Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine for partially restricting output of audio, such as a music piece, and display of an image, such as the words of a song.SOLUTION: Sound output control means can output first audio on the basis of sufficiency of a first condition, light emitting control means can allow light emitting means to emit light with a first light emitting pattern corresponding to the first audio, the first audio is outputted without being receiving restriction pertaining to first specific operation when a first condition is satisfied without first specific operation for restricting output of the first audio, the light emitting means emits light with the first light emitting pattern, restrictions pertaining to the first specific operation are imposed on the first audio when the first condition is satisfied after execution of the first specific operation, and the light emitting means emits light with the first light emitting pattern.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , , ,

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

Background Art

[0002] In gaming machines typified by pachinko machines, various music pieces can be reproduced by configuring the machine to be able to reproduce music during jackpot games and the like, and allowing the reproduced music to be selectable by gaming operations.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Recently, there has been a demand not only to play gaming machines but also to introduce the gameplay and publicly disclose the gaming machines during play as mere entertainment on video distribution sites and the like. However, in the public disclosure of such gaming videos, there is a problem that rights such as copyright are infringed by the output of sounds such as music and the display of images such as lyrics.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides a gaming machine that partially restricts the output of sounds such as music and the display of images such as lyrics.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to the present invention, the system comprises a sound output means, a sound output control means for controlling the sound output means, a light emission means, and a light emission control means for controlling the light emission means, wherein the sound output control means is capable of outputting a first musical piece based on the satisfaction of a first condition, the light emission control means is capable of emitting light from the light emission means in a first light emission pattern corresponding to the first musical piece, and when the first condition is satisfied without a first specific operation restricting the output of the first musical piece, the first musical piece is output without being restricted by the first specific operation, and the light emission means emits light in the first light emission pattern, and when the first condition is satisfied after the first specific operation has been performed, the first musical piece is restricted by the first specific operation, the light emission means emits light in the first light emission pattern, and a specific display corresponding to the first musical piece can be executed, and when the first specific operation is performed, the first musical piece is restricted by the first specific operation, and the specific display is maintained. A first specific notification may be issued that identifies that a restriction on the first specific operation will be imposed, the first specific notification may be terminated based on the elapsed time, if a new first specific operation is performed while the first specific notification is being performed, the first specific notification will continue, and the first specific notification will be terminated based on the elapsed time since the first specific operation was performed, and if a new first specific operation is performed while a restriction on the first specific operation is imposed on the first song after the first specific notification has been terminated, a new first specific notification will be started, and the notification manner of the new first specific notification will be the same as the notification manner of the first specific notification that was terminated before the new first specific operation was performed. A gaming machine characterized by the following is provided. Furthermore, according to the present invention, the system comprises a sound output means, a sound output control means for controlling the sound output means, a light emission means, and a light emission control means for controlling the light emission means, wherein the sound output control means is capable of outputting a first song based on the satisfaction of a first condition, the light emission control means is capable of emitting light from the light emission means in a first light emission pattern corresponding to the first song, and when the first condition is satisfied without a first specific operation restricting the output of the first song being performed, the first song is output without being restricted by the first specific operation, and the light emission means emits light in the first light emission pattern, and when the first condition is satisfied after the first specific operation has been performed, the first song is restricted by the first specific operation, the light emission means emits light in the first light emission pattern, and lyrics display may be performed while the first song is being output, and when the first specific operation is performed while the first song is being output and the lyrics display is being performed, the first song is restricted by the first specific operation, and the lyrics display is maintained. A first specific notification may be issued that identifies that a restriction on the first specific operation will be imposed, the first specific notification may be terminated based on the elapsed time, if a new first specific operation is performed while the first specific notification is being performed, the first specific notification will continue, and the first specific notification will be terminated based on the elapsed time since the first specific operation was performed, and if a new first specific operation is performed while a restriction on the first specific operation is imposed on the first song after the first specific notification has been terminated, a new first specific notification will be started, and the notification manner of the new first specific notification will be the same as the notification manner of the first specific notification that was terminated before the new first specific operation was performed. A gaming machine characterized by the following is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a gaming machine is provided that partially restricts the output of sound such as music and the display of images such as lyrics. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a front view of the gaming machine. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows the pattern display device installed in area II shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a bird's-eye view showing the group of control buttons and their surroundings located in area III shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a game board installed inside a gaming machine. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a rear view of the gaming machine. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of a gaming machine. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a gaming machine. [Figure 8] Figure 8(a) schematically shows a lottery table for determining whether a special symbol win or loss occurs; Figure 8(b) schematically shows a lottery table for determining the stopping symbols used when a big win is determined in the special symbol win or loss determination for special symbol 1; Figure 8(c) schematically shows a lottery table for determining the stopping symbols used when a small win is determined in the special symbol win or loss determination for special symbol 2; and Figure 8(d) schematically shows a lottery table for determining the stopping symbols used when a big win is determined in the special symbol win or loss determination for special symbol 2. [Figure 9] Figure 9(a) schematically shows the special symbol variation pattern lottery table used for symbol variation related to special symbol 1 when special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA, and Figure 9(b) schematically shows the special symbol variation pattern lottery table used when special symbol variation pattern HNP is determined in symbol variation related to special symbol 1 when special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA. [Figure 10]Figure 10(a) is a state transition diagram showing the transitions between the states for which the special pattern variation is derived, and Figure 10(b) is a diagram showing the relationship between the average variation time for each state for which the special pattern variation is derived. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows the flow of the playback management process during a jackpot game. [Figure 12] Figure 12(a) is a table summarizing the types of music played during jackpot games related to symbols A, B, b, and c, and their details, while Figure 12(b) is a table summarizing the types of music played during jackpot games related to symbols a and d. [Figure 13] Figure 13(a) schematically shows the music selection table used in the jackpot game related to symbol a, and Figure 13(b) schematically shows the music selection table used in the jackpot game related to symbol d. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows the flow of song selection in the song selection state. [Figure 15] Figure 15(a) is a table summarizing the types of background images displayed during jackpot games related to symbols A, B, b, and c, and Figure 15(b) is a table summarizing the types of background images displayed during jackpot games related to symbols a and d. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a table summarizing the presence or absence of vocals and the illumination pattern of the frame lamps for each song. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows a specific example of when a music restriction mode is set by a music restriction operation while a copyrighted music is being played. [Figure 18] Figures 18(a) and 18(b) are timing charts illustrating characteristic events that occur due to copyrighted music and music restriction modes. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a timing chart illustrating characteristic events that occur with copyrighted music and music restriction modes. [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows a specific example of when the music restriction mode is set by the music restriction operation while the original music is being played. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a timing chart showing characteristic phenomena that occur with original music and music restriction modes. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a specific example when the setting of the music restriction mode ends by a music release operation during a period in which the output of the licensed music is restricted. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a specific example when a music release operation is performed during the output of the original music. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a specific example when the lyrics restriction mode is set by a lyrics restriction operation during the display of the lyrics image related to the licensed music. [Figure 25] FIGS. 25(a) and 25(b) are timing charts showing characteristic events realized by the licensed music and the lyrics restriction mode. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a timing chart showing characteristic events realized by the licensed music and the lyrics restriction mode. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a specific example when the lyrics restriction mode is set by a lyrics restriction operation during the display of the lyrics image related to the original music. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a timing chart showing characteristic events realized by the lyrics image related to the original music and the lyrics restriction mode. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a specific example when the setting of the lyrics restriction mode ends by a lyrics release operation during a period in which the display of the lyrics image related to the licensed music is restricted. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a specific example when a lyrics release operation is performed during the display of the lyrics image related to the original music.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description will be omitted as appropriate. Further, in the following description, "front", "rear", "left", "right", "upper", and "lower" refer to the state seen from the front side (player side) of the gaming machine 10 as shown in FIG. 1 unless otherwise specified. In the following explanation, "advantageous (degree of advantage)" refers to being advantageous to the player, and unless otherwise specified, it refers to being advantageous in terms of the amount of prize balls (game currency) obtained (including not only game balls but also medals), excluding so-called premium images and other visual effects.

[0010] <About the features of this invention> Before describing the details of the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment, the features of the invention described in this embodiment will be explained. In describing the features, the configurations in parentheses are illustrative examples of the configurations in this embodiment corresponding to the preceding configuration, and configurations may be described in parentheses in a similar manner in subsequent descriptions of the gaming machine 10.

[0011] The present invention The means of outputting sound (speaker 33), Sound output control means (first sub-control board 200, voice control board 310) that control the above sound output means, Light-emitting means (frame lamp 35), A light emission control means (first sub-control board 200) for controlling the above-mentioned light emission means, Equipped with, The above sound output control means is capable of outputting the first sound based on the fulfillment of the first condition. The above-mentioned light emission control means is capable of emitting light in a first light emission pattern corresponding to the first sound, If the first condition is met without performing the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) that restricts the output of the first sound, the first sound will be output without being restricted by the first specific operation, and the light-emitting means will light up in the first light-emitting pattern. If the above first specific operation is performed and the above first condition is met, the above first audio is restricted in relation to the above first specific operation, and the above light-emitting means emits light in the above first light-emitting pattern. This is a gaming machine characterized by the following features.

[0012] According to the present invention, while suppressing the occurrence of rights infringement due to the output of the first sound when publishing game videos, it is possible to make it easier to recognize that the first sound is being played after the output of the first sound has been restricted.

[0013] Furthermore, the first condition mentioned above is simply the condition for initiating the output of the first sound, and its content is irrelevant. Furthermore, the first audio mentioned above includes not only music (as described later) but also other audio such as sound effects.

[0014] Furthermore, the method for limiting the output of sound in the present invention is not limited to replacing it with another sound as in the embodiment described later, but any method that makes the target sound difficult to perceive may be adopted, such as outputting another sound in parallel or setting the playback volume of the sound to zero.

[0015] The gaming machine 10 having the above-described features will be specifically explained based on the following embodiment.

[0016] <About the structure of gaming machine 10> First, the structure of the gaming machine 10 will be explained using Figures 1 to 5. Figure 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 10, Figure 2 shows the pattern display device 90 located in area II shown in Figure 1, Figure 3 is a bird's-eye view showing the group of operation buttons and their surroundings located in area III shown in Figure 1, Figure 4 shows the game board 50 installed inside the gaming machine 10, and Figure 5 is a rear view of the gaming machine 10. The configurations shown in Figures 1 to 5 are merely those necessary for explaining the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, and configurations and functions not shown herein may be added to the gaming machine 10. Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 does not necessarily have to include all of the configurations shown herein, and some configurations or functions may be omitted as long as they do not hinder the effects of the present invention.

[0017] The gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is a so-called pachinko machine, and it plays a game in which a game ball is launched into the front area (hereinafter referred to as the "game area 50a") of a game board 50 on which a large number of game pins (not shown) are erected, and when the game ball enters a prize pocket (for example, a large prize pocket 55, etc.), the player receives prize balls. In the following description, when a game ball enters a prize pocket, it may be simply referred to as "entering (a prize pocket) to win a prize."

[0018] The gaming machine 10 comprises a rectangular outer frame 15 that opens at the front and rear, an inner frame 17 that detachably holds the game board 50 on the front side of the opening of the outer frame 15, and a front frame 20 configured to cover the front side of the game board 50.

[0019] The middle frame 17 is supported by a hinge mechanism (not shown) located on the same side as the hinge mechanism 21, allowing it to rotate freely around its left end and open and close to the front of the outer frame 15. The middle frame 17 can be locked and unlocked by a cylinder lock 23 (by inserting a door key into the cylinder lock 23 and turning the door key in the opposite direction to the unlocking direction of the front frame 20 (to the right in this embodiment)).

[0020] The front frame 20 is supported by a hinge mechanism 21 so as to be able to rotate around its left end and open and close relative to the middle frame 17. The front frame 20 can be locked and unlocked by a cylinder lock 23 (by inserting a door key into the cylinder lock 23 and turning the door key in the opposite direction to the unlocking direction of the middle frame 17 (to the left in this embodiment)). Furthermore, the front frame 20 is equipped with a transparent member 25 positioned to cover the game area 50a, and the transparent member 25 provides transparent protection for the game area 50a and the game board 50. Furthermore, the front frame 20 is equipped with an upper ball receiving tray 27 and a lower ball receiving tray 29 for storing game balls, and the upper ball receiving tray 27 and the lower ball receiving tray 29 are spaced apart vertically and integrally provided with the front frame 20. In this embodiment, a full-capacity detection sensor (not shown) for detecting when the lower ball receiving tray 29 is full with discharged game balls is provided upstream of the lower discharge port 30 that discharges game balls into the lower ball receiving tray 29. Furthermore, the front frame 20 is equipped with an operating handle 31 on the right side of the lower ball receiving tray 29, and by rotating the operating handle 31, the game balls stored in the upper ball receiving tray 27 are launched toward the game area 50a.

[0021] Although not shown in Figures 1 to 5, the middle frame 17 has a middle frame open sensor 76 that detects whether the middle frame 17 is open or closed relative to the outer frame 15, and a front frame open sensor 77 that detects whether the front frame 20 is open or closed relative to the middle frame 17. In this embodiment, both of these open sensors are ON when open and OFF when closed. However, these open sensors may be configured to be OFF when open and ON when closed. This allows the gaming machine 10 to detect both the open / closed state of the middle frame 17 relative to the outer frame 15, and the open / closed state of the front frame 20 relative to the middle frame 17.

[0022] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, a group of operation buttons operated by the player is arranged on the upper surface of the upper ball receiving tray 27. This group of operation buttons includes a main operation unit 39 electrically connected to the main control board 100 (described later), which includes a ball dispensing button 39a and a return button 39b for accepting prepaid card return operations. It also includes an effect button 37 electrically connected to the first sub-control board 200 (described later), which can accept player operations to switch between effects that occur during gameplay or to obtain various information related to the gaming machine 10, and cursor buttons 38 (up cursor button 38a, down cursor button 38b, left cursor button 38c, right cursor button 38d, middle cursor button 38e) for instructing operations up, down, left, and right, respectively. Each operation unit is equipped with a sensor to detect operations, and the connected control board detects the operation of each operation unit by changes in the detection state of the sensor. Furthermore, a movable decorative body 22, which is operated by an actuator such as a motor (not shown), is provided on the side of the upper ball receiving tray 27.

[0023] The lower part of the lower ball receiving tray 29 is provided with a ball removal mechanism 36 that discharges the game balls stored in the lower ball receiving tray 29 downwards. By operating this ball removal mechanism 36, a bottom opening (not shown) formed on the bottom surface of the lower ball receiving tray 29 opens, and the game balls fall naturally out through this bottom opening and are discharged. Although not shown in the diagram, the upper ball tray 27 is equipped with a mechanism, similar to the ball removal mechanism 36, that, when operated, moves the stored balls to the lower ball tray 29. By operating both this mechanism and the ball removal mechanism 36, the stored balls can be discharged.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, a pair of speakers 33 (33a, 33b) are provided on the left and right sides of the upper frame portion 32 of the front frame 20, respectively. The upper frame portion 32 and the left and right side frame portions 34a, 34b of the front frame 20 are formed by light-transmitting covers, and frame lamps 35 (35a, 35b, 35c) are provided inside them, respectively. The speakers 33 and frame lamps 35 can emit sound or light up or turn off in conjunction with effects or error notifications that occur during gameplay.

[0025] The display device 80 consists of a main display unit 81 located approximately in the center of the game board 50, and sub-display units 82 located around the main display unit 81. The sub-display units 82 further include an upper sub-display unit 82a located above the main display unit 81, a left sub-display unit 82b located to the left of the main display unit 81, and a right sub-display unit 82c located to the right of the main display unit 81. Here, the main display unit 81 is a fixed liquid crystal display device, while the upper sub-display unit 82a, left sub-display unit 82b, and right sub-display unit 82c are movable liquid crystal display devices operated by actuators such as motors (not shown).

[0026] The main display unit 81 can display the changing display of the symbol sequence, which is performed in conjunction with the changing display in the first special symbol display device 91 or the second special symbol display device 92, which will be described later, and can also display various other effects. In the display of the pattern sequence (decorative pattern) shown on the main display unit 81, the displayed decorative pattern consists of three pattern sequences. In this embodiment, the direction of the display of each pattern sequence is downward, but this direction is not particularly limited. For example, it may be upward, left or right, in the depth direction, or a combination of these (diagonal direction). Here, the depth direction refers to the virtual direction perceived by the player in a display configuration that uses a method (for example, perspective) that makes it appear as if the pattern sequence is moving from the back to the front or vice versa, even though it is actually a two-dimensional, fluctuating display on the display screen of the main display unit 81. Furthermore, the decorative patterns in this embodiment include "Pattern 1" which resembles the number "1", "Pattern 2" which resembles the number "2", "Pattern 3" which resembles the number "3", "Pattern 4" which resembles the number "4", "Pattern 5" which resembles the number "5", "Pattern 6" which resembles the number "6", "Pattern 7" which resembles the number "7", "Pattern 8" which resembles the number "8", and "Pattern 9" which resembles the number "9", and these patterns are provided in each pattern row.In the following description, "Pattern 1", "Pattern 3", "Pattern 5", "Pattern 7", and "Pattern 9" may be collectively referred to as "odd-number patterns", and "Pattern 2", "Pattern 4", "Pattern 6", and "Pattern 8" may be collectively referred to as "even-number patterns".

[0027] Each of the sub-display units 82 is not only provided for displaying performance images related to the performance, but is also configured to be movable. The initial positions of the sub-display units are as follows: the upper sub-display unit 82a is above the main display unit 81; the left sub-display unit 82b is to the left of the main display unit 81; and the right sub-display unit 82c is to the right of the main display unit 81. Each sub-display unit 82 is configured to be movable from these initial positions until the entire display area of ​​the sub-display unit 82 overlaps with the display area of ​​the main display unit 81. However, even in the initial positions shown in Figure 4, approximately the upper half of the display area (the left display area 821 and the right display area 822, described later) of the sub-display units 82 (especially the left sub-display unit 82b and the right sub-display unit 82c) is visible to the player.

[0028] Multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are arranged on the lower right side of the main display unit 81. These LEDs constitute the display area of ​​the pattern display device 90, which displays special patterns and regular patterns. Furthermore, the symbol display device 90 is positioned in a location that is less visible to the player than the main display unit 81, and the display area of ​​the symbol display device 90 is smaller than the display area of ​​the main display unit 81. In this embodiment, the arrangement and number of LEDs in the pattern display device 90 are as shown in Figure 2, but this is just one example, and the arrangement and number of LEDs in the pattern display device 90 are not limited to this example.

[0029] Special symbols are symbols that are displayed when stopped as a result of a symbol change that determines whether or not to activate a special electric mechanism (for example, a special electric mechanism 65). In this embodiment, special symbols include a first special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 91 and a second special symbol displayed on the second special symbol display device 92. Special symbols are sometimes abbreviated as "Special Symbol," the first special symbol as "Special Symbol 1," and the second special symbol as "Special Symbol 2."

[0030] A normal symbol is a symbol that is displayed when stopped as a result of a symbol variation that determines whether or not to activate a normal electric mechanism (for example, a normal electric mechanism 61). In this embodiment, the normal symbols are displayed on the normal symbol display device 93. In addition, regular symbols are sometimes abbreviated as "regular symbols," and regular electric mechanisms are sometimes referred to as "electric chute."

[0031] In addition to the display device described above, the symbol display device 90 is also equipped with a first special symbol hold lamp 94, a second special symbol hold lamp 95, and a regular symbol hold lamp 96. The first special symbol hold lamp 94 can identify the number of symbol changes related to the held special symbol 1, the second special symbol hold lamp 95 can identify the number of symbol changes related to the held special symbol 2, and the normal symbol hold lamp 96 can identify the number of symbol changes of the held normal symbol. In each case, the number of corresponding symbol changes can be identified by the lighting patterns of the two LEDs (in this embodiment, right LED always lit = 1, left and right LEDs always lit = 2, right LED flashing + left LED always lit = 3, left and right LEDs flashing = 4).

[0032] In the following explanation, a symbol variation in which a special symbol is displayed in a variable state on the first special symbol display device 91 or the second special symbol display device 92 and then stopped will be referred to as a "special symbol variation," and in the following explanation, a symbol variation in which a normal symbol is displayed in a variable state on the normal symbol display device 93 and then stopped will be referred to as a "normal symbol variation." Furthermore, in the following explanation, the display of the changing patterns (decorative patterns) shown in the main display unit 81 mentioned above may be referred to as "decorative pattern changes" to distinguish them from "special pattern changes" and "regular pattern changes." In the following explanation, when the term "symbol variation" is used, it refers to the variation of the special symbols unless otherwise specified.

[0033] As shown in Figure 4, numerous obstacles such as game pins (not shown), windmills 52, and decorative members are arranged on the front of the game board 50, thereby defining the game area 50a so that the launched game balls roll along it. Furthermore, curved outer rails 51 and inner rails 53 are positioned on the left and upper sides of the game area 50a to guide the game balls, launched by the rotation of the operating handle 31, to the upper part of the game area 50a. The outer rail 51 is located outside the inner rail 53 with respect to the center of the game area 50a. Here, the windmill 52 is a mechanism for changing the direction of the game ball's fall, and is nail-shaped.

[0034] The gaming machine 10 allows the player to adjust the strength of the ball launch by changing the amount of rotation (for example, the rotation angle) of the operating handle 31. Various obstacles are arranged in the gaming area 50a so that the balls roll along either a first channel X (so-called left-handed play) where the balls are launched weaker, or a second channel Y (so-called right-handed play) where the balls are launched stronger.

[0035] Figure 4 illustrates the main prize-winning openings, including the Grand Prize Opening 55, the First Starting Opening 57, the Second Starting Opening 59, Gate 63, and the General Prize-Winning Opening 67. However, the prize-winning openings shown are just an example, and their number and arrangement may be changed as appropriate.

[0036] The large prize slot 55 is located in the lower right of the game area 50a. The large prize slot 55 is equipped with a large prize slot sensor 72, and a prize is determined by the detection result of the large prize slot sensor 72, and a number of prize balls (15 in this embodiment) associated with the large prize slot 55 are awarded. In this embodiment, the obstacles are arranged such that more game balls roll towards the large prize opening 55 when rolling from the second channel Y compared to when rolling from the first channel X.

[0037] A special electric mechanism 65 is installed above the large prize opening 55. The special electric mechanism 65 is a component that can switch between an open state, which makes it easy for balls to enter the large prize opening 55, and a closed state, which makes it difficult for balls to enter. The special electric mechanism solenoid 66 switches between the open state and the closed state. More specifically, the special electric mechanism 65 opens during a portion of a jackpot game initiated when a jackpot is determined by the special symbol win / failure determination described later, or during a portion of a minor win game initiated when a minor win is determined by the special symbol win / failure determination, thereby allowing balls to enter the large prize pocket 55. Thus, when the special electric mechanism 65 is open, it becomes easier for balls to enter the large prize pocket 55, and jackpot games and minor win games in which the opportunity to win prize balls is greatly increased can be said to be advantageous game states. Furthermore, as will be described in detail later, minor win games in this embodiment can generate jackpot games. In a jackpot game, the special electric mechanism 65 is alternately set to an open state and a closed state. One open state (sometimes referred to as a "round game," and the total number of round games that occur in one jackpot may be referred to as the "number of rounds") ends when a predetermined number of game balls (10 in this embodiment) enter the large prize pocket 55, and the special electric mechanism 65 closes. Furthermore, one open state in a jackpot game also ends when a sufficient amount of time (30 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed for a predetermined number of game balls to enter the large prize pocket 55. On the other hand, in a minor win game, the game ends when the special electric mechanism 65 remains open for 1.8 seconds, or when 10 game balls enter the large prize slot 55. Therefore, in a minor win game, it is less likely for game balls to enter the large prize slot 55 compared to a major win game. In this embodiment, when a jackpot game or a minor jackpot game begins, a start demo is set that ends after a set amount of time. Upon completion of the start demo, a round game (or a minor jackpot game in the case of a minor jackpot) begins, and when all round games have finished, an end demo is set that ends after a set amount of time. In other words, in this embodiment, a jackpot game (including those that occur during a minor jackpot game) consists of a start demo, a round game, and an end demo, and the jackpot game progresses in this order.

[0038] The first start opening 57 is located in the lower center of the game area 50a. The first start opening 57 is equipped with a first start opening sensor 70, and a prize is awarded based on the detection result of the first start opening sensor 70, with a number of prize balls (4 in this embodiment) associated with the first start opening 57 being awarded. In at least some cases when a prize is determined to have been awarded to the first start opening 57, a symbol change related to special figure 1 will occur. In this embodiment, the game area 50a is configured such that, compared to when the game balls roll from the second channel Y, more game balls roll towards the first starting opening 57 when they roll from the first channel X. Obstacles such as game pins are arranged accordingly.

[0039] The second starting port 59 is located in the lower right of the game area 50a. The second starting port 59 is equipped with a second starting port sensor 71, and based on the detection result of the second starting port sensor 71, it is determined that a ball has entered the second starting port 59, and a number of prize balls (1 in this embodiment) associated with the second starting port 59 are awarded. In at least some cases where a win is determined in the second starting gate 59, a symbol change related to special figure 2 will occur. In this embodiment, the game area 50a is configured such that, compared to when the game balls roll from the first channel X, more game balls roll towards the second starting opening 59 when they roll from the second channel Y, with obstacles such as game pins arranged accordingly.

[0040] A standard electric mechanism 61 is installed in the flow path connected to the second starting port 59. The standard electric mechanism 61 is a component that can switch between an open state, which facilitates the entry of game balls into the second starting port 59, and a closed state, which makes it difficult for game balls to enter. The standard electric mechanism solenoid 62 switches between the open state and the closed state. More specifically, the standard electric mechanism 61 opens when the result of the standard symbol win / loss determination described later is a standard symbol win (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "standard symbol win"), and as a result, entry into the second start opening 59 is permitted. In this way, when the standard electric mechanism 61 is open, entry into the second start opening 59 is possible, so the number of game balls can be reduced by prize balls, while the opportunities for the symbol changes related to special symbol 2 to be executed can be greatly increased.

[0041] Gate 63 is located in the right-center of the game area 50a. Gate 63 is equipped with a gate sensor 74, and a win in gate 63 is determined by the detection result of the gate sensor 74. In at least some cases when a win in gate 63 is determined, the symbols on the regular display will change.

[0042] The general prize slot 67 is located in the lower left of the game area 50a. The general prize slot 67 is equipped with a general prize slot sensor 73, and a prize is awarded to the general prize slot 67 based on the detection result of the general prize slot sensor 73, according to the number of prize balls associated with the general prize slot 67 (4 in this embodiment). In this embodiment, the obstacles are arranged so that more game balls roll towards the general prize opening 67 when rolling from the first channel X compared to when rolling from the second channel Y. However, the obstacles may also be arranged so that more game balls roll towards the general prize opening 67 when rolling from the second channel Y. Furthermore, multiple general prize openings 67 may be provided.

[0043] The out-out opening 69 is located at the bottom of the game area 50a. Game balls that are hit into the game area 50a and do not enter any of the aforementioned prize-winning openings fall into the out-out opening 69 and are treated as out balls. In this embodiment, an out ball sensor 75 (not shown) is provided for detecting out balls, which are game balls that have entered the prize entry and out exit 69.

[0044] In addition to the sensors mentioned above, the game board 50 is also equipped with a magnetic detection sensor for detecting magnetism and a radio wave detection sensor for detecting radio waves (neither of which are shown in the diagram) to prevent fraudulent activities such as receiving prize balls illegally.

[0045] As shown in Figure 5, the back of the game board 50 is fitted with a main control board case 109 housing the main control board 100, a first sub-control board case 209 housing the first sub-control board 200, a second sub-control board case 309 housing the second sub-control board 300, a power supply control board case 509 housing the power supply control board 500, and a payout control board case 409 housing the payout control board 400. In addition to the backs of the first sub-control board case 209 and the second sub-control board case 309, an opening / closing cover 45 is detachably attached to cover a portion of the back of the main control board case 109. Furthermore, the main control board 100 is provided with a RAM clear switch 43. Furthermore, the circuit board cases and covers that enclose each circuit board are made of transparent materials, allowing the corresponding circuit board to be seen through each case and cover.

[0046] Furthermore, on the back of the game board 50, above the opening / closing cover 45, is a game ball tank 46 where game balls supplied from the game island's ball supply equipment are stored. The game ball tank 46 is further connected to a payout passage 49 that leads to an upper ball tray 27 via a tank rail 47 and a payout unit 48. Balls dispensed by the payout unit 48 are dispensed to the upper ball tray 27 through the payout passage 49.

[0047] Up to this point, the structure of the gaming machine 10 in this embodiment has been described, but these are just examples, and the present invention can also be implemented with other configurations.

[0048] <Regarding the control configuration of the gaming machine 10> Next, the control configuration of the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment will be explained using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the gaming machine 10. Note that the control configuration shown in Figure 6 is necessary for explaining the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, and the gaming machine 10 may also have control configurations not shown in Figure 6.

[0049] The main control board 100 includes a CPU 101 that performs various calculations related to the game, a ROM 102 that stores data such as control programs and various lottery tables, a RAM 103 that functions as a work area for temporary storage and buffer memory, an I / O port 104 that inputs and outputs signals to and from peripheral boards and various devices, and a random number circuit 105 that generates random numbers (hardware random numbers) operating on a separate system from the program processing by the CPU 101, and these are all interconnected via an internal bus.

[0050] The CPU 101 reads various control programs stored in the ROM 102 and performs calculations to execute various processes related to the main control of the game. RAM103 is backed up by a backup power supply generated by the backup power supply circuit described later. Specifically, among the information stored in RAM103, various information is backed up so that when power is restored after a power outage (when power is turned on), the gaming machine 10 can be restored to the state it was in immediately before the power outage. For example, in addition to data such as the stack pointer and each register that was held when the power outage occurred, information related to the game, such as the state of the gaming machine 10 at that time (game stopped state or playable state) and the current normal symbol lottery state, is backed up. This information is cleared (initialized) by the RAM clear process described later. Therefore, after the RAM is cleared, the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA (normal symbol low probability described later) will be newly set. Furthermore, when the RAM clear process is executed, the symbol sequence related to decorative symbols will be displayed in a stopped state with the initial symbol combination, and the initial symbol combination will also be displayed in a stopped state if the RAM clear process is not executed when power is turned on and the symbol variation was not being executed at the time of the previous power outage. Furthermore, this initial symbol combination is only displayed when the power is turned on, and is not displayed when the symbols change.

[0051] In this embodiment, at least the area where information related to such games is stored (sometimes referred to as the game-related area of ​​RAM 103) is backed up, as well as the area where the checksum complement and backup flag related to the game-related area of ​​RAM 103 are stored (sometimes referred to as the backup information area related to games of RAM 103). When power is restored, the gaming machine 10 recovers using the various information stored in the backed-up game-related area of ​​RAM 103 and the backup information area related to games of RAM 103. Furthermore, there are no limitations on the specific backup method in this embodiment. For example, the area of ​​RAM 103 to be backed up may be implemented in a configuration that can retain data non-volatilely even when the power is off. As another example, different hardware may be provided for the first memory, which is configured to retain data non-volatilely even when the power is off, and the second memory, which is referenced when the gaming machine 10 is operating. In that case, the gaming machine 10 can save the information to be backed up from the second memory to the first memory when the power is off, and recover the saved information from the first memory to the second memory when the power is restored.

[0052] Furthermore, the main control board 100 is electrically connected to the first start port sensor 70, the second start port sensor 71, the big prize port sensor 72, the general prize port sensor 73, the gate sensor 74, the out ball sensor 75, the middle frame door open sensor 76, the front frame door open sensor 77, etc., and is configured to allow detection signals from these sensors to be input to the CPU 101 via the I / O port 104. Although not shown in the diagram, in addition to these sensors, the main control board 100 is also electrically connected to the full tank detection sensor, the magnetic detection sensor, and the radio wave detection sensor, and is configured to allow detection signals from these sensors to be input to the CPU 101 via the I / O port 104.

[0053] Furthermore, the main control board 100 is electrically connected to the first special symbol display device 91, the second special symbol display device 92, the normal symbol display device 93, the first special symbol hold lamp 94, the second special symbol hold lamp 95, the normal symbol hold lamp 96, the normal electric mechanism solenoid 62, and the special electric mechanism solenoid 66, and is configured to be controllable via the I / O port 104. Similarly, the main control board 100 is electrically connected to the main operation unit 39 and the RAM clear switch 43, and is configured to detect operations performed by the main operation unit 39.

[0054] The main control board 100 and the first sub-control board 200 are connected by eight parallel signal lines and one strobe line, and are connected in a single direction only, from the main control board 100 to the first sub-control board 200, allowing various performance control commands to be transmitted from the main control board 100 to the first sub-control board 200. Furthermore, the first sub-control board 200 cannot transmit data to the main control board 100, and the first sub-control board 200 is configured not to be able to request data transmission from the main control board 100. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a parallel transmission method is used for data transmission from the main control board 100 to the first sub-control board 200, but a serial transmission method may also be used.

[0055] The first sub-control board 200 includes a CPU 201 that performs various calculations related to game effects based on effect control commands from the main control board 100, a ROM 202 that stores data such as effect control programs and various lottery tables, a RAM 203 that functions as a work area and buffer memory for temporary storage, and I / O ports 204 that input and output signals to and from peripheral boards and various devices. These are interconnected via an internal bus, and the CPU 201 is configured to execute major controls related to game effects according to the control program stored in the ROM 202. The first sub-control board 200 is electrically connected to the performance button 37 and the cursor button 38, and is configured to detect the operation of the said control unit.

[0056] Furthermore, the first sub-control board 200 generates image control commands that instruct the second sub-control board 300 to display images, audio control commands that instruct the audio control board 310 to output audio, lamp control data for controlling the lighting of various lamps such as the frame lamp 35, and movement control data for controlling the movement of the movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82, etc., in the performance control processing based on performance control commands from the main control board 100. Here, the first sub-control board 200 is connected to the second sub-control board 300 and the voice control board 310 so as to be able to communicate bidirectionally. Each control command (image control command, voice control command) is transmitted from the first sub-control board 200 to the second sub-control board 300 or the voice control board 310, while in response, an acknowledgment command (ACK command) indicating that the control command has been successfully received is transmitted from each control board (second sub-control board 300, voice control board 310) to the first sub-control board 200.

[0057] Furthermore, the first sub-control board 200 is electrically connected to the frame lamp 35 and transmits lamp control data via the I / O port 204. The frame lamp 35 is configured to be controlled to light up by the lamp control data transmitted from the first sub-control board 200. Furthermore, the first sub-control board 200 is electrically connected to the movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82, and transmits movement control data via the I / O port 204. The movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82 are configured so that their movement is controlled by the movement control data transmitted from the first sub-control board 200.

[0058] The second sub-control board 300, although not shown in the figures, includes a CPU that performs various calculations related to image rendering based on image control commands from the first sub-control board 200, a ROM that stores image control programs and various data, a RAM that functions as a work area and buffer memory for temporary storage, and I / O ports that input and output signals to and from peripheral boards and various devices. The CPU is configured to execute the main controls related to image rendering according to the control program stored in the ROM. Furthermore, the second sub-control board 300 is equipped with a VDP that generates image data in accordance with the content of the performance determined by the performance content determination means 225 (described later) based on control signals received from the CPU, and a sound source IC that generates sound data in accordance with the content of the performance based on control signals received from the CPU. The VDP is a so-called image processor that reads image data stored in the image ROM in response to instructions from the CPU, processes it, and transmits the generated image data to the main display unit 81 and the sub-display unit 82. In addition, a high-speed VRAM used for expanding and processing the image data read from the image ROM is connected to this VDP.

[0059] The voice control board 310 includes a CPU 311 that performs various calculations related to voice effects based on voice control commands from the first sub-control board 200, a ROM 312 that stores voice control programs and voice data, a RAM 313 that functions as a work area and buffer memory for temporary storage, and I / O ports 314 that input and output signals to and from peripheral boards and various devices. The CPU 311 is configured to execute the main controls related to voice effects according to the control program stored in the ROM 312. Therefore, the voice control board 310 can read the voice data stored in the ROM 312 in response to voice control commands received from the first sub-control board 200, synthesize the read voice data, transmit the final synthesized voice data to the speaker 33 via an amplifier, and output sound to the speaker 33.

[0060] The dispensing control board 400 is mainly composed of a CPU, ROM, and RAM (none of which are shown in the illustration). Furthermore, the payout control board 400 is connected to the main control board 100 in a bidirectional manner, and controls the payout unit 48 to dispense game balls based on payout control commands from the main control board 100, and also controls the launch of game balls by synchronously driving the ball feeding mechanism and the launching mechanism based on the amount of operation of the operating handle 31.

[0061] The power control board 500 consists of a normal power supply circuit 501 that generates a normal power supply to the control board and other electronic and electrical components based on the primary power supply from the power supply equipment of the gaming island, a backup power supply circuit 502 that generates a backup power supply, and a power interruption detection circuit 503 that detects a power interruption (when the voltage supplied by the normal power supply drops to a predetermined voltage). Furthermore, a power switch 40 is connected to the power control board 500. Assuming that primary power is supplied from the power supply equipment of the gaming island, when the power switch 40 is turned ON, normal power is generated by the normal power circuit 501 of the power control board 500, and power is supplied to the electronic and electrical components, including the control boards mentioned above (main control board 100, first sub-control board 200, second sub-control board 300, and payout control board 400). Furthermore, when a power outage is detected by the power outage detection circuit 503, the power control board 500 transmits a power outage signal (NMI signal) to the main control board 100, the first sub-control board 200, and the payout control board 400, respectively. Furthermore, the backup power supply circuit 502 is designed to be charged when power is supplied to the gaming machine 10 from the power supply equipment of the gaming island. The backup power supply circuit 502 may be provided on the dispensing control board 400, and the power outage detection circuit 503 may not be provided on the power supply control board 500, but rather on the main control board 100, the first sub-control board 200, and the dispensing control board 400.

[0062] <Regarding the functional configuration of the gaming machine 10> Next, the functional configuration of the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment will be explained using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the gaming machine 10. Note that the functional configuration shown in Figure 7 is necessary for explaining the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, and the gaming machine 10 may also have functional configurations not shown in Figure 7. Furthermore, when explaining the functional configuration, Figures 8 and 9 will be referred to as needed.

[0063] As shown in Figure 7, the main control board 100 includes a ball entry determination means 110, a main random number generation means 115, a main hold control means 120, a pre-determination means 125, a special symbol lottery means 130, a regular symbol lottery means 135, a jackpot game control means 140, a symbol display control means 145, an electric mechanism control means 150, a game state control means 155, a main information storage means 160, a main error control means 165, a main command management means 170, a power restoration processing execution means 175, and a power interruption processing execution means 180. These means functionally represent what is realized by each control configuration on the main control board 100 as explained with reference to Figure 6.

[0064] First, the main information storage means 160 is a means for temporarily storing data read by means of the main control board 100, and data derived by calculations performed by said means, in corresponding storage areas. In particular, data (performance control commands) stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160 is transmitted by the command transmission means to the subcommand management means 270 of the first sub-control board 200, which will be described later.

[0065] The ball entry determination means 110 determines whether a ball has entered each prize slot based on the detection results of sensors installed at each prize slot. Furthermore, when the ball entry determination means 110 determines that a game ball has entered a prize slot, such as the large prize slot sensor 72, it generates a performance control command (prize entry command) that includes information that can identify the type of sensor involved in the prize entry, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0066] The main random number generation means 115 is capable of generating multiple types of random numbers with different update ranges using the random number circuit 105, and when it is determined that a prize has been won in a prize slot, it retrieves (latches) one or more random numbers corresponding to that prize slot from the random number circuit 105. More specifically, if the main random number generation means 115 determines that a prize has been won in the first starting gate 57 or the second starting gate 59, it acquires random numbers for determining whether a special symbol is successful, random numbers for drawing special symbol stop symbols, and random numbers for drawing special symbol variation patterns, as described later. If a prize has been won in the gate 63, it stores the random numbers for determining whether a regular symbol is successful, random numbers for drawing regular symbol stop symbols, and random numbers for drawing regular symbol variation patterns, as described later, in the corresponding storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Furthermore, the random number circuit 105 monitors whether the multiple types of random numbers it updates are being updated correctly. If an update error occurs where the random numbers are not updated correctly, information indicating that the error has occurred is written to a specific memory area of ​​the random number circuit 105. Therefore, the CPU 101 is able to detect that an update error has occurred in the random number circuit 105.

[0067] The main hold control means 120 controls the hold of symbol changes for special symbols and symbol changes for regular symbols. For special symbol 1, random numbers for determining whether the special symbol is successful, random numbers for drawing special symbol stop symbols, and random numbers for drawing special symbol change patterns, which are acquired when a ball enters the first start opening 57, are held (stored) as operation hold information for special symbol 1. More specifically, the main hold control means 120 includes a hold counter (hereinafter referred to as the "Figure 1 hold counter") which is incremented by 1 each time the operation hold information of Figure 1 is held, and decremented by 1 each time the operation hold information of Figure 1 is used (used in the lottery of the Figure 1 lottery means 130). The main information storage means 160 stores the operation hold information in the storage area corresponding to the current Figure 1 hold counter until the value of the Figure 1 hold counter reaches its upper limit (4 in this embodiment). Each time the operation hold information is used, the main information storage means 160 clears the used operation hold information and controls the remaining operation hold information to be moved (shifted) from the current storage area to the storage area corresponding to a Figure 1 hold counter that is 1 less than the current Figure 1 hold counter, in order from the smallest Figure 1 hold counter. Furthermore, the main hold control means 120 also performs the same control as described above for Figure 2 and the general figure, separately from Figure 1. The hold counter in Figure 2 is referred to as the Figure 2 hold counter, and the upper limit of the value of the Figure 2 hold counter in this embodiment is 4. Furthermore, in the following explanation, "holding of operation hold information" may be expressed as "holding of symbol change," or simply as "hold." Furthermore, when the main hold control means 120 updates (adds or subtracts) the operation hold information (hold counter) of Figure 1 or Figure 2, it generates a performance control command (hold command) that includes the Figure 1 hold counter and the Figure 2 hold counter, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. In this embodiment, if both the operation hold information corresponding to Figure 1 and the operation hold information corresponding to Figure 2 are held, a priority variation is performed in which the operation hold information corresponding to Figure 2 is used preferentially. However, instead of this priority variation, a prize-winning order variation may be adopted in which the operation hold information is used in the order in which it was held, regardless of whether it corresponds to Figure 1 or Figure 2, or a simultaneous variation may be adopted in which the operation hold information corresponding to Figure 1 and the operation hold information corresponding to Figure 2 are used simultaneously when both the operation hold information corresponding to Figure 1 and the operation hold information corresponding to Figure 2 are held.

[0068] The pre-determination means 125 performs a pre-determination for a pre-reading effect targeting the reserved operation information of the special feature when the reserved operation information of the special feature is reserved at a predetermined pre-determination timing, at least in some cases. More specifically, the pre-determination means 125 reads out each random number of the currently held operation hold information and performs pre-determinations for the special symbol win / failure determination, special symbol stop symbol lottery, and special symbol variation pattern lottery, which will be described later. In each pre-determination, the same or equivalent lottery table (not shown) as the lottery table used for the lottery corresponding to each pre-determination is used. Therefore, the results of these pre-determinations will be the same as the results of the lottery executed later. Furthermore, the pre-determination means 125 generates a performance control command (pre-determination command) that includes the derived pre-determination result, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. The pre-determination command is transmitted (generated and stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160) at least part of the predetermined pre-determination timing, and is therefore transmitted following the hold command described above. Here, the predetermined pre-determination timing is, for example, the timing when the operation hold information for the special figure is held. In this embodiment, if the operation hold information for special figure 1 is held during the normal figure high probability period described later, the pre-determination is restricted, and therefore the transmission of the pre-determination command corresponding to that pre-determination is also restricted. On the other hand, if the operation hold information for special figure 2 is held during the normal figure low probability period described later, the pre-determination may or may not be restricted.

[0069] The special symbol lottery means 130 comprises a special symbol win / failure determination means 131, a special symbol stop symbol lottery means 132, and a special symbol variation pattern derivation means 133, and executes processing by each means in the order of special symbol win / failure determination means 131, special symbol stop symbol lottery means 132, and special symbol variation pattern derivation means 133. When the conditions for starting the variation of the special symbol are met, the special symbol lottery means 130 reads the earliest operation hold information from the operation hold information held in the main information storage means 160. Furthermore, "the conditions for the start of the special symbol variation are met" means, as an example, that the player is not in a jackpot game, neither Special Symbol 1 nor Special Symbol 2 is currently performing a symbol variation (including the period during which the symbol variation related to Special Symbol 1 or Special Symbol 2 is stopped), and that there is operation hold information for at least one of Special Symbol 1 or Special Symbol 2.

[0070] Figures 8 and 9 schematically show the lottery table used in the main control board 100, and will be referred to as needed in the following explanation. In addition to these lottery tables, in lotteries using lottery tables, the lottery values ​​stored in the lottery table are sequentially added to the read random number in a predetermined order (if there is only one lottery value, the addition is performed once), and the result corresponding to the lottery value that resulted in a carry (overflow) is derived as the result of the lottery. Similarly, in the explanation of lottery tables, names are given to the lottery tables for the sake of explanation, but it is sufficient that the data such as lottery values ​​included in the lottery table corresponding to the name is stored in an identifiable manner in each ROM, and these names do not specify the area in which the data is stored. In the illustrated lottery tables, if there are items listed for the sake of explanation, or if "-" or "0" are listed as lottery values, these do not necessarily represent data stored in each ROM. Furthermore, it is not possible to win a result where "-" or "0" is listed as the lottery value. Moreover, if the same lottery value as the random number range used for the lottery (the number of random numbers that can be obtained within that range) is listed in the lottery table, that result will be derived 100% of the time, so it is not necessarily necessary to perform a lottery. Furthermore, if the sum of the random values ​​used in a single draw matches the range of random numbers used in the draw, a carry will always occur in the final addition of the random values, so that addition does not need to be performed, and in that case, the random values ​​used in that addition themselves become unnecessary.

[0071] The special symbol win / loss determination means 131 reads out a random number for special symbol win / loss determination for each symbol change, and performs special symbol win / loss determination by drawing lots using the read random number and a lottery table for special symbol win / loss determination to determine whether it will be a big win, a small win, or a loss. Figure 8(a) schematically shows the lottery table for determining whether a special symbol wins or losses. This lottery table differs between Special Symbol 1 and Special Symbol 2, and the range of random numbers used in these determinations is 0 to 65535. Therefore, in the special symbol win / loss determination for Special Symbol 1, a big win is determined with a probability of 205 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 320), and any other result is a loss, with no small wins. On the other hand, in the special symbol win / loss determination for Special Symbol 2, a big win is determined with a probability of 205 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 320), a small win is determined with a probability of 1820 / 65536 (approximately 1 / 36.0), and any other result is a loss. In this embodiment, as will be described later, a big win can occur via a minor win, so the probability of a big win being determined in the special symbol win / failure determination is set to the above-mentioned probability 1.

[0072] The special symbol stop symbol lottery means 132, when the result of the special symbol win / loss determination is a big win or a small win, determines the special symbol stop symbol by lottery using a random number for special symbol stop symbol lottery (in this embodiment, in the range of 0 to 999) and a lottery table for special symbol stop symbol lottery. Specifically, as shown in Figure 8(b), a schematic diagram illustrating the lottery table for determining the stopping symbols used when a jackpot is determined in the special symbol win / loss determination for special symbol 1, when a jackpot is determined in the special symbol win / loss determination for special symbol 1, symbol A is determined as the stopping symbol with a probability of 100 / 1000 (1 / 10), and symbol B is determined as the stopping symbol with a probability of 900 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.11). In this case, regardless of whether symbol A or symbol B is determined, after the jackpot game corresponding to these stopped symbols ends, the game enters the normal symbol high probability state described later. However, the number of symbol changes during which the normal symbol high probability state continues (hereinafter referred to as the "prescribed number of normal symbol high probability states") is 80 times if the jackpot game ends when symbol A is determined, and 40 times if the jackpot game ends when symbol B is determined. Furthermore, the number of rounds for the jackpot game corresponding to symbol A is 10, while the number of rounds for the jackpot game corresponding to symbol B is 4. Therefore, symbol A is more advantageous than symbol B in terms of both the number of rounds and the prescribed number of normal symbol high probability states.

[0073] As shown in Figure 8(c), a schematic diagram of the lottery table used for determining the stopping symbols when a minor win is determined in the special symbol win / loss determination related to special symbol 2, when a minor win is determined in the special symbol win / loss determination related to special symbol 2, symbol a is determined as the stopping symbol with a probability of 500 / 1000 (1 / 2), symbol b is determined with a probability of 300 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 3.33), and symbol c is determined with a probability of 200 / 1000 (1 / 5). Here, symbol a is a stopping symbol in which the number of rounds of the big win game that occurs in the small win game related to that symbol is 10, and after the big win game ends, it becomes a normal symbol high probability state, and the prescribed number of times for this normal symbol high probability state is 80. Symbol b is a stopping symbol in which the number of rounds of the big win game that occurs in the small win game related to that stopping symbol is 4, and after the big win game ends, it becomes a normal symbol high probability state, and the prescribed number of times for this normal symbol high probability state is 80. Symbol c is a stopping symbol in which the number of rounds of the big win game that occurs in the small win game related to that stopping symbol is 4, and after the big win game ends, it becomes a normal symbol low probability state (normal symbol high probability state is not set). Therefore, it can be said that symbol a is more advantageous than symbol b in terms of the number of rounds. Furthermore, it can be said that symbol a is more advantageous than symbol c in terms of both the prescribed number of times for normal symbol high probability state and the prescribed number of times for normal symbol high probability state. Furthermore, it can be said that symbol c is less advantageous than symbol b in terms of the number of rounds required for the normal high probability feature. Furthermore, when a jackpot occurs during a minor win, the number of rounds in that jackpot is calculated by treating the minor win as one round. In addition, in the following explanation, a jackpot occurring during a minor win related to symbol a may be referred to as a "jackpot related to symbol a," a jackpot occurring during a minor win related to symbol b may be referred to as a "jackpot related to symbol b," and a jackpot occurring during a minor win related to symbol c may be referred to as a "jackpot related to symbol c."

[0074] As shown in Figure 8(d), a schematic diagram of the lottery table for determining the stopping symbols used when a jackpot is determined in the special symbol win / loss determination for special symbol 2, when a jackpot is determined in the special symbol win / loss determination for special symbol 2, symbol d is determined as the stopping symbol with a probability of 1000 / 1000 (1 / 1). In particular, symbol d is a stopping symbol for which the number of rounds of the jackpot game corresponding to the stopping symbol is 10, and which becomes a normal symbol high probability after the end of the jackpot game, and the prescribed number of times for the normal symbol high probability is 80, which is the same as for the jackpot game related to symbol a.

[0075] Furthermore, if the result of the special symbol stop symbol lottery for special symbol 1 is a loss, the special symbol stop symbol lottery means 132 determines symbol C as the stop symbol, and if the result of the special symbol win / loss determination for special symbol 2 is a loss, it determines symbol e as the stop symbol.

[0076] Thus, in the embodiment described above, jackpot games that occur during the symbol variation related to Special Feature 2 tend to be more advantageous than jackpot games that occur during the symbol variation related to Special Feature 1. Therefore, the enjoyment of the game can be further enhanced by transitioning from the Special Feature Variation Pattern Derivation State PA (described later) to another Special Feature Variation Pattern Derivation State (Special Feature Variation Pattern Derivation State PB or Special Feature Variation Pattern Derivation State PC, described later).

[0077] The special symbol variation pattern derivation means 133 includes multiple types of special symbol variation pattern lottery tables that are referenced when determining the special symbol variation pattern. Based on the current special symbol variation pattern derivation state and the result of the special symbol win / failure determination, it selects one special symbol variation pattern lottery table to determine the special symbol variation pattern for the current time. Using the selected special symbol variation pattern lottery table and random numbers for special symbol variation pattern lottery, it determines one special symbol variation pattern, and determines the variation time based on the determined special symbol variation pattern. Here, variation time refers to the time from when the variation of the symbols related to the special symbol (special symbol 1 or special symbol 2) begins until the variation of the symbols ends. Details of the transition conditions will be described later, but in this embodiment, there are three special figure variation pattern derivation states: special figure variation pattern derivation state PA, special figure variation pattern derivation state PB, and special figure variation pattern derivation state PC. The method for determining the special figure variation pattern described above is used for the pattern variation related to special figure 1 in special figure variation pattern derivation state PA, and for the pattern variation related to special figure 2 in special figure variation pattern derivation state PB and special figure variation pattern derivation state PC. On the other hand, in the symbol variation of the other special symbol (the special symbol to which the above-described method for determining the special symbol variation pattern is adopted) in each special symbol variation pattern derivation state, one predetermined special symbol variation pattern is determined according to the result of the special symbol win / failure judgment. In particular, in this embodiment, in the symbol variation of special symbol 2 in special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA, if the result of the special symbol win / failure judgment related to the symbol variation is a miss, and if the result of the special symbol win / failure judgment related to the symbol variation is a jackpot, a variation pattern with a variation time of 1000ms is determined. In the symbol variation of special symbol 1 in special symbol variation pattern derivation state PB or special symbol variation pattern derivation state PC, if the result of the special symbol win / failure judgment related to the symbol variation is a miss, and if the result of the special symbol win / failure judgment related to the symbol variation is a jackpot, a variation pattern with a variation time of 2000ms is determined. If the result of the special symbol win / failure judgment for the symbol variation is a miss, a variation pattern with a variation time of 2000ms is determined (the same applies in the case of a minor win).

[0078] Figure 9(a) schematically shows the special symbol variation pattern lottery table used for symbol variation related to special symbol 1 when special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA is activated, and the range of random numbers used in this lottery is 0 to 999. As shown in Figure 9(a), in the symbol variation related to Special Feature 1 when the Special Feature variation pattern derivation state PA is reached, the Special Feature variation patterns HNP to Special Feature variation patterns ASP-C can be determined. Specifically, if the result of the special symbol win / loss judgment is a loss during the symbol variation related to special symbol 1 in the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA, there is a 900 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.11) probability of special symbol variation pattern HNP, a 52 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 19.2) probability of special symbol variation pattern HRP, a 13 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 76.9) probability of special symbol variation pattern HSP1-A, and an 11 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 90.9) probability of special symbol variation pattern HS For P1-B, there is a 9 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 111) probability that special symbol variation pattern HSP2-A will be determined, a 7 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 143) probability that special symbol variation pattern HSP2-B will be determined, a 5 / 1000 (1 / 200) probability that special symbol variation pattern HSP3-A will be determined, and a 3 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 333) probability that special symbol variation pattern HSP3-B will be determined. In these cases, special symbol variation patterns ASP1-A to ASP-C will not be determined. Further details will be described later using Figure 9(b), but if special symbol variation pattern HNP is determined, the special symbol variation pattern is further identified using the value of the special symbol 1 reserve counter at the start of the current symbol variation. On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol win / loss judgment in the symbol variation related to special symbol 1 during the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA is a jackpot, then there is a probability of 90 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 11.1) that it will be special symbol variation pattern ASP1-A, a probability of 110 / 1000 (approximately 1 / approximately 9.09) that it will be special symbol variation pattern ASP1-B, a probability of 135 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 7.41) that it will be special symbol variation pattern ASP2-A, and a probability of 165 / 1000 (approximately 1 / approximately 6 There is a probability of 0.06) that special pattern variation ASP2-B will be determined, a probability of 180 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 5.56) that special pattern variation ASP3-A will be determined, a probability of 220 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 4.56) that special pattern variation ASP3-B will be determined, and a probability of 100 / 1000 (1 / 10) that special pattern variation pattern ASP-C will be determined. In these cases, special pattern variation patterns HNP to HSP3-B will not be determined. Thus, in this embodiment, if the result of the special symbol win / loss judgment in the symbol variation related to special symbol 1 during the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA is a loss, one of the special symbol variation patterns HRP to HSP3-B is determined at a rate of 100 / 1000 (1 / 10), and special symbol variation pattern HNP is determined at a rate of 900 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.11). Furthermore, if the result of the special symbol win / loss judgment in the symbol variation related to special symbol 1 during the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA is a jackpot, one of the special symbol variation patterns ASP1-A to ASP-C is determined at a rate of 1000 / 1000 (1 / 1). In the description of the special symbol variation patterns of this embodiment, when two special symbol variation patterns are described separated by a "~", the description of the special symbol variation pattern that lies between the special symbol variation pattern described earlier and the special symbol variation pattern described later is omitted, in accordance with the order described in the drawing relating to the special symbol variation pattern lottery table for each special symbol variation pattern derivation state. Furthermore, in the description of the special symbol variation patterns of this embodiment, if the names of the special symbol variation patterns are different, regardless of whether the corresponding variation time is described or not, it means that different special symbol variation patterns are different.

[0079] Figure 9(b) schematically shows the special symbol variation pattern lottery table used when the special symbol variation pattern HNP is determined in the symbol variation related to special symbol 1 during the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA. The range of the random numbers used in this lottery (which are different from the random numbers used in the lottery related to the special symbol variation pattern lottery table shown in Figure 9(a)) is 0 to 999. As shown in Figure 9(b), the special symbol variation patterns HNP that can be determined in the symbol variation related to special symbol 1 when the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA include special symbol variation pattern HNP-A with a variation time of 3200 ms (milliseconds), special symbol variation pattern HNP-B with a variation time of 5600 ms, special symbol variation pattern HNP-C with a variation time of 8000 ms, and special symbol variation pattern HNP-D with a variation time of 11200 ms, with the variation time increasing in this order. Specifically, if the Special Symbol 1 Reserve Counter = 3 at the start of the symbol change, Special Symbol Change Pattern HNP-A is determined with a probability of 1000 / 1000 (1 / 1). Similarly, if the Special Symbol 1 Reserve Counter = 2 at the start of the symbol change, Special Symbol Change Pattern HNP-A is determined with a probability of 150 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 6.67), and Special Symbol Change Pattern HNP-B is determined with a probability of 850 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.18). If the Special Symbol 1 Reserve Counter = 1 at the start of the symbol change, Special Symbol Change Pattern HNP-A is determined with a probability of 50 / 1000 (1 / 20), and Special Symbol Change Pattern HNP-B is determined with a probability of 150 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 6.67). The special symbol variation pattern HNP-B is determined by probability, and the special symbol variation pattern HNP-C is determined by probability of 800 / 1000 (1 / 1.25). If the special symbol 1 reserve counter = 0 at the start of the current symbol variation, the special symbol variation pattern HNP-B is determined by probability of 50 / 1000 (1 / 20), the special symbol variation pattern HNP-C is determined by probability of 100 / 1000 (1 / 10), and the special symbol variation pattern HNP-D is determined by probability of 850 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.18). In the following explanation, if the value of the special symbol reserve counter being referenced is 3, it will be referred to as "Reserve 3", if the value of the special symbol reserve counter is 2, it will be referred to as "Reserve 2", if the value of the special symbol reserve counter is 1, it will be referred to as "Reserve 1", and if the value of the special symbol reserve counter is 0, it will be referred to as "Reserve 0". Thus, when the special symbol variation pattern HNP is determined in the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA, the special symbol variation pattern (variation time) that is likely to be determined differs depending on the value of the special symbol 1 reserve counter at the start of the current symbol variation. More specifically, the smaller the value of the special symbol 1 reserve counter at the start of the current symbol variation, the more likely a special symbol variation pattern with a longer variation time is to be determined (the larger the value of the special symbol 1 reserve counter at the start of the current symbol variation, the more likely a shorter variation time is to be determined). Furthermore, such special feature variation patterns HNP (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "basic special feature variation patterns") also exist in special feature variation pattern derivation states PB and PC. In these special feature variation pattern derivation states, the referenced hold counter differs from that in special feature variation pattern derivation state PA, and in both cases, the value of the special feature 2 hold counter is referenced.

[0080] Furthermore, the special symbol variation pattern derivation means 133 generates a performance control command (variation start command) that includes the determined stopping symbol of the special symbol and the determined special symbol variation pattern, based on the result of the special symbol win / loss determination, at the start of the symbol variation, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0081] The regular symbol lottery means 135, similar to the special symbol lottery means 130, reads the earliest operational pending information from the operational pending information held in the main information storage means 160 when the regular symbol is not changing, and uses the read random number to perform a regular symbol win / failure determination to determine whether the regular symbol is a winner or loser. Based on the result of the regular symbol win / failure determination and information such as the current special symbol variation pattern derivation state, it determines various parameters related to the regular symbol (regular symbol variation time, regular symbol stop display time, etc.). In the determination of whether the regular drawing wins or losses occurs, there are two states: one where the regular drawing state is high probability (sometimes abbreviated as "high regular drawing probability") and one where the regular drawing state is low probability (sometimes abbreviated as "low regular drawing probability"). The lottery table is not shown in this embodiment, but in the high regular drawing probability state, there is a 65535 / 65536 chance of winning the regular drawing and a 1 / 65536 chance of losing. In the low regular drawing probability state, there is a 1 / 65536 chance of winning the regular drawing and a 65535 / 65536 chance of losing. It is also possible to make it so that there is no regular drawing win in the low regular drawing probability state (a 65536 / 65536 chance of losing).

[0082] The jackpot game control means 140 generates a performance control command (start demo command) containing information related to the jackpot game (the duration of the start demo, the number of rounds, and the subsequent special symbol variation pattern derivation state) at the start of the jackpot game and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. At the end of the start demo, it generates a performance control command (round start command) and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Furthermore, at the end of the round game, it generates a performance control command (end demo command) containing the duration of the end demo of the jackpot game and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Furthermore, these commands are also applicable to jackpot games triggered by minor win games. Specifically, the jackpot game control means 140 generates a start demo command at the start of a minor win game and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. At the end of the start demo, it generates a round start command and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160, and generates an end demo command and stores it in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0083] Furthermore, the jackpot game control means 140 starts a minor win game if the result of the special symbol win / loss determination is a minor win, and if the game ball passes through the V-entry area (not shown) provided in the major prize opening 55 during the minor win game, it enables the start of the jackpot game corresponding to the minor win after the minor win game ends. Therefore, in this embodiment, the minor win game functions to generate a jackpot game. However, if the game ball does not pass through the V-entry area during the minor win game, the jackpot game will not start after the minor win game ends.

[0084] The symbol display control means 145 causes special symbol 1 to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 91 in accordance with the variation time corresponding to the determined special symbol variation pattern of special symbol 1, and after the variation time has elapsed, special symbol 1 is stopped and displayed with the stop symbol determined by the special symbol stop symbol lottery. Similarly, special symbol 2 is displayed on the second special symbol display device 92 in accordance with the variation time corresponding to the determined special symbol variation pattern of special symbol 2, and after the variation time has elapsed, special symbol 2 is stopped and displayed with the stop symbol determined by the special symbol stop symbol lottery. Here, the stop display time (interval) for symbol changes related to special symbols refers to the time from when a special symbol is stopped until the symbol changes of the next special symbol can begin (if the result of the special symbol win / fail judgment is a loss), or the time from when the symbol changes of a special symbol end until a big win game or a small win game begins (if the result of the regular symbol win / fail judgment is a regular symbol win). In this embodiment, the stop display time for symbol changes related to special symbols is uniformly 300ms, regardless of the type of special symbol or the result of the special symbol win / fail judgment. Furthermore, the symbol display control means 145 has a special symbol game timer for managing the time (variation time, stop display time) related to the display of special symbol 1 and special symbol 2, and when the special symbol is stopped (at the timing when the value of the special symbol game timer becomes "0"), it generates a performance control command (variation stop command) to request a confirmed stop display of the decorative symbol, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Here, the confirmed stop display of a decorative symbol refers to the final stop display of a decorative symbol during a symbol variation, and is different from the temporary stop display of a decorative symbol that may occur during the execution of a symbol variation. Furthermore, in the case of a temporary stop display of a decorative symbol, for example, the stopped decorative symbol may shake up and down in small increments (so-called shaking variation), whereas in the case of a confirmed stop display of a decorative symbol, the stopped decorative symbol may not shake. In other words, even if the same decorative symbol is displayed as stopped, the manner of the stop display of a confirmed stop display and the manner of the stop display of a temporary stop display are different. Therefore, players can recognize whether the stop display of a decorative symbol is a confirmed stop display or a temporary stop display.

[0085] Furthermore, the pattern display control means 145 causes the regular pattern to be displayed on the regular pattern display device 93 in a variable state according to the variable state variation time corresponding to the determined regular pattern variation pattern, and after the variable state time has elapsed, the regular pattern is stopped and displayed with the determined stop pattern. The symbol display control means 145 has a symbol game timer for managing the time related to the symbol (symbol variation time, symbol stop display time, etc.).

[0086] The electric mechanism control means 150 outputs a control signal to the special electric mechanism solenoid 66 during the aforementioned big win game and small win game, causing the special electric mechanism 65 to open according to the opening pattern corresponding to the stopping symbol of the special feature.

[0087] The game state control means 155 controls the normal symbol lottery state. Specifically, at the start of a jackpot game, the game state control means 155 sets the normal symbol to low probability regardless of the stopping symbols of the special symbols related to the jackpot game. When prescribed conditions such as the end of a jackpot game are met, the normal symbol is set to high probability until a prescribed number of symbol changes related to the normal symbol high probability are performed, and then sets the normal symbol to low probability when the prescribed number of symbol changes related to the normal symbol high probability have finished. Here, as will be described later, in this embodiment, the number of symbol changes performed that is used to determine whether or not the prescribed number of times related to the normal symbol high probability has been reached is the number of symbol changes performed related to special symbol 2. However, the number of symbol changes performed that is used to determine this may be the number of symbol changes performed related to special symbol 2 plus the number of symbol changes performed related to special symbol 1. Furthermore, in this embodiment, during a minor win game, the normal symbol lottery state for the symbol variation that caused the minor win game is maintained.

[0088] This general drawing state changes in conjunction with the special symbol variation pattern derivation state described above, and the transition of the special symbol variation pattern derivation state is managed by the game state control means 155. The transition of the special symbol variation pattern derivation state will be explained below with reference to Figures 10(a) and 10(b). Figure 10(a) is a state transition diagram showing the transition of the special symbol variation pattern derivation state, and Figure 10(b) is a diagram showing the relationship of average variation time for each special symbol variation pattern derivation state. As shown in Figure 10(a), the special symbol variation pattern derivation states include special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA, which corresponds to the normal symbol low probability state, and special symbol variation pattern derivation states PB and special symbol variation pattern derivation state PC, which correspond to the normal symbol high probability state. Except during jackpot gameplay, one of these special symbol variation pattern derivation states is set. Furthermore, the transition conditions between special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA and special symbol variation pattern derivation state PC are transition conditions (i) to transition conditions (vi).

[0089] Specifically, transition condition (i) is the end of a jackpot game related to symbol B, transition condition (ii) is the end of a jackpot game related to symbol A, transition condition (iii) is the end of a jackpot game related to symbol a, symbol b, or symbol d, transition condition (iv) is the end of a symbol variation where the number of symbol variations related to special symbol 2 performed without a jackpot game in normal symbol high probability mode reaches 40 (the prescribed number for normal symbol high probability mode in special symbol variation pattern derivation state PB), transition condition (v) is the end of a symbol variation where the number of symbol variations related to special symbol 2 performed without a jackpot game in normal symbol high probability mode reaches 80 (the prescribed number for normal symbol high probability mode in special symbol variation pattern derivation state PC), and transition condition (vi) is the end of a jackpot game related to symbol c. Furthermore, if a jackpot game involving symbol a, symbol b, or symbol d occurs in the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PC, the system will return to the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PC after the jackpot game ends, and the number of symbol variations related to special symbol 2 that can be performed up to the specified number of times related to the normal symbol high probability state in the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PC will be reset. Although not shown in the diagram, if a minor win occurs in the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PB or special symbol variation pattern derivation state PC, and the game ball does not pass through the V-winning area, resulting in no major win, the current special symbol variation pattern derivation state ends upon the completion of the minor win, and the game transitions to the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA.

[0090] As shown in Figure 10(b), the average variation times for each of the special symbol variation pattern derivation states PA, PB, and PC decrease in the order of PA, PB, and PC. This is due to the length of the variation time related to the basic special symbol variation pattern that is most easily determined in each special symbol variation pattern derivation state. Here, the average variation time refers to the sum of the variation times derived by multiplying each variation time related to a special symbol variation pattern that can be selected in a given special symbol variation pattern derivation state by the occurrence rate (the probability that can occur in any symbol variation, derived by multiplying the probability of the special symbol variation pattern winning by the probability of the special symbol win / fail judgment result being derived). However, in this embodiment, if there is only one special symbol variation pattern that can be selected in a given special symbol variation pattern derivation state, the variation time related to that special symbol variation pattern is treated as the average variation time.

[0091] Furthermore, when a transition occurs between the normal drawing state and the special symbol variation pattern derivation state, the game state control means 155 generates a performance control command (game state specification command) that includes the state after the transition, and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Furthermore, the game state control means 155 counts the number of times the symbol variation is executed in each special symbol variation pattern derivation state, and each time a symbol variation starts, it generates a performance control command that includes the counted number of symbol variations, and stores the command in the transmission command area of ​​the main information storage means 160. The information included in the performance control command may also be included in the variation start command described above.

[0092] As described above, the main information storage means 160 is a means for temporarily storing data read by each means, data derived by calculations etc. performed by each means, etc., in the corresponding storage areas.

[0093] The main error control means 165 monitors the input information of the I / O port 104 and determines whether the gaming machine 10 is in an error state. If it is determined that the machine is in an error state, it stores a performance control command (error command) containing information that can identify the error state in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. In this embodiment, error states determined by the main error control means 165 include, for example, a main board error based on the occurrence of the update abnormality described above, a magnetic error based on magnetic detection by a magnetic detection sensor, a radio wave error based on radio wave detection by a radio wave detection sensor, a complete error based on the difference in the number of balls since the latest power outage recovery (total value of prize balls minus total value of out balls) reaching a specified value, a right-hand shooting error based on the detection of game balls by the gate sensor 74 or the second start port sensor 71, a door opening error based on the detection of the opening of the middle frame 17 by the middle frame opening sensor 76 or the opening of the front frame 20 by the front frame opening sensor 77, a full tank error based on the detection of game balls by the full tank detection sensor, and a remaining prize ball error that occurs when there are remaining prize balls. The occurrence or absence of error states according to this embodiment is monitored during the playable state, which will be described later. To summarize the conditions under which some of these errors occur, the main board error, as mentioned above, is an error state indicating an update abnormality in the random number circuit 105, and occurs when such an update abnormality occurs. Next, the magnetic error is an error state that occurs when magnetic detection by the magnetic detection sensor occurs for 500ms continuously, and the radio wave error is an error state that occurs when the number of radio wave detections by the radio wave detection sensor (cumulative number since the previous power-on) totals 5 times. Furthermore, the right-hand shooting error is an error state that occurs when the gate sensor 74 detects a game ball 3 times during normal operation (special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA, special symbol low probability and normal symbol low probability) (the number of detections is reset 1000ms after the last detection), or when the second start port sensor 71 detects a game ball once during normal operation, and the full tank error is an error state that occurs when the full tank detection sensor is ON, that is, when a game ball is detected by the full tank detection sensor.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, among these error states, the main board error, magnetic error, radio wave error, and complete error are treated as error states of relatively high importance (hereinafter simply referred to as "high-importance error states"). Therefore, when one of these high-importance error states occurs, the main error control means 165, in addition to turning on the security signal, performs game progression restriction processing to prevent the game from progressing, such as restricting the launch of game balls by the payout control board 400, thereby stopping the game. Here, a security signal is a type of signal output from an external terminal board (not shown) provided on the gaming machine 10 to devices outside the gaming machine (such as a data display or hall computer). In the following explanation, turning the security signal ON means starting the output of the security signal, and turning the security signal OFF means ending the output of the security signal. In this embodiment, the process of turning the security signal OFF does not take into account the elapsed time since the security signal was turned ON, but it is also possible to take this elapsed time into consideration, that is, to avoid turning the security signal OFF before a certain amount of time has elapsed since the security signal was turned ON. Furthermore, if any of these high-priority error conditions occur, the first sub-control board 200 and the second sub-control board 300 will issue a notification that identifies which error condition has occurred. The above-mentioned high-priority error conditions are just examples, and other error conditions may be defined as such.

[0095] Furthermore, these high-priority error states can only be cleared (the game stop state can be terminated) by a power outage followed by a restoration of power (regardless of whether the RAM clear process described later is performed) or by a power outage accompanied by a RAM clear process. The security signals related to these game stop states will turn OFF due to the power outage (they will remain ON until the power outage occurs). Furthermore, if these high-priority error states are configured to be cleared only by a power interruption and restoration accompanied by a RAM clear process, it is preferable to configure the system so that a notification prompting the execution of the RAM clear process is issued when a power interruption and restoration without a RAM clear process occurs while the error state is present. Here, the notification prompting the execution of the RAM clear process is not limited to notifications that directly prompt the execution of the RAM clear process, such as an audio output or image display saying "Please perform a RAM clear," but may also be notifications that indirectly prompt the execution of the RAM clear process, such as the illumination of a special lamp (triggered by the occurrence of a power interruption and restoration without a RAM clear process while a high-priority error state is present). In particular, it is preferable that these notifications prompting the execution of the RAM clear process are different in nature from notifications that notify that a high-priority error state has occurred at the time the high-priority error state occurs.

[0096] On the other hand, in the case of relatively low-priority error conditions (hereinafter simply referred to as "low-priority error conditions"), such as right-hand shooting errors, door open errors, full tank errors, and remaining prize ball errors, the launch of game balls is not restricted, and the game can continue. When any of these error conditions occur, the first sub-control board 200 and the second sub-control board 300 will issue a notification that identifies which error condition has occurred. Furthermore, a right-hand hit error is terminated when the notification related to the error state is completed, a door open error is terminated when the middle frame door open sensor 76 detects the middle frame 17 to be closed, or when the front frame door open sensor 77 detects the front frame 20 to be closed, a remaining prize ball error is terminated when there are no remaining prize balls, and a full tank error is terminated when the full tank detection sensor no longer detects any game balls. When the termination conditions for any of these error states are met, a performance control command (recovery command) indicating that the termination conditions have been met is stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. Furthermore, the low-priority error conditions described above are just examples, and other error conditions may be provided, such as an abnormal entry error that occurs when a game ball is detected by the large entry sensor 72 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the large entry opening 55 closed during a jackpot game. If these error conditions are provided, notification related to the error condition will be executed. In the case of an abnormal entry error, similar to the right-hand shooting error described above, the notification related to the error condition may be terminated when the execution of notification related to the error condition is completed. In this embodiment, notifications that can identify a high-priority error state are executed with priority over notifications that can identify a low-priority error state, and notifications that can identify a low-priority error state are executed with priority over other effects that are performed during the symbol change, including the effects described later.

[0097] The main command management means 170 transmits a performance control command to the first sub-control board 200 when a performance control command is stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160. In principle, each performance control command is transmitted in the order in which it is stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the main information storage means 160.

[0098] The power restoration processing execution means 175 includes a recovery state setting means 176 and a game-ready state transition means 179.

[0099] The recovery state setting means 176 executes a recovery state setting process to set a recovery state based on whether or not there is an abnormality in the RAM 103 when power is restored, the state at the time of the power outage immediately before the power restoration, the state of the RAM clear switch 43 when power is restored, and the state of the middle frame door open sensor 76 when power is restored. The recovery states set by this process include a game stop state and a game-ready state (which may or may not involve the execution of a RAM clear process). Specifically, if there is an abnormality in RAM 103 when power is restored, the game stop state is set regardless of the state of RAM clear switch 43 and the state of middle frame door open sensor 76 when power is restored. Also, if there is no abnormality in RAM 103 when power is restored and RAM clear switch 43 is ON (pressed), the RAM clear process is executed and the game-ready state is set, provided that the middle frame door open sensor 76 is ON when power is restored (if the middle frame door open sensor 76 is OFF when power is restored, the RAM clear process is not executed and the game-ready state is set). If there is no abnormality in RAM 103 when power is restored and RAM clear switch 43 is OFF (not pressed), the RAM clear process is not executed and the game-ready state is set. Here, the game stop state is a recovery state in which the game cannot proceed because processing according to the detection results of sensors installed at each prize entry point is not performed (it is not necessary to even look at the detection results of the sensors). In this embodiment, in order to return from these game stop states (game stop states set as recovery states) to a playable state, it is necessary to perform a RAM clear process, and as described above, when the RAM clear process is performed, the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA is set. Therefore, in this embodiment, the game stop state that requires the execution of a RAM clear process in order to recover can be said to be essentially the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA. On the other hand, the "playable state" is a restored state in which gameplay can be resumed by executing processing according to the detection results of sensors installed at each prize entry point. In particular, if the RAM clear process is not executed when power is restored, the game returns to the playable state it was in at the time of the previous power outage. For example, if a big win game or a small win game was in progress at the time of the previous power outage, the game will return to the big win game or small win game that was in progress. If a symbol change was in progress at the time of the previous power outage, the game will return to the symbol change that was in progress.

[0100] Furthermore, whether or not there is an abnormality in RAM103 is determined by executing a RAM abnormality check at the beginning of the recovery state setting process (specifically, determining whether or not a backup flag is stored in the backup information area related to the target area (whether or not the backup flag is ON), and if the backup flag is stored (if the backup flag is ON), deriving a checksum of the complement stored in the target area and the backup information area related to that area, and if the result of this calculation is 0, determining that the target area is normal, and otherwise determining that the target area is abnormal) on the area of ​​RAM103 related to gameplay.

[0101] The playable state transition means 179 executes a playable state transition process to transition to the playable state when the playable state is set. To explain in more detail, during the transition to a playable state, if the security signal output is ON, the process of turning the security signal output OFF and the initial device setup are performed. Furthermore, during the initial setup of the device, processes such as sending a launch permission command to the payout control board 400 to allow the launch of game balls, setting the state in which balls can enter each prize pocket, and setting data to activate the random number circuit 105 are performed.

[0102] The power cut-off processing execution means 180 performs power cut-off processing based on the receipt of a power cut-off signal from the power control board 500. Specifically, for the area of ​​RAM 103 related to gameplay, the following processes are executed: deriving the checksum of the area, storing the complement of the checksum in the backup information area of ​​RAM 103 related to gameplay, and turning on a backup flag to indicate that power-off processing has been performed on the area (storing the backup flag in the backup information area of ​​RAM 103 related to gameplay).

[0103] As shown in Figure 7, the first sub-control board 200 includes a sub-random number generation means 210, a normal performance control means 220, a sub-error control means 230, a lamp control means 240, a movable prop control means 245, a sub-information storage means 260, and a sub-command management means 270. These means functionally represent what is realized by each control configuration on the first sub-control board 200 as described with reference to Figure 6. Here, the sub-information storage means 260 is a means for temporarily storing data read by means provided in the first sub-control board 200, and data derived by calculations performed by said means, in corresponding storage areas. Furthermore, performance control commands transmitted from the main command management means 170 are stored in the received command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260 by the sub-command management means 270. In the following description, the process by which performance control commands transmitted from the main command management means 170 are stored in the received command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260 by the sub-command management means 270 may simply be referred to as the reception of performance control commands.

[0104] The sub-random number generation means 210 is capable of generating random numbers (software random numbers) that are updated by program processing by the CPU 201, and acquires random numbers at the timing when each lottery (details described later) is executed by the normal performance control means 220.

[0105] The normal performance control means 220 includes a performance mode control means 221, a performance route determination means 222, a sub-hold control means 223, a pre-read performance control means 224, a performance content determination means 225, a decorative pattern control means 226, and a jackpot performance control means 227.

[0106] The performance mode control means 221, upon receiving a game state specification command, controls the transition of the performance mode in a manner consistent with the special symbol variation pattern derivation state managed on the main control board 100. In this embodiment, the performance modes are broadly classified into Normal Mode, Challenge Mode, and RUSH Mode. Normal Mode corresponds to Special Symbol Variation Pattern Derivation State PA, Challenge Mode to Special Symbol Variation Pattern Derivation State PB, and RUSH Mode to Special Symbol Variation Pattern Derivation State PC.

[0107] When the performance route determination means 222 receives a pre-determination command, it determines (sets) the performance route corresponding to the currently held symbol variation based on the result of the pre-determination included in the command (in this embodiment, the special symbol variation pattern). However, if the special symbol variation pattern corresponding to the symbol variation is the special symbol variation pattern HNP described above, the performance route determination means 222 does not determine the performance route when the pre-determination command is transmitted, but instead determines the performance route at the start of the symbol variation based on the special symbol variation pattern included in the variation start command (for example, if the special symbol variation pattern derivation state is PA, then special symbol variation patterns HNP-A to special symbol variation patterns HNP-D). Here, the performance route refers to the performance from the start to the end of the symbol variation, which defines the process of performance that notifies the result of the special symbol win / loss determination in that symbol variation. The content of the performance performed in that symbol variation is determined by the performance content determination means 225, which will be described later, according to the performance route corresponding to that symbol variation.

[0108] In this embodiment, the performance routes are broadly divided into a "miss" performance route, which notifies that the result of the special symbol win / loss judgment in the current symbol variation is a miss (the result of the special symbol win / loss judgment in the current symbol variation is neither a big win nor a small win), and a "big win" performance route, which notifies that the result of the special symbol win / loss judgment in the current symbol variation is a big win or a small win. Furthermore, the miss performance route is divided into a "non-development miss" performance route, in which no development performance is performed, and a "development miss" performance route, in which a development performance is performed. As will be described later, if a big win performance route is determined, a development performance will be performed unless otherwise specified. Here, a development sequence refers to a sequence that is executed after the decorative symbols enter a reach state (a state where all but one row of symbols are stopped and displayed, and the remaining row of symbols is displayed in motion), and which, at the end of the sequence, announces whether the result of the special symbol hit / miss judgment in the current symbol change is a big win or a small win. Therefore, in a development sequence corresponding to a development miss sequence route, a series of sequences corresponding to that development sequence are executed, and at the end of the sequence, it is announced that the result of the special symbol hit / miss judgment in the current symbol change is neither a big win nor a small win. On the other hand, in a development sequence corresponding to a big win sequence route, a series of sequences corresponding to that development sequence are executed, and at the end of the sequence, it is announced that the result of the special symbol hit / miss judgment in the current symbol change is either a big win or a small win. Furthermore, as will be described later, in this embodiment, in one performance mode, each of the determined special symbol variation patterns is associated with a different performance route. Therefore, in the following explanation, the performance route for a special symbol variation pattern may simply be represented by the special symbol variation pattern. However, multiple performance routes may be associated with a single special symbol variation pattern, in which case one performance route can be determined from the multiple performance routes corresponding to the determined special symbol variation pattern.

[0109] When the sub-hold control means 223 receives a hold command (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as the occurrence of a hold win), it sets performance data to display a number of hold images corresponding to the special figure 1 hold counter and a number of hold images corresponding to the special figure 2 hold counter in the hold display area (not shown) of the main display unit 81, based on the information of the special figure 1 hold counter and the special figure 2 hold counter included in the command. The hold images are images that are the subject of a hold pre-read performance (an example of a pre-read performance described later) that changes in various ways to suggest the degree of advantage, such as the expected probability of a big win occurring.

[0110] When the pre-reading effect control means 224 receives a pre-determination command, it determines the content of the so-called pre-reading effect based on the result of the pre-determination included in the command.

[0111] When the performance content determination means 225 receives a variation start command, it determines the content of the performance to be executed in the current symbol variation according to the performance route already determined by the performance route determination means 222. More specifically, the performance content determination means 225 determines a reference performance pattern lottery table for each performance execution timing in the symbol variation, based on the performance route determined by the performance route determination means 222, and then determines the content of the performance by lottery using the determined performance pattern lottery table. In particular, this makes it possible to change the content of the performance related to (executed according to) the determined performance route, and also to create a connection between the performances in a single symbol variation.

[0112] When the decorative pattern control means 226 receives a variation start command, it determines the final combination of decorative patterns (left pattern, middle pattern, right pattern) that will be displayed as a confirmed stop, based on the determined stop pattern of the special pattern. Specifically, in the symbol variation related to Special Feature 1, a symbol combination related to decorative symbols, including a symbol combination related to the number 7, is determined for symbol A, and a symbol combination related to decorative symbols excluding the number 7 is determined for symbol B. Therefore, in this embodiment, the number of rounds in the jackpot game that occurs, and the subsequent performance mode (special feature variation pattern derivation state) after the jackpot game ends, can be inferred from the type of symbol combination related to decorative symbols that corresponds to the jackpot game. In the symbol variation related to Special Feature 2, for symbols a, c, and d, one of the symbol combinations related to decorative symbols including the 7 symbol is determined, and for symbol b, one of the symbol combinations related to decorative symbols excluding the 7 symbol is determined. Therefore, in this embodiment, if a symbol combination related to the 7 symbol is displayed as a stop, it is confirmed that it is a jackpot game related to the stopped symbols (symbol a, c, or d) excluding symbol b. This makes it easier to estimate the number of rounds related to the jackpot game that occurs depending on the type of symbol combination related to the decorative symbols corresponding to the jackpot game, similar to the symbol variation related to Special Feature 1. On the other hand, unlike the symbol variation related to Special Feature 1, in the symbol variation related to Special Feature 2, it is difficult to estimate the subsequent performance mode depending on the type of symbol combination related to the decorative symbols corresponding to the jackpot game.

[0113] When the jackpot performance control means 227 receives a performance control command related to the jackpot game (start demo command, round start command, end demo command), it determines the content of the performance during the jackpot game based on the type of performance control command and the information contained in the performance control command. Furthermore, the game includes three types of effects during a jackpot: a start demo effect that is executed upon receiving a start demo command to announce the start of the jackpot game; a round effect that is executed upon receiving a round start command to announce that a round is in progress; and an end demo effect that is executed upon receiving an end demo command to announce the end of the jackpot game. In particular, the round effect includes music playback, and the player can select the music to be played through gameplay; details of this will be described later.

[0114] The normal performance control means 220 reads performance data for each device corresponding to each performance at the execution timing of each performance, according to the content of the performance determined by the means described above provided in the first sub-control board 200. If the read performance data includes performance data related to images, it generates an image control command based on that performance data and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260. Furthermore, if the read performance data includes performance data related to sound, it generates an audio control command related to sound based on that performance data and stores the command in the transmission command storage area of ​​the sub-information storage means 260. Furthermore, the normal performance control means 220 reads performance data to notify that the system has become playable after the RAM clear process is executed if the system has returned to a playable state after power is restored, and reads performance data to notify that the system has become playable without the RAM clear process if the system has returned to a playable state without the RAM clear process is executed. In addition, if the system enters a play-stopped state, the normal performance control means 220 reads performance data to notify that the system has entered a play-stopped state and that the RAM clear process is required. The details of these notifications are omitted here, but it is preferable that they continue to be executed for a certain period of time (for example, 30 seconds) after execution begins, and the performance device that executes the notification is not limited.

[0115] The sub-error control means 230 determines an error notification pattern when an error command is transmitted and reads out performance data for executing the error notification according to the error notification pattern. Furthermore, error notifications are executed in priority over the variation effects related to symbol changes. Here, "error notifications are executed in priority" means that, when the device that executes the error notification and the device that executes the variation effects are the same device, it is not limited to cases where only the error notification is executed on that device (where the execution of the variation effects is restricted by the execution of the error notification), but also includes cases where the error notification is executed on that device in a manner that is more easily recognized than the variation effects. Furthermore, the sub-error control means 230 may independently (independently of the main error control means 165) determine whether or not the gaming machine 10 is in an error state, and if it determines that it is in an error state, it may read out performance data to execute an error notification.

[0116] The lamp control means 240 holds lamp control data for controlling the lighting of various lamps such as the frame lamp 35. For example, if the performance data read by the normal performance control means 220 contains performance data corresponding to a lamp, the lamp control means 240 reads the lamp control data based on that performance data and transmits the read lamp control data to the lamp to be executed.

[0117] The movable mechanism control means 245, if the performance data read by the normal performance control means 220 contains performance data corresponding to a movable mechanism, reads from the ROM 202 based on the performance data to control the movement of the movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82, transmits the read movable mechanism control data to the movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82, and controls the movement of the movable decorative body 22 and the sub-display unit 82.

[0118] As described above, the sub-information storage means 260 is a means for temporarily storing data read by means provided in the first sub-control board 200, data derived by calculations performed by said means, etc., in corresponding storage areas.

[0119] The subcommand management means 270 receives performance control commands transmitted from the main control board 100 and stores the received performance commands in the received command storage area of ​​the subinformation storage means 260. Furthermore, if an image control command is stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the subinformation storage means 260, the subcommand management means 270 transmits the image control command to the second sub-control board 300. In addition, if an audio control command is stored in the same storage area, the subcommand management means 270 transmits these commands to the audio control board 310. These commands are transmitted, in principle, in the order in which they are stored in the transmission command storage area of ​​the subinformation storage means 260.

[0120] As explained above, the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment is configured to play music during jackpot games (especially round games), and to allow the player to select the music to be played through game operation, thereby enabling the playback of various types of music. This configuration contributes to enhancing the enjoyment of the player. Furthermore, in recent years, there has been a growing demand not only for people to play the amusement machines, but also for people to showcase the gameplay or simply for entertainment purposes by sharing videos of the machines being played on video streaming sites. However, the publication of such gameplay videos raises concerns about infringement of copyrights and other rights (hereinafter simply referred to as "rights") through the output of audio such as music and the display of images such as lyrics. In contrast, the gaming machine according to this embodiment is equipped with a function to restrict the output of sound such as music and the display of images such as lyrics. The details of this function and related functions will be described below.

[0121] <Regarding playback management processing during jackpot gameplay> First, using Figures 11 to 13, we will explain in detail the in-game playback management process that manages the music played during a jackpot game. Figure 11 shows the flow of the playback management process during a jackpot game, which is executed by the jackpot performance control means 227 when a round start command is received. Figure 12(a) is a table summarizing the types of music played during jackpot games related to symbols A, B, b, and c, and Figure 12(b) is a table summarizing the types of music played during jackpot games related to symbols a and d. In particular, the music shown in these figures has different melodies and all have vocals. Figure 13(a) schematically shows the music selection table used in the jackpot game related to symbol a, and Figure 13(b) schematically shows the music selection table used in the jackpot game related to symbol d. The range of random numbers used in the selections related to these selection tables is 0 to 999.

[0122] As shown in Figure 11, in step S202, which is the first step of the playback management process during a jackpot game, it is determined whether the jackpot game related to the round start command that triggered the execution of the current playback management process during a jackpot game (hereinafter simply referred to as "the current jackpot game") is related to Special Figure 2. If this condition is met, the process proceeds to step S204; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S206. In step S204, it is determined whether the current jackpot game is not related to symbol b or symbol c. If this condition is met (i.e., the current jackpot game is related to either symbol a or symbol d, i.e., a jackpot game with 10 rounds), the process proceeds to step S208. If this condition is not met (i.e., the current jackpot game is related to symbol b or symbol c, i.e., a jackpot game with 4 rounds), the process proceeds to step S206.

[0123] In step S206, the music corresponding to the current jackpot game is played, and then the playback management process during the jackpot game is terminated. Specifically, as shown in Figure 12(a), if the winning symbol is symbol A, song M1 will be played; if the winning symbol is symbol B, song M2 will be played; and if the winning symbol is symbol b or c, song M3 will be played. Here, songs M1, M2, and M3 are all original songs (hereinafter referred to as "original songs") whose rights are owned by the manufacturer that created the gaming machine. Therefore, even if these songs are released on video distribution sites, no issues related to copyright infringement will arise.

[0124] In step S208, it is determined whether the consecutive win counter is 5 or not. If this condition is met, the process proceeds to step S210; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S212. Here, the consecutive win counter is a counter that is incremented by 1 each time a jackpot game is played, and is reset (set to its initial value of 0) when the game transitions to the normal low probability state (special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA) excluding during a jackpot game, so that it can take on an integer value of 0 or more. This counter is equivalent to the so-called number of consecutive wins. In particular, in this embodiment, "consecutive wins" refers to jackpot games being played without the special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA in between (or, if it is two or more times, with the special symbol variation pattern derivation state related to the normal high probability state in between). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the value of the consecutive win counter is backed up when the power is lost. Therefore, in the case of a power outage and subsequent restoration of power without the execution of a RAM clear process, the value of the consecutive win counter at the time of the power outage is maintained and restored. On the other hand, in the case of a power outage and subsequent restoration of power with the execution of a RAM clear process, the value of the consecutive win counter at the time of the power outage is not maintained and reverts to its initial value (0).

[0125] In step S210, song M12 is played, and then the playback management process during the jackpot game is terminated. This is shown in the bottom row of Figure 12(b). In step S212, it is determined whether the consecutive win counter is 3 or less. If this condition is met, the process proceeds to step S214. If the condition is not met (i.e., the consecutive win counter is greater than 3, i.e., 4 or more), the process proceeds to step S218.

[0126] In step S214, the song to be played is determined by a lottery using a song selection table. Specifically, as shown in Figure 13(a), if the winning game in this instance is a winning game related to symbol a, then song M4 is determined to be played with a probability of 500 / 1000 (1 / 2), and song M5 is determined to be played with a probability of 500 / 1000 (1 / 2). In this case, song M6 is not determined to be played. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13(b), if the winning game in this instance is a winning game related to symbol d (a winning game that is more advantageous than a winning game related to symbol c), then song M4 is determined to be played with a probability of 300 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 3.33), song M5 with a probability of 600 / 1000 (approximately 1 / 1.67), and song M6 with a probability of 100 / 1000 (1 / 10). In step S216, the song to be played, determined in step S214, is played, and then the playback management process during the jackpot game is terminated.

[0127] In step S218, candidate songs are set according to the value of the consecutive win counter. Here, candidate songs refer to songs that can be selected in the song selection state described later. Specifically, as shown in Figure 12(b), if the consecutive win counter is 4 or more (but less than 6), songs M4, M5, and M6 are set as candidate songs. Similarly, if the consecutive win counter is 6 or more (but less than 8), songs M4, M5, M6, and M7 are set as candidate songs; if the consecutive win counter is 8 or more (but less than 10), songs M4, M5, M6, M7, and M8 are set as candidate songs; if the consecutive win counter is 10 or more (but less than 12), songs M4, M5, M6, M7, M8, and M9 are set as candidate songs; if the consecutive win counter is 12 or more (but less than 14), songs M4, M5, M6, M7, M8, M9, and M10 are set as candidate songs; and if the consecutive win counter is 14 or more, songs M4, M5, M6, M7, M8, M9, M10, and M11 are set as candidate songs. As mentioned above, if the consecutive win counter is 5, no song selection will be made, and song M12 will be played. Furthermore, in this embodiment, songs M4 to M11 are all songs whose rights are owned by parties other than the manufacturer that created the gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as "rights-protected songs"). Therefore, if these songs are made available on video distribution sites, issues related to rights infringement may arise.

[0128] In step S220, a specific song is played. Here, the specific song is a song that is played before the playback of the selected song begins (while a song is selected), and this specific song is different (has a different melody) from any of the aforementioned songs M1 to M12, and does not contain vocals. This specific song is the original song mentioned above.

[0129] Step S222 sets a music selection state where music can be selected through gameplay. The types of music that can be selected in this state are as described above, but the flow of music selection in this state will be described later. In step S224, it is determined whether a specified time (10,000 ms in this embodiment) has elapsed. If the condition is met, the process proceeds to step S226; otherwise, the process returns to step S224. In step S226, the music selection state is terminated, the music that was selected at the time of termination is played, and then the playback management process during the jackpot game is terminated.

[0130] Thus, in this embodiment, when the consecutive win counter is 3 or less, the song to be played is determined by a lottery using the song lottery table. In particular, the probability of song M4 being selected is higher when the current jackpot game is related to symbol a (approximately 1 / 2) than when the current jackpot game is related to symbol d (approximately 1 / 3.33), and the probability of song M5 being selected is higher when the current jackpot game is related to symbol d (approximately 1 / 1.67) than when the current jackpot game is related to symbol a (approximately 1 / 2). Therefore, when the consecutive win counter is 3 or less, playing song M5 is more advantageous than playing song M4. On the other hand, when the consecutive win counter is greater than 3, a song selection state is set in which song selection is possible through game operation, and the candidate songs in this song selection state include songs M4 and M5. According to this, when the consecutive win counter is 3 or less, the game provides a gameplay feature that suggests an advantage based on the type of music played. When the consecutive win counter is greater than 3 (after the consecutive win counter reaches 4), it can provide a fresh experience for players who have experienced a bias in the music played due to this gameplay feature. In this way, it is possible to enhance the enjoyment of the game by allowing players to enjoy consecutive wins for a longer period of time in a gaming machine where the main appeal is accumulating consecutive wins.

[0131] Furthermore, the threshold value of the consecutive win counter mentioned above (3 in this embodiment) can be arbitrarily set to match the consecutive win performance (expected value of consecutive big wins) of each gaming machine. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the consecutive win counter is 3 or less, the song to be played is determined by lottery, but this is not limited to this. That is, as long as the degree of advantage differs depending on the song to be played, the song to be played may be determined without lottery using at least one of symbols a and d.

[0132] Furthermore, in some cases where the consecutive win counter is 3 or less, the song selection state may be set in the same way as when the consecutive win counter is greater than 3 (especially when the consecutive win counter is 4 or more but less than 6). Furthermore, in some cases where the consecutive win counter is greater than 3, the song to be played may be determined without setting a song selection state. In particular, when the song to be played is determined without setting a song selection state in such cases, the advantage level may or may not be indicated by the song to be played.

[0133] In particular, in this embodiment, when the consecutive win counter is 3 or less, song M6 is not selected as a playback target if the current jackpot game is related to symbol c. On the other hand, it may be selected as a playback target if the current jackpot game is related to symbols a and d (both of which have a higher advantage than symbol c). Furthermore, when the consecutive win counter is greater than 3, song M6 is included in the list of candidate songs. According to this, in gaming machines where the main appeal lies in achieving consecutive wins, it is possible to enhance the effect of allowing players to enjoy consecutive wins for a longer period, thereby increasing the enjoyment of the game.

[0134] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the consecutive play counter is 5 (a value greater than the threshold of 3 for the consecutive play counter mentioned above), the song selection state is not set and song M12 is played, thereby restricting the playback of song M4, which would be relatively disadvantageous when the consecutive play counter is 3 or less. According to this, the correlation between a high number of consecutive wins (a situation favorable to the player) and song M4, which gives a relatively unfavorable impression, can be reduced, and the visual impact of the difference in played songs when the consecutive win counter is 3 or less can be enhanced. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, it is sufficient that the playback of at least track M4 is restricted when the consecutive win counter is 5; it is not necessarily required to restrict the setting of the track selection state, for example, by excluding track M4 from the candidate tracks before setting the track selection state.

[0135] Furthermore, as described above, in this embodiment, when the consecutive win counter is greater than 3, a specific song without vocals is played before the song selected (playback decided) in the song selection state is played. On the other hand, songs M1 to M12, including songs M4 and M5, contain vocals. According to this, it is possible to increase attention to the songs available for selection in the song selection state and to increase the desire to select songs in that state. Furthermore, in order for this effect to be achieved, it is not necessary for a specific song to be played before the selected song in all cases where the selected song is played; it is acceptable for a specific song to be played before the selected song in some cases. Furthermore, the timing of when a specific song begins playing is irrelevant, as long as it occurs after the winning game has started and before the song selected during the song selection state is played.

[0136] In particular, in this embodiment, the specific song is different from any of the candidate songs in the song selection state. That is, the specific song is a song that cannot be selected in the song selection state. According to this, it is possible to enhance the effect of increasing attention to selectable songs in the aforementioned song selection state and increasing the desire to select songs in that state.

[0137] <Regarding song selection status> Next, using Figure 14, we will explain in detail the flow of song selection in the song selection state. Figure 14 shows the flow of song selection in the song selection state.

[0138] As shown in the upper part of Figure 14, when a song is selected, a selected song identification image sg that identifies the currently selected song, a meter image mg that indicates the elapsed time related to the song selection state, and a button image bg that prompts the user to make a selection are displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81. More specifically, the selected song identification image sg displays the title of the currently selected song, and at the start of the song selection process, this image corresponds to the initially selected song. If the song is changed through gameplay, the changed song becomes the initial selected song thereafter. On the other hand, if the song has never been changed through gameplay and no candidate songs have been added due to an increase in the consecutive win counter, song M4 becomes the initial selected song. If the song has never been changed through gameplay and candidate songs have been added due to an increase in the consecutive win counter, the added song becomes the initial selected song.

[0139] The meter image mg is initially black when the music selection state is set, and then the black area shrinks at a constant speed so that the entire image becomes white when the specified time related to the music selection state has elapsed (when the music selection state ends). The button image background consists of an image that mimics the control section (cursor buttons 38) that needs to be operated to select (change) a song in the song selection state, an arrow image that identifies which of the buttons on the control section (left cursor button 38c, right cursor button 38d) is effective for song selection, and the words "Select with the directional keys".

[0140] Next, as shown in the flow from the top to the bottom of Figure 14, if the right cursor button 38d is operated while the currently selected song is song M5, the currently selected song will switch to M6, and the title of song M6 will be displayed by the selected song identification image sg. Although not shown in the diagram, in the state shown in the upper part of Figure 14, if the left cursor button 38c is operated, the currently selected song will switch to M4, and the title of song M4 will be displayed by the selected song identification image sg. Thus, in this embodiment, when the right cursor button 38d is operated while a song is selected, the currently selected song switches in the order of song M4, song M5, ..., song M12 (in the direction of increasing numbers), while when the left cursor button 38c is operated, the currently selected song switches in the order of song M12, song M11, ..., song M4 (in the direction of decreasing numbers). Furthermore, if the right cursor button 38d is pressed while the song with the highest number among the song selection candidates (for example, if the consecutive win counter = 7, song M7) is selected, the currently selected song will switch to the song with the lowest number among the song selection candidates (song M4). Conversely, if the left cursor button 38c is pressed while the song with the lowest number among the song selection candidates is selected, the currently selected song will switch to the song with the highest number among the song selection candidates.

[0141] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, in this embodiment, when a song is selected, a cumulative display image rg is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81, which shows the cumulative number of game balls obtained, calculated by accumulating the number of game balls dispensed in a series of winning games (during a winning streak) from when the winning streak counter becomes 1 or more until the winning streak counter is initialized. In this embodiment, the value identified by the cumulative display image rg (cumulative number of balls acquired) is not backed up during a power outage. Therefore, regardless of whether or not a RAM clear process is performed, when a power outage and subsequent restoration occurs, this value is not maintained and reverts to its initial value (0). On the other hand, as described above, when a power outage and subsequent restoration occurs without a RAM clear process, the value of the consecutive win counter is maintained. That is, when a power outage and subsequent restoration occurs without a RAM clear process when the consecutive win counter is greater than 3, the cumulative number of balls acquired reverts to its initial value, while the music selection state is set when the first jackpot game after the restoration begins. According to this, when a power outage and subsequent restoration occur without the execution of a RAM clear process, it is possible to increase attention (motivation) to select music. In order to achieve the aforementioned effect, the method is not limited to the method according to this embodiment, as long as the above-mentioned events occur in a manner in which they do so, for example, by setting a specific flag to ON when the consecutive win counter reaches a value greater than 3, and maintaining the state of the specific flag when a power outage and subsequent restoration occurs without the execution of a RAM clear process (on the other hand, the specific flag is turned OFF when a power outage and subsequent restoration occurs with the execution of a RAM clear process). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the target (the value that becomes the initial value when a power outage and subsequent restoration occurs without the execution of RAM clear processing) is not limited to the cumulative number of balls acquired. Any value that has a positive correlation with the number of consecutive wins may be adopted, such as the cumulative number of round games played in a series of winning games from when the consecutive win counter becomes 1 or more until the consecutive win counter is initialized. Moreover, the display of this value is not limited to the song selection state, but may be displayed during any period during which it is accumulated.

[0142] Furthermore, if the consecutive win counter is 3 (when the music selection state was not set at the time it reached that value), and a power outage and subsequent restoration occurs without a RAM clear process, the cumulative number of acquired balls will revert to its initial value, while the music selection state will be set when the first big win game after the restoration begins. This approach can improve the effect of increasing attention to the aforementioned song selections.

[0143] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, in this embodiment, during a jackpot game including the song selection state, a background image hg is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81, which is displayed after any of the above-mentioned images (selected song identification image sg, meter image mg, button image bg, cumulative display image rg) (it is drawn on the lowest priority layer). Details of the types (display modes) of the background image hg will be described later.

[0144] <Regarding the types of background images during jackpot gameplay> Next, using Figure 15, we will explain in detail the types of background images displayed during a jackpot game, including the music selection state. Figure 15(a) is a table summarizing the types of background images displayed during jackpot games related to symbols A, B, b, and c, and Figure 15(b) is a table summarizing the types of background images displayed during jackpot games related to symbols a and d. The display patterns of the background images shown in these tables are all different.

[0145] As shown in Figure 15(a), background image hg1 is displayed during a jackpot game when song M1 is played. Similarly, background image hg2 is displayed during a jackpot game when song M2 is played, and background image hg3 is displayed during a jackpot game when song M3 is played. This makes it possible to estimate which of the following jackpot games is being played: one related to symbol A, one to symbol B, one to symbol b, or one to symbol c.

[0146] Next, as shown in Figure 15(b), during jackpot games involving symbols a and d, the type of background image displayed during jackpot games in which music M4, music M5, or music M6 is played changes depending on the value of the consecutive win counter. Specifically, if the consecutive win counter is 3 or less, the background image hg0 will be displayed during the jackpot game, regardless of the type of music. According to this, by focusing on the types of music played when the consecutive win counter is 3 or less, it is possible to enhance the enjoyment of the game through a gameplay feature where the type of music played suggests an advantage. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, the background image hg0 does not need to be displayed for the entire duration of the jackpot game; it is sufficient for it to be displayed for a predetermined period of time from the start of the jackpot game (for example, until the 8th round of the jackpot game begins).

[0147] In particular, in this embodiment, the background image hg0 is displayed even when song M6 is played, which confirms that the current jackpot game is related to symbol a or symbol d. Therefore, when the consecutive win counter is 3 or less, the type of song played can be concentrated more.

[0148] On the other hand, if the consecutive win counter is greater than 3 (meaning that song selection based on gameplay is possible depending on the song selection settings), background image hg4 will be displayed during a jackpot game when song M4 is played, background image hg5 will be displayed when song M5 is played, and background image hg6 will be displayed when song M6 is played. In other words, if the consecutive win counter is greater than 3, a background image of the type corresponding to the song being played (the selected song) will be displayed. According to this, by creating a sense of unity between the music and background image when the consecutive win counter is greater than 3, the effect of enhancing the enjoyment of the game related to music selection can be increased.

[0149] Furthermore, in this embodiment, even during a jackpot game in which songs M7, M8, M9, M10, M11, and 12 are played, background images of the type corresponding to these songs are displayed. However, for tracks M7, M8, M9, M10, M11, and 12, as long as the types of background images corresponding to adjacent tracks in the switching order when the tracks are selected are different, a common background image may be displayed for tracks that are not adjacent in that switching order. This would achieve the effect of creating a sense of unity between the tracks and background images as described above, while also reducing the amount of work required to create the background images (moving images).

[0150] <About the song restriction mode> Next, the details of the music restriction mode according to this embodiment will be explained using Figures 16 to 21. Here, the music restriction mode is a mode designed to make it difficult to infringe on rights related to music and other audio when publishing game videos, and this mode is set by music restriction operation. Figure 16 is a table summarizing the presence or absence of vocals and the illumination pattern of the frame lamps for each song. Figure 17 shows a specific example of when a music restriction mode is set by a music restriction operation while a copyrighted music is being played. Figures 18(a), 18(b), and 19 are timing charts illustrating characteristic events that occur with copyrighted music and music restriction modes. Figure 20 shows a specific example of when the music restriction mode is set by the music restriction operation while the original music is being played. Figure 21 is a timing chart showing characteristic phenomena that occur with original music and music restriction modes.

[0151] First, as shown in Figure 16, songs M1 and M4-M12 include vocals, and when these songs are played, the lyrics may be displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81 in conjunction with the sound output. Therefore, for songs M4-M12, which are copyrighted songs, not only the sound output but also the display of the lyrics related to these songs may infringe on copyright. On the other hand, these problems do not occur with song M1, which is an original song. Tracks M2, M3, and M13 do not contain vocals, and when these tracks are played, lyrics are not displayed along with the audio. Here, track M13 is an original track that may be played in place of copyrighted tracks in the track restriction mode.

[0152] Furthermore, when songs M1 through M12 are played, the frame lamp 35 lights up in a lighting pattern (lighting pattern HP1 through lighting pattern HP12) that matches the melody. Here, the lighting pattern consists of the timing and color of the lamp's illumination, and these combinations differ for each song. On the other hand, there is no lighting pattern that corresponds to song M13. Therefore, when song M13 is played, the frame lamp 35 lights up with the lighting pattern (one of lighting patterns HP4 to HP12) that corresponds to the existing song that was originally being played (if song restriction mode is not set).

[0153] Next, as shown in Figure 17, in this embodiment, if a music restriction operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed while a copyrighted song (in this example, song M5) is playing when the music restriction mode is not set (music restriction mode OFF), a music restriction caption tg1 containing the text "Note 1) Music restriction mode has been set" is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81, and the original song, song M13, starts playing in place of the copyrighted song (music restriction mode ON). In this embodiment, the music restriction caption tg1 is an image that disappears after a certain amount of time has elapsed since it was first displayed (5000ms in this embodiment), and its display pattern is the same regardless of the type of copyrighted song whose playback is restricted. Furthermore, when a copyrighted song is played, a song identification image ng, which allows the type of copyrighted song to be identified, is displayed in the display area, and this song identification image ng continues to be displayed even after the song restriction operation is performed. Moreover, the song restriction operation is an operation to restrict the playback of copyrighted songs. Therefore, the display of the lyrics image kg, which allows the lyrics of the song that was playing to be identified, is maintained.

[0154] Furthermore, the music restriction operation in this embodiment is effective not only during jackpot games, which are periods when copyrighted music can be played, but also during periods other than jackpot games (minor jackpot games), such as during symbol changes. Therefore, unlike the button image background that prompts selection in the music selection state described above, no image prompting music restriction operation is displayed. This also helps to deter the music restriction mode from being set unintentionally. However, an image prompting music restriction operation may be displayed at least for a portion of non-game periods other than during jackpot games and symbol changes.

[0155] Thus, in this embodiment, if a copyrighted song is played without any song restriction operation being performed (in a state where the song restriction mode is not set), the copyrighted song is played and the frame lamp 35 lights up with a light emission pattern corresponding to the copyrighted song. On the other hand, if a copyrighted song is played after a song restriction operation has been performed (in a state where the song restriction mode is set), the original song M13 is played instead of the copyrighted song, thereby restricting the playback of the copyrighted song, and the frame lamp 35 remains lit with a light emission pattern corresponding to the copyrighted song. According to this, when publishing gameplay videos, it is possible to deter copyright infringement through the use of copyrighted music, while also making it easier to recognize that copyrighted music is being played after restrictions on the use of such music have been imposed. Furthermore, the method for limiting the output of a song is not limited to replacing it with an original song as in this embodiment. Any method that makes the copyrighted song difficult to perceive may be adopted, such as overlaying the output of the original song (while maintaining the output of the copyrighted song) or setting the playback volume of the copyrighted song to zero. In addition, the things that may give rise to copyright and other rights are not limited to songs as in this embodiment, but can also include sounds other than songs, such as sound effects. Therefore, in this invention, the scope of restriction may be limited to all sounds, not just songs. The same applies to each invention described below.

[0156] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the sound output control means (first sub-control board 200, sound control board 310) can output a first sound based on the satisfaction of the first condition, and the light emission control means (first sub-control board 200) can illuminate the light emission means with a first light emission pattern corresponding to the first sound. If the first condition is satisfied without performing a first specific operation to restrict the output of the first sound (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e), the first sound is output without being restricted by the first specific operation, and the light emission means illuminates with the first light emission pattern. If the first condition is satisfied after the first specific operation has been performed, the first sound is restricted by the first specific operation, and the light emission means illuminates with the first light emission pattern.

[0157] Furthermore, in the gaming machine 10, the sound output control means (first sub-control board 200, sound control board 310) can output a first sound based on the fulfillment of the first condition, and can output a second sound based on the fulfillment of the second condition, the light emission control means can emit light from the light emission means with a first light emission pattern corresponding to the first sound, and can emit light from the light emission means with a second light emission pattern corresponding to the second sound, and if the first condition is fulfilled without the first specific operation that restricts the output of the first sound being performed, the second sound will be emitted without being subject to the restrictions related to the first specific operation. In other words, if the first condition is met after the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed, the output of the first sound is restricted; if the second condition is met after the first specific operation is performed and the first specific operation is performed, the second sound is output without being restricted by the first specific operation; if the second condition is met after the first specific operation is performed and the second specific operation is performed, the output of the second sound is restricted and the second specific operation is performed.

[0158] In particular, as mentioned above, in this embodiment, regardless of the type of copyrighted music, the music that is replaced when the output of copyrighted music is restricted is the same (music M13), and the manner of restriction is identical. This makes it easier to recognize that the output of copyrighted music has been restricted.

[0159] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the restriction on the output of the first sound when the first condition is met after the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed, and the restriction on the output of the second sound when the second condition is met after the first specific operation is performed, are the same.

[0160] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the song identification image ng, which can identify the type of copyrighted music, will continue to be displayed even after the music restriction operation has been performed and the output of copyrighted music has been restricted. According to this, even after restrictions have been placed on the release of copyrighted music, it becomes easier to recognize which copyrighted music is being released during which period. Furthermore, in order for this effect to be achieved, it is not necessary for the display of the song-specific image "ng" to continue for the entire duration after the song restriction operation has been performed and the output of the copyrighted song has been restricted; it is sufficient for the display of the song-specific image "ng" to continue for only a portion of that duration.

[0161] Next, as shown in Figure 18(a), in this embodiment, when a music restriction operation is performed and the music restriction mode is set, and after the display of the music restriction ticker tg1, which was started as a result of the music restriction operation, has ended, a prescribed time related to the music selection state has elapsed, and the output of the rights-protected music is restricted while the music restriction ticker tg1 remains hidden (the output of music M13, which is a replacement music, begins). In other words, in this embodiment, even if the condition for starting playback of a copyrighted song (the elapsed time related to the song selection state) is met while the song restriction mode is set, the song restriction ticker tg1 will not be displayed. However, if the condition for starting playback of a copyrighted song is met while the song restriction mode is set and the song restriction ticker tg1 is displayed, the display of the song restriction ticker tg1 will continue without ending when the condition for starting playback is met. In this example, the frame lamp 35 lights up in a light pattern corresponding to the copyrighted song after the start of the M13 track.

[0162] As shown in Figure 18(b), if a music restriction operation is performed and music restriction mode is set while a copyrighted music track is being played without restriction, the playback of that copyrighted music track will be restricted (and the replacement music track M13 will start playing), and the music restriction caption tg1 will be displayed. In this example, the frame lamp 35 remains lit with the illumination pattern corresponding to the copyrighted music both before and after setting the music restriction mode.

[0163] Furthermore, if the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously again while the music restriction mode is set and the music restriction caption tg1 is not displayed, the music restriction caption tg1 will start to be displayed. The display of this music restriction caption tg1 will continue for the same amount of time (50000ms) as when the music restriction operation related to setting the music restriction mode was performed, and then the music restriction caption tg1 will disappear. Although not shown in the diagram, if the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously again while the music restriction mode is set and the music restriction caption tg1 is displayed, the music restriction caption tg1 will continue to be displayed for 5000ms after the operation, and then it will disappear. In other words, pressing the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e simultaneously while the music restriction caption tg1 is displayed functions as an operation to extend the display period of the music restriction caption tg1.

[0164] Thus, in this embodiment, even if the conditions for starting playback of a copyrighted song are met while the song restriction mode is set, the song restriction caption tg1 is not displayed. However, if a song restriction operation is performed and the song restriction mode is set, the display of the song restriction caption tg1 is initiated as a result of the song restriction operation. According to this, when the music restriction mode is set and the conditions for starting the playback of a copyrighted song are met, the device (main display unit 81) that displays the music restriction caption tg1 will not interfere with other effects. This will contribute to improving the quality of gameplay videos published on video distribution sites and the like. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, it is not necessary for the music restriction caption tg1 to be displayed in some cases when music restriction operations are performed and music restriction mode is set. Furthermore, in the present invention, a device other than the main display unit 81 may be used as the device that performs notification (music restriction text tg1) that makes it possible to identify the state in which the music restriction mode is set.

[0165] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, a first specific notification (music restriction text tg1) that can identify that a restriction on the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is imposed is configured to be executable, the first specific operation may become effective during the period when the first sound is being played without being restricted by the first specific operation, the first specific notification will not be executed if the first condition is met after the first specific operation is performed, and the first specific notification may be executed if the first specific operation is performed during the period when the first sound is being played without being restricted by the first specific operation.

[0166] Next, as shown in Figure 19, if a music restriction operation is performed immediately before the end of the period during which a rights-protected song is being played when the music restriction mode is not set, and the period during which the rights-protected song is being played ends before the display time of the music restriction caption tg1, which was started to be displayed as a result of the music restriction operation, has elapsed, then the display of the music restriction caption tg1 will continue after the end of the period during which the rights-protected song is being played (after the end of the playback of song M13, which is a replacement song). The same applies if the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously immediately before the end of the period during which a rights-protected song is being played (the period during which song M13 is being played) when the music restriction mode is set, and the period during which the song is being played ends before the display time of the music restriction caption tg1, which was started to be displayed as a result of the operation, has elapsed. Furthermore, the same applies if, regardless of whether the music restriction mode is set or not, the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously immediately before the end of the sound output period of the original music, and the sound output period of the original music ends before the display time related to the music restriction caption tg1, which was started to be displayed as a result of the said operation, has elapsed. According to this, it becomes easier to recognize whether or not the music restriction mode is set, in situations where it is difficult to perceive whether or not the music restriction operation has been performed correctly and the playback of the copyrighted music is restricted, immediately before the end of the period during which copyrighted music can be played. In order to achieve this effect, the conditions for the termination of the music restriction caption tg1, which continues to be displayed even after the end of the playback period for the copyrighted music, are not limited to the time-based conditions of this embodiment, but may be various other conditions, as long as the event occurs in which the display of the music restriction caption tg1 continues even after the end of the playback period for the copyrighted music.

[0167] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the first specific notification (music restriction text tg1) ends after a specified time has elapsed, and if the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed during the period in which the first specific operation is played without being subject to restrictions related to the first specific operation, and if the period of playing the first sound ends before the specified time has elapsed, then the first specific notification will continue after the end of the period of playing the sound.

[0168] Next, as shown in Figure 20, in this embodiment, if a music restriction operation is performed while an original song (in this example, song M1) is playing when the music restriction mode is not set (music restriction mode OFF), a music restriction caption tg1 containing the text "Note 1) Music restriction mode has been set" is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81 as a result of the operation, and the playback of the original song is maintained (music restriction mode ON). The same applies when the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously while an original song is playing when the music restriction mode is set (music restriction mode ON). The display manner of these music restriction captions tg1 is the same as the display manner of the music restriction caption tg1 shown in Figure 17. Furthermore, when an original song is played, a song identification image ng, which allows the type of original song to be identified, is displayed in the display area, just as when a copyrighted song is played. This song identification image ng continues to be displayed even after the song restriction operation is performed. In addition, the display of a lyrics image kg, which allows the lyrics of the original song to be identified, is maintained.

[0169] Thus, in this embodiment, when an original song is played without any song restriction operation being performed (in a state where the song restriction mode is not set), the original song is played and the frame lamp 35 lights up with a light emission pattern corresponding to the original song. Furthermore, when an original song is played after a song restriction operation has been performed (in a state where the song restriction mode is set), the sound of the original song is maintained and the illumination of the frame lamp 35 with a light emission pattern corresponding to the original song is maintained. According to this, when publishing gameplay videos, it is possible to enhance the gameplay experience without restricting the output of original music. Furthermore, in music restriction mode, the output of the original music and the illumination of the frame lamp 35 with a corresponding light pattern make it easier to recognize the correspondence between the music and the light pattern. This contributes to enhancing the effect of making it easier to recognize which copyrighted music is being played even after the output of copyrighted music is restricted. Furthermore, similar to copyrighted music, which may give rise to copyright and other rights, original music is not limited to music as in this embodiment; it may also include sound effects or other audio elements.

[0170] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the sound output control means (first sub-control board 200, sound control board 310) is capable of outputting a predetermined sound based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions, and the light emission control means (first sub-control board 200) is capable of illuminating the light emission means with a predetermined light emission pattern corresponding to the predetermined sound. In both cases, whether the predetermined conditions are fulfilled without the first specific operation being performed, or whether the predetermined conditions are fulfilled after the first specific operation has been performed, the predetermined sound is output and the light emission means illuminates with a predetermined light emission pattern without being subject to the restrictions related to the first specific operation.

[0171] Next, as shown in Figure 21, in this embodiment, if a music restriction operation is performed during the playback period of an original song when the music restriction mode is not set, the music restriction mode is set and the music restriction caption tg1 is displayed. In this example, since the original song, which is not subject to restrictions in the song restriction mode, is being played, the sound of the original song and the illumination of the frame lamp 35 with the corresponding lighting pattern are maintained before and after setting the song restriction mode. This makes it easier to recognize when a music restriction operation has been performed during the playback period of an original song that is not subject to restriction in music restriction mode. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, it is acceptable that the display of the song restriction caption tg1 may not start in some cases when a song restriction operation is performed during the playback period of an original song in which the song restriction mode is not set.

[0172] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, a first specific notification (music restriction text tg1) that can identify that a restriction on the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is imposed is configured to be executable, the first specific operation may become effective during the period when a predetermined sound is being played, and if the first specific operation is performed during the period when the predetermined sound is being played, the first specific notification may be executed as a result of the first specific operation being performed.

[0173] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 21, in this embodiment, if a music restriction operation is performed during the playback period of an original song, setting the music restriction mode, and the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously again during the subsequent playback period, the music restriction ticker tg1 will be displayed. The display of the music restriction ticker tg1 will continue for the same amount of time (50000ms) as when the music restriction operation related to setting the music restriction mode was performed, and then the music restriction ticker tg1 will be hidden. The same applies if the playback of an original song starts after the music restriction mode has been set (while the music restriction mode is set), and the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously again during the playback period of the original song. According to these findings, even during the playback period of an original song when the song restriction mode is not set, it is possible to check whether or not the song restriction mode is set by simultaneously pressing the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, it is acceptable that the display of the music restriction text tg1 does not start in some cases when the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously.

[0174] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, if the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed again, the state in which the restriction related to the first specific operation is imposed is maintained. If the first specific operation is performed during the period in which predetermined conditions are met and predetermined sounds related to those predetermined conditions are being played, then the first specific notification (music restriction text tg1) may be executed as a result of the first specific operation being performed.

[0175] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the display pattern of the song restriction ticker tg1, which is executed when the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously during the sound output period of the original song, is the same as the display pattern of the song restriction ticker tg1, which is executed when the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously during the sound output period of the original song when the song restriction mode is set (including cases where the song restriction mode is set after the sound output period of the original song has started). According to this, it becomes less likely that the simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e during the sound output period of an original song (when the song restriction mode is already set) will be perceived as a meaningless operation.

[0176] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the notification pattern of the first specific notification (music restriction text tg1) that is executed when the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed during the period when a predetermined sound is being played before the first specific operation is performed is the same as the notification pattern of the first specific notification that is executed when the first specific operation is performed after the first specific operation has been performed, when a predetermined condition is met and a predetermined sound related to that predetermined condition is being played.

[0177] <Regarding the removal of the music restriction mode> Next, Figures 22 and 23 will be used to explain in detail how to disable the music restriction mode. Figure 22 shows a specific example of when the music restriction mode is terminated by a music release operation during a period when the output of copyrighted music is restricted. Figure 23 shows a specific example of what happens when the music is deactivated while the original music is playing.

[0178] As shown in Figure 22, in this embodiment, if a music release operation (simultaneous pressing of the upper cursor button 38a and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed during a period when the output of a copyrighted song (in this example, song M5) is restricted (when music restriction mode is ON and the original song, song M13, is being played), a music release caption tg2 containing the text "Note 2) Music restriction mode has been released" is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81, and the output of the copyrighted song, song M5, begins in place of the original song. In this embodiment, the music release caption tg2, like the music restriction caption tg1, is an image that disappears after a certain amount of time has elapsed since its display began (5000ms in this embodiment), and its display pattern is the same regardless of the type of copyrighted music that is subsequently played without restriction. The same applies to the special music release caption described later. Furthermore, the song identification image ng will remain displayed even after the song unlock operation is performed. In addition, the song unlock operation is an operation to remove the restriction on the output of copyrighted music. Therefore, the display of the lyrics image kg, which makes it possible to identify the lyrics of the song that was subject to output, will also be maintained.

[0179] Furthermore, the music release operation in this embodiment, like the music restriction operation, is effective not only during jackpot games, which are the period during which copyrighted music can be played, but also during periods other than jackpot games (minor jackpot games), such as during symbol changes. Therefore, no image prompting the music release operation is displayed. However, an image prompting the music release operation may be displayed at least for a portion of non-game periods other than during jackpot games and symbol changes.

[0180] Thus, in this embodiment, when a music restriction mode is set (music restriction mode OFF), the music restriction mode is terminated when the music restriction mode is deactivated. Furthermore, the system is configured to display a music deactivation caption tg2 that indicates that the music restriction mode is not set. This makes it easier to recognize that a song removal operation has been performed to disable the song restriction mode. In addition, in this invention, a device other than the main display unit 81 may be used as the device that performs notification to determine that the music restriction mode is not set, such as other devices provided on the game board 50.

[0181] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, if a second specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the upper cursor button 38a and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed while a restriction on the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is in place, a second specific notification (music release text tg2) that can identify that the state has ended and the restriction on the first specific operation has not been removed can be executed.

[0182] Furthermore, although not shown in the diagram, if the upper cursor button 38a and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously while a copyrighted song is playing when the song restriction mode is not set, a special song release text will be displayed as a result of this operation, similar to the example shown in Figure 22. However, the text included in this special song release text will read, "Note 2) An operation to release the song restriction mode has been performed," which differs in display from the song release text tg2 shown in Figure 22. This makes it easier to recognize whether or not the music restriction mode was already set when the operation in question was performed.

[0183] Next, as shown in Figure 23, in this embodiment, if a music release operation is performed while the music restriction mode is set (music restriction mode ON) and the original music track M1 is being played, a music release caption tg2 containing the text "Note 2) Music restriction mode has been released" is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81 as a result of the operation. According to this, even in situations where it is difficult to tell whether the music restriction mode is enabled or disabled, it becomes easier to recognize when the music restriction mode has been deactivated. In order to achieve this effect, in this embodiment, in some cases when the music release operation is performed while the music restriction mode is set and the original music track M1 is being played, the music release text tg2 may not be displayed.

[0184] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, a second specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the upper cursor button 38a and the middle cursor button 38e) may become effective during the period when a predetermined sound is being played, and if the second specific operation is performed during the period when the predetermined sound is being played, a second specific notification (music release text tg2) may be executed as a result of the second specific operation being performed.

[0185] Although not shown in the diagram, if the upper cursor button 38a and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously while an original song is playing when the song restriction mode is not set, a special song release message will be displayed as a result of this operation. According to this, it is possible to confirm that the music restriction mode is not set when the music restriction mode is not set and when an original song that is not affected by the music restriction mode is being played. In order to achieve this effect, it is possible to prevent the special song release text from being displayed in some cases when the upper cursor button 38a and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously while an original song is playing when the song restriction mode is not set.

[0186] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, if a second specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the upper cursor button 38a and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed while there is no restriction on the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e), this state is maintained, and if the second specific operation is performed during a period in which the predetermined conditions are met while there is no restriction on the first specific operation and the predetermined sound related to those predetermined conditions is being played, then the second specific notification (special music release text) may be executed as a result of the second specific operation being performed.

[0187] In particular, as mentioned above, the content of the text included in the special music release caption in this embodiment is "Note 2) An operation to release the music restriction mode has been performed," which differs in display from the music release caption tg2. According to this, when the operation is performed while the music restriction mode is not set and an original song that is not affected by the music restriction mode is being played, it becomes easier to recognize whether or not the music restriction mode was already set.

[0188] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the notification manner of the second specific notification (music release text tg2) that is executed when the second specific operation (up cursor button 38a and middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously) is performed during a period in which a predetermined sound is being played while a restriction on the first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is imposed is different from the notification manner of the second specific notification (special music release text) that is executed when the second specific operation is performed during a period in which a predetermined sound is being played while no restriction on the first specific operation is imposed.

[0189] <About lyrics restriction mode> Next, the details of the lyrics restriction mode according to this embodiment will be explained using Figures 24 to 28. Here, the lyrics restriction mode is a mode designed to make it difficult to infringe on rights related to images such as lyrics when publishing game videos, and this mode is set by the lyrics restriction operation. Figure 24 shows a specific example of when the lyrics restriction mode is set by the lyrics restriction operation while the lyrics image related to copyrighted music is being displayed. Figures 25(a), 25(b), and 26 are timing charts illustrating characteristic phenomena that occur with copyrighted music and lyrics restriction modes. Figure 27 shows a specific example of when the lyrics restriction mode is set by the lyrics restriction operation while the lyrics image related to the original song is being displayed. Figure 28 is a timing chart showing characteristic phenomena realized by the lyric images and lyric restriction mode related to the original song.

[0190] First, as shown in Figure 24, in this embodiment, if a lyrics restriction operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed while the lyrics image kg for a copyrighted song (in this example, song M5) is being displayed in a state where the lyrics restriction mode is not set (lyrics restriction mode OFF), a lyrics restriction caption tg3 containing the text "Note 3) Lyrics restriction mode has been set" is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81, and the lyrics image kg that allows the lyrics of the copyrighted song to be identified is hidden (lyrics restriction mode ON). In this embodiment, the lyrics restriction caption tg3 is an image that disappears after a certain amount of time has elapsed since the start of display (5000ms in this embodiment), similar to the song restriction caption described above, and its display manner is the same regardless of the type of copyrighted song whose lyrics are restricted.

[0191] Furthermore, the lyrics restriction operation in this embodiment is effective not only during jackpot games, which are periods when copyrighted music can be played, but also during periods other than jackpot games (minor jackpot games), such as during symbol changes. Therefore, similar to the music restriction operation, no image prompting the lyrics restriction operation is displayed. This also helps to deter the lyrics restriction mode from being set unintentionally. However, an image prompting the lyrics restriction operation may be displayed during at least some non-game periods other than jackpot games and during symbol changes.

[0192] Thus, in this embodiment, when a lyrics image kg relating to a copyrighted song is displayed without a lyrics restriction operation being performed (when the lyrics restriction mode is not set), the lyrics image kg relating to the copyrighted song is displayed, and the frame lamp 35 lights up with a light emission pattern corresponding to the copyrighted song. On the other hand, when a lyrics image kg relating to a copyrighted song is displayed after a lyrics restriction operation has been performed (when the lyrics restriction mode is set), the display of the lyrics image kg relating to the copyrighted song is restricted by making it invisible, and the illumination of the frame lamp 35 with a light emission pattern corresponding to the copyrighted song is maintained. According to this, while suppressing the occurrence of copyright infringement due to the display of the lyrics related to the copyrighted music during the public release of the game video, it is possible to easily recognize that the copyrighted image has been the display target after the display of the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted music has been restricted. In addition, as a method for restricting the display of the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted music, it is not limited to the method of non-display as in this embodiment, and any method may be adopted as long as it makes it difficult to perceive the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted music, such as overlapping another image in front of the lyrics image kg while maintaining the display of the lyrics image kg. Also, what can generate rights such as copyright is not limited to the lyrics image as in this embodiment, and images other than the lyrics image such as character images are also conceivable. Therefore, in the present invention, not only the lyrics image but also all images may be the target of restriction. The same applies to each invention described hereinafter.

[0193] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the display control means (the first sub-control board 200, the second sub-control board 300) can display the first image based on the satisfaction of the first condition, and the light emission control means (the first sub-control board 200) can cause the light emitting means to emit light with the first light emission pattern corresponding to the first image. When the first condition is satisfied without performing the first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) for restricting the display of the first image, the first image is displayed without being subject to the restriction related to the first predetermined operation, the light emitting means emits light with the first light emission pattern, and when the first condition is satisfied after the first predetermined operation is performed, the restriction related to the first predetermined operation is imposed on the first image, and the light emitting means emits light with the first light emission pattern. This can be paraphrased as such.

[0194] Also, in the gaming machine 10, the display control means (the first sub-control board 200 and the second sub-control board 300) can display a first image based on the satisfaction of a first condition, and can display a second image based on the satisfaction of a second condition. The light emission control means (the first sub-control board 200) can cause the light emitting means to emit light in a first light emission pattern corresponding to the first image, and can cause the light emitting means to emit light in a second light emission pattern corresponding to the second image. When the first condition is satisfied without performing a first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) that restricts the display of the first image, the first image is displayed without being subject to the restriction related to the first predetermined operation, the light emitting means emits light in the first light emission pattern, and when the first condition is satisfied after the first predetermined operation is performed, the display of the first image is restricted, the light emitting means emits light in the first light emission pattern, when the second condition is satisfied without performing the first predetermined operation, the second image is displayed without being subject to the restriction related to the first predetermined operation, the light emitting means emits light in the second light emission pattern, and when the second condition is satisfied after the first predetermined operation is performed, the display of the second image is restricted, and the light emitting means emits light in the second light emission pattern. This can be paraphrased as follows.

[0195] In particular, as described above, in this embodiment, regardless of the type of the copyrighted music, the display of the lyric image kg related to the copyrighted music is restricted by making the lyric image kg non-displayable, and it can be said that the restriction mode is the same. According to this, it is possible to make it easier to recognize that the display of the lyric image kg related to the copyrighted music is restricted.

[0196] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, it can be paraphrased that the restriction mode related to the display of the first image when the first condition is satisfied after the first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) is the same as the restriction mode related to the display of the second image when the second condition is satisfied after the first predetermined operation is performed.

[0197] Next, as shown in Figure 25(a), in this embodiment, when a lyrics restriction operation is performed and the lyrics restriction mode is set, and after the display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3, which was started as a result of the lyrics restriction operation, has finished, a predetermined time related to the song selection state has elapsed, and the display of the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song is restricted while the lyrics restriction caption tg3 remains hidden. In other words, in this embodiment, even if the display start condition for the lyrics image kg related to copyrighted music (elapsed time related to the music selection state) is met while the lyrics restriction mode is set, the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will not be displayed. However, if the display start condition for the lyrics image kg related to copyrighted music is met while the lyrics restriction mode is set and the lyrics restriction caption tg3 is being displayed, the display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will continue without ending as a result of the meeting of the display start condition. In this example, the frame lamp 35 lights up in a light pattern corresponding to the copyrighted song after the start of the M13 track.

[0198] As shown in Figure 25(b), if a lyrics restriction operation is performed and the lyrics restriction mode is set while the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song is being displayed without restriction, the display of the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song will be restricted, and the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will be displayed. In this example, the illumination of the frame lamp 35 with the light pattern corresponding to the copyrighted song is maintained (continued) before and after setting the lyrics restriction mode.

[0199] Furthermore, if the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously again while the lyrics restriction mode is set and the lyrics restriction caption tg3 is not displayed, the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will start to be displayed. The display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will continue for the same amount of time (50000ms) as when the lyrics restriction operation related to setting the lyrics restriction mode was performed, and then the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will disappear. Although not shown in the diagram, if the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously again while the lyrics restriction mode is set and the lyrics restriction caption tg3 is displayed, the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will continue to be displayed for 5000ms after the operation, and then it will disappear. In other words, pressing the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e simultaneously while the lyrics restriction caption tg3 is displayed functions as an operation to extend the display period of the lyrics restriction caption tg3.

[0200] Thus, in this embodiment, even if the conditions for starting the display of the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song are met while the lyrics restriction mode is set, the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will not be displayed. On the other hand, if a lyrics restriction operation is performed and the lyrics restriction mode is set, the display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will start as a result of the said lyrics restriction operation. According to this, when the conditions for starting the display of lyrics image kg related to copyrighted music are met while the lyrics restriction mode is set, the device (main display unit 81) that displays the lyrics restriction caption tg3 can avoid interfering with other effects. This contributes to improving the quality of gameplay videos published on video distribution sites and the like. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, it is not necessary for the display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 to start in some cases when the lyrics restriction operation is performed and the lyrics restriction mode is set. Furthermore, in the present invention, a device other than the main display unit 81 may be used as the device that performs notification (lyrics restriction ticker tg3) that makes it possible to identify the state in which the lyrics restriction mode is set.

[0201] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, a first predetermined notification (lyrics restriction telop tg3) that can identify a state in which a restriction on the first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) is imposed is configured to be executable, the first predetermined operation may become valid during the period when the first image is displayed without being restricted by the first predetermined operation, the first predetermined notification is not executed when the first condition is met after the first predetermined operation is performed, and the first predetermined notification may be executed when the first predetermined operation is performed during the period when the first image is displayed without being restricted by the first predetermined operation.

[0202] Next, as shown in Figure 26, if a lyrics restriction operation is performed immediately before the end of the period during which a lyrics image kg related to a copyrighted song is displayed when the lyrics restriction mode is not set, and the display period for the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song ends before the display time of the lyrics restriction caption tg3, which was started as a result of the lyrics restriction operation, has elapsed, then the display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will continue after the end of the display period for the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song. The same applies when the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously immediately before the end of the display period for the lyrics image kg related to a copyrighted song when the lyrics restriction mode is set, and the display period for the lyrics restriction caption tg3, which was started as a result of the operation, ends before the display period of that caption has elapsed. Furthermore, regardless of whether the lyrics restriction mode is set or not, if the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously immediately before the end of the display period for the lyrics image kg related to an original song, and the display period for the lyrics image kg related to an original song ends before the display time of the lyrics restriction caption tg3, which was started as a result of the operation, has elapsed, then the same applies. According to this, it becomes easier to recognize whether or not the lyrics restriction mode is set, in situations where it is difficult to perceive whether or not the lyrics restriction operation has been performed correctly and the display of the lyrics images kg related to copyrighted music has been restricted, immediately before the end of the display period for the lyrics images kg related to copyrighted music. In order to achieve this effect, the conditions for the termination of the lyrics restriction caption tg3, which continues to be displayed even after the display period of the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song has ended, are not limited to the time-based conditions of this embodiment, but various other conditions may be adopted, as long as the event occurs in which the display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 continues even after the display period of the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song has ended.

[0203] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the first predetermined notification (lyrics restriction text tg3) ends after a predetermined time has elapsed, and if the first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed during the period in which the first image is displayed without being subject to the first predetermined operation, and the display period for the display of the first image ends before the predetermined time has elapsed, then the first predetermined notification will continue after the end of the display period.

[0204] Next, as shown in Figure 27, in this embodiment, if a lyrics restriction operation is performed while the lyrics image kg for the original song (in this example, song M1) is being displayed when the lyrics restriction mode is not set (lyrics restriction mode OFF), a lyrics restriction caption tg3 containing the text "Note 3) Lyrics restriction mode has been set" is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81 as a result of the operation, and the display of the lyrics image kg for the original song is maintained (lyrics restriction mode ON). The same applies when the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously while the lyrics image kg for the original song is being displayed when the lyrics restriction mode is set (lyrics restriction mode ON). The display patterns of these lyrics restriction captions tg3 are the same as those shown in Figure 24.

[0205] Thus, in this embodiment, when the lyrics image kg related to the original song is displayed without any lyrics restriction operation being performed (when the lyrics restriction mode is not set), the lyrics image kg related to the original song is displayed, and the frame lamp 35 lights up with a light emission pattern corresponding to the original song. Furthermore, when the lyrics image kg related to the original song is displayed after a lyrics restriction operation has been performed (when the lyrics restriction mode is set), the display of the lyrics image kg related to the original song is maintained, and the illumination of the frame lamp 35 with a light emission pattern corresponding to the original song is maintained. According to this, when publishing gameplay videos, it is possible to enhance the gameplay experience without restricting the display of lyric images kg related to original songs. Furthermore, the display of lyric images kg related to the original song in the lyric restriction mode, along with the illumination of the frame lamp 35 with a corresponding light pattern for the original song, makes it easier to recognize the correspondence between the lyric images kg and the light pattern. This contributes to enhancing the effect of making it easier to recognize which copyrighted song is being played, even after the display of lyric images kg related to copyrighted songs is restricted. Furthermore, similar to the lyric images kg related to copyrighted music that may give rise to copyright and other rights, original music may also be accompanied by images other than lyric images, such as character images, rather than being limited to lyric images as in this embodiment.

[0206] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the display control means (first sub-control board 200, second sub-control board 300) is capable of displaying a predetermined image based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions, and the light emission control means (first sub-control board 200) is capable of emitting light from the light emission means in a predetermined light emission pattern corresponding to the predetermined image. In both cases, whether the predetermined conditions are fulfilled without the first predetermined operation being performed, or whether the predetermined conditions are fulfilled after the first predetermined operation has been performed, the predetermined image will be displayed and the light emission means will emit light in a predetermined light emission pattern without being restricted by the first predetermined operation.

[0207] Next, as shown in Figure 28, in this embodiment, if a lyrics restriction operation is performed during the display period of the lyrics image kg related to the original song when the lyrics restriction mode is not set, the lyrics restriction mode is set and the display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 is started. In this example, since the lyrics image kg related to the original song, which is not subject to restrictions in lyrics restriction mode, is displayed, the display of the lyrics image kg related to the original song and the illumination of the frame lamp 35 with the corresponding lighting pattern for that original song are maintained before and after setting lyrics restriction mode. This makes it easier to recognize when a lyrics restriction operation has been performed during the display period of lyrics images kg related to original songs that are not subject to restrictions in lyrics restriction mode. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, it is acceptable that the display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 may not start in some cases when a lyrics restriction operation is performed during the display period of the lyrics image kg for an original song in which the lyrics restriction mode is not set.

[0208] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, a first predetermined notification (lyrics restriction teleprompter tg3) is configured to be executable, which can identify that a restriction is being imposed on the first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e). The first predetermined operation may become effective during the period when the predetermined image is displayed, and if the first predetermined operation is performed during the period when the predetermined image is displayed, the first predetermined notification may be executed as a result of the first predetermined operation being performed.

[0209] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 28, in this embodiment, if a lyrics restriction operation is performed during the display period of the lyrics image kg related to the original song, setting the lyrics restriction mode, and then the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously again during the subsequent display period, the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will be displayed. The display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will continue for the same amount of time (50000ms) as when the lyrics restriction operation related to setting the lyrics restriction mode was performed, and then the lyrics restriction caption tg3 will be hidden. The same applies if the display of the lyrics image kg related to the original song is started after the lyrics restriction mode has been set (while the lyrics restriction mode is set), and then the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously again during the display period of the lyrics image kg related to the original song. According to these findings, even during the display period of the lyrics image kg for an original song when the lyrics restriction mode is not set, it is possible to check whether or not the lyrics restriction mode is set by simultaneously pressing the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, it is acceptable that the display of the lyrics restriction caption tg3 does not start in some cases when the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously.

[0210] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, if the first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed again, the state in which the restriction related to the first predetermined operation is imposed is maintained. If the first predetermined operation is performed after the first predetermined operation has been performed, and the predetermined conditions are met, and the first predetermined operation is performed during the period in which the predetermined image related to those predetermined conditions is displayed, then the first predetermined notification (lyrics restriction text tg3) may be executed as a result of the first predetermined operation being performed.

[0211] In this embodiment, during the display period of the lyric image kg related to the original music, the display mode of the lyric restriction caption tg3 executed when the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e related to the setting of the lyric restriction mode are pressed simultaneously, and during the display period of the lyric image kg related to the original music in a state where the lyric restriction mode is set (including the case where the lyric restriction mode is set after the display period of the lyric image kg related to the original music has started), the display mode of the lyric restriction caption tg3 executed when the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously, are the same. According to this, it is possible to make it difficult to recognize the simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e during the display period of the lyric image kg related to the original music (in a state where the lyric restriction mode is already set) as a meaningless operation.

[0212] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the notification mode of the first predetermined notification (lyric restriction caption tg3) executed when the first predetermined operation (right cursor button 38d and middle cursor button 38e) is performed during the period when the predetermined image before the first predetermined operation is displayed, and the notification mode of the first predetermined notification executed when the first predetermined operation is performed during the period when the predetermined condition is satisfied after the first predetermined operation and the predetermined image related to the predetermined condition is displayed, are the same, which can be paraphrased as such.

[0213] <Regarding the cancellation of the lyric restriction mode> Next, the details regarding the cancellation of the lyric restriction mode will be described using FIGS. 29 and 30. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a specific example when the setting of the lyric restriction mode ends by a lyric cancellation operation during the period when the display of the lyric image related to the licensed music is restricted. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a specific example when a lyric cancellation operation is performed during the display of the lyric image related to the original music.

[0214] As shown in Figure 29, in this embodiment, if a lyric release operation (in this embodiment, simultaneous pressing of the down cursor button 38b and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed during a period when the display of the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song (in this example, song M5) is restricted (when the lyric release mode is ON and the original song M5 is being played due to the song restriction mode being OFF), a lyric release caption tg4 containing the text "Note 4) Lyrics restriction mode has been released" is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81, and the display of the lyrics image kg related to the copyrighted song M5 begins. In this embodiment, the lyrics release caption tg4, like the lyrics restriction caption tg3, is an image that disappears after a certain amount of time has elapsed since its display began (5000ms in this embodiment), and its display manner is the same regardless of the type of copyrighted song relating to the lyrics image kg that is subsequently displayed without restriction. The same applies to the special lyrics release caption described later.

[0215] Furthermore, the lyric release operation in this embodiment, like the lyric restriction operation, is effective not only during jackpot games, which are periods when copyrighted music can be played, but also during periods other than jackpot games (minor jackpot games), such as during symbol changes. Therefore, no image prompting the lyric release operation is displayed. However, an image prompting the lyric release operation may be displayed at least for a portion of non-game periods other than during jackpot games and symbol changes.

[0216] Thus, in this embodiment, when a lyrics release operation is performed while the lyrics restriction mode is set (lyrics restriction mode OFF), that state ends. Furthermore, the system is configured to display a lyrics release caption tg4 that indicates that the lyrics restriction mode is not set. This makes it easier to recognize that a lyric removal operation has been performed to disable the lyric restriction mode. In addition, in this invention, a device other than the main display unit 81 may be used as the device that performs notification to determine that the lyrics restriction mode is not set, such as other devices provided on the game board 50.

[0217] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, if a second predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the down cursor button 38b and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed while a restriction on the first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) is in place, a second predetermined notification (lyrics release ticker tg4) that can identify that the state has ended and the restriction on the first predetermined operation has not been removed can be executed.

[0218] Furthermore, although not shown in the diagram, if the down cursor button 38b and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously while the lyrics image kg related to a copyrighted song is being displayed when the lyrics restriction mode is not set, a special lyrics release caption will be displayed as a result of this operation, similar to the example shown in Figure 29. However, the content of the text included in this special lyrics release caption will be "Note 4) An operation to release the lyrics restriction mode has been performed," which differs in display from the lyrics release caption tg4 shown in Figure 29. This makes it easier to recognize whether or not the lyrics restriction mode was already set when the operation in question was performed.

[0219] Next, as shown in Figure 30, in this embodiment, if a lyrics release operation is performed while the lyrics restriction mode is set (lyrics restriction mode ON) and the lyrics image kg for the original song M1 is displayed, a lyrics release caption tg4 containing the text "Note 4) Lyrics restriction mode has been released" is displayed in the display area of ​​the main display unit 81 as a result of the operation. According to this, even in situations where it is difficult to tell whether the lyrics restriction mode is enabled or disabled, it becomes easier to recognize when the lyrics restriction mode has been deactivated. In order to achieve this effect, in this embodiment, in some cases when the lyrics release operation is performed while the lyrics restriction mode is set and the lyrics image kg related to the original song M1 is displayed, the lyrics release caption tg4 may not be displayed.

[0220] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, a second predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the down cursor button 38b and the middle cursor button 38e) may become effective during the period when a predetermined image is displayed, and if the second predetermined operation is performed during the period when the predetermined image is displayed, a second predetermined notification (lyrics release text tg4) may be executed as a result of the second predetermined operation.

[0221] Although not shown in the diagram, if the down cursor button 38b and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously while the lyrics image kg for the original song is being displayed when the lyrics restriction mode is not set, a special lyrics release caption will be displayed as a result of that operation. According to this, it is possible to confirm that lyrics restriction mode is not set when displaying lyrics image kg related to an original song that is not affected by lyrics restriction mode, even when lyrics restriction mode is not set. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, when the lyrics image kg for the original song is displayed while the lyrics restriction mode is not set, the special lyrics release text may be prevented from being displayed in some cases when the down cursor button 38b and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously.

[0222] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, if a second predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the down cursor button 38b and the middle cursor button 38e) is performed while there are no restrictions on the first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e), this state is maintained, and if the predetermined conditions are met while there are no restrictions on the first predetermined operation, and the second predetermined operation is performed during the period in which the predetermined image related to those predetermined conditions is displayed, then the second predetermined notification (special lyrics release telop) may be executed as a result of the second predetermined operation being performed.

[0223] In particular, as mentioned above, the content of the text included in the special lyric release caption in this embodiment is "Note 4) An operation to release the lyric restriction mode has been performed," which differs in display from the lyric release caption tg4. According to this, when the lyrics restriction mode is not set and the lyrics image kg related to an original song that is not affected by the lyrics restriction mode is being displayed, it becomes easier to recognize whether or not the lyrics restriction mode was already set when the operation is performed.

[0224] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, the notification manner of the second predetermined notification (lyrics release telop tg4) that is executed when the second predetermined operation (down cursor button 38b and middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously) is performed during a period when a predetermined image is displayed while a restriction on the first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) is imposed is different from the notification manner of the second predetermined notification (special lyrics release telop) that is executed when the second predetermined operation is performed during a period when a predetermined condition is met and a predetermined image related to that predetermined condition is displayed while the restriction on the first predetermined operation is not imposed.

[0225] <Regarding other variations> The following are variations not described above.

[0226] First, in the embodiment described above, the control related to the music restriction mode and the control related to the lyrics restriction mode were independent of each other, but they may be related to each other. Specifically, in at least some cases when the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously, a lyrics restriction caption tg3 may be displayed in addition to the song restriction caption tg1 indicating that the song restriction mode is set. Similarly, in at least some cases when the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously, a song restriction caption tg1 may be displayed in addition to the lyrics restriction caption tg3. According to these methods, it becomes possible to smoothly check whether or not restriction modes are set for audio and images, which are prone to copyright and other rights issues when publishing gameplay videos. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, the conditions for displaying both the song restriction caption tg1 and the lyrics restriction caption tg3 are not limited to simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e, or the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e. Any condition is acceptable as long as the system is configured so that the other caption is displayed when one caption is displayed. Furthermore, when displaying both the music restriction caption tg1 and the lyrics restriction caption tg3, it is preferable that these images are displayed so that they do not overlap with each other.

[0227] Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, a first specific notification (music restriction text tg1) that can identify a state in which a restriction on a first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is imposed is configured to be executable, and a first predetermined notification (lyrics restriction text tg3) that can identify a state in which a restriction on a first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) is imposed is configured to be executable, and in at least part of the cases in which the first specific notification is executed, the first predetermined notification is executed.

[0228] Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute a first specific notification (music restriction text tg1) that can identify a state in which a restriction on a first specific operation (simultaneous pressing of the left cursor button 38c and the middle cursor button 38e) is imposed, and a first predetermined notification (lyrics restriction text tg3) that can identify a state in which a restriction on a first predetermined operation (simultaneous pressing of the right cursor button 38d and the middle cursor button 38e) is imposed, and in other words, the first specific notification is executed in at least part of the cases in which the first predetermined notification is executed.

[0229] Similarly, in at least some cases when the upper cursor button 38a and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously, a song release caption tg2 (which may also be a special song release caption) indicating that the song restriction mode is not set may be displayed, as well as a lyrics release caption tg4 (which may also be a special lyrics release caption). Similarly, in at least some cases when the lower cursor button 38b and the middle cursor button 38e are pressed simultaneously, a song release caption tg2 may be displayed in addition to the lyrics release caption tg4. These features also make it easier to check whether or not restriction modes are set for audio and images, which are prone to copyright and other rights issues when publishing gameplay videos. Furthermore, in order to achieve this effect, the conditions for displaying both the music release caption tg2 and the lyrics release caption tg4 are not limited to simultaneous pressing of the upper cursor button 38a and the middle cursor button 38e, or the lower cursor button 38b and the middle cursor button 38e. As long as the system is configured so that the other caption is displayed when one caption is displayed, the conditions are not restricted. In addition, when displaying both the music release caption tg2 and the lyrics release caption tg4, it is preferable that these images are displayed so that they do not overlap each other.

[0230] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the consecutive win counter was reset when the game transitioned to a normal low probability state (special symbol variation pattern derivation state PA) excluding during a big win game. However, the consecutive win counter may be reset when a predetermined number of symbol variations (for example, 30 times) (which may be limited to symbol variations related to special symbol 1) have been performed (completed) after transitioning to the normal low probability state. In other words, if a new big win game occurs when the number of symbol variations performed in the normal high probability state is less than the predetermined number, it may be treated as a consecutive win.

[0231] Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment employs a so-called Type 1 and Type 2 mixed machine that can derive both a big win and a small win that can generate a big win game in the special symbol win / loss determination, but it is not limited to this, and a machine that can derive only a so-called Type 2 win may also be employed.

[0232] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the probabilities, ratios, frequencies, and the number of occurrences may be such that the smaller value is 0, or the larger value is the maximum value, as long as the respective relationships are guaranteed. In particular, regarding the high and low levels of each ratio mentioned above, the control used to achieve these levels is not limited, as long as the phenomenal aspects are guaranteed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, each lottery value in the illustrated lottery table is merely an example, and any value within that range may be adopted for each lottery value, as long as the relative order of the lottery tables is maintained.

[0233] Furthermore, while the above explanation refers to the state of the RAM clear switch 43 at the time of power restoration to determine the recovery state, it may also be possible to refer to whether the time the RAM clear switch 43 has been in the ON state since power restoration exceeds a specified time (for example, 3 seconds). Doing so would further reduce the occurrence of incorrect RAM clear processing.

[0234] Furthermore, in the above explanation, the state of the middle frame door open sensor 76 (the open / closed state of the middle frame 17) was referred to when determining the recovery state upon power restoration. However, the recovery state may be set without referring to this state. In this case, the recovery state upon power restoration should be set uniformly according to the case where the middle frame door open sensor 76 is ON (the middle frame 17 is in the open state).

[0235] Furthermore, although omitted in the description of this embodiment above, the volume of the sound output from the speaker 33 can be adjusted in steps (specifically, in 10 steps) based on the operation. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the amount of light (brightness) in the light-emitting means such as the main display unit 81 and the frame lamp 35 can be adjusted in steps based on the operation.

[0236] The present invention as described above is not limited to the above description, but also includes various modifications, improvements, and other forms as long as the objectives of the present invention are achieved.

[0237] <Note> This embodiment encompasses the following technical concepts. (1) Sound output method, A sound output control means for controlling the sound output means, Light-emitting means, A light emission control means for controlling the light emission means, Equipped with, The sound output control means is capable of outputting the first sound based on the fulfillment of the first condition. The light emission control means is capable of emitting light in a first light emission pattern corresponding to the first sound, If the first condition is met without the first specific operation being performed to restrict the output of the first sound, the first sound is output without being restricted by the first specific operation, and the light-emitting means emits light in the first light-emitting pattern. If the first condition is satisfied after the first specific operation is performed, the first sound is restricted in relation to the first specific operation, and the light-emitting means emits light in the first light-emitting pattern. A gaming machine characterized by the following features. (2) The gaming machine described in (1) above, The system is configured to enable the execution of a first specific notification that can identify that the restrictions on the first specific operation described above will be imposed. During the period in which the first sound is being emitted without being subject to the restrictions relating to the first specific operation, the first specific operation may become effective. If the first condition is met after the first specific operation is performed, the first specific notification is not executed as a result of the first condition being met. If the first specific operation is performed during the period in which the first sound is being emitted without being subject to the restrictions relating to the first specific operation, the first specific notification may be executed as a result of the first specific operation being performed. A gaming machine characterized by the following features. (3) The gaming machine described in (2) above, The aforementioned first specific notification will terminate after a specified time has elapsed. If the first specific operation is performed during the period in which the first sound is emitted without being subject to the restrictions relating to the first specific operation, and the period of sound emission relating to the first sound ends before the elapsed of the prescribed time, then the first specific notification continues after the end of the period of sound emission. A gaming machine characterized by the following features. [Explanation of symbols]

[0238] 10 Gaming Machines 15 Outer frame 17 Middle frame 20 Front frame 21 Hinge mechanism 22 Movable ornaments 23 Cylinder lock 25 Transparent component 27 Upper ball tray 29 Lower ball tray 31 Operating handle 32 Upper frame part 33 (33a, 33b) Speaker 34a, 34b Left and right side frame sections 35 (35a, 35b, 35c) Frame Lamp 36 Ball Removal Mechanism 37 Performance Button 38 Cursor buttons 38a Up cursor button 38b Down cursor button 38c Left cursor button 38d Right cursor button 38e Middle cursor button 39 Main control unit 39a Ball dispensing button 39b Return button 40 Power switch 43 RAM Clear Switch 45 Opening and closing cover 46 Game ball tank 47 Tank Rail 48 Dispensing Unit 49. Dispensing passage 50 game boards 50a Gaming area 51 Outer rail 52 Windmill 53 Inner rail 54 Protective component 55 Grand Prize Winners 57 First Starter Port 59 Second Starter Port 61 Standard Electric Mechanism 62 Standard Electric Solenoid Gate 63 65 Special Electric Mechanism 66 Special Electric Solenoid 67 General Prize Winners 69 Outlet 70. First start port sensor 71 Second start port sensor 72 Large Prize Entrance Sensor 73 General Prize Entrance Sensor 74 Gate Sensors 75 Out ball sensor 76. Inner frame door opening sensor 77 Front frame door open sensor 80 Performance display device 81 Main display unit 82 Sub-display section 82a Upper sub-display section 82b Left sub-display section 82c Right sub-display 90 Pattern Display Device 91. First Special Pattern Display Device 92 Second Special Pattern Display Device 93 Standard Pattern Display Device 94. First Special Symbol Hold Lamp 95. Second Special Symbol Hold Lamp 96 Normal Symbol Hold Lamp 100 Main control board 101 CPU 102 ROM 103 RAM 104 I / O ports 105 Random Number Circuit 109 Main control board case 110 Ball entrance determination method 115 Main Random Number Generation Method 120 Main hold control means 125 Pre-determination means 130 Special drawing method 131 Special Feature Approval / Disapproval Determination Method 132 Special Symbol Stopping Symbol Lottery Method 133 Special Pattern Variation Derivation Method 135 General drawing lottery method 140 Jackpot Game Control Means 145 Pattern display control means 150 Electric control means for mechanical devices 155 Game state control means 160 Main Information Storage Means 165 Main Error Control Means 170 Main command management method 175 Power restoration processing execution means 176 Recovery state setting means 179 Means for transitioning to a playable state 180 Power interruption processing execution means 200 First Sub-Control Board 201 CPU 202 ROM 203 RAM 204 I / O port 209 First sub-control board case 210 Sub-random number generation means 220 Normal effect control means 221 Effect mode control means 222 Effect route determination means 223 Sub-hold control means 224 Pre-read effect control means 225 Effect content determination means 226 Decoration symbol control means 227 Big win effect control means 230 Sub-error control means 240 Lamp control means 245 Movable accessory control means 260 Sub-information storage means 270 Sub-command management means 300 Second sub-control board 309 Second sub-control board case 310 Audio control board 311 CPU 312 ROM 313 RAM 314 I / O port 400 payout control board 409 payout control board case 500 power control board 501 normal power circuit 502 backup power circuit 503 power failure detection circuit 509 power control board case 811 display area 812 display area 813 display area X First flow path Y Second flow path sg Selected music specific image mg meter image bg button image rg cumulative display image hg background image ng music specific image kg lyrics image tg1 Music restriction caption tg2 Music restriction caption tg3 Lyrics Restriction Caption tg4 Lyrics Removal Subtitles

Claims

1. Sound output method, A sound output control means for controlling the sound output means, Light-emitting means, A light emission control means for controlling the light emission means, Equipped with, The sound output control means is capable of outputting the first song based on the fulfillment of the first condition, The light emission control means is capable of emitting light in a first light emission pattern corresponding to the first song, If the first condition is met without the first specific operation that restricts the output of the first musical piece being performed, the first musical piece will be output without being subject to the restriction related to the first specific operation, and the light-emitting means will emit light in the first light-emitting pattern. If the first condition is met after the first specific operation is performed, the first song is restricted in relation to the first specific operation, and the light-emitting means emits light in the first light-emitting pattern. A specific display corresponding to the first musical piece can be performed. When the first specific operation is performed, the restrictions related to the first specific operation are applied to the first song, and the specific display is maintained. A first specific notification can be given that can identify that the restrictions on the first specific operation described above are being imposed. The aforementioned first specific notification may be terminated based on the elapsed time. If a new first specific operation is performed while the first specific notification is being executed, the first specific notification will continue, and the first specific notification will terminate based on the elapsed time since the first specific operation was performed. If a new first specific operation is performed while the first specific operation is restricted to the first song after the first specific notification has ended, a new first specific notification is started, and the notification mode of the new first specific notification is the same as the notification mode of the first specific notification that ended before the new first specific operation was performed. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

2. Sound output method, A sound output control means for controlling the sound output means, Light-emitting means, A light emission control means for controlling the light emission means, Equipped with, The sound output control means is capable of outputting the first song based on the fulfillment of the first condition, The light emission control means is capable of emitting light in a first light emission pattern corresponding to the first song, If the first condition is met without the first specific operation that restricts the output of the first musical piece being performed, the first musical piece will be output without being subject to the restriction related to the first specific operation, and the light-emitting means will emit light in the first light-emitting pattern. If the first condition is met after the first specific operation is performed, the first song is restricted in relation to the first specific operation, and the light-emitting means emits light in the first light-emitting pattern. Lyrics may be displayed during the output of the first musical piece. If the first specific operation is performed while the first song is being played and the lyrics are being displayed, the restrictions related to the first specific operation are imposed on the first song, and the lyrics display is maintained. A first specific notification can be given that can identify that the restrictions on the first specific operation described above are being imposed. The aforementioned first specific notification may be terminated based on the elapsed time. If a new first specific operation is performed while the first specific notification is being executed, the first specific notification will continue, and the first specific notification will terminate based on the elapsed time since the first specific operation was performed. If a new first specific operation is performed while the first specific operation is restricted to the first song after the first specific notification has ended, a new first specific notification is started, and the notification mode of the new first specific notification is the same as the notification mode of the first specific notification that ended before the new first specific operation was performed. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

Images