first major prize opening", "first major prize opening control state", "first major prize opening closure effective state", "first major prize opening end wait state", "state before the second major prize opening", "second major prize opening control state", "second major prize opening closure effective state", and "second major prize opening end wait state". Then, in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230, a value (special game phase flag) corresponding to one of the 11 special game phases is set. Furthermore, the ROM220 stores special game control modules (programs) corresponding to each special game phase, which are used to control (execute) the special games. Then, in the special game management process, a special game control module corresponding to the value set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230 is selected, and processing based on the selected special game control module is executed.

[0142] Specifically, when the special game management process is executed in step S4-11, it first proceeds to step S10-1, as shown in Figure 15. In step S10-1, the special game phase acquisition process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S10-2. In the special game phase acquisition process, the value (special game phase) set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230 is acquired (loaded). In step S10-2, the special game control module acquisition process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S10-3. In the special game control module acquisition process, the special game control module corresponding to the value (special game phase) acquired in step S10-1 is read. In step S10-3, the special game control module execution process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game control module execution process, processing based on the special game control module read in step S10-2 is started. Specifically, if the value obtained in step S10-1 corresponds to the "waiting state for special symbol variation", the special symbol variation waiting process described later will start. If the value corresponds to the "during special symbol variation state", the special symbol variation process described later will start. If the value corresponds to the "special symbol stopped symbol display state", the special symbol stopped process described later will start. If the value corresponds to the "pre-opening state of the first large prize slot", the pre-opening process of the first large prize slot described later will start. If the value corresponds to the "control state for opening the first large prize slot", the first large prize slot opening control process described later will start. If the value corresponds to the "effective closing state of the first large prize slot", the first The process to activate the closing of the main prize slot is initiated, and if the value corresponds to the "First main prize slot opening end weight state", the first main prize slot opening end weight process described later is initiated. If the value corresponds to the "Second main prize slot opening pre-state", the second main prize slot opening pre-process described later is initiated. If the value corresponds to the "Second main prize slot opening control state", the second main prize slot opening control process described later is initiated. If the value corresponds to the "Second main prize slot closing effective state", the second main prize slot closing effective process described later is initiated. If the value corresponds to the "Second main prize slot opening end weight state", the second main prize slot opening end weight process described later is initiated.

[0143] Next, we will explain the special feature change waiting process performed in step S10-3. Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the special feature change waiting process. When the special feature change waiting process is executed in step S10-3, the process first proceeds to step S11-1, as shown in Figure 16. In step S11-1, it is determined whether the value of the Special Feature 2 Reserved Count Counter is "1" or greater. If it is determined that the value of the Special Feature 2 Reserved Count Counter is not "1" or greater (No), the process proceeds to step S11-2. If it is determined that the value of the Special Feature 2 Reserved Count Counter is "1" or greater (Yes), the process proceeds to step S11-3. In step S11-2, it is determined whether the value of the Special Feature 1 Reserved Count Counter is "1" or greater. If it is determined that the value of the Special Feature 1 Reserved Count Counter is "1" or greater (Yes), the process proceeds to step S11-3. If it is determined that the value of the Special Feature 1 Reserved Count Counter is not "1" or greater (Yes), the process proceeds to step S11-13.

[0144] In step S11-3, the special symbol reserve number update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S11-4. In the special symbol reserve number update process, the special symbol reserve number (special symbol 1 reserve number or special symbol 2 reserve number) is updated. Specifically, in the special feature hold count update process, first, one of the start information (special feature 1 start information and special feature 2 start information) stored in the start information storage area of ​​RAM230 (special feature 1 start information storage area and special feature 2 start information storage area) is selected as the judgment start information. In this embodiment, the Special Figure 2 start information stored in the Special Figure 2 start information storage area takes precedence over the Special Figure 1 start information stored in the Special Figure 1 start information storage area when performing start determination (Special Figure win / loss determination, Special Figure stop symbol determination, Special Figure variation pattern determination, etc.). Therefore, if the Figure 2 Start Information is stored in the storage unit of the Figure 2 Start Information Storage Area, the Figure 2 Start Information that was acquired (stored) first among those stored in the Figure 2 Start Information Storage Area will be selected as the determination start information. In other words, the Figure 2 Start Information stored in the first storage unit of the Figure 2 Start Information Storage Area will be selected as the determination start information. On the other hand, if the Figure 2 start information is not stored in the storage area of ​​the Figure 2 start information storage area, the Figure 1 start information that is acquired (stored) first among the Figure 1 start information stored in the Figure 1 start information storage area is selected as the determination start information. In other words, the Figure 1 start information stored in the first storage area of ​​the Figure 1 start information storage area is selected as the determination start information. Next, update the value of the special feature reserve counter (special feature 1 reserve counter or special feature 2 reserve counter). Specifically, if the Special Feature 1 start information is used as the judgment start information, "1" is subtracted from the value of the Special Feature 1 reserve counter. On the other hand, if the Special Feature 2 start information is used as the judgment start information, "1" is subtracted from the value of the Special Feature 2 reserve counter. Next, the memory area for the determination start information is changed (shifted) from the start information memory area (Figure 1 start information memory area or Figure 2 start information memory area) to the variable start information memory area. Specifically, if the Special Figure 2 Start Information is determined to be the determination start information, the Special Figure 2 Start Information (determination start information) stored in the first memory unit of the Special Figure 2 Start Information storage area is stored (shifted) to the variable start information storage area. Also, if Special Figure 2 Start Information is stored in the second to fourth memory units of the Special Figure 2 Start Information storage area, the Special Figure 2 Start Information stored in each memory unit is stored (shifted) to the memory unit with a priority one level higher than the memory unit in question. On the other hand, if the Special Figure 1 start information is determined to be the start information, the Special Figure 1 start information (determined start information) stored in the first memory unit of the Special Figure 1 start information storage area is stored (shifted) to the variable start information storage area. Also, if the Special Figure 1 start information is stored in the second to fourth memory units of the Special Figure 1 start information storage area, the Special Figure 1 start information stored in each memory unit is stored (shifted) to the memory unit with a priority one level higher than the memory unit in question.

[0145] In step S11-4, the special symbol win / loss determination process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S11-5. In the special symbol win / loss determination process, the result of the special symbol lottery is determined (special symbol win / loss determination). In the special feature win / loss determination process, the value set in the setting information storage area (setting value) is checked, and the special feature win / loss lottery table corresponding to this check result is read. Then, based on the winning random number included in the judgment start information and the special symbol win / loss lottery table that has been read out, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery is a "minor win" (special symbol win / loss determination). Specifically, if the value of the winning random number included in the judgment start information matches the minor win value registered in the special symbol win / loss lottery table that has been read out, the result of the special symbol lottery is determined to be a "minor win" (winning). On the other hand, if the value of the winning random number included in the judgment start information does not match the minor win value registered in the special symbol win / loss lottery table that has been read out (i.e., it matches the losing value), the result of the special symbol lottery will be determined as a "loss" (failure).

[0146] In step S11-5, the special symbol stop pattern determination process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S11-6. In the special symbol stop pattern determination process, the type of special symbol that stops is first determined (special symbol stop pattern determination). In other words, if the special symbol win / loss judgment determines a "minor win" (winning), the type of "minor win symbol" is determined. Specifically, the process begins by first checking the type of judgment start information (special figure 1 start information or special figure 2 start information), and then reading the minor win symbol lottery table corresponding to this check result. Finally, the type of minor win symbol is determined based on the winning symbol random number included in the judgment start information and the read minor win symbol lottery table. On the other hand, if the special symbol win / loss judgment determines that it is a "miss" (failure), the type of stopped symbol will be determined as a "losing symbol".

[0147] In the special symbol stop pattern determination process, the next step is to determine the special symbol's stop pattern (segment data / stop pattern number). ROM220 stores a segment data table in which the correspondence between the random number values ​​of the winning symbols and the stopping symbols (segment data and stopping symbol numbers) is registered. Additionally, the segment data tables include a segment data table corresponding to "minor win 1 symbol," a segment data table corresponding to "minor win 2 symbol," and a segment data table corresponding to "losing symbol." To determine the stopping symbol for a special symbol, first, the result of the special symbol stopping symbol determination is checked, and the segment data table corresponding to this determination result is read. Then, the stopping symbol (segment data, stopping symbol number) is determined based on the winning symbol random number included in the determination start information and the read segment data table. In the special symbol stop pattern determination process, the determined stop pattern (segment data and stop pattern number) is then stored in the stop pattern memory area of ​​RAM230.

[0148] In step S11-6, the symbol type specification command setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S11-7. In the symbol type specification command setting process, the symbol type specification command, which specifies the type of stopped symbol determined in step S11-5, is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In step S11-7, the special symbol variation pattern determination process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S11-8. In the special symbol variation pattern determination process, the variation mode of the special symbols (type of variation mode and type of variation pattern) is determined. Specifically, the special symbol variation pattern determination process determines whether or not the special symbol win / loss determination resulted in a "minor win" (winning). If the special symbol win / loss determination results in a "minor win" (winning), the special symbol variation pattern determination process at the time of winning is executed. On the other hand, if the special symbol win / loss determination results in a "loss" (not winning), the special symbol variation pattern determination process at the time of losing is executed.

[0149] In the process of determining the pattern of special symbol variation upon winning, the first step is to determine the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) (winning variation pattern determination). In determining the winning variation pattern, the current execution status of the time-saving control is checked, and the winning variation pattern determination table corresponding to this check result is read. Then, based on the random number of the variation pattern included in the judgment start information and the reading of the winning variation pattern judgment table, the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) is determined. In the process of determining the special symbol variation mode upon winning, the next step is to determine the type of variation mode (variation mode number) (variation mode determination upon winning). In the win-time variation mode determination, the type of variation pattern (variation mode number) determined by the win-time variation pattern determination is checked, and the win-time variation mode determination table corresponding to this check result is read. Then, based on the random number for the reach mode included in the judgment start information and the reading of the winning variation mode judgment table, the type of variation mode (variation mode number) is determined.

[0150] On the other hand, in the process of determining the pattern of special feature variation when a selection is unsuccessful, the type of random number in the reach group included in the judgment start information is first determined (random number type determination). In determining the type of random number, if the value of the reach group random number included in the determination start information is less than "8500", it is determined to be an "undefined value", and if the value of the reach group random number included in the determination start information is "8500" or greater, it is determined to be a "fixed value". In the process of determining the pattern of special symbol variation when a selection is unsuccessful, the next step is to determine the type of reach group (reach group number) (reach group determination). In the reach group determination process, if the random number type determination determines it to be a "fixed value," the fixed value reach group determination table is read. Then, the type of reach group is determined based on the reach group random number included in the determination start information and the read fixed value reach group determination table. On the other hand, if the random number type determination determines it to be an "undefined value," the reach group determination table for undefined values ​​is read. Then, the type of reach group is determined based on the reach group random number included in the determination start information and the read reach group determination table for undefined values. In the process for determining the type of special pattern variation when a selection is unsuccessful, the next step is to determine the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) (determination of variation pattern when selection is unsuccessful). In the failure pattern determination, if the random number type determination determines it to be a "fixed value," the type of reach group determined by the reach group determination is checked, and the failure pattern determination table corresponding to this confirmation result is read. Then, the type of fluctuation pattern (fluctuation pattern number) is determined based on the fluctuation pattern random number included in the determination start information and the read failure pattern determination table. On the other hand, if the random number type determination determines it to be an "undefined value," the type of reach group determined by the reach group determination, the number of reserved balls (number of reserved balls in Special Feature 1 or Special Feature 2), and the execution status of the time-saving control are checked, and the failure-time variation pattern determination table corresponding to this check result is read out. Then, the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) is determined based on the variation pattern random number included in the determination start information and the read-out failure-time variation pattern determination table. In the process for determining the type of special feature variation when a selection is unsuccessful, the next step is to determine the type of variation mode (variation mode number) (determination of variation mode when selection is unsuccessful). In the failure-to-win variation mode determination, if the random number type determination determines it to be a "fixed value," the type of reach group determined by the reach group determination is checked, and the failure-to-win variation mode determination table corresponding to this check result is read. Then, the type of variation mode (variation mode number) is determined based on the reach mode random number included in the determination start information and the read-out failure-to-win variation mode determination table. On the other hand, if the random number type determination determines it to be an "undefined value," the type of reach group determined by the reach group determination, the number of reserved balls (number of reserved balls in Special Feature 1 or Special Feature 2), and the execution status of the time-saving control are checked, and the failure-time variation mode determination table corresponding to this check result is read out. Then, the type of variation mode (variation mode number) is determined based on the reach mode random number included in the determination start information and the read-out failure-time variation mode determination table.

[0151] In step S11-8, the variable pattern command setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S11-9. In the variable pattern command setting process, a variable mode specification command specifying the type of variable mode (variation mode number) determined in step S11-7 is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In addition, a variable pattern specification command specifying the type of variable pattern (variation pattern number) determined in step S11-7 is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In step S11-9, the special feature variation time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S11-10. In the special feature variation time setting process, the variation time (hereinafter referred to as "variation time 1") corresponding to the type of variation mode (variation mode number) determined in step S11-7 is obtained. In addition, the variation time (hereinafter referred to as "variation time 2") corresponding to the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) determined in step S11-7 is obtained. Then, the total time of the obtained variation time 1 and variation time 2 is calculated. Finally, the calculated total time is set in the special game timer. In step S11-10, the special figure fluctuation display data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S11-11. In the special figure fluctuation display data setting process, data for controlling the fluctuation display of the special figure display device is set. Specifically, in the special feature variation display data setting process, first, a predetermined display time is set in the special feature display timer. Next, if the determination start information is the start information of Figure 1, predetermined segment data is set as the segment data corresponding to the display device of Figure 1. As a result, the segments corresponding to the set segment data among the predetermined number of segments that make up the display device of Figure 1 are controlled to light up. On the other hand, if the determination start information is the start information shown in Figure 2, predetermined segment data is set as the segment data corresponding to the display device shown in Figure 2. As a result, the segments corresponding to the set segment data among the predetermined number of segments constituting the display device shown in Figure 2 are controlled to light up.

[0152] In step S11-11, the process for setting the number of reserved symbols command is executed, and the process proceeds to step S11-12. In the process for setting the number of reserved symbols command, a command specifying that the number of reserved symbols (number of reserved symbols for Special Feature 1 or Special Feature 2) has decreased by "1" is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. At this time, if the judgment start information is Special Feature 1 start information, a command specifying that the number of reserved symbols for Special Feature 1 has decreased by "1" is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230, and if the judgment start information is Special Feature 2 start information, a command specifying that the number of reserved symbols for Special Feature 2 has decreased by "1" is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230. In steps S11-12, the special game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "special symbol variation state" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230. In step S11-13, the demo command setting process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the demo command setting process, the demo command is stored in the subcommand output request buffer of RAM230.

[0153] Next, we will explain the special feature change processing performed in step S10-3. Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the processing during special feature variation. When the special feature variation processing is executed in step S10-3, the process first proceeds to step S12-1, as shown in Figure 17. In step S12-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S12-2. If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S12-4. In step S12-2, it is determined whether the value of the special display timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special display timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S12-3. If it is determined that the value of the special display timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-12). In step S12-3, the special figure fluctuation display data update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special figure fluctuation display data update process, the data for controlling the fluctuation display of the special figure display device is updated. Specifically, in the special symbol variation display data update process, if the variation display of the first special symbol is in progress, the segment data corresponding to the special symbol 1 display device is updated. On the other hand, if the variation display of the second special symbol is in progress, the segment data corresponding to the special symbol 2 display device is updated.

[0154] In step S12-4, the special feature stop display data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S12-5. In the special feature stop display data setting process, data for controlling the stop display of the special feature display device is set. Specifically, in the special symbol stop display data setting process, the stop symbols (segment data and stop symbol number) stored in the stop symbol memory area of ​​RAM230 are retrieved. Next, when the variable display of the first special symbol is to end, the acquired segment data (or segment data corresponding to the acquired stop symbol number) is set as segment data corresponding to the special symbol 1 display device. As a result, among the predetermined number of segments that make up the special symbol 1 display device, the segment corresponding to the set segment data is controlled to light up (stop display). On the other hand, when the display of the second special symbol is to end, the acquired segment data (or segment data corresponding to the acquired stop symbol number) is set as segment data corresponding to the special symbol 2 display device. As a result, among the predetermined number of segments that make up the special symbol 2 display device, the segment corresponding to the set segment data is controlled to light up (stop display). In step S12-5, the special symbol stop time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S12-6. In the special symbol stop time setting process, a predetermined stop time is set in the special game timer. In step S12-6, the stop command setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S12-7. In the stop command setting process, the stop command is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. Also, a predetermined number (1 in this embodiment) is added to the value of the external information confirmation count counter. In step S12-7, the special game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "special symbol stop display state" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0155] Next, we will explain the special feature stop processing performed in step S10-3. Figure 18 is a flowchart showing the processing during special feature stoppage. When the special stop processing is executed in step S10-3, the process first proceeds to step S13-1, as shown in Figure 18. In step S13-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S13-2. If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-12). In step S13-2, it is determined whether the type of stopped symbol is a "minor win symbol". If it is determined that the type of stopped symbol is not a "minor win symbol" (No), the process proceeds to step S13-3. If it is determined that the type of stopped symbol is a "minor win symbol" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S13-5.

[0156] In step S13-3, the time-saving control management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S13-4. In the time-saving control management process, the time-saving control is managed. Specifically, in the time-saving control management process, it is first determined whether or not "1" is set in the time-saving control flag area of ​​RAM230. If it is determined that "1" is set in the time-saving control flag area, the time-saving termination determination process described later is executed. On the other hand, if it is determined that "1" is not set in the time-saving control flag area (i.e., "0" is set), the time-saving termination determination process is not executed, and the process proceeds to the next step (step S13-4). In the process for determining when the time-saving feature has ended, first, "1" is subtracted from the value of the time-saving counter. Next, the command specifying the number of time reductions, which specifies the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction (the remaining number of time reductions), is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. Next, we determine whether the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction is "0". Then, if it is determined that the value of the time-saving counter after subtraction is "0", the time-saving control flag area is set to "0". This stops the time-saving control. Furthermore, a game state specification command that specifies the stopping of time-saving control is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. On the other hand, if the time-saving counter value is determined to be non-zero (i.e., 1 or greater), the time-saving control flag area will remain set to 1. This ensures that the time-saving control continues. In step S13-4, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "waiting state for special symbol variation" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0157] In step S13-5, the time-saving control management process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S13-6. In the time-saving control management process, the time-saving control is managed. Specifically, in the time-saving control management process, it is first determined whether or not "1" is set in the time-saving control flag area of ​​RAM230. If it is determined that "1" is set in the time-saving control flag area, the time-saving termination determination process described later is executed. On the other hand, if it is determined that "1" is not set in the time-saving control flag area (i.e., "0" is set), the time-saving termination determination process is not executed, and the process proceeds to the next step (step S13-6). In the process for determining when the time-saving feature has ended, first, "1" is subtracted from the value of the time-saving counter. Next, the command specifying the number of time reductions, which specifies the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction (the remaining number of time reductions), is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. Next, we determine whether the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction is "0". Then, if it is determined that the value of the time-saving counter after subtraction is "0", the time-saving control flag area is set to "0". This stops the time-saving control. Furthermore, a game state specification command that specifies the stopping of time-saving control is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. On the other hand, if the time-saving counter value is determined to be non-zero (i.e., 1 or greater), the time-saving control flag area will remain set to 1. This ensures that the time-saving control continues.

[0158] In step S13-6, the first special electric control data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S13-7. In the first special electric control data setting process, control data is set for controlling the opening and closing of the first special electric device 53a. The ROM220 stores the first special electric control table. The first special electric control table specifies the opening time, the effective closing time of the big prize slot, the closing time of the big prize slot, the ending time, the number of rounds (number of minor win games), the control data (solenoid control data, control time data) for the first big prize slot solenoid 65 corresponding to each round (minor win game), and the control data (solenoid control data, control time data, etc.) for the V distribution solenoid 67 corresponding to each round (minor win game). In the first special power supply control data setting process, the first special power supply control table is read, and the read first special power supply control table is set in the special power supply control table area of ​​RAM230. Next, set the special electric power continuous operation count counter to "0".

[0159] In step S13-7, the small win opening time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S13-8. In the small win opening time setting process, the first special electric control table set in the special electric control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined opening time is set in the special game timer. In step S13-8, the process for setting the minor win opening specification command is executed, and the process proceeds to step S13-9. In the minor win opening specification command setting process, the opening specification command that specifies the start of the minor win game state is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In step S13-9, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "state before opening of the first large prize slot" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0160] Next, we will explain the pre-processing for opening the first major prize slot, which is performed in step S10-3. Figure 19 is a flowchart showing the pre-treatment process before opening the first major prize slot. When the pre-treatment for opening the first major prize slot is performed in step S10-3, the process proceeds to step S14-1, as shown in Figure 19. In step S14-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S14-2. If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-12). In step S14-2, the special electric power continuous operation count update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S14-3. In the special electric power continuous operation count update process, "1" is added to the value of the special electric power continuous operation count counter. In step S14-3, the round start specification command setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S14-4. In the round start specification command setting process, a round start specification command, which specifies the start of a round corresponding to the value of the special electric power continuous operation count counter, is stored in the subcommand output request buffer.

[0161] In step S14-4, the special electric function switching count setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S14-5. In the special electric function switching count setting process, the first special electric function control table set in the special electric function control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced to read the switching count corresponding to the value of the special electric function continuous operation count counter. The read switching count is then set to the special electric function switching count counter. In addition, the first special electric function 53a (first large prize slot solenoid 65) is set as the type of special electric function that will perform the switching. Next, set the value of the special electric prize winnings counter to "0". In step S14-5, the special power supply switching process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S14-6. The special power supply switching process will be described later. In step S14-6, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "first major prize opening control state" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0162] Next, we will explain the control process for opening the first prize winning slot, which is performed in step S10-3. Figure 20 is a flowchart showing the control process for opening the first major prize slot. When the control process for opening the first major prize slot is executed in step S10-3, the process first proceeds to step S16-1, as shown in Figure 20. In step S16-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S16-2. If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S16-4. In step S16-2, it is determined whether the value of the special electric power switching count counter is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special electric power switching count counter is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S16-3. If it is determined that the value of the special electric power switching count counter is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S16-5. In step S16-3, the special power supply switching process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S16-4. The special power supply switching process will be described later. In step S16-4, it is determined whether the value of the special electric prize counter has reached a predetermined upper limit (in this embodiment, 1 ball). If it is determined that the value of the special electric prize counter has reached the predetermined upper limit (Yes), the process proceeds to step S16-5. If it is determined that the value of the special electric prize counter has not reached the predetermined upper limit (No), the series of processes ends and the process proceeds to the next process (step S4-12).

[0163] In step S16-5, the process to terminate the control of opening the main prize slot is executed, and the process proceeds to step S16-6. In the process to terminate the control of opening the main prize slot, solenoid control data specifying the termination of power supply is set in a predetermined area of ​​RAM 230. As a result, the first special electric mechanism 53a is controlled to be in a closed state. In step S16-6, the process for setting the effective time for closing the big prize slot is executed, and the process proceeds to step S16-7. In the process for setting the effective time for closing the big prize slot, the first special electric control table set in the special electric control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined effective time for closing the big prize slot (interval time) is set in the special game timer. In step S16-7, the round end specification command setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S16-8. In the round end specification command setting process, a round end specification command, which specifies the end of the round corresponding to the value of the special electric power continuous operation count counter, is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In step S16-8, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "First large prize slot closure enabled state" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0164] Next, we will explain the process of closing the first major prize slot, which is performed in step S10-3. Figure 21 is a flowchart showing the process for closing the first major prize winning slot. When the first major prize-winning gate closing process is performed in step S10-3, the process proceeds to step S17-1, as shown in Figure 21. In step S17-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S17-2. If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-12). In step S17-2, it is determined whether the value of the special electric power continuous operation counter has reached a predetermined value. If it is determined that the value of the special electric power continuous operation counter has reached a predetermined value (Yes), the process proceeds to step S17-3. If it is determined that the value of the special electric power continuous operation counter has not reached a predetermined value (No), the process proceeds to step S17-9. Here, the first special power control table set in the special power control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and the number of rounds specified in the first special power control table is obtained as a default value to perform the determination. In step S17-3, it is determined whether "1" is set in the V-winning flag area of ​​RAM230. If it is determined that "1" is set in the V-winning flag area (Yes), the process proceeds to step S17-4. If it is determined that "0" is set in the V-winning flag area (No), the process proceeds to step S17-11.

[0165] In step S17-4, the game state update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S17-5. In the game state update process, the game state is updated. Specifically, in the game state update process, it is first determined whether or not "1" is set in the time-saving control flag area of ​​RAM230. If it is determined that "1" is set in the time-saving control flag area, the time-saving termination process described later is executed. On the other hand, if it is determined that "1" is not set in the time-saving control flag area (i.e., "0" is set), the time-saving termination process is not executed, and the process proceeds to the next step (step S17-5). In the time-saving termination process, first, the time-saving control flag area in RAM230 is set to "0". This stops the time-saving control. Furthermore, a game state specification command that specifies the stopping of time-saving control is stored in the subcommand output request buffer.

[0166] In step S17-5, the second special electric control data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S17-6. In the second special electric control data setting process, control data is set for controlling the opening and closing of the second special electric device 54a. The ROM220 stores the second special electric control table. The second special electric control table specifies the opening time, the effective closing time of the big prize slot, the closing time of the big prize slot, the ending time, the number of rounds (number of round games), and the control data (solenoid control data, control time data, etc.) for the second big prize slot solenoid 66 corresponding to each round (round game). In the second special power supply control data setting process, the second special power supply control table is read, and the read second special power supply control table is set in the special power supply control table area of ​​RAM230. The value of the special electric power continuous operation count counter will be maintained.

[0167] In step S17-6, the jackpot opening time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S17-7. In the jackpot opening time setting process, the second special electric control table set in the special electric control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined opening time is set in the special game timer. In step S17-7, the process for setting the jackpot opening command is executed, and the process proceeds to step S17-8. In the jackpot opening command setting process, the opening command that specifies the start of the jackpot game state is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In step S17-8, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "state before the second large prize slot opens" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0168] In step S17-9, the process for setting the closing time of the big prize slot is executed, and the process proceeds to step S17-10. In the process for setting the closing time of the big prize slot, the first special electric control table set in the special electric control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined closing time for the big prize slot is set in the special game timer. In step S17-10, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "state before opening of the first large prize slot" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0169] In step S17-11, the minor win ending time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S17-12. In the minor win ending time setting process, the first special electric control table set in the special electric control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined ending time is set in the special game timer. In step S17-12, the process for setting the minor win ending specification command is executed, and the process proceeds to step S17-13. In the minor win ending specification command setting process, the ending specification command that specifies the end of the minor win game state is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In step S17-13, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "first large prize slot opening end wait state" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0170] Next, we will explain the weight processing that is performed in step S10-3 to terminate the opening of the first prize winning slot. Figure 22 is a flowchart showing the weight processing after the opening of the first major prize slot. When the first major prize gate opening completion weight processing is performed in step S10-3, the process first proceeds to step S18-1, as shown in Figure 22. In step S18-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S18-2. If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-12). In step S18-2, the V non-prize designation command setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S18-3. In the V non-prize designation command setting process, the V non-prize designation command is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In step S18-3, the special game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "waiting state for special symbol variation" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0171] Next, we will explain the pre-processing for opening the second major prize slot, which is performed in step S10-3. Figure 23 is a flowchart showing the pre-treatment process before opening the second major prize slot. When the pre-treatment for opening the second major prize slot is performed in step S10-3, the process first proceeds to step S40-1, as shown in Figure 23. In step S40-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S40-2. If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-12). In step S40-2, the special electric power continuous operation count update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S40-3. In the special electric power continuous operation count update process, "1" is added to the value of the special electric power continuous operation count counter. In step S40-3, the round start specification command setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S40-4. In the round start specification command setting process, a round start specification command, which specifies the start of a round corresponding to the value of the special electric power continuous operation count counter, is stored in the subcommand output request buffer.

[0172] In step S40-4, the special electric function switching count setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S40-5. In the special electric function switching count setting process, the second special electric function control table set in the special electric function control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced to read the switching count corresponding to the value of the special electric function continuous operation count counter. The read switching count is then set to the special electric function switching count counter. In addition, the second special electric function 54a (second large prize slot solenoid 66) is set as the type of special electric function to perform the switching. Next, set the value of the special electric prize winnings counter to "0". In step S40-5, a special power supply switching process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S40-6. The special power supply switching process will be described later. In step S40-6, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "second large prize opening control state" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0173] Next, we will explain the control process for opening the second prize winning slot, which is performed in step S10-3. Figure 24 is a flowchart showing the control process for opening the second prize winning slot. When the second major prize-winning gate opening control process is executed in step S10-3, the process first proceeds to step S41-1, as shown in Figure 24. In step S41-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S41-2. If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S41-4. In step S41-2, it is determined whether the value of the special electric power switching count counter is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special electric power switching count counter is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S41-3. If it is determined that the value of the special electric power switching count counter is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S41-5. In step S41-3, the special power supply switching process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S41-4. The special power supply switching process will be described later. In step S41-4, it is determined whether the value of the special electric prize counter has reached a predetermined upper limit (10 balls in this embodiment). If it is determined that the value of the special electric prize counter has reached the predetermined upper limit (Yes), the process proceeds to step S41-5. If it is determined that the value of the special electric prize counter has not reached the predetermined upper limit (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-12).

[0174] In step S41-5, the process to terminate the control of opening the main prize slot is executed, and the process proceeds to step S41-6. In the process to terminate the control of opening the main prize slot, solenoid control data specifying the termination of power supply is set in a predetermined area of ​​RAM 230. As a result, the second special electric mechanism 54a is controlled to be in a closed state. In step S41-6, the process for setting the effective time for closing the big prize slot is executed, and the process proceeds to step S41-7. In the process for setting the effective time for closing the big prize slot, the second special electric control table set in the special electric control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined effective time for closing the big prize slot (interval time) is set in the special game timer. In step S41-7, the round end specification command setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S41-8. In the round end specification command setting process, a round end specification command, which specifies the end of the round corresponding to the value of the special electric power continuous operation count counter, is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In step S41-8, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "Second large prize slot closure enabled state" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0175] Next, we will explain the process of closing the second major prize winning slot, which is performed in step S10-3. Figure 25 is a flowchart showing the process for closing the second major prize winning slot. When the second major prize-winning gate closing process is performed in step S10-3, the process first proceeds to step S42-1, as shown in Figure 25. In step S42-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S42-2. If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-12). In step S42-2, it is determined whether the value of the special electric power continuous operation counter has reached a predetermined value. If it is determined that the value of the special electric power continuous operation counter has reached a predetermined value (Yes), the process proceeds to step S42-3. If it is determined that the value of the special electric power continuous operation counter has not reached a predetermined value (No), the process proceeds to step S42-6. Here, the second special electric power control table set in the special electric power control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and the number of rounds of play specified in the second special electric power control table is obtained as a predetermined value for determination.

[0176] In step S42-3, the jackpot ending time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S42-4. In the jackpot ending time setting process, the second special electric control table set in the special electric control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined ending time is set in the special game timer. In step S42-4, the process for setting the jackpot ending specification command is executed, and the process proceeds to step S42-5. In the jackpot ending specification command setting process, the ending specification command that specifies the end of the jackpot game state is stored in the subcommand output request buffer. In step S42-5, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "second large prize slot opening end wait state" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230. In step S42-6, the process for setting the closing time of the big prize slot is executed, and the process proceeds to step S42-7. In the process for setting the closing time of the big prize slot, the second special electric control table set in the special electric control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined closing time for the big prize slot is set in the special game timer. In step S42-7, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "state before the second large prize slot opens" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0177] Next, we will explain the weight processing that is performed when the second prize winning slot is opened, which is carried out in step S10-3. Figure 26 is a flowchart showing the weight processing after the opening of the second large prize slot. When the second major prize gate opening termination weight processing is performed in step S10-3, the process first proceeds to step S43-1, as shown in Figure 26. In step S43-1, it is determined whether the value of the special game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S43-2. ​​If it is determined that the value of the special game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-12).

[0178] In step S43-2, the game state setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S43-3. In the game state setting process, the game state is set. Specifically, in the game state setting process, the type of stopping symbol (minor win symbol) is first determined. Then, if it is determined that the type of stopped symbol is "minor win symbol 2", a predetermined number of time-saving rounds (4 rounds in this embodiment) is set in the time-saving counter. Also, "1" is set in the time-saving control flag area of ​​RAM230. This starts the time-saving control. In addition, a game state specification command that specifies the start of time-saving control and a time-saving round count specification command that specifies the value of the time-saving counter after setting are stored in the subcommand output request buffer. On the other hand, if it is determined that the type of stopped symbol is "minor win symbol 1", a predetermined number of time-saving rounds (0 in this embodiment) is set in the time-saving counter. Also, the time-saving control flag area of ​​RAM230 is kept set to "0". As a result, time-saving control is not started. Next, set the V-winning flag area of ​​RAM230 to "0". In step S43-4, the special game phase update process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-12). In the special game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "waiting state for special symbol variation" is set in the special game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0179] Next, the special power supply switching processes in steps S14-5, S16-3, S40-5, and S41-3 will be explained. Figure 27 is a flowchart showing the special electric power switching process. When the special electric power switching process is performed in steps S14-5 and S16-3, the process first proceeds to step S15-1, as shown in Figure 27. In step S15-1, it is determined whether the value of the special electric power switching count counter is "0". If it is determined that the value of the special electric power switching count counter is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S15-2. If it is determined that the value of the special electric power switching count counter is "0" (Yes), the series of processes ends and the process proceeds to the next steps (steps S14-6, S16-4, S40-6, S41-4). In step S15-2, the special electric control data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S15-3. In the special electric control data setting process, control data is set to control the first special electric device 53a or the second special electric device 54a to an open or closed state. Specifically, in the special electric service control data setting process, the special electric service control table (first special electric service control table or second special electric service control table) set in the special electric service control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced to read solenoid control data corresponding to the value of the special electric service opening / closing count counter. Then, the read solenoid control data (control data that specifies whether to energize or stop energizing) is set in a predetermined area of ​​RAM230. At this time, the read solenoid control data is set in the area corresponding to the type of special electric service set to perform the opening / closing switch (first special electric service 53a or second special electric service 54a). As a result, based on the set solenoid data, control of the first large prize slot solenoid 65 or the second large prize slot solenoid 66 is started, and the first special electric service 53a or the second special electric service 54a is controlled to be in an open state or a closed state.

[0180] In step S15-3, the special electric power control time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S15-4. In the special electric power control time setting process, the control time for continuing control based on the solenoid control data set in step S15-2 is set. Specifically, in the special electric power control time setting process, the control time corresponding to the value of the special electric power switch count counter is read by referring to the special electric power control table (first special electric power control table or second special electric power control table) set in the special electric power control table area of ​​RAM230. Then, the read control time is set in the special game timer. In step S15-4, the special electric power switching count update process is executed, and the series of processes ends, moving on to the next process (steps S14-6, S16-4, S40-6, S41-4). In the special electric power switching count update process, "1" is subtracted from the value of the special electric power switching count counter.

[0181] Next, we will explain the normal game management process in step S4-12. Figure 28 is a flowchart showing the normal game management process. In this embodiment, the following phases and stages (hereinafter referred to as "normal game phases") of a game executed based on a normal symbol lottery (hereinafter referred to as "normal game") are defined: "normal symbol variation waiting state", "normal symbol variation in progress state", "normal symbol stopped symbol display state", "normal symbol electric mechanism before opening state", "normal symbol electric mechanism opening control state", "normal symbol electric mechanism closing effective state", and "normal symbol electric mechanism opening completion wait state". Then, in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230, a value (normal game phase flag) corresponding to one of the seven normal game phases is set. Furthermore, the ROM220 stores regular game control modules (programs) corresponding to each regular game phase, which are used to control (execute) regular gameplay. Then, in the normal game management process, a normal game control module corresponding to the value set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230 is selected, and processing based on the selected normal game control module is executed.

[0182] Specifically, when the normal game management process is executed in step S4-12, it first proceeds to step S19-1, as shown in Figure 28. In step S19-1, the normal game phase acquisition process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S19-2. In the normal game phase acquisition process, the value (normal game phase) set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230 is acquired (loaded). In step S19-2, the process of acquiring a normal game control module is executed, and the process proceeds to step S19-3. In the normal game control module acquisition process, the normal game control module corresponding to the value (normal game phase) acquired in step S19-1 is read. In step S19-3, the normal game control module execution process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the normal game control module execution process, processing based on the normal game control module read in step S19-2 is started. Specifically, if the value obtained in step S19-1 corresponds to the "waiting state for normal symbol variation", the normal symbol variation waiting process described later is started; if the value corresponds to the "normal symbol variation in progress" state, the normal symbol variation in progress process described later is started; if the value corresponds to the "normal symbol stopped symbol display state", the normal symbol stopped process described later is started; if the value corresponds to the "normal electric mechanism before opening state", the normal electric mechanism before opening process described later is started; if the value corresponds to the "normal electric mechanism opening control state", the normal electric mechanism opening control process described later is started; if the value corresponds to the "normal electric mechanism closing effective state", the normal electric mechanism closing effective process described later is started; and if the value corresponds to the "normal electric mechanism opening end wait state", the normal electric mechanism opening end wait process described later is started.

[0183] Next, we will explain the process of waiting for the general diagram to change, which is performed in step S19-3. Figure 29 is a flowchart showing the process of waiting for the graph to change. When the general diagram change waiting process is executed in step S19-3, the process first proceeds to step S20-1, as shown in Figure 29. In step S20-1, it is determined whether the value of the regular display reserve counter is "1" or greater. If it is determined that the value of the regular display reserve counter is "1" or greater (Yes), the process proceeds to step S20-2. If it is determined that the value of the regular display reserve counter is not "1" or greater (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-13). In step S20-2, the process for updating the number of reserved figures is executed, and the process proceeds to step S20-3. In the process for updating the number of reserved figures, the number of reserved figures is updated. Specifically, in the general diagram hold count update process, one of the general diagram start information stored in the general diagram start information storage area of ​​RAM230 is selected as the determination start information. In this embodiment, the first to be acquired (stored) among the general diagram start information stored in the general diagram start information storage area is selected as the determination start information.

[0184] In step S20-3, the normal symbol win / loss determination process is executed, and the process moves to step S20-4. In the normal symbol win / loss determination process, the result of the normal symbol lottery is determined (normal symbol win / loss determination). ROM220 stores a regular symbol win / loss lottery table in which the winning values ​​for regular symbol lotteries are registered. In addition, it stores a regular symbol win / loss lottery table corresponding to when the time-saving control is running, and a regular symbol win / loss lottery table corresponding to when the time-saving control is stopped. In the regular lottery table corresponding to the time-saving control being stopped, the winning values ​​are registered such that the probability of winning is the first probability (1 / 99 in this embodiment). On the other hand, in the regular lottery table corresponding to the time-saving control being executed, the winning values ​​are registered such that the probability of winning is the second probability (1 / 1 in this embodiment), which is higher than the first probability. Then, in the general drawing win / loss determination process, the general drawing win / loss determination is performed based on the winning random number included in the determination start information and the general drawing win / loss lottery table corresponding to the current execution status of the time-saving control (running or stopped). Specifically, if the value of the winning random number included in the judgment start information matches the winning value, the result of the regular symbol lottery is determined to be a "win". On the other hand, if the value of the winning random number included in the judgment start information does not match the winning value, the result of the regular symbol lottery is judged as a "miss" (failure).

[0185] In step S20-4, the normal symbol stop pattern determination process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S20-5. In the normal symbol stop pattern determination process, the type of normal symbol stop pattern (stop pattern number) is determined (normal symbol stop pattern determination). Specifically, in the normal symbol stop symbol determination process, if the normal symbol win / loss determination determines that it is a "win," the type of stop symbol (stop symbol number) is determined to be a "normal symbol win." On the other hand, if the general drawing results in a "loss" (failure), the type of stopping symbol (stopping symbol number) will be determined as a "losing symbol." Next, the type of stop symbol (stop symbol number) that was determined is stored in the stop symbol memory area of ​​RAM230. In step S20-5, the normal symbol variation pattern determination process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S20-6. In the normal symbol variation pattern determination process, the type of variation pattern (variation pattern number) of the normal symbol is determined (normal symbol variation pattern determination). Specifically, in the general diagram variation pattern determination process, if the time-saving control is stopped, the first type (in this embodiment, the type corresponding to a variation time of 2.0 [s]) is determined as the type of general diagram variation pattern (variation pattern number). On the other hand, when time-saving control is being performed, a second type (in this embodiment, a type corresponding to a variation time of 0.5 [s]) is determined as the type of general variation pattern (variation pattern number).

[0186] In step S20-6, the normal game variation time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S20-7. In the normal game variation time setting process, the variation time corresponding to the type of normal game variation pattern (variation pattern number) determined in step S20-6 is obtained. Then, the obtained variation time is set in the normal game timer. In step S20-7, the general display fluctuation data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S20-8. In the general display fluctuation data setting process, data for controlling the fluctuation display of the general display device is set. Specifically, in the process of setting data for the display of changes in the general diagram, first, a predetermined display time is set in the general diagram display timer. Next, predetermined segment data is set as segment data corresponding to the display device. As a result, the segments corresponding to the set segment data among the predetermined number of segments that make up the display device are controlled to light up. In step S20-8, the normal game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the normal game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "normal game phase change state" is set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0187] Next, we will explain the process performed during the general diagram change in step S19-3. Figure 30 is a flowchart showing the processing during normal fluctuations. When the general diagram change processing is performed in step S19-3, the process first proceeds to step S21-1, as shown in Figure 30. In step S21-1, it is determined whether the value of the normal game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S21-2. If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S21-4. In step S21-2, it is determined whether the value of the general display timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the general display timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S21-3. If it is determined that the value of the general display timer is not "0" (No), the series of processes ends and the process proceeds to the next process (step S4-13). In step S21-3, the general display fluctuation data update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the general display fluctuation data update process, the data for controlling the fluctuation display of the general display device is updated. Specifically, the general display change data update process updates the segment data corresponding to the general display device.

[0188] In step S21-4, the general display stop display data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S21-5. In the general display stop display data setting process, data for controlling the stop display of the general display device is set. Specifically, in the normal stop display data setting process, the stop symbols (segment data) stored in the stop symbol memory area of ​​RAM230 are retrieved. Next, the acquired segment data (segment data related to the stop symbol) is set as segment data corresponding to the display device. As a result, the segments corresponding to the set segment data among the predetermined number of segments that make up the display device are controlled to light up (display as stop). In step S21-5, the normal game stop time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S21-6. In the normal game stop time setting process, a predetermined stop time is set in the normal game timer. In step S21-6, the normal game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the normal game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "normal stop symbol display state" is set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0189] Next, we will explain the process performed during the normal stop operation in step S19-3. Figure 31 is a flowchart showing the process during normal shutdown. When the normal shutdown process is executed in step S19-3, the system first proceeds to step S22-1, as shown in Figure 31. In step S22-1, it is determined whether the value of the normal game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S22-2. If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-13). In step S22-2, it is determined whether the stopped symbol is a "regular winning symbol". If it is determined that the stopped symbol is not a "regular winning symbol" (No), the process proceeds to step S22-3. If it is determined that the stopped symbol is a "regular winning symbol" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S22-4. In step S22-3, the normal game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the normal game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "waiting state for normal diagram variation" is set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230. In step S22-4, the standard electric control data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S22-5. In the standard electric control data setting process, control data is set for controlling the opening and closing of the standard electric device 52a. ROM220 stores a standard electric power control table corresponding to the execution status (running or stopped) of the time-saving control. Each standard electric power control table specifies the time before the standard electric power is opened, the effective time for closing the standard electric power, the wait time after opening, the number of opening / closing cycles, and the control data (solenoid control data, control time data) corresponding to each opening / closing cycle. In the normal power supply control data setting process, the normal power supply control table corresponding to the execution status of the time-saving control (running or stopped) is read, and the read normal power supply control table is set in the normal power supply control table area of ​​RAM230. Next, the number of on / off switches is read by referring to the normal electric power control table set in the RAM230's normal electric power control table area. Then, the read number of on / off switches is set to the normal electric power on / off switch count counter. In addition, the value of the normal electric power prize count counter is set to "0".

[0190] In step S22-5, the process for setting the time before the normal electric power supply is opened is executed, and the process proceeds to step S22-6. In the process for setting the time before the normal electric power supply is opened, the normal electric power supply control table set in the normal electric power supply control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined time before the normal electric power supply is opened is set in the normal game timer. In step S22-6, the normal game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the normal game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "normal electric mechanism before opening state" is set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0191] Next, we will explain the pre-processing for opening the standard electric mechanism, which is performed in step S19-3. Figure 32 is a flowchart showing the pre-processing steps for opening a standard electric mechanism. When the pre-processing for opening the standard electric mechanism is performed in step S19-3, the process first proceeds to step S23-1, as shown in Figure 32. In step S23-1, it is determined whether the value of the normal game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S23-2. If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-13). In step S23-2, the normal power supply switching process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S23-3. The normal power supply switching process will be described later. In step S23-3, the normal game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the normal game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "normal electric mechanism opening control state" is set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0192] Next, the standard electric mechanism release control process performed in step S19-3 will be described. Figure 33 is a flowchart showing the control process for opening a standard electric mechanism. When the standard electric mechanism release control process is executed in step S19-3, the process first proceeds to step S25-1, as shown in Figure 33. In step S25-1, it is determined whether the value of the normal game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S25-2. If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S25-4. In step S25-2, it is determined whether the value of the normal power supply switching count counter is "0". If it is determined that the value of the normal power supply switching count counter is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S25-3. If it is determined that the value of the normal power supply switching count counter is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S25-5. In step S25-3, the normal power supply switching process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S25-4. The normal power supply switching process will be described later. In step S25-4, it is determined whether the value of the ordinary electric prize counter has reached a predetermined upper limit (in this embodiment, 3 balls). If it is determined that the value of the ordinary electric prize counter has reached the predetermined upper limit (Yes), the process proceeds to step S25-5. If it is determined that the value of the ordinary electric prize counter has not reached the predetermined upper limit (No), the series of processes ends and the process proceeds to the next process (step S4-13).

[0193] In step S25-5, the normal electric power supply release control termination process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S25-6. In the normal electric power supply release control termination process, solenoid control data specifying the deactivation of the power supply is set in a predetermined area of ​​the RAM 230. As a result, the normal electric power supply 52a is controlled to the closed state. In step S25-6, the normal electric power cutoff time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S25-7. In the normal electric power cutoff time setting process, the normal electric power control table set in the normal electric power control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined normal electric power cutoff time is set in the normal game timer. In step S25-7, the normal game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the normal game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "normal electric mechanism closing enabled state" is set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0194] Next, the normal power supply switching process in steps S23-2 and S25-3 will be explained. Figure 34 is a flowchart showing the process for switching between normal electric power supply and other power supply functions. When the normal power supply switching process is performed in steps S23-2 and S25-3, the process first proceeds to step S24-1, as shown in Figure 34. In step S24-1, it is determined whether the value of the normal power supply switching count counter is "0". If it is determined that the value of the normal power supply switching count counter is not "0" (No), the process proceeds to step S24-2. If it is determined that the value of the normal power supply switching count counter is "0" (Yes), the series of processes ends and the process proceeds to the next process (step S23-3 or S25-4). In step S24-2, the ordinary electric control data setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S24-3. In the ordinary electric control data setting process, control data is set to control the ordinary electric device 52a to either an open or closed state. Specifically, in the normal electric control data setting process, the normal electric control table set in the normal electric control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced to read solenoid control data corresponding to the value of the normal electric switch switching count counter. Then, the read solenoid control data (control data that specifies whether to energize or de-energize) is set in a predetermined area of ​​RAM230. As a result, control of the normal electric mechanism solenoid 64 based on the set solenoid data is started, and the normal electric mechanism 52a is controlled to be in an open or closed state.

[0195] In step S24-3, the normal power control time setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S24-4. In the normal power control time setting process, the control time for continuing control based on the solenoid control data set in step S24-2 is set. Specifically, in the normal electric power control time setting process, the normal electric power control table set in the normal electric power control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced to read the control time corresponding to the value of the normal electric power switch count counter. Then, the read control time is set in the normal game timer. In step S24-4, the process for updating the counter for normal power switching is executed, and the series of processes ends, moving on to the next process (step S23-3 or S25-4). In the process for updating the counter for normal power switching, "1" is subtracted from the value of the counter for normal power switching.

[0196] Next, we will explain the normal motorized mechanism closing activation process performed in step S19-3. Figure 35 is a flowchart showing the normal electric mechanism closing activation process. When the normal electric mechanism closing activation process is performed in step S19-3, the process first proceeds to step S26-1, as shown in Figure 35. In step S26-1, it is determined whether the value of the normal game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S26-2. If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-13). In step S26-2, the process for setting the release end wait time is executed, and the process proceeds to step S26-3. In the release end wait time setting process, the normal electric power control table set in the normal electric power control table area of ​​RAM230 is referenced, and a predetermined release end wait time is set in the normal game timer. In step S26-3, the normal game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the normal game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "normal electric mechanism opening end wait state" is set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0197] Next, we will explain the normal electric mechanism release termination wait process performed in step S19-3. Figure 36 is a flowchart showing the normal electric mechanism release completion wait process. When the normal electric mechanism opening completion wait process is performed in step S19-3, the process first proceeds to step S27-1, as shown in Figure 36. In step S27-1, it is determined whether the value of the normal game timer is "0". If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S27-2. If it is determined that the value of the normal game timer is not "0" (No), the process ends and the process proceeds to the next step (step S4-13). In step S27-2, the normal game phase update process is executed, and the series of processes is completed, moving on to the next process (step S4-13). In the normal game phase update process, a value corresponding to the "waiting state for normal diagram variation" is set in the normal game phase flag area of ​​RAM230.

[0198] Next, the performance display device control process in step S4-19 will be described. Figure 37 is a flowchart showing the control process for the performance display device. The performance display device control process is based on a program for controlling the display of the performance display device 61. In other words, the performance display device control process is based on a program stored in the unused area m2 (program area) of the ROM 220. The performance display device control process is called during the execution of the timer interrupt process. When the performance display device control process is called in step S4-19, it proceeds to step S28-1, as shown in Figure 37. In step S28-1, the stack pointer saving process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S28-2. In the stack pointer saving process, the value of the stack pointer used in the processing based on the program stored in the usage area m1 is saved to a saving area in RAM. In step S28-2, the register save process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S28-3. In the register save process, the values ​​of the registers used in the program-based processing stored in the usage area m1 are saved to the RAM save area. In step S28-3, the ball count is added, and the process proceeds to step S28-4. In the ball count addition process, the value stored in the out ball count addition value storage area of ​​RAM230 is added to the value of the out ball count counter. Next, the value stored in the payout count increment memory area of ​​RAM230 is added to the value of the payout counter. In step S28-4, the base ratio calculation process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S28-5. The base ratio calculation process will be described later.

[0199] In step S28-5, the performance display device display process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S28-6. In the performance display device display process, control data for displaying the base ratio is set in the performance display device 61. Specifically, in the performance display device display processing, in the performance display device data signal control data setting area, performance display device data signal control data corresponding to the base ratio calculated in step S38-4 (the current base ratio for the current section) or the base ratio saved in step S38-2 (the final base ratio for the previous section) is set. As a result, the performance display device 61 displays the current base ratio for the current section, or the final base ratio for the previous section, according to the performance display device data signal control data set in the performance display device data signal control data setting area. In this case, the performance display device 61 is configured such that the current base ratio of the current section and the final base ratio of the previous section are displayed alternately at predetermined intervals. This is achieved by alternately setting performance display device data signal control data corresponding to the current base ratio of the current section and performance display device data signal control data corresponding to the final base ratio of the previous section at predetermined intervals.

[0200] In step S28-6, the register recovery process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S28-7. In the register recovery process, the values ​​of the registers that were saved in step S28-2 (the values ​​of the registers used in the program-based processing stored in the usage area m1) are restored. In step S28-7, the stack pointer restoration process is executed, ending the series of processes and moving on to the next process (step S4-20). In the stack pointer restoration process, the value of the stack pointer that was saved in step S28-1 (the value of the stack pointer used in the processing based on the program stored in the usage area m1) is restored.

[0201] Next, we will explain the base ratio calculation process in step S28-4. Figure 38 is a flowchart showing the base ratio calculation process. The base ratio calculation process is based on a program for controlling the display of the performance display device 61. In other words, the base ratio calculation process is based on a program stored in the unused area m2 (program area) of the ROM 220. The base ratio calculation process is called during the execution of the performance display device control process. When the base ratio calculation process is called in step S28-4, it proceeds to ...

Claims

[Claim 1] The entrance and An opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the ball entry opening, The internal region through which the game balls that enter from the aforementioned ball entry opening flow down, A front panel that partitions the front side of the internal region, The front panel has through holes provided in it, The aforementioned internal region includes a specific region and a non-specific region, The system has a distribution means capable of distributing game balls that enter through the ball entry opening to either the specified area or the non-specified area. The through-hole is located between the sorting means and the non-specific region, and is positioned so as viewed from the front side that it does not overlap with the sorting means. A gaming machine characterized in that no other through holes are provided in the front panel at a position between the distribution means and the specific region.

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