Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of improving the amusement of a game.SOLUTION: When a normal symbol lottery is executed and a first normal winning symbol is determined in a first specific ball entry facilitating state, a movable member is displaced to facilitate the entry of a ball into a second start port. The game machine is controlled so that a normal game state is set when a special symbol lottery based on the entry of a ball into a second start port is performed, and when a normal symbol lottery is executed in a first specific easy-to-win state and a second normal winning symbol is determined, the movable member is displaced to facilitate the entry of the ball into the second start port. The game machine is controlled so that the first specific easy-to-win state is maintained at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entry into the second start port is performed, and the game state setting means can make the game state to be set after the execution of the special game different according to the game state set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entry into the second start port is performed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] As a gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine is known which includes a game area where game balls (game values) move, a launching device that launches game balls into the game area, and the like. The pachinko gaming machine includes a start opening provided in the game area, and when entry of a game ball into the start opening is detected, a special symbol lottery is performed. When the result of the special symbol lottery is a win, a plurality of special games are executed. In each special game, a big winning opening provided in the game area operates to an open state, and game balls are paid out based on entry of game balls into the big winning opening.

[0003] This type of gaming machine includes one in which a predetermined number of time-saving rounds is set at the end of a special game state based on a win obtained in the special symbol lottery, and the machine shifts to a predetermined time-saving state (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Incidentally, gaming machines are required to enhance the entertainment appeal of games.

[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 enhancing the entertainment appeal of a game.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0007] To achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises: 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 first start port (first start port 46) is located in a predetermined area within the game area, A second start port (second start port 49) is located in a region different from the predetermined region in the game area, A movable member (ordinary mechanism 54) that changes the ease with which the ball enters the second starting opening, An operating opening (passage gate 48 or operating prize opening) that triggers the execution of a normal pattern lottery, which involves displacing the aforementioned movable member to a state where balls can easily enter, In a special game that is performed when the result of a special symbol lottery, which is performed when a ball enters the first or second starting opening, is a predetermined result, there is a large prize opening (large prize opening 50) that makes it easy for the ball to enter, The system includes a game state setting means (game state control means 250) that can set game states including a ball-entry easy state in which the movable member is relatively easy to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, and a normal game state in which the movable member is relatively difficult to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, In the aforementioned regular winning pattern drawing, at least a first regular winning pattern and a second regular winning pattern are provided as regular winning patterns that can result in displacing the movable member to a state that facilitates ball entry. The ball entry easy state can be set after the special game is performed based on the predetermined result obtained in the special symbol lottery, and the ball entry easy state includes multiple types of ball entry easy states, including a first specific ball entry easy state. When the normal symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the first normal winning symbol is determined, the movable member is displaced to facilitate ball entry into the second start opening, and the normal game state is controlled to be set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening. When the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the second regular winning symbol is determined, the movable member is displaced to facilitate ball entry into the second start opening, and the first specific ball entry easy state is maintained when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening. The game state setting means can make the game state set after the execution of the special game different, depending on the game state set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening.

[0008] According to this configuration, the game state set after the execution of the special game differs depending on which game state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second starting gate. This diversifies the methods for transitioning between game states and provides new gameplay. This enhances 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 an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating its external configuration. [Figure 2] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 3] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. [Figure 4] This is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the general configuration of a gaming machine. [Figure 6] The same diagram explains the grand prize area, with (a) showing the state of passing through a specific area and (b) showing the state of passing through a non-specific area. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing the regular winning lottery table. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing a normal symbol lottery table. [Figure 9] This is a diagram showing a winning lottery table. [Figure 10] This is a diagram showing a symbol lottery table. [Figure 11] This is a diagram for explaining the display of performance symbols and reserved symbols. [Figure 12] This is a state transition diagram of the game state. [Figure 13] This is a diagram for explaining control for shifting the game state when a normal winning symbol is stopped and displayed in the time-saving state. [Figure 14] This is a state transition diagram of the game state of the gaming machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is a state transition diagram of a game state according to a modified example. [Figure 16] This is a state transition diagram of the game state of the gaming machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is a state transition diagram of the game state of the gaming machine according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is a state transition diagram of the game state of the gaming machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] This is a diagram for explaining control for shifting the game state when a normal winning symbol is stopped and displayed in the first time-saving state. [Figure 20] This is a diagram for explaining control for shifting the game state when a normal winning symbol is stopped and displayed in the second time-saving state. [Mode 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 a player is in front of the gaming machine, the player's side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "back". "Up and down" means that the top surface of the gaming machine is "up" and the bottom surface is "down". "Left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing the gaming machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right".

[0012] Unlike conventional pachinko machines, the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment allows players to play without touching the game balls. The gaming machine 1 is a sealed circulation type in which a certain number of game balls (game mediums) circulate within the machine. Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 uses game value as electronic information, and the game value is consumed or dispensed through gameplay. In the gaming machine 1, the dispensing of game value means electronically dispensing (granting) the game value. It should be noted that the invention according to this embodiment is not limited to the gaming machine 1 but can also be applied to conventional pachinko machines, that is, pachinko machines in which players can physically touch the game balls and the game balls are dispensed into a tray based on their entry into predetermined prize slots.

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

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

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

[0016] The front frame 10 is equipped with a performance button 26 (performance control means), and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance displayed on the game machine changes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0026] A first start port 46 (first area) is provided in the lower central area (predetermined area) of the stage 44, into which game balls (including game balls that have fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44) can enter. A first start port switch 100 (see Figure 5) is also provided inside the first start port 46 to detect game balls that have entered the first start port 46. When the first start port switch 100 detects a game ball (a game ball entering the first start port 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then executes a first special symbol lottery (first lottery) as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the first start port switch 100. The main control board 200 also dispenses prize balls (for example, 1 ball) based on the input of the detection signal from the first start port switch 100. Furthermore, any game balls that enter the first starting opening 46 are collected inside the game machine.

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

[0028] A passage gate 48 is provided in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, through which game balls pass without being collected inside the game machine. A gate switch 102 (see Figure 5) is also installed inside the passage gate 48 to detect when a game ball has passed through. When the gate switch 102 detects a game ball (passing through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then performs a regular symbol lottery to determine whether a regular win has occurred, based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102. In this embodiment, a drawing for ordinary symbols is performed based on the entry of a game ball into the passage gate 48. However, instead of the passage gate 48, or in addition to the passage gate 48, an activated prize entry point may be provided from which a predetermined number of prize balls are dispensed and a drawing for ordinary symbols is performed based on the entry of a game ball, and the drawing for ordinary symbols may be performed based on the entry of a game ball into the activated prize entry point. The passage gate 48 and / or the activated prize entry point may be referred to as the "activated entry point".

[0029] In the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, a second start port 49 (second area) is provided below the passage gate 48. The second start port 49 is located in a different area from the area (predetermined area) where the first start port 46 is provided. A second start port switch 103 (see Figure 5) is also provided inside the second start port 49 to detect game balls that have entered the second start port 49. When the second start port switch 103 detects a game ball (game balls 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 dispenses prize balls (for example, 1 ball) based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. Additionally, game balls that enter the second starting port 49 are collected inside the game machine.

[0030] The second starting opening 49 is provided with a standard mechanism 54 (first movable part, 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. The standard mechanism 54 can change the ease with which game balls can enter the second starting opening 49. The operating opening is the trigger for the execution of the regular symbol lottery, which determines whether or not to displace the standard mechanism 54 to the state in which it is easy for game balls to enter.

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

[0032] The large prize opening 50 is equipped with a special mechanism 56 (second movable part, special movable member) that can operate between a closed state in which game balls cannot enter the large prize opening 50 (inaccessible state) and an open state in which game balls can enter (inaccessible state). The special mechanism 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid and is controlled to be in an open state under predetermined conditions in the special game state which is started when a win is achieved in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery). The special mechanism 56 is also controlled to be in an 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. The large prize opening 50 is in a state where it is easy for game balls to enter when a special symbol lottery, which is performed when a game ball enters the first start opening 46 or the second start opening 49, is performed and the result of the special symbol lottery is a predetermined result (win).

[0033] As shown in Figure 6, the large prize opening 50 is provided with a specific area 51, a discharge area 52, and a distribution means 53 (wing member) that distributes game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to either the specific area 51 or the discharge area 52.

[0034] A specific area switch 107 is installed in the specific area 51. The specific area switch 107 (specific area sensor) outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 based on the detection of a game ball passing through the specific area 51 (the game ball passing through the specific area 51). A discharge area switch 108 is installed in the discharge area 52. The discharge area switch 108 (discharge area sensor) outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 based on the detection of game balls passing through the discharge area 52 (passage of game balls through the discharge area 52). The sorting means 53 can be switched between a specific area passage state (Figure 6(a)), in which game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are sorted into a specific area 51, and a non-specific area passage state (Figure 6(b)), in which game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are sorted into the discharge area 52. That is, when the sorting means 53 is switched to the specific area passage state, game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are sorted into the specific area 51. As a result, it becomes impossible for game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to pass through the discharge area 52.

[0035] On the other hand, when the sorting means 53 is displaced to a non-specific area passage state, game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are sorted to the discharge area 52. This makes it impossible for game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 to pass through the specific area 51. The sorting means 53 is displaced by the specific area solenoid. Game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are first detected by the count switch 104, and then sorted by the sorting means 53 to either the specific area 51 or the discharge area 52. After passing through the area, they are discharged into the discharge path. At this time, game balls sorted into the specific area 51 are detected by the specific area switch 107, and game balls sorted into the discharge area 52 are detected by the discharge area switch 108.

[0036] As shown in Figure 3, an outlet 62 is provided at the bottom of the game area 4 to collect game balls that fall out of the game area 4 without entering any of the prize winning holes 46, 47, 49, or 50 into the game machine. Inside the game machine, there is an outlet passage (not shown) through which the game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass. In this game machine, all game balls launched into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) are configured to pass through the outlet passage. That is, game balls launched into the game area 4 are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the outlet passage by entering any of the prize winning holes 46, 47, 49, or 50 or by passing through the outlet 62. Specifically, game balls that enter each prize winning hole 46, 47, 49, or 50 are detected by switches 100, 101, 103, and 104 located inside the prize winning holes, and then guided to the outlet passage. Furthermore, the game balls collected from the outlet 62 are guided to the discharge path. An out switch 106 (see Figure 5) is also installed in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects game balls passing through the discharge path (discharge of game balls from the game area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then counts the number of game balls discharged from the game area 4 based on the detection signal input from the out switch 106.

[0037] The game ball launching device is configured such that the launch output of the game balls changes by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in Figure 1. When the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game balls are launched so that they fall into the game area 4a (first game area 4a, left-handed area) on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game balls are launched so that they fall into the game area 4b (second game area 4b, right-handed area) on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32.

[0038] 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 large prize opening 50 (right-handed shot). Left-handed shot may be called the first game method, and right-handed shot may be called the second game method.

[0039] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when a game ball falls through the left-side game area 4a, the game ball does not pass through the passage gate 48, and therefore does not enter (win) the second starting opening 49 or the large prize opening 50. Also, when a game ball falls through the right-side game area 4b, the game ball does not enter the first starting opening 46 or the general prize opening 47.

[0040] As shown in Figure 4, 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.

[0041] Figure 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. The status display unit 70 is equipped with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal hold display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special hold display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 81, and a game status display unit 84.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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 12, multiple types of game states, including the normal state and the time-saving state, can be set. 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.

[0048] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board that includes a main control board 200 (main control means), a sub-control board 202 (sub-control means), and a frame control board 201. The functions of the main control board 200, sub-control board 202, and frame control board 201 are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, and software consisting of a given program pre-stored in ROM, etc.

[0049] The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the gate switch 102, the first start gate switch 100, the second start gate switch 103, the general prize gate switch 101, the count switch 104, the out switch 106, and the specific area switch 107, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the regular prize 54 and the special prize 56 based on the calculation results.

[0050] The sub-control board 202 receives signals from the main control board 200 and input signals from the performance button switch 150 that detects operations on the performance button 26, performs various calculations to execute performances in accordance with the progress of the game, and controls the operation of performance devices such as lamps 12, 38, speaker 14, and liquid crystal display 32 based on the calculation results.

[0051] The frame control board 201 receives signals from the main control board 200 and input signals from the counting buttons 212, and performs control related to the number of balls held (game balls), as well as control of the game value display device 211, etc. The frame control board 201 is capable of bidirectional communication with the main control board 200.

[0052] The main control board 200 is composed of a random number generation means 210, a normal symbol lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal bonus item control means 224, a special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means), a special display control means 240, a game state control means 250 (state control means), a special game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290, among others.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] Then, when the display of the variation and stop of the normal symbols is finished, the normal symbol lottery means 220 erases the random value for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal reserve memory area. If a random value for normal symbol lottery is reserved in normal reserve memory area 1, provided that control to open the normal mechanism 54 is not currently being executed, it reads the random value for normal symbol lottery from normal reserve memory area 1 to perform a normal symbol lottery, and stores the random value for normal symbol lottery used in the normal symbol lottery in the normal reserve memory area. If a random value for normal symbol lottery remains in normal reserve memory area 2 or later, the remaining random value for normal symbol lottery is moved from the original normal reserve memory area to a normal reserve memory area with an ordinal number one smaller. For example, if a random value for normal symbol lottery remains in normal reserve memory areas 2 to 3, it is moved to normal reserve memory areas 1 to 2.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] Figure 7 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 is set in the regular win lottery table 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.

[0062] 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. However, the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is a time-saving state may have a higher probability of winning a "normal win" compared to the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is not a time-saving state. In other words, the normal symbol lottery conducted when the game state is a time-saving state may have a higher probability of winning a "normal win" compared to the normal symbol lottery conducted when the game state is not a time-saving state.

[0063] In this embodiment, the system is configured so that a regular win occurs with a probability of 1 / 1 in the regular win lottery table. However, if the system is configured not to include "regular losses" as in this embodiment, a modified version of the regular win determination process may be implemented. This can consist of a simplified program that does not perform a determination process based on random numbers, but simply checks for the presence or absence of random numbers and returns the result as a "regular win."

[0064] The normal symbol determination process is performed when a normal win is achieved in the normal win determination process, and it is the process of determining which of several normal win symbols will be the normal win symbol (type of normal win). In this embodiment, the types are set as "normal win symbol 1", "normal win symbol 2", and "normal win symbol 3". In the normal symbol determination process, the probability of "normal win symbol 1" being determined (winning probability) is 8 / 1000, the probability of "normal win symbol 2" being determined (winning probability) is 2 / 1000, and the probability of "normal win symbol 3" being determined (winning probability) is 990 / 1000.

[0065] 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) and a long opening pattern (second opening pattern). The short opening pattern 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 that the normal mechanism 54 is in the open (expanded) 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 0.016 [s]. The long opening pattern is an opening pattern that makes it easier for game balls to enter the second starting opening 49. Compared to the short opening pattern, the long opening pattern has a longer time during which the normal mechanism 54 is in the open (expanded) state. In the long 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 6 [s]. Note that one opening in the long opening pattern has a total opening time of approximately 6 [s] for the normal mechanism 54, and it may operate as follows: open state (3 [s]) → closed state (1 [s]) → open state (3 [s]). That is, after opening, it may close once and then open again. When the long opening pattern is selected as the opening pattern for the normal mechanism 54, if the game is played by shooting to the right, it is almost certain that game balls will enter the second starting opening 49.

[0066] 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 is in the normal state, the normal symbol lottery table 1 shown in Figure 8(a) is selected. In this case, regardless of whether "Normal Winning Symbol 1" to "Normal Winning Symbol 3" is determined in 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. In other words, when a normal win is achieved in the normal symbol lottery in the normal state, the probability of the long opening pattern being set is 0. When the game state is the first time-saving state, the regular symbol lottery table 2 shown in Figure 8(b) is selected. In this case, if "regular winning symbol 1" is determined in the regular symbol determination process, the long opening pattern is selected; if "regular winning symbol 2" is determined, the long opening pattern is selected; and if "regular winning symbol 3" is determined, the short opening pattern is selected. 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 probability of 1 / 100. When the game state is the second time-saving state, the regular symbol lottery table 3 shown in Figure 8(c) is selected. In this case, regardless of whether "regular winning symbol 1" to "regular winning 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 second time-saving state, the long opening pattern is set with a 1 / 1 probability.

[0067] In this embodiment, in the drawing of ordinary symbols, at least ordinary winning symbols 1 (first ordinary winning symbol) and ordinary winning symbols 2 (second ordinary winning symbol) are provided as ordinary winning symbols that can result in displacing the ordinary prize 54 to a state where it is easy for the ball to enter.

[0068] 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 balls to enter the second starting opening 49 than in the normal state, making it a more advantageous state for the player than the normal state. In addition, the probability of selecting the long opening pattern when a regular win is achieved in the regular symbol lottery differs between the first and second time-saving states. The probability of this is higher in the second time-saving state than in the first time-saving state, making it a more advantageous state for the player.

[0069] 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. In other words, when the game state at the time the normal symbol lottery is performed is not a time-saving state, the variation time of the normal symbols is set to the first hour (for example, 20 seconds), and when the game state at the time the normal symbol lottery is performed is a time-saving state, the variation time of the normal symbols is set to the second hour (for example, 1 second), which is shorter than the first hour. Therefore, when the game state is a time-saving state, the trigger for performing the normal symbol lottery occurs more frequently. 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 second time-saving state may be set to be the shortest.

[0070] The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing.

[0071] 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 won.

[0072] 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.

[0073] The ordinary feature control means 224 (movable member control means) is a means for controlling the ordinary feature 54 based on the lottery result of the ordinary symbol lottery. When the ordinary symbol stops and is displayed in a manner indicating a winning ordinary prize, the ordinary feature control means 224 controls the drive of the ordinary feature drive device so that the ordinary feature 54 opens (opens and closes) in a determined opening pattern (opening mode / opening and closing mode). The normal mechanism control means 224 can, when the game state is not the time-saving state, control the normal mechanism 54 so that when the normal symbols stop and display in a manner indicating a "normal win", the normal mechanism 54 expands until a time A (for example, 0.016 seconds) has elapsed, and then returns to its reduced state. Furthermore, when the game state is the time-saving state, the normal mechanism control means 224 can, when the normal symbols stop and display in a manner indicating a "normal win", control the normal mechanism 54 so that when a time B (for example, 6 seconds) longer than time A has elapsed, the normal mechanism 54 expands until a time B (for example, 6 seconds) has elapsed, and then returns to its reduced state.

[0074] In the regular symbol lottery, if a "regular win" occurs, the regular mechanism 54 operates in such a way that the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 does not increase significantly if the game state is not in a time-saving state. However, if the game state is in a time-saving state, the regular mechanism 54 operates in such a way that the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 increases. In this embodiment, in the time-saving state, the regular mechanism 54 is controlled to operate in such a way that it is easier for the game ball to enter the second start opening 49 than in the normal state. Therefore, the time-saving state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

[0075] The special symbol lottery means 230 (special lottery means) obtains a random value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on a detection signal input from the first start-up switch 100, which detects each game ball entering the first start-up 46, and stores it as the first special random value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. The special symbol lottery means 230 also obtains a random value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on a detection signal input from the second start-up switch 103, which detects each game ball entering the second start-up 49, and stores it as the second special random value in the special random number storage means 2914. The special symbol lottery means 230 uses the first or second special random value read from the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] The special random number storage means 2914 is provided with a second special random number storage area as a storage area for storing the acquired second special random number value.

[0080] When the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the second start switch 103 and obtains a random value for the special symbol lottery, if the second special symbol is not in a fluctuating display or stopped display, that is, the second special random value is not stored in the second special random number storage area, the game state is not a special game state, and a minor win game is not being executed, it immediately performs a special symbol lottery and stores the second special random value in the second special random number storage area.

[0081] When the variation and stop display of the first special symbol is finished, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the first special random value stored in the first special reserve memory area. If the first special random value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, and provided that the game state is not a special game state and a minor win game is not in progress, the special symbol lottery means 230 reads the first special random value from the first special reserve memory area 1 and performs a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random value obtained from the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area. Furthermore, when the variation and stop display of the second special symbol is finished, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the second special random value stored in the second special random number memory area. In this embodiment, the second special random value is processed with priority over the first special random value. In this embodiment, since there is no second special reserve storage area for storing the second special random value (the second special random value is not reserved), the display of the second special symbol variation based on the second special random value can only be performed when the display of variation based on the first special random value and the second special random value is not being performed. Therefore, although the second special random value takes priority in processing, there is no actual priority relationship. As a modification, the system may be configured so that the display of the second special symbol variation starts while the display of the first special symbol variation is being performed, or the display of the first special symbol variation starts while the display of the second special symbol variation is being performed. Furthermore, regardless of whether it is the first or second special random value, the system may be configured to read the first or second special random value in the order in which it was stored in the special random number storage means 2914 and perform a special symbol lottery. That is, the system may be configured to process the first or second special random value in the order in which the game balls entered the first start opening 46 or the second start opening 49.

[0082] 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 the first special reserved memory area 2 and beyond, the remaining first special random values ​​are moved to a special reserved memory area with an ordinal number one smaller than the original special reserved memory area. 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 through 4, the first special random values ​​stored in each of the first special reserved memory areas 2 through 4 are moved to each of the first special reserved memory areas 1 through 3.

[0083] In the special random number storage means 2914, the first special random number values ​​for which no special symbol lottery has been conducted are stored in the first special reserve storage area 1 to the first special reserve storage area 4, up to a maximum of 4 values.

[0084] Furthermore, the special random number storage means 2914 does not store a new second special random number when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are being displayed in a variable or stopped state, or when the game state is a special game state or when a minor win game is being played. In other words, in the game machine of this embodiment, the random number value (second special random number value) based on the entry of a game ball into the second start port 49 (in other words, the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103) is not retained.

[0085] 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, such as a winning determination random number and a symbol determination random number, as random numbers for the special symbol lottery, 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 the winning determination process, the symbol determination process, etc., as part of the special symbol lottery.

[0086] The win determination process involves reading one win determination random number from the first special random number or second special random number stored in the special random number storage means 2914 to determine whether it is a big win (or a small win). Here, one win determination random number is obtained from 65,536 win 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 the second special random number.

[0087] In the winning determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple types of winning 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 single winning determination random number read out was stored as the first special random number or the second special random number.

[0088] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores the winning lottery table A shown in Figure 9(a) and the winning lottery table B shown in Figure 9(b). In each winning lottery table, a minor win (or major win), etc., is associated with each of the 65,536 random winning values ​​ranging from 0 to 65,535.

[0089] The winning lottery table A is selected when determining a win for the first special random value, and the correspondence between each judgment result and the winning determination random value is set so that a "win" is won with a predetermined probability (X / 65536) (for example, 1 / 219) and a "loss" is won with a predetermined probability ((65536-X) / 65536) (for example, 218 / 219). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the winning lottery table A and determines whether the winning determination random value read from the first reserve memory area 1 is associated with a "win" or a "loss," thereby determining whether a "win" or a "loss" has been won. In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "win" or a "loss" in the first special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state.

[0090] The winning lottery table B is selected when determining a win for the second special random value, and the correspondence between each judgment result and the winning determination random value is set so that a "win" is achieved with a predetermined probability (65536 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the winning lottery table B and determines whether or not the second special random value (winning determination random value) is associated with a "win," thereby determining whether or not a "win" has been achieved. In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "win" in the second special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state.

[0091] The symbol determination process is performed when a "win" is selected in the win determination process. The symbol determination process reads one symbol determination random number from the first special random number or second special random number stored in the special random number storage means 2914, and if a "win" is selected, it determines which of the multiple winning symbols will be the winning symbol (type of 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 the second special random number.

[0092] 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.

[0093] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores the pattern lottery table A shown in Figure 10(a) and the pattern lottery table B shown in Figure 10(b). In each pattern lottery table, a predetermined pattern is associated with each of the random numbers used to determine the pattern.

[0094] The symbol lottery table A shown in Figure 10(a) is selected when a "win" is achieved and the read symbol determination random number is stored as the first special random number. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number is set so that "winning symbol 1" is won with a predetermined probability and "winning symbol 2" is won with a predetermined probability. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table A and determines which of the multiple types of winning symbols is associated with the read symbol determination random number, thereby determining which of the multiple types of winning symbols has been won.

[0095] The symbol lottery table B shown in Figure 10(b) is selected when a "win" is achieved and the read symbol determination random number is stored as the second special random number. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number is set so that "winning symbol 3" is won with a predetermined probability and "winning symbol 4" is won with a predetermined probability. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table B and determines which of the multiple types of winning symbols is associated with the read symbol determination random number, thereby determining which of the multiple types of winning symbols has been won.

[0096] The special game execution means 260 (special game control means) is a means for executing a special game (jackpot game) based on the result of the special symbol lottery, and performs the execution process of the special game. The special game execution means 260 is also a means for executing a minor win game based on the fact that a "minor win" has been won in the special symbol lottery, and performs the execution process of the minor win game.

[0097] The minor win game state is initiated when a "minor win" is achieved in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or 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 special mechanism 56 opens to allow game balls to enter the large prize opening 50, and the distribution means 53 is displaced from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state. The minor win game then ends when a predetermined opening time (for example, 1.8 seconds) has elapsed since the special mechanism 56 was opened, or when the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 during the execution of the minor win game has reached a predetermined upper limit (for example, 10 balls).

[0098] In a minor win game, the distribution means 53 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 large prize opening 50 during the execution of the minor win game to pass through the specific area 51. If "Winning Symbol 1", "Winning Symbol 2", "Winning Symbol 3", or "Winning Symbol 4" is won, the distribution means 53 is displaced from a non-specific area passage state to a specific area passage state in such a manner that it is easy (possible) for game balls that enter the large prize opening 50 during the execution of the minor win game to pass through the specific area 51. As a result, if "Winning Symbol 1", "Winning Symbol 2", "Winning Symbol 3", or "Winning Symbol 4" is won, it is easy (possible) for game balls to pass through the specific area 51 during the minor win game state.

[0099] If the passage of a game ball through a specific area 51 is detected during a minor win game (if the passage of a game ball that entered the large prize slot 50 is detected during the execution of a minor win game), a special game state (special game) is started based on the end of the minor win game state. On the other hand, if the passage of a game ball through a specific area 51 is not detected during a minor win game (if the passage of a game ball that entered the large prize slot 50 is not detected during the execution of a minor win game), the special game state is not started.

[0100] If you win either "Winning Symbol 1" or "Winning Symbol 2" in the first special symbol lottery, or if you win either "Winning Symbol 3" or "Winning Symbol 4" in the second special symbol lottery, and if the game ball is detected passing through a specific area 51 during the minor win game state, the number of special games (round games) is set to 9. As a result, 10 rounds are executed, with the minor win game being the first round game. The 9 round games excluding the minor win game are terminated based on whether a predetermined open time (for example, 29 seconds) has elapsed since the special mechanism 56 was opened, or whether the number of game balls entering the large prize opening 50 during the execution of the round game has reached a predetermined upper limit (for example, 10 balls). The special game state then ends, provided that 10 rounds of special games have been executed. Additionally, a predetermined number of time-saving rounds is set at the end of the special game state, and the time-saving state begins. Furthermore, if the passage of a game ball through a specific area 51 is not detected during a minor win game (i.e., if the passage of a game ball that entered the big prize slot 50 during the execution of a minor win game is not detected), the special game state will not start, and the normal state will begin.

[0101] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, in the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery, it is possible to win a "minor win" but not a "big win." However, it is also possible to set it so that it is possible to win a "big win" in the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery. That is, in this embodiment, "winning symbol 1," "winning symbol 2," "winning symbol 3," and "winning symbol 4" are symbols that correspond to minor wins, but it is not limited to these and may be symbols that correspond to big wins. In other words, random values ​​associated with "big wins" may be set in the winning lottery table A. Furthermore, if random values ​​associated with "big wins" are set in the winning lottery table A, it is preferable that random values ​​associated with "big wins" are also set in the winning lottery table B. Specifically, it is preferable that the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery are set so that it is possible to win a "big win" with the same probability. For example, "Winning Symbol 1" and "Winning Symbol 2" in Symbol Draw Table A may be symbols corresponding to a jackpot, and random values ​​corresponding to "jackpot" may be set in Winning Draw Table B, and "Winning Symbol 5" and "Winning Symbol 6" may be set in Symbol Draw Table B as symbols corresponding to a jackpot ("Winning Symbol 3" and "Winning Symbol 4" correspond to a minor win). In other words, if a "jackpot" ("Winning Symbol 1" or "Winning Symbol 2") is won in the first special symbol draw, or if a "jackpot" ("Winning Symbol 5" or "Winning Symbol 6") is won in the second special symbol draw, the special game state may start without going through the minor win game state, and the special game state may end on the condition that 10 rounds of special game from the 1st to the 10th round have been executed. If you are likely to win a "jackpot" in the special symbol lottery (either the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery), the special game state will start based on the fact that you have won a "jackpot" in the special symbol lottery, and will end when a special game (jackpot game) of a predetermined number of rounds (10 rounds) according to the type of winning symbol (jackpot symbol) is executed. If you win a "jackpot" in the special symbol lottery, a predetermined number of time-saving rounds will be set at the end of the special game state, and the time-saving state will start.

[0102] In this embodiment, "special game" may refer to both big win games and small win games as a whole. Furthermore, "special game" is not limited to referring to a single round game, but may also refer to the entire round game (for example, a 10-round special game: the special game state).

[0103] Based on the start of a special game (including a minor win game) in each round (based on the fulfillment of the opening condition), the special feature 56 enters an open state. Once the special feature 56 is in an open state, it enters a closed state based on the fulfillment of one of several closing conditions. One of the closing conditions is that the opening timer in the main memory 290 counts a predetermined time (1.8 seconds to 29 seconds) (reaches the predetermined time). Another closing condition is that when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, the value of the big win counter 2920 in the main memory 290, which adds a value equivalent to one game ball (for example, 1), reaches a predetermined value (for example, 10). When the closing condition is fulfilled (when the end condition of the special game is fulfilled), the drive control of the special feature drive device is performed so that the special feature 56 enters a closed state. Furthermore, while the game is designed to end when the opening time reaches 1.8 seconds during a minor win, it doesn't actually open continuously for 1.8 seconds. Instead, it repeatedly performs short openings of 0.15 seconds and short closings of 0.8 seconds, totaling 12 short openings to measure the total opening time of 1.8 seconds.

[0104] In this embodiment of the gaming machine, the maximum number of game balls that can enter the large prize pocket 50 in one round is 10, and the number of prize balls awarded for each ball entered is 15. Therefore, a player can win 150 prize balls in one round. Consequently, if the player wins "Winning Symbol 1", "Winning Symbol 2", "Winning Symbol 3", or "Winning Symbol 4", they can win 1500 prize balls.

[0105] The special display control means 240 performs a first special symbol display control process, a second special symbol display control process, and a first special hold display control process based on the results of the special symbol lottery.

[0106] The first special symbol display control process is performed when a special symbol lottery is conducted based on the first special random value. The special display control means 240 displays the first special symbol in a variable state by flashing 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. The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process for the special symbol lottery, and the special display control means 240 displays the first special symbol in a variation by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 until a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then displays the first special symbol in a stopped state by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

[0107] In this embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is predetermined to correspond to each winning symbol. The special display control means 240 lights up the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a manner that corresponds to whether or not a "win" has been determined in the win determination process, and in a manner that corresponds to the winning symbol (minor win symbol or major win symbol) determined in the symbol determination process if a "win" has been determined in the win 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.

[0108] The second special symbol display control process is performed when a special symbol lottery is conducted based on a second special random value. The special display control means 240 displays the second special symbol in a variable state by flashing 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 stopped state by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a predetermined manner. The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process for the special symbol lottery, and the special display control means 240 displays the second special symbol in a variation by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 until a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then displays the second special symbol in a stopped state by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a predetermined manner.

[0109] The special display control means 240 lights up the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a manner that corresponds to whether or not a "win" has been determined in the win determination process, and in a manner that corresponds to the winning symbol (minor win symbol or major win symbol) determined in the symbol determination process if a "win" has been determined in the win 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] In this embodiment, a special game state is initiated (including via a minor win game state) in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the large prize slot 50 based on winning a "win" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery). For example, if a "minor win" is won in the special symbol lottery, a minor win game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the large prize slot 50. When it is detected that a game ball that has entered the large prize slot 50 has passed through a specific area 51 in the minor win game state, a special game state is initiated in which it becomes possible (easy) to enter the large prize slot 50. By getting game balls into the large prize slot 50, the player can win many prize balls.

[0112] In this embodiment, obtaining the opportunity to draw the second special symbol results in a higher probability of transitioning to a special game state than obtaining the opportunity to draw the first special symbol. As described above, in order to obtain the opportunity to draw the second special symbol, it is necessary to win a "regular win" in the regular symbol draw and to enter (win) a game ball into the second start opening 49 when the regular mechanism 54 (regular electric mechanism) is in the open state. The ease with which a game ball enters the second start opening 49 (ease of entering the ball) varies depending on the game state.

[0113] Return to Figure 5. The payout control means 270 controls the payout (electronically) of a number of game balls corresponding to a predetermined number of prize balls for each detection signal, based on the detection signals received from the first start switch 100, the second start switch 103, the general prize slot switch 101, and the count switch 104.

[0114] The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated according to the various calculation results of the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 and the frame control board 201. In this embodiment, only unidirectional communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible between the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202, and the communication connection is configured such that the sub-control board 202 cannot transmit information to the main control board 200.

[0115] The sub-control board 202 is configured to include a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 302.

[0116] 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 lighting or blinking the lamps 12 and 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] The performance control means 300 can perform a performance in which a performance symbol (demo symbol) is displayed 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, it can display a performance symbol on the liquid crystal display 32 that corresponds to the fluctuation and stop display of the normal symbol.

[0119] Here, we will explain the display of the performance symbols in the normal state. Figure 11(a) shows the state before the first special symbol begins to change display. 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.

[0120] As shown in Figure 11(b), the display of the special symbols changes (display 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).

[0121] As shown in Figure 11(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 "win" is achieved in the first special symbol lottery, the performance symbols are displayed in a manner corresponding to the winning symbol determined in the symbol determination process. Although not shown in the illustration, even in the time-saving state, the performance symbols are displayed in a varied or stopped state in accordance with the varied and stopped displays of the normal symbols, just as in the normal state (as shown in Figures 11(a), 11(b), and 11(c)).

[0122] The performance control means 300 can execute a performance (reserve performance) that displays an image representing the first special reserve number on the liquid crystal display 32, based on the first special reserve number (the first special random number value stored (reserved) in the special random number storage means 2914) in the main control board 200. The performance control means 300 can also execute a performance (reserve performance) that displays an image representing the normal reserve number on the liquid crystal display 32, based on the normal reserve number (the normal random number storage means 2912 stored (reserved)) in the main control board 200. In the reserve performance, four reserve display areas (display areas), the first reserve display area 411 to the fourth reserve display area 414, which correspond to the first special reserve storage area 1 to the first special reserve storage area 4 (or normal reserve storage area 1 to normal reserve storage area 4) of the special random number storage means 2914 (or normal random number storage means 2912), are displayed at the bottom of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32.

[0123] Figure 11(a) shows the hold animation performed under normal conditions, where the first special random value is stored in the first special hold memory area 1 to the first special hold memory area 3, and the first hold image 420 (three first hold images 420) is displayed in the first hold display area 411 to the third hold display area 413.

[0124] In the hold animation, one hold display area 430 is displayed in the area to the left of the first hold display area 411 at the bottom of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, corresponding to the special hold storage area (or the ordinary hold storage area) of the special random number storage means 2914 (or ordinary random number storage means 2912). In the state shown in Figure 11(a), when the first special random value is read from the first special hold storage area 1 and stored in the special hold storage area, the first hold image 420 is displayed in the hold display area 430, as shown in Figure 11(b).

[0125] Figure 11(d) shows the hold animation performed in a time-saving state, where random values ​​for normal symbol lottery are stored in the normal hold memory area 1 and the normal hold memory area 2, and the second hold image 422 is displayed in the first hold display area 411 and the second hold display area 412.

[0126] (Transition of game state) The game state control means 250 (game state setting means), as shown in Figure 12, performs game state transition control processing to transition the game state between multiple types of game states based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions (transition conditions). The multiple types of game states include the normal state, the time-saving state, and the special game state.

[0127] (Normal state) The normal state (normal game state, non-time-saving state, low probability state) is the initial state among several types of game states. As mentioned above, in the normal state, even if a "normal win" is achieved in the normal symbol lottery, the normal mechanism 54 operates in such a way that the ease with which the game ball enters the second start opening 49 hardly increases. In other words, in the normal state, the probability of the long opening pattern being set when a normal win is achieved in the normal symbol lottery is 0. In the normal state, the normal mechanism 54 is less likely to become relatively easy to enter based on the execution of the normal symbol lottery. In the normal state, it is difficult (impossible) to get the game ball into the second start opening 49. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) to obtain an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery. For this reason, in the normal state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot left to get the game ball into the first start opening 46 in order to obtain an opportunity for the first special symbol lottery than to shoot right. In other words, the normal state is a game state where you should be hitting the ball with your left hand.

[0128] (Time-saving state) As described above, in the time-saving state (first time-saving state and second time-saving state), when a "regular win" is achieved in the regular symbol lottery, the regular mechanism 54 operates in such a way that it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the second start opening 49. The time-saving state can be described as an easy ball entry state, where the regular mechanism 54 is more likely to be in an open state (a state in which it is easy for the ball to enter the second start opening 49 as an entry point). In the time-saving state (easy ball entry state), the regular mechanism 54 is more likely to be in a relatively easy ball entry state based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery. The normal state can be described as a state in which the regular mechanism 54 is less likely to be in an open state (difficult ball entry state). In the shortened time state, it is easier to get the game ball into the second start gate 49 (to win a prize) compared to the normal state. In other words, it is easier to obtain an opportunity to draw the second special symbol. In the shortened time state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot to the right so that the game ball passes through the gate 48 in order to obtain an opportunity to draw the second special symbol than to shoot to the left. In other words, the shortened time state is a game state in which shooting to the right is recommended. In this embodiment, the second special symbol draw based on the entry of the game ball into the second start gate 49 has a higher probability of determining a transition to the special game state than the first special symbol draw. In other words, the probability of determining a transition to the special game state is higher in the shortened time state than in the normal state. In this embodiment, the shortened time state, in which it is easier to get the game ball into the second start gate 49 than in the normal state, may be referred to as the high base state, and the normal state may be referred to as the low base state.

[0129] (First shortened time state) In the first time-saving state (first specific ball entry easy state), when a normal win is achieved in the normal symbol lottery, the long opening pattern is selected for the normal mechanism 54 with a probability of 1 / 100. Therefore, it is easier to get the game balls into the second start opening 49 compared to the normal state. In the first time-saving state, when a normal win is achieved in the normal symbol lottery, there is a 1 / 100 chance of winning the second special symbol lottery. In the first time-saving state, the probability of winning the long opening pattern in the normal symbol lottery (1 / 100) is effectively the probability of winning the second special symbol lottery and transitioning to the special game state. In the first 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 the chance of winning the normal 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.

[0130] (Second shortened hours) In the second time-saving state (second specific ball entry easy state), if a normal win is achieved in the normal symbol lottery, the long opening pattern is selected for the normal mechanism 54 with a probability of 1 / 1. In the second time-saving state, the probability of the long opening pattern being determined in the normal symbol lottery is higher than in the first time-saving state, and a higher probability includes a probability of 100%. For this reason, it is easier to get the game balls into the second start opening 49 compared to the normal state. In the second time-saving state, if a normal win is achieved in the normal symbol lottery, there is a probability of 1 / 1 to obtain an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery. Since the probability of winning a normal win in the normal symbol lottery is 1 / 1, and the probability of winning a win in the second special symbol lottery is 1 / 1 (65536 / 65536), when transitioning to the second time-saving state, it is almost certain that a transition to the special game state is possible based on one normal symbol lottery (1G consecutive win). In the second 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. The second time-saving state can be described as a game state in which the second special symbol lottery is executed based on ball entry into the second start gate 49, a predetermined result (win) is obtained, and the execution of the special game is effectively confirmed (a time-saving state in which the execution of the special game is confirmed). In the second time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot to the right than to shoot to the left, so that the game ball passes 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 you should shoot to the right.

[0131] (Conditions for ending the first time-saving state) In the gaming machine of this embodiment, a plurality of termination conditions are set as termination conditions for the first time-saving state, including the 1A termination condition, 1B termination condition, 1C termination condition, 1D termination condition, 1E termination condition, and 1F termination condition. The gaming state control means 250 terminates the first time-saving state and transitions the gaming state to the normal state based on the fulfillment of one of the termination conditions for the first time-saving state (for example, one of the plurality of termination conditions).

[0132] The main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is provided with: a regular symbol 1 operation start counter 2931 that counts the number of times the regular bonus item 54 starts operating based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 1; a regular symbol 2 operation start counter 2932 that counts the number of times the regular bonus item 54 starts operating based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 2; a regular symbol 3 operation start counter 2933 that counts the number of times the regular bonus item 54 starts operating based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 3; a regular symbol 1 operation end counter 2936 that counts the number of times the regular bonus item 54 ends operating based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 1; a regular symbol 2 operation end counter 2937 that counts the number of times the regular bonus item 54 ends operating based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 2; and a regular symbol 3 operation end counter 2938 that counts the number of times the regular bonus item 54 ends operating based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 3. In the following, the system is configured to determine whether the time-saving state has ended by comparing the results of incrementing various counters with a judgment value. However, the time-saving state may also be determined by whether the result of decrementing the initial values ​​set for each counter reaches a threshold (for example, "0").

[0133] In the first time-saving state, the game state control means 250 adds (or subtracts) "1" to the regular symbol 1 operation start counter 2931 each time the regular mechanism 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 1. In the first time-saving state, the game state control means 250 adds (or subtracts) "1" to the regular symbol 2 operation start counter 2932 each time the regular mechanism 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 2. In the first time-saving state, the game state control means 250 adds (or subtracts) "1" to the regular symbol 3 operation start counter 2933 each time the regular mechanism 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 3.

[0134] In the first time-saving state, the game state control means 250 adds (or subtracts) "1" to the value of the regular symbol 1 operation completion counter 2936 each time the operation of the regular mechanism 54 based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 1 is completed. In the first time-saving state, the game state control means 250 adds (or subtracts) "1" to the value of the regular symbol 2 operation completion counter 2937 each time the operation of the regular mechanism 54 based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 2 is completed. In the first time-saving state, the game state control means 250 adds (or subtracts) "1" to the value of the regular symbol 3 operation completion counter 2938 each time the operation of the regular mechanism 54 based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 3 is completed.

[0135] The 1A termination condition is based on the number of times the normal bonus feature 54 has been activated. On the other hand, the 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E termination conditions are based on the number of times the normal bonus feature 54 has been activated.

[0136] (Conditions for ending 1A) In this embodiment, in the first time-saving state, the 1A termination condition is met when the number of times the normal bonus feature 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 1 reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the first time-saving state) (1A time-saving count). Specifically, when the game state control means 250 transitions to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, it sets the 1A time-saving count to "1". The game state control means 250 adds 1 to the value of the regular symbol 1 operation start counter 2931 each time the regular bonus feature 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 1. When the value of the regular symbol 1 operation start counter 2931 reaches "1", the game state control means 250 determines that the 1A termination condition has been met, terminates the 1st time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0137] (Conditions for ending 1B) In this embodiment, in the first time-saving state, the 1B termination condition is met when the sum of the number of times the normal mechanism 54 has completed operation based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 1 and the number of times the normal mechanism 54 has completed operation based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 2 reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the first time-saving state) (1B time-saving count). Specifically, when the game state control means 250 transitions to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, it sets the 1B time-saving count to "1". The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the regular symbol 1 operation completion counter 2936 each time the operation of the regular feature 54 based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 1 is completed, and adds "1" to the regular symbol 2 operation completion counter 2937 each time the operation of the regular feature 54 based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 2 is completed. When the sum of the values ​​of the regular symbol 1 operation completion counter 2936 and the regular symbol 2 operation completion counter 2937 reaches "1", it is determined that the 1B termination condition has been met, the 1st time-saving state is terminated, and the game returns to the normal state.

[0138] (Conditions for ending the first C) In this embodiment, in the first time-saving state, the 1C termination condition is met when the number of times the normal mechanism 54, based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 1, has completed operation reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the first time-saving state) (1C time-saving count). Specifically, when the game state control means 250 transitions to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, it sets the 1C time-saving count to "130". The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the normal mechanism 1 operation completion counter 2936 each time the operation of the normal mechanism 54, based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 1, is completed. When the value of the normal mechanism 1 operation completion counter 2936 reaches "130", the game state control means 250 determines that the 1C termination condition has been met, terminates the first time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0139] (Conditions for ending the first stage) In this embodiment, in the first time-saving state, the 1D termination condition is met when the number of times the normal mechanism 54, based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 2, has completed operation reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the first time-saving state) (1D time-saving count). Specifically, when the game state control means 250 transitions to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, it sets the 1D time-saving count to "130". The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the normal mechanism 2 operation completion counter 2937 each time the operation of the normal mechanism 54, based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 2, is completed. When the value of the normal mechanism 2 operation completion counter 2937 reaches "130", the game state control means 250 determines that the 1D termination condition has been met, terminates the first time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0140] (Conditions for ending the first edition) In this embodiment, in the first time-saving state, the 1E termination condition is met when the number of times the normal mechanism 54, based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 3, has completed operation reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the first time-saving state) (1E time-saving count). Specifically, when the game state control means 250 transitions to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, it sets the 1E time-saving count to "130". The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the normal mechanism 3 operation completion counter 2938 each time the operation of the normal mechanism 54, based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 3, is completed. When the value of the normal mechanism 3 operation completion counter 2938 reaches "130", the game state control means 250 determines that the 1E termination condition has been met, terminates the first time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0141] (Conditions for completing the first floor) The 1F termination condition is based on the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state. In this embodiment, the 1F termination condition is met when the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state during the 1st time-saving state reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the 1st time-saving state) (1F time-saving count). Here, "the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state during the 1st time-saving state" is the sum of the number of times the 1st special symbols and the 2nd special symbols are displayed in a variation state during the 1st time-saving state. The main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is provided with a first special symbol counter 2934 for counting the number of times the first special symbol is displayed, and a second special symbol counter 2935 for counting the number of times the second special symbol is displayed. The game state control means 250 sets "5" as the number of first time reductions when transitioning to the first time reduction state at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the first special symbol counter 2934 or the second special symbol counter 2935 each time the display of a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) is executed. Then, based on the execution of the display of a special symbol, when the sum of the values ​​of the first special symbol counter 2934 and the second special symbol counter 2935 reaches "5", the game state control means 250 determines that the first time reduction condition has been met, terminates the first time reduction state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0142] (Conditions for ending the second shortened time state) In the gaming machine of this embodiment, multiple termination conditions are set as termination conditions for the second time-saving state, including the 2A termination condition and the 2B termination condition. The gaming state control means 250 terminates the second time-saving state and transitions the gaming state back to the normal state based on the fulfillment of one of the termination conditions for the second time-saving state (for example, one of the multiple termination conditions).

[0143] (Conditions for ending 2A) In this embodiment, in the second time-saving state, the second A termination condition is met when the sum of the number of times the normal mechanism 54 is activated based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 1, the number of times the normal mechanism 54 is activated based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 2, and the number of times the normal mechanism 54 is activated based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 3 reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the second time-saving state) (second A time-saving count). Specifically, when the game state control means 250 transitions to the second time-saving state at the end of the special game state, it sets the second A time-saving count to "1". The game state control means 250 adds 1 to the value of the regular symbol 1 operation start counter 2931 each time the regular bonus item 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 1, adds 1 to the value of the regular symbol 2 operation start counter 2932 each time the regular bonus item 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 2, and adds 1 to the value of the regular symbol 3 operation start counter 2933 each time the regular bonus item 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 3. When the sum of the values ​​of each counter reaches "1", it is determined that the 2A termination condition has been met, the 1st time-saving state is terminated, and the game state is returned to the normal state.

[0144] (Conditions for ending 2B) The 2B termination condition is based on the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state. In this embodiment, the 2B termination condition is met when the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state during the second time-saving state reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (the start of the second time-saving state) (the 2B time-saving count). The "number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state during the second time-saving state" is the sum of the number of times the first special symbols are displayed and the number of times the second special symbols are displayed during the second time-saving state. The game state control means 250 sets the number of 2B time reduction rounds to "5" when transitioning to the 2nd time reduction state at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the 1st special symbol counter 2934 or the 2nd special symbol counter 2935 each time a variation display of a special symbol (1st special symbol or 2nd special symbol) is executed. Then, based on the execution of the variation display of the special symbols, when the sum of the values ​​of the 1st special symbol counter 2934 and the 2nd special symbol counter 2935 reaches "5", the game state control means 250 determines that the 2B termination condition has been met, terminates the 2nd time reduction state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0145] (Transition of game state) In this embodiment, a first special symbol lottery is performed based on ball entry into the first start port 46, and a second special symbol lottery is performed based on ball entry into the second start port 49. Furthermore, the game state at the start of the special symbol variation is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. The game state control means 250 transitions the game state to a special game state based on winning a "win" (a predetermined result: minor win or major win) in the special symbol lottery, but can determine (change) which game state to transition to after the special game state ends, according to the game state (and winning symbol) stored in the predetermined area. In other words, the game state after the special game state ends can be made different (switched) according to the game state stored in the predetermined area. In other words, the game state control means 250 can make the game state after the execution of the special game (special game state) different, depending on the game state set at the time when the special symbol lottery is executed.

[0146] (First special design drawing) The game state control means 250 transitions the game state to a special game state (including via a minor win game state) based on the fact that a "win" ("winning symbol 1" or "winning symbol 2") has been won in the first special symbol lottery, and after the special game state ends, transitions the game state to either the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state. If a "win" is won in the first special symbol lottery, the game state control means 250 decides whether to transition to the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state as follows, depending on the game state at the start of the variation of the first special symbol related to the win and the winning symbol (winning symbol).

[0147] The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the first special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the first special symbol related to the win is the "normal state", and the "winning symbol 2" is achieved, sets the number of time reductions related to the first time reduction state (1st A time reduction "1", 1st B time reduction "1", 1st C time reduction "130", 1st D time reduction "130", 1st F time reduction "130", 1st F time reduction "5") at the end of the special game state, and transitions to the first time reduction state.

[0148] The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the first special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the first special symbol related to the win is the "normal state", and the "winning symbol 1" is achieved, sets the number of time reduction rounds for the second time reduction state (2A time reduction rounds "1", 2B time reduction rounds "5") at the end of the special game state, and transitions to the second time reduction state.

[0149] (Second special design drawing) The game state control means 250 transitions the game state to a special game state (including via a minor win game state) based on the winning of a "win" ("winning symbol 3" or "winning symbol 4") in the second special symbol lottery, and transitions the game state to a first time-saving state or a second time-saving state after the special game state ends. In this embodiment, when a "win" is obtained in the second special symbol lottery, the game state at the start of the variation (win variation) of the second special symbol related to that win is controlled to be either a normal state or a first time-saving state. The following will be explained in detail using Figure 13.

[0150] Figure 13(a) shows the case where, in the first time-saving state, a normal symbol lottery is performed and a normal win is achieved, normal win symbol 1 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained. (1) In the first time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 1 is displayed (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 is started based on the display of regular winning symbol 1, and the 1A termination condition is met based on the start of operation, and the state transitions to the normal state at the start of operation (start of opening). (2) In the normal state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start port 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts to change, and the game state at the start of the change, "normal state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the normal state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start port 49 is performed. (3) In the normal state, the opening (operation) of the ordinary mechanism 54 ends. That is, the ordinary mechanism 54 becomes closed. In this embodiment, the closing condition of the ordinary mechanism 54 is met and the operation of the ordinary mechanism 54 ends based on the entry of one (specified number of balls) game ball into the second start opening 49. Alternatively, the system may be configured so that the closing condition of the ordinary mechanism 54 is met based on the elapsed time of the ordinary mechanism 54's open period (specified open period). (4) Based on the stopping display of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). (5) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in (2) above is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "normal state," the game state control means 250 sets the number of time reductions related to the first time reduction state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the win is for the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4, and transitions to the first time reduction state.

[0151] Furthermore, the timing at which the game state control means 250 refers to the game state and determines the game state after the special game state ends (which time-saving state to transition to) can be any timing between the time of winning a "win" (including the start of the special symbol variation) and the end of the special game state. The same applies hereafter.

[0152] Figure 13(b) shows the case where, in the first time-saving state, a normal symbol lottery is performed and a normal win is achieved, normal win symbol 2 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained. (a) In the first time-saving state, if the result of the normal symbol lottery is that normal winning symbol 2 stops (i.e., the long opening pattern of normal mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of normal mechanism 54 will start based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 2, but none of the termination conditions will be met based on the start of operation (the state will not transition to the normal state). (i) In the first time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start port 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts to change, and the game state at the start of the change, "first time-saving state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the first time-saving state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start port 49 is executed. (u) In the first time-saving state, the opening (operation) of the normal mechanism 54 ends. That is, the normal mechanism 54 becomes closed. Based on the termination of the operation of the normal mechanism 54, the 1B termination condition is met, the first time-saving state ends and the game transitions to the normal state. In other words, the game transitions to the normal state when the operation of the normal mechanism 54 ends. In this embodiment, "the time when the operation of the normal mechanism 54 ends" is the time when the closing of the normal mechanism 54 begins based on the entry of one game ball into the second start opening 49, but it may also be the time when the open time of the normal mechanism 54 has elapsed. (e) The special game state is initiated (the special game is executed) based on the stop indication of the second special symbol. In this embodiment, as described in (u) above, the system transitions to the normal state when the operation of the regular feature 54 ends, but it may also be configured to transition to the normal state when the stop indication of the second special symbol is displayed. (o) At the end of the special game state, the game state "first time reduction state" stored in (i) above is referenced. The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "first time reduction state", sets the number of time reductions related to the second time reduction state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, and transitions to the second time reduction state.

[0153] Regarding (i) and (iii) in Figure 13(b), the process of starting the variation of the second special symbol (special symbol variation start process) based on the entry of a game ball into the second start opening 49, and the process of starting the closing of the normal mechanism 54 based on the entry of the ball (normal mechanism closing process) are executed in the same interrupt process. However, in this interrupt process, the special symbol variation start process is executed before the normal mechanism closing process. Therefore, after the game state "first time reduction state" is stored when the variation of the special symbol starts, the normal mechanism closing process is executed and the game state transitions to the normal state.

[0154] Although not shown in the diagram, in the first time-saving state, if the result of the normal symbol lottery is that the normal winning symbol 3 stops (i.e., the short opening pattern of the normal mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (short opening) of the normal mechanism 54 starts based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 3. However, based on the end of that operation (1 time), none of the termination conditions are met, and the first time-saving state continues. If the 1E termination condition is met based on the end of the operation of the normal mechanism 54 based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 3, the first time-saving state ends, and the game returns to the normal state.

[0155] Figure 13(c) shows the case where, in the second time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, regular win symbol 1 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained. (A) In the second time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 1 is displayed (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 is started based on the display of regular winning symbol 1, and the second A termination condition is met based on the start of operation, and the state returns to normal at the start of operation (start of opening). (B) In the normal state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts to change, and the game state at the start of the change, "normal state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the normal state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start opening 49 is performed. (C) In the normal state, the opening (operation) of the normal mechanism 54 ends. That is, the normal mechanism 54 becomes closed. (D) Based on the stopping display of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). (E) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in (B) above is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is "normal state," then at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, the game state control means 250 sets the number of time reductions related to the first time reduction state and transitions to the first time reduction state.

[0156] Figure 13(c) shows the case where a regular symbol lottery is performed in the second time-saving state and regular winning symbol 1 is displayed as the stop. However, the same control is applied when a regular symbol lottery is performed in the second time-saving state and regular winning symbol 2 or regular winning symbol 3 is displayed as the stop. In other words, in the second time-saving state, regardless of which regular winning symbol is displayed as the stop, the operation (long opening) of the regular mechanism 54 is started based on that stop, and the 2A termination condition is met based on the start of that operation, the second time-saving state ends, and the game transitions to the normal state. Then, based on the fact that a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is the "normal state", the game state after the end of the special game state is determined to be the first time-saving state.

[0157] As described above, in this embodiment, a total of 10 rounds of special games are played based on one win, and the player can win 1500 prize balls. If the regular winning symbol 1 is won during the first time-saving state, the game returns to the first time-saving state after one special game state. For this reason, winning the regular winning symbol 1 during the first time-saving state may be called a "1500-ball win." Winning the regular winning symbol 1 during the first time-saving state (1500-ball win) can be described as a win that allows for one special game state to be executed based on one long opening. If the regular winning symbol 2 is won in the first time-saving state, after the first special game state (1500 balls can be won) ends, the second special game state begins after the second time-saving state (1G consecutive win), and after the second special game state ends, the game returns to the first time-saving state. For this reason, winning the regular winning symbol 2 in the first time-saving state may be called a "3000 ball win". Winning the regular winning symbol 2 in the first time-saving state (3000 ball win) can be said to be a win that allows for the execution of multiple (total of 2) special game states based on multiple (total of 2) long openings (a total of 2 long openings in different time-saving states).

[0158] In this embodiment, the timing for ending the first time-saving state (the timing for transitioning to the normal state) differs depending on whether the normal winning symbol 1 or normal winning symbol 2 is displayed during the first time-saving state. Therefore, the game state at the start of the special symbol (second special symbol) variation (winning variation) can be made different depending on whether the normal winning symbol 1 or normal winning symbol 2 is displayed during the first time-saving state. This makes it possible to determine which game state to transition to after the special game state ends by referring to the game state at the start of the special symbol (second special symbol) variation, and to switch between transitioning to the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state depending on the game state. In this embodiment, it is more advantageous for the player when they win a predetermined long-opening symbol (normal winning symbol 2) during the first time-saving state than when they win any other long-opening symbol (normal winning symbol 1). The former involves two special game states being played before returning to the first time-saving state, while the latter involves one special game state before returning to the first time-saving state.

[0159] (Preliminary assessment) As described above, the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the first start-up switch 100, which detects each game ball entering the first start-up opening 46, and obtains a random value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210, and stores it as the first special random value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. The special symbol lottery means 230 also reads the first special random value from the special random number storage means 2914 and performs processes such as jackpot determination and symbol determination as part of the special symbol lottery. The special symbol lottery means 230 (pre-determination means) performs pre-determination processing, such as pre-jackpot determination processing and pre-symbol determination processing, when storing the first 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 and obtains a random value for special symbol lottery (lottery information) from the random number generation means 210, it performs pre-determination processing, such as pre-jackpot determination processing and pre-symbol determination processing, on the first special random value, according to the game state and the number of reserved balls at that time, before storing it as the first special random value. Furthermore, the pre-determination process may be configured to execute a dedicated pre-determination process (pre-jackpot determination process, pre-symbol determination process) rather than the same process (for example, a lottery process based on the same table) that is executed when the variation based on the random value for special symbol lottery that is actually stored as pending is executed. In addition, the pre-determination process may be configured to perform a pre-determination regarding the variation time of the special symbol. The special symbol lottery means 230 transmits the pre-determination results, including the results of the pre-jackpot determination process, pre-symbol determination process, etc., as pre-determination result information to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300), and stores the pre-determination results in association with the first special random value that was the subject of the pre-determination process.

[0160] As described above, the normal symbol lottery means 220 receives a detection signal from the gate switch 102, which detects each game ball passing through the passage gate 48, and 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 means 220 also reads the random value for normal symbol lottery from the normal random number storage means 2912 and performs normal win determination processing, normal symbol determination processing, etc., as part of the normal symbol lottery. The normal symbol lottery means 220 (pre-determination means) performs pre-determination processing such as pre-normal win determination processing and pre-normal symbol determination processing when storing random values ​​for normal symbol lottery in the normal random number storage means 2912 (before normal symbol lottery is performed). Based on the detection signal input from the gate switch 102, the normal symbol lottery means 220 obtains random values ​​for normal symbol lottery (lottery information) from the random number generation means 210, and performs pre-determination processing such as pre-normal win determination processing and pre-normal symbol determination processing for the random values ​​for normal symbol lottery, according to the game state and the number of reserved balls at that time. Furthermore, the pre-determination process may be configured to execute a dedicated pre-determination process (pre-regular win determination process, pre-regular symbol determination process) rather than the same process (for example, a lottery process based on the same table) that is executed when the variation based on the random values ​​for the regular symbol lottery stored as pending is actually performed. In addition, the pre-determination process may be configured to perform a pre-determination regarding the variation time of the regular symbols. The regular symbol lottery means 220 transmits the pre-determination results, including the results of the pre-regular win determination process, pre-regular symbol determination process, etc., as pre-determination result information to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300), and stores the pre-determination results in association with the random values ​​for the regular symbol lottery that were the subject of the pre-determination process.

[0161] In the first time-saving state, if a pre-determination process is executed and lottery information (random value for normal symbol lottery) is obtained that the result of the normal symbol lottery will be either "winning normal symbol 1" (1500 balls) or "winning normal symbol 2" (3000 balls), the performance control means 300 may execute a pre-performance (pre-read performance) based on the acquisition of said lottery information before the normal symbol lottery based on said lottery information is executed. The pre-performance is a performance that suggests in advance that the result of the normal symbol lottery will be either "winning normal symbol 1" (1500 balls) or "winning normal symbol 2". The performance control means 300 can execute a special pre-performance (hereinafter referred to as the "high-profit pre-performance") that suggests that two "wins" may be possible if lottery information (random value for lottery for ordinary symbols) is obtained as a result of the ordinary symbol lottery that results in "winning ordinary winning symbol 2" (winning 3000 balls). However, if lottery information (random value for lottery for ordinary symbols) is obtained as a result of the ordinary symbol lottery that results in "winning ordinary winning symbol 1" (winning 1500 balls), the high-profit pre-performance is not executed.

[0162] If a high-profit pre-announcement is performed, a display indicating the winning of regular winning symbol 2 will be shown on the LCD display 32. The display indicating the winning of regular winning symbol 2 will directly or indirectly indicate that the player will be able to win 3,000 prize balls. A display that directly indicates this may include a display containing the number "3000", while a display that indirectly indicates this may include, for example, a rainbow-colored display (characters, letters, or a hold image in the hold display area).

[0163] Furthermore, when a pre-announcement is performed that suggests the winning of regular winning symbol 1, a different display from the high-profit pre-announcement is displayed on the LCD display 32. This display may include words such as "Chance" or "Super Hot," or it may display a color scheme based on red or gold (such as characters, letters, or hold images in the hold display area).

[0164] In addition, although the above describes the pre-animation that is performed before the regular symbol lottery is executed, the performance control means 300 can read the random value for the regular symbol lottery and perform the regular symbol lottery, and while the regular symbol variation display (during the execution of the regular symbol variation animation) is running in relation to the winning of "regular winning symbol 1" or "regular winning symbol 2", it can execute an animation (regular symbol variation animation) that suggests the winning of regular winning symbol 1 or regular winning symbol 2. Furthermore, similar to the pre-animation, if "regular winning symbol 2" is won in the first time-saving state, it is possible to execute a "high-profit regular symbol variation animation" that suggests that the right to "win" may occur twice.

[0165] Here, we consider a conventional control example different from this embodiment, in which, in the first time-saving state, the timing for ending the first time-saving state is the same whether the normal winning symbol 1 or the normal winning symbol 2 is displayed as stopped, and unlike this embodiment, the destination is not determined by referring to the game state. Instead, the normal mechanism 54 is opened for a long time based on the display of the normal winning symbol 1 or normal winning symbol 2, and based on the entry of a game ball into the second start opening 49 (based on the execution of the second special symbol lottery), it is determined which game state to transition to after the special game state ends, according to the winning symbol (minor winning symbol or major winning symbol). In this case, even if the winning symbols include a win that awards a total of 3,000 balls (3,000-ball win), the second special random value based on balls entering the second start port 49 is not acquired during the period before the regular mechanism 54 opens for a long time in the first time-saving state. Therefore, it is not possible to perform a pre-determination based on the second special random value (it is not possible to acquire the lottery information that will result in a 3,000-ball win). For this reason, it is not possible to perform a pre-animation (high-profit pre-animation) that suggests a 3,000-ball win during the period before the regular mechanism 54 opens for a long time in the first time-saving state. The same applies to pre-animations that suggest a 1,500-ball win.

[0166] In this embodiment, the gaming machine differs the timing of ending the first time-saving state depending on whether the normal winning symbol 1 or normal winning symbol 2 stops during the first time-saving state. It also differs the game state at the start of the special symbol (second special symbol) variation. After the special game state ends, the game state to transition to is determined by referring to the game state at the start of the special symbol (second special symbol) variation, and the game switches between transitioning to the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state (1G consecutive) after the special game state ends. When the normal winning symbol 2 is won during the first time-saving state, it is considered a win that transitions to the second time-saving state after the special game state ends, and is awarded 3000 balls. In the period before the regular feature 54 opens for a long time during the first time-saving state, it is possible to obtain lottery information (random value for regular symbol lottery) that will result in a "winning regular symbol 2" (3000 balls) based on a pre-determination based on the passage of the game ball through gate 48. Therefore, if this lottery information is obtained, the above-mentioned pre-animation (high-profit pre-animation) can be executed to suggest in advance that a 3000 ball win will occur. Furthermore, if the lottery information obtained in the same pre-determination will result in a "winning regular symbol 1" (1500 balls), the winning regular symbol 1 can be suggested in advance by executing a pre-animation that suggests a win of regular symbol 1. By implementing pre-show effects (high-profit pre-show effects), it is possible to create a sense of anticipation (excitement) in the player at an earlier stage, such as before the game ball enters the second starting gate 49 and during the normal symbol variation effect related to the normal symbol lottery, thereby improving the enjoyment of the game. Furthermore, even if the "Regular Winning Symbol 2" is selected in the first time-saving state and the animation that suggests the winning of Regular Winning Symbol 2 is performed during the display of the Regular Winning Symbol's variation, since this animation is performed before the acquisition of the second special random value based on the ball entering the second start gate 49, it can suggest the winning of a 3000-ball prize in advance, thereby enhancing the enjoyment of the game.

[0167] (Output of external signal) Although not shown in the diagram, the main control board 200 is equipped with an external signal output means. The external signal output means can transmit multiple types of external signals to an external device via an external terminal board provided inside the housing. The external signals can be described as signals that indicate the status of the gaming machine. Examples of external devices include a hall computer that centrally manages the gaming machines set up in the gaming hall, and a data display device that is individually connected to a gaming machine and can display information related to the gaming history, etc.

[0168] One of several types of external signals is the jackpot signal. The external signal output means outputs the jackpot signal to the external device each time the game transitions to a special game state (each time the special game state begins). The external signal output means may set the jackpot signal to the ON state based on the start of the special game state and set the jackpot signal to the OFF state based on the end of the special game state.

[0169] In this embodiment, the special game state and the time-saving state may alternately repeat. Here, the series of periods in which the special game state and the time-saving state alternately repeat is called the winning streak period. One of the multiple types of external signals is the winning streak signal (specific signal), and the external signal output means outputs the winning streak signal to an external device during the winning streak period. The external signal output means may set the winning streak signal to the ON state based on the start of the winning streak period and set the winning streak signal to the OFF state based on the end of the winning streak period. That is, the winning streak signal may remain ON during the winning streak period.

[0170] As shown in Figure 13(b), when the regular winning symbol 2 stops in the first time-saving state, the first time-saving state does not end based on the start of operation of the regular mechanism 54, and the first time-saving state is maintained until the operation of the regular mechanism 54 ends. Therefore, the variation of the special symbol related to the win (win variation) starts in the first time-saving state (while the first time-saving state is maintained). For this reason, the main control board 200 does not determine that the winning streak period has ended (was interrupted).

[0171] On the other hand, for example, as shown in Figure 13(a), if the normal winning symbol 1 stops in the first time-saving state, the first time-saving state ends based on the start of operation of the normal mechanism 54, and after transitioning to the normal state, the variation of the special symbol related to the win (win variation) begins. Therefore, if no care is taken, the main control board 200 will determine that the winning streak period has ended (was interrupted) (based on the transition to the normal state), and the output of the winning streak signal will end once (the winning streak signal will turn OFF once). In this case, even though the winning streak is actually continuing, it may be determined that the winning streak has been interrupted, and a new winning streak count may be started, which can be a problem.

[0172] In this embodiment, during a time-saving state (first time-saving state or second time-saving state), the operation of the regular feature 54 is started based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol related to the long opening, and even if the time-saving state ends based on the start of operation (when it transitions to the normal state), the continuous win signal is controlled not to turn OFF based on that. In other words, the continuous win signal is controlled to remain ON while the regular feature 54 is in a long opening state. Note that the maintenance of the continuous win signal ON may be configured to continue until the display of the special symbol related to the win ends. By doing so, since the display of the special symbol related to the win starts while the continuous win signal is ON, the main control board 200 does not determine that the continuous win period has ended. This prevents the problem from occurring where the continuous win is actually continuing but is determined to have ended, and a new continuous win count is started.

[0173] (modified version) In the above explanation, regarding (i) and (iii) in Figure 13(b), it was stated that the process of starting the variation of the second special symbol based on the entry of a game ball into the second start opening 49 (special symbol variation start process) and the process of starting the closing of the ordinary mechanism 54 based on the entry of the ball (ordinary mechanism closing process) are executed in the same interrupt process, and in the interrupt process, the special symbol variation start process is executed before the ordinary mechanism closing process. However, the process related to the closing of the ordinary mechanism 54 may be executed before the process related to the start of the variation of the special symbol, as follows.

[0174] In Figure 13, the regular feature 54 is shown to close based on the entry of one game ball into the second starting opening 49. However, here, the regular feature 54 is shown to close (the closing condition is met) based on the entry of two game balls into the second starting opening 49. In the interrupt processing after the first ball is entered, first, a process (first process) determines whether or not to close the regular feature 54 based on the entry of the first ball, and it is determined that it will not be closed (the closing condition is not met) (the first time-saving state is maintained). Next, a process (second process) determines whether or not to start the display of the second special symbol based on the entry of the first ball (and whether or not to store the game state at the start of the display), and it is determined that the display of the symbol will be started (and the game state will be stored). Then, in the interrupt processing after the second ball enters, first, in the first process, it is determined that the regular feature 54 should be closed based on the ball that entered, and then in the second process, it is determined that the second special symbol should not be allowed to change (the game state should not be memorized) based on the ball that entered.

[0175] 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 first start port (first start port 46) is located in a predetermined area within the game area, A second start port (second start port 49) is located in a region different from the predetermined region in the game area, A movable member (ordinary mechanism 54) that changes the ease with which the ball enters the second starting opening, An operating opening (passage gate 48 or operating prize opening) that triggers the execution of a normal pattern lottery, which involves displacing the aforementioned movable member to a state where balls can easily enter, In a special game that is performed when the result of a special symbol lottery, which is performed when a ball enters the first or second starting opening, is a predetermined result, there is a large prize opening (large prize opening 50) that makes it easy for the ball to enter, The system includes a game state setting means (game state control means 250) that can set game states including a ball-entry easy state in which the movable member is relatively easy to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, and a normal game state in which the movable member is relatively difficult to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, In the aforementioned regular winning pattern drawing, at least a first regular winning pattern and a second regular winning pattern are provided as regular winning patterns that can result in displacing the movable member to a state that facilitates ball entry. The ball entry easy state can be set after the special game is performed based on the predetermined result obtained in the special symbol lottery, and the ball entry easy state includes multiple types of ball entry easy states, including a first specific ball entry easy state. When the normal symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the first normal winning symbol is determined, the movable member is displaced to facilitate ball entry into the second start opening, and the normal game state is controlled to be set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening. When the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the second regular winning symbol is determined, the movable member is displaced to facilitate ball entry into the second start opening, and the first specific ball entry easy state is maintained when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening. The game state setting means can make the game state set after the execution of the special game different, depending on the game state set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening.

[0176] By making the game state set after the execution of the special game different depending on which game state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second starting gate, it is possible to diversify the methods for transitioning between game states and provide new gameplay. This can enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0177] In this embodiment (as shown in Figure 13), when the regular winning symbol 1 is won in the first time-saving state (i.e., when 1500 balls are won), the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation is controlled to be the normal state, and when the regular winning symbol 2 is won in the first time-saving state (i.e., when 3000 balls are won), the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation is controlled to be the time-saving state (first time-saving state). However, it is sufficient for the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation to be different, and it may even be reversed. In other words, if the regular winning symbol 1 is won in the first time-saving state (i.e., a 1500-ball win), the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation is controlled to be the first time-saving state (high reference) (transitioning to the normal state when the regular mechanism 54 finishes operating). Alternatively, if the regular winning symbol 2 is won in the first time-saving state (i.e., a 3000-ball win), the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation is controlled to be the normal state (low reference) (transitioning to the normal state when the regular mechanism 54 starts operating). However, in that case, if the regular winning symbol 1 is won (a 1500-ball win), the player could aim to enter the second start opening 49 just before the regular mechanism 54 closes, so that the normal state is referenced instead of the first time-saving state (the game ball is in the normal state at the time it passes the sensor), and the game state at the start of the special symbol variation would be the normal state, potentially creating a way to exploit the game by turning a 1500-ball win into a 3000-ball win. For this reason, as in this embodiment, it is preferable to set the win with the smaller payout (1500-ball win) as a low reference (referencing the normal state). In other words, by setting the 1500-ball win as a low reference, it is possible to prevent the exploitation of the game as described above. Furthermore, if a "waiting time after closing" (for example, 2 seconds) is set based on the completion of operation of the regular mechanism 54 (as shown in the fifth embodiment), and the transition to the normal state is made to occur after the waiting time after closing has elapsed, rather than when the operation of the regular mechanism 54 is completed, the win with the smaller number of prize balls may be designated as the high reference (referencing the first time-saving state). Even if a game ball is entered just before the regular mechanism 54 closes, the first time-saving state is maintained when the special symbol starts to change (the first time-saving state is maintained at the time the game ball passes the sensor), thus preventing the kind of exploitation of the game described above.

[0178] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The aforementioned multiple types of ball entry easy states include a second specific ball entry easy state in which the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start opening is performed and the predetermined result is obtained, and it is substantially determined that the execution of the special game is decided. The aforementioned game state setting means is If the normal game state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on ball entry into the second starting gate, the game state after the execution of the special game will be set to the first specific ball entry easy state. If the first specific ball entry easy state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on ball entry into the second starting gate, the game state after the execution of the special game will be the second specific ball entry easy state.

[0179] If the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the first regular winning symbol is determined, the normal game state is set to occur at the time when the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start gate is performed, and the game transitions to the first specific ball entry easy state after the special game is performed. In other words, one special game is performed. If the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific easy ball entry state and the second regular winning symbol is determined, the first specific easy ball entry state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start gate is performed, and the game transitions to the second specific easy ball entry state after the special game is performed. Then, in the second specific easy ball entry state, the execution of the special game is decided. For this reason, the special game is performed multiple times (a total of two times, spanning the second specific easy ball entry state). Now, consider the case where, in the first specific easy ball entry state, the normal symbol lottery is performed and the first normal winning symbol is determined, the first specific easy ball entry state is maintained when the special symbol lottery is performed based on ball entry into the second start gate, and the game state after the special game is performed becomes the first specific easy ball entry state based on the fact that the first specific easy ball entry state is maintained, and in the case where, in the first specific easy ball entry state, the normal symbol lottery is performed and the second normal winning symbol is determined, the normal game state is set when the special symbol lottery is performed based on ball entry into the second start gate, and the game state after the special game is performed becomes the second specific easy ball entry state based on the fact that the normal game state is maintained. In this case, if the normal symbol lottery is performed in the first specific easy ball entry state and the first normal winning symbol is determined, a strategy may arise in which the game is played in such a way that the normal game state is set instead of the first specific easy ball entry state when the special symbol lottery is performed based on ball entry into the second start gate, and the game state after the execution of the special game is set to the second specific easy ball entry state. In other words, if the normal game state is set when the special symbol lottery is performed based on ball entry into the second start gate, and the game is configured to transition to the second specific easy ball entry state (a more advantageous state) after the execution of the special game, a strategy may arise in which the game is played in such a way that the game state at that time is set to the normal game state, thereby obtaining the transition to the second specific easy ball entry state. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, if the normal game state is set when the special symbol lottery is performed based on ball entry into the second start gate, the game transitions to the first specific easy ball entry state instead of the second specific easy ball entry state after the execution of the special game. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the development of a strategy where the player aims to play in such a way that the game state at the time when the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second starting gate is performed becomes the normal game state, thereby obtaining the transition to the second specific ball entry easy state.

[0180] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, It is equipped with a performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, The aforementioned performance control means is If information is obtained that the second regular winning symbol will be determined as a result of the regular symbol lottery in the first specific ball entry easy state, a pre-show indicating that the second regular winning symbol will be determined can be performed before the regular symbol lottery based on said information is performed.

[0181] As described above, if the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific easy ball entry state and the second regular winning symbol is determined, the first specific easy ball entry state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start gate is performed, and the game transitions to the second specific easy ball entry state after the special game is performed. Then, in the second specific easy ball entry state, the execution of the special game is decided. For this reason, the special game will be performed multiple times (a total of two times, spanning the second specific easy ball entry state). Thus, the pre-show that suggests the determination of the second regular winning symbol is a pre-show that suggests the execution of multiple special games (high-profit pre-show). By informing the player that multiple special games may be performed before the regular symbol lottery is performed, it is possible to create a sense of anticipation (excitement) in the player at an earlier stage. This can improve the enjoyment of the game.

[0182] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, When the normal symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the first normal winning symbol is determined, the normal game state is set when the displacement of the movable member to the ball entry easy state is initiated. When the regular symbol lottery is performed in the aforementioned specific ball-entry easy state and the second regular winning symbol is determined, the normal game state is set when the displacement of the movable member to the ball-entry easy state is terminated.

[0183] 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 first start port (first start port 46) is located in a predetermined area within the game area, A second start port (second start port 49) is located in a region different from the predetermined region in the game area, A movable member (ordinary mechanism 54) that changes the ease with which the ball enters the second starting opening, An operating opening (passage gate 48 or operating prize opening) that triggers the execution of a normal pattern lottery, which involves displacing the aforementioned movable member to a state where balls can easily enter, In a special game that is performed when the result of a special symbol lottery, which is performed when a ball enters the first or second starting opening, is a predetermined result, there is a large prize opening (large prize opening 50) that makes it easy for the ball to enter, A game state setting means (game state control means 250) that can set game states including a ball-entry easy state in which the movable member is relatively easy to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, and a normal game state in which the movable member is relatively difficult to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, It includes a performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, In the aforementioned regular winning pattern drawing, at least a first regular winning pattern and a second regular winning pattern are provided as regular winning patterns that can result in displacing the movable member to a state that facilitates ball entry. The ball entry easy state can be set after the special game is executed based on the predetermined result obtained in the special symbol lottery, and the ball entry easy state has multiple types, and the multiple types of ball entry easy states include at least a first specific ball entry easy state and a second specific ball entry easy state in which the execution of the special game becomes certain. When the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state to determine the second regular winning symbol, the movable member is displaced to facilitate ball entry into the second start opening, and the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening to execute the special game, the system is configured to transition to the second specific ball entry easy state after the execution of the special game. When the aforementioned performance control means obtains information indicating that the second regular winning symbol will be determined as a result of the regular symbol lottery in the first specific ball entry easy state, it is possible to execute a pre-performance (high-profit pre-performance) that suggests the second regular winning symbol will be determined, before the regular symbol lottery based on said information is executed.

[0184] When the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the second regular winning symbol is determined, the movable member is displaced, making it easier for the ball to enter the second start opening, and the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening, and the special game is performed, and after the execution of the special game, the game may transition to the second specific ball entry easy state. The second specific ball entry easy state is a state in which the execution of the special game is certain. Therefore, the pre-show that suggests the determination of the second regular winning symbol can be said to be a pre-show that suggests the execution of multiple special games (high-profit pre-show). By informing the player that multiple special games may be performed before the regular symbol lottery is performed, it is possible to create a sense of anticipation (excitement) in the player at an earlier stage. This can improve the enjoyment of the game.

[0185] (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.

[0186] In the first embodiment of the gaming machine, no random value (second special random value) was retained based on the entry of a game ball into the second start port 49 (in other words, the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103). However, in this embodiment, up to one second special random value is retained. As shown in Figure 4, the status display unit 70 is provided with a second special retention display unit 82. The second special retention display unit 82 consists of two lamps and displays the number of second special retentions corresponding to the number of retained second special random values ​​when, for example, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state when a game ball enters the second start port 49, and the special symbol lottery cannot be performed even if a random value for the special symbol lottery is acquired. The number of second special retentions, from 0 to 1, is displayed by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or flashing the two lamps.

[0187] The special symbol lottery means 230 receives a detection signal from the second start port switch 103, which detects each game ball entering the second start port 49, and obtains a random value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210, and stores it in the special random number storage means 2914 as a second special random value. The special random number storage means 2914 is provided with a second special reserve storage area 1 (second special reserve storage area) as a storage area for storing the obtained second special random value, and one second special reserve storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the second special random value read from the second special reserve storage area 1 and used for special symbol lottery until the variation display and stop display of the second special symbol are finished.

[0188] 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 the second special reserve memory area 1, it 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.

[0189] In the special random number storage means 2914, a second special random number for which no special symbol lottery has been conducted is stored in the second special reserve storage area 1, up to a maximum of one.

[0190] (Transition of game state) As shown in Figure 14, the game state control means 250 (game state setting means) performs a game state transition control process that transitions the game state between multiple types of game states based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions (transition conditions). The multiple types of game states include a normal state, a time-saving state, and a special game state. In this embodiment, the time-saving state (easy ball entry state) is provided as a first time-saving state, a second time-saving state, a third time-saving state, and a fourth time-saving state.

[0191] (Second time reduction state: Normal diagram ST) The second time-saving state is the same as the first time-saving state shown in the first embodiment. The 2A time reduction count (2A termination condition) is the 1A time reduction count (1A termination condition) shown in Figure 12. The 2B time reduction count (2B termination condition) is the 1B time reduction count (1B termination condition) shown in Figure 12. The 2C time reduction count (2C termination condition) is the 1C time reduction count (1C termination condition) shown in Figure 12. The 2D time reduction count (2D termination condition) is the 1D time reduction count (1D termination condition) shown in Figure 12. The 2E time reduction count (2E termination condition) is the 1E time reduction count (1E termination condition) shown in Figure 12. The 2F time reduction count (2F termination condition) is the 1F time reduction count (1F termination condition) shown in Figure 12.

[0192] (Fourth time reduction state: 1G consecutive wins) The fourth time-saving state is the same as the second time-saving state shown in the first embodiment. The 4A time reduction count (4A termination condition) is the 2A time reduction count (2A termination condition) shown in Figure 12. The 4B time reduction count (4B termination condition) is the 2B time reduction count (2B termination condition) shown in Figure 12.

[0193] (First time reduction state: For using up pending items) The first time-saving state is almost identical to the second time-saving state. The difference lies in the termination conditions for the first A state. Additionally, there are termination conditions for the first G state that are not present in the second time-saving state. (Conditions for ending 1A) In the first time-saving state, if the sum of the number of times the regular mechanism 54 is activated based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 1 and the number of times the regular mechanism 54 is activated based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 2 reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the first time-saving state) (first A time-saving count), then the first A termination condition is met. Specifically, when the game state control means 250 transitions to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, it sets the first A time-saving count to "1". The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the regular symbol 1 operation start counter 2931 each time the regular bonus item 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 1, and adds "1" to the value of the regular symbol 2 operation start counter 2932 each time the regular bonus item 54 starts operating based on the stop display of the regular winning symbol 2. When the sum of the values ​​of each counter reaches "1", the game state control means 250 determines that the 1A termination condition has been met, terminates the 1st time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state. (Conditions for ending the first game) The 1G termination condition is based on the number of times the 2nd special symbol is displayed in a variation state. In this embodiment, the 1G termination condition is met when the number of times the 2nd special symbol is displayed in a variation state during the 2nd time-saving state reaches the number of times set at the end of the special game state (start of the 1st time-saving state) (1G time-saving count). The game state control means 250 sets "1" as the number of first game time reductions when transitioning to the first time reduction state at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the second special symbol counter 2935 each time the second special symbol variation display is executed. When the value of the second special symbol counter 2935 reaches "1" based on the execution of the second special symbol variation display, the game state control means 250 determines that the first game termination condition has been met, terminates the first time reduction state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0194] (Third time reduction state: For using up pending items) Since the third time-saving state is the same as the first time-saving state, we will omit the redundant explanation.

[0195] (Regular winning symbol 1) If, during the second time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, and regular win symbol 1 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained, the machine will be controlled as follows. (1) In the second time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 1 is displayed (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 is started based on the display of regular winning symbol 1, and the second A termination condition is met based on the start of operation, and the state returns to normal at the start of operation (start of opening). (2) In the normal state, the first game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the normal prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts, and the game state at the start of the variation, "normal state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the normal state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start opening 49 is performed. In this embodiment, the closing condition of the normal prize 54 is not met when one game ball enters the second start opening 49, and the closing condition of the normal prize 54 is met when two game balls enter the second start opening or when the open time of the normal prize 54 has elapsed. (3) In the normal state, a second game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular feature 54. Since the second special symbol is currently being displayed in a variable state, the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1. Also, the opening (operation) of the regular feature 54 ends based on the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49. That is, the regular feature 54 becomes closed. (4) Based on the stopping display of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). (5) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in (2) above is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "normal state," then at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the win is for the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4, the game state control means 250 sets the number of time reductions related to the first time reduction state and transitions to the first time reduction state (for consuming reserved balls).

[0196] In this embodiment, the game can transition to the first time-saving state while the second special random value is held in the second special reserve memory area 1. When the game transitions to the first time-saving state while the second special random value is held, the first time-saving state begins, and the second special symbol lottery (display of the second special symbol variation) is started by reading the second special random value. At this time, the game state at the start of the variation of the special symbol is the "first time-saving state," and the "first time-saving state" is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. Then, based on the display of the variation of one special symbol (second special symbol), the first game termination condition is met, the first time-saving state ends, and the game transitions to the normal state.

[0197] Then, based on the stop indication of the second special symbol, the special game state is started (the special game is executed). At the end of the special game state, the game state "first time-saving state" stored in the predetermined area is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is the "first time-saving state," then the game state control means 250 sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the second time-saving state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4 is won, and transitions to the second time-saving state.

[0198] If the regular winning symbol 1 is won in the second time-saving state, after the first special game state (1500 balls can be won) ends, the first time-saving state is returned, followed by the second special game state (1500 balls can be won), and after the second special game state ends, the player returns to the second time-saving state. For this reason, winning the regular winning symbol 1 in the second time-saving state may be called a "3000 ball win". In this embodiment, a 3000 ball win is a win that allows for multiple (a total of 2) special game states to be executed based on one long opening.

[0199] (Regular winning symbol 2) If, during the second time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, and regular win symbol 2 stops and is displayed, resulting in a long opening, the machine will be controlled as follows. (a) In the second time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 2 stops (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 will start based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 2, but none of the termination conditions will be met based on the start of operation (the state will not transition to the normal state). (i) In the second time-saving state, the first game ball enters (wins) the second start port 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts, and the game state at the start of the variation, "second time-saving state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the second time-saving state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start port 49 is executed. (u) In the second time-saving state, the second game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular feature 54. Since the second special symbol is currently being displayed in a variable state, the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1. Also, the opening (operation) of the regular feature 54 ends based on the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49. That is, the regular feature 54 becomes closed. Based on the termination of the operation of the regular feature 54, the second B termination condition is met, the second time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. (e) Based on the stop display of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). (o) At the end of the special game state, the game state "second time-saving state" stored in (i) above is referenced. The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "second time-saving state", sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the third time-saving state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, and transitions to the third time-saving state (for consuming reserved balls).

[0200] If the game transitions to the third time-saving state while the second special random value is still pending, the third time-saving state begins, and the second special symbol lottery (display of the second special symbol variation) starts by reading the second special random value. At this time, the game state at the start of the special symbol variation is the "third time-saving state," and the "third time-saving state" is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. Then, based on the display of the variation of one special symbol (second special symbol), the conditions for ending the third game are met, the third time-saving state ends, and the game transitions to the normal state.

[0201] Then, based on the stop indication of the second special symbol, the special game state is started (the special game is executed). At the end of the special game state, the game state "third time-saving state" stored in the predetermined area is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is the "third time-saving state," the game state control means 250 sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the fourth time-saving state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4 stops, and transitions to the fourth time-saving state.

[0202] If, during the fourth time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, and one of the regular win symbols (regular win symbol 1, regular win symbol 2, or regular win symbol 3) stops and a long opening is obtained, the control will be as follows. Note that the control is the same regardless of which regular win symbol is displayed, so we will explain the case where regular win symbol 1 is displayed.

[0203] (A) In the fourth time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 1 is displayed (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 is started based on the display of regular winning symbol 1, and the fourth A termination condition is met based on the start of operation (start of opening), and the state returns to normal at the start of operation (start of opening). (B) In the normal state, the first game ball enters (wins) the second start port 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts to change, and the game state at the start of the change, "normal state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the normal state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start port 49 is performed. (C) In the normal state, a second game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular mechanism 54. Since the second special symbol is currently being displayed in a variable state, the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1. Also, the opening (operation) of the regular mechanism 54 ends based on the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49. In other words, the regular mechanism 54 becomes closed. (D) Based on the stopping display of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). (E) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in (B) above is referenced. The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "normal state", sets the number of time reductions related to the first time reduction state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4 is won, and transitions to the first time reduction state (for consuming reserved balls).

[0204] If the game transitions to the first time-saving state while the second special random value is still pending, the first time-saving state begins, and the second special symbol lottery (display of the second special symbol's variation) begins by reading the second special random value. To simplify the explanation as it is repetitive, a special game state begins based on the display of the second special symbol's stop, and at the end of the special game state, the stored game state "first time-saving state" is referenced. If a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is "first time-saving state," the game transitions (returns) to the second time-saving state.

[0205] If the regular winning symbol 2 is won in the second time-saving state, after the first special game state (1500 balls can be won) ends, the second special game state (1500 balls can be won) begins after going through the third time-saving state. After the second special game state ends, the game transitions to the fourth time-saving state. In the fourth time-saving state, regardless of which regular winning symbol is won, the third special game state (1500 balls can be won) begins. After the third special game state ends, the fourth special game state (1500 balls can be won) begins after going through the first time-saving state. After the fourth special game state ends, the game returns to the second time-saving state. For this reason, winning the regular winning symbol 2 in the second time-saving state may be called a "6000 ball win". In this embodiment, a 6000 ball win is a win that allows for multiple (total of 4) special game states to be executed based on multiple (total of 2) long openings.

[0206] (If transitioning without holding 1) In the second time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, regular win symbol 1 is displayed as the stop, regular mechanism 54 opens for a long time, and during that long opening, one game ball enters the second start opening 49, but a second game ball does not enter, in which case the game transitions to a special game state based on the first ball that entered, and after the special game state ends, the game transitions to the first time-saving state with no reserved balls. In this case, the second special symbol does not start to change at the start of the first time-saving state, and the conditions for ending the first game are not met (the first time-saving state continues).

[0207] In the first time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, and when regular win symbol 1 stops and is displayed, the regular mechanism 54 begins to open for a long time. At this time, the first A termination condition is met, and the game state transitions to the normal state. The first game ball enters the second start opening 49, a "win" is obtained in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win becomes the "normal state". The second game ball enters the second start opening 49, and the second special random value is reserved. Also, based on the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49, the operation of the regular mechanism 54 ends. The game state control means 250, upon winning a "win" in the second special symbol lottery, and since the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is the "normal state", transitions to the first time-saving state (for consuming reserved symbols) after the special game state ends. As described above, if the transition to the first time-saving state occurs while the second special random value is reserved, the transition (return) to the second time-saving state occurs after the special game state ends. On the other hand, in the first time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, and when regular win symbol 2 is displayed as the stop, the regular mechanism 54 begins to open for a long time. At this time, the first A termination condition is met, and the game state transitions to the normal state. The first game ball enters the second start opening 49, a "win" is obtained in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win becomes the "normal state". The second game ball enters the second start opening 49, and the second special random value is reserved. Also, based on the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49, the operation of the regular mechanism 54 ends. The game state control means 250, upon winning a "win" in the second special symbol lottery, and since the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is the "normal state", transitions to the first time-saving state (for consuming reserved symbols) after the special game state ends. As described above, if the transition to the first time-saving state occurs while the second special random value is reserved, the transition (return) to the second time-saving state occurs after the special game state ends.

[0208] (If the transition is completed without any holding) In the second time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, regular win symbol 2 stops and is displayed, regular mechanism 54 opens for a long time, and during that long opening, one game ball enters the second start opening 49 but a second game ball does not enter, then based on the first ball entering, the game transitions to a special game state, and after the special game state ends, the game transitions to the third time-saving state with no reserved balls. In this case, the second special symbol does not start to change at the start of the third time-saving state, and the conditions for ending the third game are not met (the third time-saving state continues).

[0209] In the third time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved. When regular win symbol 1 stops and is displayed, the regular mechanism 54 begins to open for a long time. At this time, the third A termination condition is met, and the game state transitions to the normal state. The first game ball enters the second start opening 49, a "win" is obtained in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win becomes the "normal state". The second game ball enters the second start opening 49, and the second special random value is reserved. Also, based on the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49, the operation of the regular mechanism 54 ends. The game state control means 250, upon winning a "win" in the second special symbol lottery, and since the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is the "normal state", transitions to the first time-saving state (for consuming reserved symbols) after the special game state ends. As described above, if the transition to the first time-saving state occurs while the second special random value is reserved, the transition (return) to the second time-saving state occurs after the special game state ends. On the other hand, in the third time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, and when regular win symbol 2 is displayed as the stop, the regular mechanism 54 begins to open for a long time. At this time, the conditions for ending the third A are met, and the game state transitions to the normal state. The first game ball enters the second start opening 49, a "win" is obtained in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win becomes the "normal state". The second game ball enters the second start opening 49, and the second special random value is reserved. Also, based on the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49, the operation of the regular mechanism 54 ends. The game state control means 250, upon winning a "win" in the second special symbol lottery, and since the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is the "normal state", transitions to the first time-saving state (for consuming reserved symbols) after the special game state ends. As described above, if the transition to the first time-saving state occurs while the second special random value is reserved, the transition (return) to the second time-saving state occurs after the special game state ends.

[0210] In the second time-saving state, winning with the regular winning symbol 2 results in a "6000 ball win." However, if the game transitions to the first or third time-saving state in an irregular state (no reserved balls), winning with the regular winning symbol 2 in that first or third time-saving state will not result in a "6000 ball win." For this reason, the type of animations performed in the irregular first or third time-saving state may differ from those in the second time-saving state. For example, in the irregular first or third time-saving state, the high-profit pre-animation and high-profit regular winning variation animations may not be performed, and the background may be slightly different.

[0211] (Variation 1) In this embodiment, in the fourth time-saving state, regardless of which regular winning symbol is displayed when it stops, the game transitions to the normal state based on the start of operation of the regular mechanism 54 based on that stop display. Therefore, when transitioning to the fourth time-saving state, regardless of which regular winning symbol is displayed when it stops, a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win becomes the "normal state", and after the special game state ends, the game transitions to the first time-saving state (for consuming reserved balls). In this modified example, in the fourth time-saving state, if a predetermined regular winning symbol (let's call it regular winning symbol 2) is displayed when it stops, the game does not transition to the normal state based on the start of operation of the regular mechanism 54 based on that stop display (the fourth time-saving state continues).

[0212] In this modified version, if, in the fourth time-saving state, the result of the normal symbol lottery is that normal winning symbol 2 stops (i.e., the long opening pattern of normal mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of normal mechanism 54 begins based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 2, but none of the termination conditions are met based on the start of operation (the state does not transition to the normal state). Next, in the fourth time-saving state, the first game ball enters (wins) into the second start port 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts to change, and the game state at the start of the change, "fourth time-saving state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the fourth time-saving state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start port 49 is executed. Next, in the fourth time-saving state, a second game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular feature 54. Since the second special symbol is currently being displayed in a variable state, the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1. Also, based on the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49, the opening (operation) of the regular feature 54 ends. That is, the regular feature 54 becomes closed. In this modified example, based on the termination of the operation of the regular feature 54 (once), the termination condition for the fourth time-saving state is met, the fourth time-saving state ends, and the game transitions to the normal state. Next, based on the stop indication of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). Next, at the end of the special game state, the game state "fourth time-saving state" stored at the start of the second special symbol's variation is referenced. In this modified example, if the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is "fourth time-saving state," then at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, the game state control means 250 sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the third time-saving state and transitions to the third time-saving state (for consuming reserved rounds).

[0213] To avoid repetition, the explanation will be simplified, but the game transitions to the third time-saving state, and the second special symbol lottery based on the hold begins. If a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is the "third time-saving state," the game transitions to the fourth time-saving state after the special game state ends. This modified version can be described as a specification that allows for a loop of the fourth time-saving state (1G consecutive wins). In this modified version, the loop rate of the 1G consecutive wins is set by the probability of winning a predetermined normal win symbol (normal win symbol 2) in the normal symbol lottery. In the fourth time-saving state, if a predetermined normal win symbol (let's call it normal win symbol 2) is displayed as a stop, an additional win animation (an animation that notifies the acquisition of a predetermined number of game values) may be executed.

[0214] (Modification 2) In Modification 1, if a predetermined regular winning symbol (regular winning symbol 2) stops and is displayed during the fourth time-saving state, the system does not transition to the normal state (the fourth time-saving state continues) based on the start of operation of the regular mechanism 54 based on that stop display. In this Modification, regardless of which regular winning symbol (regular winning symbol 1 to regular winning symbol 3) stops and is displayed during the fourth time-saving state, the system does not transition to the normal state (the fourth time-saving state continues) based on the start of operation of the regular mechanism 54 based on that stop display.

[0215] In this modified example, as shown in Figure 15, a fifth time-saving state (for consuming held items) is provided as a time-saving state. Since the fifth time-saving state is the same as the first and third time-saving states, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0216] In the fourth time-saving state, based on the stopping display of any regular winning symbol, the regular mechanism 54 starts operating (long opening), but does not transition to the normal state at the start of this operation (the fourth time-saving state continues). In the fourth time-saving state, the first game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular mechanism 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol changes starts, and the game state at the start of the change, "fourth time-saving state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the fourth time-saving state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start opening 49 is executed. Next, in the fourth time-saving state, a second game ball enters (wins) into the second start opening 49 related to the regular feature 54. Since the second special symbol is currently being displayed in a variable state, the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1. Also, based on the entry of the second game ball into the second start opening 49, the opening (operation) of the regular feature 54 ends. That is, the regular feature 54 becomes closed. Furthermore, based on the termination of the operation of the regular feature 54 (once), the termination condition for the fourth time-saving state (4A termination condition) is met, the fourth time-saving state ends, and the game returns to the normal state. Next, based on the stop indication of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). Next, at the end of the special game state, the game state "fourth time-saving state" stored at the start of the second special symbol's variation is referenced. In this modified example, if the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is "fourth time-saving state," then at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, the game state control means 250 sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the fifth time-saving state and transitions to the fifth time-saving state (for consuming reserved rounds).

[0217] If the game transitions to the fifth time-saving state while the second special random value is still pending, the fifth time-saving state begins, and the second special symbol lottery (display of the second special symbol variation) starts by reading the second special random value. At this time, the game state at the start of the special symbol variation is the "fifth time-saving state," and the "fifth time-saving state" is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. Then, based on the display of the variation of one special symbol (second special symbol), the conditions for ending the fifth game are met, the fifth time-saving state ends, and the game transitions to the normal state.

[0218] Then, based on the stop indication of the second special symbol, the special game state is started (the special game is executed). At the end of the special game state, the game state "fifth time-saving state" stored in the predetermined area is referenced. In this modified example, if the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is the "fifth time-saving state," and "winning symbol 3" is won, the game state control means 250 sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the fourth time-saving state at the end of the special game state and transitions to the fourth time-saving state. On the other hand, if the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is the "fifth time-saving state," and "winning symbol 4" is won, the game state control means 250 sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the second time-saving state at the end of the special game state and transitions to the second time-saving state. This modified version is designed so that the fourth time-saving state (1G consecutive wins) can loop. In this modified version, the loop rate of the 1G consecutive wins can be said to be set by the probability of winning a predetermined winning symbol (winning symbol 3) in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery). If a "win" is won in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is the "fifth time-saving state", and "winning symbol 3" is won, an additional win animation (an animation that notifies the acquisition of a predetermined number of game values) may be performed.

[0219] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The gaming machine of this embodiment has basically the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment and the gaming machine of the second embodiment, so the explanation of similar configurations will be omitted or simplified.

[0220] In this embodiment, similar to the second embodiment, a second special random number for which no special symbol lottery has been conducted is stored in the second special reserved storage area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914, up to a maximum of one.

[0221] (Transition of game state) The game state control means 250 (game state setting means), as shown in Figure 16, performs a game state transition control process that transitions the game state between multiple types of game states based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions (transition conditions). The multiple types of game states include a normal state, a time-saving state, and a special game state. In this embodiment, a first time-saving state, a second time-saving state, and a third time-saving state are provided as time-saving states (easy ball entry states). The first time-saving state is the same as the first time-saving state shown in the first embodiment (Figure 12).

[0222] (Second shortened hours) The second time-saving state is substantially the same as the second time-saving state shown in the first embodiment (Figure 12), except that the conditions for ending 2A are different. (Conditions for ending 2A) In this embodiment, in the second time-saving state, the second A termination condition is met when the sum of the number of times the normal mechanism 54 has completed operation based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 1, the number of times the normal mechanism 54 has completed operation based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 2, and the number of times the normal mechanism 54 has completed operation based on the stop display of normal winning symbol 3 reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the second time-saving state) (second A time-saving count). Specifically, when the game state control means 250 transitions to the second time-saving state at the end of the special game state, it sets the second A time-saving count to "2". The game state control means 250 adds 1 to the value of the normal symbol 1 operation end counter 2936 each time the operation of the normal accessory 54 based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 1 ends, adds 1 to the value of the normal symbol 2 operation end counter 2937 each time the operation of the normal accessory 54 based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 2 ends, adds 1 to the value of the normal symbol 3 operation end counter 2938 each time the operation of the normal accessory 54 based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 3 ends, and when the sum of the values of the respective counters reaches "2", determines that the 2A end condition is satisfied, terminates the first time-saving state, and shifts to the normal state.

[0223] (Third time-saving state: for reserved consumption) Since the third time-saving state is a time-saving state similar to the third time-saving state shown in the second embodiment (Fig. 14), duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0224] (Normal winning symbol 1) In the first time-saving state, when a normal symbol lottery is executed and a normal win is won, the normal winning symbol 1 is stop-displayed, and a long opening is obtained, the control is performed as follows. (1) In the first time-saving state, when the normal winning symbol 1 is stop-displayed as a result of the normal symbol lottery (that is, when the long opening pattern of the normal accessory 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of the normal accessory 54 is started based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 1, the 1A end condition is satisfied based on the start of the operation, and the state shifts to the normal state at the start of the operation (at the start of opening). (2) In the normal state, a game ball enters (wins a prize in) the second starting port 49 related to the normal accessory 54. Based on the ball entry, the variable display of the second special symbol is started, and the game state "normal state" at the start of variation is stored in a predetermined area of the main memory 290. That is, the normal state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entry into the second starting port 49 is executed. (3) In the normal state, the opening (operation) of the normal accessory 54 ends. That is, the normal accessory 54 enters the closed state. In the present embodiment, the closing condition of the normal accessory 54 is satisfied based on the entry of one game ball into the second starting port 49, so that the normal accessory 54 is closed. (4) A special game state is started (a special game is executed) based on the stop display of the second special symbol. (5) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in the above (2) is referred to. The game state control means 250, when a "win" is won in the second special symbol lottery and the game state at the start of variation of the second special symbol related to said win is the "normal state", sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state regardless of whether the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4 is won, and shifts (returns) to the first time-saving state.

[0225] When the normal winning symbol 1 is won in the first time-saving state, after the end of one special game state (capable of acquiring 1500 game balls), the game returns to the first time-saving state. For this reason, the win of the normal winning symbol 1 in the first time-saving state may be referred to as a "1500-ball win". The 1500-ball win in the present embodiment is a win that allows one special game state to be executed based on one long opening operation.

[0226] (Normal winning symbol 2) In the case where the normal symbol lottery is executed in the first time-saving state, a normal win is won, the normal winning symbol 2 is stop-displayed, and a long opening is obtained, the control is performed as follows. (A) In the first time-saving state, as a result of the normal symbol lottery, when the normal winning symbol 2 is stop-displayed (that is, when the long opening pattern of the normal accessory 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of the normal accessory 54 is started based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 2, but none of the end conditions are satisfied based on the start of the operation (no shift to the normal state occurs). (B) In the first time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins a prize in) the second start port 49 related to the normal accessory 54. Based on the ball entry, the variable display of the second special symbol is started, and the game state at the start of the variation, "first time-saving state", is stored in a predetermined area of the main memory 290. That is, the first time-saving state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entry into the second start port 49 is executed. (u) In the first time-saving state, the opening (operation) of the normal mechanism 54 ends based on the entry of one game ball into the second start opening 49. That is, the normal mechanism 54 becomes closed. Based on the termination of the operation of the normal mechanism 54, the 1B termination condition is met, the first time-saving state ends and the game transitions to the normal state. (e) Based on the stop display of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). (o) At the end of the special game state, the game state "first time reduction state" stored in (i) above is referenced. The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "first time reduction state", sets the number of time reductions related to the second time reduction state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, and transitions to the second time reduction state.

[0227] (a) In the second time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and one of the regular winning symbols is displayed as a stop (determining the long opening pattern of the regular mechanism 54), but based on the start of operation of the regular mechanism 54 based on the said stop display (1st time), none of the termination conditions are met and the second time-saving state continues (does not transition to the normal state). (b) In the second time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start port 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts to change, and the game state at the start of the change, "second time-saving state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the second time-saving state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start port 49 is executed. (c) In the second time-saving state, the opening (operation) of the normal mechanism 54 ends based on the entry of one game ball into the second start opening 49. That is, the normal mechanism 54 becomes closed. Based on the termination of the operation of the normal mechanism 54 (first time), none of the termination conditions are met, and the second time-saving state continues. (d) In this embodiment, the time required for one variation of the second special symbol in the second time-saving state is controlled to be longer than the time required for two consecutive long openings of the regular mechanism 54. In the second time-saving state, the second regular symbol lottery is performed and one of the regular winning symbols is displayed (the long opening pattern of the regular mechanism 54 is determined), but based on the start of operation of the regular mechanism 54 based on the displayed symbol (second time), none of the termination conditions are met and the second time-saving state continues. (e) In the second time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular feature 54. Since the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable state, the second special random value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1. Also, the opening (operation) of the regular feature 54 ends based on the entry of one game ball into the second start opening 49. That is, the regular feature 54 becomes closed. Based on the termination of the operation of the regular feature 54 (for the second time), the second A termination condition is met, the second time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. (f) The special game state is initiated (the special game is executed) based on the stop indication of the second special symbol. In this embodiment, the transition to the normal state is made based on the fulfillment of the second A termination condition as described above, but it may also be configured to transition to the normal state when the stop indication of the second special symbol is made. (g) At the end of the special game state, the game state "second time-saving state" stored in (b) above is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "second time-saving state," then at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, the game state control means 250 sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the third time-saving state and transitions to the third time-saving state (for consuming reserved rounds).

[0228] If the game transitions to the third time-saving state while the second special random value is still pending, the third time-saving state begins, and the second special symbol lottery (display of the second special symbol variation) starts by reading the second special random value. At this time, the game state at the start of the special symbol variation is the "third time-saving state," and the "third time-saving state" is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. Then, based on the display of the variation of one special symbol (second special symbol), the conditions for ending the third game are met, the third time-saving state ends, and the game transitions to the normal state.

[0229] Then, based on the stop indication of the second special symbol, the special game state is started (the special game is executed). At the end of the special game state, the game state "third time-saving state" stored in the predetermined area is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is the "third time-saving state," then at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is the 3rd or 4th winning symbol, the game state control means 250 sets the number of time-saving rounds related to the first time-saving state and transitions (returns) to the first time-saving state.

[0230] If the regular winning symbol 2 is won in the first time-saving state, after the first special game state (1500 balls can be won) ends, the game transitions to the second time-saving state. In the second time-saving state, regardless of which regular winning symbol is won, the second special game state (1500 balls can be won) begins. After the second special game state ends, the game proceeds through the third time-saving state to begin the third special game state (1500 balls can be won), and after the third special game state ends, the game returns to the first time-saving state. For this reason, winning the regular winning symbol 2 in the first time-saving state may be called a "4500 ball win". In this embodiment, a 4500 ball win is a win that allows for the execution of multiple (total of 3) special game states based on multiple (total of 3) long openings.

[0231] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth 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.

[0232] (Transition of game state) As shown in Figure 17, the game state control means 250 (game state setting means) performs a game state transition control process that transitions the game state between multiple types of game states based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions (transition conditions). The multiple types of game states include a normal state, a time-saving state, and a special game state. In this embodiment, a first time-saving state and a second time-saving state are provided as time-saving states (easy ball entry state).

[0233] In the first embodiment (Figure 12), the timing of the transition to the normal state is made different depending on whether the regular winning symbol 1 is won (i.e., a 1500-ball win) or the regular winning symbol 2 is won (i.e., a 3000-ball win), so that the game state at the start of the special symbol variation is different. Specifically, when the regular winning symbol 1 is won, the game transitions to the normal state when the regular mechanism 54 starts operating, so that the game state at the start of the special symbol variation is the normal state. When the regular winning symbol 2 is won, the game transitions to the normal state when the regular mechanism 54 finishes operating, so that the game state at the start of the special symbol variation is the first time-saving state.

[0234] In this embodiment, by differentiating the number of times the normal symbols stop to satisfy the termination conditions of the first time-saving state, the game state at the start of the special symbol variation is made different depending on whether the normal winning symbol 1 or normal winning symbol 2 is won in the first time-saving state.

[0235] (Conditions for ending the first time-saving state) In the gaming machine of this embodiment, multiple termination conditions, including termination conditions 1A to 1E, are set as termination conditions for the first time-saving state. The gaming state control means 250 terminates the first time-saving state and transitions the gaming state to the normal state based on the fulfillment of one of the termination conditions for the first time-saving state (for example, one of the multiple termination conditions).

[0236] (Conditions for ending 1A) The 1A termination condition is based on the number of times the regular winning symbol 1 is displayed. In this embodiment, the 1A termination condition is met when the number of times the regular winning symbol 1 is displayed during the first time-saving state (number of regular symbol 1 stops) reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the first time-saving state) (1A time-saving count). The main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is provided with a regular symbol 1 stop counter 2941 that counts the number of times the regular symbol 1 stops. The game state control means 250 sets "1" as the number of 1A time-saving rounds when transitioning to the 1st time-saving round at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the regular symbol 1 stop counter 2941 each time the regular winning symbol 1 stop display is executed. When the value of the regular symbol 1 stop counter 2941 reaches "1" based on the execution of the regular winning symbol 1 stop display, the game state control means 250 determines that the 1A termination condition has been met, terminates the 1st time-saving round, and transitions to the normal state.

[0237] (Conditions for ending 1B) The 1B termination condition is based on the number of times the regular winning symbol 2 is displayed. In this embodiment, the 1B termination condition is met when the number of times the regular winning symbol 2 is displayed during the first time-saving state (number of regular symbol 2 stops) reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the first time-saving state) (1B time-saving count). The main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is provided with a regular symbol 2 stop counter 2942 that counts the number of times the regular symbol 2 stops. The game state control means 250 sets the number of 1B time-saving rounds to "10000" when transitioning to the 1st time-saving round at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the regular symbol 2 stop counter 2942 each time the regular winning symbol 2 stop display is executed. When the value of the regular symbol 2 stop counter 2942 reaches "10000" based on the execution of the regular winning symbol 2 stop display, the game state control means 250 determines that the 1B termination condition has been met, terminates the 1st time-saving round, and transitions to the normal state.

[0238] (Conditions for ending the first C) The 1C termination condition is based on the number of times the regular winning symbol 3 is displayed. In this embodiment, the 1C termination condition is met when the number of times the regular winning symbol 3 is displayed during the 1st time-saving state (number of regular symbol 3 stops) reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the 1st time-saving state) (1C time-saving count). The main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is provided with a regular symbol 3 stop counter 2943 that counts the number of times the regular symbol 2 stops. The game state control means 250 sets "130" as the number of times the regular symbol 3 stops when transitioning to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the regular symbol 3 stop counter 2943 each time the regular winning symbol 3 stop display is executed. When the value of the regular symbol 3 stop counter 2943 reaches "130" based on the execution of the regular winning symbol 3 stop display, the game state control means 250 determines that the first C termination condition has been met, terminates the first time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0239] (Conditions for ending the first stage) The 1D termination condition is based on the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state. In this embodiment, the 1D termination condition is met when the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state during the 1st time-saving state reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (start of the 1st time-saving state) (1D time-saving count). Here, "the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state during the 1st time-saving state" is the sum of the number of times the 1st special symbols are displayed and the number of times the 2nd special symbols are displayed during the 1st time-saving state. The game state control means 250 sets the number of 1D time reductions to "5" when transitioning to the 1st time reduction state at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the 1st special symbol counter 2934 or the 2nd special symbol counter 2935 each time a variation display of a special symbol (1st special symbol or 2nd special symbol) is executed. Then, based on the execution of the variation display of the special symbols, when the sum of the values ​​of the 1st special symbol counter 2934 and the 2nd special symbol counter 2935 reaches "5", the game state control means 250 determines that the 1D termination condition has been met, terminates the 1st time reduction state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0240] (1E termination condition) The 1E termination condition is a termination condition based on the number of stop displays of the second special symbol. In the present embodiment, the 1E termination condition is satisfied when the number of stop displays of the second special symbol executed in the first time-saving state reaches the number of times (1E time-saving count) set at the end of the special game state (at the start of the first time-saving state). The game state control means 250 sets "1" as the 1E time-saving count when shifting to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the second special symbol counter 2935 each time a stop display of the second special symbol is executed. Then, when the value of the second special symbol counter 2935 reaches "1" based on the execution of the stop display of the second special symbol, the game state control means 250 determines that the 1E termination condition is satisfied, terminates the first time-saving state, and shifts to the normal state.

[0241] (Termination condition for the second time-saving state) In the game machine of the present embodiment, a plurality of termination conditions including a 2A termination condition and a 2B termination condition are set as the termination conditions for the second time-saving state. The game state control means 250 terminates the second time-saving state and shifts the game state to the normal state based on the satisfaction of the termination condition for the second time-saving state (for example, one of the plurality of termination conditions).

[0242] (2A termination condition) The 2A termination condition is a condition based on the number of stop displays of the normal winning symbol. In the present embodiment, the 2A termination condition is satisfied when the sum of the number of stop displays of the normal winning symbol 1 executed in the first time-saving state (normal symbol 1 stop count), the number of stop displays of the normal winning symbol 2 executed in the first time-saving state (normal symbol 2 stop count), and the number of stop displays of the normal winning symbol 3 executed in the first time-saving state (normal symbol 3 stop count) reaches the number of times (2A time-saving count) set at the end of the special game state (at the start of the first time-saving state). The game state control means 250 sets the number of 2A time-saving rounds to "1" when transitioning to the 1 time-saving round at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of either the normal symbol 1 stop counter 2941, the normal symbol 2 stop counter 2942, or the normal symbol 3 stop counter 2943 each time the normal winning symbol stop display is executed. When the sum of the values ​​of each counter reaches "1" based on the execution of the normal winning symbol stop display, the game state control means 250 determines that the 2A termination condition has been met, terminates the 2 time-saving round, and transitions to the normal state.

[0243] (Conditions for ending 2B) The 2B termination condition is based on the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state. In this embodiment, the 2B termination condition is met when the number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state during the second time-saving state reaches the number set at the end of the special game state (the start of the second time-saving state) (the 2B time-saving count). The "number of times the special symbols are displayed in a variation state during the second time-saving state" is the sum of the number of times the first special symbols are displayed and the number of times the second special symbols are displayed during the second time-saving state. The game state control means 250 sets the number of 2B time-saving rounds to "5" when transitioning to the 2nd time-saving state at the end of the special game state. The game state control means 250 adds "1" to the value of the 1st special symbol counter 2934 or the 2nd special symbol counter 2935 each time a variation display of a special symbol (1st special symbol or 2nd special symbol) is executed. Then, based on the execution of the variation display of the special symbols, when the sum of the values ​​of each counter reaches "5", the game state control means 250 determines that the 2B termination condition has been met, terminates the 2nd time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state.

[0244] (Regular winning symbol 1) If, during the first time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, and regular win symbol 1 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained, the machine will be controlled as follows. (1) In the first time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 1 is displayed (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 will start based on that display. Also, based on the display of regular winning symbol 1 once, the 1A termination condition is met, the first time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. (2) In the normal state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start port 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts to change, and the game state at the start of the change, "normal state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the normal state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start port 49 is performed. (3) In the normal state, the opening (operation) of the ordinary mechanism 54 ends. That is, the ordinary mechanism 54 becomes closed. In this embodiment, the closing condition of the ordinary mechanism 54 is met based on the entry of one game ball into the second start opening 49, and the operation of the ordinary mechanism 54 ends. (4) Based on the stopping display of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). (5) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in (2) above is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "normal state," the game state control means 250 sets the number of time reductions related to the first time reduction state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the win is for the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4, and transitions to the first time reduction state.

[0245] (Regular winning symbol 2) If, during the first time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, and regular win symbol 2 stops and is displayed, resulting in a long opening, the machine will be controlled as follows. (a) In the first time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 2 stops (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 will start based on that stop display. In addition, based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 2 once, none of the termination conditions will be met and the first time-saving state will continue. (i) In the first time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start port 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts to change, and the game state at the start of the change, "first time-saving state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the first time-saving state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start port 49 is executed. (u) In the first time-saving state, the opening (operation) of the normal mechanism 54 ends. That is, the normal mechanism 54 becomes closed. (e) Based on the stop indication of the second special symbol, the special game state is started (the special game is executed). Based on the stop indication of the second special symbol, the conditions for ending the first E are met, the first time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. (o) At the end of the special game state, the game state "first time reduction state" stored in (i) above is referenced. The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "first time reduction state", sets the number of time reductions related to the second time reduction state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, and transitions to the second time reduction state.

[0246] In this embodiment, When a regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state (first time reduction state) and the first regular winning symbol (regular winning symbol 1) is determined, the normal game state (normal state) is set based on the stop display of the first regular winning symbol. If a regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the second regular winning symbol is determined, the normal game state is set based on the stop display of the special symbol related to the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start gate.

[0247] In this embodiment, although (e) above states that the game transitions to the normal state based on the stop indication of the second special symbol, in (i) above, the game may be configured such that a process to store the "first game state" is executed when the second special symbol starts to change based on a ball entering the game, and then a process to transition to the normal state is executed. In other words, the game may be configured to transition to the normal state when the second special symbol starts to change.

[0248] In the first time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 3 stops (i.e., the short opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (short opening) of regular mechanism 54 will start based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 3. However, based on this single stop display, none of the termination conditions will be met, and the first time-saving state will continue. If the first C termination condition is met based on this stop display, the first time-saving state will end, and the game will return to the normal state.

[0249] If, during the second time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, and any regular win symbol stops and is displayed, resulting in a long opening, the control is performed as follows. Note that the control is the same regardless of which regular win symbol is displayed, so the example shown is when regular win symbol 1 is displayed. (A) In the second time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 1 is displayed (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 will start based on that display. Also, based on one such display, the second A termination condition is met, the second time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. (B) In the normal state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol starts to change, and the game state at the start of the change, "normal state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. In other words, the normal state is set at the time when the special symbol lottery based on the ball entering the second start opening 49 is performed. (C) In the normal state, the opening (operation) of the normal mechanism 54 ends. That is, the normal mechanism 54 becomes closed. (D) Based on the stopping display of the second special symbol, the special game state is initiated (the special game is executed). (E) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in (B) above is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is "normal state," then at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, the game state control means 250 sets the number of time reductions related to the first time reduction state and transitions to the first time reduction state.

[0250] In this embodiment, the termination condition for the first time-saving state is set to 1 stop display for regular winning symbol 1 and 10,000 stop display for regular winning symbol 2. When regular winning symbol 1 is won, the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation is set to the normal state (low reference). When regular winning symbol 2 is won, the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation is set to the first time-saving state (high reference). When the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation is the first time-saving state, it is possible to transition to the second time-saving state (long opening winning probability 1 / 1).

[0251] Here, we consider a case where, if the regular winning symbol 1 is won, the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation is set to the first time-saving state (high reference), and if the regular winning symbol 2 is won, the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation is set to the normal state (low reference). For example, suppose the number of 1A time-saving rounds is "10000" and the number of 1B time-saving rounds is "1". The player can look at the regular symbol display section 72 (Figure 4) of the state display section 70 to understand the result of the regular symbol lottery (stop display pattern). Therefore, when the regular winning symbol 1 is displayed as the stop, the player should not enter the regular mechanism 54 into the second start opening 49, even if the regular mechanism 54 is opened for a long time based on the stop display, taking into account that if a game ball is entered into the second start opening 49, it will result in a win in the first time-saving state, and that the first time-saving state will continue even if no game ball is entered. Furthermore, if the regular winning symbol 2 stops and is displayed, a win will occur in the normal state if the game ball is entered into the second start opening 49 during the long opening of the regular mechanism 54 based on that stop display. This may create a strategy to play the game by entering the game ball. In other words, there is a possibility that a strategy to play the game will occur by choosing a more advantageous win (a 3000-ball win). As in this embodiment, when the regular winning symbol 1 is selected, the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation becomes the normal state (low reference), and when the regular winning symbol 2 is selected, the game state at the start of the special symbol's variation becomes the first time-saving state (high reference). Since the first time-saving state ends (transitions to the normal state) based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 1, if the player does not put the game ball into the second start opening 49 during the long opening of the regular mechanism 54 based on the stop display and obtain the opportunity to draw the second special symbol, the player will ultimately lose out. Therefore, in the first time-saving state, it is possible to prevent the development of a strategy where, when regular winning symbol 1 is selected, the player does not put the game ball into the regular mechanism 54 during the long opening, and when regular winning symbol 2 is selected, the player puts the game ball into the regular mechanism 54 during the long opening.

[0252] In this embodiment, if the regular winning symbol 1 is won in the first time-saving state, the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win becomes the "normal state." Therefore, the number of time-saving rounds related to the first time-saving state is set at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions (returns) to the first time-saving state. However, the game is not limited to this, and may be configured to transition to the normal state (no time-saving state is granted) at the end of the special game state.

[0253] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a fifth 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.

[0254] (Transition of game state) As shown in Figure 18, the game state control means 250 (game state setting means) performs a game state transition control process that transitions the game state between multiple types of game states based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions (transition conditions). The multiple types of game states include a normal state, a time-saving state, and a special game state. In this embodiment, a first time-saving state and a second time-saving state are provided as time-saving states (easy ball entry state).

[0255] (Conditions for ending the first time-saving state) In the gaming machine of this embodiment, multiple termination conditions are set as termination conditions for the first time-saving state, including termination condition 1A and termination condition 1B. The gaming state control means 250 terminates the first time-saving state and transitions the gaming state to the normal state based on the fulfillment of one of the termination conditions for the first time-saving state (for example, one of the multiple termination conditions).

[0256] In this embodiment, during the time-saving state (at least the first time-saving state), the post-closing waiting time is set based on the completion of the operation of the normal mechanism 54 (completion of the displacement of the movable member to a state where balls can easily enter). The post-closing waiting time (normal operation completion demonstration) is the waiting time until the normal winning symbol becomes changeable again. In addition, in this embodiment, the length of the set post-closing waiting time differs depending on the type of normal winning symbol. The time when the post-closing waiting time has elapsed may also be referred to as the completion of the operation of the normal mechanism 54.

[0257] (Conditions for ending 1A) The game state control means 250 sets a first post-closing waiting time of "approximately 0.5 seconds" related to the first A termination condition when transitioning to the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state. In the first time-saving state, the game state control means 250 determines whether the first post-closing waiting time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed when the operation (long opening) of the normal mechanism 54 starts based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 1 and the operation of the normal mechanism 54 ends. Then, when the first post-closing waiting time has elapsed, it determines that the first A termination condition has been met and terminates the first time-saving state. In other words, the first time-saving state is terminated when the first post-closing waiting time has elapsed and the game transitions to the normal state.

[0258] (Conditions for ending 1B) The game state control means 250 sets a second post-closing waiting time of "approximately 2 seconds" related to the 1B termination condition when transitioning to the 1st time-saving state at the end of the special game state. In the 1st time-saving state, the game state control means 250 determines whether the second post-closing waiting time (2 seconds) has elapsed when the operation (long opening) of the normal mechanism 54 starts based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 2 and the operation of the normal mechanism 54 ends. Then, when the second post-closing waiting time has elapsed, it determines that the 1B termination condition has been met and terminates the 1st time-saving state. In other words, the 1st time-saving state is terminated when the second post-closing waiting time has elapsed and the game transitions to the normal state. In this embodiment, the second post-closing waiting time is longer than the first post-closing waiting time.

[0259] (Conditions for ending the second shortened time state) In the gaming machine of this embodiment, multiple termination conditions are set as termination conditions for the second time-saving state, including termination condition 2A, termination condition 2B, and termination condition 2C. The gaming state control means 250 terminates the second time-saving state and transitions the gaming state to the normal state based on the fulfillment of one of the termination conditions for the second time-saving state (for example, one of the multiple termination conditions).

[0260] (Conditions for ending 2A) The game state control means 250 sets a first post-closing waiting time of "approximately 0.5 seconds" related to the 2A termination condition when transitioning to the second time-saving state at the end of the special game state. In the second time-saving state, the game state control means 250 determines whether the first post-closing waiting time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed when the operation (long opening) of the normal mechanism 54 starts based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 1 and the operation of the normal mechanism 54 has finished. Then, when the first post-closing waiting time has elapsed, it determines that the 2A termination condition has been met and terminates the second time-saving state. In other words, the second time-saving state is terminated when the first post-closing waiting time has elapsed and the game transitions to the normal state.

[0261] (Conditions for ending 2B) The game state control means 250 sets a second post-closing waiting time of "approximately 2 seconds" related to the second B termination condition when transitioning to the second time-saving state at the end of the special game state. In the second time-saving state, the game state control means 250 determines whether the second post-closing waiting time (2 seconds) has elapsed when the operation (long opening) of the normal mechanism 54 starts based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 2 and the operation of the normal mechanism 54 ends. Then, when the second post-closing waiting time has elapsed, it determines that the second B termination condition has been met and terminates the second time-saving state. In other words, the second time-saving state is terminated when the second post-closing waiting time has elapsed and the game transitions to the normal state.

[0262] (Conditions for ending 2C) The game state control means 250 sets a third post-closing waiting time of "approximately 0.3 seconds" related to the second C termination condition when transitioning to the second time-saving state at the end of the special game state. In the second time-saving state, the game state control means 250 determines whether the third post-closing waiting time (0.3 seconds) has elapsed when the operation (long opening) of the normal mechanism 54 starts based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 3 and the operation of the normal mechanism 54 has finished. Then, when the third post-closing waiting time has elapsed, it determines that the second C termination condition has been met and terminates the second time-saving state. In other words, the second time-saving state is terminated when the third post-closing waiting time has elapsed and the game transitions to the normal state.

[0263] (Transition of game state) In this embodiment, the game state at the end of the special symbol variation (winning variation) is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. The game state control means 250 transitions the game state to a special game state based on the winning of a "win" (predetermined result: minor win or major win) in the special symbol lottery, but can determine (change) which game state to transition to after the special game state ends, according to the game state (and winning symbol) stored in the predetermined area. In other words, the game state after the special game state ends can be made different (switched) according to the game state stored in the predetermined area. In other words, the game state control means 250 can make the game state after the execution of the special game (special game state) different according to the game state set at the time when the result of the special symbol lottery is displayed (at the end of variation, at the time of stop display).

[0264] (First special design drawing) The game state control means 250 transitions the game state to a special game state (including via a minor win game state) based on the fact that a "win" ("winning symbol 1" or "winning symbol 2") has been won in the first special symbol lottery, and after the special game state ends, transitions the game state to either the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state. If a "win" is won in the first special symbol lottery, the game state control means 250 decides whether to transition to the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state as follows, depending on the game state at the end of the variation of the first special symbol related to the win and the winning symbol (winning symbol).

[0265] The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the first special symbol lottery, and the game state at the end of the variation of the first special symbol related to that win is the "normal state", and if a "winning symbol 2" is achieved, sets the termination conditions for the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state and transitions to the first time-saving state.

[0266] The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the first special symbol lottery, and the game state at the end of the variation of the first special symbol related to the win is the "normal state", and if "winning symbol 1" is achieved, sets the termination conditions for the second time-saving state at the end of the special game state and transitions to the second time-saving state.

[0267] (Second special design drawing) The game state control means 250 transitions the game state to a special game state (including via a minor win game state) based on the winning of a "win" ("winning symbol 3" or "winning symbol 4") in the second special symbol lottery, and transitions the game state to a first time-saving state or a second time-saving state after the special game state ends. In this embodiment, when a "win" is obtained in the second special symbol lottery, the game state at the end of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win (winning variation) is controlled to be either a normal state or a time-saving state. The following will be explained in detail using Figures 19 and 20.

[0268] Figure 19(a) shows the case where, in the first time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, regular win symbol 1 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained. (1) In the first time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 1 is displayed (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 is started based on the display of regular winning symbol 1. (2) In the first time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular prize 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol changes. In this embodiment, the change time of the second special symbol is set to 1 second. Also in this embodiment, based on the entry of one (prescribed number of balls) game ball into the second start opening 49, the closing condition of the regular prize 54 is met, the operation of the regular prize 54 ends (the regular prize 54 closes), and the measurement of the first post-closing waiting time (0.5 seconds) begins. If the regular winning symbol 1 stops and is displayed in the first time-saving state, it is determined whether or not the first post-closing waiting time has elapsed. (3) Based on the elapsed time of the first closing (0.5 seconds), the condition for ending the first A is met, the first time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. If the normal winning symbol 1 stops, the time of the first closing (waiting time) elapses before the display of the second special symbol variation ends (the time of the first closing (waiting time) is shorter than the variation time of the second special symbol). In other words, the time of the first closing (waiting time) elapses is earlier than the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start opening 49 is displayed in the first time-saving state. (4) Based on the end of the variation of the second special symbol (stop display), the special game state is started (the special game is executed). Also, the game state at the end of the variation, "normal state", is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. The normal state is set when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start port 49 is displayed. (5) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in (4) above is referenced. If the player wins a "win" in the second special symbol lottery and the game state at the end of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "normal state", the game state control means 250 sets the termination conditions for the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the player wins the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4, and transitions to the first time-saving state.

[0269] Furthermore, the timing at which the game state control means 250 refers to the game state to determine the game state after the special game state ends (which time-saving state to transition to) can be any timing between the time the special symbols stop moving and the time the special game state ends.

[0270] Figure 19(b) shows the case where, in the first time-saving state, a normal symbol lottery is performed and a normal win is achieved, normal win symbol 2 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained. (a) In the first time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 2 stops (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 will start based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 2. (i) In the first time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular mechanism 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol changes (1 second). Also, based on this ball entry, the operation of the regular mechanism 54 ends (the regular mechanism 54 closes), and the measurement of the second post-closure waiting time (2 seconds) begins. If the regular winning symbol 2 stops and is displayed in the first time-saving state, it is determined whether or not the second post-closure waiting time has elapsed. (u) Based on the end of the variation (stop display) of the second special symbol, a special game state is started (the special game is executed). Also, the game state at the end of the variation, "first time reduction state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. The first time reduction state is set when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start port 49 is displayed. (e) Based on the elapsed time after the second closing (2 seconds), the condition for ending the first B is met, the first time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. If the regular winning symbol 2 stops, the time after the second closing waiting period elapses after the display of the second special symbol variation has finished (the time after the second closing waiting period is longer than the variation time of the second special symbol). In other words, the time after the second closing waiting period elapses is later than the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start opening 49 is displayed in the first time-saving state. (o) At the end of the special game state, the game state "first time-saving state" stored in (u) above is referenced. The game state control means 250, when a "win" is achieved in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the end of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "first time-saving state", sets the termination conditions for the second time-saving state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol is 3 or 4, and transitions to the second time-saving state.

[0271] Although not shown in the diagram, in the first time-saving state, if the result of the normal symbol lottery is that the normal winning symbol 3 stops (i.e., the short opening pattern of the normal mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (short opening) of the normal mechanism 54 starts based on the stop display of the normal winning symbol 3. The first time-saving state continues unless the 1st E termination condition (130 time-saving rounds in the 1st E shown in Figure 12) is met based on the completion of that operation. If the 1st E termination condition is met based on the completion of the said operation, the first time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state.

[0272] Figure 20(a) shows the case where, in the second time-saving state, a normal symbol lottery is performed and a normal win is achieved, normal win symbol 1 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained. (A) In the second time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 1 stops (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 is started based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 1. (B) In the second time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular mechanism 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol changes (1 second). Also, based on this ball entry, the operation of the regular mechanism 54 ends (the regular mechanism 54 closes), and the measurement of the first post-closure waiting time (0.5 seconds) begins. If the regular winning symbol 1 stops and is displayed in the second time-saving state, it is determined whether or not the first post-closure waiting time has elapsed. (C) Based on the elapsed waiting time (0.5 seconds) after the first closing, the condition for ending 2A is met, the second time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. If the normal winning symbol 1 stops, the waiting time after the first closing will have elapsed before the display of the second special symbol ends. (D) Based on the end of the variation (stop display) of the second special symbol, the special game state is started (the special game is executed). Also, the game state at the end of the variation, "normal state", is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. The normal state is set when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start port 49 is displayed. (E) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in (D) above is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the end of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is "normal state," the game state control means 250 sets the termination conditions for the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4 is won, and transitions to the first time-saving state.

[0273] Figure 20(b) shows the case where, in the second time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, regular win symbol 2 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained. (a) In the second time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 2 stops (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 is started based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 2. (i) In the second time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular mechanism 54. Based on this ball entry, the display of the second special symbol changes (1 second). Also, based on this ball entry, the operation of the regular mechanism 54 ends (the regular mechanism 54 closes), and the measurement of the second post-closure waiting time (2 seconds) begins. If the regular winning symbol 2 stops and is displayed in the second time-saving state, it is determined whether or not the second post-closure waiting time has elapsed. (c) A special game state is initiated (a special game is played) based on the end of the variation (stop display) of the second special symbol. In addition, the game state at the end of the variation, "second time-saving state," is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. The second time-saving state is set when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start port 49 is displayed. (e) Based on the elapsed waiting time (2 seconds) after the second closure, the conditions for ending the second B are met, the second time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. If the regular winning symbol 2 stops, the waiting time after the second closure elapses after the display of the second special symbol's variation ends. (e) At the end of the special game state, the game state "second time-saving state" stored in (c) above is referenced. If the player wins a "win" in the second special symbol lottery, and the game state at the start of the variation of the second special symbol related to the win is "second time-saving state", the game state control means 250 sets the termination conditions for the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the player wins the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4, and transitions to the first time-saving state.

[0274] Figure 20(c) shows the case where, in the second time-saving state, a regular symbol lottery is performed and a regular win is achieved, regular win symbol 3 stops and is displayed, and a long opening is obtained. (A) In the second time-saving state, if the result of the regular symbol lottery is that regular winning symbol 3 stops (i.e., the long opening pattern of regular mechanism 54 is determined), the operation (long opening) of regular mechanism 54 will start based on the stop display of regular winning symbol 3. (B) In the second time-saving state, a game ball enters (wins) the second start opening 49 related to the regular mechanism 54. Based on this ball entry, the second special symbol's variation display (1 second) begins. Also, based on this ball entry, the operation of the regular mechanism 54 ends (the regular mechanism 54 closes), and the measurement of the third post-closure waiting time (0.3 seconds) begins. If the regular winning symbol 3 stops and is displayed in the second time-saving state, it is determined whether or not the third post-closure waiting time has elapsed. (C) Based on the elapsed waiting time (0.3 seconds) after the third closing, the second C termination condition is met, the second time-saving state ends and the game returns to the normal state. If the normal winning symbol 3 stops, the waiting time after the third closing will elapse before the display of the second special symbol ends. (D) Based on the end of the variation (stop display) of the second special symbol, the special game state is started (the special game is executed). Also, the game state at the end of the variation, "normal state", is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290. The normal state is set when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start port 49 is displayed. (E) At the end of the special game state, the game state "normal state" stored in (D) above is referenced. If the second special symbol lottery results in a "win," and the game state at the end of the variation of the second special symbol related to that win is "normal state," the game state control means 250 sets the termination conditions for the first time-saving state at the end of the special game state, regardless of whether the winning symbol 3 or the winning symbol 4 is won, and transitions to the first time-saving state.

[0275] In this embodiment, the timing for ending the first time-saving state (the timing for transitioning to the normal state) differs depending on whether the normal winning symbol 1 or normal winning symbol 2 is displayed during the first time-saving state. Therefore, the game state at the end of the special symbol (second special symbol) variation (winning variation) can be made different depending on whether the normal winning symbol 1 or normal winning symbol 2 is displayed during the first time-saving state. This allows the game to determine which game state to transition to after the special game state ends by referring to the game state at the end of the special symbol (second special symbol) variation, and it is possible to switch between transitioning to the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state depending on the game state. In this embodiment, winning a predetermined long-opening symbol (normal winning symbol 2) during the first time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than winning any other long-opening symbol (normal winning symbol 1). The former involves two special game modes (where 3000 balls can be won) before returning to the first time-saving mode, while the latter involves one special game mode (where 1500 balls can be won) before returning to the first time-saving mode.

[0276] In this embodiment, the variation time of the second special symbol is fixed at 1 second, but the variation time of the second special symbol may be made variable within a range longer than the first post-closing waiting time (0.5 seconds) and shorter than the second post-closing waiting time (2 seconds). Furthermore, if the second post-closing waiting time is made even longer and the normal winning symbol 2 is displayed as stopped, the transition to the normal state may be made not when the second post-closing waiting time has elapsed, but when the variation of the second special symbol has finished (however, in that case, it is necessary to perform a process to store the game state in a predetermined area of ​​the main memory 290 when the variation of the second special symbol has finished before transitioning to the normal state). If it is possible to set a short or long variation time for the variation time of the second special symbol, it is possible to diversify the effects related to the variation of the second special symbol.

[0277] 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 first start port (first start port 46) is located in a predetermined area within the game area, A second start port (second start port 49) is located in a region different from the predetermined region in the game area, A movable member (ordinary mechanism 54) that changes the ease with which the ball enters the second starting opening, An operating opening (passage gate 48 or operating prize opening) that triggers the execution of a normal pattern lottery, which involves displacing the aforementioned movable member to a state where balls can easily enter, In a special game that is performed when the result of a special symbol lottery, which is performed when a ball enters the first or second starting opening, is a predetermined result, there is a large prize opening (large prize opening 50) that makes it easy for the ball to enter, The system includes a game state setting means (game state control means 250) that can set game states including a ball-entry easy state in which the movable member is relatively easy to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, and a normal game state in which the movable member is relatively difficult to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, In the aforementioned regular winning pattern drawing, at least a first regular winning pattern and a second regular winning pattern are provided as regular winning patterns that can result in displacing the movable member to a state that facilitates ball entry. The ball entry easy state can be set after the special game is performed based on the predetermined result obtained in the special symbol lottery, and the ball entry easy state includes multiple types of ball entry easy states, including a first specific ball entry easy state. In at least the first specific ball-entry-easy state among the multiple types of ball-entry-easy states, a first post-closure waiting time based on the completion of the displacement of the movable member to the ball-entry-easy state based on the execution of the normal symbol lottery and the determination of the first normal winning symbol, and a second post-closure waiting time based on the completion of the displacement of the movable member to the ball-entry-easy state based on the execution of the normal symbol lottery and the determination of the second normal winning symbol, can be set. The second post-closure waiting time is longer than the first post-closure waiting time. The normal game state is set when the first waiting time after closure and the second waiting time after closure have elapsed. When the first waiting time after closing has elapsed, earlier than the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second starting gate is displayed in the first specific ball entry easy state, When the second waiting time after closing has elapsed, it is later than the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second starting gate is displayed in the first specific ball entry easy state. The game state setting means can set different game states after the execution of the special game, depending on the game state set at the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start port is displayed.

[0278] By making the game state set after the execution of the special game different depending on which game state is set at the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second starting gate is displayed, it is possible to diversify the methods for transitioning game states and provide new gameplay. This can enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0279] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The aforementioned multiple types of ball entry easy states include a second specific ball entry easy state in which the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start opening is performed and the predetermined result is obtained, and it is substantially determined that the execution of the special game is decided. The aforementioned game state setting means is If the normal game state is set at the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second starting port is displayed, the game state after the execution of the special game will be set to the first specific ball entry easy state. If the first specific ball entry easy state is set at the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second starting gate is displayed, the game state after the execution of the special game will be set to the second specific ball entry easy state.

[0280] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, It is equipped with a performance control means that controls the execution of the performance, The aforementioned performance control means is If information is obtained that the second regular winning symbol will be determined as a result of the regular symbol lottery in the first specific ball entry easy state, a pre-show indicating that the second regular winning symbol will be determined can be performed before the regular symbol lottery based on said information is performed.

[0281] If the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the first regular winning symbol is determined, the normal game state is set at the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start gate is displayed, and the game transitions to the first specific ball entry easy state after the special game is performed. In other words, one special game is performed. If the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific easy ball entry state and the second regular winning symbol is determined, the first specific easy ball entry state is set at the time when the result of the special symbol lottery based on ball entry into the second start gate is displayed, and the game transitions to the second specific easy ball entry state after the special game is played. Then, in the second specific easy ball entry state, the execution of the special game is decided. For this reason, the special game is played multiple times (a total of two times, spanning the second specific easy ball entry state). Therefore, the pre-announcement that suggests the determination of the second regular winning symbol is a pre-announcement that suggests multiple special games will be played. By informing players that multiple special games may be played before the regular symbol lottery is performed, it is possible to create anticipation and excitement in the players. This can enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0282] In the first to fifth embodiments, the system is configured such that when a specific regular winning symbol that results in a long opening occurs in a relatively unfavorable time-saving state (lower regular symbol ST), the regular electric mechanism 54 is activated, and when a ball enters the second start port 49, the system can transition to the most advantageous time-saving state for the player (a state where the probability of a long opening of the regular symbol is 1 / 1 and a win is practically guaranteed) after a special game that occurs based on the variation of the second special symbol. However, it may also be configured to transition to a more advantageous time-saving state, the higher-level regular symbol ST (a time-saving state in which it is easier to win a long opening of the regular symbol than in the lower-level regular symbol ST, and in which there is a possibility that the ST state will end without obtaining a long opening of the regular symbol (a win)).

[0283] However, if the player wins a specific regular winning symbol in a relatively unfavorable time-saving state, and the relatively favorable time-saving state that follows a special game based on the variation of the second special symbol is a higher-level regular symbol ST where there is a possibility (e.g., 1% or more) of not winning, it is preferable to avoid using high-profit pre-presentations that suggest that a "win" can be obtained in the higher-level regular symbol ST. For example, instead of suggesting two wins with "3000", it is better to limit the suggestion to something like "1500+" or "If you win, it's a higher level".

[0284] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and any component can be modified or omitted without departing from the spirit of the invention. In other words, the configuration of the gaming machine is not limited to that of the embodiments described above. Also, within the scope of the invention, any combination of components of each embodiment is possible. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0285] 4. Gaming Area 46 First Starter Port 48 Passage Gate (Operation Gate) 49 Second Starter Port 50 Grand Prize Winners 54. Standard parts (movable components) 250 Game state control means (game state setting means)

Claims

[Claim 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 first start port is located in a predetermined area within the game area, A second start port is located in a region different from the predetermined region in the game area, A movable member that changes the ease with which the ball enters the second starting port, An operating port which serves as a trigger for executing a normal pattern lottery, relating to whether or not to displace the aforementioned movable member to a state that facilitates ball entry, In a special game that is performed when the result of a special symbol lottery, which is performed when a ball enters the first or second starting opening, is a predetermined result, there is a large prize opening that makes it easy for the ball to enter, The system includes a game state setting means that can set game states including a ball-entry easy state in which the movable member is relatively easy to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, and a normal game state in which the movable member is relatively difficult to enter based on the execution of the regular symbol lottery, In the aforementioned regular winning pattern drawing, at least a first regular winning pattern and a second regular winning pattern are provided as regular winning patterns that can result in displacing the movable member to a state that facilitates ball entry. The ball entry easy state can be set after the special game is performed based on the predetermined result obtained in the special symbol lottery, and the ball entry easy state includes multiple types of ball entry easy states, including a first specific ball entry easy state. When the normal symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the first normal winning symbol is determined, the movable member is displaced to facilitate ball entry into the second start opening, and the normal game state is controlled to be set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening. When the regular symbol lottery is performed in the first specific ball entry easy state and the second regular winning symbol is determined, the movable member is displaced to facilitate ball entry into the second start opening, and the first specific ball entry easy state is maintained when the special symbol lottery is performed based on the ball entering the second start opening. The game state setting means can set different game states after the execution of the special game, depending on the game state set at the time when the special symbol lottery is performed based on balls entering the second start port.

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