JP7464635B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that can perform variable display and can be controlled to provide an advantageous state for the player.

In gaming machines such as pachinko machines, for example, there is a disclosure that displays decorative symbols including characters in a frozen state, and creates effects using the frozen decorative symbols (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2019-165858 A

In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, there was room for improvement in order to increase the entertainment value of the effects produced by the decorative symbols that were stopped and displayed.

The purpose of this invention is to improve the gaming machine in terms of the effects created by the decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed, thereby increasing the interest.

A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and control the game to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A display means;
a performance execution means, the display means being capable of displaying a variable display of decoration identification information corresponding to the variable display of the special identification information,
The ornament identification information includes character information,
The performance execution means includes:
As the performance suggesting that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state, a first performance and a second performance having a higher expectation of being controlled to the advantageous state than the first performance can be executed;
A first pattern of pre-stage performance can be executed as a pre-stage performance before either the first performance or the second performance is executed,
A second pattern of pre-stage performance can be executed as a pre-stage performance before either the first performance or the second performance is executed,
the first pattern is executed when the combination of the decoration identification information becomes a reach state, and the character information indicates that the first effect or the second effect will be executed;
the second pattern is executed when the combination of the decoration identification information does not result in the reach mode, and is a pattern that suggests that the first effect or the second effect will be executed by the character information;
The rate at which the second performance is executed after the first pattern of the pre-performance is executed is higher than the rate at which the second performance is executed after the first pattern of the pre-performance is executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, 48, etc. According to this feature, by executing different effects depending on the type of decoration identification information, it is possible to draw attention to which decoration identification information is displayed in a specific combination, and by notifying that the character of that decoration identification information will also execute a preview effect, it is possible to draw further attention. Furthermore, by changing the execution rate of the preview effect when the combination is in a reach state and when the combination is not in a reach state, it is possible to draw attention to a specific combination.

The present invention may have only the invention-specific matters described in the claims of the present invention, or may have the invention-specific matters described in the claims of the present invention as well as configurations other than the invention-specific matters.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the pachinko game machine according to this embodiment. 1 is a configuration diagram showing various control boards etc. installed in a pachinko gaming machine. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a game control main process. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt process for game control. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a performance control main process. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a performance control process. 1 is a configuration diagram showing various control boards etc. installed in a pachinko gaming machine. A diagram showing the numerical range of a jackpot and the numerical range of a miss with time-saving in the variable display of the first special chart in normal state or time-saving state. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a time-saving count determination table. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the names and contents of each main control command. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the game control main processing. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing normal processing of special symbols. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing normal processing of special symbols. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the special pattern stopping process. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the special pattern stopping process. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a variable display start setting process. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the preview performance determination process. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a read-ahead notice setting process. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a variable display start setting process. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the pre-reading notice execution setting process. FIG. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the types of decorative patterns. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the types of decorative patterns. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of fluctuations in this embodiment. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of fluctuations in this embodiment. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of fluctuations in this embodiment. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of fluctuations in this embodiment. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of fluctuations in this embodiment. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of fluctuations in this embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of read-ahead fluctuation in the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of power spot CHANCE in this embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of power spot CHANCE in this embodiment. This is an explanatory diagram showing the special ability presentation of the character "Nana" (decorative pattern "1"). This is an explanatory diagram showing the special ability presentation of the character "Nana" (decorative pattern "1"). An explanatory diagram showing the special ability presentation of the character "Mumu" (decorative pattern "3"). An explanatory diagram showing the special ability presentation of the character "Mumu" (decorative pattern "3"). This is an explanatory diagram showing the special ability presentation of the character "Jam" (decorative pattern "5"). This is an explanatory diagram showing the special ability presentation of the character "Jam" (decorative pattern "5"). This is an explanatory diagram showing the special ability effects of the characters "Bakuchu," "Bakumouse," and "Bakurat" (decorative patterns "2," "4," and "6"). This is an explanatory diagram showing the special ability effects of the characters "Bakuchu," "Bakumouse," and "Bakurat" (decorative patterns "2," "4," and "6"). This is an explanatory diagram showing the special ability effects of the characters "Bakuchu", "Bakumouse", and "Bakurat" (decorative patterns "2", "4", and "6"). An explanatory diagram showing the execution ratio for special ability effects. An explanatory diagram showing the execution ratio for special ability effects. An explanatory diagram showing the variable time until a special ability performance is executed.

The following describes an embodiment of the gaming machine according to the present invention with reference to the drawings.

(Shape of characteristic parts)

(SKY2021-1847) The gaming machine of type 1-1A is,
A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and control the game to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A display means;
a performance execution means, the display means being capable of displaying a variable display of decoration identification information corresponding to the variable display of the special identification information,
The ornament identification information includes character information,
The decoration identification information includes first decoration identification information and second decoration identification information,
First character information in the first decoration identification information and second character information in the second decoration identification information are different from each other,
The performance execution means includes:
After the decoration identification information is temporarily stopped, the decoration identification information can be variably displayed again;
As the performance suggesting that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state, a first performance and a second performance having a higher expectation of being controlled to the advantageous state than the first performance can be executed;
As a pre-stage performance before the first performance is executed, a first pattern of pre-stage performance can be executed,
As a pre-stage performance before the second performance is executed, a pre-stage performance of a second pattern can be executed,
the first pattern is executed when a combination of decoration identification information including the first decoration identification information becomes a combination including the first decoration identification information, and the first pattern indicates that the first performance is executed by the first character information;
the second pattern is executed when a combination of decoration identification information including the second decoration identification information becomes a combination including the second decoration identification information, and the second pattern indicates that the second performance is executed by the second character information;
The rate at which the first stage performance is executed in the second pattern varies depending on the number of times the re-variable display is executed in one of the variable displays of the special identification information.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, 47, etc. According to this feature, by executing different effects depending on the type of decoration identification information, it is possible to draw attention to which decoration identification information is displayed in a specific combination, and by notifying that the character of that decoration identification information will also execute a preview effect, it is possible to draw attention to it. Furthermore, by executing a pseudo-continuous effect by the variation, the number of temporary stops of the decoration identification information increases, so that the frequency of the preview effect is increased, and further attention is drawn to the decoration identification information.

(SKY2021-1847) The gaming machine of type 1-1B is,
A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and control the game to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A display means;
a performance execution means, the display means being capable of displaying a variable display of decoration identification information corresponding to the variable display of the special identification information,
The ornament identification information includes character information,
The decoration identification information includes first decoration identification information and second decoration identification information,
The first character information in the first decoration identification information is different from the second character information in the second decoration identification information,
The performance execution means includes:
A pre-reading effect can be executed during a period related to a variable display prior to the target variable display,
As the performance suggesting that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state, a first performance and a second performance having a higher expectation of being controlled to the advantageous state than the first performance can be executed;
As a pre-stage performance before the first performance is executed, a first pattern of pre-stage performance can be executed,
As a pre-stage performance before the second performance is executed, a pre-stage performance of a second pattern can be executed,
the first pattern is executed when a combination of decoration identification information including the first decoration identification information becomes a combination including the first decoration identification information, and the first pattern indicates that the first performance is executed by the first character information;
the second pattern is a pattern that is executed when a combination of decoration identification information including the second decoration identification information becomes a combination including the second decoration identification information, and suggests that the second performance is executed by the second character information;
The rate at which the pre-performance is executed in the second pattern varies depending on the number of times the pre-reading performance is executed in one variable display of the special identification information.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, 48, etc. According to this feature, by executing different effects depending on the type of decoration identification information, it is possible to draw attention to which decoration identification information is displayed in a specific combination, and by notifying the player that the character of that decoration identification information will also execute a preview effect, it is possible to draw attention to that. Furthermore, by making it easier to execute a specific effect with the target change than with the look-ahead effect, it is possible to draw attention to the target change while allowing the player to visually recognize the preview effect from the look-ahead effect, thereby increasing the interest in the game.

The gaming machine of form 1-2 is a gaming machine according to any one of form 1-1A and form 1-1B,
The position where the decoration identification information is displayed includes at least a first position and a second position,
The decoration identification information displayed at the first position and the decoration identification information displayed at the second position have different character forms.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34 etc. According to this feature, by varying the appearance depending on the display position, the display can be made more lively than if it were displayed in the same appearance, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The gaming machine of form 1-3 is a gaming machine according to any one of forms 1-1A to 1-2,
When a combination of at least two pieces of the same type of decoration identification information is formed, the advance notice performance is executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34 etc. According to this feature, by displaying two or more of the same type, the corresponding decoration identification information can be conveyed to the player in an easily understandable manner.

The gaming machine of form 1-4 is a gaming machine according to any one of forms 1-1A to 1-3,
When the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination, the character associated with the decoration identification information changes from a first display mode to a second display mode, and thereafter, the fact that the advance notice performance will be executed is notified while displaying the character.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, it is possible to easily inform the player that a preview performance will be executed.

The gaming machine of aspect 1-5 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 1-1A to 1-4,
The decorative identification information is composed of a display including numbers and the characters, and a preview performance suggestion display suggesting that the preview performance will be executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, the display suggesting the preview performance makes it easier to know what performance will be performed, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The gaming machine of aspect 1-6 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 1-1A to 1-5,
After the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination, a notification effect is executed while displaying the character, to inform the user that the advance notice effect is executed.
The advance notice performance is started while the notification performance is being executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, by starting a preview performance when a notification performance is being executed, it is possible to make it easy to understand that the trigger for executing the preview performance is that the decorative identification information has become a specific combination.

The gaming machine of aspect 1-7 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 1-1A to 1-6,
The number of the first decorative identification information is displayed in a first color;
The number of the second decorative identification information is displayed in a second color;
The specific combination includes a first aspect and a second aspect,
In the first aspect, the ornament identification information of the same type is displayed adjacent to each other,
In the second aspect, the ornament identification information of the same type is displayed so that they are not adjacent to each other,
The second decoration identification information is more likely to be controlled to the advantageous state when displayed in the second manner than when the first decoration identification information is displayed in the second manner.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, by visually checking the color of the numbers in the decorative identification information when a specific combination is formed or not, it is possible to estimate the proportion of times that the preview performance executed when the decorative identification information forms a specific combination will be controlled to an advantageous state by the color of the numbers in the decorative identification information.

(SKY2021-1848) The gaming machine of type 2-1 is,
A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and control the game to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A display means;
a performance execution means, the display means being capable of displaying a variable display of decoration identification information corresponding to the variable display of the special identification information,
The ornament identification information includes character information,
The performance execution means includes:
As a performance suggesting that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state, a first performance and a second performance having a higher expectation of being controlled to the advantageous state than the first performance can be executed;
A first pattern of pre-stage performance can be executed as a pre-stage performance before either the first performance or the second performance is executed,
A second pattern of pre-stage performance can be executed as a pre-stage performance before either the first performance or the second performance is executed,
the first pattern is executed when the combination of the decoration identification information becomes a reach state, and the character information indicates that the first effect or the second effect will be executed;
the second pattern is executed when the combination of the decoration identification information does not result in the reach mode, and is a pattern that suggests that the first effect or the second effect will be executed by the character information;
The rate at which the second performance is executed after the first pattern of the pre-performance is executed is higher than the rate at which the second performance is executed after the first pattern of the pre-performance is executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, 48, etc. According to this feature, by executing different effects depending on the type of decoration identification information, it is possible to draw attention to which decoration identification information is displayed in a specific combination, and by notifying that the character of that decoration identification information will also execute a preview effect, it is possible to draw further attention. Furthermore, by changing the execution rate of the preview effect when the combination is in a reach state and when the combination is not in a reach state, it is possible to draw attention to a specific combination.

The gaming machine of aspect 2-2 is the gaming machine according to aspect 2-1,
The position where the decoration identification information is displayed includes at least a first position and a second position,
The decoration identification information displayed at the first position and the decoration identification information displayed at the second position have different character forms.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34 etc. According to this feature, by varying the appearance depending on the display position, the display can be made more lively than if the display were in the same appearance, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The gaming machine of aspect 2-3 is the gaming machine according to any one of aspects 2-1 and 2-2,
When a combination of at least two pieces of the same type of decoration identification information is formed, the advance notice performance is executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34 etc. According to this feature, by displaying two or more of the same type, the corresponding decoration identification information can be conveyed to the player in an easily understandable manner.

The gaming machine of aspect 2-4 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 2-1 to 2-3,
When the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination, the character associated with the decoration identification information changes from a first display mode to a second display mode, and thereafter, the fact that the advance notice performance will be executed is notified while displaying the character.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, it is possible to easily inform the player that a preview performance will be executed.

The gaming machine of aspect 2-5 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 2-1 to 2-4,
The decorative identification information is composed of a display including numbers and the characters, and a preview performance suggestion display suggesting that the preview performance will be executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, the display suggesting the preview performance makes it easier to know what performance will be performed, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The gaming machine of aspect 2-6 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 2-1 to 2-5,
After the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination, a notification effect is executed while displaying the character, to inform the user that the advance notice effect is executed.
The advance notice performance is started while the notification performance is being executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, by starting a preview performance when a notification performance is being executed, it is possible to make it easy to understand that the trigger for executing the preview performance is that the decorative identification information has become a specific combination.

The gaming machine of aspect 2-7 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 2-1 to 2-6,
The number of the first decorative identification information is displayed in a first color;
The number of the second decorative identification information is displayed in a second color;
The specific combination includes a first aspect and a second aspect,
In the first aspect, the ornament identification information of the same type is displayed adjacent to each other,
In the second aspect, the ornament identification information of the same type is displayed so that they are not adjacent to each other,
The second decoration identification information is more likely to be controlled to the advantageous state when displayed in the second manner than when the first decoration identification information is displayed in the second manner.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, by visually checking the color of the numbers in the decorative identification information when a specific combination is formed or not, it is possible to estimate the proportion of times that the preview performance executed when the decorative identification information forms a specific combination will be controlled to an advantageous state by the color of the numbers in the decorative identification information.

The gaming machine of aspect 2-8 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 2-1 to 2-7,
The first and second modes can be executed multiple times during one variable display.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34, 36, 37, etc. According to this feature, by making it possible to execute the action multiple times, the presentation can be made more lively.

The gaming machine of aspect 2-9 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 2-1 to 2-8,
When the decoration identification information is displayed in the first mode, the first preview performance is executed more frequently than the second preview performance.
Corresponding drawings: Figure 47, etc. According to this feature, by having a higher execution rate of the first preview performance than the second preview performance in the first and second modes, the preview performance can be noticed with the same sense of anticipation in both modes.

(SKY2021-1849) The gaming machine of type 3-1 is,
A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and control the game to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A display means;
a performance execution means, the display means being capable of displaying a variable display of decoration identification information corresponding to the variable display of the special identification information,
The ornament identification information includes character information,
The performance execution means includes:
A specific effect can be executed as an effect suggesting that the game is controlled to the advantageous state,
Before the specific performance is executed, a combination of the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination, so that a pre-stage performance that suggests that the specific performance will be executed by the character information can be executed;
The first stage performance may be executed at a first timing in one variable display of the special identification information, and the first stage performance may be executed at a second timing after the first timing,
The period from the first timing to the second timing is shorter than the period from the start of one variable display of the special identification information to the first timing.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, 49, etc. According to this feature, by executing different effects depending on the type of decoration identification information, it is possible to draw attention to which decoration identification information will be displayed in a specific combination, and by notifying the player that the character of that decoration identification information will also execute a preview effect, it is possible to draw further attention. Furthermore, by shortening the time until the preview effect is executed at the second timing, it is possible to make the game more lively and increase the interest in the game.

The gaming machine of aspect 3-2 is the gaming machine according to aspect 3-1,
The position where the decoration identification information is displayed includes at least a first position and a second position,
The decoration identification information displayed at the first position and the decoration identification information displayed at the second position have different character forms.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34 etc. According to this feature, by varying the appearance depending on the display position, the display can be made more lively than if it were displayed in the same appearance, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The gaming machine of aspect 3-3 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 3-1 and 3-2,
When a combination of at least two pieces of the same type of decoration identification information is formed, the advance notice performance is executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34 etc. According to this feature, by displaying two or more of the same type, the corresponding decoration identification information can be conveyed to the player in an easily understandable manner.

The gaming machine of aspect 3-4 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-3,
When the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination, the character associated with the decoration identification information changes from a first display mode to a second display mode, and thereafter, the fact that the advance notice performance will be executed is notified while displaying the character.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, it is possible to easily inform the player that a preview performance will be executed.

The gaming machine of aspect 3-5 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-4,
The decorative identification information is composed of a display including numbers and the characters, and a preview performance suggestion display suggesting that the preview performance will be executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, the display suggesting the preview performance makes it easier to know what performance will be performed, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The gaming machine of aspect 3-6 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-5,
After the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination, a notification effect is executed while displaying the character, to inform the user that the advance notice effect is executed.
The advance notice performance is started while the notification performance is being executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, by starting a preview performance when a notification performance is being executed, it is possible to make it easy to understand that the trigger for executing the preview performance is that the decorative identification information has become a specific combination.

The gaming machine of aspect 3-7 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-6,
The number of the first decorative identification information is displayed in a first color;
The number of the second decorative identification information is displayed in a second color;
The specific combination includes a first aspect and a second aspect,
In the first aspect, the ornament identification information of the same type is displayed adjacent to each other,
In the second aspect, the ornament identification information of the same type is displayed so that they are not adjacent to each other,
The second decoration identification information is more likely to be controlled to the advantageous state when displayed in the second manner than when the first decoration identification information is displayed in the second manner.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, by visually checking the color of the numbers in the decorative identification information when a specific combination is formed or not, it is possible to estimate the proportion of times that the preview performance executed when the decorative identification information forms a specific combination will be controlled to an advantageous state by the color of the numbers in the decorative identification information.

The gaming machine of aspect 3-8 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-7,
The second preview performance has a higher probability of being controlled to the advantageous state than the first preview performance.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, Figures 47 to 49, etc. According to this feature, since the preview performance is executed multiple times, it is possible to focus on the preview performance that is executed later, and to draw attention to it.

The gaming machine of aspect 3-9 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-8,
The first preview performance and the second preview performance are of the same type.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, 47 to 49, etc. According to this feature, by changing the execution time when the same preview performance is executed, it is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game by making the performance shorter than the first preview performance rather than showing a similar performance for the same amount of time.

The gaming machine of aspect 3-10 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 3-1 to 3-9,
A first preview performance among the multiple preview performances is performed a first time after the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination,
A second advance notice performance, which is executed multiple times and is executed after the first advance notice performance, is executed after a second time has elapsed since the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, 49, etc. According to this feature, by making the time until the second preview performance is executed shorter, the fluctuations can be made more lively, thereby increasing interest in the game.

(SKY2021-1850) The gaming machine of type 4-1 is,
A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and control the game to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A display means;
a performance execution means, the advantageous state including a first advantageous state and a second advantageous state more advantageous than the first advantageous state, the display means being capable of displaying a variable display of decorative identification information corresponding to the variable display of the special identification information,
The ornament identification information includes character information,
The performance execution means includes:
A specific effect can be executed as an effect suggesting that the game is controlled to the advantageous state,
Before the specific performance is executed, a pre-stage performance can be executed that suggests that the specific performance will be executed by the character information after the combination of the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination,
The first stage performance can be executed during a period until the variable display determined to be controlled to the first advantageous state ends and during a period until the variable display determined to be controlled to the second advantageous state ends;
The number of times the pre-stage performance is executed during the period until the variable display determined to be controlled to the second advantageous state ends is greater than the number of times the pre-stage performance is executed during the period until the variable display determined to be controlled to the first advantageous state ends.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, 36, 37, 48, etc. According to this feature, by executing different effects depending on the type of decoration identification information, it is possible to draw attention to which decoration identification information is displayed in a specific combination, and by notifying that a preview effect will also be executed for the character of that decoration identification information, it is possible to draw further attention. Furthermore, since whether or not the second advantageous state is controlled varies depending on the number of times that the decoration identification information is displayed in a specific combination, it is possible to draw attention to the number of times that the decoration identification information is displayed in a specific combination, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The gaming machine of aspect 4-2 is the gaming machine according to aspect 4-1,
The position where the decoration identification information is displayed includes at least a first position and a second position,
The decoration identification information displayed at the first position and the decoration identification information displayed at the second position have different character forms.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34 etc. According to this feature, by varying the appearance depending on the display position, the display can be made more lively than if it were displayed in the same appearance, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The gaming machine of aspect 4-3 is the gaming machine according to any one of aspects 4-1 and 4-2,
When a combination of at least two pieces of the same type of decoration identification information is formed, the advance notice performance is executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34 etc. According to this feature, by displaying two or more of the same type, the corresponding decoration identification information can be conveyed to the player in an easily understandable manner.

The gaming machine of aspect 4-4 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 4-1 to 4-3,
When the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination, the character associated with the decoration identification information changes from a first display mode to a second display mode, and thereafter, the fact that the advance notice performance will be executed is notified while displaying the character.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, it is possible to easily inform the player that a preview performance will be executed.

The gaming machine of aspect 4-5 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 4-1 to 4-4,
The decorative identification information is composed of a display including numbers and the characters, and a preview performance suggestion display suggesting that the preview performance will be executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, the display suggesting the preview performance makes it easier to know what performance will be performed, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The gaming machine of aspect 4-6 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 4-1 to 4-5,
After the decoration identification information becomes a specific combination, a notification effect is executed while displaying the character, to inform the user that the advance notice effect is executed.
The advance notice performance is started while the notification performance is being executed.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, by starting a preview performance when a notification performance is being executed, it is possible to make it easy to understand that the trigger for executing the preview performance is that the decorative identification information has become a specific combination.

The gaming machine of aspect 4-7 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 4-1 to 4-6,
The number of the first decorative identification information is displayed in a first color;
The number of the second decorative identification information is displayed in a second color;
The specific combination includes a first aspect and a second aspect,
In the first aspect, the ornament identification information of the same type is displayed adjacent to each other,
In the second aspect, the ornament identification information of the same type is displayed so that they are not adjacent to each other,
The second decoration identification information is more likely to be controlled to the advantageous state when displayed in the second manner than when the first decoration identification information is displayed in the second manner.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34, etc. According to this feature, by visually checking the color of the numbers in the decorative identification information when a specific combination is formed or not, it is possible to estimate the proportion of times that the preview performance executed when the decorative identification information forms a specific combination will be controlled to an advantageous state by the color of the numbers in the decorative identification information.

The gaming machine of aspect 4-8 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 4-1 to 4-7,
The specific combination includes a first aspect and a second aspect,
In the first mode, the decoration identification information is displayed in a reach mode,
In the second mode, the decoration identification information is displayed in a non-reach mode.
Corresponding drawings: Figs. 27 to 34, 36, 37, etc. According to this feature, by giving types to specific combinations, it is possible to focus attention on the combinations.

The gaming machine of aspect 4-9 is a gaming machine according to any one of aspects 4-1 to 4-8,
The second aspect includes a predetermined second aspect accompanied by the decorative identification information using numbers in a first color, and a specific second aspect accompanied by the decorative identification information using numbers in a second color.
Corresponding drawings: Figures 27 to 34 etc. According to this feature, by providing variation to the second mode, it is possible to prevent the player's interest from declining.

(Basic explanation)
First, the basic configuration and control of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (which is also the configuration and control of a general pachinko gaming machine) will be described.

(Configuration of Pachinko Game Machine 1, etc.)
1 is a front view of a pachinko game machine 1, showing the layout of the main components. The pachinko game machine (game machine) 1 is broadly composed of a game board (gauge board) 2 that constitutes the game board surface, and a game machine frame (base frame) 3 that supports and fixes the game board 2. A game area is formed on the game board 2, and game balls as game media are shot into this game area by a predetermined ball shooting device.

At predetermined positions on the game board 2, a bar device 005IW32 and a panel movable body are provided as movable bodies that operate according to the performance. The panel movable bodies include a first panel movable body 005IW33 that imitates the shape of a grape, a second panel movable body 005IW34 that imitates the shape of a banana, and a third panel movable body 005IW35 that imitates the shape of a watermelon.

The bar device 005IW32 is provided so that it can be driven in the vertical direction between a first advanced position which is approximately in the center of the image display device 5 and a second advanced position which is at the bottom of the image display device 5, with the position shown in the figure (the top of the image display device 5, which does not overlap with the display area of the image display device 5) as the retracted position. It takes a certain amount of time for the bar device 005IW32 to move from the retracted position to a position which overlaps with the display area of the image display device 5. In addition, an origin sensor is provided which detects when the bar device 005IW32 is in the retracted position (origin position).

The first panel movable body 005IW33 is configured so that it can be driven left and right to a retracted position shown in the figure (where it partially overlaps with the left region of the image display device 5) and an advanced position where it completely overlaps with the image display device 5.

The second panel movable body 005IW34 is configured so that it can be driven left and right to a retracted position shown in the figure (where it partially overlaps with the right-hand region of the image display device 5) and an advanced position where it completely overlaps with the image display device 5.

The third panel movable body 005IW35 is configured so that it can be driven in the vertical direction to a retreated position shown in the figure (a position below the image display device 5 and not overlapping with the image display device 5) and an advanced position where the entire body overlaps with the image display device 5.

Each moving body is controlled by preview effects and other effects that are executed during the movement.

In addition, around the periphery of the play area, there are provided game effect lamps for game effects, including a main lamp 005IW9a, a frame lamp 005IW9b, a specific lamp 005IW9c, a bar role lamp 005IW9d installed on the bar role 005IW32, a first panel lamp 005IW9e installed on the first panel movable body 005IW33, a second panel lamp 005IW9f installed on the second panel movable body 005IW34, a third panel lamp 005IW9g installed on the third panel movable body 005IW35, and a button lamp 005IW9h installed on the push button 31B (also called a button). Hereinafter, the first panel lamp 005IW9e, the second panel lamp 005IW9f, and the third panel lamp 005IW9g may be collectively referred to as "panel lamps".

Each game effect lamp is controlled to emit light according to a lighting pattern that corresponds to background music, background effects, preview effects executed during fluctuations, and errors. The main lamp 005IW9a, frame lamp 005IW9b, specific lamp 005IW9c, bar gimmick lamp 005IW9d, first panel lamp 005IW9e, second panel lamp 005IW9f, third panel lamp 005IW9g, and button lamp 005IW9h are all configured to include LEDs.

The light-emitting area of the frame lamp 005IW9b is divided into a first light-emitting area on the upper side and a second light-emitting area on the lower side, and is configured so that light emission can be controlled for each light-emitting area. For example, it is possible to perform light emission control for only the first light-emitting area, to perform light emission control for only the second light-emitting area, or to perform light emission control for both the first and second light-emitting areas.

In addition, a vibration motor 005IW31c is provided inside the push button 31B. The vibrations from the vibration motor 005IW31c are also transmitted to the gaming machine frame 3 and the like, allowing the entire pachinko gaming machine 1 to vibrate. The vibrations can also be transmitted to the player via the ball-hitting handle 30. The vibration motor 005IW31c is vibration-controlled by a vibration pattern that corresponds to the preview performance and other effects executed during fluctuation. The vibration patterns of the vibration motor 005IW31c include a first vibration pattern, a second vibration pattern with a shorter vibration time than the first vibration pattern, a third vibration pattern, and a fourth vibration pattern.

The first vibration pattern is a vibration pattern of the vibration motor 005IW31c that is used in the special effects described below. The second vibration pattern is a vibration pattern of the vibration motor 005IW31c that is used in the jackpot notification effects described below. The third and fourth vibration patterns are vibration patterns of the vibration motor 005IW31c that are used in the vibration suggestion effects that suggest the reliability of control over a jackpot.

The first and second vibration patterns are vibration patterns that are used to enhance the effects of special effects and jackpot notification effects as part of the effects control, and are not vibration patterns used to suggest the reliability of controlling a jackpot. On the other hand, the third and fourth vibration patterns are vibration patterns that are used to suggest the reliability of controlling a jackpot, since the reliability of controlling a jackpot varies depending on which vibration pattern is selected in the vibration indication effects.

For example, in the case of a jackpot fluctuation, there is a 20% chance that a vibration suggestion effect will not be executed, a 30% chance that a vibration suggestion effect with a third vibration pattern (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the first vibration suggestion effect) will be executed, and a 50% chance that a vibration suggestion effect with a fourth vibration pattern (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the second vibration suggestion effect) will be executed. On the other hand, in the case of a miss fluctuation, there is a 60% chance that a vibration suggestion effect will not be executed, a 30% chance that a first vibration suggestion effect will be executed, and a 10% chance that a second vibration suggestion effect will be executed. In this way, the reliability of controlling to a jackpot will be the first vibration suggestion effect < the second vibration suggestion effect (i.e., the third vibration pattern < the fourth vibration pattern).

In addition, the game effect lamp is controlled to emit light in a first vibration suggestion light pattern in response to the execution of a first vibration suggestion performance, and the game effect lamp is controlled to emit light in a second vibration suggestion light pattern in response to the execution of a second vibration suggestion performance. The first vibration suggestion light pattern and the second vibration suggestion light pattern are light-emitting control patterns that cause the game effect lamp to emit light in different light-emitting modes. In addition, the first vibration suggestion light pattern and the second vibration suggestion light pattern are light-emitting control patterns that cause the game effect lamp to emit light in a light-emitting mode that is different from the special light-emitting pattern described below and the special light-emitting pattern described below.

In addition, the first and second vibration patterns are patterns that perform vibrations corresponding to the movement of the image display in special effects and big win notification effects, and the sound effects and background music that are output, while the third and fourth vibration patterns are patterns that do not perform vibrations corresponding to the movement of the image display in some effects, or the sound effects and background music that are output. Specifically, at the start of the fluctuation, a vibration suggestion effect is suddenly performed accompanied by vibration of the vibration motor 005IW31c in the third or fourth vibration pattern.

The first to fourth vibration patterns all have different vibration times for the vibration motor 005IW31c, and the vibration times for the vibration motor 005IW31c are as follows: first vibration pattern > second vibration pattern > fourth vibration pattern > third vibration pattern. Note that the vibration times for the vibration motor 005IW31c in each vibration pattern are not limited to this, and for example, the vibration times for the vibration motor 005IW31c may be first vibration pattern < second vibration pattern. This makes it possible to prevent excessive expectations from being aroused before it is clear whether or not a jackpot will be reached (during the execution of the special effects), and also makes it possible to further emphasize the fact that a jackpot will be reached, thereby increasing interest in the game.

Note that the "variable display" of special symbols means, for example, a variable display of multiple types of special symbols (the same applies to other symbols described below). Variations include updating the display of multiple symbols, scrolling the display of multiple symbols, transforming one or more symbols, and enlarging/reducing one or more symbols. In the variation of special symbols and normal symbols described below, multiple types of special symbols or normal symbols are updated and displayed. In the variation of decorative symbols described below, multiple types of decorative symbols are scrolled or updated, or one or more decorative symbols are transformed or enlarged/reduced. Note that variations also include a mode in which a certain symbol is displayed flashing. At the end of the variable display, a specified special symbol is displayed stationary (also called derived or derived display) as the display result (the same applies to the variable display of other symbols described below). Note that the variable display may be expressed as a variable display or variation.

The special pattern variably displayed on the first special pattern display device 4A is also called the "first special pattern," and the special pattern variably displayed on the second special pattern display device 4B is also called the "second special pattern." A special pattern game using the first special pattern is also called the "first special pattern game," and a special pattern game using the second special pattern is also called the "second special pattern game." There may be only one type of special pattern display device that variably displays the special patterns.

An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the play area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or an organic EL (electro luminescence) device, and displays various presentation images. The image display device 5 may also be composed of a projector and a screen. Various presentation images are displayed on the image display device 5.

For example, on the screen of the image display device 5 (also called the screen), decorative patterns (such as patterns showing numbers, etc.) as multiple types of decorative identification information different from the special patterns are variably displayed in synchronization with the first special pattern game or the second special pattern game. Here, decorative patterns are variably displayed (for example, scrolled up and down or updated) in the "left", "middle" and "right" decorative pattern display areas SKY007, SKY008 and SKY009 in synchronization with the first special pattern game or the second special pattern game. The special pattern games and the variable display of decorative patterns executed in synchronization are collectively referred to simply as variable display.

The screen of the image display device 5 may be provided with a display area for displaying a pending display corresponding to a variable display whose execution is pending, and an active display corresponding to a variable display that is being executed. The pending display and the active display are collectively referred to as a variable display-compatible display corresponding to the variable display.

The number of reserved variable displays is also referred to as the reserved memory number. The reserved memory number corresponding to the first special game is also referred to as the first reserved memory number, and the reserved memory number corresponding to the second special game is also referred to as the second reserved memory number. The sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number is also referred to as the total reserved memory number.

A first hold indicator 25A and a second hold indicator 25B, each of which includes a number of LEDs, are provided at predetermined positions on the game board 2. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first hold memory number by the number of lit LEDs. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second hold memory number by the number of lit LEDs.

A winning ball device 6A is provided below the image display device 5, and a variable winning ball device 6B is provided to the right of the winning ball device 6A.

The winning ball device 6A forms a first start winning hole that is always kept in a constant open state so that game balls can enter, for example, by a specified ball receiving member. When a game ball enters the first start winning hole, a specified number of prize balls (for example, three) are paid out and the first special game can be started.

The variable winning ball device 6B (normal electric device) forms a second start winning hole that changes between a closed state and an open state by the solenoid 81 (see FIG. 3). The variable winning ball device 6B, for example, has an electric tulip-type device having a pair of movable pieces, and when the solenoid 81 is in the off state, the movable pieces are in a vertical position, so that the tip of the movable pieces approaches the winning ball device 6A, and the second start winning hole is in a closed state in which the game ball does not enter (also referred to as the second start winning hole being in a closed state). On the other hand, when the solenoid 81 is in the on state, the movable pieces of the variable winning ball device 6B are in a tilted position, so that the second start winning hole is in an open state in which the game ball can enter (also referred to as the second start winning hole being in an open state). When a game ball enters the second start winning hole, a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, three) are paid out and the second special game can be started. The variable winning ball device 6B may be any device that can change between a closed state and an open state, and is not limited to devices that include an electric tulip-type device.

At predetermined positions on the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, three locations are provided at the lower left of the game area and one location is provided above the variable winning ball device 6B), general winning openings 10 are provided which are always kept in a constant open state by a predetermined ball receiving member. In this case, when a game ball enters one of the general winning openings 10, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10 balls) are paid out as prize balls.

Between the winning ball device 6A and the variable winning ball device 6B, a special variable winning ball device 7 having a large winning opening is provided. The special variable winning ball device 7 has a large winning opening door that is driven to open and close by a solenoid 82 (see Figure 3), and the large winning opening door forms the large winning opening as a specific area that can be switched between an open state and a closed state.

As an example, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door (for the special electric device) is in the OFF state, the large prize opening door closes the large prize opening, and game balls cannot enter (pass through) the large prize opening. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door is in the ON state, the large prize opening door opens the large prize opening, and game balls can easily enter the large prize opening.

When a game ball enters the large prize opening, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 14 balls) are paid out as prize balls. When a game ball enters the large prize opening, more prize balls are paid out than when a game ball enters the first start prize opening, the second start prize opening, or the general prize opening 10, for example.

The entry of a game ball into each winning port, including the general winning port 10, is also called a "winning". In particular, a winning ball into the starting port (first starting winning port, second starting winning port) is also called a starting winning port.

A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position on the game board 2 (the lower left of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is made up of a 7-segment LED or the like, and performs a variable display of normal symbols as multiple types of normal identification information different from the special symbols. The normal symbols are represented by numbers showing "0" to "9" or lighting patterns such as "-". The normal symbols may also include a pattern in which all LEDs are turned off. Such a variable display of normal symbols is also called a normal symbol game.

A pass gate 41 through which the game ball can pass is provided to the right of the image display device 5. When the game ball passes through the pass gate 41, a regular game is executed.

A regular symbol pending display 25C is provided below the regular symbol display 20. The regular symbol pending display 25C is configured to include, for example, four LEDs, and displays the regular symbol pending memory number, which is the number of regular symbol games that are pending execution, by the number of lit LEDs.

In addition to the above features, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with windmills that change the direction and speed of the game balls, as well as numerous obstacle nails. At the very bottom of the game area, there is an outlet that takes in game balls that do not enter any of the winning holes.

Speakers 8L, 8R for playing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3. A main lamp 9a is provided above the image display device 5 in the gaming machine frame 3, and frame lamps 9b are provided to the left and right of the main lamp 9a so as to surround the playing area. Furthermore, an attacca lamp 9c is provided near the special variable winning ball device 7 on the gaming board 2. Places that emit light under the control of the CPU, such as the main lamp 9a and frame lamps, are collectively referred to as decorative light-emitting objects.

At a predetermined position on the game board 2 (above the image display device 5 in FIG. 1), a movable body 32 (described later) that operates according to the performance is provided. The movable body 32 is also provided with a movable body lamp 9d. The movable body lamp 9d and the above-mentioned main lamp 9a, frame lamp 9b, and attacca lamp 9c may be collectively referred to as the game effect lamp 9. The main lamp 9a, frame lamp 9b, attacca lamp 9c, and movable body lamp 9d are each configured to include an LED.

At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a ball-hitting operation handle (operation knob) 30 is provided, which is operated by the player or the like to launch the gaming ball toward the gaming area using the ball-hitting device.

At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the playing area, a ball supply tray (upper tray) is provided to hold (store) gaming balls dispensed as prize balls or game balls lent by a predetermined ball lending machine so that they can be supplied to the ball launching device. In addition to the upper tray, the gaming machine frame 3 may also be provided with a payout section (ball supply tray) from which prize balls are paid out when the upper tray is full.

A stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by the player is attached to a predetermined position on the gaming machine frame 3 below the playing area. The stick controller 31A is provided with a trigger button that can be pressed by the player. Operations on the stick controller 31A are detected by the controller sensor unit 35A (see FIG. 3).

At a predetermined position on the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a push button 31B is provided that the player can press to give a predetermined command. The operation of the push button 31B is detected by a push sensor 35B (see FIG. 3).

In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a stick controller 31A and a push button 31B are provided as detection means for detecting the player's actions (operations, etc.), but other detection means may also be provided.

Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The main board 11, housed in a board case 201, is mounted on the rear of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The main board 11 is provided with a setting key 51 and a setting change switch 52. The setting key 51 functions as a lock switch for switching to a setting change state or a setting confirmation state. The setting change switch 52 functions as a setting switch for changing settings such as the probability of winning a jackpot and the ball payout rate in the setting change state. The setting key 51 and the setting change switch 52 may be attached to the outside of the main board 11, for example, at a predetermined position on the power supply board 17.

A display monitor 29 is disposed in the center of the back surface of the main board 11, and a display changeover switch 31 is disposed to the side of the display monitor 29. The display monitor 29 may be configured, for example, using a seven-segment LED display device. The display monitor 29 and the display changeover switch 31 are disposed directly in front of the main board 11 when the back surface of the game board 2 is viewed with the game machine frame 3 open.

The display monitor 29 can display winning information such as consecutive win ratio, winning ratio, and base. The consecutive win ratio is the ratio of the number of winning balls that have entered the large winning port (attacker) to the total number of winning balls. The winning ratio is the ratio of the number of winning balls that have entered the second start winning port (electric chute) and the number of winning balls that have entered the large winning port (attacker) to the total number of winning balls. The base is the ratio of the total number of winning balls to the number of game balls shot out. When in the setting change state or setting confirmation state, the display monitor 29 can display the setting values in the pachinko game machine 1. When in the setting change state or setting confirmation state, the display monitor 29 only needs to be able to display the setting values to be changed or confirmed.

When the gaming machine frame 3 is closed, the setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52 cannot be operated from the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The gaming machine frame 3 is provided with a rotatable glass door frame 3a having a glass window, and is configured so that the gaming area can be opened and closed by the glass door frame 3a. When the glass door frame 3a is closed, the gaming area can be seen through the glass window.

In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a security cover 50A is attached to the right end of the outer frame 1a, which is formed in a vertically long rectangular frame shape. When the gaming machine frame 3 is closed, the security cover 50A covers the right side of the board case 201, including the setting key 51 and the setting changeover switch 52, from the rear side. The security cover 50A is a roughly L-shaped member including a short piece 50Aa and a long piece 50Ab, and may be made of a transparent synthetic resin.

(Outline of game progress)
The game ball is launched toward the game area by the player rotating the ball hitting operation handle 30 provided on the pachinko game machine 1. When the game ball passes through the passing gate 41, a normal game is started by the normal symbol display 20. If the game ball passes through the passing gate 41 during the period during which the previous normal game is being played (if the game ball passes through the passing gate 41 but the normal game based on the passing cannot be played immediately), the normal game based on the passing is reserved up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4).

In this normal game, if a specific normal symbol (a normal winning symbol) is displayed as a fixed normal symbol, the display result of the normal symbol will be "normal winning". On the other hand, if a normal symbol other than a normal winning symbol (a normal losing symbol) is displayed as a fixed normal symbol, the display result of the normal symbol will be "normal losing". When a "normal winning" occurs, an opening control is performed to keep the variable winning ball device 6B in an open state for a predetermined period of time (the second starting winning port is opened).

When a game ball enters the first start winning hole formed in the winning ball device 6A, the first special symbol game is started by the first special symbol display device 4A.

When a game ball enters the second start winning hole formed in the variable winning ball device 6B, the second special symbol game is started by the second special symbol display device 4B.

In addition, if the game ball enters (wins) the start winning hole during the period when the special game is being played or during the period when the game is controlled to the jackpot game state described below (when a start winning occurs but the special game based on the start winning cannot be played immediately), the special game based on that entry will be put on hold until a specified upper limit number (for example, 4) is reached.

In the special game, if a specific special symbol (a jackpot symbol, for example, "7"; the actual symbol varies depending on the type of jackpot, as described below) is displayed as a confirmed special symbol, it is a "jackpot", and if a special symbol different from the jackpot symbol (a losing symbol, for example, "-") is displayed as a stopped symbol, it is a "miss". Note that "misses" in this pachinko game machine 1 include "misses with time reduction" that are controlled to a high base state (time reduction state) from the next variable display without going through a jackpot game.

After the display result in the special game becomes "jackpot," the game is controlled to a jackpot game state, which is an advantageous state for the player.

In the jackpot game state, the large prize opening formed by the special variable prize ball device 7 is opened in a predetermined manner. This open state continues until either a predetermined period of time (e.g., 29 seconds or 1.8 seconds) has elapsed, or the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening reaches a predetermined number (e.g., 9), whichever comes first. The predetermined period is the maximum period during which the large prize opening can be opened in one round, and is hereinafter also referred to as the maximum opening period. This cycle in which the large prize opening is open is called a round (round game). In the jackpot game state, the round can be repeated until the predetermined maximum number of times (15 times or 2 times) is reached.

In the jackpot gaming state, the player can get prize balls by making the gaming ball enter the big prize opening. Therefore, the jackpot gaming state is an advantageous state for the player. The more rounds there are in the jackpot gaming state, and the longer the upper limit opening period, the more advantageous it is for the player.

The "jackpot" has a jackpot type set. For example, there are multiple types of opening modes of the jackpot opening (number of rounds or maximum opening period) and game states after the jackpot game state (normal state, time-saving state, special state, etc.), and the jackpot type is set according to these. There may be jackpot types that offer many prize balls, jackpot types that offer few prize balls, or jackpot types that offer almost no prize balls.

After the jackpot game state ends, the game may be controlled to a time-saving state or a special state depending on the type of jackpot mentioned above.

In the time-saving state, control (time-saving control) is executed to shorten the average special symbol fluctuation time (period during which the special symbol fluctuates) more than in the normal state. In the time-saving state, control (high opening control, high base control) is also executed to make it easier for the game ball to enter the second start winning hole by shortening the average regular symbol fluctuation time (period during which the regular symbol fluctuates) more than in the normal state and by improving the probability of a "regular symbol hit" in the regular symbol game more than in the normal state. The time-saving state is an advantageous state for the player because it is a state in which the fluctuation efficiency of special symbols (especially the second special symbol) is improved.

In the probability variable state (probability fluctuating state), in addition to time-saving control, probability variable control is executed, which increases the probability that the display result will be a "jackpot" compared to the normal state. The probability variable state is an even more advantageous state for the player, as it not only improves the efficiency of special symbol fluctuation, but also makes it easier to get a "jackpot."

The time-saving state or the probability of a special bonus state will continue until one of the end conditions is met first, such as the specified number of special games being played or the start of the next big win game state. The end condition of the state in which the specified number of special games have been played is also called a count-cut (count-cut time-saving state, count-cut probability of a special bonus state, etc.).

The normal state refers to a game state other than advantageous states such as a jackpot game state that is advantageous to the player, and special states such as a time-saving state and a probability-varying state, and is a state in which the pachinko game machine 1, such as the probability that the display result in the normal game will be a "normal hit" and the probability that the display result in the special game will be a "jackpot", is controlled in the same way as the initial setting state of the pachinko game machine 1 (for example, when a system reset is performed and the specified return process is not executed after the power is turned on).

The state in which special probability control is being executed is also called a high probability state, and the state in which special probability control is not being executed is also called a low probability state. The state in which time-saving control is being executed is also called a high base state, and the state in which time-saving control is not being executed is also called a low base state. Combining these, the time-saving state is also called a low probability/high base state, the special probability state is a high probability/high base state, and the normal state is a low probability/low base state. A high probability state and a low base state is also called a high probability low base state.

The game state may change based on the game ball passing through a specific area (e.g., a specific area in a big prize opening) during a big win game state. For example, when the game ball passes through a specific area, the game state may be controlled to a high probability state after the big win game state.

(Progression of the performance, etc.)
In the pachinko game machine 1, various effects (effects to notify the progress of the game or to liven up the game) are executed according to the progress of the game. The effects are described below. The effects are executed by displaying various effect images on the image display device 5, but in addition to or instead of the display, the effects may be executed as sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, turning on or off the game effect lamp 9, operating the movable body 32, or as an effect using any effect device including some or all of these.

As an effect that is executed according to the progress of the game, in the "left", "middle" and "right" decorative pattern display areas SKY007, SKY008 and SKY009 provided on the image display device 5, a variable display of decorative patterns begins in response to the start of the first or second special pattern game. At the timing when the display result (also called the determined special pattern) in the first or second special pattern game is displayed statically, the determined decorative pattern (a combination of three decorative patterns) which is the display result of the variable display of the decorative patterns is also displayed statically (derived).

During the period from when the variable display of the decorative symbols starts to when it ends, the state of the variable display of the decorative symbols may become a predetermined reach state (a reach is achieved). Here, a reach state refers to a state in which the decorative symbols that have not yet been stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 continue to be variable displayed when the decorative symbols that have not yet been stopped and displayed form part of a jackpot combination, which will be described later.

In addition, when the above-mentioned reach state occurs during the variable display of the decorative symbols, a reach effect is executed. In the pachinko gaming machine 1, multiple types of reach effects are executed with different rates (also called jackpot reliability or jackpot expectation) of the display result (the display result of the special game or the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbols) becoming a "jackpot" depending on the performance state. Reach effects include, for example, a normal reach and an SP reach, which has a higher jackpot reliability than a normal reach.

When the display result of the special game is a "jackpot", a fixed decorative pattern that is a predetermined jackpot combination is derived as the display result of the variable display of decorative patterns on the screen of the image display device 5 (the display result of the variable display of decorative patterns is a "jackpot"). As an example, the same decorative patterns are displayed stopped along a predetermined effective line in the "left", "center", and "right" decorative pattern display areas SKY007, SKY008, and SKY009.

In the case of a "probability jackpot" in which the probability jackpot state is controlled after the end of the jackpot game state, odd decorative symbols may be displayed in a line-up, and in the case of a "non-probability jackpot (normal jackpot)" in which the probability jackpot state is not controlled after the end of the jackpot game state, even decorative symbols may be displayed in a line-up. In this case, odd decorative symbols are also called probability jackpot symbols, and even decorative symbols are also called non-probability jackpot symbols (normal symbols). After a reach state is reached with non-probability jackpot symbols, a promotion effect may be executed that ultimately results in a "probability jackpot".

When the display result of the special game is a "miss," the state of the variable display of the decorative pattern does not become a reach state, and the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern may display a fixed decorative pattern of a non-reach combination (also called a "non-reach miss") as a "non-reach miss" (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern may be a "non-reach miss"). Also, when the display result is a "miss," after the state of the variable display of the decorative pattern becomes a reach state, the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern may display a fixed decorative pattern of a predetermined reach combination (also called a "reach miss") that is not a jackpot combination as a "reach miss" (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern may be a "reach miss").

The effects that the pachinko gaming machine 1 can execute include displaying the variable display compatible display (reserved display or active display) described above. In addition, as other effects, for example, a preview effect that predicts the jackpot reliability is executed during the variable display of the decorative pattern. Preview effects include a preview effect that predicts the jackpot reliability in the variable display currently being executed, and a look-ahead preview effect that predicts the jackpot reliability in the variable display before execution (variable display whose execution is on hold). As a look-ahead preview effect, an effect that changes the display mode of the variable display compatible display (reserved display or active display) to a mode different from normal may be executed.

In addition, in the image display device 5, a pseudo consecutive performance may be executed in which a single variable display appears to be multiple variable displays by temporarily pausing the decorative pattern during the variable display and then restarting the variable display.

Even during a jackpot game state, a jackpot performance is executed to notify the player of the jackpot game state. The jackpot performance may include a performance to notify the player of the number of rounds, or an upgrade performance to show that the value of the jackpot game state is increasing.

In addition, for example, when a special game or the like is not being executed, a demo (demonstration) image is displayed on the image display device 5 (a customer waiting demo performance is executed).

(Board configuration)
The pachinko game machine 1 is equipped with a main board 11, a performance control board 12, a sound control board 13, a lamp control board 14, a relay board 15, and the like, as shown in Fig. 3. In addition, various boards, such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, and a launch control board, are arranged on the back of the pachinko game machine 1. Furthermore, a power supply board 17 is also equipped. The various control boards are not only electronic circuit boards such as printed wiring boards on which conductor patterns are formed and on which electrical components can be mounted, but also electronic circuit mounting boards configured to realize specific electrical functions by mounting electrical components on the electronic circuit board.

A power switch 91 is connected to the power supply board 17, and by operating the power switch 91 (turning it ON), power from an AC power source such as an external power source such as a commercial power supply, such as 100V AC, can be supplied from the power supply board 17 to electrical components including various control boards such as the main board 11 and the performance control board 12. The power supply board 17 is equipped with, for example, a rectifier circuit for converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), and a power supply circuit for converting a specified DC voltage to a specific DC voltage (for example, 12V DC or 5V DC).

The main board 11 is the main control board, and has the function of controlling the progress of the above-mentioned games in the pachinko game machine 1 (execution of special games (including management of reserved games), execution of regular games (including management of reserved games), jackpot game status, game status, etc.). The main board 11 has a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, etc.

The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 102, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103, a random number circuit 104, and an I/O (Input/Output port) 105.

The CPU 103 executes the programs stored in the ROM 101 to perform processes that control the progress of the game (processes that realize the functions of the main board 11). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 101 (such as data on fluctuation patterns, performance control commands, and tables referenced when making various decisions) are used, and the RAM 102 is used as the main memory. The RAM 102 serves as a backup RAM in which the stored contents are preserved for a predetermined period of time even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped in part or in whole. Note that all or part of the programs stored in the ROM 101 may be deployed to the RAM 102 and executed on the RAM 102.

The random number circuit 104 counts updatable numerical data indicating various random number values (gaming random numbers) used to control the progress of the game. The gaming random numbers may be updated by the CPU 103 executing a specific computer program (updated by software).

The I/O 105 is configured to include, for example, an input port to which various signals (detection signals described below) are input, and an output port for transmitting various signals (signals for controlling (driving) the first special pattern display device 4A, the second special pattern display device 4B, the normal pattern display device 20, the first hold display device 25A, the second hold display device 25B, the normal hold display device 25C, etc., solenoid drive signals).

The switch circuit 110 takes in detection signals (such as a detection signal indicating that a game ball has passed or entered and the switch has been turned on) from various switches for detecting game balls (gate switch 21, start port switch (first start port switch 22A and second start port switch 22B), count switch 23) and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The transmission of the detection signal indicates that the game ball has passed or entered.

The switch circuit 110 receives a reset signal, a power-off signal, and a clear signal from the power supply board 17 and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The reset signal is an operation stop signal for stopping the operation of control circuits such as the game control microcomputer 100, and can be output using either a power supply monitoring circuit, an IC with a built-in watchdog timer, or a system reset IC. The power-off signal is turned off when the specified power supply voltage used in the pachinko game machine 1 exceeds a specified value, and is turned on when the period during which the specified power supply voltage is below the specified value continues for longer than the power-off reference time. The clear signal is turned on in response to, for example, pressing the clear switch 92 provided on the power supply board 17.

The solenoid circuit 111 transmits solenoid drive signals (such as signals to turn on solenoid 81 and solenoid 82) from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the normal electric device and the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door.

The main board 11 is connected to a display monitor 29, a display changeover switch 31, a setting key 51, a setting changeover switch 52, and a door open sensor 90. The door open sensor 90 detects the opening of the gaming machine frame 3, including the glass door frame 3a.

As part of controlling the progress of the game, the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) supplies presentation control commands (commands that specify (notify) the progress of the game, etc.) to the presentation control board 12 according to the progress of the game. The presentation control commands output from the main board 11 are relayed by the relay board 15 and supplied to the presentation control board 12. The presentation control commands include, for example, commands that specify various determination results in the main board 11 (for example, the display results of the special game (including the type of jackpot), the variable pattern used when executing the special game (described in detail later)), the game status (for example, the start or end of the variable display, the opening status of the jackpot opening, the occurrence of a win, the number of reserved memories, the game status), the occurrence of an error, etc.

The performance control board 12 is a sub-control board independent of the main board 11, and has the function of receiving performance control commands and executing performances (various performances according to the progress of the game, including various notifications such as driving the movable body 32, notifying errors, and notifying of power outage recovery) based on the received performance control commands.

The performance control board 12 is equipped with a performance control CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, a display control unit 123, a random number circuit 124, and an I/O 125.

The performance control CPU 120 executes the programs stored in the ROM 121 to perform processing for executing performances together with the display control unit 123 (processing for realizing the above-mentioned functions of the performance control board 12, including determining the performance to be executed). At this time, various data (data such as various tables) stored in the ROM 121 are used, and the RAM 122 is used as the main memory.

The presentation control CPU 120 may instruct the display control unit 123 to execute a presentation based on detection signals from the controller sensor unit 35A and the push sensor 35B (signals that are output when an operation by the player is detected and that appropriately indicate the content of the operation).

The display control unit 123 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), CGROM (Character Generator ROM), VRAM (Video RAM), etc., and executes the performance based on instructions to execute the performance from the performance control CPU 120.

The display control unit 123 displays a performance image on the image display unit 5 by supplying a video signal corresponding to the performance to be executed to the image display unit 5 based on an instruction to execute the performance from the performance control CPU 120. The display control unit 123 further supplies a sound designation signal (a signal designating the sound to be output) to the sound control board 13 and a lamp signal (a signal designating the on/off state of the lamp) to the lamp control board 14 in order to output sound synchronized with the display of the performance image and to turn on/off the game effect lamp 9. The display control unit 123 also supplies a signal to operate the movable body 32 to the movable body 32 or to a drive circuit that drives the movable body 32.

The audio control board 13 is equipped with various circuits that drive the speakers 8L and 8R, and drives the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound designation signal, causing the speakers 8L and 8R to output the sound designated by the sound designation signal.

The lamp control board 14 is equipped with various circuits that drive the game effect lamp 9, and drives the game effect lamp 9 based on the lamp signal, turning the game effect lamp 9 on and off in the manner specified by the lamp signal. In this way, the display control unit 123 controls the sound output and the turning on and off of the lamp.

In addition, the control of sound output, turning on/off of the lamp (such as supplying a sound designation signal or a lamp signal), and control of the movable body 32 (such as supplying a signal to operate the movable body 32) may be performed by the performance control CPU 120.

The random number circuit 124 counts updatable numerical data indicating various random number values (random numbers for performance) used to execute various performances. The random numbers for performance may be updated by the performance control CPU 120 executing a specific computer program (updated by software).

The I/O 125 mounted on the performance control board 12 includes an input port for taking in performance control commands transmitted from, for example, the main board 11, and an output port for transmitting various signals (video signals, sound designation signals, lamp signals).

The boards other than the main board 11, such as the performance control board 12, the sound control board 13, and the lamp control board 14, are also called sub-boards. As with the pachinko game machine 1, multiple sub-boards may be provided for different functions, or one sub-board may be configured to have multiple functions.

(motion)
Next, the operation (function) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described.

(Main Operations of Main Board 11)
First, a description will be given of the main operations of the main board 11. When power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is started, and a game control main process is executed by the CPU 103. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the game control main process executed by the CPU 103 on the main board 11.

In the game control main process shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 103 first sets interrupts to be prohibited (step S1). Then, it performs the necessary initial settings (step S2). The initial settings include setting the stack pointer, register settings for built-in devices (CTC (counter/timer circuit), parallel input/output port, etc.), and setting the RAM 102 to be accessible.

Next, it is determined whether the recovery condition is met (step S3). The recovery condition can be met when the clear signal is in the OFF state, backup data is present, and the backup RAM is normal. When power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, if the clear switch provided on the power supply board 17 is pressed, for example, an ON clear signal is input to the game control microcomputer 100. If such an ON clear signal is input, it is determined in step S3 that the recovery condition is not met. The backup data only needs to be capable of being stored in the RAM 102, which serves as the backup RAM for game control. In step S3, it is determined whether the recovery condition can be met by checking or inspecting the presence or absence of backup data and the presence or absence of data errors.

If the recovery condition is met (step S3; Yes), recovery processing (step S4) is executed, followed by setting confirmation processing (step S5). The recovery processing in step S4 sets a working area based on the contents stored in RAM 102. By setting the working area using the backup data stored in RAM 102, the game state when the power supply was stopped is restored, and if, for example, a special symbol was changing, it is sufficient if the change of the special symbol can be resumed from the state before the stoppage.

If the recovery condition is not met (step S3; No), an initialization process (step S6) is executed, and then a setting change process (step S7) is executed. The initialization process in step S6 includes a clearing process that clears flags, counters, and buffers stored in RAM 102, and the execution of the clearing process sets initial values in the working area.

In the setting confirmation process of step S5, it is determined whether a predetermined setting confirmation condition is met. The setting confirmation condition is met, for example, when power supply is started, the detection signal from the door open sensor 90 is in the ON state and the setting key 51 is turned ON. The setting confirmation process of step S5 is executed when the recovery condition is met in step S3, including the clear signal being in the OFF state. Therefore, since the setting confirmation condition can be met only when the clear signal is in the OFF state, the clear signal being in the OFF state can also be included in the setting confirmation condition.

When the setting confirmation condition is met in the setting confirmation process of step S5, the pachinko gaming machine 1 enters a setting confirmation state in which the setting values set therein can be confirmed, and a setting confirmation start command is sent from the main board 11 to the performance control board 12. In the setting confirmation state, the setting values set in the pachinko gaming machine 1 can be confirmed by viewing them on the display monitor 29. When the setting confirmation state is to end, a setting confirmation end command is sent from the main board 11 to the performance control board 12.

When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in the setting confirmation state, it may be in a game stop state in which the progress of the game on the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped. In the game stop state, the launch of game balls by operating the ball-hitting handle, the detection of game balls by various switches, etc. are stopped, and the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, and the normal symbol display device 20 may be controlled to stop displaying a losing symbol or the like, or to display a symbol corresponding to a game stop state other than a losing symbol. When the setting confirmation state ends, the game stop state associated with it may also end.

In the setting change process of step S7, it is determined whether a predetermined setting change condition is met. The setting change condition is met, for example, when power supply is started, the detection signal from the door open sensor 90 is in the ON state, and the setting key 51 is turned ON. The setting change condition may also include the clear signal being in the ON state.

When the setting change condition is met in the setting change process of step S7, the pachinko gaming machine 1 enters a setting change state in which the setting value set therein can be changed, and a setting change start command is sent from the main board 11 to the performance control board 12. In the setting change state, the setting value is displayed on the display monitor 29, and the numerical value displayed on the display monitor 29 is updated and displayed sequentially each time the setting change switch 52 is operated. After that, when the setting key 51 is turned off by an attendant at the game center or the like, the setting value displayed on the display monitor 29 is stored (updated and stored) in the backup area of the RAM 102, and the display monitor 29 is turned off. When the setting change state is to be ended, a setting change end command is sent from the main board 11 to the performance control board 12.

When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in the setting change state, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be in a play stop state, just as when it is in the setting confirmation state. When the setting change state ends, the associated play stop state may also end.

When the performance control board 12 receives a setting check start command or a setting change start command, control may be performed to notify the user that a setting check or change is in progress. For example, a predetermined image may be displayed on the image display device 5, a predetermined sound may be output from the speakers 8L and 8R, or a light-emitting component such as the game effect lamp 9 may be illuminated in a predetermined manner.

The clear signal is turned on by, for example, pressing a clear switch provided on the power supply board 17. Therefore, when power supply is started, if the detection signal from the door open sensor 90 is on and the setting key 51 is on, if the clear switch is on, the initialization process of step S6 and the setting change process of step S7 are executed, making it possible to control the device to the setting change state, and if the clear switch is off, the recovery process of step S4 and the setting confirmation process of step S5 are executed, making it possible to control the device to the setting confirmation state. When power supply is started, if the detection signal from the door open sensor 90 is off or the setting key 51 is off, if the clear switch is on, the initialization process of step S6 is executed but the device is not controlled to the setting change state, and if the clear switch is off, the recovery process of step S4 is executed but the device is not controlled to the setting confirmation state.

After executing the setting confirmation process or setting change process, the CPU 103 executes a random number circuit setting process to initialize the random number circuit 104 (step S8). Then, the register of the CTC built into the game control microcomputer 100 is set so that a timer interrupt occurs periodically at a predetermined time (e.g., every 2 ms) (step S9), and the interrupt is permitted (step S10). After that, a loop process is entered. After that, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 2 ms), and the CPU 103 can execute the timer interrupt process periodically.

When the CPU 103 that has executed the game control main process receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and accepts the interrupt request, it executes the game control timer interrupt process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5. When the game control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 5 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process to determine whether or not detection signals have been received from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 via the switch circuit 110 (step S21). Next, by executing a predetermined main side error process, it performs an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko game machine 1, and can issue a warning if necessary depending on the diagnosis result (step S22). After that, by executing a predetermined information output process, it outputs data such as jackpot information (information indicating the number of jackpots), start information (information indicating the number of start winnings), and probability fluctuation information (information indicating the number of times the game has entered a probability variable state) that are supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko game machine 1 (step S23).

Following the information output process, a game random number update process is executed to update at least a portion of the game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software (step S24). After this, the CPU 103 executes a special symbol process process (step S25). By the CPU 103 executing the special symbol process process at each timer interrupt, the execution and reservation management of the special symbol game, the control of the jackpot game state, the control of the game state, etc. are realized.

Following the special symbol process, the normal symbol process is executed (step S26). The CPU 103 executes the normal symbol process at each timer interrupt, enabling the execution and reservation management of the normal symbol game based on the detection signal from the gate switch 21 (based on the game ball passing through the passing gate 41), and the opening control of the variable winning ball device 6B based on a "normal symbol hit". The normal symbol game is executed by driving the normal symbol display 20, and the number of reserved normal symbols is displayed by lighting the normal symbol reservation display 25C.

After executing the normal symbol process processing, as part of the game control timer interrupt processing, processing when a power outage occurs, processing for paying out prize balls, etc. may be performed. After that, the CPU 103 executes a command control processing (step S27). The CPU 103 may set a performance control command for transmission in each of the above processes. In the command control processing of step S27, a process is performed to transmit the performance control command set for transmission to a sub-side control board such as the performance control board 12. After executing the command control processing, the interrupt is permitted and then the game control timer interrupt processing is terminated.

Figure 6 is a flow chart showing an example of the special symbol process executed in step S25 shown in Figure 5. In this special symbol process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101).

In the start winning judgment process, a process is executed to detect the occurrence of a start winning, store the reserved information in a specified area of the RAM 102, and update the reserved memory number. When a start winning occurs, a random number value for determining the display result (including the type of big win) and the variation pattern is extracted and stored as reserved information. In addition, a process for predicting and judging the display result and the variation pattern based on the extracted random number value may be executed. After the reserved information and the reserved memory number are stored, a transmission setting is performed to transmit a performance control command to the performance control board 12 to specify the judgment results such as the occurrence of a start winning, the reserved memory number, and the predictive judgment. The performance control command at the time of the start winning that has been transmitted and set in this way is transmitted from the main board 11 to the performance control board 12, for example, after the special pattern process is completed, by executing the command control process of step S27 shown in FIG. 5.

After executing the start winning determination process in step S101, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes in steps S110 to S120 depending on the value of the special symbol process flag provided in the RAM 102. Note that in each step of the special symbol process (steps S110 to S120), a transmission setting is made to transmit a performance control command corresponding to each step to the performance control board 12.

The normal special pattern processing in step S110 is executed when the value of the special pattern process flag is "0" (initial value). In this normal special pattern processing, a determination is made as to whether or not to start the first special pattern game or the second special pattern game based on the presence or absence of reserved information. In addition, in the normal special pattern processing, based on a random number value for determining the display result, whether or not the display result of the special pattern or the decorative pattern is to be a "jackpot" and, if it is a "jackpot", the type of jackpot is determined (pre-determined) before the display result is derived and displayed. Furthermore, in the normal special pattern processing, a determined special pattern (either a jackpot pattern or a losing pattern) to be stopped and displayed in the special pattern game is set in response to the determined display result. After that, the value of the special pattern process flag is updated to "1", and the normal special pattern processing is terminated. In addition, the special pattern game using the second special pattern may be executed in priority over the special pattern game using the first special pattern (also called special pattern 2 priority consumption). Also, the order in which the game balls enter the first start winning slot and the second start winning slot may be stored, and the conditions for starting the special game may be met in the order in which the balls enter (also known as winning order consumption).

When making various decisions based on random number values, various tables stored in ROM 101 (tables in which decision values compared with random number values are assigned to decision results) are referenced. The same applies to other decisions on the main board 11 and various decisions on the performance control board 12. On the performance control board 12, various tables are stored in ROM 121.

The fluctuation pattern setting process of step S111 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "1". This fluctuation pattern setting process includes a process of determining one of multiple types of fluctuation patterns using a random number value for determining the fluctuation pattern based on a pre-determined result of whether or not the display result is a "jackpot". In the fluctuation pattern setting process, when a fluctuation pattern is determined, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "2" and the fluctuation pattern setting process ends.

The variation pattern specifies the execution time of the special game (special game variation time) (which is also the execution time of the variable display of the decorative symbols), the manner of the variable display of the decorative symbols (whether or not there is a reach, etc.), and the content of the presentation during the variable display of the decorative symbols (type of reach presentation, etc.), and is also called the variable display pattern.

The special pattern change process of step S112 is executed when the value of the special pattern process flag is "2". This special pattern change process includes a process for making settings to change the special pattern in the first special pattern display device 4A and the second special pattern display device 4B, and a process for measuring the elapsed time since the special pattern started to change. It also determines whether the measured elapsed time has reached the special pattern change time corresponding to the change pattern. Then, when the elapsed time since the special pattern started to change reaches the special pattern change time, the value of the special pattern process flag is updated to "3", and the special pattern change process ends.

The special pattern stop process in step S113 is executed when the value of the special pattern process flag is "3". This special pattern stop process includes a process for setting the first special pattern display device 4A and the second special pattern display device 4B to stop the fluctuation of the special pattern and to stop displaying (deriving) the confirmed special pattern that is the display result of the special pattern. If the display result is a "jackpot", the value of the special pattern process flag is updated to "4". If the display result is a "miss", when the time-saving state or the probability bonus state is controlled and the end of the number-cutting is established, the game state is also updated. When the value of the special pattern process flag is updated, the special pattern stop process ends.

The pre-opening process for the jackpot in step S114 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "4". This pre-opening process for the jackpot includes a process for starting the execution of a round in the jackpot game state and setting the jackpot opening port to an open state, based on the display result being "jackpot", etc. When the jackpot opening port is opened, a process for supplying a solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the jackpot opening port is executed. At this time, for example, depending on the type of jackpot, the maximum open period for the jackpot opening port and the maximum number of rounds to be executed are set. When these settings are completed, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "5", and the pre-opening process for the jackpot is completed.

The jackpot opening process of step S115 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "5". This jackpot opening process includes a process for measuring the time that has elapsed since the jackpot opening was opened, and a process for determining whether or not it is time to return the jackpot opening from an open state to a closed state based on the measured elapsed time and the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23. When the jackpot opening is to be returned to a closed state, a process for stopping the supply of a solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the jackpot opening door is executed, and then the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "6", and the jackpot opening process is terminated.

The post-jackpot opening process of step S116 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "6". This post-jackpot opening process includes a process for determining whether the number of times the round that opens the big prize opening has been executed has reached a set upper limit, and a process for making settings to end the jackpot game state when the upper limit has been reached. When the number of times the round has been executed has not reached the upper limit, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "5", whereas when the number of times the round has been executed has reached the upper limit, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "7". When the value of the special chart process flag is updated, the post-jackpot opening process ends.

The jackpot end process of step S117 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "7". This jackpot end process includes a process of waiting until a waiting time corresponding to the period during which an ending presentation is executed as a presentation operation that notifies the end of the jackpot game state has elapsed, and a process of making various settings for starting special rate control or time-saving control in response to the end of the jackpot game state. When such settings are made, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "0", and the jackpot end process ends.

(Main operations of the performance control board 12)
Next, the main operations of the performance control board 12 will be described. When the performance control board 12 receives a power supply voltage from a power supply board or the like, the performance control CPU 120 starts up and executes the performance control main process as shown in the flowchart of Fig. 9. When the performance control main process shown in Fig. 9 starts, the performance control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined initialization process (step S71), clears the RAM 122, sets various initial values, and sets the registers of the CTC (counter/timer circuit) mounted on the performance control board 12. In addition, it executes an initial operation control process (step S72). In the initial operation control process, control is executed to perform the initial operation of the movable body 32, such as control to drive the movable body 32 to return it to the origin position and control to perform a predetermined operation check.

Then, it is determined whether the timer interrupt flag is on or not (step S73). The timer interrupt flag is set to the on state every time a predetermined time (e.g., 2 milliseconds) elapses, for example based on the register setting of the CTC. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off (step S73; No), the process of step S73 is repeatedly executed and the process waits.

In addition, on the performance control board 12 side, an interrupt occurs to receive a performance control command from the main board 11, in addition to a timer interrupt that occurs every time a predetermined time has elapsed. This interrupt occurs, for example, when the performance control INT signal from the main board 11 becomes ON. When an interrupt occurs due to the performance control INT signal becoming ON, the performance control CPU 120 automatically sets the interrupt to be prohibited, but if a CPU that does not automatically become interrupt prohibited is used, it is desirable to issue an interrupt prohibition command (DI command). In response to an interrupt due to the performance control INT signal becoming ON, the performance control CPU 120 executes, for example, a predetermined command reception interrupt process. In this command reception interrupt process, a performance control command is taken in from a predetermined input port that receives a control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, among the input ports included in the I/O 125. The performance control command taken in at this time is stored in a performance control command reception buffer provided in, for example, the RAM 122. The performance control CPU 120 then sets the interrupt to permitted and ends the command reception interrupt process.

If the timer interrupt flag is on in step S73 (step S73; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared to an off state (step S74), and a command analysis process is executed (step S75). In the command analysis process, for example, various presentation control commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 and stored in the presentation control command reception buffer are read, and then settings and controls corresponding to the read presentation control commands are performed. For example, the read presentation control command is stored in a specified area of the RAM 122, or a reception flag provided in the RAM 122 is turned on so that which presentation control command was received and the contents specified by the presentation control command can be confirmed by the presentation control process process, etc. In addition, if the presentation control command specifies the game state, the display control unit 123 may be instructed to display a background corresponding to the game state.

After executing the command analysis process in step S75, the performance control process is executed (step S76). In the performance control process, for example, control is performed to operate various performance devices, such as the display operation of the performance image in the display area of the image display device 5, the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation of the decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative LEDs, and the driving operation of the movable body 32. In addition, judgments, decisions, settings, etc. are made regarding the control contents of the performance operations using the various performance devices in accordance with the performance control commands, etc. transmitted from the main board 11.

Following the performance control process processing of step S76, a performance random number update process is executed (step S77), and at least a portion of the performance random numbers used on the performance control board 12 side is updated by software. Then, the process returns to step S73. Before returning to step S73, other processes may be executed.

Figure 10 is a flow chart showing an example of the processing executed in step S76 of Figure 9 as the performance control process processing. In the performance control process processing shown in Figure 10, the performance control CPU 120 first executes a look-ahead notice setting process (step S161). In the look-ahead notice setting process, for example, judgments, decisions, settings, etc. for executing the look-ahead notice performance are made based on the performance control command at the time of the start winning transmitted from the main board 11. In addition, processing is executed to display the hold display based on the number of hold memories identified from the performance control command.

After executing the processing of step S161, the performance control CPU 120 selects and executes one of the processing of steps S170 to S175 as described below, depending on the value of a performance process flag provided in, for example, RAM 122.

The variable display start waiting process of step S170 is executed when the value of the presentation process flag is "0" (initial value). This variable display start waiting process includes a process of determining whether or not to start the variable display of the decorative pattern on the image display device 5 based on whether or not a command specifying the start of variable display has been received from the main board 11. If it is determined that the variable display of the decorative pattern on the image display device 5 should be started, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to "1" and the variable display start waiting process ends.

The variable display start setting process of step S171 is a process executed when the value of the performance process flag is "1". In this variable display start setting process, the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern (determined decorative pattern), the mode of the variable display of the decorative pattern, whether or not various performances such as reach performances and various advance notice performances are executed, and the mode and execution start timing are determined based on the display result and the change pattern specified by the performance control command. Then, a performance control pattern (a collection of control data for instructing the display control unit 123 to execute a performance) that reflects the determined result is set. After that, based on the set performance control pattern, the display control unit 123 is instructed to start the execution of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the value of the performance process flag is updated to "2", and the variable display start setting process is terminated. In response to the instruction to start the execution of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the display control unit 123 starts the variable display of the decorative pattern on the image display device 5.

The variable display performance process of step S172 is a process executed when the performance process flag is "2". In this variable display performance process, the performance control CPU 120 instructs the display control unit 123 to display a performance image based on the performance control pattern set in step S171 on the display screen of the image display device 5, to drive the movable body 32, to output voice and sound effects from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the voice control board 13, and to turn on/off/blink the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative LED by outputting a command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14, thereby executing various performance controls during the variable display of the decorative pattern. After performing such performance control, for example, in response to the reading of an end code indicating the end of the variable display of the decorative pattern from the performance control pattern, or the reception of a command specifying the stop display of the fixed decorative pattern from the main board 11, the fixed decorative pattern, which is the display result of the decorative pattern, is stopped. When the final decorative pattern is displayed in a stopped state, the value of the performance process flag is updated to "3" and the performance process during variable display ends.

The special winning wait process of step S173 is executed when the value of the presentation process flag is "3". In this special winning wait process, the presentation control CPU 120 judges whether or not a presentation control command designating the start of a jackpot game state has been received from the main board 11. Then, when a presentation control command designating the start of a jackpot game state is received, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to "4". Also, when a command designating the start of a jackpot game state is not received and the waiting time for receiving the command has elapsed, it is judged that the display result in the special winning game was a "miss", and the value of the presentation process flag is updated to the initial value of "0". When the value of the presentation process flag is updated, the special winning wait process is terminated.

The jackpot performance process of step S174 is executed when the performance process flag value is "6". In this jackpot performance process, the performance control CPU 120 sets, for example, a performance control pattern corresponding to the performance content in the jackpot gaming state, and executes various performance controls in the jackpot gaming state based on the set content. In addition, in the jackpot performance process, for example, in response to receiving a command from the main board 11 specifying that the jackpot gaming state is to end, the value of the performance process flag is updated to "5", which is a value corresponding to the ending performance process, and the jackpot performance process ends.

The ending presentation process of step S175 is executed when the value of the presentation process flag is "7". In this ending presentation process, the presentation control CPU 120 sets a presentation control pattern corresponding to, for example, the end of a jackpot gaming state, and executes various presentation controls for the ending presentation at the end of the jackpot gaming state based on the set contents. After that, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to the initial value "0", and the ending presentation process is terminated.

(Modification of the basic explanation)
This invention is not limited to the pachinko gaming machine 1 described in the basic description above, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 described above is a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes when a prize is won, but it may also be an enclosed type gaming machine that encloses gaming media and awards points when a prize is won.

Only one type of pattern (for example, a symbol showing "- ") may be displayed during the variable display of the special pattern, and the variable display may be achieved by repeatedly turning on and off the pattern. Furthermore, even if the pattern is displayed during the variable display, the pattern may not be displayed when the variable display is stopped (the display result may not include the symbol showing "- ").

In the above basic explanation, a pachinko gaming machine 1 was shown as the gaming machine, but the present invention can also be applied to slot machines (e.g., slot machines equipped with one or more of big bonus, regular bonus, RT, AT, ART, CZ (hereinafter, bonus, etc.)) that can play a game in which medals are inserted and a predetermined bet amount is set, multiple types of symbols are rotated in response to the player's operation of the control lever, and when the symbols are stopped in response to the player's operation of the stop button, a specific combination of symbols is formed, and a predetermined number of medals is paid out to the player.

The programs and data for implementing the present invention are not limited to being distributed or provided to the computer device included in the pachinko gaming machine 1 by a removable recording medium, but may be distributed by being pre-installed in a storage device of the computer device or the like. Furthermore, the programs and data for implementing the present invention may be distributed by being downloaded from another device on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communications processing unit.

The game can be executed not only by inserting a removable recording medium, but also by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory, or by directly executing the game using the hardware resources of another device on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game can be executed by exchanging data with another computer device or the like via a network.

In this specification, expressions of comparison of various percentages such as the execution percentage of a performance (such as "high", "low", "different", etc.) may include one being a percentage of "0%". For example, it also includes one being a percentage of "0%" and the other being a percentage of "100%" or a percentage less than "100%".

This gaming machine may be controlled to time-saving state B (also called rescue time-saving state or rescue time-saving) among multiple types of time-saving states after the power is turned on (when RAM clear processing is executed) or after a jackpot occurs, if the next jackpot does not occur even though the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (900 times in this example) in a low probability state. This rescue time-saving state is provided to rescue players who have played for a long period of time but have not won a jackpot (for example, to reduce investment in games), and in this example, it is a game state called "Yu-time".

In this embodiment, if the multiple types of jackpots are controlled to jackpot A, 110 variable displays are performed in time-saving state A (low probability/high base state) out of the multiple types of time-saving states, so the number of variable displays remaining from the end of time-saving state A to the arrival of the rescue time-saving state is 790, while if the multiple types of jackpots are controlled to either jackpot B or jackpot C, 110 variable displays are performed in the probability variable state (high probability/high base state), so the number of variable displays remaining from the end of the probability variable state to the arrival of the rescue time-saving state is 900. Also, in this embodiment, the number of variable displays in time-saving state B (low probability/high base state) based on the value of the rescue time-saving count counter becoming "0" is 1100.

In this embodiment, in the variable display when the rescue time reduction is reached, a shutter image is displayed on the entire screen of the image display device 5, thereby reducing the visibility of the first background image corresponding to the normal state that was displayed as the background image in the variable display before the rescue time reduction is reached, and then a third background image corresponding to the rescue time reduction is displayed as the background image.

In this embodiment, the left side of the image display device 5 on the game board 2 of the pachinko game machine 1 is formed in a left game area where game balls can flow down, and the right side of the image display device 5 on the game board 2 is formed in a right game area where game balls can flow down. Game balls that are weakly shot by the launching device flow down the first path in the left game area, and game balls that are strongly shot by the launching device flow down the second path in the right game area.

In this embodiment, the special variable winning ball device 7 has a first large winning opening and a second large winning opening formed along the flow direction of the game balls. The first large winning opening can be changed between an open state where game balls can enter and a closed state where game balls cannot enter by driving a large winning opening door (not shown) to open and close by driving a solenoid. The second large winning opening can be changed between an open state where game balls can enter and a closed state where game balls cannot enter by driving a large winning opening door (not shown) to open and close by driving a solenoid.

Furthermore, a first count switch 069SG023A capable of detecting a game ball is provided in the first large prize opening, and a second count switch 069SG023B capable of detecting a game ball is provided in the second large prize opening.

In other words, game balls flowing down the left game area (first path) can win in the general winning port 10 and the first start winning port formed by the winning ball device 6A, and game balls flowing down the right game area (second path) can win in the second start winning port formed by the variable winning ball device 6B, the general winning port 10, and the first or second large winning port formed by the special variable winning ball device 7, and can also pass through the passing gate 41.

In addition, in this embodiment, the switch circuit 110 is connected to the first count switch 069SG023A, the second count switch 069SG023B, and the jackpot start switch 069SG024 built into the jackpot start gate 069SG042.

There are multiple obstacle nails between the winning ball device 6A and the variable winning ball device 6B and the special variable winning ball device 7. For this reason, game balls flowing down the left game area cannot win in the second start winning hole or the large winning hole, and game balls flowing down the right game area cannot win in the first start winning hole.

As shown in FIG. 9, at a predetermined position on the game board 2 of the pachinko game machine 1 in this embodiment (for example, the lower left position of the game area), there are a first special pattern display device 069SG004A capable of variable display of the first special pattern, a second special pattern display device 069SG004B capable of variable display of the second special pattern, a first reserved indicator 069SG025A capable of displaying the first reserved memory number, a second reserved indicator 069SG025B capable of displaying the second reserved memory number, a normal pattern display device 069SG020 capable of variable display of normal patterns, a normal reserved indicator 069SG025C capable of displaying the normal reserved memory number, a jackpot The game information display unit includes a round indicator 069SG131 capable of displaying the number of rounds (jackpot type) of the jackpot game during play, a right-hit lamp 069SG132 that lights up in a game state in which the game ball is shot toward the right game area, such as a jackpot game state, a high probability/high base state (high probability state), or a low probability/high base state (time-saving state), a high probability/high base state (high probability state) lamp 069SG133 that lights up when the game is in a high probability/high base state (high probability state), and a time-saving lamp 069SG134 that lights up in a high probability/high base state (high probability state) and a low probability/high base state (time-saving state). Note that, when the game state is normal, the right-hit lamp 069SG132 exceptionally lights up from the timing when the variable display stops if the variable display result is a jackpot.

As shown in FIG. 9, the main board 11 is equipped with an information output circuit for outputting game information (signals) to an external device such as a management computer of the gaming center where the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed, via a terminal board (not shown).

In this embodiment, the second large prize opening has a V prize opening and a discharge outlet downstream of the V prize opening. In addition, a variable V prize opening device (V lid) is provided upstream of the V prize opening. The variable V prize opening device changes between a closed state and an open state by a solenoid. In other words, the game balls flowing down the second large prize opening can pass through the V prize opening when the variable V prize opening device is in the open state, and cannot pass through the V prize opening and instead flow down to the discharge outlet when the variable V prize opening device is in the closed state.

As shown in FIG. 9, the main board 11 is provided with a V switch 069SG023B1 that can detect, via a switch circuit 110, that the game ball has passed through the V entry port provided downstream of the second large entry port, and an ejection switch 069SG023B2 that can detect that the game ball has passed through the ejection port.

The performance control board 12 is also connected to a vibration motor 61 built into the push button 31B and a movable body motor 207 for operating the movable body 32. The lamp control board 14 is also connected to a right-hit LED 069SG031 for encouraging a right-hit operation, a first special symbol LED 069SG032 that lights up during the variable display of the first special symbol, a second special symbol LED 069SG033 that lights up during the variable display of the second special symbol, a first reserved LED 069SG034A that lights up when the first reserved memory number is 1 to 2, and a first reserved LED 069SG035A that lights up when the first reserved memory number is 3 to 4. 69SG034B, a second pending LED 069SG035A that lights up when the second pending memory number is 1 to 2, a second pending LED 069SG035B that lights up when the second pending memory number is 3 to 4, a button LED 62 built into the push button 31B, a movable body LED 208 built into the movable body 32, and frame LEDs 9L1 to 9L12, 9R1 to 9R12 provided on the gaming machine frame 3 are connected.

Figure 10 (A) is an explanatory diagram illustrating the random number value counted on the main board 11 side. As shown in Figure 10 (A), in this embodiment, on the main board 11 side, in addition to the random number value MR1 for determining the special chart display result, the random number value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, the random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern, the random number value MR4 for determining the normal chart display result, and the random number value MR5 for determining the initial value of MR4 are controlled so that they can be counted. In addition, random number values other than these may be used to enhance the game effect. These random number values MR1 to MR5 may be counted by updating them by software using different random counters in the CPU 103, or may be updated by the random number circuit 104. The random number circuit 104 may be built into the game control microcomputer 100, or may be configured as a random number circuit chip different from the game control microcomputer 100. Such random numbers used to control the progress of the game are also called game random numbers.

In this embodiment, the random numbers MR1 to MR5 are set to the ranges shown in FIG. 10(A), but the present invention is not limited to this, and the ranges of the random numbers MR1 to MR5 may be varied depending on the settings set in the pachinko game machine 1.

In the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 103 executes a program read from the ROM 101 and uses the RAM 102 as a work area to execute various processes for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko game machine 1. The CPU 103 also executes a random number generation program, making it possible to generate all of the various random numbers used on the main board 11 side.

The ROM 101 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 stores various table data used to control the progress of the game in addition to the game control program. For example, the ROM 101 stores table data constituting a plurality of judgment tables prepared for the CPU 103 to make various judgments and decisions. The ROM 101 also stores table data constituting a plurality of control pattern tables used by the CPU 103 to output various control signals from the main board 11, and a variation pattern judgment table that stores a plurality of variation patterns that become the variable display mode of each pattern in the variable display of special patterns, normal patterns, etc.

Figure 10 (B) shows an example of the configuration of the special chart display result judgment table stored in ROM 101. As the special chart display result judgment table, a common special chart display result judgment table is used for the first special chart and the second special chart, but the present invention is not limited to this, and separate special chart display result judgment tables may be used for the first special chart and the second special chart.

The special symbol display result determination table is a table that is referenced to determine whether or not to control the variable display result to a jackpot game state as a "jackpot" before a determined special symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed in a special symbol game using a first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A or a special symbol game using a second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B, based on a random number value MR1 for determining the special symbol display result.

In the special chart display result judgment table, a numerical value (judgment value) that is compared with the random number value MR1 for judging the special chart display result is assigned to the special chart display result of "jackpot" or "miss" depending on whether the game state of the pachinko game machine 1 is a normal state or a time-saving state (low probability state), or a probability change state (high probability state).

In the special chart display result judgment table, the table data indicating the judgment value to be compared with the random number value MR1 for judging the special chart display result is judgment data assigned to the decision result of whether or not to control the special chart display result to a jackpot game state as a "jackpot". In the special chart display result judgment table, when the game state is a probability variable state (high probability state), more judgment values are assigned to the special chart display result of a "jackpot" than when the game state is a normal state or a time-saving state (low probability state). As a result, in the probability variable state (high probability state) in which probability variable control is performed in the pachinko game machine 1, the probability of determining that the special chart display result is a "jackpot" and that the game state is controlled to a jackpot game state is higher (about 1/80.02) than the probability of determining that the special chart display result is a "jackpot" and that the game state is controlled to a jackpot game state when the game state is a normal state or a time-saving state (low probability state) (about 1/319.68). That is, in the special chart display result judgment table, when the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a probability variable state (high probability state), the judgment data is assigned to the decision result of whether or not to control to a jackpot gaming state so that the probability of deciding to control to a jackpot gaming state is higher than when it is in a normal state or a time-saving state.

The judgment tables stored in ROM 101 include the first special symbol display result judgment table and the second special symbol display result judgment table shown in FIG. 7, as well as the jackpot type judgment table (for the first special symbol) shown in FIG. 10 (C1) and the jackpot type judgment table (for the second special symbol) shown in FIG. 10 (C2), as well as a fluctuation pattern judgment table, a normal symbol display result judgment table (not shown), and a normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table (not shown).

The pachinko game machine 1 of this embodiment is configured so that the probability of winning a jackpot (ball payout rate) does not change depending on the set value, but it may also be configured so that the probability of winning a jackpot (ball payout rate) changes depending on the set value.

(Big hit type determination table)
10(C1) and 10(C2) are explanatory diagrams showing the jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) and the jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) stored in the ROM 101. Of these, FIG. 10(C1) is a table for determining the jackpot type using reserved memory based on the game ball winning the first start winning slot (i.e., when the first special symbol is displayed variably). Also, FIG. 10(C1) is a table for determining the jackpot type using reserved memory based on the game ball winning the second start winning slot (i.e., when the second special symbol is displayed variably).

The jackpot type determination table is a table that is referenced when a decision is made to make the variable display result a jackpot pattern, to determine the type of jackpot as one of jackpots A to C, based on the random number (MR2) for determining the jackpot type.

Now, the types of jackpots in this embodiment will be explained with reference to FIG. 10(D). In this embodiment, the jackpot types provided are jackpot A, jackpot B, and jackpot C, for which time-saving control is executed for a maximum of 110 variable displays after the end of the jackpot game state. In addition, these jackpots A, B, and C are also jackpots for which special control is executed for a maximum of 110 variable displays after the end of the jackpot game by the game ball entering the V winning port after entering the second large winning port in the first round of the jackpot game state.

In this embodiment, the open state of the variable V winning ball device (V lid) can be a short open state (e.g., 0.1 seconds) in which the open state lasts for a short period of time, and a long open state (e.g., 15 seconds) in which the open state lasts for a long period of time. In the case of jackpot A, the variable V winning ball device is in a short open state in the first round of the jackpot game state, and in the cases of jackpot B and jackpot C, the variable V winning ball device is in a long open state in the first round of the jackpot game state.

The jackpot game state resulting from "jackpot A" is a normal opening jackpot that changes the second large prize entry port to an open state advantageous to the player in the first round, and changes the first large prize entry port to an open state advantageous to the player in the second to sixth rounds. In addition, with "jackpot A", the variable V prize entry ball device is in a short open state in the first round, making it extremely difficult to get the game ball to enter the V prize entry port, and it is not expected that the special bonus control will be executed, so it is essentially a normal jackpot.

The jackpot game state resulting from "jackpot B" is a normal opening jackpot that changes the second large prize entry port to an open state advantageous to the player in the first round, and changes the first large prize entry port to an open state advantageous to the player in the second to sixth rounds. In addition, with "jackpot B", the variable V prize entry device is in a long open state in the first round, making it extremely easy to get the game ball to enter the V prize entry port, and it is expected that the special chance control will be executed, making it a virtual special chance jackpot.

The jackpot game state resulting from "jackpot C" is a normal opening jackpot that changes the second large prize entry port to an open state advantageous to the player in the first round, and changes the first large prize entry port to an open state advantageous to the player in the second to tenth rounds. In addition, with "jackpot C", the variable V prize entry ball device is in a long open state in the first round, making it extremely easy to get the game ball to enter the V prize entry port, and it is expected that the special chance control will be executed, making it a virtual special chance jackpot.

In this embodiment, three types of jackpots, jackpot A to jackpot C, are provided as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and two or less types of jackpots, or four or more types of jackpots may be provided.

As shown in FIG. 10 (C1), in the jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol), of the range of MR2 determination values from 0 to 299, 0 to 149 is assigned to jackpot A, and 150 to 299 is assigned to jackpot B. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10 (C2), in the jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol), of the range of MR2 determination values from 0 to 299, 0 to 99 is assigned to jackpot B, and 100 to 299 is assigned to jackpot C.

In other words, in this embodiment, when the variable special symbol is the first special symbol, there is a 50% probability that the game ball will enter the V winning hole in the first round of the jackpot game state, and both the special probability control and the time-saving control are implemented after the jackpot game ends. Furthermore, when the variable special symbol is the second special symbol, there is a 100% probability that the game ball will enter the V winning hole in the first round of the jackpot game state, and both the special probability control and the time-saving control are implemented after the jackpot game ends.

In this example, even if a jackpot A occurs, it is possible but extremely rare for a V entry to occur when the V lid is in a short open state, so in the case of a jackpot A, it will be explained as not having a V entry and the special rate control not being executed. Also, even if a jackpot B or jackpot C occurs, it is possible but extremely rare for a V entry not to occur when the V lid is in a long open state, so in the case of a jackpot B or jackpot C, it will be explained as having a V entry and the special rate control being executed.

In this embodiment, the type of jackpot is determined using MR2, which is a random number value for determining the type of jackpot, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the type of jackpot may be determined using MR1, which is a random number value for determining the result of the special chart display.

In addition, in this embodiment, for example, as the jackpot type for the second special symbol, a form having jackpots B and C in which 110 times of probability variable control and time-saving control can be executed after the end of the jackpot game state has been exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a jackpot D in which time-saving control is executed 1009 times (probability variable state: 110 times + time-saving state A: 899 times) after the end of the jackpot game state may be provided. By doing so, interest is increased because it is almost certain that the next jackpot will be won, and even if a jackpot does not occur in the 110 times probability variable state after the end of jackpot D and the probability variable control ends, after 899 variable displays are executed without a jackpot occurring in time-saving state A (low probability/high base state), simply executing one variable display in the normal state will further control to time-saving state B (rescue time-saving state) described later, which increases interest.

(Number of time reductions)
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the number of time-saving times for each transition trigger. As shown in FIG. 11, in this example, when a jackpot A occurs and the game ball does not enter the probability variable area, (1) the time-saving control is performed 110 times, and (2) the low probability control is performed 110 times, and the game enters the probability variable area (in this example, the game enters the time-saving state A (in this example, the time-saving state B is controlled to a battle rush (BATTLE RUSH) in which the time-saving control is performed 110 times). Also, when either a jackpot B or a jackpot C occurs and the game ball enters the probability variable area, (1) the time-saving control is performed 110 times, and (2) the probability variable control is performed 110 times (in this example, the time-saving state C is controlled to a battle rush (BATTLE RUSH) in which the time-saving control is performed 110 times). In addition, when 900 variable displays are performed in a low probability state without being controlled to a jackpot, (1) time-saving control is performed 1100 times, and (2) low probability control is performed 1100 times, and the game is controlled to a time-saving state B (in this example, a time-saving state B of 1100 times (Yu-1100 Battle Rush (Yu-1100 Battle Rush))). However, even if 900 fluctuations are performed again in a low probability state without being controlled to a jackpot after the end of the time-saving state B, the game is not controlled to the time-saving state B again based on this.

In addition, when a losing symbol with time reduction is stopped and displayed in the normal state, (1) the time reduction control is performed 1100 times, and (2) the low probability control is performed 1100 times, so that the game state may be controlled to a time reduction state B (in this example, a play with 1100 time reductions and 1100 battle rushes) in which the time reduction control is performed. In this case, even if a losing symbol with time reduction is stopped and displayed in a high base state (probability change state, time reduction state), the transition control of the game state is not performed (the game state is not controlled to a time reduction state with 1100 time reductions). This is to avoid reducing the degree of relief for the player. For example, if a losing symbol with time reduction is stopped and displayed when the game is controlled in a probability change state where a jackpot is likely to occur, the game state is re-controlled to a time reduction state with 1100 time reductions, which is not preferable because it would be controlled from an advantageous state to an unfavorable state for the player. Therefore, the game can be configured to be controlled to a time-saving state of 1,100 times only if the game state controlled when the time-saving losing symbol is stopped and displayed is normal.

The rescue time-saving achievement rate is the percentage of control to the time-saving state via rescue time-saving. The time-saving state via rescue time-saving is controlled by performing variable display n times (900 times in this example) without being controlled to the jackpot game state, so the rescue time-saving achievement rate K can be calculated as follows.

K = {(1-ML)^n} x 100

(K = rescue time reduction achievement rate, ML = jackpot probability, n = variable display number)
Specifically, for example, if the jackpot probability ML in this embodiment is about 1/319, the rescue time reduction achievement rate K is 5.9%. In the case of a gaming machine that allows the setting of a setting value, if the rescue time reduction achievement rate is set to be higher as the jackpot probability is set to a lower value, the player can be rescued even if the jackpot probability is set to a low value.

(Fluctuation pattern)
12 to 15 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the fluctuation pattern determination table in this embodiment.

Figure 12 shows (A) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a miss when the number of reserved memories in the normal state is 0 to 2, (B) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a miss when the number of reserved memories is 3, and (C) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a jackpot when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3.

As shown in FIG. 12(A), in the fluctuation pattern judgment table for misses when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 2, 9850 judgment values are assigned to non-reach B, 50 judgment values are assigned to SP reach A, 50 judgment values are assigned to SP reach B, and 50 judgment values are assigned to SP reach C. Also, as shown in FIG. 12(B), in the fluctuation pattern judgment table for misses when the number of reserved memories is 3, 9850 judgment values are assigned to shortened non-reach B, 50 judgment values are assigned to SP reach A, 50 judgment values are assigned to SP reach B, and 50 judgment values are assigned to SP reach C.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12(C), in the fluctuation pattern judgment table for jackpots when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3, 100 judgment values are assigned to SP non-via B, 2000 judgment values are assigned to SP reach A, 3600 judgment values are assigned to SP reach B, and 4300 judgment values are assigned to SP reach C. In this way, the jackpot expectancy increases in the order of SP reach A (battle reach) < SP reach B (story reach A) < SP reach C (story reach B). By doing this, you can pay attention to the reach performance that will develop into the next stage.

In addition, FIG. 13 shows (A) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a miss when the number of reserved memories in the special probability state is 0, (B) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a miss when the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3, and (C) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a jackpot when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3.

As shown in FIG. 13(A), in the fluctuation pattern judgment table for misses when the number of reserved memories is 0, 9500 judgment values are assigned to non-reach A, 200 judgment values are assigned to SP reach C, and 300 judgment values are assigned to SP reach D. Also, as shown in FIG. 13(B), in the fluctuation pattern judgment table for misses when the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3, 8500 judgment values are assigned to shortened non-reach A, 1000 judgment values are assigned to non-reach A, 200 judgment values are assigned to SP reach C, and 300 judgment values are assigned to SP reach D.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13(C), in the fluctuation pattern judgment table for a jackpot when the number of reserved memories is 0, 500 judgment values are assigned to SP non-via A, 8000 judgment values are assigned to SP reach C, and 1500 judgment values are assigned to SP reach D.

In addition, FIG. 14 shows (A) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a miss when the number of reserved memories in time-saving state A is 0, (B) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a miss when the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3, and (C) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a jackpot when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3.

As shown in FIG. 14(A), in the fluctuation pattern determination table for misses when the number of reserved memories is 0, 9,500 judgment values are assigned to non-reach A, and 500 judgment values are assigned to SP reach E. Also, as shown in FIG. 14(B), in the fluctuation pattern determination table for misses when the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3, 9,000 judgment values are assigned to shortened non-reach A, 500 judgment values are assigned to non-reach A, and 500 judgment values are assigned to SP reach E.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 14(C), in the fluctuation pattern judgment table for a jackpot when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3, 500 judgment values are assigned to SP non-via A, and 9,500 judgment values are assigned to SP reach E.

In addition, FIG. 15 shows (A) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a miss when the number of reserved memories is 0 in time-saving state B (rescue time-saving state), (B) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a miss when the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3, and (C) a specific example of a fluctuation pattern determination table for a jackpot when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3.

As shown in FIG. 15(A), in the fluctuation pattern determination table for misses when the number of reserved memories is 0, 9700 judgment values are assigned to non-reach A, and 300 judgment values are assigned to SP reach D. Also, as shown in FIG. 15(B), in the fluctuation pattern determination table for misses when the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3, 9700 judgment values are assigned to super-shortened non-reach, and 300 judgment values are assigned to SP reach D.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 15(C), in the fluctuation pattern determination table for a jackpot when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3, 10,000 determination values are assigned to SP Reach D.

As shown in Figures 13(A) and 13(B), the average variable display time of the variable pattern for a miss that can be determined when the number of reserved memories is 0 in the high probability state is approximately 8.2 seconds {((7s x 95) + (40s x 2) + (25s x 3)) ÷ 100 = 8.2}, and the average variable display time of the variable pattern for a miss that can be determined when the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3 is approximately 4.8 seconds {((3s x 85) + (7s x 10) + (40s x 2) + (25s x 3)) ÷ 100 = 4.8}.

Assuming that the first variable display when the probability of a special state begins has a reserved memory number of 0, and that the 2nd to 110th variable display has a reserved memory number of 1 to 3, the average variable display time for a losing variable pattern that can be determined in the probability of a special state is approximately 4.83 seconds {(8.2 + (4.8 x 109)) ÷ 110 = 4.83}.

Also, as shown in FIG. 13(C), the average time of the variable display time of the variable pattern for a jackpot that can be determined in the high probability state when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3 is approximately 51.1 seconds {((22 s x 5) + (55 s x 80) + (40 s x 15)) ÷ 100 = 51.1}, so the average time of the variable display time of the variable pattern for a jackpot that can be determined in the high probability state is approximately 51.1 seconds.

As shown in Figures 14 (A) and (B), in time-saving state A, when the number of reserved memories is 0, the average variable display time of the variable pattern for a miss that can be determined is approximately 9.15 seconds {((7 s x 95) + (50 s x 5)) ÷ 100 = 9.15}, and when the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3, the average variable display time of the variable pattern for a miss that can be determined is approximately 5.55 seconds {((3 s x 90) + (7 s x 5) + (50 s x 5)) ÷ 100 = 5.55}.

Assuming that when time-saving state A starts, the first variable display has a pending memory count of 0, and the 2nd to 110th variable displays have a pending memory count of 1 to 3, the average variable display time of the variable display pattern for a miss that can be determined in time-saving state A is approximately 5.58 seconds {(9.15 + (5.55 x 109)) ÷ 110 = 5.58}.

Also, as shown in FIG. 14(C), the average variable display time of the variable pattern for a jackpot that can be determined when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3 in time-saving state A is approximately 62.8 seconds {((22 s x 5) + (55 s x 95)) ÷ 100 = 62.85}.

As shown in Figures 15(A) and 15(B), in time-saving state B, when the number of reserved memories is 0, the average variable display time of the variable pattern for a miss that can be determined is approximately 7.54 seconds {((7 s x 97) + (25 s x 3)) ÷ 100 = 7.54}, and when the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3, the average variable display time of the variable pattern for a miss that can be determined is approximately 2.205 seconds {((1.5 s x 97) + (25 s x 3)) ÷ 100 = 2.205}.

Assuming that when time-saving state B starts, the first variable display has a pending memory count of 0, and the 2nd to 1100th variable display has a pending memory count of 1 to 3, the average variable display time of the variable display pattern for a miss that can be determined in time-saving state B is approximately 2.2 seconds {(7.54 + (2.205 x 1099)) ÷ 1100 = 2.20985}.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 15(C), the average time of the variable display time of the variable pattern for a jackpot that can be determined in time-saving state B when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3 is approximately 40 seconds, so the average time of the variable display time of the variable pattern for a jackpot that can be determined in time-saving state B is approximately 40 seconds.

In this way, when the number of reserved memories is 0, the number of possible variation patterns for a miss is three for the special state, two for the time-saving state A, and two for the time-saving state B. When the number of reserved memories is 1 to 3, the number of possible variation patterns for a miss is four for the special state, three for the time-saving state A, and two for the time-saving state B.

The average variable display time of the determinable losing variation pattern is 4.83 seconds in the guaranteed bonus state, 5.58 seconds in time-saving state A, and 2.2 seconds in time-saving state B.

In addition, when the number of reserved memories is 0 to 3, the number of variable patterns for a jackpot that can be determined is three for the special state, two for the time-saving state A, and one for the time-saving state B.
In addition, the average variable display time of the determinable jackpot fluctuation pattern is 51.1 seconds in the special state, 62.8 seconds in the time-saving state A, and 40 seconds in the time-saving state B.

In other words, the number of types of variable patterns for misses that can be determined decreases in the order of high probability state, time-saving state A, and time-saving state B (high probability state > time-saving state A > time-saving state B), and the average time of the variable display time of the variable patterns for misses that can be determined decreases in the order of high probability state, time-saving state A, and time-saving state B (high probability state > time-saving state A > time-saving state B).

In addition, the types of variable patterns for big wins that can be determined decrease in the order of special probability state, time-saving state A, and time-saving state B (special probability state > time-saving state A > time-saving state B), and the average time of the variable display time of the variable patterns for big wins that can be determined decreases in the order of special probability state, time-saving state A, and time-saving state B (special probability state > time-saving state A > time-saving state B). In this way, the time-saving state B has fewer types of variable patterns and a shorter variable display period than the special probability state and time-saving state A. In other words, a monotonous and efficient variable display is performed.

In addition, the number of types of fluctuation patterns for misses and types of fluctuation patterns for big wins that can be determined is greater in the special state than in the time-saving state A, but the number of types of fluctuation patterns for big wins may be greater in the time-saving state A than in the special state, or may be the same in the special state and the time-saving state A.

The various fluctuation pattern determination tables shown in Figures 12 to 15 are used in common for the first special symbol and the second special symbol. In particular, in time-saving state B, the fluctuation pattern determination table shown in Figure 15 is used in common for the first special symbol and the second special symbol, so that even if the first start winning occurs in time-saving state B, the number of possible fluctuation pattern types that can be determined is smaller than in the probability bonus state or time-saving state A, and the average variable display time is shorter, resulting in a monotonous and efficient variable display.

In addition, different fluctuation pattern determination tables may be used for the first special symbol and the second special symbol.
In addition, when a V winning occurs in the jackpot game state by "jackpot A", the game state is controlled to a probability variable state in which the probability variable control and the time-saving control are executed after the end of the jackpot game state, similar to "jackpot B" and "jackpot C", so the fluctuation pattern is determined using the fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 13. In addition, when a V winning does not occur in the jackpot game state by "jackpot B" or "jackpot C", the game state is controlled to a time-saving state A in which only the time-saving control is executed after the end of the jackpot game state, similar to "jackpot A", so the fluctuation pattern is determined using the fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 14. In other words, the fluctuation pattern determination table does not use a fluctuation pattern determination table according to the jackpot type, but uses a fluctuation pattern determination table linked to the state after the end of the jackpot game state, since an irregular state may occur in the jackpot game state.

In other words, in a gaming machine that can be controlled to a high probability state after the end of a favorable state (e.g., a jackpot gaming state) based on the passage of a gaming ball through a specific area (e.g., a V winning hole, etc.) in the jackpot gaming state, if a V winning occurs in the jackpot gaming state where a V winning is possible, the machine is controlled to a high probability state after the end of the jackpot gaming state, while if a V winning does not occur in the jackpot gaming state where a V winning is possible, the machine is controlled to a first time-saving state after the end of the jackpot gaming state, and if a V winning does not occur in the jackpot gaming state where a V winning is difficult, the machine is controlled to a second time-saving state after the end of the jackpot gaming state, in which the first time-saving state and the second time-saving state are a common time-saving state, and it is preferable that the variable display period of 1 in the first time-saving state and the second time-saving state is shorter than the variable display period of 1 in the time-saving state B of this embodiment.

(Fluctuation pattern without reach)
In this embodiment, the variation pattern without a reach ("shortened non-reach A, shortened non-reach B", "ultra shortened non-reach", "non-reach A, non-reach B", "non-SP A, non-SP B") is a variation pattern in which a combination of decorative symbols indicating that the reach is not established after the variable display is started and the variable display result is a "miss" or "jackpot" is stopped and displayed. "Shortened non-reach A, shortened non-reach B", "ultra shortened non-reach", "non-reach A, non-reach B", and "non-SP A, non-SP B" are collectively referred to simply as "non-reach" or "non-reach variation pattern". Incidentally, "non-SP A, non-SP B" is a non-reach variation pattern for a jackpot that is a jackpot without the establishment of a reach or SP reach.

In this embodiment, among the fluctuation patterns not involving a reach, when it is determined to be a "non-reach A" fluctuation pattern, the variable display period is 7000 ms, when it is determined to be a "non-SP via A" fluctuation pattern, the variable display period is 7000 + 15000 ms, when it is determined to be a "non-reach B" fluctuation pattern, the variable display period is 12000 ms, when it is determined to be a "non-SP via B" fluctuation pattern, the variable display period is 12000 + 15000 ms, when it is determined to be a "shortened non-reach A" fluctuation pattern, the variable display period is 3000 ms, when it is determined to be a "shortened non-reach B" fluctuation pattern, the variable display period is 5000 ms, and when it is determined to be an "ultra-shortened non-reach" fluctuation pattern, the variable display period is 1500 ms. Of these, the "super-shortened non-reach" variation pattern is a variation pattern that can only be determined in time-shortened state B, and has a shorter variable display period than any of the variation patterns determined when the game is controlled in other game states in which time-shortened control is executed (time-shortened state A, special probability state).

(Fluctuation pattern with SP reach)
In this embodiment, in the variation pattern with the SP reach ("SP reach A", "SP reach B", "SP reach C", "SP reach D", "SP reach E"), after the reach state is established, the SP reach performance is executed as a rock-paper-scissors performance (SP reach A) in which the ally character and the enemy character play rock-paper-scissors to notify whether or not the jackpot has been won, or a battle performance (SP reach B to E) in which the ally character and the enemy character battle to notify whether or not the jackpot has been won, and the final display result is determined and stopped after the rock-paper-scissors performance or the battle performance ends. Here, if the final display result is a "miss", a performance (defeat performance) in which the ally character is defeated by the enemy character is executed. On the other hand, if the final display result is a "jackpot", a performance (victory performance) in which the ally character wins against the enemy character is executed, or a performance (defeat performance) in which the ally character is defeated by the enemy character is executed, and then a performance (revival performance) in which the ally character revives and wins against the enemy character is executed.

A "variation pattern without a reach" is a variation pattern in which the state of the variable display of the decorative pattern does not become a specified reach state and a variable display result is displayed. This includes a variation pattern in which even if there is a reach tease such as a "reach notice" described below, the variable display result is displayed without ultimately becoming a reach state. Also, a "variation pattern with an SP reach" is a variation pattern in which the state of the variable display of the decorative pattern becomes a specified reach state, the reach performance develops, and the SP reach performance is executed, and then the display result is displayed.

The SP Reach jackpot variation pattern (SP Reach A to E) includes a variable display part in which a variable display of decorative symbols is executed, and a post-effect part in which the number of balls expected to be awarded in the jackpot game state is notified in a specific manner after the victory effect and revival effect of the variable display part have ended.

The variable display period of the variable display part is different for each type of SP reach A to E: 45,000 ms for SP reach A, 80,000 ms for SP reach B, 40,000 ms for SP reach C, 25,000 ms for SP reach D, and 50,000 ms for SP reach E. On the other hand, the execution period of the post-performance part is 15,000 ms, which is the same for SP reaches A to E. In this embodiment, the post-performance part is assigned a predetermined period of time (for example, 15,000 ms) in the variable display period, but the predetermined period may be different depending on the type of SP reach. In addition, a fanfare period during a jackpot game state may be assigned to the post-performance part.

In this embodiment, all fluctuation patterns involving a reach are SP reach fluctuation patterns, and an example is given of a form in which a normal reach fluctuation pattern is not set, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a normal reach fluctuation pattern may also be set.

(Main control command)
FIG. 16(A) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a main control command in this embodiment. The main control command is, for example, a two-byte configuration, with the first byte indicating MODE (command classification) and the second byte indicating EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to "1", and the first bit of the EXT data is set to "0". Note that the command form shown in FIG. 16(A) is only an example, and other command forms may be used. In this example, the control command is composed of two control signals, but the number of control signals constituting the control command may be one, or may be three or more.

In the example shown in FIG. 16(A), command 8001H is a first variable display start command that specifies the start of variable display in a special symbol game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A. Command 8002H is a second variable display start command that specifies the start of variable display in a special symbol game using the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B. Command 81XXH is a variation pattern designation command that specifies the variation pattern (variation time) of the decorative symbols and the like that are variably displayed in the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative symbol display areas SKY007, SKY008, and SKY009 in the image display device 5 in response to the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol game. Here, XXH indicates an unspecified hexadecimal number, and may be any value that is set according to the contents of the instruction by the performance control command. In addition, in the variation pattern designation command, different EXT data is set according to the specified variation pattern, etc.

Command 8C00H is a variable display result specification command, which is a presentation control command that specifies a variable display result such as a special pattern or a decorative pattern. In the variable display result specification command, for example, as shown in FIG. 16(B), different EXT data is set depending on the determination result (predetermined result) of whether the variable display result is a "miss" or a "jackpot" ("miss with time reduction"), and the determination result (jackpot type determination result) of which of multiple types of jackpot type should be used if the variable display result is a "jackpot."

In the variable display result designation command, for example, as shown in FIG. 16 (B), command 8C00H is a first variable display result designation command in which the variable display result is "miss". Command 8C01H is a second variable display result designation command that notifies the pre-determined result and the jackpot type determination result that the variable display result is "jackpot" and the jackpot type is "jackpot A". Command 8C02H is a third variable display result designation command that notifies the pre-determined result and the jackpot type determination result that the variable display result is "jackpot" and the jackpot type is "jackpot B". Command 8C03H is a fourth variable display result designation command that notifies the pre-determined result and the jackpot type determination result that the variable display result is "jackpot" and the jackpot type is "jackpot C".
Command 8FXXH is a pattern confirmation command that stops (confirms) the variable display of decorative patterns in each of the decorative pattern display areas SKY007, SKY008, and SKY009 of the "left,""middle," and "right" on the image display device 5, and specifies the pattern confirmation period until the start of the next variable display.

For example, as shown in FIG. 16(C), command 8F00H is a pattern determination command A that ends the variation of the special pattern and sets the pattern determination period to 0.5 seconds. Command 8F01H is a pattern determination command B that ends the variation of the special pattern and sets the pattern determination period to 20 seconds.

In this embodiment, (i) when the rescue time reduction is reached after the RAM clear process is executed, and (ii) when the rescue time reduction is reached after 900 variable displays after a big win, a pattern determination command with different EXT data set is transmitted in the rescue time reduction reaching variation. Specifically, (i) when the rescue time reduction is reached after the RAM clear process is executed, a pattern determination A command is transmitted in which the pattern determination period is 0.5 seconds in the rescue time reduction reaching variation. Also, (ii) when the rescue time reduction is reached after 900 variable displays after a big win, a pattern determination B command is transmitted in which the pattern determination period is 20 seconds in the rescue time reduction reaching variation.

Command 95XXH is a game state designation command that designates the current game state of the pachinko gaming machine 1. In the game state designation command, for example, different EXT data is set depending on the current game state of the pachinko gaming machine 1. As a specific example, command 9500H is a first game state designation command corresponding to a game state in which time-saving control is not performed (low base state, normal state), and command 9501H is a second game state designation command corresponding to a game state in which time-saving control is performed (high base state, time-saving state).

Command E1XXH is a remaining time-saving count notification command that notifies the number of remaining time-saving control times in the time-saving state excluding rescue time-saving (time-saving state A). Command E2XXH is a remaining chance-of-chance-number notification command that notifies the number of remaining chance-of-chance-control times in the chance-of-chance-chance state.

Command F100H is a right-hit LED on notification command that notifies the right-hit LED069SG031 to light up. Command F101H is a right-hit LED off notification command that notifies the right-hit LED069SG031 to light up.

Command 91XXH is a command for specifying the number of times to shorten the time of recovery, and is a performance control command for converting the value of the time-saving counter into a hexadecimal number when the power is restored and specifying it. In the command for specifying the number of times to shorten the time of recovery, different EXT data is set according to each digit (first digit, second digit, third digit, fourth digit) of the value (four-digit value) of the time-saving counter when the power is restored, as shown in FIG. 16(D).
In the recovery time reduction count designation command, for example, as shown in FIG. 16(D), commands 9100H to 910FH are recovery time reduction count designation 1 commands that designate the first digit of the value of the recovery time reduction count. Commands 9110H to 911FH are recovery time reduction count designation 2 commands that designate the second digit of the value of the recovery time reduction count. Commands 9130H to 913FH are recovery time reduction count designation 3 commands that designate the third digit of the value of the recovery time reduction count. Commands 9140H to 914FH are recovery time reduction count designation 4 commands that designate the fourth digit of the value of the recovery time reduction count.

Command 94XXH is a rescue time reduction number designation command, which is a presentation control command that designates the remaining number of variable display times (126 times or less) until the rescue time reduction occurs. In the rescue time reduction number designation command, for example, as shown in FIG. 16(E), different EXT data is set according to the remaining number of variable display times (126 times or less) until the rescue time reduction occurs.
For example, as shown in FIG. 16(E), command 9400H is a rescue time reduction count A designation command specifying that the rescue time reduction has been reached. Command 9401H is a rescue time reduction count B designation command specifying that 1 to 125 times remain until the rescue time reduction is reached. Command 947EH is a rescue time reduction count C designation command specifying that 126 times remain until the rescue time reduction is reached. Command 947FH is a rescue time reduction count D designation command specifying that 127 or more times remain until the rescue time reduction is reached.

Command 96XXH is a rescue time reduction number 2 designation command, which is a performance control command that designates the remaining number of variable displays (in units of 100) until the rescue time reduction occurs. In the rescue time reduction number 2 designation command, for example, a value corresponding to the remaining number of variable displays (in units of 100) until the rescue time reduction occurs is set in the EXT data of the rescue time reduction number 2 designation command. For example, if the remaining number of variable displays until the rescue time reduction occurs is 100, command 9601H is sent as the rescue time reduction number 2 designation command, and if the remaining number of variable displays is 700, command 9607H is sent as the rescue time reduction number 1 designation command. Command 9F00(H) is a customer waiting demonstration display designation command that designates a customer waiting demonstration.

(Game control main processing)
17 is a flow chart showing the game control main process in this embodiment. In this example, the processes in steps S1 to S7, S8 to S9, and S10 to S12 are the same as those shown in FIG.

In this example, when a performance control command to restore power from a power outage is sent in step S7, the CPU 103 checks the value of a rescue time reduction counter for counting the number of variable displays remaining until the rescue time reduction occurs, sets the current rescue time reduction counter value converted to a hexadecimal number, and controls the sending of a rescue time reduction number designation command upon recovery to the performance control CPU 120 (step 069SGS0013).

Next, the CPU 103 sets a value corresponding to the current value of the rescue time reduction counter and controls to send a rescue time reduction number designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 069SGS0014). For example, if the current value of the rescue time reduction counter is between 1 and 125 times, the CPU 103 controls to send command 9401H as the rescue time reduction number designation command. Therefore, in this example, if the RAM clear process is not performed when the gaming machine is turned on and the recovery process is performed, the rescue time reduction number designation command is sent and the remaining number of variable display times until the current rescue time reduction is notified.

In this example, when power is restored after a power outage, a command to specify the number of times to shorten the time for recovery and a command to specify the number of times to shorten the time for recovery are sent separately from the command at the time of recovery, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the EXT data of the command at the time of recovery (e.g., a command to specify power on) sent in step S7 may be configured to be set to a value corresponding to the number of times remaining until the time for recovery is shortened, and then sent.

In addition, when a RAM clear is requested in step S3, when there is no backup data in step S4, or when an abnormality is detected in the backup RAM in step S5, a clear process is performed on the area including the area of the rescue time reduction counter in the initialization process of step S8.

Also, when the CPU 103 transmits a presentation control command instructing initialization in step S9, it sets the rescue time reduction counter to "900" (step 069SGS0015). Therefore, in this example, if the RAM clear process is executed when the gaming machine is powered on, the rescue time reduction counter is set to "900". That is, in this example, if the RAM clear process is executed when the gaming machine is powered on and a jackpot is not generated even after 900 variable displays are executed, rescue time reduction is performed and the time reduction state B is controlled. Note that, in this example, since the presentation control command instructing initialization transmitted in step S9 corresponds to the initial value ("900") set in the rescue time reduction counter, the CPU 103 can also specify the initial value to be set in the rescue time reduction counter based on the transmission of the presentation control command instructing initialization.

Next, the CPU 103 checks the value of the rescue time reduction counter (which is "900" in this example), converts the current value of the rescue time reduction counter into a hexadecimal number, sets the value, and transmits a recovery time reduction count designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 069SGS0016).

In this way, the rescue time reduction counter is set before the timer interrupt process, which is the game progress process, is executed, so that the variable display does not start before the rescue time reduction counter is set, and the number of times until the rescue time reduction can be reliably managed.

In this example, the rescue time reduction counter is initially set to "900" when the RAM clear process is executed when the gaming machine is powered on, but this is not the only option, and the rescue time reduction counter may not be initially set when the RAM clear process is executed. If configured in this way, gameplay can be started from the continuation of the value of the rescue time reduction counter from the previous day, reducing the amount of investment required to reach the rescue time reduction, and the configuration can be such that it is not disadvantageous to the player.

In addition, when configured as described above, the system may be configured so that the initial setting of the rescue time reduction counter is not performed only when the clear switch is detected to be on (step S3; Yes) and the RAM clear process is performed, and the initial setting of the rescue time reduction counter is performed when a RAM abnormality is detected (steps S4, S5; No) and the RAM clear process is performed.

(Time-saving flag, chance flag)
In this embodiment, when any of the conditions for controlling to the time-saving state is satisfied, the time-saving flag can be set. The time-saving flag includes a time-saving flag A and a time-saving flag B. In the following description, erasing (or clearing) the flag may be described as resetting the flag.
The time-saving flag A is set when the game is controlled to the time-saving state A via the jackpot A. This time-saving flag A is set when the jackpot game state of the jackpot A ends, and is erased when the time-saving state A ends (when a jackpot occurs during the time-saving state A, or when the 110 times of time-saving control end and the game is controlled to the normal state).

The time-saving flag B is set when the game is controlled to the time-saving state B controlled via the rescue time-saving. This time-saving flag B is set when 900 variable displays in which the display result is not a jackpot pattern are executed after the RAM is cleared, or when 900 variable displays in which the display result is not a jackpot pattern are executed in a low probability state after the jackpot game state ends, and is erased when the time-saving state B ends (when a jackpot is won during the time-saving state B, when the time-saving control of 1100 times ends and the game is controlled to the normal state, etc.).
The probability variable flag is set when the game is controlled to the probability variable state. In this embodiment, when a V is won in the first round of a jackpot game, the probability variable flag is set when the game state is controlled to the probability variable state when the jackpot game ends. This probability variable flag is erased when the probability variable state ends (when a jackpot occurs during the probability variable state, when the 110th probability variable control is executed and the game is controlled to the normal state, etc.). For example, when the step 069SGS69A in FIG. 19 described later is judged to be YES, the probability variable flag is erased based on the fact that the variable display has been controlled to the probability variable state for the 110th time.

(Special pattern normal processing)
18 and 19 are flow charts showing the normal special symbol processing (step S110) in the special symbol process processing. In the normal special symbol processing, the CPU 103 checks the value of the total reserved memory number (step 069SGS51). Specifically, the count value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total number of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number is checked. If the total reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 103 checks whether the second reserved memory number is 0 or not (step 069SGS52). Specifically, the value of the second reserved memory number counter for counting the second reserved memory number is checked whether it is 0 or not. If the second reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 103 sets data indicating "second" to the special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether the special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or the second special symbol) (step 069SGS53). If the second reserved memory count is 0 (i.e., if only the first reserved memory count is accumulated), the CPU 103 sets data indicating "first" to the special pattern pointer (step 069SGS54).

In this embodiment, the processing of steps 069SGS52 to S54 is executed, so that the variable display of the second special symbol is executed with priority over the variable display of the first special symbol. In other words, the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol is controlled to be satisfied with priority over the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol.

In addition, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown in this example, and may be configured to execute the variable display of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second special symbol in the order in which the game balls enter the first start winning slot and the second start winning slot, for example.

Next, the CPU 103 reads out the random number values stored in the storage area in the RAM 102 corresponding to the reserved memory number=1 indicated by the special symbol pointer, and stores them in the random number buffer area of the RAM 102 (step 069SGS55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 103 reads out the random number values stored in the storage area in the first reserved memory number buffer corresponding to the first reserved memory number=1, and stores them in the random number buffer area of the RAM 102. Also, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the CPU 103 reads out the random number values stored in the storage area in the second reserved memory number buffer corresponding to the second reserved memory number=1, and stores them in the random number buffer area of the RAM 102.

Then, the CPU 103 subtracts one from the count value of the reserved memory number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step 069SGS56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 103 subtracts one from the count value of the first reserved memory number counter, and shifts the contents of each storage area in the first reserved memory number buffer. Also, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the CPU 103 subtracts one from the count value of the second reserved memory number counter, and shifts the contents of each storage area in the second reserved memory number buffer.
That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates "1st", the CPU 103 stores each random number stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 102 in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n-1. Also, when the special symbol pointer indicates "2nd", the CPU 103 stores each random number stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 102 in a storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n-1.

Therefore, the order in which the random numbers stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to each first pending memory number (or each second pending memory number) are extracted always matches the order of the first pending memory number (or second pending memory number) = 1, 2, 3, 4.

Then, the CPU 103 reduces the value of the combined pending memory count by 1. That is, the count value of the combined pending memory count counter is decremented by 1 (step 069SGS57). The CPU 103 stores the value of the combined pending memory count counter before the count value is decremented by 1 in a specified area of the RAM 102.

Next, the CPU 103 reads the random number for hit determination from the random number buffer area (step 069SGS61) and executes the jackpot determination module (step 069SGS62). In this case, the CPU 103 reads the random number for hit determination extracted in the start winning determination process (step S101) and stored in advance in the first reserved memory buffer or the second reserved memory buffer, and performs a jackpot determination. The jackpot determination module is a program that executes a process to compare a predetermined jackpot determination value with the random number for hit determination, and decides that a jackpot has occurred if they match. In other words, it is a program that executes a jackpot determination process. In this case, if the probability variable flag indicating that the jackpot state is in a probability variable state is not set (if the state is in a low probability state), the CPU 103 performs a jackpot determination using a jackpot determination value for low probability. Also, if the probability variable flag is set (if the state is in a high probability state), the CPU 103 performs a jackpot determination using a jackpot determination value for high probability. When the value of the random number for determining a win matches any of the jackpot determination values, the CPU 103 determines that the special symbol is a jackpot.

If it is determined that the jackpot is a jackpot (step 069SGS63; Yes), the CPU 103 sets a jackpot flag indicating that the jackpot is a jackpot (step 069SGS64). Then, the CPU 103 determines the type of the jackpot to be the type (jackpot A, jackpot B, jackpot C) corresponding to the value that matches the value of the type determination random number stored in the random number buffer area (step 069SGS65). In this case, the CPU 103 reads out the type determination random number extracted in the start winning determination process (step S101) and stored in the first reserved memory buffer or the second reserved memory buffer in advance, and determines the type of the jackpot. Then, the process proceeds to step 069SGS70. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the jackpot is a jackpot (step 069SGS63; No), the process proceeds to step 069SGS66.
In this example, by performing the normal special pattern processing, a rescue time-saving condition (reducing the value of the rescue time-saving counter to "0") for controlling to rescue time-saving regardless of the variable display result (jackpot, miss) can occur. In this example, the time-saving state A is set based on the occurrence of a jackpot A, and the time-saving state B is set based on the occurrence of no next jackpot even after the variable display has been completed a predetermined number of times (900 times in this example), but it is assumed that the variable display result of the variable display in which the rescue time-saving condition is established will be a jackpot. Therefore, when the variable display result of the variable display in which the rescue time-saving condition is established is a jackpot, the time-saving state A is set based on the jackpot.

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the time-saving counter for counting the number of times the variable display is executed during the time-saving state is 0 (step 069SGS66). If the value of the time-saving counter is not 0, the CPU 103 subtracts 1 from the value of the time-saving counter (step 069SGS67), and checks whether the value of the time-saving counter after the subtraction is 0 (step 069SGS68). If the value of the time-saving counter after the subtraction is 0, the CPU 103 sets a time-saving end flag indicating that the time-saving state will end when the variable display ends (step 069SGS69).

In this example, steps 069SGS66 to 069SGSS69 are executed to perform the subtraction process of the time-saving counter before the count process of the variable display number until the rescue time-saving after step 069SGS71, but the processing is not limited to this. For example, the subtraction process of the time-saving counter may be executed after the count process of the variable display number until the rescue time-saving after step 069SGS71. In this case, for example, in the case of a variable display that is a rescue time-saving, if the subtraction process is executed after setting the time-saving counter to "110" (see step 069SGS172), the value of the time-saving counter will be subtracted by 1 extra, so in the case of a variable display that is a rescue time-saving, the value of the time-saving counter may be added by 1 again after the subtraction process. Also, the time-saving counter may be set to "111", which is 1 more than the previous value.

Then, the CPU 103 checks whether the high probability flag is set (step 069SGS69A). If the high probability flag is set (i.e., the game is in a high probability state), the process proceeds to step 069SGS84. In this example, the process of step 069SGS69A is executed, and if the game is in a high probability state, the process of steps 069SGS70 and after (particularly the process of step 069SGSS71) is not executed. Therefore, even if a variable display is executed when the game state is in a high probability state (in this example, during Extreme Battle Rush), the value of the rescue time reduction counter is not decremented. If the high probability flag is not set (i.e., the game is not in a high probability state), the process proceeds to step 069SGSS70.

In this embodiment, when the high probability flag is set, the process proceeds to step 069SGSS84 without executing the processes after step 069SGSS70. However, this is not limited to the above. When the high probability flag is set, the process proceeds to step 069SGSS70, but the process of step 069SGSS71 may not be executed. In other words, the value of the rescue time reduction counter is not updated, but a rescue time reduction number designation command or rescue time reduction number 2 designation command corresponding to the value of the unupdated rescue time reduction counter may be sent.

Next, the CPU 103 judges whether the value of the rescue time reduction counter is 0 (step 069SGS70; Yes). If the value of the rescue time reduction counter is 0 (step 069SGS70; Yes), the process proceeds to step 069SGS84. If the value of the rescue time reduction counter is 0 at this point, this is a timing after the game has already been controlled to the time reduction state (time reduction state B) via the rescue time reduction (a timing when the game is controlled to the time reduction state B, or when the game is controlled to the normal state after 1100 fluctuations in the time reduction state B), and a jackpot, which is the trigger for setting the rescue time reduction counter to 900, has not occurred. Also, if the value of the rescue time reduction counter is not 0 (step 069SGS70; No), the value of the rescue time reduction counter is decremented by 1 (step 069SGS71). Also, in this example, by executing the processing of step 069SGS71, the value of the rescue time reduction counter is updated uniformly regardless of whether the variable display of the first special pattern is executed or the variable display of the second special pattern is executed.

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the rescue time reduction counter after subtraction is 127 or more (step 069SGS72). If the value of the rescue time reduction counter after subtraction is 126 or less (step 069SGS72; No), the CPU 103 sets a value corresponding to the value of the rescue time reduction counter to the EXT data and controls the transmission of a rescue time reduction number designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 069SGS73). For example, if the value of the rescue time reduction counter is 1, the CPU 103 controls the transmission of command 9401H as the rescue time reduction number designation command. Also, if the value of the rescue time reduction counter is 126, the CPU 103 controls the transmission of command 947EH as the rescue time reduction number designation command.

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the rescue time reduction counter after subtraction is 0 (step 069SGS74). If the value of the rescue time reduction counter after subtraction is not 0, the process proceeds to step 069SGS84. If the value of the rescue time reduction counter after subtraction is 0, the CPU 103 sets a rescue time reduction determination flag indicating that the rescue time reduction has occurred and that control will be made to time reduction state B at the end of the fluctuation (step 069SGS75). Then, the process proceeds to step 069SGS84.

On the other hand, if the value of the rescue time reduction counter after subtraction is 127 or more (step 069SGS72; Yes), the CPU 103 sets 7FH uniformly as the EXT data and controls to transmit the command 957FH as the rescue time reduction number designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 069SGS76). Next, the CPU 103 checks whether the remaining variable display number until the rescue time reduction is a number in units of 100 (in this example, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, or 800) (step 069SGS77). It should be noted that whether the remaining variable display number until the rescue time reduction is a number in units of 100 can be determined by checking the value of the rescue time reduction counter. If the remaining variable display count until the rescue time reduction is in units of 100, the CPU 103 sets a value corresponding to the value of the rescue time reduction counter in the EXT data, and controls to transmit a rescue time reduction count 2 designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 069SGS78). For example, if the value of the rescue time reduction counter is 100, the CPU 103 controls to transmit command 9601H as the rescue time reduction count 2 designation command. Also, if the value of the rescue time reduction counter is 800, the CPU 103 controls to transmit command 9608H as the rescue time reduction count 2 designation command. Then, the process proceeds to step 069SGS84.
In this example, the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the CPU 103) counts the number of remaining variable display times until the rescue time reduction and transmits the rescue time reduction number designation command or the rescue time reduction number 2 designation command, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the CPU 120 for effect control may be configured to count the number of remaining variable display times until the rescue time reduction and execute the later-described teasing effect or countdown effect.
In addition, for example, if the rescue time reduction counter is set (to "900") at the time when the rescue time reduction occurs so that rescue time reductions can occur consecutively, the rescue time reduction number designation command or the rescue time reduction number 2 designation command may be sent only the first time the rescue time reduction occurs, and the rescue time reduction number designation command or the rescue time reduction number 2 designation command may not be sent the second or subsequent time the rescue time reduction occurs.

Next, the CPU 103 determines the stopping pattern of the special pattern according to the result of the determination of the jackpot type (step 069SGS84). In this case, for example, if it is determined to be a jackpot A, the stopping pattern of the special pattern is determined to be "2", if it is determined to be a jackpot B, the stopping pattern of the special pattern is determined to be "3", if it is determined to be a jackpot C, the stopping pattern of the special pattern is determined to be "7", and if it is determined to be a miss, the stopping pattern of the special pattern is determined to be "-". The CPU 103 also stores the determined stopping pattern of the special pattern in a stopping pattern storage area provided in the RAM 102 (step 069SGS85).

Then, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special pattern process flag to a value corresponding to the variable pattern setting process (step S111) (step 069SGS86).

(Special symbol stop processing)
20 is a flow chart showing the special symbol stop process (step S113) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 103 first subtracts 1 from the value of the symbol determination period timer (step 069SGS131), and checks whether the value of the symbol determination period timer after subtraction is 0 (step 069SGS132).

If the value of the pattern determination period timer after subtraction is not 0 (i.e., the determined display period of the stopped pattern of the first special pattern or the second special pattern has not yet ended), the special pattern stop process is ended. If the value of the pattern determination period timer after subtraction is 0 (i.e., the determined display period of the stopped pattern of the first special pattern or the second special pattern has ended), the CPU 103 checks whether the jackpot flag is set (step 069SGS133). If the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 103 clears the probability change flag, time-saving flag A, time-saving flag B, rescue time-saving decision flag, and the time-saving count counter for counting the number of times the variable display is executed during the time-saving state (step 069SGS134).
Next, the CPU 103 sets the rescue time-saving counter to "900" (step 069SGS135). Therefore, in this example, the rescue time-saving counter is set to "900" in response to a jackpot, and if the next jackpot does not occur even after 900 variable displays are executed in the low probability state after the jackpot game ends, the rescue time-saving state is entered and the game is controlled to the time-saving state B.

In this example, by executing the processing of step 069SGS135, when a jackpot is hit, the rescue time reduction counter is set to "900" at the start of the fanfare period of the jackpot to initialize it, but this is not the only possible embodiment. For example, the rescue time reduction counter may be set to "900" during a round of jackpot play, or may be configured to be initially set to "900" at the start or end of the ending period of the jackpot play.

Next, the CPU 103 performs control to start lighting the right hit lamp 069SG132 (step 069SGS136). The CPU 103 also performs control to send a right hit LED lighting notification command to the performance control CPU 120 to notify the lighting of the right hit LED 069SG031 (step 069SGS137).

Next, the CPU 103 controls the transmission of a jackpot start command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 069SGS138). Next, the CPU 103 sets a timer for time before the large prize opening to measure the time before the large prize opening (fanfare time) until the first large prize opening 069SG007A and the second large prize opening 069SG007B are controlled to be open (step 069SGS139). Then, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot opening pre-processing (step S144) (step 069SGS140).

If the jackpot flag is not set (step 069SGS133; No), the CPU 103 checks whether the rescue time-shortening determination flag is set (step 069SGS170). If the rescue time-shortening determination flag is set, the CPU 103 resets the rescue time-shortening determination flag (step 069SGS171), and if it is set, sets the time-shortening flag B and controls the game to the time-shortening state (step 069SGS171A). Then, the time-shortening count counter is set to "1100" (step 069SGS172).

The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a time-saving state B designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 069SGS174). The CPU 103 also controls the start of illumination of the right hit lamp 069SG132 (step 069SGS174A), and controls the transmission of a right hit LED illumination notification command to the performance control CPU 120 notifying illumination of the right hit LED 069SG031 (step 069SGS174B). Then, the process proceeds to step 069SGS175.

In this example, when the time reduction occurs, the time reduction state is simply controlled to B, and the time reduction counter is not set, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, when the time reduction occurs, the time reduction state may be controlled to B, and the time reduction counter may be set (set to "900"). With such a configuration, it is possible to continuously generate the time reduction, and once the time reduction occurs, the time reduction state may be continued until a jackpot occurs.
In addition, in this example, the rescue time reduction counter is set to "900" when it is set, and the value of the rescue time reduction counter is subtracted by one each time variable display is executed, and rescue time reduction is generated based on the value of the rescue time reduction counter becoming "0", but this is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the rescue time reduction counter may be configured to be set to "0" when it is set, and to be incremented by one each time variable display is executed, and rescue time reduction is generated based on the value of the rescue time reduction counter becoming "900".

In this example, the process of step 069SGS172 is executed to set the number of time-saving times to 1100, which is greater than the number of variable display times (900) until a rescue time-saving time is generated, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the time-saving time counter may be set to a value equal to or less than "900" in step 069SGS172.

In addition, in step 069SGS172, the time-saving counter may be configured to be able to set values corresponding to multiple types of time-saving times. For example, the time-saving counter may be configured to be set to "110" if a rescue time-saving is performed the first time, and to be set to "1100" if a rescue time-saving is performed the second time.

Also, for example, the number of time-saving times may be determined by performing a lottery process based on random numbers, and in step 069SGS172, a value corresponding to the number of time-saving times determined by the lottery process may be set in the time-saving times counter. In this case, for example, the number of time-saving times may be determined to be 110 times with a 10% probability, and 1100 times with a 90% probability. Also, when the number of time-saving times is determined by a lottery process, the number of time-saving times may be determined by using the type-determining random numbers used to determine the jackpot type and the time-saving time type, or the number of time-saving times may be determined by using a dedicated random number.

If the rescue time-saving determination flag is not set in step 069SGS170, the CPU 103 checks whether the time-saving end flag is set (step 069SGS141). If the time-saving end flag is set, the CPU 103 resets the time-saving end flag (step 069SGS142).

Next, the CPU 103 resets any of the time-saving flags that have been set (either time-saving flag A or B) and ends the time-saving state (step 069SGS145). Then, the CPU 103 performs control to end the illumination of the right-hit lamp 069SG132 (step 069SGS150). The CPU 103 also performs control to send a right-hit LED off notification command to the performance control CPU 120 to notify the right-hit LED 069SG031 that it has been turned off (step 069SGS151). The CPU 103 also performs control to send a normal state designation command (a type of game state designation command) to the performance control CPU 120 (step 069SGS152). Then, the process proceeds to step 069SGS175.

In this example, the process of steps 069SGS141 to S152 is executed to transition to the normal state at the end of the pattern determination period during the final time-saving fluctuation and to end the right-hit notification, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the system may be configured to transition to the normal state and end the right-hit notification at the start of the fluctuation or the start of the pattern determination period during the final time-saving fluctuation.

Also, if the time-saving end flag is not set in step 069SGS141 (step 069SGS141; No), the process proceeds to step 069SGS175.

In step 069SGS175, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special pattern process flag to a value corresponding to the normal special pattern processing (step S110) (step 069SGS175).

Figure 22 is a flow chart showing the variable display start setting process (step S171) in the performance control process shown in Figure 8. In the variable display start setting process, the performance control CPU 120 first determines whether the first variable display start command reception flag is on or not (step 213SGS271). If the first variable display start command reception flag is on (step 213SGS271; Y), the various command data and various flags stored in association with buffer numbers "1-0" to "1-4" of the first special chart reserved memory in the start winning time reception command buffer are shifted up by one buffer number at a time (step 213SGS272). Note that the contents of buffer number "1-0" cannot be shifted because there is no destination to shift to, so it is erased.

Specifically, the various command data and flags stored in association with buffer number "1-1" of the first special chart reserved memory are shifted to be stored in association with buffer number "1-0", the various command data and flags stored in association with buffer number "1-2" of the first special chart reserved memory are shifted to be stored in association with buffer number "1-1", the various command data and flags stored in association with buffer number "1-3" of the first special chart reserved memory are shifted to be stored in association with buffer number "1-2", and the various command data and flags stored in association with buffer number "1-4" of the first special chart reserved memory are shifted to be stored in association with buffer number "1-3".

Also, if the first variable display start command reception flag is off in step 213SGS271 (step 213SGS271; N), it is determined whether the second variable display start command reception flag is on (step 213SGS273). If the second variable display start command reception flag is off (step 213SGS273; N), the variable display start setting process is terminated, and if the second variable display start command reception flag is on (step 213SGS273; Y), the various command data and various flags stored in association with the buffer numbers "2-0" to "2-4" of the second special chart reservation memory in the start winning time reception command buffer are shifted up by one buffer number at a time (step 213SGS274). Note that the contents of buffer number "2-0" cannot be shifted because there is no destination to shift to, so it is erased.

Specifically, the various command data and flags stored in association with buffer number "2-1" of the second special chart reserved memory are shifted to be stored in association with buffer number "2-0", the various command data and flags stored in association with buffer number "2-2" of the second special chart reserved memory are shifted to be stored in association with buffer number "2-1", the various command data and flags stored in association with buffer number "2-3" of the second special chart reserved memory are shifted to be stored in association with buffer number "2-2", and the various command data and flags stored in association with buffer number "2-4" of the second special chart reserved memory are shifted to be stored in association with buffer number "2-3".

After executing step 213SGS272 or step 213SGS274, the performance control CPU 120 reads the variation pattern designation command from the variation pattern designation command storage area (step 213SGS275).

Next, the display result (stopping pattern) of the decorative pattern is determined according to the data stored in the display result designation command storage area (i.e., the received display result designation command) and the variation pattern (step 213SGS276). In this case, the performance control CPU 120 determines the stopping pattern of the decorative pattern according to the display result designated by the display result designation command, and stores data indicating the determined stopping pattern of the decorative pattern in the decorative pattern display result storage area.

Then, the performance control CPU 120 executes a preview performance determination process (step 213SGS277) to determine whether or not to execute a preview performance in the variable display and the performance pattern of the preview performance to be executed, and a chance up performance determination process (step 213SG278) to determine whether or not to execute a chance up performance in the variable display. Then, a process table according to whether or not a chance up performance is executed and the variation pattern is selected (step 213SGS286), and a process timer is started (step 213SGS287).

In addition, in the process table, display control execution data for controlling the display of the image display device 5, lamp control execution data for controlling the lighting of each LED, sound control execution data for controlling the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and operation unit control execution data for controlling the operation of the push button 31B and stick controller 31A are arranged in chronological order in correspondence with each process data n (numbers 1 to N).

Then, the performance control CPU 120 executes control of the performance device (image display device 5 as a performance component, various lamps as performance components, speakers 8L, 8R as performance components, and operation unit (push button 31B, stick controller 31A, etc.)) according to the contents of process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound control execution data 1, operation unit control execution data 1) (step 213SGS288). For example, to display an image corresponding to a fluctuation pattern on the image display device 5, it outputs a command to the display control unit 123. It also outputs a control signal (lamp control execution data) to the lamp control board 14 to control the lighting/extinguishing of various lamps. It also outputs a control signal (sound number data) to the sound control board 13 to output sound from the speakers 8L, 8R.

Then, the variable display time timer is set to a value corresponding to the variable display time specified by the variation pattern designation command (step 213SGS289). A predetermined time is also set to the variable display control timer (step 213SGS290). The predetermined time is, for example, 30 ms, and the performance control CPU 120 writes image data indicating the display state of the left, center, and right decorative patterns to the VRAM every time the predetermined time elapses, and the display control unit 123 outputs a signal corresponding to the image data written to the VRAM to the image display device 5, and the image display device 5 displays an image corresponding to the signal, thereby realizing the variable display (variation) of the decorative patterns. Next, the value of the performance control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variable display in progress performance process (step S172), and the variable display start setting process is terminated (step 213SGS291).

Figure 23 is a flowchart of the preview performance determination process shown in Figure 22. In the preview performance determination process, the performance control CPU 120 first identifies the variable display result and the fluctuation pattern (step 213SG301). Then, it is determined whether the identified fluctuation pattern is any of the shortened non-reach fluctuation patterns (PA1-2, PA1-3, PA1-4) (step 213SGS302). If the identified fluctuation pattern is any of the shortened non-reach fluctuation patterns (PA1-2, PA1-3, PA1-4) (step 213SGS302; Y), the preview performance determination process is terminated, and if the identified fluctuation pattern is not any of the shortened non-reach fluctuation patterns (step 213SGS302; N), the presence or absence of the preview performance and the performance pattern are determined based on the identified variable display result and fluctuation pattern (step 213SGS303).

The performance control CPU 120 judges whether or not it has been decided in step 213SGS303 to execute a preview performance (step 213SGS304). If it has been decided in step 213SGS303 not to execute a preview performance (step 213SGS304; N), the preview performance decision process is terminated. If it has been decided in step 213SGS303 to execute a preview performance (step 213SGS304; Y), the decided performance pattern is stored (step 213SGS305), a preview performance start waiting timer is set, and the preview performance decision process is terminated (step 213SGS306).

Figure 24 is a flow chart showing an example of the pre-reading notice setting process executed in step S161 of Figure 8. In the pre-reading notice setting process shown in Figure 24, the performance control CPU 120 first checks the memory contents in the start winning time reception command buffer 194A (step S701). Then, it is determined whether there is a new received command that is at least one of the commands at the start winning time (step S702). For example, the presence or absence of a received command can be determined by checking whether at least one of the start winning time entry designation command, pattern designation command, variable category command, or reserved memory number notification command is newly stored in the start winning time reception command buffer. If no new command has been received (step S702; No), the pre-reading notice determination process is terminated.

If it is determined in step S702 that a command has been received (step S702; Yes), it is determined whether or not a preview performance is already being executed (step S703).

In this embodiment, when a look-ahead preview performance is already being executed, processing to execute a further look-ahead preview performance is not performed, and the look-ahead preview performance is executed in the performance mode already determined. On the other hand, when a look-ahead preview performance is being executed based on a winning time judgment result that the variable display mode is determined to be "non-reach", if a winning time judgment result is obtained that the variable display result is determined to be "jackpot" or that the variable display pattern is determined to be one involving a reach, the look-ahead preview performance currently being executed may be switched to a super reach or jackpot preview performance. Note that, regardless of the performance mode of the look-ahead preview performance already being executed, further look-ahead preview performances may be executed.

If the pre-reading notice performance is not being executed in step S703 (step S703; No), it is determined whether or not the pre-reading notice performance is being restricted, which restricts the execution of the pre-reading notice performance (step S704). If the pre-reading notice is not being restricted in step S704 (step S704; No), the order and contents of the received commands based on the occurrence of the start winning are checked (step S706) to determine whether or not they were received normally (step S707). In the processing of step S707, for example, confirmation is made as to whether the received commands at the time of the start winning are in order, whether or not they were all received without missing, whether or not the contents of the pattern designation command and the variable category command are consistent, whether or not the contents of the start opening winning designation command and the reserved memory number notification command are consistent, etc., and if any one of them is denied, it may be determined that the reception was not normal. Note that it is not limited to determining that an abnormality has occurred when any one of them is denied, and it may be determined that an abnormality has occurred when any two of them are denied, for example. Alternatively, it may be determined that an abnormality has occurred when all of them are denied.

If it is determined in step S707 that the command has been received normally (step S707; Yes), the previous variable category commands stored in the start winning reception command buffer 194A are checked (step S708), and it is determined whether the current number of reserved commands is "3" or "4" and whether the previous variable categories were all non-reach misses (step S709). That is, in this embodiment, if there are two or three reserved data whose variable display result is "non-reach miss", the reserved data is used to execute the continuous preview performance.

In addition, if the number of reserved memories is sufficient to execute a continuous preview performance (for example, if it is 2 or more), it may be possible to execute the continuous preview performance. For example, other than a preview pattern in which the performance mode changes, such as the continuous preview performance (pre-reading preview performance) of the look-ahead preview pattern SYP3-1 described below, the continuous preview performance may be executed when the number of reserved memories is sufficient to indicate that it is a series of performances. In this way, the overall execution frequency of the continuous preview performance can be improved.

In addition, when executing a pre-reading preview performance other than a stopping pattern preview, a continuous preview performance may be executed even if pending data that results in a "non-reach miss" variable display result is included. In this way, a reach may occur or a "jackpot" may be obtained during the execution of the continuous preview performance, allowing for an unexpected performance to be executed. When executing a continuous preview performance when pending data that results in a "non-reach miss" variable display result is included, for example, in a variable display that involves a reach, a continuous preview performance with a performance mode other than a stopping pattern preview may be selected. In this way, a continuous preview performance can be executed regardless of the display result before the variable display that is the subject of the pre-reading is executed.

For example, in the process of step S708, the number of data received up to the latest variable category command and stored in the start winning reception command buffer 194A, and the variable category specified by the variable category command are read. In the process of step S709, it is determined based on the reading result in step S708 whether the number of data is "3" or "4", or whether the data only specifies the variable category corresponding to a non-reach miss (variable category command C600).
In step S709, if it is determined that the current number of pending memories is "3" or "4" and the only variable categories up to the previous time were non-reach misses (step S709; Yes), a determination is made as to whether or not to execute a look-ahead preview performance, and a look-ahead preview pattern corresponding to the performance mode of the look-ahead preview performance if the look-ahead preview performance is executed (step S710).

As an example, in the process of step S710, a pre-preview notice determination table prepared in advance is selected and set as a table to be used for determining the presence or absence of a pre-preview notice performance and the pre-preview notice pattern. In the pre-preview notice determination table, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random value for determining the pre-preview notice type may be assigned to a determination result of "no execution" corresponding to the case where the pre-preview notice performance is not executed, or to multiple pre-preview notice patterns when the pre-preview notice performance is executed, depending on the specified content of the variable category command transmitted based on the occurrence of a start winning corresponding to the variable display to be notified. After that, the performance control CPU 120 may determine the presence or absence of a pre-preview notice performance and the pre-preview notice pattern by referring to the pre-preview notice determination table based on the numerical data indicating the random value for pre-preview notice determination extracted from, for example, the random number circuit 124 or the random counter of the performance control counter setting unit 193.

In the processing of step S710, it is sufficient to determine whether or not a preview performance will be performed and the preview pattern.

Based on the decision made by the process of step S710, it is determined whether or not the pre-reading notice performance is "not executed" (step S711). At this time, if it is other than "not executed" (step S711; No), a setting is made to start the execution of the pre-reading notice performance according to the determined pre-reading notice pattern (step S712). In step S712, the pre-reading notice execution count counter, which indicates the number of variable displays to execute the pre-reading notice performance, is set to the special reserved memory number as the count initial value, and a setting corresponding to the pre-reading notice performance being executed, such as setting the pre-reading notice execution flag to an on state, is made. In addition, the pre-reading notice performance control pattern corresponding to the pre-reading notice pattern determined in step S710 and the current special reserved memory number is set.
After the processing of step S712 is executed, or when it is determined in step S703 that the pre-reading preview performance is being executed (step S703; Yes), when it is determined in step S704 that the pre-reading preview is being restricted (step S704; Yes), when it is determined in step S709 that the current number of pending memories is not "3" or "4", or when it is determined that the variable categories up to the previous time are not all non-reach misses (step S709; No), or when it is determined in step S711 that "no execution" is selected (step S711; Yes), it is determined whether or not the latest start port winning designation command stored in the start winning time reception command buffer 194A is the first start port winning designation command (step S713).

If the command is a first start gate winning designation command in step S713 (step S713; Yes), control is performed to update the display portion of the reserved display in the start winning memory display area corresponding to the newly reserved special chart game using the first special chart (step S714). In step S714, control is performed to update the reserved display in the start winning memory display area to the normal display mode (for example, a round white display). Thereafter, the pre-reading notice determination process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S713 that the command is not the first start winning command (step S713; No), the display part corresponding to the newly reserved special game using the second special game is updated as the reserved display in the start winning memory display area (step S715). In step S715, the reserved display in the start winning memory display area is updated to a normal display mode (for example, a round white display). Then, the pre-reading notice determination process is terminated.

When it is determined in step S707 that the command at the time of the start winning was not received normally (step S707; No), undetermined information is set corresponding to the most recent command in the start winning reception command buffer 194A (step S731). For example, a storage area for undetermined information may be provided for each buffer number in the start winning reception command buffer 194A, and the undetermined information for the buffer number corresponding to the most recent command may be set to "1" (or ON state).

After executing the process of step S731, the display parts showing the first and second reserved memory numbers as reserved display in the start winning memory display area are changed to a common display mode when abnormal (for example, a round gray display), and the display parts corresponding to the newly reserved are also displayed in a common display mode when abnormal (step S732). Note that even if the start winning designation command (first start winning designation command or second start winning designation command) cannot be received normally, if the reserved memory number notification command (first reserved memory number notification command or second reserved memory number notification command) can be received normally, the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number can be specified, so the reserved display may be updated in a normal display mode. The display mode when abnormal is different from the normal display mode in part or all of the display color, display shape, display character, etc. of the display part, so that it is possible to recognizably notify the occurrence of a missed command at the time of starting winning. It is also possible to have only the display area corresponding to the newly held item display in an abnormal mode, while leaving the display mode of the other display areas unchanged.

After executing the processing of step S732, the pre-reading preview restriction is set, for example by setting the pre-reading preview restriction flag provided in the performance control flag setting unit 191 or the like to an on state (step S733), and then the pre-reading preview determination processing is terminated.

In this type of pre-reading prediction decision process, when it is determined in step S707 that the command at the time of the start winning was not received properly, the process of step S710 is not executed, thereby restricting the execution of the pre-reading prediction performance. This makes it possible to restrict the execution of the pre-reading prediction performance when, for example, the reserved memory number notification command as reserved memory information that specifies that the first special chart reserved memory number or the second special chart reserved memory number has increased cannot be received properly.

In addition, if only the start port winning designation command is missing, if only the reserved memory number notification command is missing, or if the start port winning designation command and the reserved memory number notification command are not consistent, the execution of the look-ahead preview performance may be restricted. In other words, if the reserved memory information that specifies whether the first special chart reserved memory number or the second special chart reserved memory number has increased is missed, the execution of the look-ahead preview performance can be restricted. This makes it possible to prevent the look-ahead preview performance from being executed based on unreliable information and to avoid causing distrust among the player.

For example, when some or all of the reserved memory information that specifies whether the first or second special reserved memory count has increased, such as a start gate winning designation command or a reserved memory count notification command, is missed, the pre-reading preview performance may be restricted from being executed until the execution of the variable display corresponding to that reserved memory is completed. This prevents the pre-reading preview performance from becoming inconsistent with the variable display result, and prevents the player from feeling distrustful.

For example, if some or all of the judgment result information that specifies the judgment result at the time of the start winning, such as a pattern designation command or a variable category command, is missed, the pre-reading preview performance may be restricted so that it is not executed until the execution of the variable display corresponding to that reserved memory is completed. This prevents the pre-reading preview performance from becoming inconsistent with the variable display result, and prevents the player from feeling distrustful.

For example, when a part of the judgment result information such as a symbol designation command or a variable category command is missed, even if the judgment result can be recognized from other judgment result information, a restriction may be imposed so that the pre-reading preview performance based on the judgment result is not executed. This makes it possible to prevent the pre-reading preview performance from being executed based on information with low credibility, and to prevent the player from feeling distrustful.

For example, when the recognizable judgment results from multiple pieces of judgment result information, such as a pattern designation command and a variable category command, are not consistent, a restriction may be imposed so that a pre-reading preview performance based on a judgment result that can be recognized from any of the judgment result information is not executed. This makes it possible to prevent the pre-reading preview performance from being executed based on information with low credibility, and to prevent players from feeling distrustful.

Figure 25 is a flow chart showing an example of the processing executed in step S171 of Figure 8 as the variable display start setting processing. In the variable display start setting processing shown in Figure 25, the performance control CPU 120 first judges whether the special chart display result is a "miss" or not (step S522), for example by reading the EXT data in the variable display result notification command transmitted from the main board 11. When it is judged that the special chart display result is a "miss" (step S522; Yes), it judges whether the specified variable pattern is a non-reach variable pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display mode of the decorative pattern is set to "non-reach" (step S523), for example by reading the EXT data in the variable pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11.

When it is determined in step S523 that the pattern is a non-reach variation pattern (step S523; Yes), a combination of final decoration patterns that constitute a non-reach combination is determined (step S524). As an example, in the process of step S524, first, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining a left-definition pattern updated by a random counter or the like provided in the performance control counter setting unit 193 is extracted, and a left-definition decoration pattern that is stopped and displayed in the "left" decoration pattern display area SKY007 in the display area of the image display device 5 is determined by referring to a predetermined left-definition pattern determination table pre-stored in the ROM 121 or the like, among the final decoration patterns. Next, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining a right-definition pattern updated by a random counter or the like provided in the performance control counter setting unit 193 is extracted, and a right-definition decoration pattern that is stopped and displayed in the "right" decoration pattern display area SKY009 in the display area of the image display device 5 is determined, among the final decoration patterns, by referring to a predetermined right-definition pattern determination table pre-stored in the ROM 121 or the like. At this time, the pattern number of the right confirmed decorative pattern may be determined to be different from the pattern number of the left confirmed decorative pattern, for example, by setting in the right confirmed pattern determination table. Next, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the middle confirmed pattern, which is updated by a random counter or the like provided in the performance control counter setting unit 193, is extracted, and a predetermined middle confirmed pattern determination table previously stored in the ROM 121 or the like is referenced to determine the middle confirmed decorative pattern that is displayed in a stopped state in the "middle" decorative pattern display area SKY008 in the display area of the image display device 5, among the confirmed decorative patterns. In addition, in the process of step S524, a confirmed decorative pattern of a non-reach combination that is a predetermined chance eye may be determined in response to the variable pattern announcement being executed.

If it is determined in step S523 that the pattern is not a non-reach variation pattern (step S523; No), a combination of final decoration patterns that constitute the reach combination is determined (step S525). As an example, in the process of step S525, first, numerical data indicating random numbers for determining the left and right determined patterns updated by a random counter or the like provided in the performance control counter setting unit 193 is extracted, and a predetermined left and right determined pattern determination table pre-stored in the ROM 121 or the like is referenced to determine the decorative patterns that have the same pattern numbers that are stopped and displayed together in the "left" and "right" decorative pattern display areas SKY007 and SKY009 in the display area of the image display device 5 among the determined decorative patterns. Furthermore, numerical data indicating random numbers for determining the middle confirmed symbol, which is updated by a random counter or the like provided in the performance control counter setting unit 193, is extracted, and a predetermined middle confirmed symbol determination table stored in advance in the ROM 121 or the like is referenced to determine the middle confirmed symbol among the confirmed decorative symbols, which is stopped and displayed in the "middle" decorative symbol display area SKY008 in the display area of the image display device 5. Here, if the confirmed decorative symbol becomes a jackpot combination, such as when the symbol number of the middle confirmed decorative symbol becomes the same as the symbol numbers of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol, an arbitrary value (for example, "1") may be added or subtracted from the symbol number of the middle confirmed decorative symbol so that the confirmed decorative symbol does not become a jackpot combination but becomes a reach combination. Alternatively, when determining the middle confirmed decorative symbol, the difference (symbol difference) between the symbol numbers of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol may be determined, and the middle confirmed decorative symbol corresponding to the symbol difference may be set.

When it is determined in step S522 that the special display result is not a "miss" (step S522; No), a combination of final decoration patterns that constitute the jackpot combination is determined (step S528). As an example, in the process of step S528, first, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the jackpot determined pattern updated by a random counter of the performance control counter setting unit 193 is extracted, and then a predetermined jackpot determined pattern determination table pre-stored in the ROM 121 or the like is referenced to determine the decoration patterns that have the same pattern numbers that are stopped and displayed in the "left", "middle", and "right" decoration pattern display areas SKY007, SKY008, and SKY009 on the screen of the image display device 5. At this time, a different decoration pattern may be determined as the final decoration pattern depending on whether the jackpot type is "non-probability change" or "probability change", and whether or not there is a promotion performance during the jackpot.

As a specific example, when the jackpot type is "non-probability variable", any one of the multiple types of normal symbols may be selected and determined as the fixed decorative symbol that constitutes the non-probability variable jackpot combination. Also, when the jackpot type is "probability variable", any one of the multiple types of normal symbols or probability variable symbols may be selected and determined as the fixed decorative symbol that constitutes the non-probability variable jackpot combination or probability variable jackpot combination. At this time, when a fixed decorative symbol of a non-probability variable jackpot combination is determined, no notification is given in the re-draw performance during variable display that the game will be controlled to the probability variable state, and a notification is given by the promotion performance during jackpot that is executed in response to the jackpot game state. On the other hand, when a fixed decorative symbol of a probability variable jackpot combination is determined, a notification is given in the re-draw performance during variable display or without executing the re-draw performance that the game will be controlled to the probability variable state.

After executing any one of steps S524, S525, S527, and S528, a pre-reading notice execution setting process is executed (step S535). FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of the pre-reading notice execution setting process. In the pre-reading notice execution setting process shown in FIG. 26, the performance control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the pre-reading notice execution flag is in the ON state (step S601). If the pre-reading notice execution flag is in the OFF state (step S601; No), the pre-reading notice execution setting process is terminated.

If the pre-reading preview execution flag is on (step S601; Yes), the value of the pre-reading preview execution count counter is decremented by 1 (step S602). Then, based on the value of the pre-reading preview execution count counter and the pre-reading preview performance control pattern that has been set, settings are made to execute the pre-reading preview performance (step S603).

Then, it is determined whether the value of the pre-reading notice execution count counter is 0 (step S604). If the value of the pre-reading notice execution count counter is not 0 (step S604; No), the pre-reading notice execution setting process is terminated.

If the value of the pre-reading notice execution count counter is 0 (step S604; Yes), the pre-reading notice execution flag is cleared to the OFF state (step S605). When the value of the pre-reading notice execution count counter is 0, this fluctuation is a fluctuation that is the target of the pre-reading notice performance, and the pre-reading notice performance ends. After that, the pre-reading notice execution setting process ends.

After executing the pre-reading notice execution setting process in step S535, it is determined whether or not to execute the during-change notice performance, and the during-change notice pattern corresponding to the performance mode of the during-change notice performance when it is executed (step S529). As an example, in the process of step S529, a previously prepared during-change notice determination table is selected and set as a table to be used for determining whether or not to execute the during-change notice performance and the during-change notice pattern. In the during-change notice determination table, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random number value for determining the during-change notice type may be assigned to a determination result of "no execution" corresponding to the case where the during-change notice performance is not executed, or to multiple during-change notice patterns when the during-change notice performance is executed, depending on the variable display result specified from the variable display result notification command and the variable pattern specified from the variable pattern designation command. After that, the performance control CPU 120 may determine whether or not to execute the during-change notice performance and the during-change notice pattern by referring to the during-change notice determination table based on the numerical data indicating the random number value for the during-change notice determination extracted from, for example, the random number circuit 124 or the random counter of the performance control counter setting unit 193.

After the process of step S529 is executed, the execution setting of the other effects during the variable display is performed (step S530). As an example, in the process of step S530, a setting may be performed to execute an effect different from the pre-reading notice effect or the variable notice effect. Such effects may include, for example, a certain sound effect (such as an alarm sound, a chime sound, a siren sound, etc.) output from the speakers 8L and 8R at a certain timing when the variable display starts or during execution, or a certain effect including a part or all of a certain effect such as a flash lamp included in the game effect lamp 9 flashing, thereby executing an effect of a one-shot notification mode that immediately notifies (definitely notifies) that the variable display result is a "jackpot". Alternatively, as such an effect, an effect may be executed in which a special effect image (premium image) corresponding to the variable display result being a "jackpot" is displayed.

As another example, in the processing of step S530, regardless of the possibility that the variable display result will be a "jackpot", for example, a setting may be made to execute a predetermined type of presentation for entertainment purposes. More specifically, it is sufficient to be able to execute a predetermined type of presentation, such as a presentation in which a predetermined lamp included in the game effect lamp 9 lights up.

Then, the presentation control pattern is determined to be one of a number of patterns prepared in advance (step S531). At this time, the presentation control CPU 120 selects one of a number of prepared presentation control patterns for special chart change corresponding to, for example, a change pattern specified by a change pattern specification command, and sets it as the pattern to be used. Also, for example, if a setting is made to execute a pre-reading preview presentation of a character display preview, a preview presentation control pattern corresponding to that setting may be selected.

After executing the process of step S531, the initial value of the performance control process timer provided in the performance control timer setting unit 192 is set in accordance with the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command, for example (step S532). Next, settings are made to start the variation of the decorative patterns, etc. in the image display device 5 (step S533). At this time, for example, the display control command designated by the display control data included in the special pattern variation time performance control pattern determined as the usage pattern in step S531 is transmitted to the VDP of the display control unit 123, etc., to start the variation of the decorative patterns in each of the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative pattern display areas SKY007, SKY008, and SKY009 provided on the screen of the image display device 5. After that, the value of the performance process flag is updated to "2", which is a value corresponding to the variable display during performance processing (step S534), and the variable display start setting processing is terminated.

(About the decorative design)
The decorative patterns of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, decorative patterns "1" to "6" are displayed and undergo variation. In the decorative patterns of this embodiment, numbers, characters, and icons are displayed, and a combination of these three is called a decorative pattern, or a number alone is called a decorative pattern. The decorative patterns are displayed on the left (left decorative pattern), center (middle decorative pattern) (also called the middle), and right (right decorative pattern) of the image display device 5, and are designed so that the character's pose is different depending on where it is displayed.

In this embodiment, when two or more of the same decorative symbols are displayed in a stopped or provisionally stopped state, a "special ability" effect (also called a special ability effect) can be activated. This will be described in more detail later.

(Decorative design "1")
27 and 28 are explanatory diagrams of the decorative pattern in this embodiment. First, the "1" of the decorative pattern SKY001 will be described. The decorative pattern "1" SKY001 is a combination of the decorative pattern character "Nana" SKY001K1, the button icon SKY001K2, and the number "1" SKY001K3. The number "1" SKY001K3 is displayed in green.

When the decorative pattern "1" SKY001 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the left of the image display device 5 (left decorative pattern), the character "Nana" SKY001K1 of the decorative pattern is displayed with his hands raised. When the decorative pattern "1" SKY001 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the center of the image display device 5 (middle decorative pattern), the character "Nana" SKY001K1 of the decorative pattern is displayed with his hands clasped, not raised. When the decorative pattern "1" SKY001 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the right of the image display device 5 (right decorative pattern), the character "Nana" SKY001K1 of the decorative pattern is displayed with his hands clasped, not raised, and smiling. When two or more decorative patterns "1" SKY001 are displayed as stopped or provisionally stopped and a special ability performance is activated, unlike the left, center, and right of the image display device 5, the character is displayed with his hands spread and his legs bent. Also, the decorative character "Nana" SKY001K1 appears differently, but the button icon SKY001K2 and the number "1" SKY001K3 are all displayed in the same way.

The special ability of the decorative symbol "1" SKY001 is to display a button image, and when the button is pressed or the button's validity period ends, it will execute an effect that indicates the possibility that the target fluctuation (the fluctuation in question or the fluctuation that is the subject of the pre-read) will result in a jackpot.

(Decorative design "2")
Next, the decorative symbol "2" SKY002 will be described. The decorative symbol "2" SKY002 is a combination of a decorative symbol character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1, a lighted icon SKY002K2, and a number "2" SKY002K3. The number "2" SKY002K3 is displayed in blue.

When the decorative pattern "2" SKY002 is displayed as a stopped or temporarily stopped pattern on the left of the image display device 5 (left decorative pattern), the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 of the decorative pattern is displayed with his hand on his face. When the decorative pattern "2" SKY002 is displayed as a stopped or temporarily stopped pattern on the center of the image display device 5 (middle decorative pattern), the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 of the decorative pattern is displayed with his hand not raised. When the decorative pattern "2" SKY002 is displayed as a stopped or temporarily stopped pattern on the right of the image display device 5 (right decorative pattern), the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 of the decorative pattern is displayed with his hand raised. When a special ability performance is activated when two or more decorative patterns "2" SKY002 are displayed as stopped or temporarily stopped, unlike the left, center, and right of the image display device 5, both hands are raised and one hand is folded. Also, while the decorative character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 appears differently, the illuminated icon SKY002K2 and the number "2" SKY002K3 are all displayed in the same way.

The special ability of decorative pattern "2" SKY001 is to perform an effect in which the movable bodies of the first panel movable body 005IW33, the second panel movable body 005IW34, and the third panel movable body 005IW35 are lit up.

(Decorative design "3")
Next, the decorative pattern "3" will be described. The decorative pattern "3" SKY003 is a combination of a decorative pattern character "Mumu" SKY003K1, a timer icon SKY003K2, and a number "3" SKY003K3. The number "3" SKY003K3 is displayed in red.

When the decorative pattern "3" SKY003 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the left of the image display device 5 (left decorative pattern), the character "Mumu" SKY003K1 of the decorative pattern is displayed with both hands raised while leaning to the right. When the decorative pattern "3" SKY003 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the center of the image display device 5 (middle decorative pattern), the character "Mumu" SKY003K1 of the decorative pattern is displayed as a raised hand and facing forward. When the decorative pattern "3" SKY003 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the right of the image display device 5 (right decorative pattern), the character "Mumu" SKY003K1 of the decorative pattern is displayed as a clenched hand with one hand raised. When two or more decorative patterns "3" SKY003 are displayed as stopped or provisionally stopped and a special ability performance is activated, one hand is raised and the hand is displayed in the shape of scissors, unlike the left, center, and right of the image display device 5. Also, while the decorative character "Mumu" SKY003K1 appears differently, the timer icon SKY003K2 and the number "3" SKY003K3 are all displayed in the same way.

(Decorative design "4")
Next, the decorative symbol "4" SKY004 will be described. The decorative symbol "4" SKY004 is a combination of the decorative symbol character "Bomb Mouse" SKY004K1, the lighted icon SKY004K2, and the number "4" SKY004K3. The number "4" SKY004K3 is displayed in blue.

When the decorative pattern "4" SKY004 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the left of the image display device 5 (left decorative pattern), the decorative pattern character "Bomb Mouse" SKY004K1 is displayed with his hands on his face. When the decorative pattern "4" SKY004 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the center of the image display device 5 (middle decorative pattern), the decorative pattern character "Bomb Mouse" SKY004K1 is displayed with his hands not raised. When the decorative pattern "4" SKY004 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the right of the image display device 5 (right decorative pattern), the decorative pattern character "Bomb Mouse" SKY004K1 is displayed with his hands raised. When a special ability performance is activated when two or more decorative patterns "4" SKY004 are displayed as stopped or provisionally stopped, unlike the left, center, and right of the image display device 5, both hands are raised while the other hand is folded. Also, the decorative character "Bomb Mouse" SKY004K1 appears differently, but the illuminated icon SKY004K2 and the number "4" SKY004K3 are all displayed in the same way.

The special ability of decorative pattern "4" SKY004 is to perform an effect in which the movable bodies of the first panel movable body 005IW33, the second panel movable body 005IW34, and the third panel movable body 005IW35 are lit up.

(Decorative design "5")
Next, the decorative pattern "5" SKY005 will be described. The decorative pattern "5" SKY005 is a combination of a decorative pattern character "Jam" SKY005K1, a change icon SKY005K2, and a number "5" SKY005K3. The number "5" SKY005K3 is displayed in purple.

When the decorative pattern "5" SKY005 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the left of the image display device 5 (left decorative pattern), the decorative pattern character "Jam" SKY005K1 is displayed with his hands on his hips and an angry-looking face. When the decorative pattern "5" SKY005 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the center of the image display device 5 (middle decorative pattern), the decorative pattern character "Jam" SKY005K1 is displayed with his hands on his hips and a smiling-looking face. When the decorative pattern "5" SKY005 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the right of the image display device 5 (right decorative pattern), the decorative pattern character "Jam" SKY005K1 is displayed with his legs crossed and a smiling-looking face. When two or more decorative symbols "5" SKY005 are displayed stopped or temporarily stopped to activate a special ability performance, they are displayed with one hand raised and winking, unlike the left, center, and right sides of the image display device 5. Also, while the appearance of the decorative symbol character "Jam" SKY005K1 is different, the change icon SKY005K2 and the number "5" SKY005K3 are all displayed in the same manner.

The special ability of the decorative pattern "5" SKY005 is to execute effects that change the active display SKY017 and the pending display.

(Decorative design "6")
Next, the decorative symbol "6" SKY006 will be described. The decorative symbol "6" SKY006 is a combination of the decorative symbol character "Baku Rat" SKY006K1, the lighted icon SKY006K2, and the number "6" SKY006K3. The number "6" SKY006K3 is displayed in blue.

When the decorative pattern "6" SKY006 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the left of the image display device 5 (left decorative pattern), the decorative pattern character "Baku Rat" SKY006K1 is displayed with his hands on his face. When the decorative pattern "6" SKY006 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the center of the image display device 5 (middle decorative pattern), the decorative pattern character "Baku Rat" SKY006K1 is displayed with his hands not raised. When the decorative pattern "6" SKY006 is displayed as a stopped or provisionally stopped pattern on the right of the image display device 5 (right decorative pattern), the decorative pattern character "Baku Rat" SKY006K1 is displayed with his hands raised. When a special ability performance is activated when two or more decorative patterns "6" SKY006 are displayed as stopped or provisionally stopped, unlike the left, center, and right of the image display device 5, both hands are raised and one hand is folded. Also, the decorative character "Baku Rat" SKY006K1 appears in a different manner, but the illuminated icon SKY006K2 and the number "6" SKY006K3 are all displayed in the same manner.

The special ability of the decorative pattern "6" SKY006 is to perform an effect in which the movable bodies of the first panel movable body 005IW33, the second panel movable body 005IW34, and the third panel movable body 005IW35 are lit up.

In this embodiment, numbers and icons are displayed in the decorative design, but the colors of the numbers and the icons correspond to each other, and the icon colors are displayed using at least a portion of the color of the numbers.

In this way, by designing the character pose to be different depending on the temporary stop/stop position of the decorative pattern, the decorative pattern can be made to look livelier than when it is displayed in the same manner, and the interest in the game can be increased. In addition, by executing the performance when two of the same decorative patterns are lined up, it becomes easy to understand that the performance is executed by a specific result, and it is possible to easily convey to the player that the performance is executed by the corresponding decoration identification information. In addition, this embodiment is designed so that when the decorative patterns form a specific combination (reach, chance eye, etc.), the pose of the character attached to the decorative pattern changes to notify the performance, and by designing it in this way, it is possible to easily convey to the player that the performance is executed. In addition, the decorative pattern in this embodiment is displayed including characters, icons, and numbers, and it is easy to understand what performance and who is executed by the decorative pattern, and the interest in the game can be increased. In addition, in this embodiment, the numbers of the decorative patterns are designed to be different colors, and the proportion controlled to a jackpot when the reach mode is reached varies according to the color. The colors of the numbers are designed so that the probability of being controlled to a jackpot varies in the order of red > purple > green > blue, and accordingly the probability of being controlled to a jackpot when the special ability performance is executed varies. For example, the special ability performance of the decorative pattern "3" is more likely to be controlled to a jackpot than the special abilities of the other decorative patterns, the decorative pattern "5" is more likely to be controlled to a jackpot than the decorative patterns other than the decorative pattern "3", the decorative pattern "1" is more likely to be controlled to a jackpot than the decorative patterns other than the decorative patterns "3" and "5", and the decorative patterns "2", "4", and "6" have a uniform probability of being controlled to a jackpot. In this way, by visually checking the color of the numbers of the decorative patterns when a specific combination (reach, chance eye, etc.) is achieved or not achieved, the probability of the performance executed when the decorative patterns achieve a specific combination (reach, chance eye, etc.) being controlled to a jackpot can be guessed by the color of the numbers of the decorative patterns.

(Flow of fluctuations: Figures 29 to 34)
Figures 29 to 34 are diagrams showing the flow of changes in this embodiment in detail. First, (1-1) is a diagram showing when the decorative pattern is in a stopped state. In the stopped state, the left decorative pattern SKY007, the middle decorative pattern SKY008, and the right decorative pattern SKY009 are displayed in a stopped state. The next change starts (1-2), and the change ends and the patterns are displayed stopped (1-3). At this time, the decorative patterns are displayed in a manner corresponding to the positions of the left decorative pattern SKY007, the middle decorative pattern SKY008, and the right decorative pattern SKY009 (Figures 27 and 28). This embodiment is described using the terms reach mode (reach) and chance eye (chance eye mode), where reach mode (reach) refers to a pattern in which three decorative patterns are lined up, namely, the left decorative pattern, the middle decorative pattern, and the right decorative pattern, and the same decorative pattern temporarily stops on the left decorative pattern SKY007 and the right decorative pattern SKY009, and chance eye (chance eye mode) refers to a pattern in which three decorative patterns are lined up, namely, the left decorative pattern, the middle decorative pattern, and the right decorative pattern, and the same decorative pattern temporarily stops on the left decorative pattern SKY007 and the middle decorative pattern SKY008, or the same decorative pattern temporarily stops on the middle decorative pattern SKY008 and the right decorative pattern SKY009.

The next change begins (1-4), the left decorative pattern SKY007 and the right decorative pattern SKY009 temporarily stop (1-5), and when the center decorative pattern SKY008 is about to be temporarily stopped, the background and decorative patterns other than the center decorative pattern SKY008 become darker, and an effect occurs in which the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 will or will not temporarily stop on the center decorative pattern SKY008 (1-6), and the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 temporarily stops. When the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 temporarily stops, the effect image SKY011 is displayed (1-7). A predetermined time after the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 temporarily stops (for example, 1 second), the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 moves or is enlarged, and the pseudo consecutive number SKY012 is displayed, indicating that the pseudo consecutive is being executed (1-8). The pseudo consecutive reels mentioned here refer to the effect occurring within one spin being made to appear as if the effect continues over multiple spins.

After the pseudo consecutive wins are performed, a screen is displayed in which the decorative symbols are changed again. At that time, the pseudo consecutive win count display SKY013, which is smaller than the pseudo consecutive win pattern SKY010 and displays "x2", is displayed in the upper right corner of the screen (1-9). After that, the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped in the order of left decorative symbol → right decorative symbol, and the decorative symbol "5" SKY005, which displays the character "Jam" SKY005K1, is temporarily stopped and displayed in a reach state (1-10). When the reach state is reached, the poses of the character "Jam" SKY005K1 displayed in the left decorative symbol SKY007 and right decorative symbol SKY009 change, and the character "Jam" SKY005K1 in the left decorative symbol SKY007 and right decorative symbol SKY009 each go from different poses to the same pose (1-11). After that, a performance corresponding to the decorative symbol is executed. This time, the decorative symbol "5" SKY005 is displayed in a reach state, so a "reserve change effect" corresponding to the decorative symbol "5" SKY005 is executed. On the reserve change effect screen, the character "Jam" SKY005K1 corresponding to the decorative symbol "5" SKY005 is displayed larger than the character "Jam" SKY005K1 of the decorative symbol "5" SKY005 and in a different pose, notifying the user that the reserve will change. Also at this time, the reserve change text display SKY014 is displayed saying "Reserve change!" indicating that the reserve will change in text display, and the active display SKY017 and background image SKY015 are displayed in green. At this time, the reserve change effect SKY016 is displayed when the reserve changes (1-12).

After the reserved change effect ends, it is displayed in a reach mode as shown in (1-10) (1-13). After that, when the middle decorative pattern SKY008 is about to be temporarily stopped, the background and decorative patterns other than the middle decorative pattern SKY008 become dark, and an effect occurs in which the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 will or will not temporarily stop on the middle decorative pattern SKY008 (1-14), and the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 temporarily stops. When the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 temporarily stops, the effect image SKY011 is displayed (1-15). After a predetermined time has passed since the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 temporarily stopped (for example, 1 second), the pseudo consecutive pattern SKY010 is displayed moving or enlarged, and the pseudo consecutive number SKY012 is displayed, indicating that the pseudo consecutive will be executed (1-16).

After the pseudo consecutive win is executed, a screen is displayed in which the decorative symbols are changed again. At that time, the pseudo consecutive win count display SKY013, which is smaller than the pseudo consecutive win symbol SKY010 and displays "x3", is displayed in the upper right corner of the screen (1-17). After that, the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped in the order of left decorative symbol → right decorative symbol, and the decorative symbol "1" SKY001, which displays the character "Nana" SKY001K1, is temporarily stopped and displayed in a reach state (1-18). When the reach state is reached, the poses of the character "Nana" SKY001K1 displayed in the left decorative symbol SKY007 and right decorative symbol SKY009 change, and the character "Nana" SKY001K1 in the left decorative symbol SKY007 and right decorative symbol SKY009 each go from different poses to the same pose (1-19). After that, a special ability performance corresponding to the decorative symbol is executed. This time, the decorative symbol "1" SKY001 is displayed in a reach state, so the "Button Acquisition Performance" corresponding to the decorative symbol "1" SKY001 is executed. On the button acquisition performance screen, the character "Nana" SKY001K1 corresponding to the decorative symbol "1" SKY001 is displayed larger than the character "Nana" SKY001K1 of the decorative symbol "1" SKY001 and is displayed in a different pose, and the button image SKY018 is displayed, and a display is made suggesting that the target variation (the variation or the variation that is the target of the pre-reading) may become a jackpot when the button is pressed or the valid period of the button ends. At this time, the button acquisition text display SKY019 "Button GET!!" is displayed, indicating that the reserved will change in the text display, and the background image SKY015 is displayed with a background accompanied by a heart corresponding to the character "Nana" SKY001K1 (1-20). In common with the special ability performance, the character layer is displayed below the performance.

If the button is pressed within the valid period or when the valid period of the button expires, the chance indicator SKY020, which indicates the possibility of a jackpot, is displayed in red (1-21), and the chance indicator SKY020 gradually becomes harder to see and is displayed in a reach state (1-18) (1-22). After that, the screen goes white, and after a predetermined number of seconds (for example, 1 second), a light-up effect is performed using two different types of high-luminance colors to indicate that a SP reach (any of A, B, or C) will be executed (1-23).

After the light-up effect ends, the title of SP Reach C is displayed, and a title announcing that the effect of SP Reach C will be executed is displayed (1-24). This reach is an SP reach that will be a big hit if the character "Moetarou" SKY021 can go see a live show. First, after the title is displayed, the screen switches and the background of SP Reach C is displayed (1-25), and an image of the character "Moetarou" SKY021 walking towards you from the right side of the screen is displayed, and an image of the character "Moetarou" SKY021 uttering the words SKY022 displayed in black is played (1-26) (1-27). In front of the character "Moetarou" SKY021's eyes is a group called "Powerful Girls" performing a live show (1-28), and an image of the character "Moetarou" SKY021 wondering whether to go to the live show is played (1-29). When the character "Moetarou" SKY021 is wondering whether to go to the live show, a button image SKY018 and a button effect SKY023 are displayed (1-30), and when the button is pressed within the valid period or when the valid period of the button expires, a cut-in image SKY024, which is a chance-up effect, is displayed (1-31). After that, the cut-in image SKY024 moves off the screen, and converging lines SKY025 are displayed around the character "Moetarou" SKY021 (1-32). When the converging lines are displayed, the flow of the image is slower than the other images. Furthermore, the character "Moetarou" SKY021 is displayed while being enlarged little by little.

(In case of a jackpot)
When SP Reach C is a big hit, a star effect image SKY026 is displayed on the edge of the screen, and the line SKY022 is displayed in rainbow colors (1-33). After the character "Moetaro" SKY021 utters the line SKY022, the bar role object 005IW32 falls from the top of the screen to about the center of the screen (1-34). At this time, the background changes to a rainbow background. After the bar role object 005IW32 falls to about the center of the screen, it returns at a slower speed than the speed at which it fell to the evacuation position (1-35), and after returning to the evacuation position, the image of SP Reach C is displayed. After switching to the image of SP Reach C, it becomes difficult to see as if it has been pixelated, and the text display SKY027 is displayed on top of it (1-36). After the text display SKY027 can no longer be seen, the decorative pattern "1" SKY001 and the number "1" SKY001K3 are displayed enlarged (1-37) (1-38). After being fully enlarged, it returns to a certain size and is displayed while swaying (1-39), and after a few seconds (for example, 3 seconds) it is displayed stationary (1-40).

(In case of loss)
If the SP Reach C is a miss, the character "Moetarou" SKY021 will say the words SKY022 with a dissatisfied face, and a video of him moving off the screen will be shown (1-41). After the character "Moetarou" SKY021 is no longer displayed on the screen, the whole screen will go dark, and the number "1" SKY001K3 of the decorative pattern "1" SKY001 and the number "2" SKY002K3 of the decorative pattern "2" SKY002 will be displayed while shaking, and after a few seconds (e.g., after 3 seconds), the screen will go black and switch (1-42) (1-43). After the screen switches, the displayed decorative pattern will return to the decorative pattern including the character, icon, and number, and will be displayed still after a few seconds (e.g., after 2 seconds) (1-44) (1-45).

In this way, by executing an effect when two of the same decorative symbols are lined up, it is easier to understand that an effect will be executed than if a specific result is achieved, and the corresponding decoration identification information can be conveyed to the player in an easy-to-understand manner. Furthermore, this embodiment is designed so that when the decorative symbols form a specific combination (such as a reach or chance eye), the same two characters attached to the decorative symbols change to the same pose to notify the player of the effect, and by designing it in this way, it is easier to communicate to the player that the effect will be executed. Furthermore, this embodiment is designed so that a special ability is executed while an effect that notifies the player that a special ability will be executed is being executed. In this way, by starting the effect when the notification effect is being executed, it is easier to understand that the trigger for executing the effect is that the decorative symbols form a specific combination (such as a reach or chance eye).

(Preview performance)
In this embodiment, the special ability performance can be executed before the performance that is the target, and FIG. 35 illustrates this. First, (2-1) is a diagram showing the state when the decorative symbols are in a stopped state. In the stopped state, the left decorative symbol SKY007, the center decorative symbol SKY008, and the right decorative symbol SKY009 are displayed in a stopped state. The next change starts (2-2), the left decorative symbol SKY007 and the right decorative symbol SKY009 are temporarily stopped (2-3), and the decorative symbol "2" SKY002, which is the same as the left decorative symbol SKY007, is temporarily stopped and displayed on the center decorative symbol SKY008 (2-4). The decorative pattern "2" SKY005 on which the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 is displayed is temporarily stopped on the left decorative pattern SKY007 and the center decorative pattern SKY008, and a specific combination (reach, chance, etc.) is achieved, and the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 changes from different poses to the same pose (2-5). After that, a performance corresponding to the decorative pattern is executed. After that, a performance corresponding to the decorative pattern is executed. This time, the decorative pattern "2" SKY002 is displayed in a specific combination (reach, chance, etc.), so a "movable body lighting performance" corresponding to the decorative pattern "2" SKY002 is executed. On the screen of the movable body lighting performance, the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 corresponding to the decorative pattern "2" SKY002 is displayed larger than the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 of the decorative pattern "2" SKY002 and is displayed in a different pose, and it is announced that the movable body will be lit up. At this time, the movable body lighting text display SKY028, which indicates that the movable body will light up in text display, is displayed, and at the same time, the first panel image SKY029 imitating the first panel movable body 005IW33 and the panel effect image SKY030 are displayed, suggesting that the movable body will light up (2-6). After that, as shown in (2-4), a specific combination (reach, chance eye, etc.) is displayed, the first panel movable body 005IW33 goes from a non-lighting state to a lighting state, and the lighting effect image SKY031 is displayed on the part of the screen superimposed on the first panel movable body 005IW33, and the variation ends (2-7). After that, it remains lit until the performance related to the first panel movable body 005IW33 (where the cut-in of SP Reach C is displayed) (2-8).

(Power Spot CHANCE)
36 and 37 show the effect of Power Spot CHANCE, which can temporarily stop the decorative pattern multiple times in one effect in the change. Power Spot CHANCE is an effect that can make it look like a total of three changes have been made. First, (3-1) is a diagram showing the decorative pattern when it is stopped. In the stopped state, the left decorative pattern SKY007, the middle decorative pattern SKY008, and the right decorative pattern SKY009 are displayed in a stopped state. The next change starts (3-2), the screen switches, and the character "Mumu" SKY003K1 is displayed in the background, and the word Power Spot CHANCE is displayed superimposed on it, suggesting that Power Spot CHANCE will be executed from now on (3-3). When the word "POWER SPOT CHANCE" becomes invisible, the left decoration pattern SKY007, the right decoration pattern SKY009, and the center decoration pattern SKY008 are temporarily stopped in this order, as in the normal variation (for example, FIG. 29), and the decoration pattern "2" SKY002 is displayed temporarily stopped on the left decoration pattern SKY007 and the center decoration pattern SKY008. At this time, a special ability performance is executed because a specific combination (chance eye) has been achieved, and the performance is executed in the same manner as the special ability performance executed in the pre-reading variation (FIG. 35) (3-4) to (3-8).

Then, the second variation begins, and just like normal variations (for example, Figure 29), when the decorative symbols stop in the specified order, they are displayed as scattered numbers (a result of 521, such as (3-12)). At this time, no special effects occur, and the third variation is executed (3-9) to (3-12).

Then, the third change begins, and the left decorative pattern SKY007 and the right decorative pattern SKY009 are displayed with the decorative pattern "5" SKY005 temporarily stopped. At this time, a special ability effect is performed because a specific combination (reach) has been achieved, and the special ability effect is performed in the same way as in Figure 30, and the screen switches to show the reach state (3-13) to (3-18).

In Power Spot CHANCE, the pose of the decorative symbols displayed before the special ability performance is executed also changes from a different pose to the same pose, just like in normal variations (e.g., FIG. 29). Also, in the variation in which Power Spot CHANCE is executed, the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped up to five times, the chance eye is executed up to two times, and the reach mode is executed up to three times. In this way, the performance can be made more lively, and interest in the game can be increased each time the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped.

(Special ability details)
38 to 48 are diagrams showing in detail the special ability effects executed in this embodiment. The special ability effects are displayed in the same manner and effects are executed even when decorative symbols are displayed with chance eyes.

(Nana's special ability)
38 and 39 are detailed diagrams showing when the decorative symbol "1" SKY001 is temporarily stopped and the special ability performance is executed. First, this embodiment is designed so that the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped in the order of left decorative symbol → right decorative symbol, and the decorative symbol "1" SKY001 is temporarily stopped as the left decorative symbol SKY007 (4-1), and then the decorative symbol "1" SKY001 is temporarily stopped as the right decorative symbol SKY009, resulting in a reach state (4-2). When the reach state is reached, the pose of the character "Nana" SKY001K1 displayed on the left decorative symbol SKY007 and the right decorative symbol SKY009 changes, and the character "Nana" SKY001K1 of the left decorative symbol SKY007 and the right decorative symbol SKY009 changes from a different pose to the same pose (4-3). When the two buttons are in the same pose, an emphasis effect image SKY032 that emphasizes the button icon SKY001K2 is displayed, suggesting that a performance related to the button icon SKY001K2 will be executed (4-4). After that, the screen becomes dim, but the button icon SKY001K2 and the active display SKY017 do not become dim. The button icon SKY001K2 is gradually enlarged and displayed while moving, and when the two button icons SKY001K2 overlap one another, the background image SKY015 is whited out and a heart corresponding to the character "Nana" SKY001K1 is displayed as a background, and only the button image SKY018 is displayed. After that, the character "Nana" SKY001K1 and the button acquisition character display SKY019 are displayed until the button is pressed or the validity period of the button ends (4-5) to (4-9).

If the button is pressed within the valid period or when the valid period of the button expires, the chance display SKY020 is displayed, indicating the possibility of a jackpot. The chance display SKY020 comes in three types: blue (4-10), green (4-11), and red (4-12), and is designed to ensure that the likelihood of a jackpot is greater in the order blue < green < red. After that, the chance display SKY020 gradually becomes harder to see and is displayed in a reach state (4-13).

(Mumu's special ability)
40 and 41 are detailed diagrams showing when the decorative symbol "3" SKY003 is temporarily stopped and the special ability performance is executed. First, this embodiment is designed so that the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped in the order of left decorative symbol → right decorative symbol, and the decorative symbol "3" SKY003 is temporarily stopped as the left decorative symbol SKY007 (5-1), and then the decorative symbol "3" SKY003 is temporarily stopped as the right decorative symbol SKY009, resulting in a reach state (5-2). When the reach state is reached, the pose of the character "Mumu" SKY003K1 displayed on the left decorative symbol SKY007 and the right decorative symbol SKY009 changes, and the character "Mumu" SKY003K1 of the left decorative symbol SKY007 and the right decorative symbol SKY009 changes from a different pose to the same pose (5-3). When the two timer icons SKY003K2 are in the same pose, an emphasis effect image SKY032 that emphasizes the timer icon SKY003K2 is displayed, suggesting that a performance related to the timer icon SKY003K2 will be executed (5-4). After that, the screen becomes dim, but the timer icon SKY003K2 and the active display SKY017 do not become dim. The timer icon SKY003K2 is gradually enlarged and moved, and when the two timer icons SKY003K2 overlap, the background image SKY015 is whited out and a star corresponding to the character "Mumu" SKY003K1 is displayed on the background, and only the timer image SKY033 is displayed. At this time, the timer image SKY033 is displayed in an updated display, and numbers are displayed sparsely so that it is not clear how many seconds it is. After that, the character "Mumu" SKY003K1 and the timer acquisition character display SKY034 are displayed (5-5) to (5-7).

A predetermined time (approximately 1 second) after the character "Mumu" SKY003K1 and the timer acquisition character display SKY034 are displayed, the timer image SKY033 stops updating and the timer time is determined and displayed (5-8), (5-11), (5-14). After that, the timer image SKY033 is displayed in a reduced size and moves to a predetermined position (bottom left of the screen), while the background image SKY015 returns to the cityscape stage (5-9), (5-12), (5-15).

When the numbers displayed on the timer image SKY033 are updated and reach "00:00", the center of the timer image SKY033 opens and the effect-related character SKY035 is displayed (5-10), (5-13), (5-16). There are several types of effect-related character SKY035: "Ren" effect-related character SKY035, which suggests that a pseudo-ren will be performed, "SP" effect-related character SKY035, which suggests that one of the SP reaches will be performed, and "Geki-Hatsu" effect-related character SKY035, which suggests that control will be achieved by a jackpot. They are designed so that the likelihood of control being achieved by a jackpot is higher in the order of "Ren" < "SP" < "Geki-Hatsu".

(Jam's special ability)
42 and 43 are detailed diagrams showing when the decorative symbol "5" SKY005 is temporarily stopped and the special ability performance is executed. First, this embodiment is designed so that the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped in the order of left decorative symbol → right decorative symbol, and the decorative symbol "5" SKY005 is temporarily stopped as the left decorative symbol SKY007 (6-1), and then the decorative symbol "5" SKY005 is temporarily stopped as the right decorative symbol SKY009, resulting in a reach state (6-2). When the reach state is reached, the pose of the character "Jam" SKY005K1 displayed on the left decorative symbol SKY007 and the right decorative symbol SKY009 changes, and the character "Jam" SKY005K1 of the left decorative symbol SKY007 and the right decorative symbol SKY009 changes from a different pose to the same pose (6-3). When the two change icons SKY005K2 and the active display SKY017 are in the same pose, an emphasis effect image SKY032 that emphasizes the change icon SKY005K2 is displayed, suggesting that a performance related to the change icon SKY005K2 will be executed (6-4). After that, the screen becomes dim, but the change icon SKY005K2 and the active display SKY017 do not become dim. The change icon SKY005K2 is gradually enlarged and displayed with a moving display, and when the two change icons SKY005K2 and the active display SKY017 are enlarged and overlap one another, the background image SKY015 is whited out and displayed with a background corresponding to the changing color, and the active display SKY017 is displayed with the changing color. After that, the character "Jam" SKY005K1 of the right decoration pattern SKY009 and the reserved change character display SKY014 are displayed. At this time, the reserved change effect SKY016 is displayed at the timing when the reserved changes (6-5) to (6-14).

After being displayed, the enlarged active display SKY017 gradually shrinks and moves to the original location. As the display moves, the background returns to its original state.

The reserve change effects are blue (6-6), green (6-9), and red (6-12), and are designed to ensure that the probability of hitting a jackpot is high in the order blue < green < red.

(Special ability of Bakuchu (Bakumouse, Bakurat))
44 to 46 are detailed diagrams showing when the decorative symbol "2" SKY002 is temporarily stopped and the special ability performance is executed. This special ability performance is also executed when the decorative symbol "4" SKY004 and the decorative symbol "6" SKY006 are temporarily stopped, and it is the same performance except for the characters. First, this embodiment is designed so that the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped in the order of left decorative symbol → right decorative symbol, and the decorative symbol "2" SKY002 is temporarily stopped as the left decorative symbol SKY007 (7-1), and then the decorative symbol "2" SKY002 is temporarily stopped as the right decorative symbol SKY009, resulting in a reach mode (7-2). When the reach state is reached, the pose of the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 displayed on the left decorative pattern SKY007 and the right decorative pattern SKY009 changes, and the characters "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 on the left decorative pattern SKY007 and the right decorative pattern SKY009 change from different poses to the same pose (7-3). When they become the same pose, an emphasis effect image SKY032 that emphasizes the lighting icon SKY002K2 is displayed, suggesting that a performance related to the lighting icon SKY002K2 will be executed (7-4). After that, the screen becomes dim, but the lighting icon SKY002K2 and the active display SKY017 do not become dim. The lighted icon SKY002K2 is gradually enlarged and moved, and when the two lighted icons SKY002K2 overlap one another, the background image SKY015 is whited out and displayed against a brick background corresponding to the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1, and images of the lighted movable bodies are displayed (7-6), (7-11), (7-16). For example, the first panel image SKY029 is displayed when suggesting that the first panel movable body 005IW33 shaped like a grape will be lit, the third panel image SKY036 is displayed when suggesting that the third panel movable body 005IW35 shaped like a watermelon will be lit, and the third panel image SKY037 is displayed when suggesting that the second panel movable body 005IW35 shaped like a banana will be lit. After that, the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 and the movable body lighted character display SKY028 are displayed (7-6), (7-12), and (7-17).

After a predetermined time has elapsed (e.g., 2 seconds), the background returns to normal and the panel images are displayed moving on their respective movable bodies. When the panel images reach the position of the panel movable bodies, the panel movable bodies light up and the panel images change to panel effect images (7-8), (7-9), (7-13), (7-14), (7-18), (7-19).

The panel movable body and panel effect image are designed to remain lit and displayed until the timing of the related effect. A related effect is, for example, the effect in which the cut-in image SKY024, which is displayed in SP Reach C, is displayed, and the design is such that the probability of the cut-in image SKY024 being displayed varies depending on the number of panel movable bodies and panel effect images that are lit and displayed; the more lit and displayed the higher the probability of the cut-in image SKY024 being displayed. Also, in this embodiment, the design is such that the display of the cut-in image SKY024 increases the probability of being controlled as a jackpot.

In this embodiment, the character "Bakuchu" SKY002K1 is displayed against a background made of bricks, but this is not limiting; the lamp may be changed depending on which part is lit. For example, the lamp may be changed to blue when one is lit, green when two are lit, and red when three are lit. This allows the player to enjoy the effects of different colors.

(Various ratios)
In this embodiment, the ratio of the special ability performance to be executed is designed to be different between the case of a big win and the case of a miss. FIG. 47 is a diagram showing in detail the ratio of the special ability performance to be executed. As a premise, the special ability performance is designed to be controlled to a big win at a high ratio when executed in the order of the movable body lighting performance (decorative symbols "2", "4", "5") < button acquisition performance (decorative symbol "1") < reserve change performance (decorative symbol "5") < timer performance (decorative symbol "3"), and the execution ratio also differs depending on the number of times the pseudo consecutive is executed.

For example, the movable body lighting effect and button acquisition effect are designed to be executed more frequently as the number of pseudo consecutive hits increases, and the reserve change effect and timer notice are designed to be executed less frequently as the number of pseudo consecutive hits increases. This relationship is designed to remain the same whether it is a big hit or a miss. In this way, it is possible to draw attention to which decorative pattern is displayed in a reach state. Furthermore, by performing pseudo consecutive hits due to the fluctuation, the number of times the decorative pattern is temporarily stopped increases, so the frequency of the special ability effect is increased, and it is possible to draw attention to the decorative pattern. In addition, the timer effect is designed to have a higher rate of being controlled by a big hit than other special ability effects, but it is designed to have the lowest execution rate among the special ability effects executed when controlled by a miss, and the highest when pseudo consecutive hits are not executed among the special ability effects executed when controlled by a big hit, and when pseudo consecutive hits are executed once, they are the highest even when combined with the 0th time, and when pseudo consecutive hits are executed twice, they are designed to have a lower execution rate than the movable body lighting effect when combined with the 0th and 1st times.

Next, we will explain the percentage of times that the look-ahead fluctuation is executed. First, the look-ahead fluctuation is executed in both the case of a jackpot and a miss, and is designed so that in 10% of jackpots, the fluctuation involving the look-ahead fluctuation controls the jackpot. In this way, it is possible to increase interest in the look-ahead fluctuation. Also, it is designed so that the percentage of times that the jackpot is controlled is higher when the look-ahead fluctuation is executed than when it is not executed.

The execution rate of the special ability effects that are executed when a look-ahead variation is executed is the same for both big wins and misses, and the moving body lighting effect is designed to be executed the most frequently, followed by the hold change effect and the timer effect, which are designed to be executed at a lower rate. Also, the button acquisition effect is designed not to be executed during look-ahead variations. This is because the button acquisition effect is a display that shows the expected big win probability of the corresponding variation, and if it were displayed during a look-ahead variation, it could be mistaken for the expected big win probability of the look-ahead variation, so it is designed not to be executed during look-ahead variations.

In addition, the execution rate of the special ability performance is different in the pre-reading variation and the actual variation. For example, the ratio of the moving body lighting performance is higher in the pre-reading variation than when the pseudo consecutive is not executed in the actual variation and the moving body lighting performance is executed. The more pseudo consecutive is the higher the execution rate of the special ability performance, and the variation is designed to have a higher execution rate up to the second pseudo consecutive in the case of a big win (about 68%). Also, even in the case of a miss, the variation is designed to have a higher execution rate up to the first pseudo consecutive (67%). This is the same for other special ability performances, and the execution rate of the variation increases with the number of pseudo consecutive. Also, only the timer performance is designed to have a higher execution rate than the pre-reading variation even when the pseudo consecutive is not executed. In this way, it is possible to draw attention to which decorative pattern is displayed in a specific combination, and the character of the decorative pattern is also notified that a special ability performance will be executed, so it can be drawn to attention. Furthermore, since the design makes it easier to execute the timer effect when the special ability effect is executed for the fluctuation (including the target fluctuation of the pre-reading) than for the pre-reading fluctuation, the special ability effect can be visually confirmed from the pre-reading fluctuation while the special ability effect can also be executed for the fluctuation (including the target fluctuation of the pre-reading), so that attention can be paid to both the pre-reading fluctuation and the fluctuation, and attention can be paid to the fluctuation in particular, which increases interest in the game.

Next, Figure 48 illustrates the percentage of special ability effects that are executed in Power Spot CHANCE. Power Spot CHANCE is an effect that repeats the fluctuations and temporary stops shown in Figures 36 and 37 multiple times, and is designed so that the temporary stops are displayed in a chance-eye mode the first and second times, and only the third time are displayed in a reach mode. Also, Power Spot CHANCE sometimes does not execute a special ability effect, but excluding the cases where it is not executed, it is designed so that the movable body lighting effect is executed most frequently, followed by the hold change effect, and the timer effect is executed least frequently.

The power spot CHANCE that is executed when controlled to hit a jackpot is designed to have a higher chance of becoming a chance eye state than the power spot CHANCE that is executed when controlled to hit a miss. In addition, the button acquisition effect is designed so that it is not executed in the chance eye state, and the timer notice effect is also designed to have the same execution rate. In addition, the movable body lighting effect is designed to be executed more frequently when controlled to hit a miss than when controlled to hit a jackpot. Conversely, the hold change effect is designed to be executed more frequently when controlled to hit a jackpot.

In addition, the execution rate of the special ability performance executed in the power spot CHANCE is different from that of the special ability performance executed in the number of pseudo consecutive times in normal fluctuation, and the moving body lighting performance executed when controlled to hit or miss is more likely to be executed in the power spot CHANCE, and the reserve change performance and timer performance are executed at a higher rate than in the power spot CHANCE. In addition, when comparing the chance eye mode and the reach mode, the special ability performance is designed to be executed at a higher rate when the reach mode is reached overall. For example, when comparing the timer performance, the reach mode is executed at a higher rate overall than the chance eye mode, and even when looking at the performance of the power spot CHANCE, the rate at which the timer performance is executed on the first and second times and the rate at which the timer performance is executed on the third time are designed to be executed at a higher rate (10%), even if the first and second times are combined (9.7%). In this way, not only can the combination of the reach mode and the chance eye mode be focused on, but the reach mode in particular can be focused on, which increases the interest in playing.

Next, the jackpot percentage when a power spot CHANCE is executed will be explained. A power spot CHANCE is designed so that in 30% of jackpots, a jackpot is controlled by fluctuations involving the power spot CHANCE. It is also designed so that the percentage of jackpots controlled is higher when the power spot CHANCE is executed than when it is not executed. To explain in more detail, the percentage of jackpots controlled is different depending on the chance eye mode displayed during a power spot CHANCE, and it is designed so that the more times the chance eye mode is displayed, the higher the percentage of jackpots controlled. In this way, players can focus on the temporary stop display of the decorative pattern during a power spot CHANCE, increasing their interest in the game.

Next, the proportion of times the game is controlled to a jackpot A or a jackpot B in this embodiment will be explained. In this embodiment, the proportion of times the game is controlled to a jackpot A or a jackpot B varies depending on the number of times a chance eye is displayed during a power spot CHANCE in the relevant variation, and the proportion of times the game is controlled to a jackpot B is higher when a chance eye is executed. As a result, when a power spot CHANCE is executed, the number of times the special ability performance is executed is greater than when it is not executed. Since this embodiment is a gaming machine that is primarily focused on special ability performance, it is designed so that the game is controlled to a jackpot B when the number of times the special ability performance is executed is greater. In this way, the expectation of being controlled to a jackpot B increases depending on whether a chance eye is displayed, and attention can be paid to whether a chance eye is executed in the relevant variation, improving interest in the game.

(Variable time)
FIG. 49 is a diagram showing in detail the time from the start of the fluctuation to the activation of the special ability performance. When the special ability performance is executed for the first time (pseudo consecutive 0th time), the special ability performance starts 10 seconds after the start of the fluctuation. When the second special ability performance is executed (pseudo consecutive 1st time), the special ability performance starts 8 seconds after the decorative symbols become a specific combination before the first special ability performance is executed. When the third special ability performance is executed (pseudo consecutive 2nd time), the special ability performance starts 5 seconds after the decorative symbols become a specific combination before the first special ability performance is executed. By designing in this way, the more times the special ability performance is executed, the shorter the time between the special ability performances becomes, so that the performance can be made more lively.

In addition, in the embodiment, spherical gaming balls (pachinko balls) are used as an example of gaming media, but the gaming media is not limited to spherical gaming media, and may be non-spherical gaming media such as medals.

In addition, in the embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine is applied as an example of a gaming machine, but the present invention can also be applied to a slot machine in which, for example, a game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using gaming value, one game ends when a variable display result is derived from a variable display device that can variably display multiple types of identifiable patterns, and a prize can be won depending on the variable display result derived from the variable display device.

The gaming machine of the present invention can also be applied to slot machines and other enclosed gaming machines that enclose gaming media and award points based on winning. In addition, a gaming machine capable of playing games is one that at least plays games, and is not limited to pachinko gaming machines or slot machines, and may be a general game machine.

1: Pachinko gaming machine 4A: First special symbol display device 4B: Second special symbol display device 5: Image display device 100: Game control microcomputer 120: Performance control CPU

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and control the game to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A display means;
a performance execution means, the display means being capable of displaying a variable display of decoration identification information corresponding to the variable display of the special identification information,
The ornament identification information includes character information,
The performance execution means includes:
As a performance suggesting that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state, a first performance and a second performance having a higher expectation of being controlled to the advantageous state than the first performance can be executed;
A first pattern of pre-stage performance can be executed as a pre-stage performance before either the first performance or the second performance is executed,
A second pattern of pre-stage performance can be executed as a pre-stage performance before either the first performance or the second performance is executed,
the first pattern is executed when the combination of the decoration identification information becomes a reach state, and the character information indicates that the first effect or the second effect will be executed;
the second pattern is executed when the combination of the decoration identification information does not result in the reach mode, and is a pattern that suggests that the first effect or the second effect will be executed by the character information;
The execution rate of the second performance after the first pattern is executed is higher than the execution rate of the second performance after the first pattern is executed,
A gaming machine characterized by: