Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of improving amusement properties of a game.SOLUTION: When a lottery is performed every time a game medium enters a predetermined region during a second period, and a specific result is obtained continuously, performance control means can execute a performance related to a special game in a mode according to the specific result. When a result of a lottery relating to the entry of the last game medium among a plurality of game media that have entered the predetermined region during the second period is a second result, the performance control means can also execute the performance continuously in the next special game executed when a plurality of game media enter the predetermined region during the second period next. When a result of a lottery relating to the entry of the last game medium of the plurality of game media that have entered the predetermined region during the second period is a second result, the performance control means can execute a special performance for adding at least a game value amount that can be acquired in the next special game that is executed when the plurality of game media enter the predetermined region during the second period next to a game value amount that can be acquired in the current special game, and notifying accordingly.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 26

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

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

[0003] [[ID=1⑥]]Also, in this type of gaming machine, there is an effect that promotes the entry of a gaming ball into a second starting port at a predetermined timing, and when two gaming balls enter the second starting port, there is an effect that notifies the number of prize balls that can be obtained (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

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

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

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To achieve the above objective, the gaming machine of the present invention is A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A predetermined area (second starting port 49) provided in the aforementioned game area, A movable member (ordinary mechanism 54) capable of changing the ease with which the game ball enters the predetermined area, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means (performance control means 300) that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, It comprises a display means (liquid crystal display 32), The main control means is A special lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that conducts a lottery for the execution of a special game based on the entry of a game medium into the predetermined area, A special game control means (special game execution means 260) for controlling the execution of the aforementioned special game, A movable member control means (ordinary mechanism control means 224) controls the movable member to operate between a first state in which it is difficult for the game medium to enter the predetermined area and a second state in which it is easy for the game medium to enter the predetermined area. The game includes a game state transition control means (game state transition control means 250) that controls the transition of the game state between a plurality of game states, including a normal state in which the movable member is less likely to enter the second state and a specific state in which the movable member is more likely to enter the second state. The modes by which the movable member control means brings the movable member to the second state include a first mode in which the movable member is brought to the second state over a first period of time, and a second mode in which the movable member is brought to the second state over a second period of time that is longer than the first period. The aforementioned specific state includes a first specific state and a second specific state, each having a different probability of the movable member being in the second state in the second embodiment, wherein the probability of the first specific state is higher than that of the second specific state. In the first specific state or the second specific state, during the second period in which the movable member is in the second state in the second aspect, multiple game media can enter the predetermined area. The results of the aforementioned lottery include specific results related to the execution of the aforementioned special game, Each time a game medium enters the predetermined area during the second period, the lottery is performed, and if the specific result is obtained consecutively, the special game based on the previous specific result is performed, followed by the special game based on the next specific result. The aforementioned specific result includes at least a first result and a second result, wherein the second result is greater than the first result in terms of the amount of game value obtainable based on the execution of the special game. The main control means is If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the first result, then after the execution of the special game based on the first result, the system will transition to the second specific state. If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, then after the execution of the special game based on the second result, the system will transition to the first specific state. The aforementioned performance control means is Each time a game medium enters the predetermined area during the second period, the lottery is performed, and if the specific result is obtained consecutively, the special game performance can be executed in a manner corresponding to the combination of the specific results. If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, then the performance can be continued in the next special game that is executed when the multiple game media enter the predetermined area during the second period. If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, a special effect can be performed to announce the amount of game value that can be obtained in the next special game, which will be executed when the multiple game media enter the predetermined area during the second period, by adding this amount to the amount of game value that can be obtained in the current special game.

[0008] If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, then the performance (performance related to the special game) will continue to be performed in the next special game, which will be executed when the multiple game media enter the predetermined area during the second period. This allows the player to experience the performance for a longer period of time and gives the player the impression that the special game is continuing for a long time. This can give the player a sense of satisfaction and improve the enjoyment of the game. In addition, by continuing to perform the special performance, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling that there is a break between the current special game and the next special game, and allow the player to feel a sense of unity that a series of special games are being performed. This can improve the enjoyment of the game. Furthermore, if the result of the lottery related to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, a special effect may be performed to notify the player of the amount of game value that can be obtained in the next special game, which will be executed when the multiple game media enter the predetermined area during the second period, by adding this amount to the amount of game value that can be obtained in the current special game. When the special effect is performed, the player can understand that the result of the lottery related to the entry of the last of the multiple game media is the second result. In other words, the player can understand in advance that they will be given the opportunity to play the next special game. As a result, the player can be filled with joy. This can enhance the enjoyment of the game. [Effects of the Invention]

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

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention, illustrating its external configuration. [Figure 2] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. [Figure 3] It is a front view showing the external configuration of the state display unit. [Figure 4] It is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing the normal winning lottery table. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing the normal symbol lottery table. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing the big win lottery table. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing the symbol lottery table. [Figure 9] It is a state transition diagram of the gaming state. [[ID=2l]] [Figure 10] It is a diagram for explaining the display of the effect symbols and the hold symbols. [Figure 11] It is a diagram for explaining the type of win. [Figure 12] It is a diagram for explaining the transition of the gaming state. [Figure 13] It is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the control of the main control board and the display of the liquid crystal. [Figure 14] It is a diagram for explaining the special bonus effect. [Figure 15] It is a diagram for explaining the special RUSH effect. [Figure 16] It shows the gaming machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram for explaining the effect. (a) shows the effect executed based on the long opening of the normal accessory, (b) shows the effect being executed when the first game ball enters during the long opening, and (c) shows the effect being executed when the second game ball enters during the long opening. [Figure 17] It is a diagram for explaining the display related to the bonus effect. (a) shows an example of the display when the special game starts after the second game ball enters during the long opening, and (b) shows an example of the display when the special game has already started before the second game ball enters during the long opening. [Figure 18]This is a diagram used to explain the irregular winning animation. [Figure 19] This diagram illustrates the relationship between the control of the main control board and the display of the liquid crystal. [Figure 20] This diagram illustrates a gaming machine according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and is intended to explain the episode bonus presentation. [Figure 21] This is a diagram illustrating the sequence of events that takes place after the Episode Bonus sequence ends. [Figure 22] This diagram illustrates the control involved in the execution of the episode bonus sequence. [Figure 23] This diagram illustrates the control involved in the execution of the episode bonus sequence. [Figure 24] This diagram illustrates another control mechanism related to the execution of the episode bonus sequence. [Figure 25] This diagram illustrates another control mechanism related to the execution of the episode bonus sequence. [Figure 26] This diagram is intended to explain the additional bonus effects that are performed during the execution of the special bonus effect. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] (First Embodiment) Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, "front and back" basically means that when the player is in front of the game machine, the player's side is "front" and the game machine side is "back." "Up and down" means that the top surface of the game machine is "up" and the bottom surface is "down." "Left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing the game machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right." This embodiment will be explained using the application of the present invention to a pachinko game machine as an example, but the present invention is not limited to pachinko game machines and may be applied to other game machines as well.

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a gaming machine according to this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is used to play games using game balls (game medium, game value) rented from a game hall, and comprises an outer frame 2 that forms the outer surface of the gaming machine, a game board 6 provided inside the gaming machine that forms a game area 4 on which the game balls move, an inner frame 7 that holds the game board 6, a glass unit 8 that makes the game board 6 visible to the player but inaccessible to the player, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so as to be able to be opened and closed. The front frame 10 is also attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be able to be opened and closed. The inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) that blocks the opening of the outer frame 2 and an open position (open state) that opens the opening of the outer frame 2.

[0013] The portion of the front frame 10 surrounding the glass unit 8 is made of a translucent material that transmits light, and multiple front frame lamps 12 that emit special effects lights to enhance the game are provided inside the portion made of the translucent material. In addition, speakers 14 (sound devices, sound output means) that emit special effects sounds to enhance the game are provided on the left and right sides of the upper part and the left and right sides of the lower part of the front frame 10.

[0014] An upper tray 16 for storing game balls is provided at the lower center of the front frame 10, and a payout opening 18 for dispensing game balls from the game machine to the player is provided on the left side of the inner side of the upper tray 16. A grip unit 20 is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when the player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the game machine, a launching device (not shown) located inside the game machine is activated and game balls are launched into the game area 4. The launching device in this embodiment can launch 99 game balls per minute (1.65 per second).

[0015] A supply port 22 for supplying game balls from the upper tray 16 to the launching device is provided on the right side of the inner side of the upper tray 16. Below the upper tray 16, a lower tray 24 is provided for storing excess game balls when the upper tray 16 can no longer hold them all.

[0016] Furthermore, a performance button 26 (performance control means) is provided on the front edge of the upper tray 16, and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance displayed on the game machine changes.

[0017] Figure 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the game board 6 is provided with a circular outer rail 28, and the area enclosed by the outer rail 28 is the game area 4 on which the game balls move. In addition, an inner rail 30 is provided in an arc shape along the outer rail 28 at the left end of the game area 4, and the outer rail 28 and inner rail 30 guide the game balls launched from a launching device (not shown) located below the game board 6 into the game area 4.

[0018] In the center of the game board 6, there is a performance unit 36 ​​which includes a liquid crystal display 32 (performance display device, display means) that displays performance images and the like to enhance the game, and a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. Above the center of the liquid crystal display 32, there is a lighting device 38 (lighting means) which constitutes the performance unit 36 ​​and outputs performance lights and the like to enhance the game.

[0019] In this embodiment, the game balls are prevented from passing in front of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game balls launched from the launcher fall into either the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 or the game area 4b on the right side. In addition, numerous game pins (not shown) are driven into the game area 4 so as to intersect with the surface of the game board 6, causing the direction of movement of the game balls as they move through the game area 4 to change randomly.

[0020] Furthermore, an opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34, through which game balls falling from the game area 4a to the left of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass. Game balls that pass through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 located below the liquid crystal display 32. The upper surface of this stage 44 is a smooth curved surface, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8, allowing game balls to fall downwards from the stage 44. Game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth on the stage 44 before falling downwards from near the center of the stage 44.

[0021] Below the center of the stage 44, there is a first starting port 46 (first area) into which game balls that have fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44 can enter. Inside the first starting port 46, there is a first starting port switch 100 (see Figure 4) that detects game balls that have entered the first starting port 46. When the first starting port switch 100 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the first starting port 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then executes the first special symbol lottery (first lottery) as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the first starting port switch 100. The main control board 200 also causes the payout device 130 (see Figure 4) to dispense a prize ball (1 ball) based on the input of the detection signal from the first starting port switch 100. Furthermore, any game balls that enter the first starting opening 46 are collected inside the game machine.

[0022] To the left of the first start opening 46 in the game area 4, there are multiple (3) general prize openings 47 (upper left general prize opening 47a, left-center general prize opening 47b, and lower left general prize opening 47c). The game board 6 is also equipped with a general prize opening switch 101 (see Figure 4) that detects game balls that have entered the upper left general prize opening 47a, left-center general prize opening 47b, or lower left general prize opening 47c. When the general prize opening switch 101 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the upper left general prize opening 47a, left-center general prize opening 47b, or lower left general prize opening 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the detection signal input from the general prize opening switch 101, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to execute the payout operation of prize balls (3 balls). Furthermore, one general prize slot switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general prize slot 47a, the left middle general prize slot 47b, and the lower left general prize slot 47c, or one may be provided for multiple (for example, three) general prize slots 47. In addition, general prize slots 47 and general prize slot switches corresponding to these general prize slots may also be provided.

[0023] Furthermore, a passage gate 48 is provided in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, through which game balls pass without being collected inside the game machine. A gate switch 102 (see Figure 4) is also installed inside the passage gate 48 to detect when a game ball has passed through. When the gate switch 102 detects a game ball (passing through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then performs a regular symbol lottery to determine whether a regular win has occurred, based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102.

[0024] Furthermore, a second start port 49 (a predetermined area, a second area) is provided below the passage gate 48 in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32. Inside the second start port 49, a second start port switch 103 (see Figure 4) is installed to detect game balls that have entered the second start port 49. When the second start port switch 103 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the second start port 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then executes a second special symbol lottery (second lottery) as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. The main control board 200 also causes the payout device 130 to dispense a prize ball (1 ball) based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. Game balls that have entered the second start port 49 are collected inside the game machine.

[0025] The second starting opening 49 is provided with a standard mechanism 54 (movable member) that can operate between a reduced state (closed state, first state) (a state in which it is difficult for game balls to enter the second starting opening 49) and an enlarged state (open state, second state) (a state in which it is easy for game balls to enter the second starting opening 49). The standard mechanism 54 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid and is controlled to open under predetermined conditions when a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery. When a game ball moving through the game area 4 enters (passes through) the passage gate 48, a lottery (regular symbol lottery) is performed to determine whether or not to put the regular feature 54 into its second state.

[0026] Furthermore, a first large prize slot 50 (third area) is provided in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32. Inside the first large prize slot 50, a first count switch 104 (see Figure 4) is installed to detect game balls that have entered the first large prize slot 50. When the first count switch 104 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the first large prize slot 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the detection signal input from the first count switch 104, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to perform a payout operation for one prize ball. The main control board 200 also counts the number of game balls that have entered the first large prize slot 50 based on the detection signal input from the first count switch 104. Game balls that have entered the first large prize slot 50 are collected inside the game machine.

[0027] The first large prize slot 50 is equipped with a first special mechanism 56 (first movable member) that can operate between a closed state (impossible state) in which game balls cannot enter the first large prize slot 50 and an open state (impossible state) in which game balls can enter. The first special mechanism 56 incorporates a drive device such as a solenoid and is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in the special game state which is started when a big win is achieved in the special symbol lottery. The first special mechanism 56 is also controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in the minor win game state which is started when a minor win is achieved in the special symbol lottery.

[0028] The first large prize opening 50 is provided with a specific area (not shown), a discharge area (not shown), and a distribution means (not shown) that distributes game balls that enter the first large prize opening 50 to either the specific area or the discharge area. A specific area switch 107 (see Figure 4) is provided in the specific area. The specific area switch 107 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 based on the detection of game balls passing through the specific area (passage of the specific area by game balls). The distribution means can be switched between a specific area passage state, in which game balls that enter the first large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area, and a non-specific area passage state, in which game balls that enter the first large prize opening 50 are distributed to the discharge area. That is, when the distribution means is switched to the specific area passage state, game balls that enter the first large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area. As a result, it becomes impossible for game balls that enter the first large prize opening 50 to pass through the discharge area. On the other hand, when the sorting means is displaced to a non-specific area passage state, game balls that enter the first large prize opening 50 are sorted to the discharge area. As a result, it becomes impossible for game balls that enter the first large prize opening 50 to pass through the specific area. The sorting means is displaced by the specific area solenoid. Game balls that enter the first large prize opening 50 are first detected by the first count switch 104, and then sorted by the sorting means to either the specific area or the discharge area, and after passing through that area, are discharged to the discharge path. At this time, game balls sorted to the specific area are detected by the specific area switch 107.

[0029] Furthermore, a second large prize slot 52 (fourth area) is provided in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32. A second count switch 109 (see Figure 4) is also installed inside the second large prize slot 52 to detect game balls that have entered the second large prize slot 52. When the second count switch 109 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the second large prize slot 52), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then causes the payout device 130 to perform a payout operation of prize balls (15 balls) based on the input of the detection signal from the second count switch 109. The main control board 200 also counts the number of game balls that have entered the second large prize slot 52 based on the input of the detection signal from the second count switch 109. Game balls that enter the second large prize slot 55 are collected inside the game machine.

[0030] The second large prize slot 52 is equipped with a second special mechanism 58 (second movable member) that can operate between a closed state (inaccessible state) in which game balls cannot enter the second large prize slot 52 and an open state (inaccessible state) in which game balls can enter. The second special mechanism 58 incorporates a drive device such as a solenoid and is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in the special game state that starts when a win is achieved in the special symbol lottery.

[0031] Furthermore, at the bottom of the game area 4, there is an outlet 62 that collects game balls that fall out of the game area 4 without entering any of the winning openings 46, 47, 49, 50, or 52 into the game machine. Inside the game machine, there is an outlet passage (not shown) through which the game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass. In this game machine, all game balls launched into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) pass through the outlet passage. That is, game balls launched into the game area 4 are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the outlet passage by entering any of the winning openings 46, 47, 49, 50, or 52 or by passing through the outlet 62. Specifically, game balls that enter each of the prize-winning slots 46, 47, 49, 50, and 52 are detected by switches 100, 101, 103, 104, and 109 located within the prize-winning slots, and then guided to the discharge path. Game balls recovered from the out-out slot 62 are also guided to the discharge path. An out-switch 106 (see Figure 4) is located in the discharge path. When the out-switch 106 detects game balls passing through the discharge path (discharge of game balls from the game area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then counts the number of game balls discharged from the game area 4 based on the detection signal input from the out-switch 106.

[0032] The game ball launching device is configured such that the launching force of the game ball changes by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in Figure 1. When the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game ball is launched so that it falls into the game area 4a (first game area 4a, left-handed area) on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball is launched so that it falls into the game area 4b (second game area 4b, right-handed area) on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32.

[0033] Therefore, the player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 according to the game situation and launches the game ball so that it falls through the left game area 4a, or passes through the opening 40, passage 42, and stage 44 and enters the first starting opening 46 (left-handed shot), or launches the game ball so that it falls through the right game area 4b, passes through the passage gate 48, or enters the second starting opening 49, or enters the first major prize opening 50 (second major prize opening 52) (right-handed shot). Left-handed shot may be called the first game method, and right-handed shot may be called the second game method.

[0034] In this embodiment of the gaming machine, when a game ball falls through the left-side gaming area 4a, the game ball does not pass through the passage gate 48, and therefore does not enter (win) the second starting opening 49 or the first major prize opening 50 (second major prize opening 52). Also, when a game ball falls through the right-side gaming area 4b, the game ball does not enter the first starting opening 46 or the general prize opening 47.

[0035] As shown in Figure 2, a status indicator unit 70 is provided in the lower right part of the game board 6, outside the game area 4, which indicates the various states of the game machine by turning on and off lamps or the like.

[0036] Figure 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. As shown in Figure 3, the status display unit 70 is equipped with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal hold display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special hold display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 81, a second special hold display unit 82, and a game status display unit 84.

[0037] The regular symbol display unit 72 is composed of two lamps. When a regular symbol lottery is held, the two lamps flash to display a changing regular symbol, and the two lamps light up or turn off to display a stopped regular symbol, thereby displaying the result of the regular symbol lottery.

[0038] The normal hold display unit 74 consists of two lamps and displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of normal hold numbers that are held, when a normal symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state when a game ball passes through the passage gate 48, or when a normal symbol lottery cannot be performed even if a random value for normal symbol lottery is acquired. The normal hold number is displayed by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps.

[0039] The first special symbol display unit 76 is composed of a 7-segment display. When a game ball enters the first start opening 46 and a lottery for the first special symbol is held, the 7-segment display flashes to display the first special symbol in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display lights up in one of several different modes to display the first special symbol in a stationary state, thereby displaying the result of the lottery for the first special symbol.

[0040] The first special reserve display unit 78 consists of two lamps and displays the number of first special reserves corresponding to the number of first special random values ​​that are being held in reserve when, for example, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state when a game ball enters the first start opening 46, and even if a random value for special symbol lottery (lottery information) is acquired, a special symbol lottery cannot be performed. The first special reserve display unit 78 displays 0 to 4 first special reserves by combining the lighting, extinguishing, or flashing of the two lamps.

[0041] The second special symbol display unit 81 is composed of a 7-segment display. When a game ball enters the second start opening 49 and a second special symbol lottery is held, the 7-segment display flashes to display the second special symbol in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display lights up in one of several different modes to display the second special symbol in a stationary state, thereby displaying the result of the second special symbol lottery.

[0042] The second special reserve display unit 82 is composed of two lamps and displays the number of second special reserves corresponding to the number of second special reserves that are being held in reserve when a game ball enters the second start opening 49 and the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state, or when a random value for special symbol lottery cannot be obtained but a special symbol lottery cannot be performed. The second special reserve display unit 82 displays the number of second special reserves corresponding to the number of second special random values ​​that are being held in reserve. The number of second special reserves can be displayed from 0 to 1 by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps. In this embodiment, the upper limit of the second special reserve is 1.

[0043] The game state display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and the type of game state currently set is displayed by the combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the six lamps. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, multiple game states can be set, including the normal state, the time-saving state (first time-saving state and second time-saving state), and the special game state. The time-saving state is a game state in which the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is shortened compared to the normal state, and the trigger for executing the special symbol lottery occurs more frequently.

[0044] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board that includes a main control board 200 (game control means) and a sub-control board 202. The functions of each board, such as the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202, are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, and software consisting of a given program pre-stored in the ROM, etc.

[0045] The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the gate switch 102, the first start gate switch 100, the second start gate switch 103, the general prize gate switch 101, the first count switch 104, the second count switch 109, the out switch 106, and the specific area switch 107, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the regular prize 54, the first special prize 56, the second special prize 58, and the payout device 130 based on the calculation results.

[0046] Furthermore, the sub-control board 202 receives signals from the main control board 200 and input signals from the performance button switch 150, performs various calculations to execute performances in accordance with the progress of the game, and controls the operation of performance devices such as the front frame lamp 12, speaker 14, liquid crystal display 32, and lighting device 38 based on the calculation results.

[0047] The main control board 200 is composed of a random number generation means 210, a normal symbol lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal prize control means 224, a special symbol lottery means 230, a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250, a special game execution means 260, a small win game execution means 262, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290, among others.

[0048] The random number generation means 210 is a means for generating random numbers for the lottery, and is implemented by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers or a program that generates software random numbers. Software random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to cycle within a predetermined count range). In this embodiment, "random numbers" include not only values ​​that are generated randomly in a mathematical sense, but also values ​​that, even if their generation is regular, can function as effectively random numbers because the timing of their acquisition is irregular.

[0049] (Regular pattern drawing) The normal symbol lottery means 220, based on the input of a detection signal from the gate switch 102 which detects each game ball passing through the passage gate 48, obtains a random value for normal symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 and stores it in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290. The normal symbol lottery is then performed to determine whether a normal win occurs based on the random value for normal symbol lottery read from the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0050] In detail, the ordinary random number storage means 2912 is provided with four ordinary hold storage areas, ordinary hold storage area 1 to ordinary hold storage area 4, as storage areas for storing the acquired ordinary symbol lottery random values, and one ordinary hold storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the ordinary symbol lottery random values ​​read from ordinary hold storage area 1 and used for the ordinary symbol lottery until the display of the changing and stopping of the ordinary symbols is finished. Then, when the normal symbol lottery means 220 obtains a random value for normal symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210, if the random value for normal symbol lottery is not stored in any of the normal hold memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the obtained random value for normal symbol lottery in normal hold memory area 1. Then, when the random value for normal symbol lottery is stored in normal hold memory area 1, if the normal symbol is not in a fluctuating display or stopped display, that is, if the random value for normal symbol lottery is not stored in the normal hold memory area and control to open the normal mechanism 54 is not being executed, it immediately reads the random value for normal symbol lottery from normal hold memory area 1 and performs a normal symbol lottery, and stores the random value for normal symbol lottery obtained from the normal symbol lottery in the normal hold memory area. On the other hand, if the regular symbols are in a variable display state or stopped display state, that is, if a random value for the regular symbol lottery is stored in the regular symbol hold memory area, or if control is being executed to open the regular mechanism 54, the random value for the regular symbol lottery is held in the regular symbol hold memory area 1.

[0051] Then, if a random value for normal symbol lottery is already held in the normal hold memory area 1, and a detection signal is input from the gate switch 102 to acquire a random value for normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol lottery means 220, on the condition that the number of random values ​​for normal symbol lottery held in normal hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, on the condition that the number of normal hold values ​​is less than 4, stores the random value for normal symbol lottery in the normal hold memory area with the smallest ordinal number among normal hold memory areas 1 to 4 that does not currently hold a random value for normal symbol lottery.

[0052] Then, when the display of the variation and stop of the normal symbols is finished, the normal symbol lottery means 220 erases the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal reserve memory area. If there are random values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in normal reserve memory area 1, and provided that control to open the normal mechanism 54 is not currently being executed, it reads the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery from normal reserve memory area 1 to perform a normal symbol lottery, and stores the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery that were used in the normal symbol lottery in the normal reserve memory area. If there are any remaining random values ​​for normal symbol lottery in normal reserve memory area 2 or later, the remaining random values ​​for normal symbol lottery are moved from the original normal reserve memory area to a normal reserve memory area with an ordinal number one smaller. For example, if there are any remaining random values ​​for normal symbol lottery in normal reserve memory area 2 to normal reserve memory area 3, they are moved to normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 2.

[0053] Thus, in the ordinary random number storage means 2912, random numbers for ordinary symbol lottery in which an ordinary symbol lottery has been conducted are stored in the ordinary reserve storage area up to a maximum of 1, and random numbers for ordinary symbol lottery in which an ordinary symbol lottery has not been conducted are stored in ordinary reserve storage areas 1 to 4 up to a maximum of 4.

[0054] The details of the regular symbol lottery will be explained below. The regular symbol lottery means 220 performs a regular win determination process, a regular symbol determination process, and so on as part of the regular symbol lottery.

[0055] The normal win determination process is the process of determining whether or not a normal win has occurred. In the normal win determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 performs a random number determination process by referring to the normal win lottery table stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290.

[0056] Figure 5 shows the regular win lottery table. In this embodiment, the regular win lottery table associates a regular win with each of the 100 random numbers for the regular symbol lottery, ranging from 0 to 99, and the probability of winning a regular win in the regular symbol lottery is 1 / 1 (100 / 100). In other words, the correspondence between regular wins and random numbers in the regular win lottery table is set up so that a regular win is won with a probability of 1 / 1. The regular symbol lottery means 220 refers to the regular win lottery table and determines whether a regular win has been won by determining whether a random number for the regular symbol lottery read from the regular hold storage area 1 of the regular random number storage means 2912 is associated with a regular win.

[0057] In this embodiment, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects the normal win lottery table regardless of the game state. In other words, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a normal win in the normal symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state.

[0058] The regular symbol determination process is performed when a regular win is achieved in the regular win determination process, and it is the process of determining which of several regular win symbols will be the regular win symbol (type of regular win). In this embodiment, the types are set as "Regular Symbol 1", "Regular Symbol 2", and "Regular Symbol 3". In the regular symbol determination process, the probability of "Regular Symbol 1" being determined (winning probability) is 64880 / 65536, the probability of "Regular Symbol 2" being determined (winning probability) is 358 / 65536, and the probability of "Regular Symbol 3" being determined (winning probability) is 298 / 65536.

[0059] In this embodiment, when a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery, the regular feature 54 is opened (opened and closed) according to the opening pattern (opening mode / opening and closing mode) corresponding to the type of regular win determined. In this embodiment, the types of opening patterns for the regular feature 54 are set as a short opening pattern (first opening pattern, first mode) and a long opening pattern (second opening pattern, second mode). The short opening pattern (first mode) is an opening pattern that makes it difficult for game balls to enter the second starting opening 49. In the short opening pattern, the time during which the normal mechanism 54 is in the open state is set to be shorter compared to the long opening pattern. In the short opening pattern, for example, the number of times the normal mechanism 54 opens is set to 1, and the opening time of the normal mechanism 54 is set to approximately 0.05 [s] (first period). The long opening pattern (second form) is an opening pattern that facilitates the entry of game balls into the second starting opening 49. Compared to the short opening pattern, the long opening pattern is set to keep the normal mechanism 54 in the open state for a longer period of time. In the long opening pattern, for example, the number of times the normal mechanism 54 opens is set to 1 (or 4), and the opening time of the normal mechanism 54 is set to approximately 6 [s] (second period) (or the sum of the opening times of the normal mechanism 54 for each time is set to approximately 5.5 [s]). Therefore, if the long opening pattern is selected as the opening pattern for the normal mechanism 54, it is almost certain that game balls will enter the second starting opening 49 if the game is played by shooting to the right.

[0060] In the normal symbol determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects which of the multiple normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 to refer to for random number determination processing, according to the game state at the time the normal symbol lottery is performed. When the game state is normal, the normal symbol lottery table 1 shown in Figure 6(a) is selected. In this case, regardless of whether "Normal Symbol 1" to "Normal Symbol 3" is selected during the normal symbol determination process, the short opening pattern is set. As a result, when a normal win is achieved in the normal symbol lottery in the normal state, the short opening pattern is set with a probability of 1 / 1.

[0061] When the game state is the first time-saving state, the regular symbol lottery table 2 shown in Figure 6(b) is selected. In this case, regardless of whether "Regular Symbol 1" to "Regular Symbol 3" is determined in the regular symbol determination process, the long opening pattern is set. As a result, if a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery during the first time-saving state, the long opening pattern is set with a 1 / 1 probability.

[0062] When the game state is the second time-saving state, the regular symbol lottery table 3 shown in Figure 6(c) is selected. In this case, if "Regular Symbol 1" is determined in the regular symbol determination process, the short opening pattern is selected; if "Regular Symbol 2" is determined, the long opening pattern is selected; and if "Regular Symbol 3" is determined, the long opening pattern is selected. As a result, if a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery during the second time-saving state, the long opening pattern is set with a probability of 1 / 99.902.

[0063] In the first and second time-saving states, the probability of selecting the long opening pattern when a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery is different. Furthermore, the probability is higher in the first time-saving state than in the second time-saving state, making it a more advantageous state for the player. In addition, in the first and second time-saving states, the regular mechanism 54 is operated in such a way that it is easier for the game ball to enter the second start opening 49 than in the normal state, making it a more advantageous state for the player than in the normal state.

[0064] The normal symbol lottery means 220 determines the variation pattern (variation time) of the normal symbols according to the game state at the time the normal symbol lottery is performed (normal variation pattern determination process). In this embodiment, when the game state is a time-saving state (first time-saving state or second time-saving state), the variation time of the normal symbols is set to be shorter than when the game state is a normal state. Note that the variation times of the normal symbols may differ between the first time-saving state and the second time-saving state, in which case the variation time of the normal symbols in the first time-saving state may be set to be the shortest.

[0065] The normal display control means 222 performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery.

[0066] In the normal symbol display control process, the normal display control means 222 makes the normal symbols change by flashing the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 until the change time corresponding to the change pattern of the normal symbols determined in the normal change pattern determination process has elapsed. In the normal win determination process, the normal symbol display unit 72 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 to stop the normal symbols, depending on whether or not a normal win has been achieved.

[0067] In the normal hold display control process, the normal display control means 222 displays 0 to 4 normal hold numbers by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74, according to the number of random values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0068] The ordinary feature control means 224 (movable member control means) is a means for controlling the ordinary feature drive device based on the lottery result of the ordinary symbol lottery, and performs ordinary feature control processing. In the ordinary feature control processing, when the ordinary symbols stop and are displayed in a manner indicating a winning ordinary prize, the drive control of the ordinary feature drive device is performed so that the ordinary feature 54 opens (opens and closes) in a determined opening pattern (opening mode / opening and closing mode).

[0069] In addition, in the normal symbol lottery, the system may be configured such that a decision to open the normal mechanism 54 is made based on the game state or other conditions, and the lottery process is not executed. In such a configuration, for example, the system may be configured to uniformly decide to open the normal mechanism 54 only when the gate switch 102 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 48 during the time-saving state.

[0070] (Special design lottery) The special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery information acquisition means, lottery means) acquires a random value for special symbol lottery (lottery information) from the random number generation means 210 based on a detection signal input from the first start-up switch 100, which detects each game ball entering the first start-up 46, and stores it in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290 as the first special random value (first lottery information). The special symbol lottery means 230 also acquires a random value for special symbol lottery (lottery information) from the random number generation means 210 based on a detection signal input from the second start-up switch 103, which detects each game ball entering the second start-up 49, and stores it in the special random number storage means 2914 as the second special random value (second lottery information). Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 uses the first special random number or the second special random number read from the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won.

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

[0072] When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the first start switch 100 and acquires a random value for special symbol lottery, if the first special random value is not stored in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the acquired random value for special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area 1 as the first special random value. Then, when the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, if the first special symbol is not being displayed in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the first special random value is not stored in the first special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a minor win game is not being executed, it immediately reads the first special random value from the first special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area. On the other hand, if the first special symbol is in a variable display state or stopped display state, that is, if the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area, or if the game state is a special game state, or if a minor win game is being played, the first special random value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1.

[0073] Then, if a detection signal is input from the first start switch 100 while a first special random value is being held in the first special hold memory area 1, and a random value for special symbol lottery is obtained, the special symbol lottery means 230 stores the first special random value in the first special hold memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the first special hold memory areas 1 to 4, which is a hold memory area where no first special random value is being held and which has the smallest ordinal number, provided that the number of first special random values ​​being held in the first special hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, provided that the number of first special holds is less than 4.

[0074] The special random number storage means 2914 is provided with four second special reserve storage areas, 2nd special reserve storage area 1 to 2nd special reserve storage area 4, as storage areas for storing the acquired second special random number value. One second special reserve storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the second special random number value read from 2nd special reserve storage area 1 and used for the special symbol lottery until the variation display and stop display of the second special symbol are completed. In this embodiment, since the upper limit of the second special reserve number is 1, the four second special reserve storage areas 1 to 2nd special reserve storage area 4 are not provided as storage areas for storing the second special random number value, and only 2nd special reserve storage area 1 may be provided.

[0075] When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the second start switch 103 and acquires a random value for special symbol lottery, if the second special random value is not stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the acquired random value for special symbol lottery in the second special reserve memory area 1 as the second special random value. Then, when the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1, if the second special symbol is not being displayed in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the second special random value is not stored in the second special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a minor win game is not being executed, it immediately reads the second special random value from the second special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and stores the second special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the second special reserve memory area. On the other hand, if the second special symbol is in a fluctuating or stopped state, that is, if the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area, or if the game state is a special game state, or if a minor win game is being played, the second special random value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1.

[0076] Furthermore, if a detection signal is input from the second start switch 103 while a second special random value is being held in the second special holding memory area 1, and a random value for special symbol lottery is obtained, the special symbol lottery means 230 may be configured to store the second special random value in the second special holding memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the second special holding memory areas 1 to 4, provided that the number of second special random values ​​being held in the second special holding memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, i.e., the number of second special holdings is less than 4.

[0077] When the variation and stop display of the first special symbol is finished, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the first special random value stored in the first special reserve memory area. If the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, and provided that the game state is not a special game state and a minor win game is not in progress, the first special random value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and the first special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery is stored in the first special reserve memory area. When the special symbol lottery means 230 finishes displaying the variation and stopping of the second special symbol, it erases the second special random value stored in the second special reserve memory area. If the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1, and provided that the game state is not a special game state and a minor win game is not in progress, it reads the second special random value from the second special reserve memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery and stores the second special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the second special reserve memory area. In this embodiment, since the first special random value and the second special random value are processed in parallel, it is possible that the display of the second special symbol may start while the first special symbol is being displayed, or the display of the first special symbol may start while the second special symbol is being displayed.

[0078] If the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, the first special random value may be read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery may be performed, provided that the second special random value is not stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4. If the second special random value is stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, the second special random value may be read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery may be performed, even if the first special random value is stored in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4. In other words, the second special random value may be processed with priority over the first special random value. Furthermore, regardless of whether it is the first special random number or the second special random number, the first special random number or the second special random number may be read out in the order in which they were stored in the special random number storage means 2914 to perform the special symbol lottery. In other words, the first special random number or the second special random number may be processed in the order in which the game balls entered the first start opening 46 or the second start opening 49.

[0079] When the first special random value is read from the first special reserved memory area 1, if the first special random value remains in the first special reserved memory area 2 or later, or when the second special random value is read from the second special reserved memory area 1, if the second special random value remains in the second special reserved memory area 2 or later, the remaining first or second special random value is moved from its original special reserved memory area to a special reserved memory area with an ordinal number one less. For example, when the first special random value is read from the first special reserved memory area 1, if there are still first special random values ​​remaining in each of the first special reserved memory areas 2 to 4, the first special random values ​​stored in each of the first special reserved memory areas 2 to 4 are moved to each of the first special reserved memory areas 1 to 3. Similarly, when the second special random value is read from the second special reserved memory area 1, if there are still second special random values ​​remaining in each of the second special reserved memory areas 2 to 4, the second special random values ​​stored in each of the second special reserved memory areas 2 to 4 are moved to each of the second special reserved memory areas 1 to 3.

[0080] In the special random number storage means 2914, up to four first special random numbers for which no special symbol draw has been performed are stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 to the first special reserve storage area 4. In addition, up to one second special random number for which no special symbol draw has been performed is stored in the second special reserve storage area 1.

[0081] Next, the details of the special symbol lottery will be explained. Based on the detection signal input from the first start switch 100 or the second start switch 103, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires multiple types of random numbers as random numbers for special symbol lottery, such as a jackpot determination random number and a symbol determination random number, and stores these multiple types of random numbers in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number or the second special random number. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs jackpot determination processing, symbol determination processing, etc., as part of the special symbol lottery.

[0082] The jackpot determination process involves reading one jackpot determination random number from the first special random number or second special random number stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 or second special reserve storage area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914, and determining whether a jackpot has been won or not. Here, one jackpot determination random number is obtained from 65,536 jackpot determination random numbers ranging from 0 to 65,535 based on a detection signal input from the first start switch 100 or the second start switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number or second special random number.

[0083] In the jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple types of jackpot lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to for random number determination processing, depending on whether the read jackpot determination random number was stored as the first special random number or the second special random number.

[0084] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores the jackpot lottery table A shown in Figure 7(a) and the jackpot lottery table B shown in Figure 7(b). In each jackpot lottery table, a jackpot is associated with each of the 65,536 random jackpot determination values ​​ranging from 0 to 65,535.

[0085] The jackpot lottery table A is selected when performing a jackpot determination process for the first special random value, and the correspondence between each judgment result and the jackpot determination random value is set so that a "jackpot" is won with a probability of 1 / 219.919 (298 / 65536) and a "miss" is won with a probability of 218.919 / 219.919 (65238 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the jackpot lottery table A and determines whether a "jackpot" or a "miss" has been won by determining whether the jackpot determination random value read from the first reserve memory area 1 is associated with a "jackpot" or a "miss". In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "jackpot" or a "loss" in the first special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state.

[0086] The jackpot lottery table B is selected when determining a win for the second special random number, and the correspondence between the determination result and the jackpot determination random number is set so that a "minor win" is won with a probability of 1 / 1 (65536 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the jackpot lottery table B and determines whether or not the jackpot determination random number read from the second reserve storage area 1 is associated with a "minor win," thereby determining whether or not a "minor win" has been won. In this embodiment, a "minor win" is always won in the second special symbol lottery. In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "minor prize" in the second special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state.

[0087] The symbol determination process is performed in the jackpot determination process when a jackpot or minor win is achieved. The symbol determination process reads one symbol determination random number from the first special random number or second special random number stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 or second special reserve storage area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914. If a jackpot is achieved, the process determines which of the multiple jackpot symbols will be the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot), and if a minor win is achieved, the process determines which of the multiple minor win symbols will be the minor win symbol (type of minor win). Here, one symbol determination random number is obtained from 200 symbol determination random numbers from 0 to 199 based on detection signals input from the first start switch 100 and the second start switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number or second special random number.

[0088] In the pattern determination process, the special pattern lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple pattern lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 to refer to for random number determination processing, depending on whether the random number value read out was stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0089] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores the pattern lottery table A shown in Figure 8(a) and the pattern lottery table B shown in Figure 8(b). In each pattern lottery table, a predetermined pattern is associated with each of the random numbers used to determine the pattern.

[0090] The symbol lottery table A shown in Figure 8(a) is selected when a jackpot is won and one of the read symbol determination random values ​​is stored as the first special random value. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random value is set so that "Jackpot 1" (10R time reduction 1000) is won with a probability of approximately 3%, and "Jackpot 2" (10R time reduction 130) is won with a probability of approximately 97%. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table A and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols corresponds to the random number value of one symbol that it has read out, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0091] The symbol lottery table B shown in Figure 8(b) is selected when a minor win is achieved and one of the read symbol determination random values ​​is stored as the second special random value. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random value is set so that "minor win 1" is won with a probability of approximately 20%, "minor win 2" with a probability of approximately 35%, and "minor win 3" with a probability of approximately 45%. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table B and determines which of the multiple types of minor winning symbols is associated with the random number value of one of the multiple types of minor winning symbols, thereby determining which of the multiple types of minor winning symbols has been won.

[0092] (Winning symbols) The special game state is initiated when a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (executions) of special gameplay are performed according to the type (category) of the jackpot symbol (Figure 8(a)). In the special symbol lottery, if "Big Win 1" or "Big Win 2" is won, the special game state is started, and the special game state ends after 10 rounds of special gameplay (rounds 1 through 10) have been completed. As will be explained in more detail later, if you win a jackpot in the special symbol lottery, a predetermined number of time-saving rounds corresponding to the jackpot symbol will be set at the end of the special game state, and the first or second time-saving round will begin.

[0093] (Small win symbols) The minor win game state is initiated based on winning a minor win in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery), and ends when the minor win game is performed a predetermined number of times (1 time in this embodiment). During the minor win game, the first special mechanism 56 opens to allow game balls to enter the first large prize opening 50, and the distribution means is displaced from a non-specific area passage state to a specific area passage state. Specifically, during the minor win game, the distribution means is displaced from a non-specific area passage state to a specific area passage state so that it is easy (possible) for game balls that enter the first large prize opening 50 during the execution of the minor win game to pass through the specific area. As a result, if "minor win 1", "minor win 2", or "minor win 3" is won in the second special symbol lottery, it becomes easy (possible) for game balls to pass through the specific area during the minor win game state. Furthermore, if it is detected that a game ball has passed through a specific area during a minor win game (for example, if a game ball that has entered the first major prize slot 50 has passed through a specific area during the execution of a minor win game), a special game state will be started based on the end of the minor win game state.

[0094] In the second special symbol lottery, if "Minor Win 1" is won and the passing of the game ball through a specific area is detected during the minor win game state, the number of rounds of gameplay is set to 9. As a result, 10 rounds will be executed, with the minor win game being the first round of gameplay. The special game state then ends, provided that 10 rounds of special gameplay have been executed. In the second special symbol lottery, if "Minor Win 2" is selected and the passing of a specific area by the game ball is detected during the minor win game state, the number of rounds of gameplay is set to 9. As a result, 10 rounds will be executed, with the minor win game being the first round of gameplay. The special game state then ends, provided that 10 rounds of special gameplay have been executed. In the second special symbol lottery, if "Small Win 3" is selected and the passing of a specific area by the game ball is detected during the small win game state, the number of rounds of gameplay is set to 1. As a result, two rounds will be executed, with the small win game being the first round of gameplay. The special game state then ends, provided that two rounds of special gameplay have been executed. As will be explained in more detail later, when the special game state ends, a predetermined number of time-saving rounds corresponding to the winning symbols are set, and a time-saving state (either the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state) begins. If the passage of a game ball through a specific area is not detected during the winning game state (if the passage of a game ball that entered the first large prize pocket 50 during the execution of the winning game is not detected), the special game state will not begin and the normal state will begin.

[0095] In each round of special games (including minor win games), the special game drive device is controlled to close the first special game 56 (or second special game 58) when the first special game 56 (or second special game 58) is open, either by the opening timer in the main memory 290 counting a predetermined time (e.g., 29 seconds) or when the first count switch 104 (or second count switch 109) detects the entry of one game ball, and the value of the big win counter in the main memory 290, which adds a value equivalent to one game ball (e.g., 1), reaches its upper limit. In this embodiment, the term "special game" may include minor win games. Also, the term "special game" is not limited to a single round of gameplay, but may refer to an entire round of gameplay consisting of multiple rounds (e.g., a 10R special game). In this embodiment, the first special feature 56 is controlled to be in the open state during the first round, and the second special feature 58 is controlled to be in the open state from the second round to the tenth round.

[0096] The special display control means 240 performs a first special symbol display control process, a second special symbol display control process, a first special hold display control process, and a second special hold display control process based on the results of the special symbol lottery.

[0097] The first special symbol display control process is performed when a first special random value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is held. The special display control means 240 displays the first special symbol in a variable state by blinking the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 until the variable time has elapsed, and then displays the first special symbol in a fixed state by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

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

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

[0100] The special display control means 240, in the jackpot determination process (win determination process), lights up the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a manner that corresponds to whether or not a minor win has been achieved, and if a minor win has been achieved in the jackpot determination process, in a manner that corresponds to the minor win symbol determined in the symbol determination process, thereby stopping the display of the second special symbol and displaying the result of the special symbol lottery on the second special symbol display unit 81.

[0101] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 first special hold numbers by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78, according to the number of first special random values ​​stored in the special random number storage means 2914.

[0102] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 second special hold numbers by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82, according to the number of second special random values ​​stored in the special random number storage means 2914. In this embodiment, it is displayed that the second special hold number is 0 or 1.

[0103] As shown in Figure 9, the game state transition control means 250 performs game state transition control processing to transition between game states based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions (transition conditions). In this embodiment, the time-saving state (first time-saving state or second time-saving state) ends when any of the following first to third termination conditions are met.

[0104] (First termination condition) The first termination condition is based on the number of times (spins) the regular symbols are displayed in a variation. In this embodiment, the first termination condition is met when the number of regular symbol variations during the time-saving mode reaches the "first time-saving mode" set at the end of the special game state. The number of regular symbol variations during the time-saving mode is the number of times the regular symbols are displayed in a variation during the time-saving mode. The main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is provided with a first time-saving counter 2932 that counts the number of normal symbol variations. At the end of the special game state, the main control board 200 sets the value of the first time-saving counter 2932 to the number of first time-saving rounds corresponding to the winning symbol (type), and subtracts "1" from the value of the first time-saving counter 2932 each time a normal symbol variation display begins. When the value of the first time-saving counter 2932 reaches "0" as the final variation display of the normal symbol begins, it is determined that the first termination condition has been met, and the time-saving state ends and the normal state begins at the start of the final variation of the normal symbol. When the first termination condition is met, the time-saving state ends and the normal state begins at the start of the variation display of the normal symbol that triggered the meeting of the first termination condition.

[0105] (Second termination condition) The second termination condition is based on the number of times the second special symbol is displayed in a variation. In this embodiment, the second termination condition is met when the number of times the second special symbol is displayed in a variation during the time-saving mode reaches the "second time-saving mode" set at the end of the special game state. The number of times the second special symbol is displayed in a variation during the time-saving mode. The main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is provided with a second time-saving counter 2933 that counts the number of times the special symbol 2 changes. When the special game state ends, the main control board 200 sets the number of second time-saving rounds according to the type of winning symbol as the value of the second time-saving counter 2933, and subtracts "1" from the value of the second time-saving counter 2933 each time the display of the second special symbol changes. When the value of the second time-saving counter 2933 reaches "0", it is determined that the second termination condition has been met, and the time-saving state is terminated and the normal state is started at the start of the display of the second special symbol that triggered the meeting of the second termination condition.

[0106] (Third termination condition) The third termination condition is based on the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state. In this embodiment, the third termination condition is met when the total number of special symbol variations during the time-saving state reaches the "third time-saving state" set at the end of the special game state. The total number of special symbol variations during the time-saving state is the sum of the number of times the first special symbol was displayed in a variation state during the time-saving state and the number of times the second special symbol was displayed in the same time-saving state. The main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is equipped with a third time-saving counter 2934 that counts the total number of special symbol variations. When the special game state ends, the main control board 200 sets the value of the third time-saving counter 2934 to the number of third time-saving rounds according to the type of winning symbol, and subtracts "1" from the value of the third time-saving counter 2934 each time the variation display of a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) begins. When the value of the third time-saving counter 2934 reaches "0", it is determined that the third termination condition has been met, and the time-saving state is terminated and the normal state is started at the start of the variation display of the special symbol that triggered the fulfillment of the third termination condition.

[0107] In this embodiment, the values ​​set in various counters are subtracted at predetermined triggers, and when these values ​​reach "0", it is determined that a predetermined termination condition has been met. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the values ​​of the various counters may be added at predetermined triggers, and when these values ​​reach a predetermined value, it is determined that a predetermined termination condition has been met.

[0108] In this embodiment, when a player wins a jackpot in the special symbol lottery, a special game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the first large prize slot 50 (second large prize slot 52). Also, when a player wins a minor prize in the special symbol lottery, a minor prize game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the first large prize slot 50. In this minor prize game state, when it is detected that a game ball that has entered the first large prize slot 50 has passed through a specific area, a special game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the second large prize slot 52. By getting the game ball into the second large prize slot 52, the player can win many prize balls.

[0109] In this embodiment, the probability of transitioning to a special game state based on the second special symbol lottery is higher than the probability of transitioning to a special game state based on the first special symbol lottery. In other words, the probability of determining a transition to a special game state in the second special symbol lottery is higher than in the first special symbol lottery. Therefore, obtaining an opportunity in the second special symbol lottery is more advantageous for the player than obtaining an opportunity in the first special symbol lottery, as it increases the likelihood of transitioning to a special game state. In order to obtain an opportunity in the second special symbol lottery, it is necessary to win a regular win in the regular symbol lottery and to insert a game ball into the second start opening 49 when the regular mechanism 54 (regular electric mechanism) is in the open state. As described above, in this embodiment, the opening patterns of the standard mechanism 54 include a short opening pattern and a long opening pattern. When the short opening pattern is selected, it becomes difficult for the game ball to enter the second start opening 49, while when the long opening pattern is selected, it becomes easy for the game ball to enter the second start opening 49.

[0110] (Normal state) The normal state is the initial state among several types of game states. In the normal state, when a normal win is achieved in the normal symbol lottery, the normal mechanism 54 is set to a short opening pattern with a probability of 1 / 1. Therefore, it is difficult (impossible) to get the game ball into the second start opening 49. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) to obtain an opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery. As a result, in the normal state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot left to get the game ball into the first start opening 46 in order to obtain an opportunity to win the first special symbol lottery, rather than shooting right. In other words, the normal state is a game state in which left-handed shooting is recommended.

[0111] As shown in Figure 9, if a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state, the game transitions to a special game state. At this time, as shown in Figure 8(a), if a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery based on the first special random value and the jackpot is "jackpot 1", at the end of the special game state, 1000 rounds are set as the first time-saving round, 1 round as the second time-saving round, and 10 rounds as the third time-saving round. Then, based on the end of the special game state, the game transitions to the first time-saving round. Also, as shown in Figure 8(a), if a jackpot is won in the same special symbol lottery and the jackpot is "jackpot 2", at the end of the special game state, 130 rounds are set as the first time-saving round, 1 round as the second time-saving round, and 10 rounds as the third time-saving round. Then, based on the end of the special game state, the game transitions to the second time-saving round.

[0112] (First shortened time state) In the first time-saving state, if a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery, the regular mechanism 54 has a 1 / 1 probability of selecting the long opening pattern. Therefore, compared to the normal state, it is easier to get the game balls into the second start opening 49. In the first time-saving state, if a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery, there is a 1 / 1 probability of obtaining an opportunity to participate in the second special symbol lottery. The probability of winning a regular win in the regular symbol lottery is 1 / 1, and the probability of winning a minor win in the second special symbol lottery is 1 / 1 (a minor win is guaranteed in the second special symbol lottery). Therefore, when transitioning to the first time-saving state, it is almost certain that a transition to the special game state is possible based on one regular symbol lottery. In other words, in the first time-saving state, the probability of winning a regular win in the regular symbol lottery (1 / 1) is effectively the probability of winning the second special symbol lottery and transitioning to the special game state. As a result, in the first time-saving state, shooting to the right is more advantageous to the player than shooting to the left, in order to ensure that the game balls pass through gate 48 in order to have a chance at the regular symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery). In other words, the first time-saving state is a game state in which you should shoot to the right.

[0113] (Second shortened hours) In the second time-saving state, when a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery, the regular mechanism 54 has a probability of 1 / 99.902 in which the long opening pattern is selected. Therefore, compared to the normal state, it is easier to get the game balls into the second start opening 49. In the second time-saving state, when a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery, there is a probability of 1 / 99.902 in which the opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery is obtained. In the second time-saving state, the probability of winning a regular win in the regular symbol lottery (1 / 99.902) is effectively the probability of winning the second special symbol lottery and transitioning to the special game state. As a result, in the second time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot to the right than to shoot to get the game balls through the passage gate 48 in order to get an opportunity to win the regular symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery). In other words, the second time-saving state is a game state in which shooting to the right is recommended.

[0114] As shown in Figure 9, if you win a prize (minor win) in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery) during the first time-saving state, you will transition to the special game state. Similarly, if you win a prize (minor win) in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery) during the second time-saving state, you will transition to the special game state.

[0115] As shown in Figure 8(b), if a minor win is achieved in the special symbol lottery based on the second special random value, and the "minor win 1" is achieved, and the passage of a specific area by the game ball is detected during the minor win game state, then at the end of the special game state, 1000 rounds are set as the first time-saving round, 1 round as the second time-saving round, and 10 rounds as the third time-saving round. Then, based on the end of the special game state, the game transitions to the first time-saving round. As described above, if the game transitions to the first time-saving round, it is possible to transition back to the special game state based on one normal symbol lottery. Therefore, "minor win 1" can be called a 1G consecutive symbol.

[0116] As shown in Figure 8(b), if a minor win is achieved in the special symbol lottery, and "minor win 2" is achieved, and if the passage of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the minor win game state, then at the end of the special game state, 130 rounds are set as the first time-saving round, 1 round as the second time-saving round, and 10 rounds as the third time-saving round. Then, based on the end of the special game state, the game transitions to the second time-saving round.

[0117] As shown in Figure 8(b), if a minor win is achieved in the special symbol lottery, and "minor win 3" is achieved, and the passage of a specific area by the game ball is detected during the minor win game state, then at the end of the special game state, 130 rounds are set as the first time-saving round, 1 round as the second time-saving round, and 10 rounds as the third time-saving round. Then, based on the end of the special game state, the game transitions to the second time-saving round.

[0118] In the first time-saving state, if any of the above-mentioned first to third termination conditions are met, the first time-saving state will end based on that condition, and the normal state will begin. In the second time-saving state, if any of the above-mentioned termination conditions 1 to 3 are met, the second time-saving state will end based on that condition, and the normal state will begin.

[0119] Let's return to Figure 4 for explanation. The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the result of the special symbol lottery, and performs the execution process of the special game. The minor prize game execution means 262 is a means for executing a minor prize game based on the fact that a minor prize has been won in the special symbol lottery, and performs the execution process of the minor prize game. The special game execution means 260 may be configured to include the minor prize game execution means.

[0120] The payout control means 270 controls the payout device 130 to dispense a number of game balls corresponding to a predetermined number of prize balls for each detection signal, based on the detection signals received from the first start switch 100, the second start switch 103, the general prize entry switch 101, the first count switch 104, and the second count switch 109.

[0121] The dispensing device 130 dispenses the number of game balls instructed by the dispensing control means 270. The dispensing device 130 is equipped with a dispensing motor in the game ball tank where the game balls are stored, and the dispensing control means 270 dispenses the instructed number of game balls from the game ball tank by controlling the rotation angle of the dispensing motor. The dispensing device 130 is also equipped with a dispensing sensor that operates each time a game ball is dispensed, and the dispensing control means 270 can manage the number of game balls actually dispensed from the dispensing device 130 based on the dispensing signal from the dispensing sensor.

[0122] The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated according to the various calculation results of the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202. In this embodiment of the gaming machine, only unidirectional communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible between the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202, and the communication connection is such that the sub-control board 202 cannot transmit information to the main control board 200.

[0123] Next, the sub-control board 202 will be described. The sub-control board 202 is composed of a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 302.

[0124] The performance control means 300 controls the performance device based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150, and performance data stored in the performance data storage means 303 of the sub-memory 302. By controlling the performance device, it causes the performance device to execute performances that enhance or assist the game, such as turning on or flashing the front frame lamp 12 and lighting device 38, displaying performance images on the liquid crystal display 32, controlling the sound device to output performance sounds from the speaker 14, and driving the performance object drive device to operate the performance objects.

[0125] The performance data storage means 303 stores a large number of performance image data for displaying images on the liquid crystal display 32. Based on this performance image data, the performance control means 300 draws an image to the frame buffer of the sub-memory 302 every frame (1 / 30 second), and displays the drawn image on the liquid crystal display 32, thereby playing and displaying a video on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0126] The performance control means 300 can perform an action to display a performance symbol (demo symbol) on the liquid crystal display 32 in accordance with (corresponding to) the fluctuation and stop display of the first special symbol in the first special symbol display unit 76, or in accordance with (corresponding to) the fluctuation and stop display of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display unit 72, and can notify the result of the first special symbol lottery or the normal symbol lottery. In the normal state, the performance control means 300 can display a performance symbol on the liquid crystal display 32 that corresponds to the fluctuation and stop display of the first special symbol, and in the time-saving state (first time-saving state or second time-saving state), it can display a performance symbol on the liquid crystal display 32 that corresponds to the fluctuation and stop display of the normal symbol.

[0127] The display of the performance symbols in the normal state will be explained. Figure 10(a) shows the state before the first special symbol begins to change. The left performance symbol 350, the middle performance symbol 352, and the right performance symbol 354 are displayed as performance symbols in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32. The left performance symbol 350 is displayed on the left side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, the middle performance symbol 352 is displayed on the center side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, and the right performance symbol 354 is displayed on the right side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32. The left performance symbol 350, the middle performance symbol 352, and the right performance symbol 354 each constitute a sequence of nine performance symbols representing the numbers "1" to "9". Note that each performance symbol representing the numbers "1" to "9" may include decorative elements such as characters along with the numbers.

[0128] As shown in Figure 10(b), the display of the special symbols changes (display effect) when the first special symbol starts to change. The downward arrow in the figure indicates that the special symbols are changing rapidly in the vertical direction (scrolling).

[0129] As shown in Figure 10(c), the performance symbols are displayed in a stopped state based on the stop display of the first special symbol. The performance symbols are displayed in a manner corresponding to the result of the first special symbol lottery. For example, if a jackpot is won in the first special symbol lottery, the performance symbols are displayed in a manner corresponding to the jackpot symbol determined in the symbol determination process. Although not shown in the illustration, even in the time-saving state (first time-saving state or second time-saving state), the performance symbols are displayed in a changed or stopped state in accordance with the changing and stopped displays of the normal symbols, just as in the normal state (as shown in Figures 10(a), 10(b), and 10(c)).

[0130] The performance control means 300 performs a performance that displays an image indicating the first special reserved number or the normal reserved number on the liquid crystal display 32, based on the first special reserved number or the normal reserved number on the main control board 200. In the normal state, as shown in Figures 10(a) to 10(c), the first reserved image 420 (first reserved symbol) corresponding to the first special reserved number is displayed at the bottom of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32. In the time-saving state (first time-saving state or second time-saving state), as shown in Figure 10(d), the second reserved image 422 (second reserved symbol) corresponding to the normal reserved number is displayed at the bottom of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32.

[0131] In this embodiment, the normal state is a game state in which shooting to the left is more advantageous than shooting to the right, and the time-saving state (first time-saving state and second time-saving state: right-shooting time-saving state, specific state) is a game state in which shooting to the right is more advantageous than shooting to the left. In the time-saving state (first time-saving state and second time-saving state), it is easier to get the game balls into the second start port 49 than in the normal state, and the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of game balls into the second start port 49 has a higher probability of determining a transition to a special game state than the first special symbol lottery. In other words, the first time-saving state and the second time-saving state have a higher probability of determining a transition to a special game state than in the normal state. The first time-saving state and the second time-saving state may be referred to as the high-base state, and the normal state may be referred to as the low-base state.

[0132] (Complete function) The main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is equipped with a MY counter (not shown). After power-on, the frame control board 201 updates the stored value of the MY counter based on the maximum difference in the number of balls in the game value (MY: the increase in game value from the point when the game value was lowest after power-on). The stored value of the MY counter is updated based on the value related to the acquisition of game value (prize balls) and the value related to the use of game value. The stored value of the MY counter is reset to "0" upon the occurrence of a power outage (power failure) (recovery from power failure).

[0133] The main control board 200 manages whether or not to activate the complete function based on the stored value of the MY counter. The main control board 200 activates the complete function when the stored value of the MY counter reaches a predetermined value of "95000" or more (when the predetermined value is reached). When the main control board 200 decides to activate the complete function (determines that the conditions for activating the complete function have been met), it transitions the gaming machine to a state where the game cannot proceed (game restriction state, game stop state). When the complete function is activated, the progress of the game, such as the special symbol lottery, is restricted.

[0134] Based on receiving information from the main control board 200 indicating the operation of the complete function, the performance control means 300 executes a performance (complete function activation performance) to notify that the complete function is in operation. In this performance, for example, the words "Complete function in operation" (white text) and the words "You have reached the maximum payout limit for today. Gameplay is over for today" (white text) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 against a black background, and the voice "You have reached the maximum payout limit for today. Gameplay is over for today" is output from the speaker 14. When the complete function is activated, the performance currently in progress is interrupted (ended), and the complete function activation performance is executed.

[0135] (Preliminary assessment) The special symbol lottery means 230 (pre-determination means) performs a pre-determination process, such as a jackpot determination process or a symbol determination process, when storing the first special random value or the second special random value in the special random number storage means 2914 (before the special symbol lottery is performed). When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the first start switch 100 or the second start switch 103 and obtains a random value for special symbol lottery (lottery information) from the random number generation means 210, it performs a pre-determination process, such as a jackpot determination process or a symbol determination process, for the first special random value or the second special random value, depending on the game state and the number of reserved balls at that time, before storing it as the first special random value or the second special random value. Furthermore, the pre-determination process may be configured to execute dedicated pre-determination processes (pre-jackpot determination process, pre-symbol determination process) rather than the same processes (for example, lottery processes based on the same table) that are executed when the fluctuations based on the random values ​​for special symbol lottery that are actually stored as pending are performed. In addition, the pre-determination process may be configured to perform a pre-determination regarding the fluctuation time of the special symbols.

[0136] The special symbol lottery means 230 transmits the pre-determination results, including the results of the jackpot determination process and the symbol determination process, which are pre-determination processes, to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) as pre-determination result information (specific information), and stores the pre-determination results in association with the first special random value or the second special random value that was the subject of the pre-determination process.

[0137] (Winning with 2 game balls) If a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state, the game transitions to a special game state (first win). After the special game state ends, the game basically (approximately 97%) transitions to a second time-saving state (probability of winning a long opening: 1 / 99.902). If a regular symbol lottery is won in the second time-saving state and the long opening pattern of the regular mechanism 54 is set, the performance control means 300 executes a performance (aim performance) via the LCD display 32 or the like, instructing the player to aim the game ball at the second start opening 49.

[0138] In the time-saving state after the special game state (initial win) ends, if the regular symbol lottery is won and the long opening pattern is set, the regular mechanism 54 opens. In this embodiment, when the regular mechanism 54 opens and the first game ball enters the second start opening 49, and the display of the second special symbol variation based on this entry is being executed, the second game ball enters the second start opening 49, and the second special random value (lottery information) can be held. In other words, multiple (2) game balls can enter (win) the second start opening 49 during a single long opening of the regular mechanism 54. In this embodiment, it can also be said that the game can transition to the special game state based on the fact that two game balls have entered (win) the second start opening 49. In the following, during a single long opening of the regular prize mechanism 54, the first game ball to enter will be considered the first game ball, and the second game ball to enter later (last) will be considered the second game ball.

[0139] Figure 11 shows the combination of the pre-determination result of the special symbol lottery for the first game ball (second special symbol lottery) and the pre-determination result of the special symbol lottery for the second game ball (second special symbol lottery). In this embodiment, since a win (minor win) is guaranteed in the second special symbol lottery, the "pre-determination result of the special symbol lottery for the first game ball" may be called the first win, and the "pre-determination result of the special symbol lottery for the second game ball" may be called the second win. Furthermore, in the following, minor win 1 shown in Figure 8(b) will be referred to as the "1G consecutive 10R win" (specific result), minor win 2 as the "10R win", and minor win 3 as the "2R win".

[0140] (2R+2R) One type of winning combination is "2R + 2R". There is only one way to get "2R + 2R", which is when the first winning combination is a 2R win and the second winning combination is also a 2R win.

[0141] (10R + 2R) There is a type of two winning combination called "10R + 2R". There are two ways in which "10R + 2R" can occur: the first is when the first winning combination is a 10R win in a 1G sequence, and the second is when the first winning combination is a 2R win; and the second is when the first winning combination is a 10R win, and the second is when the second is when the second is when the first winning combination is a 2R win.

[0142] (2R + 10R) There is a type of two winning combination called "2R + 10R". There are two ways to get "2R + 10R": the first is when the first win is a 2R win and the second is a 1G consecutive 10R win, and the second is when the first win is a 2R win and the second is a 10R win.

[0143] (10R + 10R) One type of winning combination is "10R + 10R". There are four ways to get "10R + 10R": the first is when the first win is a 10R win and the second win is also a 10R win; the second is when the first win is a 1G consecutive 10R win and the second win is also a 10R win; the third is when the first win is a 10R win and the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win; and the fourth is when the first win is a 1G consecutive 10R win and the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win.

[0144] Using Figure 12, we will explain the transition of the game state when the first win is a 10R win with 1G consecutive wins, and the second win is also a 10R win with 1G consecutive wins. The first time-saving state is set when the special game (10R) based on the first win ends, but immediately afterwards the second special symbol variation related to the second win begins, and the termination condition of the first time-saving state (the second termination condition mentioned above) is met, so the first time-saving state ends and the normal state is set. In the normal state, the normal symbol lottery table 1 shown in Figure 6(a) is selected in the normal symbol lottery, so the normal mechanism 54 is not set to long opening. On the other hand, the first time-saving state is set when the special game (10R) based on the second win ends, but in this case it does not transition to the normal state. Therefore, in the first time-saving state (long opening winning probability 1 / 1), one normal symbol lottery is performed, the long opening of the normal mechanism 54 is set, two game balls enter the second start opening 49, and it transitions to the special game state (i.e., a 1G consecutive win).

[0145] Even if a time-saving state (first time-saving state or second time-saving state) is set based on the first win, the display of the second special symbol related to the second win immediately begins, and the time-saving state ends accordingly. In this embodiment, it can also be said that the number of time-saving rounds (time-saving end condition) is set based on the second (last) win. As shown in Figure 12, if the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win, the system transitions to the first time-saving state based on the end of the special game (10R). Although not shown in the illustration, if the second (last) win is a 10R win, the system transitions to the second time-saving state based on the end of the special game (10R). Also, if the second (last) win is a 2R win, the system transitions to the second time-saving state based on the end of the special game (2R).

[0146] When the special game based on the first win (for example, 10R) ends, the big win ending process is executed internally. At the end of this big win ending process, the game state transitions from the normal state to the time-saving state (state setting after a big win). At this time, if a second special random value is held (if a special symbol 2 is held), the process to transition from the time-saving state to the normal state is executed before the execution of the common process at the start of the variation of the second special symbol based on that hold (if there is no special symbol 2 held, the game does not transition to the normal state). As shown in Figure 12, for the second special random number (special symbol 2 reserve) that was last stored (memorized), the long opening of the regular feature 54 is determined in the first regular symbol lottery after the special game ends, based on winning a 10R jackpot in a 1G consecutive win. On the other hand, for the second special random number other than the last stored (memorized) second special random number (special symbol 2 reserve) (the first second special random number), the long opening of the regular feature 54 is not determined in the first regular symbol lottery after the special game ends, based on winning a 10R jackpot in a 1G consecutive win. This is because the game state at the time of the execution of the regular symbol lottery is the normal state. When the special game based on the first win ends, a time-saving state (first time-saving state or second time-saving state) is set. However, based on the start of the variation (one variation) of the special symbol (second special symbol) related to the second win, a process (first process) is performed to end the time-saving state and set the normal state, and after that process, a process related to the drawing of normal symbols (second process) is performed. The system is configured such that a time-saving state is set at the end of the special game based on the first win, and a normal state is set based on the start of the variation of the special symbol (second special symbol) related to the second win, although there is a short period during which the time-saving state is set. In addition, even during the execution of the special game (during a major win), the regular symbol lottery can be executed, and it is possible that the game ball will pass through the gate 48 just before the end of the special game state (at the timing when the special game state ends), and the regular symbol lottery will be executed. For this reason, if care is not taken, a long opening may be won in the regular symbol lottery based on the fact that the time-saving state is set in the interrupt processing immediately after the time-saving state is set (processing at the start of the variation of the special symbol related to the second win). However, in this embodiment, the system is configured so that the first processing is performed first in the interrupt processing, and the second processing is performed after the first processing (care is taken), so a long opening will not be won in that interrupt. In this embodiment, the first interrupt immediately after the time-saving state is set at the end of the special game can also be taken care of.

[0147] In this embodiment, the game can transition to a special game state based on two game balls entering (winning) the second starting opening 49. However, if the normal mechanism 54 closes after the first game ball has entered the second starting opening 49 but the second game ball does not enter the second starting opening 49 (when the long opening ends), the game transitions to a special game state based on the entry of the first game ball, and then transitions to a time-saving state after the special game state ends (in this case, there is no special figure 2 reserve, so the game does not transition to the normal state). In this case, the number of time-saving rounds (time-saving end conditions) in the time-saving state is set based on the first win.

[0148] (Bonus animation) Based on the fact that two game balls have entered (become winners) the second start opening 49, the main control board 200 transmits winning information (specific information), including information related to the first win (information related to the pre-determination result) and information related to the second win (information related to the pre-determination result), to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300). Based on the receipt of the specific information, the performance control means 300 can execute a bonus performance (specific performance related to the execution of a special game) via the liquid crystal display 32, etc. In this embodiment, winning information (specific information) including information related to the first winning item and information related to the second (last) winning item is transmitted. However, the information related to the first winning item and the information related to the second (last) winning item may be transmitted separately (as separate specific information).

[0149] As shown in Figure 11, the performance control means 300 decides to execute a normal bonus performance (normal win performance) as a bonus performance when the specific information (a combination of two specific pieces of information) indicates "2R+2R". The normal bonus performance is a performance that is executed over 4 rounds. In the case of "2R+2R", the number of balls that can be obtained (prize balls) is 320 (160+160), so the normal bonus performance can be said to be a performance that is executed when the number of balls obtained is 320.

[0150] The performance control means 300 decides to execute a special bonus performance (special win performance) as a bonus performance when the specific information (a combination of two specific pieces of information) indicates any of "10R+2R", "2R+10R", or "10R+10R" (i.e., when the total number of rounds is 12R or more). The special bonus performance is a performance that is executed over at least 12 rounds. In this embodiment, since the number of balls that can be obtained in 2R is 160 and the number of balls that can be obtained in 10R is 1360, the special bonus performance can be said to be a performance that is executed when the number of balls obtained is 1520 or more. When the special bonus performance is started, the player can understand that they can obtain 1520 balls or more.

[0151] Here, we will explain the control in the case where "2R + 10R" is obtained (or has been obtained) using Figure 13. The main control board 200 sets a long opening pattern based on the fact that the regular symbol lottery has been won in the time-saving state, and opens the regular mechanism 54. The main control board 200 uses the second special random value obtained based on the entry of the first game ball into the second start port 49 to perform a second special symbol lottery (displaying the second special symbol in a variable manner). The main control board 200 retains the second special random value obtained based on the fact that the second game ball entered the second starting opening 49 during the fluctuation. The main control board 200 stops (confirms) the variation of the second special symbol based on the entry of the first game ball, and after the opening time for the major role (0.1s), starts the special game (2R).

[0152] The performance control means 300, after the opening state of the normal mechanism 54 related to the long opening pattern is started, and until the second game ball enters the second start opening 49, executes a performance (aim performance) via the liquid crystal display 32 or the like, instructing the player to aim and fire the game ball at the second start opening 49. The performance control means 300 receives specific information (in this case, "2R+10R") including the pre-determined result after the second game ball enters the second starting opening 49, and starts a special bonus performance based on the specific information.

[0153] When the special game (2R) ends, the main control board 200, after a major role ending time (0.1s), executes a second special symbol lottery based on the reserved second special random value (starts the display of the second special symbol's variation), stops the second special symbol (confirms it), and after a major role opening time (0.1s), starts the special game (10R). The main control board 200 starts the 10R special game after the 2R special game ends, but the performance control means 300 continues the execution of the special bonus performance without switching the performance that is currently running.

[0154] As will be explained in detail later (and illustrated), the performance control means 300 displays the total number of prize balls acquired (paid out) in at least one series of special games while the special bonus performance is being executed, and updates (counts up) the number of prize balls acquired display each time a payout is made.

[0155] The performance control means 300 determines, based on the received specific information, whether the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win. If the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win, the next win (1G consecutive) is confirmed, so the special bonus performance is not terminated when the special game (12R in this example) ends, but continues to run (maintain) the special bonus performance. In this example, the second win in "2R + 10R" is assumed to be a 1G consecutive 10R win. Therefore, even when the special game (12R in total) ends, the performance control means 300 does not terminate the special bonus performance, but at least continues to display the number of prize balls won (carries over information regarding the number of balls won).

[0156] Based on the fact that the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win, the main control board 200 transitions to the first time-saving state after the special game (10R) ends and the big role ending time (0.1s), and based on the fact that it has won one regular symbol lottery (long opening winning probability 1 / 1), it sets a long opening pattern and opens the regular mechanism 54. The main control board 200 uses the second special random value obtained based on the entry of the first game ball into the second start port 49 to perform a second special symbol lottery (displaying the second special symbol in a variable manner). The main control board 200 retains the second special random value obtained based on the fact that the second game ball entered the second start opening 49 during the fluctuation. The main control board 200 stops (confirms) the variation of the second special symbol based on the entry of the first game ball, and after the opening time for the major role (0.1s), starts the special game.

[0157] The performance control means 300 receives specific information, including the pre-determination result, after the second game ball enters the second start opening 49, and determines whether the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win. If the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win, the performance control means 300 controls the special bonus performance so that it does not end even after the special game related to the specific information has ended. On the other hand, if the second win is not a 1G consecutive 10R win, the special bonus performance ends based on the fact that the special game related to the specific information has ended.

[0158] The performance control means 300 determines whether the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win each time it receives specific information, and decides whether to continue the special bonus performance. If the second win is not a 1G consecutive 10R win, the game transitions to the second time-saving state based on the end of the last special game, and in the second time-saving state, the performance control means 300 executes a performance (time-saving performance) appropriate to the second time-saving state. If the information related to the first win and the information related to the second (last) win are transmitted separately (as separate specific information), it is determined whether the win related to the second (last) specific information is a 1G consecutive 10R win. The following explanation assumes that specific information including the information related to the first win and the information related to the second (last) win is transmitted.

[0159] Next, we will explain a specific example of a special bonus effect using Figure 14. Here, we will explain the case where the effect control means 300 receives specific information indicating that "the second win is a 10R win in a 1G chain" three times in a row, and then receives specific information indicating that it is "2R + 2R" on the next (fourth) attempt.

[0160] (1) First specific information: "2R + 10R" The performance control means 300 initiates a special bonus performance based on the reception of specific information indicating "2R + 10R". The performance control means 300 displays a display on the liquid crystal display 32 as a special bonus performance, which includes a display of the number of prize balls won S1, a display of the number of prize balls that can be won S2, and a right-hand play display S3 (right-hand play instruction display). The display of the number of prize balls that can be won S2 is a display that shows the number of prize balls that can be won in the special game (special game state). By displaying the number of prize balls that can be won S2, the player can grasp at a glance how many prize balls can be won in the special game state. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 14, the performance control means 300 realizes the display by setting the denominator to the number of prize balls that can be won S2 and the numerator to the number of prize balls won S1. The performance control means 300 displays "1500" as the number of prize balls that can be won S2, based on the received specific information that the total number of rounds is 12R and the number of prize balls that can be won is 1520. When the performance control means 300 displays the number of prize balls that can be won S2, it does not consider (count) the prize balls (1 prize ball) that can be won based on the entry of a game ball into the first large prize pocket 50. The performance control means 300 determines whether the second hit in the received specific information is a 10R hit in a 1G chain. In this example, since the second hit is a 10R hit in a 1G chain, the performance control means 300 does not end the special bonus performance even after the special game of a total of 12R has ended, and continues the special bonus performance.

[0161] (2) Second set of specific information: "10R + 10R" The performance control means 300 receives specific information indicating that it is "10R+10R". Based on the received specific information that the total number of rounds is 20R and the number of balls that can be won is 2720, the performance control means 300 decides to add "2700" to the number of balls that can be won display S2 (specifically, it decides to set the number of balls that can be won display S2 to "4200"). At this time, the performance control means 300 can execute an additional win animation based on this decision, and executes an additional win animation that displays, for example, "+2700" (addition amount display). The additional win animation is an animation that notifies the player of the increase in the number of balls that can be won. After executing the additional win animation, the performance control means 300 updates the number of balls that can be won display S2 to "4200" (value after the addition) (adds 2700). Although not shown in the illustration, the system may be configured to execute an animation that encourages the player whether or not an additional win will occur (an additional win encouragement animation). The performance control means 300 determines whether the second hit in the received specific information is a 10R hit in a 1G chain. In this example, since the second hit is a 10R hit in a 1G chain, the performance control means 300 does not end the special bonus performance even after the special game of a total of 20R has ended, and continues the special bonus performance.

[0162] (3) Third specific information: "2R+10R" The performance control means 300 receives specific information indicating that it is "2R + 10R". The performance control means 300 decides to add "1500" to the payout display S2 based on the received specific information that the total number of rounds is 12R and the number of payout balls that can be obtained is 1520 (specifically, it decides to make the payout display S2 "5700"). Based on this decision, the performance control means 300 can execute an additional payout performance, for example, by executing an additional payout performance that displays "+1500" (addition amount display). The performance control means 300 determines whether the second hit in the received specific information is a 10R hit in a 1G chain. In this example, since the second hit is a 10R hit in a 1G chain, the performance control means 300 does not end the special bonus performance even after the special game of a total of 12R has ended, and continues the special bonus performance.

[0163] (4) Fourth specific information: "2R+2R" The performance control means 300 receives specific information indicating that it is "2R+2R". The performance control means 300 decides to add "300" to the payout display S2 based on the received specific information that the total number of rounds is 4R and the number of payout balls that can be obtained is 320 (specifically, it decides to make the payout display S2 "6000"). Based on this decision, the performance control means 300 can execute an additional payout performance, for example, by executing an additional payout performance that displays "+300" (addition amount display). The performance control means 300 determines whether the second hit in the received specific information is a 1G consecutive 10R hit. In this example, since the second hit is not a 1G consecutive 10R hit, the performance control means 300 terminates the special bonus performance based on the completion of the special game totaling 4R. The performance control means 300 can terminate the special bonus performance and execute the ending performance. In the ending performance, for example, the total number of prize balls won in the series of special games is displayed. In this example, based on the fact that the number of prize balls won display S1 is 6080 and the number of prize balls that can be won display S2 is 6000, the display "6080 / 6000" is shown when the special bonus performance ends (as the ending performance).

[0164] Even if the second winning combination in the received specific information is a 10R win in a 1G chain, if the system is configured to end the special bonus sequence based on the end of the special game, that is, if a new bonus sequence is executed (started) each time specific information is received, it is not possible to give the player the feeling that a single win (bonus) is lasting for a long time. In this embodiment, the special bonus sequence continues as long as the specific condition that the second winning combination in the received specific information is a 10R win in a 1G chain is met. In other words, it is possible to make the player perceive (visually) that a single win (bonus) is lasting for a long time. As a result, it is possible to make the player visually perceive (perceive) that a large amount of balls (6080 balls in the example in Figure 14) have been won in a single win, thereby giving the player a sense of satisfaction.

[0165] (Another example of a bonus effect) Figure 14 shows an example where the performance control means 300 receives specific information (second specific information) indicating "10R+10R," and based on the fact that the total number of rounds in the received specific information is 20R and the number of balls that can be obtained is 2720, it executes an additional performance that displays "+2700." In this case, the second win related to the specific information is a 1G consecutive 10R. In other words, the next win (1G consecutive) is confirmed. The next specific information will be "2R+2R" even if it has the smallest payout. As previously mentioned, the payout in the "2R+2R" special game is 320 balls.

[0166] Therefore, the performance control means 300 may receive specific information indicating "10R + 10R" (totaling 20R), and if the second win related to the specific information is a 1G consecutive 10R, it may execute an additional win animation that displays "+3000" (additional win display). After the execution of the additional win animation, the number of winable prize balls display S2 is set to "4500" (adding 3000). The performance control means 300 may also execute an additional win animation where the additional amount is the number of prize balls that can be won in the current win plus the minimum number of prize balls (300) that can be won in the next confirmed win (1G consecutive win). In this embodiment, an additional win animation may be executed that adds the next number of winable prize balls (the minimum number of winable prize balls in the next win) in advance, before the number of winable prize balls in the next win (1G consecutive win) is determined (confirmed). This makes it possible to diversify the animations and broaden the range of gameplay.

[0167] The performance control means 300 may, if the second win related to the specific information indicating "10R+10R" is a 1G consecutive 10R, determine by lottery whether to perform a bonus performance of "+2700" or a bonus performance of "+3000". Furthermore, when the "+3000" bonus animation is performed, the animation control means 300, upon receiving the next specific information (specific information indicating the third "2R+10R" in Figure 14), will perform a bonus animation that subtracts "300" (the amount already added), based on the fact that although the number of balls that can be obtained is 1520, "300" has already been added to the number of balls that can be obtained (display S2 of the number of balls that can be obtained). Specifically, it will perform a bonus animation that displays "+1200" instead of "+1500". After the execution of this bonus animation, the number of balls that can be obtained display S2 will be set to "5700" (by adding 1200).

[0168] The performance control means 300 receives specific information (total 12R) indicating that it is "2R + 10R", and if the number of balls that can be obtained is 1520, it may perform an additional performance that displays "+1500". At this time, it may also perform an additional performance that displays "+1800" based on the fact that the second win related to the specific information is a 1G consecutive 10R. After the performance of the additional performance, 1800 is added to the number of balls that can be obtained display S2. The performance control means 300 may, by lottery, decide whether to perform a "+1500" bonus performance or a "+1800" bonus performance if the second win related to the specific information is a 10R 1G consecutive win. Furthermore, if the "+1800" bonus animation is performed, the next time a bonus animation is performed, the already added "300" will be subtracted from the bonus animation.

[0169] Furthermore, if the performance control means 300 receives specific information (totaling 20R) indicating, for example, "10R + 10R" on the first turn, and the second win related to said specific information is a 10R 1G consecutive win, the initial value of the number of prize balls that can be obtained S2 may be set to "3000" instead of "2700". In other words, the number of prize balls that can be obtained in that win may be set to the number of prize balls that can be obtained in the next win (1G consecutive win) and reported as the number of prize balls that can be obtained.

[0170] Furthermore, if the performance control means 300 decides to set the number of prize balls that can be won S2 to, for example, 3000 (increase by 3000), it may implement the display (addition) in two stages (multiple stages) rather than one stage. That is, instead of displaying (increasing) 3000 all at once, it may first display 1500 ("+1500") (add 1500), and then display 3000 ("+1500") at a predetermined timing (add 1500).

[0171] Furthermore, multiple types of special bonus sequences are provided, and the sequence control means 300 may perform a lottery based on the reception of specific information to determine which of the multiple types of special bonus sequences to execute. For example, a first special bonus sequence, a second special bonus sequence, and a third special bonus sequence may be provided, and each sequence may feature different characters and have different bonus sequences (gameplay).

[0172] The special bonus sequence may continue as long as the specific condition is met, such as the second win in the specific information being a 10R win in a 1G sequence. However, the lottery to determine the type of special bonus sequence is performed only when the specific information is received for the first time, and thereafter, the determined special bonus sequence may continue.

[0173] In the first special bonus sequence, the first character may appear at a predetermined trigger, prompting the player to press the sequence button 26 (PUSH sequence). If a bonus is decided upon when the PUSH sequence is executed, the bonus (amount of bonus) will be announced based on the press of the sequence button 26. On the other hand, if a bonus is not decided (i.e., it is a tease), pressing the sequence button 26 will not announce the bonus (it will be announced that no bonus will be awarded).

[0174] In the second special bonus sequence, a second character may appear at a predetermined trigger and attempt to cut the S2 display of the number of balls that can be won with a sword. If a bonus is decided upon when this sequence is performed, the S2 display of the number of balls that can be won will be cut, and its value will be updated to the value after the bonus. On the other hand, if a bonus is not decided upon (i.e., it is a tease), the S2 display of the number of balls that can be won will not be cut, and the S2 display will not be updated (indicating that no bonus will be awarded).

[0175] In the third special bonus sequence, the number of prize balls that can be won (S2) is not displayed, and instead, the number of playable rounds is displayed. In the example shown in Figure 14, based on the reception of the first specific information, the number of playable rounds displayed is "12", based on the reception of the second specific information, an additional "+20" is added, and the number of playable rounds displayed becomes "32", based on the reception of the third specific information, an additional "+12" is added, and the number of playable rounds displayed becomes "44", and based on the reception of the fourth specific information, an additional "+4" is added, and the number of playable rounds displayed becomes "48". If the third character appears at a predetermined trigger and the execution of the additional rounds is decided, the third character fires a gun, and the value of the number of playable rounds displayed is updated to the value after the additional rounds. On the other hand, if the execution of the additional rounds is not decided (in the case of a tease), even if the third character fires a gun, the number of playable rounds displayed is not updated (it is announced that the additional rounds will not be executed). In addition to displaying the number of playable rounds, a display indicating the current round number of the special game may also be shown. Furthermore, for example, if specific information indicating "10R+10R" (totaling 20R) is received, and the second win related to that specific information is a 10R 1G consecutive win, a bonus animation displaying "+24" may be executed because a special game of at least 4R will be performed in the next win (1G consecutive win). Also, if specific information indicating "2R+10R" (totaling 12R) is received, and the second win related to that specific information is a 10R 1G consecutive win, a bonus animation displaying "+16" may be executed because a special game of at least 4R will be performed in the next win (1G consecutive win).

[0176] (Suggestion of additional bonus) The performance control means 300 can execute a performance that suggests in advance that there is a high probability that a bonus will be awarded. In a special bonus performance that displays the number of balls that can be won S2, the performance control means 300 may, based on the decision to award a bonus, execute a performance that sets the first digit of the number of balls that can be won S2 to a number other than 0 and stops it in that state for a predetermined time as a performance that suggests a bonus. For example, if a bonus is decided to set the number of balls that can be won S2 to a predetermined value of 1800 or more, the number of balls that can be won S2 may be set to "1507" and stopped for a predetermined time to suggest a bonus. If the first digit of the number of balls that can be won S2 stops to a number other than 0, it can give the player a sense of unease. By stopping the first digit of the number of balls that can be won S2 to a number other than 0, it can give the player the expectation that a bonus may occur.

[0177] Furthermore, the performance control means 300 may, even after deciding to perform an additional payout, delay the timing of the additional payout and not update the number of available payout balls display S2, and perform an additional payout suggestion performance in which the value of the number of acquired payout balls display S1 (numerator) is greater than the value of the number of available payout balls display S2 (denominator) by a predetermined number (e.g., 200). For example, an additional payout suggestion performance may be performed in which "1700 / 1500" is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. As the numerator value gradually increases with each payout, but the denominator value does not keep pace, this can give the player a sense of unease. By making the number of acquired payout balls display S1 (numerator) greater than the number of available payout balls display S2 (denominator) by a predetermined number, the player can be made to anticipate that an additional payout (the denominator catching up to the numerator (the denominator exceeding the numerator)) may occur. In this embodiment, the probability of an additional payout occurring may be set to be higher the greater the value of the numerator is than the value of the denominator, and the greater the difference between the numerator and the denominator.

[0178] (Special RUSH performance) As previously described, the performance control means 300 receives specific information (totaling 20R) indicating "10R + 10R", and if the second win related to the specific information is a 1G consecutive 10R, it can execute a bonus performance that displays "+3000" (bonus display). In this embodiment, a special RUSH performance (a type of special bonus performance) is provided as a dedicated performance to notify the acquisition of 3000 balls (or more). When the special RUSH performance is started (executed), the player can understand that they can acquire 3000 balls or more. The special RUSH performance is, for example, a performance in which white text is displayed on a black background.

[0179] The performance control means 300 receives specific information indicating "10R+10R" and, if the second win related to the specific information is a 1G consecutive 10R win (the condition is met), it performs a lottery (special RUSH lottery) to determine whether or not to execute the special RUSH performance. If the performance control means 300 wins the special RUSH lottery, it executes the special RUSH performance. Furthermore, if the performance control means 300 receives specific information indicating "10R+10R" again after starting the special RUSH performance, and the conditions are met that the second win related to said specific information is a 1G consecutive 10R win, it will continue the special RUSH performance regardless of the result of the special RUSH lottery. On the other hand, if the performance control means 300 receives specific information after starting the special RUSH performance, but the conditions that the specific information indicates "10R+10R" and the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win are not met, it will terminate the special RUSH performance.

[0180] Here, as shown in Figure 15, the case where the performance control means 300 receives specific information (referred to as special specific information) indicating "10R+10R" and "the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win" three times in a row, and then receives specific information indicating "2R+2R" on the next (fourth) time, will be explained. In this embodiment, the probability of winning the special RUSH lottery based on the first (initial) special specific information (approximately 20%) is lower than the probability of winning the special RUSH lottery based on the second and subsequent special specific information (approximately 50%).

[0181] (1) First time The performance control means 300 executes a special RUSH lottery based on the receipt of specially identified information. In this example, the special RUSH lottery is not won, and the special RUSH performance is not executed (started). The performance control means 300 then executes a special bonus performance (for example, a first special bonus performance).

[0182] (2) Second time The performance control means 300 executes a special RUSH lottery based on the receipt of specially identified information. In this example, the special RUSH lottery is won, and the performance control means 300 executes (starts) the special RUSH performance. The performance control means 300 displays, for example, "Special RUSH +3000", and then adds 3000 to the number of prize balls that can be won display S2.

[0183] (3) Third time The performance control means 300 receives special specific information, but since it is already executing a special RUSH performance, it continues the special RUSH performance that is currently running. The performance control means 300 displays, for example, "+3000", and then adds 2700 to the number of prize balls that can be won display S2. The performance control means 300 displays "+3000" in the performance, but since "300" was already added to the number of prize balls that can be won display S2 in the previous (second) time, it subtracts "300" and adds 2700 to the number of prize balls that can be won display S2. In this example, the number of prize balls that can be won display S2 becomes "8400". Note that when the number of prize balls won (number of prize balls won display S1) is "5440", "+3000" is displayed, and it is possible to win 3000 balls from the time "+3000" is displayed.

[0184] (4) 4th time The performance control means 300 receives specific information, but since it is not specially specific information, it decides to terminate the special RUSH performance. Also, since "300" has already been added to the number of prize balls that can be won display S2 in the previous (third) round, it does not add the value (300) to the number of prize balls that can be won display S2 based on the receipt of the specific information. The performance control means 300 terminates the special RUSH performance based on the termination of the special game related to the specific information.

[0185] (modified version) The performance control means 300 updates the memory value of a specific counter (not shown) based on information related to the payout of game value (game medium) received from the main control board 200, manages the total amount of balls (prize balls) paid out (acquired) in a series of special games, and displays the acquired prize ball count display S1. The performance control means 300 continues the special bonus performance without ending it if the specific condition that the second win in the received specific information is a 10R win in a 1G chain is met. However, even if the specific condition is met, if the memory value of the specific counter reaches a predetermined value (for example, 8000) during the execution of the special bonus performance (if it exceeds the predetermined value), the special bonus performance ends once (the ending performance is executed) (regardless of the number of wins). The performance control means 300 then resets the specific counter to set the memory value to 0 and starts the special bonus performance again (from the opening).

[0186] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A predetermined area (second starting port 49) provided in the aforementioned game area, A movable member (ordinary mechanism 54) capable of changing the ease with which the game medium enters the predetermined area, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, The system includes a performance control means (performance control means 300) that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, The main control means is A lottery information acquisition means (special symbol lottery means 230) that sequentially stores lottery information (second special random value) obtained based on the entry of the game medium into the predetermined area, A lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) reads the stored lottery information and performs a lottery related to the execution of a special game, A pre-determination means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a pre-determination on the lottery information before the lottery means reads the lottery information and performs the lottery, A movable member control means (ordinary mechanism control means 224) controls the movable member to operate between a first state in which it is difficult for the game medium to enter the predetermined area and a second state in which it is easy for the game medium to enter the predetermined area. The game includes a game state transition control means (game state transition control means 250) that controls the transition of the game state between a plurality of game states, including a normal state in which the movable member is less likely to enter the second state and a specific state (time-saving state) in which the movable member is more likely to enter the second state. The main control means transmits specific information, including the result of the pre-determination performed on the lottery information, to the performance control means based on the fact that the game medium has entered the predetermined area in the specific state. The performance control means is capable of executing a specific performance related to the execution of the special game based on the received specific information, and if the result of the pre-determination related to the last stored lottery information among the multiple lottery information related to the received specific information is a specific result, it is possible to continue the specific performance without terminating it even if the special game related to the specific information has ended.

[0187] If the result of the pre-determination relating to the last stored lottery information among the multiple lottery information is a specific result, the specific performance will continue even after the special game relating to the specific information has ended. Therefore, the player can experience the specific performance relating to the execution of the special game for a longer period of time, and if the specific performance is performed for a long period of time, the player can gain a sense of satisfaction. In other words, the enjoyment of the game can be enhanced.

[0188] Furthermore, the gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A predetermined area (second starting port 49) provided in the aforementioned game area, A movable member (ordinary mechanism 54) capable of changing the ease with which the game medium enters the predetermined area, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, The system includes a performance control means (performance control means 300) that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, The main control means is A lottery information acquisition means (special symbol lottery means 230) that sequentially stores lottery information (second special random value) obtained based on the entry of the game medium into the predetermined area, A lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) reads the stored lottery information and performs a lottery related to the execution of a special game, A pre-determination means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a pre-determination on the lottery information before the lottery means reads the lottery information and performs the lottery, A movable member control means (ordinary mechanism control means 224) controls the movable member to operate between a first state in which it is difficult for the game medium to enter the predetermined area and a second state in which it is easy for the game medium to enter the predetermined area. The game includes a game state transition control means (game state transition control means 250) that controls the transition of the game state between a plurality of game states, including a normal state in which the movable member is less likely to enter the second state and a specific state (time-saving state) in which the movable member is more likely to enter the second state. The main control means transmits specific information, including the result of the pre-determination performed on the lottery information, to the performance control means based on the fact that the game medium has entered the predetermined area in the specific state. The performance control means can execute a specific performance related to the execution of the special game based on the received specific information, and if the result of the pre-determination related to the last stored lottery information among the plurality of lottery information related to the received specific information is a specific result, it is possible to continue the specific performance without terminating it even if the special game related to the specific information ends, and if the value of a specific counter, whose stored value is updated based on the payout of game value during the execution of the specific performance, reaches a predetermined value, the specific performance is terminated.

[0189] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the gaming machine of this embodiment has basically the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment, the description of similar configurations will be omitted or simplified.

[0190] Similar to the first embodiment, if a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state, the game transitions to a special game state, and after the special game state ends, the game basically (approximately 97%) transitions to a second time-saving state (probability of winning a long opening: 1 / 99.902). In the second time-saving state, if a normal symbol lottery is won and a long opening pattern for the normal mechanism 54 is obtained (if a long opening is won), the normal mechanism 54 opens for a long time (the game enters the second state in the second embodiment), and the liquid crystal display 32 executes an effect (Aim effect, first effect) that instructs the player to aim the game ball at the second start opening 49 (encouraging the player to put the game ball into the second start opening 49). That is, when the effect control means 300 receives information from the main control board 200 indicating the start (decision, execution) of the long opening of the normal mechanism 54, it executes the Aim effect.

[0191] Figure 16(a) shows the state when the "Aim!" animation is being performed on the liquid crystal display 32. In the "Aim!" animation, an image is displayed prompting the player to insert the game ball into the second start opening 49. The image displays the words "Aim!!" and an arrow pointing in the direction of the second start opening 49. In addition, a meter that can notify the remaining time for the long opening of the regular mechanism 54 may be displayed as part of the display (image) related to the "Aim!" animation. This meter corresponds to the remaining opening time (6 seconds) of the regular mechanism 54, and for example, it starts with the gauge full and decreases as the remaining opening time decreases. In addition, a display that serves as both an arrow and a meter may be displayed.

[0192] In this embodiment (similar to the first embodiment), while the regular mechanism 54 is open for one long period (6 seconds), the first game ball enters (wins) the second start port 49 (the second special symbol is displayed based on this entry), and then the second game ball enters (wins) the second start port 49, and the second special random value (lottery information) can be held. In other words, during one long period of opening of the regular mechanism 54, multiple game balls (a predetermined number: 2 in this embodiment) can enter (win) the second start port 49 (multiple game balls can be charged). In this embodiment, multiple balls are described as 2, but there may be more than 2.

[0193] In this embodiment, the variation time for the second special symbol is set to a short variation time of approximately 0.5 seconds. Hereinafter, during one long opening of the regular mechanism 54, the first game ball to enter will be referred to as the "first game ball," and the second (last) game ball to enter will be referred to as the "second game ball."

[0194] Based on the winning result of the long opening, the main control board 200 opens the regular mechanism 54 for a long time. This allows the game ball to enter the second starting port 49. Next, based on the entry of the first game ball into the second starting port 49, the main control board 200 performs a second special symbol lottery, displays the second special symbol in a variable state (0.5 seconds), and then displays the second special symbol in a stopped state. Next, based on the result of the second special symbol lottery, which is a win (minor win), the first special mechanism 56 is opened and the distribution means is set to pass through a specific area. This makes it possible for the game ball to pass through the specific area. Also, based on the entry of the second game ball into the second starting port 49, the main control board 200 reserves the second special random value. At this time, the above-mentioned pre-determination is performed and the pre-determination result is associated with the second special random value. Similar to the first embodiment, each time a game ball enters the second starting port 49 during a long opening (1 time), a second special symbol lottery is performed. If a win (minor win) is obtained consecutively, a special game (special game state) based on the previous win is performed, followed by a special game (special game state) based on the next win. In this embodiment, a win (specific result) refers collectively to minor win 1, minor win 2, and minor win 3 shown in Figure 8(b). A win is the result of the special symbol lottery and can be said to be the result related to the execution of the special game.

[0195] The performance control means 300 can receive the result of the special symbol lottery based on the entry of the first game ball (the one in question) and the result of the pre-determination (special symbol lottery) based on the entry of the second game ball (reserved 1) during the period from the start to the end of one long opening. The pre-determination performed by the special symbol lottery means 230 can be treated as part of the special symbol lottery. The performance control means 300 determines the type of win (see Figure 11) based on the result of the special symbol lottery based on the entry of the first game ball and the result of the special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second game ball, and can execute performances (bonus performances, performances related to major roles) according to the type of win (combination of wins). As shown in Figure 13, the performance control means 300 starts the bonus performance based on the entry of the second (last) game ball (based on the result of the pre-determination related to the second game ball being obtained).

[0196] Figure 16(b) shows the liquid crystal display 32 immediately after the first game ball enters the second start opening 49, following the start of the "Aim!" animation. In this embodiment, the "Aim!" animation does not end based on the first game ball entering the second start opening 49 (i.e., the second special symbol lottery based on that ball being executed). That is, the "Aim!" animation continues until the second (last) game ball enters the second start opening 49 (i.e., until the second special symbol lottery based on that ball being executed). In other words, the animation control means 300 can execute the "Aim!" animation until the second game ball enters the second start opening 49.

[0197] Although the "Aim!" animation appears to continue visually, internally, a minor win game state (part of a series of special game states) is initiated based on the cessation (confirmation) of the special symbol variation that begins with the entry of the first game ball, and the first special mechanism 56 opens (and the distribution means passes through a specific area). At this time, even though the first special mechanism 56 opens (and the distribution means passes through a specific area), the LCD display 32 does not display (notify) anything related to the open state, the display related to the "Aim!" animation continues, and the system waits for the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49.

[0198] Furthermore, if a game ball enters the first large prize slot 50 (specific area) during the waiting period, or if a game ball enters the second large prize slot 52 during a special game (round game) after the game ball has passed through the specific area, the display devices other than the LCD display 32 (for example, the front frame lamp 12 or speaker 14) will execute a display (prize entry display) corresponding to the entry of the game ball.

[0199] Figure 16(c) shows the LCD display 32 immediately after the second (last) game ball enters the second start opening 49. Since the type of win can be determined based on the second game ball entering the second start opening 49 (the second special symbol lottery based on this entry has been performed), the LCD display 32 executes a special game (bonus) start animation (opening animation) corresponding to the type of win based on the second game ball entering the second start opening 49. In the special game start animation (second animation), an image is displayed to announce the start of the special game. This image, for example, displays the type of bonus in rainbow colors. Figure 16(c) shows the case where the execution of the special bonus animation is determined based on the total number of rounds based on the two wins being 12R or more, and the words "Special Bonus" are displayed in rainbow colors. Regardless of the state of the main control board 200 (game state), the performance control means 300 executes the special game start performance based on the fact that the second (last) game ball has entered the second start opening 49.

[0200] By the way, the timing at which the second game ball enters the second starting opening 49 varies depending on the situation. This change in timing can be due to factors such as the launch of the game ball or the path of the game ball as it falls through the game area 4.

[0201] If the regular mechanism 54 opens wide, the first game ball enters (a win is obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on this ball), and a second game ball enters before the special game (round game) based on this win is internally started (while the second special symbol is being displayed to change or stop based on the entry of the first game ball), then the special game start animation (Figure 16(c)) is executed based on the entry of the second game ball, and then, as shown in Figure 17(a), displays related to the special game (special game information) such as the bonus name E, attacker icon F, and payout display G (acquired prize ball display S1 and available prize ball display S2) are displayed, and the system waits for the start of the special game. At this time, the displays related to the special game (special game information) whose values ​​(numbers) are updated based on the progress of the game are at their initial display (initial value). In other words, the performance control means 300 displays the special game information at its initial value. Although not shown in Figure 17(a), a "right-hand play" indicator may be displayed as a sign instructing the player to play to the right, as part of the display related to the special game.

[0202] In this embodiment, one round of special game ends when multiple (10) game balls enter the big prize slot, and the attacker icon F is composed of multiple icons corresponding to these multiple game balls. When the special game starts and a game ball enters the big prize slot, one icon that makes up the attacker icon F is removed (hidden) at a time.

[0203] When the regular mechanism 54 opens wide and the first game ball enters (a win is obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on this ball), and after the special game (round game) based on this win has started internally, if a second game ball enters, the special game start animation (Figure 16(c)) is executed based on the entry of the second game ball, and then, as shown in Figure 17(b), displays related to the special game (special game information) such as the bonus name E, attacker icon F, and payout display G (number of prize balls acquired display S1 and number of prize balls that can be acquired display S2) are displayed. In this case, displays related to the special game whose values ​​(numbers) are updated based on the progress of the game will reflect the results of the game that has already been played (game balls entering the big prize pocket). In other words, the attacker icon F is displayed as a number of icons decreasing in proportion to the number of game balls that entered the big prize slot, and the payout display G (acquired prize ball display S1) displays the number of prize balls acquired based on the number of game balls that entered the big prize slot. The performance control means 300 displays special game information that reflects the result of the special game that was executed. Although not shown in Figure 17(b), a right-hand play display instructing the player to play to the right may also be displayed as a display related to the special game.

[0204] As described above, in this embodiment, regardless of the state of the main control board 200 (game state), the performance control means 300 terminates the "Aim!" performance and executes the special game start performance based on the fact that the second (last) game ball has entered the second start port 49 (based on the fact that a win has been obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on that ball's entry). It is possible that a special game state (minor win game state) based on a win being obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the first game ball may start before the second game ball enters, but even in that case, the special game start performance is not executed based on the transition of the game state, but rather the "Aim!" performance is executed (continues) until the second game ball enters, and the special game start performance is executed based on the entry of the second game ball. For this reason, no matter when the second game ball enters, the special game start performance can be clearly seen by the player.

[0205] If the special game start animation is executed based on a transition in the game state, it is possible that the "Aim!" animation will end and the special game start animation will be executed even though two game balls have not been entered (charge incomplete). In other words, it is possible that the player will fail to charge two game balls. If the charge is incomplete, an irregular win (a win equivalent to one game ball), as described later, may occur, leading to a decrease in the enjoyment of the game. According to this embodiment, the special game start animation is not executed based on a transition in the game state, and the special game start animation is executed based on the entry of the second (last) game ball (the "Aim!" animation is executed until the entry of the second game ball), so the player can enter two game balls, and the decrease in the enjoyment of the game due to the execution of an irregular win can be suppressed.

[0206] Furthermore, it is conceivable to configure the system so that the special game start animation is executed based on the transition of the game state, while simultaneously executing the "Aim!" animation until the second game ball enters the target area. In other words, the special game start animation and the "Aim!" animation can be executed simultaneously (in parallel). However, players play the game with the goal of executing the special game, and the special game start animation is a moment where players can immerse themselves in joy (a moment that leaves a strong impression on the player). Therefore, if the animations are duplicated, the effect of the special game start animation will decrease, leading to a decline in the enjoyment of the game. In this embodiment, the animations are not duplicated, the "Aim!" animation is executed until the second game ball enters the target area, and the special game start animation is executed based on the entry of the second game ball. In other words, the special game start animation can be made visible to the player for a predetermined period without overlapping it with the "Aim!" animation. Therefore, a decline in the effect of the special game start animation can be suppressed, and a decline in the enjoyment of the game can be suppressed.

[0207] In the above explanation, it was assumed that two game balls would enter the second starting opening 49 during one long opening of the regular mechanism 54. However, it is possible that during one long opening of the regular mechanism 54, only the first game ball may enter, but the second game ball may not enter, and the long opening time will elapse, causing the regular mechanism 54 to close (the second state in the second mode of the regular mechanism 54 will end, and the regular mechanism 54 will return to the first state). Here, we will explain the case where only one game ball enters the second starting opening 49 during one long opening of the regular mechanism 54 (a win is obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on this entry), and the regular mechanism 54 closes.

[0208] The main control board 200 executes a second special symbol lottery based on the entry of one game ball into the second start port 49, displays the second special symbol in a variable state (0.5 seconds), and then displays the second special symbol as stopped. Next, based on the result of the second special symbol lottery, which is a win (minor win), the first special mechanism 56 is opened and the distribution means is set to pass through a specific area. When the passage of the game ball through the specific area is detected, a special game (special game state) is started. In this case, only the special game state (irregular win) based on a win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of one game ball is executed. That is, if a predetermined number (1 ball) less than multiple (2 balls) enters the second start port 49 during a long opening (1 time), and a win is obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on that entry, the special game based on that win is executed.

[0209] The performance control means 300, during the long opening of the regular feature 54, if a predetermined number (1 ball) of less than 2 balls enters the second start opening 49 (a state in which a win is obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on said ball entry), and the long opening period of the regular feature 54 has elapsed and the regular feature 54 has transitioned from the open state (second state) to the closed state (first state), then, based on the transition (reception of information indicating closure), terminates the "Aim" performance and executes an irregular win performance (irregular big feature performance, third performance). In this case, the performance control means 300 executes the irregular win performance without executing the special game start performance (Figure 16(c)). As shown in Figure 18, the performance control means 300 displays a special image K related to the irregular win performance on the liquid crystal display 32 as an irregular win performance. The special image K is, for example, an image containing a predetermined character, and may be a still image or a moving image. Furthermore, it is preferable that special image K is an image that is not displayed in any other animations besides the irregular win animation, but it may be displayed in other animations as well. Special image K can be said to be an image that suggests that it is an irregular (unconventional) special game.

[0210] The performance control means 300 executes an irregular win performance while a special game state (irregular win) is being executed based on a win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of fewer than several (1) game balls (until the special game state ends and the game transitions to the time-saving state).

[0211] The performance control means 300 does not display special game information (special game information, information related to special game) such as the bonus name E, attacker icon F, and payout display G during irregular win animations. In addition to displaying the special image K, not displaying special game information can further create a sense of unease for the player, making it easier for the player to understand that it is an irregular win.

[0212] Next, we will explain using Figure 19 the case where, in the shortened time state, the regular mechanism 54 opens for a long time (referred to as the first long opening), two game balls enter the second start opening 49 during the first long opening, and the result of the special symbol lottery based on the entry of these two game balls is "the second win is a 10R win with a 1G consecutive bonus" (2R + 10R (1G consecutive)), and during the long opening after the special game (12R) based on this result (referred to as the long opening related to the 1G consecutive bonus), two game balls enter the second start opening 49, and the result of the special symbol lottery based on the entry of these two game balls is "the second win is a 10R win with a 1G consecutive bonus" (2R + 10R (1G consecutive)).

[0213] The performance control means 300 executes the "Aim!" performance based on the start of the first long opening. The performance control means 300 may also start the "Aim!" performance if, as a result of the normal symbol lottery, a long opening of the normal mechanism 54 is determined (when the normal mechanism 54 enters the second state). In the normal symbol lottery, the "Aim!" performance may start during the variation of the normal symbol related to the long opening, or it may start when the variation of the normal symbol related to the long opening stops. In other words, the "Aim!" performance may start even before the normal mechanism 54 is long opened. By starting the "Aim!" performance earlier, the player can be prompted to insert (charge) the game medium into the second start opening 49 more quickly.

[0214] The performance control means 300 executes a special game start performance based on the entry of the second game ball during the first long opening, and then executes a special bonus performance corresponding to the execution of the special game (total of 12 rounds).

[0215] Similar to the first embodiment (Figure 13), the performance control means 300 determines whether the second win is a 10R win in a 1G chain. In this example, the performance control means 300 determines that the second win is a 10R win in a 1G chain, and does not terminate the special bonus performance based on the end of the special game (total of 12R), but continues the special bonus performance. As a result, the display related to the special game (special game information) is carried over.

[0216] The performance control means 300 does not execute the "Aim" performance based on the start of the long opening related to the 1G consecutive win. However, during the long opening related to the 1G consecutive win (during the second long opening), the performance control means 300 illuminates a predetermined lamp (panel LED) on the game board 6 until the second game ball enters, informing that the normal mechanism 54 is in a long opening state.

[0217] Furthermore, the performance control means 300 does not execute the special game start animation based on the fact that a second game ball enters the second start opening 49 during the long opening period related to the 1G consecutive win. The performance control means 300 continues the special bonus animation that is currently running, so that the player perceives (visually) that the bonus is continuing seamlessly.

[0218] In this way, even if the first game ball enters the second starting port 49 during the long opening period related to the 1G consecutive win, the display on the LCD screen 32 (display related to the special bonus effect) does not change. Similar to the initial win (in the case of the "Aim!" effect), the display on the LCD screen 32 basically does not change until the second game ball enters the second starting port 49.

[0219] However, although the display shows that a special bonus is being produced, internally, the minor win game state is initiated based on the stopping (confirmation) of the special symbol variation based on the entry of the first game ball, and the first special mechanism 56 opens (the distribution means enters a specific area). Therefore, if a game ball enters the first large prize entry point 50 (specific area) before the second game ball enters the second start entry point 49, or if a game ball enters the second large prize entry point 52 during a special game (round game) after the game ball has passed through the specific area, the display related to the special game (special game information) may be updated (count up, etc.).

[0220] The performance control means 300 executes an additional bonus animation (for example, displaying the "+2700" image shown in Figure 14) based on the fact that a second game ball enters the second start opening 49 during the long opening period related to the 1G consecutive win, and adds the value related to the bonus to the number of prize balls that can be won display S2. Although not shown in the illustration, an animation prompting the player to press the performance button 26 (PUSH animation) may be executed, and the additional bonus animation may be executed based on the fact that the button has been pressed.

[0221] Furthermore, the performance control means 300 can perform a bonus draw based on the fact that a second game ball enters the second start port 49 during the long opening period related to the 1G consecutive win. Specifically, if the special symbol draw based on the entry of game balls during the said long opening period results in "the second win being a 10R win in a 1G consecutive win," then, similar to the first embodiment, the performance control means 300 can perform a draw to determine whether or not to perform a bonus draw where the bonus amount (e.g., 3000) is the sum of the number of prize balls that can be obtained in the current win (e.g., 2700) and the minimum number of prize balls that can be obtained in the next confirmed win (1G consecutive win) (300). If the bonus draw is won, the value is increased further by the minimum amount that can be obtained next time (e.g., 3000) and this value is added to the number of prize balls that can be obtained display S2. Furthermore, if the bonus lottery is won, the amount won this time (for example, "+2700") may be announced first, and then the minimum amount to be won next time (+300) in the subsequent special game (a predetermined round of gameplay) may be announced. In other words, the bonus amount may be divided and announced in two stages.

[0222] The performance control means 300, in the long opening related to 1G consecutive wins, when fewer than several (1) game balls enter the second start opening 49 (a win is obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on said entry) and the normal mechanism 54 closes, that is, when only 1 game ball enters the second start opening 49, terminates the ongoing bonus performance based on the transition of the normal mechanism 54 to the closed state and starts the irregular win performance (Figure 18) (switches the performance). The performance control means 300 executes the irregular win performance while the special game state (irregular win) related to the win obtained based on the entry of fewer than several (1) game balls is being executed (until the special game state ends and transitions to the time-saving state).

[0223] Furthermore, it is possible that the win obtained based on the ball entry (only one ball entry) will be a 10R win in a 1G consecutive win. In that case, if two game balls enter the second start opening 49 during the long opening related to the 1G consecutive win after the 10R special game ends, a win will be obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on each ball entry, and the special game state based on each win will be executed consecutively, but the irregular win animation will also be executed (continued) in that special game state. The irregular win animation will continue if the 1G consecutive win continues, and if the 1G consecutive win ends, the irregular win animation will end based on the end of the last win (special game) (based on the transition to the time-saving state).

[0224] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A predetermined area (second starting port 49) provided in the aforementioned game area, A movable member (ordinary mechanism 54) capable of changing the ease with which the game ball enters the predetermined area, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means (performance control means 300) that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, It comprises a display means (liquid crystal display 32), The main control means special lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a lottery related to the execution of a special game based on the entry of a game medium into the predetermined area, special game control means (special game execution means 260) that controls the execution of the special game, movable member control means (ordinary accessory control means 224) that performs control to operate the movable member between a first state in which it is difficult for a game medium to enter the predetermined area and a second state in which it is easy for a game medium to enter the predetermined area, game state transition control means (game state transition control means 250) that performs control to transition the game state between a plurality of types of game states including a normal state in which the movable member is unlikely to enter the second state and a specific state in which the movable member is likely to enter the second state, In the mode in which the movable member control means sets the movable member to the second state, there are a first mode in which the second state is set for a first period and a second mode in which the second state is set for a second period longer than the first period, In the specific state, a plurality of game media can enter the predetermined area during the second period in which the movable member is in the second state in the second mode, The result of the lottery includes a specific result related to the execution of the special game, The lottery is executed each time a game medium enters the predetermined area during the second period, and when the specific result is continuously obtained, after the special game based on the previous specific result is executed, the special game based on the next specific result is executed, The effect control means is capable of executing a first effect of displaying an image that prompts the entry of a game medium into the predetermined area when the movable member is in the second state in the second mode in the specific state, When the first effect is executed, the first effect can be executed until the plurality of game media enter the predetermined area, Based on the entry of the plurality of game media into the predetermined area during the execution of the first effect, a second effect different from the first effect is executed.

[0225] Based on the entry of one gaming medium into the predetermined area, the lottery is executed, and based on obtaining the specific result in the lottery, the special game is executed. If the first effect is terminated with the execution of the special game, that is, if the first effect is terminated before the plurality of gaming media enter the predetermined area, the player may fail to cause the plurality of gaming media to enter the predetermined area, and the special game cannot be continuously executed, which may reduce the interest of the game. In the present embodiment, since the first effect is executed until the plurality of gaming media enter the predetermined area, the player can cause the plurality of gaming media to enter the predetermined area according to the first effect, and can suppress the reduction of the interest of the game. Also, based on the entry of one gaming medium into the predetermined area, the lottery is executed, and based on obtaining the specific result in the lottery, the special game is executed. When the second effect is executed based on the execution of the special game, the second effect and the first effect may overlap until the plurality of gaming media enter the predetermined area. When the second effect overlaps with the first effect, the effect of the second effect may be reduced, and the interest of the game may be reduced. In the present embodiment, the first effect is executed until the plurality of gaming media enter the predetermined area, the first effect is terminated based on the entry of the plurality of gaming media into the predetermined area, and the second effect is executed. Since the first effect and the second effect do not overlap, the reduction of the effect of the second effect can be suppressed. That is, the reduction of the interest of the game can be suppressed.

[0226] Also, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, The second effect is an effect of displaying an image for notifying the start of the special game.

[0227] Also, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, Even if, during the second period, none of the multiple game media enter the predetermined area, and fewer than the multiple predetermined game media enter the predetermined area, and the specific result is obtained in the lottery, the special game based on that specific result will be executed. If, during the execution of the first performance, the plurality of game media do not enter the predetermined area, and the second period elapses with fewer than the plurality of predetermined game media entering the predetermined area, and the movable member transitions from the second state to the first state, the performance control means terminates the first performance based on the transition and executes a third performance that displays an image indicating that it is an irregular special game.

[0228] If the special game is based on the lottery obtained based on the entry of a predetermined number of game media (less than the specified number), the third presentation indicating that it is an irregular special game is performed. As a result, the player can become aware that an irregular special game is being performed. This encourages the player to enter the specified number of game media into the predetermined area during the second period.

[0229] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The aforementioned performance control means does not display information related to the special game while the third performance is being executed. By preventing the display of information regarding the special game during the execution of the third performance, it is possible to create a sense of unease in the player. In other words, the player can notice that an irregular version of the special game is being performed. This can encourage the player to place the multiple game media into the predetermined area during the second period.

[0230] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the gaming machine of this embodiment has basically the same configuration as the gaming machines of the first and second embodiments, the description of similar configurations will be omitted or simplified.

[0231] Figure 11 shows the combination (type of win) of the result of the special symbol lottery based on the entry of the first game ball (second special symbol lottery) and the result of the special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second game ball (second special symbol lottery, pre-determination result). As shown in Figure 8(b), the results of the second special symbol lottery (type of minor win symbol) include minor win 1 (1G consecutive 10R win), minor win 2 (10R win), and minor win 3 (2R win). The performance control means 300 can determine which performance (bonus performance) to execute (type of performance) based on the win information received from the main control board 200 during one long opening.

[0232] (Normal bonus sequence) The performance control means 300 can execute a normal bonus performance (normal win performance) as a bonus performance when the type of win is "2R+2R". In the case of "2R+2R", the number of balls that can be obtained (prize balls) is 320 (160+160).

[0233] (Special bonus sequence) The performance control means 300 can execute a special bonus performance (special win performance) as a bonus performance when the type of win is one of "10R+2R", "2R+10R", or "10R+10R" (other than 2R+2R). Since 160 balls can be obtained in 2R and 1360 balls can be obtained in 10R, in the case of "10R+2R" or "2R+10R", the number of balls that can be obtained (prize balls) is 1520. In the case of "10R+10R", the number of balls that can be obtained (prize balls) is 2720.

[0234] (Episode Bonus Scene) The performance control means 300 can execute an episode bonus performance as a bonus performance if the type of win is "10R+2R", "2R+10R", or "10R+10R" (other than 2R+2R). However, if the type of win is "2R+2R", the episode bonus performance is not executed. When the episode bonus performance is executed, first the bonus name is displayed on the LCD display 32, and then the episode movie (story video) is displayed on the LCD display 32. The episode bonus performance is of a length (playback time, duration) that corresponds to a special game totaling 12R (1520 balls). The episode bonus performance is a performance in which the episode movie is displayed for a certain period of time.

[0235] Here, using Figure 20, the display on the liquid crystal display 32 when the episode bonus sequence is executed will be explained. The sequence control means 300 executes (starts) the episode bonus sequence when the type of win is "10R+2R", "2R+10R", or "10R+10R", and the execution conditions for the episode bonus sequence (described later) are met. When the episode bonus sequence is executed, the bonus name is displayed as shown in Figure 20(a), and then the episode movie is played (displayed) as shown in Figure 20(b). Note that although not shown in Figure 20(b), the right-hand play indicator is displayed.

[0236] When the performance control means 300 executes an episode bonus performance, regardless of the type of win, at the start, the number of available prize balls displayed S2 (denominator) is set to "1500" and the number of prize balls won displayed S1 (numerator) is set to "0". The value of the number of prize balls won displayed S1 increases as the game progresses and game balls enter the big prize slot.

[0237] If the type of win is "10R+2R", and if the type of win is "2R+10R" and the second win is not a 1G consecutive 10R win, the episode bonus sequence will also end when the special game (total 12R) ends. At the time of this ending, S1 / S2 will be "1520 / 1500".

[0238] When the type of win is "2R+10R" and the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win, and when the type of win is "10R+10R", as shown in Figure 20(c), a roulette animation occurs at a predetermined timing during the execution of the special game (a predetermined timing before the total of 12R is completed). In the roulette animation, Roulette Q is displayed, and displays related to the next animation to be performed are displayed in order (alternating) within the roulette, until finally the displays related to the next animation to be performed stop. In this embodiment, the next animation to be performed may be an additional win animation or a special bonus animation.

[0239] In this embodiment, if the type of win is "2R+10R" and the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win, the roulette animation will ultimately stop on the display related to the bonus win ("+300"), as shown in the left diagram of Figure 20(d). On the other hand, if the type of win is "10R+10R", the roulette animation will ultimately display the display related to the special bonus win (the words "Special Bonus"), as shown in the right diagram of Figure 20(d). The appearance of Roulette Q can be interpreted as a negation of the fact that the number of winable prize balls is 1500 (1520) (suggesting that more than 1500 can be won), making it a welcome animation for the player.

[0240] (If the display related to the bonus feature stops in Roulette Q) At a predetermined timing, an additional bonus animation is performed, and "300" is added to the number of balls that can be won display S2. In other words, the number of balls that can be won display S2 becomes "1800". Similar to the first embodiment, if the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win, an additional bonus animation can be performed that adds the minimum number of balls that can be won in the next win (300) to the number of balls that can be won in the current win (special game).

[0241] When the special game totaling 12R ends (when 1,520 balls are obtained), the episode bonus effect ends. After that, the long release of the normal accessory 54 related to 1G continuous is executed, and a game ball enters the second start port 49. Until the type of the next win is determined, a predetermined video (or still image) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 (Fig. 21(a)). The predetermined video is, for example, a relatively simple video in which a predetermined character is displayed.

[0242] When the type of the next win is "2R + 2R", a special game of 4R is further executed to end the special game state and shift to the time-saving state (the second time-saving state). In this case, on the liquid crystal display 32, the display of the predetermined video continues during the 4R special game (Fig. 21(b)). Then, based on the end of the special game state, an ending effect is executed and switched to an effect corresponding to the second time-saving state. On the other hand, when the type of the next win is other than "2R + 2R", that is, any one of "10R + 2R", "2R + 10R", or "10R + 10R", a special game of 12R or more (at least 12R) is further executed. In this case, on the liquid crystal display 32, the display of the predetermined video ends, and a promotion effect is executed (Fig. 21(c)). After the promotion effect ends, a special bonus effect is executed (started) (Fig. 21(d)). The promotion effect is, for example, an effect in which an image suggesting that the special bonus effect will be executed (started) next is displayed. The special bonus effect is an effect executed when the number of balls is 1,520 or more, and is a pleasing effect for the player.

[0243] (When the display related to the special bonus effect stops in Roulette Q) Since the type of win is "10R + 10R", a total of 12R of special gameplay is performed, and when the episode bonus performance ends, 8R of special gameplay remains. Furthermore, if the second win for this win is a 1G consecutive 10R win, a 1G consecutive win (a long opening is immediately awarded) will occur and more special gameplay will be performed. On the LCD display 32, the predetermined video is not displayed based on the end of the episode bonus performance, and the special bonus performance is executed (started) based on the end of the episode bonus performance (Figure 21(e)).

[0244] As described above, in this embodiment, an episode bonus sequence may be executed if the type of win is "10R+2R", "2R+10R", or "10R+10R". Furthermore, if an episode bonus sequence is executed, since the length of the episode bonus sequence corresponds to a 12R special game, if the series of special games is 12R or longer (including cases where there are 1G consecutive wins), it can be said that a different sequence will be executed in the special games from the 13th round onwards.

[0245] (Control related to the execution of episode bonus sequences) Next, the control related to the execution of the episode bonus sequences will be explained. In this embodiment, the episode bonus sequences include the first episode bonus sequence, the second episode bonus sequence, the third episode bonus sequence, the fourth episode bonus sequence, and the final episode bonus sequence (fifth episode bonus sequence). The story progresses in this order from the first episode bonus sequence to the final episode bonus sequence. In other words, the story begins with the first episode bonus sequence and concludes with the final episode bonus sequence.

[0246] Similar to the first and second embodiments, if a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state, the game transitions to a special game state. After the special game state ends, the game basically (approximately 97%) transitions to a second time-saving state (probability of winning a long opening: 1 / 99.902). In this second time-saving state, if a regular symbol lottery is won and a long opening pattern for the regular mechanism 54 is obtained (if a long opening is won), the regular mechanism 54 opens for a long time. Then, based on the number of game balls that enter the second start port 49 during the long opening, the second special symbol lottery is executed (a win is obtained), and the type of win is determined. Here, the special game state based on the fact that two game balls enter the second start port 49 during the first long opening in the second time-saving state and a win is obtained in each second special symbol lottery is called the first special game state. Furthermore, after the first special game state ends, the game transitions to the second time-saving state (returns), and in this second time-saving state, a long opening of the regular mechanism 54 is obtained. During this long opening (second long opening), two game balls enter the second start port 49, and a win is obtained in each of the second special symbol draws. This triggered special game state is called the second special game state. Although redundant explanations are omitted, the same applies to the third and subsequent special game states.

[0247] Furthermore, for each special game state, if the second win is a 10R 1G consecutive win, the special game (special game state) will be executed again after the 1G consecutive win, but in that case it will be treated as if one special game state (one win) is continuing. In other words, if the special game state ends and then returns to the special game state via the second time-saving state, it will be considered as advancing to the next special game state (next win).

[0248] As shown in Figure 1, the front frame 10 is provided with a directional pad 27. The directional pad 27 includes at least an up button, a down button, a left button, and a right button that are formed to be pressable. By pressing a predetermined button on the directional pad 27 (for example, the right button), the player can switch the episode bonus effect ON / OFF (episode custom). In other words, the player can choose whether or not to execute the episode bonus effect. If the custom setting related to the episode bonus effect is ON, the effect control means 300 executes the episode bonus effect based on the fulfillment of the execution conditions. On the other hand, if the custom setting related to the episode bonus effect is OFF, the episode bonus effect is not executed.

[0249] The performance control means 300 can execute the first episode bonus performance (the initial episode bonus performance) in the second and subsequent special game states. Furthermore, if a special game state in which no episode bonus performance is executed (a special game state in which performances other than the episode bonus performance are executed) is executed at least once after the execution of the previous episode bonus performance, the performance control means 300 can execute performances from the second episode bonus performance onward. In addition, the performance control means 300 can manage which of the first to final episode bonus performances has been executed during a winning streak. The period in which the special game state and the second time-saving state alternate is called the winning streak period.

[0250] Using Figure 22, we will explain an example where the custom setting related to the episode bonus presentation is always ON during a winning streak.

[0251] (First special game state) Although the winning type is not "2R+2R", the first special game state is not performed (the special bonus performance is performed) because it is the first special game state. (Second special game state) The type of win is something other than "2R+2R", and it is the second special game state. Therefore, the first episode bonus sequence is executed. (Third special game state) Although the type of win is not "2R+2R", a special game state that does not execute at least one episode bonus sequence has not been performed since the previous episode bonus sequence. Therefore, the second episode bonus sequence will not be performed (the special bonus sequence will be performed). (4th special game state) The type of win is other than "2R+2R", and a special game state has been in place where at least one episode bonus sequence has not been performed since the previous episode bonus sequence was executed. Therefore, the second episode bonus sequence will be performed. (5th special game state) Although the type of win is other than "2R+2R", a special game state that does not execute at least one episode bonus sequence has not been performed since the previous episode bonus sequence. Therefore, the third episode bonus sequence will not be performed (the special bonus sequence will be performed). (6th Special Play State) Since the winning combination is "2R+2R", the third episode bonus sequence will not be performed (the normal bonus sequence will be performed). (7th special game state) The type of win is other than "2R+2R", and a special game state has been in place where at least one episode bonus sequence has not been performed since the previous episode bonus sequence was executed. Therefore, the third episode bonus sequence will be performed. (8th special game state) Since the winning combination is "2R+2R", the Episode 4 bonus sequence will not be performed (the regular bonus sequence will be performed). (9th Special Play State) The type of win is other than "2R+2R", and a special game state has been in place where at least one episode bonus sequence has not been performed since the previous episode bonus sequence. Therefore, the 4th episode bonus sequence will be performed. (10th special game state) Although the type of win is other than "2R+2R", a special game state that does not execute at least one episode bonus sequence has not been performed since the previous episode bonus sequence. Therefore, the final episode bonus sequence will not be performed (a special bonus sequence will be performed). (11th Special Play State) The type of win is other than "2R+2R", and a special game state has been in place where at least one episode bonus sequence has not been performed since the previous episode bonus sequence. Therefore, the final episode bonus sequence will be performed.

[0252] A specific counter is provided that can measure the number of times a special game state without an episode bonus performance has been performed since the previous episode bonus performance was executed. The performance control means 300 may perform the second episode bonus performance and subsequent performances if the value of the specific counter is 1 or more. "1" is added to the specific counter based on the execution of a special game state without an episode bonus performance. The value of the specific counter is updated when the custom setting related to the episode bonus performance is ON, and not updated when the custom setting related to the episode bonus performance is OFF. The value of the specific counter is also reset to "0" based on the execution of an episode bonus performance.

[0253] Using Figure 23, we will explain an example where the custom setting related to the episode bonus effect is switched from ON to OFF during a winning streak, and then switched back from OFF to ON.

[0254] (First special game state) The type of win is something other than "2R+2R", and the custom setting is ON, but since it is the first special game state, the first episode bonus animation will not be performed (the special bonus animation will be performed). (Second special game state) The type of win is something other than "2R+2R", the custom setting is ON, and it is the second special game state. Therefore, the first episode bonus sequence is executed. (Third special game state) The type of win is not "2R+2R", and the custom setting is ON, but the value of the specific counter is not 1 or greater. Therefore, the second episode bonus animation will not be performed (the special bonus animation will be performed). However, because the custom setting is ON, the value of the specific counter will be updated based on the third win in which the second episode bonus animation was not performed ("1" will be added). (4th special game state) The type of win is anything other than "2R+2R", custom settings are ON, and the value of a specific counter is 1 or greater. Therefore, the second episode bonus sequence will be executed. Following the execution of the second episode bonus sequence, the value of the specific counter will be reset to "0". (5th special game state) The type of win is something other than "2R+2R," but the custom setting is OFF. Therefore, the Episode 3 bonus animation will not be performed (the special bonus animation will be performed instead). Also, because the custom setting is OFF, the value of the specific counter will not be updated based on the 5th special game state in which the Episode 3 bonus animation was not performed, and will remain at "0." (6th Special Play State) The winning combination is "2R+2R". Also, the custom setting is OFF. Therefore, the Episode 3 bonus sequence will not be performed (the normal bonus sequence will be performed). Furthermore, because the custom setting is OFF, the value of the specific counter will not be updated based on the 6th special game state in which the Episode 3 bonus sequence is not performed, and will remain at "0". (7th special game state) The type of win is not "2R+2R", and the custom setting is ON, but the value of the specific counter is not 1 or greater. Therefore, the Episode 3 bonus animation will not be performed (the special bonus animation will be performed). Also, because the custom setting is ON, the value of the specific counter will be updated ("1" will be added) based on the 7th special game state in which the Episode 3 bonus animation was not performed. (8th special game state) Custom settings are ON, and the value of a specific counter is 1 or greater, but the type of win is "2R+2R". Therefore, the Episode 3 bonus sequence will not be performed (the normal bonus sequence will be performed). At this time, because custom settings are ON, the value of the specific counter will be updated based on the 8th special game state in which the Episode 3 bonus sequence was not performed (it will become "2"). (9th Special Play State) The type of win is not "2R+2R", custom settings are ON, and the value of a specific counter is 1 or greater. Therefore, the Episode 3 bonus sequence will be executed. After the execution of the Episode 3 bonus sequence, the value of the specific counter will be reset to "0". (10th special game state) The type of win is not "2R+2R", and the custom setting is ON, but the value of the specific counter is not 1 or greater. Therefore, the Episode 4 bonus animation will not be performed (the special bonus animation will be performed). Also, because the custom setting is ON, the value of the specific counter will be updated ("1" will be added) based on the 10th special game state in which the Episode 4 bonus animation was not performed. (11th Special Play State) The type of win is anything other than "2R+2R", custom settings are ON, and the value of a specific counter is 1 or greater. Therefore, the Episode 4 bonus sequence will be executed. Following the execution of the Episode 4 bonus sequence, the value of the specific counter will be reset to "0".

[0255] According to this configuration, in continuous special game states (special game states via the second short-time state), the episode bonus effects do not occur continuously. Therefore, the frequency of occurrence of the episode bonus effects can be made appropriate. Also, by enabling custom settings related to the episode bonus effects, the player can select whether to execute the episode bonus effects according to their preferences.

[0256] In this embodiment, a case is shown where, in continuous special game states (special game states via the second short-time state), control is performed so that the episode bonus effects do not occur continuously. However, not limited to this, when the type of win is other than "2R + 2R" and the custom setting is ON, basically the episode bonus effects are executed, and control may be performed so that the episode bonus effects can occur continuously. Also, it may be configured such that the first episode bonus effect can be executed in the first special game state. Examples are shown below as modified examples.

[0257] (Modified Example) Using FIG. 24, an example of the case where the custom setting related to the episode bonus effect is always ON during continuous winning will be described.

[0258] (First Special Game State) Since the type of win is other than "2R + 2R", the first episode bonus effect is executed. (Second Special Game State) Since the type of win is other than "2R + 2R", the second episode bonus effect is executed. (Third Special Game State) Since the type of win is other than "2R + 2R", the third episode bonus effect is executed. (Fourth Special Game State) Since the type of win is other than "2R + 2R", the fourth episode bonus effect is executed. (Fifth Special Game State) Since the type of win is anything other than "2R+2R", the Final Episode Bonus animation will be executed. If the Final Episode Bonus animation is executed during a winning streak, and the custom setting remains ON afterward, the Episode Bonus animation (First Episode Bonus animation) will not be executed again during that winning streak. (6th Special Play State) Since the winning combination is "2R+2R", the normal bonus animation will be performed. (7th special game state) Although the winning combination is not "2R+2R", the episode bonus animation will not be performed because the custom setting remains ON (the special bonus animation will be performed). (8th special game state) Since the winning combination is "2R+2R", the normal bonus animation will be performed. (9th Special Play State) Although the winning combination is not "2R+2R", the episode bonus animation will not be performed because the custom setting remains ON (the special bonus animation will be performed). (10th special game state) Although the winning combination is not "2R+2R", the episode bonus animation will not be performed because the custom setting remains ON (the special bonus animation will be performed). (11th Special Play State) Although the winning combination is not "2R+2R", the episode bonus animation will not be performed because the custom setting remains ON (the special bonus animation will be performed). (12th special game state) Although the winning combination is not "2R+2R", the episode bonus animation will not be performed because the custom setting remains ON (the special bonus animation will be performed). (13th Special Play State) Although the winning combination is not "2R+2R", the episode bonus animation will not be performed because the custom setting remains ON (the special bonus animation will be performed).

[0259] With this configuration, episode bonus sequences can be executed consecutively during consecutive special game states (via the second time-saving state). Therefore, players can view the episode bonus sequences (story) all at once.

[0260] Using Figure 25, we will explain an example where the custom setting related to the episode bonus effect is switched from ON to OFF during a winning streak, and then switched back from OFF to ON.

[0261] (First special game state) The type of win is not "2R+2R", and the custom setting is ON. Therefore, the first episode bonus sequence will be executed. (Second special game state) The winning combination is anything other than "2R+2R," and the custom setting is ON. Therefore, the second episode bonus sequence will be executed. (Third special game state) The type of win is something other than "2R+2R", and the custom setting is ON. Therefore, the Episode 3 bonus sequence will be executed. (4th special game state) The winning combination is not "2R+2R," but the custom setting is turned OFF. Therefore, the Episode 4 bonus sequence will not be performed, and the special bonus sequence will be performed instead. (5th special game state) The winning combination is not "2R+2R," but the custom setting is turned OFF. Therefore, the Episode 4 bonus sequence will not be performed, and the special bonus sequence will be performed instead. (6th Special Play State) Custom settings are turned ON, but the type of win is "2R+2R". Therefore, the normal bonus animation will be performed. (7th special game state) The type of win is something other than "2R+2R", and the custom setting is ON. Therefore, the 4th episode bonus sequence will be executed. Even if the custom setting is turned OFF during a winning streak and then ON again, the previously executed episode bonus sequences will be remembered, and the next episode bonus sequence will be executed. (8th special game state) The winning combination is anything other than "2R+2R," and the custom setting is ON. Therefore, the Final Episode Bonus sequence will be executed. (9th Special Play State) The type of win is not "2R+2R", and the custom setting is ON. Also, the custom setting has remained ON since the Final Episode Bonus sequence was executed. Therefore, the Episode 1 Bonus sequence will not be executed, and the Special Bonus sequence will be executed. (10th special game state) The winning combination is not "2R+2R," but the custom setting is turned OFF. Therefore, a special bonus animation will be triggered. (11th Special Play State) The winning combination is not "2R+2R," but the custom setting is turned OFF. Therefore, a special bonus animation will be triggered. (12th special game state) The type of win is not "2R+2R", and the custom setting is ON. Furthermore, this ON setting was turned OFF after the Final Episode Bonus sequence and then turned ON again (it is not that the custom setting was ON from the time the Final Episode Bonus sequence was executed). Therefore, the 1st Episode Bonus sequence is executed. If the custom setting is turned OFF after the Final Episode Bonus sequence has been executed and then turned ON again, the sequence will start from the 1st Episode Bonus sequence. (13th Special Play State) The winning combination is anything other than "2R+2R," and the custom setting is ON. Therefore, the second episode bonus sequence will be executed.

[0262] In this embodiment, if a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state, the game transitions to a special game state, and after the special game state ends, the game basically (approximately 97%) transitions to the second time-saving state (second specific state). The probability of winning a long opening in the second time-saving state is 1 / 99.902. If a regular symbol lottery is won in the second time-saving state and a long opening pattern for the regular mechanism 54 is obtained (if a long opening is won), the regular mechanism 54 opens for a long time. Then, based on the number of game balls entering the second start port 49 during the long opening, the second special symbol lottery is executed and the type of win is determined. In this embodiment, a win (specific result) is a general term for the minor win 1 (1G consecutive 10R win), minor win 2 (10R win), and minor win 3 (2R win) shown in Figure 8(b). There are three types of wins (specific results): a 2R win (first result), a 1G consecutive 10R win (second result), and a 10R win (third result). In this embodiment, it is assumed that there are first to third results for a win, but a win may consist of only the first and second results, and the third result may not be provided.

[0263] If the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second (last) game ball is a 2R win (first result), the game will transition to the second time-saving state after the execution (completion) of the (series of) special games. If the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second (last) game ball is a 10R win (third result), the game will transition to the second time-saving state after the execution (completion) of the (series of) special games. If the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second (last) game ball is a 1G consecutive 10R win (second result), the game will transition to the first time-saving state (first specific state) after the execution (completion) of the (series of) special games. The probability of winning a long opening in the first time-saving state is 1 / 1, and the probability of the regular feature 54 opening for a long time is higher in the first time-saving state than in the second time-saving state (higher means the probability is 100%). When transitioning to the first time-saving state, a long opening is won based on one regular symbol lottery, and a special game begins (transitioning to the special game state). Note that the number of special games performed is greater for 10R wins and 1G consecutive 10R wins than for 2R wins (Figure 8(b)), and the amount of game value (payout) that can be obtained is greater than for 2R wins.

[0264] (Control over the production) Here, using Figure 26, we will explain the control of the presentation when, in the time-saving state, two game balls enter the second starting opening 49 during one long opening, and a second special symbol lottery is performed based on each ball entry, a win is obtained in each lottery, and the result "the second win is a 10R win with 1G consecutive wins" is obtained multiple times (3 times) in a row.

[0265] (First special game state) For the first special game state, the win obtained from the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the first game ball is a 2R win, and the win obtained from the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second game ball is a 1G consecutive 10R win. The performance control means 300 starts a special bonus performance based on the fact that the type of win is "2R+10R". As shown in Figure 26, it executes the special game start performance (opening performance), and then displays the number of prize balls won S1 and the number of prize balls that can be won S2 (notification indicating the amount of game value that can be won). Since the type of win is "2R+10R", an episode bonus performance may be executed instead of a special bonus performance, but in this example, the special bonus performance will be executed. Based on the fact that the type of win is "2R+10R" (based on the fact that the number of prize balls that can be won is 1520), the performance control means 300 sets the number of prize balls that can be won S2 to "1500".

[0266] Since the second win is a 10R win with a 1G consecutive win, the next win is guaranteed. The next win (type of win) will be "2R+2R" even if it is the smallest payout, and the payout that can be obtained in the "2R+2R" special game is 320 balls. The performance control means 300 can perform an additional payout performance if the second win is a 10R win with a 1G consecutive win, which adds the minimum payout that can be obtained in the next win (300) to the payout that can be obtained in the current win (amount of game value). In this embodiment, an additional payout performance may be performed that adds (pre-announces) the minimum payout that can be obtained in the next win (the minimum amount to be obtained next time) in advance, before the payout to be obtained in the next win is determined (confirmed). This makes it possible to diversify the performance and broaden the range of gameplay.

[0267] The performance control means 300 determines, for example by lottery, whether or not to execute an additional performance (special performance) that adds the next minimum payout (300) to the payout amount display S2, based on the fact that "the second win is a 10R win in a 1G chain". If the performance control means 300 executes the additional performance (if it wins the additional lottery), it displays, for example, "+300" (addition display) as shown in Figure 26, and adds "300" to the payout amount display S2 (making the payout amount display S2 1800).

[0268] In this example, the number of available prize balls displayed S2 was first set to "1500," and then the bonus animation was performed to set the number of available prize balls displayed S2 to "1800" (divided into two stages). However, it is also possible to set the number of available prize balls displayed S2 to "1800" from the beginning (all at once).

[0269] The performance control means 300, based on the fact that "the second win is a 10R win in a 1G chain," does not end the special bonus performance even after the special game of a total of 12R has ended, and continues the special bonus performance. The performance control means 300 can also continue to execute the performance in the next win (special game state) related to the 1G chain.

[0270] (Second special game state) Next, regarding the second special game state related to the 1G consecutive win, the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the first game ball is a 10R win, and the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second game ball is a 10R win for the 1G consecutive win. The performance control means 300 continues the special bonus performance that is currently running, based on the fact that the continuation of the special bonus performance was decided at the time of the previous win (special game state). Also, based on the fact that the type of win has been determined to be "10R+10R" (based on the fact that the number of balls that can be obtained is 2720), the performance control means 300 executes an additional performance, displays "+2700" (additional display) as shown in Figure 26, and adds "2400" to the number of balls that can be obtained display S2. Based on the fact that the minimum number of balls that can be obtained this time, "300", was added to the number of balls that can be obtained display S2 at the time of the previous (1st) win, the performance control means 300 subtracts 300 from 2700 and adds 2400 to the number of balls that can be obtained display S2.

[0271] Furthermore, regarding the second special game state related to the 1G consecutive win, if the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the first game ball is a 2R win, and the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second game ball is also a 2R win, then, based on the fact that an additional win animation was performed in the previous (first) special game state in which the minimum payout "300" for this time was added to the number of available prize balls display S2, no additional win animation will be performed based on the determination of the type of win.

[0272] In this embodiment, if an additional bonus animation (pre-announcement) is performed based on the fact that "the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win," and the type of the next win is determined to be "2R+2R," the additional bonus animation is not performed. On the other hand, if an additional bonus animation (pre-announcement) is performed based on the fact that "the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win," and it is determined that the next win will include a 10R win or a 1G consecutive 10R win, an additional bonus animation (an animation that further increases the amount of game value that can be obtained during the announcement) is performed based on the determination of the type of the next win. In this example, an additional bonus animation related to the display of "+2700" is performed based on the fact that the win related to the second special game state includes a 10R win or a 1G consecutive 10R win.

[0273] Regarding the second special game state, based on the fact that "the second win is a 10R win with 1G consecutive wins," the performance control means 300 can execute an additional performance that adds to the next minimum payout (300), but in this example, this additional performance will not be executed.

[0274] The performance control means 300, based on the fact that "the second win is a 10R win in a 1G chain," does not end the special bonus performance even after the special game of a total of 20R has ended, and continues the special bonus performance. The performance control means 300 can also continue to execute the performance in the next win (special game state) related to the 1G chain.

[0275] (Third special game state) Next, regarding the third special game state related to the 1G consecutive win, the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the first game ball is considered a 10R win, and the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second game ball is considered a 10R win for the 1G consecutive win. The performance control means 300 continues the special bonus performance that is currently running, based on the fact that the continuation of the special bonus performance was decided at the time of the previous win (special game state). In addition, the performance control means 300 can perform an additional bonus performance that notifies "+2700" as at the time of the second win, based on the fact that the type of win has been determined to be "10R+10R", but it can also perform an additional bonus performance in the following other form. That is, based on the fact that the type of win is "10R+10R" and "the second win is a 1G consecutive 10R win", in other words, based on the fact that the number of balls that can be obtained this time is 2720 balls and the minimum number of balls that can be obtained next time is 320 balls, the performance control means 300 may perform an additional bonus performance that notifies "+3000", which is the minimum number of balls that can be obtained next time. When this bonus feature is executed, as shown in Figure 26, the display "+3000" (bonus display) is shown, and "3000" is added to the number of balls that can be won display S2. In addition, since the bonus feature that adds the minimum number of balls that can be won "300" was not executed during the previous (second) win, "3000" is added to the number of balls that can be won display S2 without subtracting "300".

[0276] The performance control means 300, based on the fact that "the second win is a 10R win in a 1G chain," does not end the special bonus performance even after the special game of a total of 20R has ended, and continues the special bonus performance. The performance control means 300 can also continue to execute the performance in the next win (special game state) related to the 1G chain.

[0277] (4th special game state) Next, regarding the fourth special game state related to the 1G consecutive win, the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the first game ball is considered a 2R win, and the win obtained in the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the second game ball is also considered a 2R win. The performance control means 300 continues the special bonus performance that is currently running based on the fact that the continuation of the special bonus performance was decided at the time of the previous win (special game state) (the normal bonus performance is not performed). Also, the performance control means 300 does not perform the additional performance based on the fact that the type of win was determined to be "2R+2R" based on the fact that an additional performance (pre-announcement) was performed at the time of the previous win (special game state) in which the minimum payout "300" for this time was added to the payout number display S2.

[0278] The performance control means 300 decides to end the special bonus performance based on the fact that the second win is not a 1G consecutive 10R win. The performance control means 300 ends the special bonus performance based on the completion of the special game for a total of 4R and executes the special game ending performance (ending performance).

[0279] Regarding the first to third special game states in Figure 26, even if the second win is a 10R win with a 1G consecutive bonus, if the special bonus animation ends based on the end of the last special game and a new special bonus animation starts in the next special game state, the player will not be given the impression that one special game state (bonus) lasted a long time. In this embodiment, as long as the condition that the second win is a 10R win with a 1G consecutive bonus is met, the special bonus animation continues to run. Therefore, the player can be given the impression that one special game state (bonus) lasted a long time. In other words, the player can be made to believe that they have won a large amount of payout in one special game state. This can give the player a sense of satisfaction and enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0280] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine comprising a gaming area (gaming area 4) on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the gaming area in response to the player's operation, A predetermined area (second starting port 49) provided in the aforementioned game area, A movable member (ordinary mechanism 54) capable of changing the ease with which the game ball enters the predetermined area, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means (performance control means 300) that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, It comprises a display means (liquid crystal display 32), The main control means is A special lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that conducts a lottery for the execution of a special game based on the entry of a game medium into the predetermined area, A special game control means (special game execution means 260) for controlling the execution of the aforementioned special game, A movable member control means (ordinary mechanism control means 224) controls the movable member to operate between a first state in which it is difficult for the game medium to enter the predetermined area and a second state in which it is easy for the game medium to enter the predetermined area. The game includes a game state transition control means (game state transition control means 250) that controls the transition of the game state between a plurality of game states, including a normal state in which the movable member is less likely to enter the second state and a specific state in which the movable member is more likely to enter the second state. The modes by which the movable member control means brings the movable member to the second state include a first mode in which the movable member is brought to the second state over a first period of time, and a second mode in which the movable member is brought to the second state over a second period of time that is longer than the first period. The aforementioned specific state includes a first specific state and a second specific state, each having a different probability of the movable member being in the second state in the second embodiment, wherein the probability of the first specific state is higher than that of the second specific state. In the first specific state or the second specific state, during the second period in which the movable member is in the second state in the second aspect, multiple game media can enter the predetermined area. The results of the aforementioned lottery include specific results related to the execution of the aforementioned special game, Each time a game medium enters the predetermined area during the second period, the lottery is performed, and if the specific result is obtained consecutively, the special game based on the previous specific result is performed, followed by the special game based on the next specific result. The aforementioned specific result includes at least a first result and a second result, wherein the second result is greater than the first result in terms of the amount of game value obtainable based on the execution of the special game. The main control means is If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the first result, then after the execution of the special game based on the first result, the system will transition to the second specific state. If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, then after the execution of the special game based on the second result, the system will transition to the first specific state. The aforementioned performance control means is Each time a game medium enters the predetermined area during the second period, the lottery is performed, and if the specific result is obtained consecutively, the special game performance can be executed in a manner corresponding to the combination of the specific results. If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, then the performance can be continued in the next special game that is executed when the multiple game media enter the predetermined area during the second period. If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, a special effect can be performed to announce the amount of game value that can be obtained in the next special game, which will be executed when the multiple game media enter the predetermined area during the second period, by adding this amount to the amount of game value that can be obtained in the current special game.

[0281] If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, then the performance (performance related to the special game) will continue to be performed in the next special game, which will be executed when the multiple game media enter the predetermined area during the second period. This allows the player to experience the performance for a longer period of time and gives the player the impression that the special game is continuing for a long time. This can give the player a sense of satisfaction and improve the enjoyment of the game. In addition, by continuing to perform the special performance, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling that there is a break between the current special game and the next special game, and allow the player to feel a sense of unity that a series of special games are being performed. This can improve the enjoyment of the game. Furthermore, if the result of the lottery related to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, a special effect may be performed to notify the player of the amount of game value that can be obtained in the next special game, which will be executed when the multiple game media enter the predetermined area during the second period, by adding this amount to the amount of game value that can be obtained in the current special game. When the special effect is performed, the player can understand that the result of the lottery related to the entry of the last of the multiple game media is the second result. In other words, the player can understand in advance that they will be given the opportunity to play the next special game. As a result, the player can be filled with joy. This can enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0282] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The aforementioned performance control means is Based on the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period being the second result, the special performance is executed, and if the second result is included in the results of the multiple lotteries obtained by executing the lottery each time a game media enters the predetermined area during the second period, a performance that further increases the amount of game value that can be obtained during the notification is possible.

[0283] If the aforementioned special effect is performed, and an effect that further increases the amount of game value that can be obtained is also performed, the player may realize that the second result was included in the results of the multiple lotteries. The player can be delighted because they can obtain a larger amount of game value than when the result consists only of the first result, and they may be given the opportunity to perform the next special game via the first specific state. This can enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0284] (modified version) In the embodiments described above, it was assumed that a win (minor win) was always achieved in the second special symbol lottery. However, the second special symbol lottery may include cases where a win is achieved and cases where a win is not achieved. The probability of not winning is assumed to be extremely low compared to the probability of winning (the probability of not winning is assumed to be very low). Furthermore, "cases where a win is not achieved" may include cases where a time-saving feature (time-saving symbol) is won without a win, and cases where neither a win nor a time-saving feature is won (i.e., a complete loss). While "winning" is a result related to the execution of the special game, the result of "not winning" can be said to be a result unrelated to the execution of the special game.

[0285] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various modified forms without departing from its essence. For example, various controls are not limited to those of the embodiments described above. Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, the present invention allows for free combination of the embodiments, modification of any component of each embodiment, or omission of any component in each embodiment. The present invention can also be applied to other gaming machines, such as managed pachinko machines, which are designed so that players can play without touching the game balls. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0286] 4. Gaming Area 32 Liquid crystal display (display means) 49 Second starting port (designated area) 54. Standard parts (movable components) 200 Main control board (main control means) 224 Standard mechanism control means (movable member control means) 230 Special Symbol Drawing Method (Special Drawing Method) 250 Game state transition control means 260 Special game execution means (special game control means) 300 Performance control means

Claims

1. A gaming machine comprising a game area on which a gaming medium moves, and which launches the gaming medium into the game area in response to the player's operation, A predetermined area provided in the aforementioned game area, A movable member capable of changing the ease with which the game ball enters the predetermined area, A main control means for controlling the progress of the game, A performance control means that performs performance control based on information transmitted from the main control means, A means of display, and comprising, The main control means is A special lottery means that conducts a lottery for the execution of a special game based on the entry of a game medium into the predetermined area, A special game control means for controlling the execution of the special game, A movable member control means that controls the movement of the movable member between a first state in which it is difficult to insert the game ball into the predetermined area and a second state in which it is easy to insert the game ball into the predetermined area. The game includes a game state transition control means that controls the transition of the game state between a plurality of game states, including a normal state in which the movable member is less likely to enter the second state and a specific state in which the movable member is more likely to enter the second state. The modes by which the movable member control means brings the movable member to the second state include a first mode in which the movable member is brought to the second state over a first period of time, and a second mode in which the movable member is brought to the second state over a second period of time that is longer than the first period. The aforementioned specific state includes a first specific state and a second specific state, each having a different probability of the movable member being in the second state in the second embodiment, wherein the probability of the first specific state is higher than that of the second specific state. In the first specific state or the second specific state, during the second period in which the movable member is in the second state in the second aspect, multiple game media can enter the predetermined area. The results of the aforementioned lottery include specific results related to the execution of the aforementioned special game, Each time a game medium enters the predetermined area during the second period, the lottery is performed, and if the specific result is obtained consecutively, the special game based on the previous specific result is performed, followed by the special game based on the next specific result. The aforementioned specific result includes at least a first result and a second result, wherein the second result is greater than the first result in terms of the amount of game value obtainable based on the execution of the special game. The main control means is If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the first result, then after the execution of the special game based on the first result, the system will transition to the second specific state. If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, then after the execution of the special game based on the second result, the system will transition to the first specific state. The aforementioned performance control means is Each time a game medium enters the predetermined area during the second period, the lottery is performed, and if the specific result is obtained consecutively, the special game performance can be executed in a manner corresponding to the combination of the specific results. If the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple game media entered during the second period is the second result, then the performance can be continued in the next special game that is executed when the multiple game media enter the predetermined area during the second period. A gaming machine capable of performing a special effect in which, if the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the multiple gaming media entered during the second period is the second result, the amount of game value that can be obtained in the next special game, which is executed when the multiple gaming media enter the predetermined area during the second period, is added to the amount of game value that can be obtained in the current special game and notified.

2. The aforementioned performance control means is The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the special performance is executed based on the result of the lottery relating to the entry of the last of the plurality of gaming media entered during the second period being the second result, and if the second result is included in the results of the plurality of lotteries obtained by executing the lottery each time a gaming media enters the predetermined area during the second period, a performance that further increases the amount of game value that can be obtained during notification is to be executed.

Images