JP7465296B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Conventionally, gaming machines are known that are capable of executing operation means effects that encourage players to operate operation means that can be operated by the player (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2019-141533 A

However, there is a demand for gaming machines to improve the entertainment value of the game.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a gaming machine that can increase the enjoyment of gaming.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises:
An operating means;
A display means for displaying an image;
A performance control means for controlling the execution of the performance,
the presentation includes a presentation of an operation means in which an operation means image relating to the operation means is displayed on the display means, and the operation of the operation means is encouraged;
The operation means performance includes a first operation means performance and a second operation means performance,
the first operation means effect is an effect in which, when the operation means is not operated within a first period during which an operation on the operation means is valid, an effect display for the operation means image is displayed in the same manner as an effect display in the case where the operation means is operated within the first period;
the second operation means effect is an effect in which, when the operation means is not operated within a second period during which an operation on the operation means is valid, an effect display related to the operation means image is displayed that is different from an effect display in a case where the operation means is operated within the second period,
The second period is shorter than the first period.

In the present invention, when the operation means is not operated during a period during which the operation of the operation means is effective in the operation means presentation, there are cases where the same display as when the operation means is operated during that period is performed, and cases where a different display is performed. Therefore, the mode of presentation when the operation means is not operated in the operation means presentation can be made diverse, and the interest of the game can be increased. Also, in the present invention, the second operation means presentation, which presents a different display from when the operation means is operated, has a shorter period during which the operation of the operation means is effective than the first operation means presentation, which presents a display similar to when the operation means is operated. For this reason, for example, the second operation means presentation is made such that when the operation means is operated, a presentation of relatively low importance is executed, and when no operation is performed, the presentation is not executed. Since the period during which the operation of the operation means is effective can be shortened for such a second operation means presentation, the tempo of the game (presentation) can be improved, and the interest of the game can be increased.

The present invention can increase the enjoyment of games.

1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating its external configuration. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the gaming machine. FIG. 11 is a state transition diagram of the game state. This is a diagram to explain the performance patterns. This is a diagram to explain the first operating means presentation. This is a diagram to explain the second operating means presentation.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. In the following description, "front and rear" basically means that when a player is in front of the gaming machine, the player side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "rear", "up and down" means that the top side of the gaming machine is "up" and the bottom side is "down", and "left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing on the gaming machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right".

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

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

At the center of the bottom of the front frame 10 is an upper tray 16 for storing game balls, and at the left part of the inner side of the upper tray 16 is a payout outlet 18 for paying out game balls from the gaming machine to the player. A grip unit 20 is provided at the bottom right of the front frame 10, and when the player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine, a launching device (not shown) installed inside the gaming machine is activated to launch game balls into the game area 4. The launching device of this embodiment can launch 99 game balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

A supply port 22 is provided on the right side of the inner side of the upper tray 16 to supply game balls from the upper tray 16 to the launching device. In addition, a lower tray 24 is provided below the upper tray 16 to store surplus game balls when the upper tray 16 cannot store all the game balls.

In addition, a performance button (performance operation means) 26 is provided on the front edge of the upper tray 16, and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance performed by the gaming machine changes.

Figure 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, a circular outer rail 27 is provided on the game board 6, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 27 is the game area 4 in which the game balls move. In addition, an arc-shaped inner rail 28 is provided on the left end of the game area 4 so as to follow the outer rail 27, and the outer rail 27 and the inner rail 28 guide the game balls launched from a launching device (not shown) provided below the game board 6 to the game area 4.

At the center of the game board 6, there is provided a presentation unit 36 that includes a liquid crystal display 32 (display means) that displays presentation images and the like to liven up the game, and a display frame 34 that is formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. And at the center above the liquid crystal display 32, the display frame 34 is provided with display frame lamps 38, 39 that output presentation lights and the like to liven up the game.

In this embodiment, the game ball cannot pass in front of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game ball launched from the launching device falls in the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 (left-hand hitting area) or the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32 (right-hand hitting area). In addition, numerous game nails (not shown) are nailed into the game area 4 so as to intersect with the surface of the game board 6, so that the movement direction of the game ball moving through the game area 4 changes randomly.

In addition, an opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34, through which game balls falling through the game area 4a on the left side of the LCD display 32 can pass. Game balls that pass through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the LCD display 32. The top surface of this stage 44 is smoothly curved, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 that allows game balls to fall downward from the stage 44. Game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth from side to side on the stage 44 before falling downward from near the center of the stage 44.

Below the center of the stage 44, a first start opening 46 is provided through which a game ball that has fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44 can enter. In addition, a first start opening switch 100 (see FIG. 4) that detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening 46 is arranged inside the first start opening 46. When the first start opening switch 100 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the first start opening 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. In addition, the main control board 200 executes a first special pattern lottery as a special pattern lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the first start opening switch 100. In addition, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to pay out prize balls based on the input of the detection signal from the first start opening switch 100. In addition, the game ball that has entered the first start opening 46 is collected inside the gaming machine.

To the left of the first starting hole 46 in the game area 4, multiple (three) general winning holes 47 (upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, and lower left general winning hole 47c) are provided. In addition, a general winning hole switch 101 (see FIG. 4) is arranged on the game board 6 to detect a game ball that has entered the upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, or lower left general winning hole 47c. When the general winning hole switch 101 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, or lower left general winning hole 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. In addition, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to perform a payout operation of the prize ball based on the input of the detection signal from the general winning hole switch 101. In addition, one general prize opening switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, or one may be provided for multiple (e.g., three) general prize openings 47. In addition to the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, general prize opening switches corresponding to these general prize openings may also be provided.

In addition, a pass gate 48 is provided in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, through which game balls pass without being collected inside the game machine. A gate switch 102 (see FIG. 4) that detects the passage of a game ball is provided inside the pass gate 48. When the gate switch 102 detects a game ball (the game ball passing through the pass gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102, the main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery that determines whether or not a normal win has been won.

In addition, a second start port 49 is provided below the passing gate 48 in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A second start port switch 103 (see FIG. 4) is provided in the second start port 49 to detect a game ball that has entered the second start port 49. When the second start port switch 103 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the second start port 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. In addition, the main control board 200 executes a second special pattern lottery as a special pattern lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. In addition, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to pay out prize balls based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. In addition, the game ball that has entered the second start port 49 is collected inside the gaming machine.

The second starting hole 49 is provided with a normal role 54 (assistance means) that can operate between a reduced state (a state in which entry is not assisted, a non-assistance state) in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49, and an expanded state (a state in which entry is assisted, an assist state) in which it is easy for the game ball to enter. The normal role 54 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to enter the expanded state under predetermined conditions when a normal winning is won in the normal symbol lottery.

The large prize opening 50 is provided in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A count switch 104 (see FIG. 4) is provided in the large prize opening 50 to detect game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50. When the count switch 104 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the large prize opening 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to perform a payout operation of prize balls. Based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the main control board 200 counts the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50. Based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 are collected inside the gaming machine.

The big prize opening 50 is provided with a special device 56 that can be operated between a closed state (second state, no entry state) in which the game ball cannot enter the big prize opening 50, and an open state (first state, entry state) in which the game ball can enter. The special device 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in the special game state that starts when a big prize is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery).

At the bottom of the game area 4, an outlet 62 is provided to collect game balls that have fallen through the game area 4 without entering any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, and 50 into the game machine. Here, inside the game machine, a discharge path (not shown) is provided through which game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass. In this game machine, all game balls shot into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) are configured to pass through the discharge path. That is, the game balls shot into the game area 4 are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the discharge path by entering any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, and 50 or passing through the outlet 62. Specifically, the game balls that have entered each winning hole 46, 47, 49, and 50 are detected by switches 100, 101, 103, and 104 arranged in the winning holes, and then guided to the discharge path. The game balls collected from the outlet 62 are guided to the discharge path. An out switch 106 (see FIG. 4) is provided in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects a game ball passing through the discharge path (discharge of a game ball from the game area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 counts the number of game balls discharged from the game area 4 based on the input of the detection signal from the out switch 106.

The game ball launching device is configured so that the launching force of the game ball changes by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in Figure 1. When the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game ball is launched so that it falls through the game area 4a on the left side of the LCD display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball is launched so that it falls through the game area 4b on the right side of the LCD display 32.

The player can therefore adjust the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 depending on the game situation, and launch the game ball so that it falls through the left-hand game area 4a or passes through the opening 40, passage 42 and stage 44 to enter the first starting hole 46 (left hit), or so that it falls through the right-hand game area 4b and passes through the passing gate 48 or enters the second starting hole 49 or enters the big winning hole 50 (right hit).

In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when the gaming ball falls in the left gaming area 4a, the gaming ball does not pass through the passing gate 48, and the gaming ball does not enter (win) the second starting opening 49 or the large winning opening 50. In addition, when the gaming ball falls in the right gaming area 4b, the gaming ball does not win in the first starting opening 46, the upper left general winning opening 47a, the middle left general winning opening 47b, and the lower left general winning opening 47c.

At the bottom right of the game board 6, outside the game area 4, there is a status display unit 70 that indicates various states of the game machine by turning on and off lamps, etc.

Figure 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. As shown in Figure 3, the status display unit 70 is provided with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal hold display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special hold display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 80, a second special hold display unit 82, and a game status display unit 84.

The normal pattern display unit 72 is composed of two lamps, and when a normal pattern lottery is being held, the two lamps are made to flash to display the normal pattern in a variable manner, and the normal pattern is displayed stationary by turning on or off the two lamps to display the result of the normal pattern lottery.

The normal reserve display unit 74 is made up of two lamps, and when the normal symbol is already in a changing or stationary display when the game ball passes through the passage gate 48, and the random number value for the normal symbol lottery is reserved because the normal symbol lottery cannot be performed even if the random number value for the normal symbol lottery is obtained, the normal reserve number corresponding to the number of reserved random number values for the normal symbol lottery is displayed. A normal reserve number of 0 to 4 is displayed by a combination of turning on, turning off, or blinking the two lamps.

The first special pattern display unit 76 is composed of a seven-segment display, and when a first special pattern lottery is held by a game ball entering the first starting hole 46, the seven-segment display is caused to flash to display the first special pattern in a variable manner, and the seven-segment display is caused to light up in one of a number of different manners to display the first special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the first special pattern lottery.

The first special reserve display unit 78 is composed of two lamps, and displays a first special reserve number corresponding to the number of reserved first special random number values when the random number value for special pattern selection is reserved as the first special random number value because it is not possible to perform a special pattern selection even if the random number value for special pattern selection (lottery information) is obtained, such as when the first special pattern or second special pattern is already being displayed in a changing or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the first starting hole 46, and displays a first special reserve number of 0 to 4 by combining the lighting, extinguishing, or blinking of the two lamps.

The second special pattern display unit 80 is composed of a seven-segment display, and when a second special pattern lottery is held by the entry of a gaming ball into the second starting hole 49, the seven-segment display is caused to flash to display the second special pattern in a variable manner, and the seven-segment display is caused to light up in one of a number of different manners to display the second special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the second special pattern lottery.

The second special reserve display unit 82 is composed of two lamps, and displays a second special reserve number corresponding to the number of reserved second special random number values when the random number value for special pattern selection is reserved as the second special random number value because a special pattern selection cannot be performed even if the random number value for special pattern selection is obtained, such as when the first special pattern or second special pattern is already being displayed in a changing or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the second starting hole 49, and displays a second special reserve number of 0 to 4 by combining the lighting, extinguishing, or blinking of the two lamps.

The game status display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and displays the type of game status currently set by a combination of turning on, off, or blinking the six lamps. In this embodiment, four types of game status can be set: a normal status (low probability status), a high probability status (high probability status/special status) in which the probability of winning a jackpot is set higher than in the normal status, a special game status that starts when a jackpot is won in a special symbol lottery, and a time-saving status (special status) in which the time for the first special symbol or second special symbol to change is shortened to trigger the execution of the special symbol lottery more frequently. The six lamps are turned on, off, or blinking in a combination to display which game status is currently set.

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

The main control board 200 controls the progress of the game. The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the first start port switch 100, the general winning port switch 101, the gate switch 102, the second start port switch 103, the count switch 104, or the out switch 106, and performs various calculations to execute the game. Based on the calculation results, the main control board 200 controls the operation of output means such as the status display unit 70, the normal role 54, the special role 56, or the payout device 130.

The sub-control board 202 controls the execution of effects based on information sent from the main control board 200. The sub-control board 202 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the effect button switch 150, which detects operation of the effect button 26, and performs various calculations to execute effects that match the progress of the game, and controls the operation of the effect devices, such as the LCD display 32, lamps 12, 38, 39, speaker 14, and effect drive devices, based on the calculation results.

The main control board 200 is configured to include a random number generating means 210, a normal symbol selection means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal gimmick control means 224, a special symbol selection means 230, a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250, a special game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290.

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

The normal symbol lottery means 220 acquires a normal symbol lottery random number value from the random number generation means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the gate switch 102 that detects each game ball passing through the passage gate 48, stores the random number value for the normal symbol lottery in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290, and performs a normal symbol lottery to determine whether or not a normal win has occurred for the normal symbol lottery random number value read from the normal random number storage means 2912. Specifically, the normal symbol lottery means 220 performs a normal win determination process as a normal symbol lottery.

The normal win determination process is a process for determining whether or not a normal win has been won. In the normal win determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects which of the multiple types of normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to in order to perform the random number determination process, depending on the game state. Here, each normal symbol lottery table is one in which a normal win or a loss is associated with each of the 100 normal symbol lottery random number values from 0 to 99. Then, the normal symbol lottery means 220 refers to the selected normal symbol lottery table and determines whether or not one of the normal symbol lottery random number values read from the normal random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal win, thereby determining whether or not a normal win has been won. Then, in the case where a normal win is won, the normal symbol selection means 220 sets the winning flag for the normal win to the ON state in the flag storage means 2916 of the main memory 290, and in the case where a loss is won, the winning flag for the normal win is set to the OFF state.

The normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is in a special probability state or a time-saving state is set to have a higher probability of winning a normal prize than the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is neither a special probability state nor a time-saving state. In other words, the normal symbol lottery performed when the game state is in a special probability state or a time-saving state has a higher probability of winning a normal prize than the normal symbol lottery performed when the game state is neither a special probability state nor a time-saving state.

The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the results of the normal pattern lottery, and performs normal pattern display control processing and normal hold display control processing.

In the normal symbol display control process, the normal display control means 222 changes the display of the normal symbol by flashing the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 until a predetermined change time has elapsed, and displays the result of the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol display unit 72 by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 to stop displaying the normal symbol depending on whether or not a normal hit has been won in the normal hit determination process.

Specifically, in this embodiment, if the game state at the time the normal symbol lottery is performed is neither a high probability state nor a time-saving state, the normal symbol fluctuation time is set to 20 seconds, and if the game state at the time the normal symbol lottery is performed is a high probability state or a time-saving state, the normal symbol fluctuation time is set to 1 second, so that the opportunity to perform the normal symbol lottery occurs more frequently when the game state is a high probability state or a time-saving state.

In the normal hold display control process, the normal display control means 222 displays a normal hold number between 0 and 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74 according to the number of random numbers for normal pattern selection stored in the normal random number storage means 2912.

The normal role control means 224 is a means for controlling the normal role 54 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery. When the game state is neither a high probability state nor a time-saving state, the normal role control means 224 controls the normal role 54 to operate in an expanded state and then to return to a reduced state until 0.1 seconds have elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a normal win. Also, when the game state is a high probability state or a time-saving state, the normal role control means 224 controls the normal role 54 to operate in an expanded state and then to return to a reduced state until 20 seconds have elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a normal win.

Therefore, when a normal win occurs in the normal symbol lottery, if the game state is neither a sure-win state nor a time-saving state, the normal device 54 operates so that the ease with which the game ball can enter the second start hole 49 is hardly increased, but if the game state is a sure-win state or a time-saving state, the normal device 54 operates so that the ease with which the game ball can enter the second start hole 49 is increased.

The special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 that detects each game ball entering the first start port 46, and stores the value as a first special random number in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. The special symbol lottery means 230 also acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103 that detects each game ball entering the second start port 49, and stores the value as a second special random number in the special random number storage means 2914. The special symbol lottery means 230 then uses the first or second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery that determines whether or not a jackpot has been won.

Specifically, the special random number storage means 2914 is provided with four first special reserve memory areas, first special reserve memory area 1 to first special reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired first special random number value, and four second special reserve memory areas, second special reserve memory area 1 to second special reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired second special random number value, and one special reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the first special reserve memory area 1 or the second special reserve memory area 1 and used in the special pattern lottery until the variable display and stop display of the first special pattern or the second special pattern ends.

When the special symbol selection means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol selection based on the input of a detection signal from the first start switch 100, if the first special random number value is not stored in any of the first special reservation memory area 1 to the first special reservation memory area 4, the special symbol selection means 230 first stores the acquired random number value for special symbol selection as the first special random number value in the first special reservation memory area 1. Then, when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, if the first special symbol or the second special symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the first special random number value or the second special random number value is not stored in the special reservation memory area, if the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, and the game state is not a special game state, the first special random number value is immediately read from the first special reservation memory area 1 to select a special symbol, and the first special random number value used for the special symbol selection is stored in the special reservation memory area. On the other hand, if the first special symbol or the second special symbol is being displayed variably or is being displayed stationary, i.e., if the first special random number value or the second special random number value is stored in the special reserve memory area, if the second special random number value is stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, or if the game state is a special game state, the first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1.

In addition, when a first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the first start switch 100 to obtain a random number value for the special symbol selection, the special symbol selection means 230 stores the first special random number value in the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 that has the smallest ordinal number and is not reserved for the first special random number value, on the condition that the number of first special random number values reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is less than four, i.e., on the condition that the first special reserve number is less than four.

Furthermore, when the special symbol selection means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol selection based on the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103, if the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, the special symbol selection means 230 first stores the acquired random number value for special symbol selection as the second special random number value in the second special reservation memory area 1. Then, when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reservation memory area 1, if the first special symbol or the second special symbol is not being displayed variably or stationarily, that is, if the first special random number value or the second special random number value is not stored in the special reservation memory area and the game state is not a special game state, the second special random number value is immediately read from the second special reservation memory area 1 to select a special symbol, and the second special random number value used for the special symbol selection is stored in the special reservation memory area. On the other hand, if the first special symbol or the second special symbol is being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the first special random number value or the second special random number value is stored in the special reserve memory area, or the game state is a special game state, the second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1.

In addition, when a second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the second start switch 103 to obtain a random number value for the special symbol selection, the special symbol selection means 230 stores the second special random number value in the second special reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4 in which the second special random number value is not reserved, on the condition that the number of second special random number values reserved in the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4 is less than four, i.e., on the condition that the second special reservation number is less than four.

Then, when the variable display and stationary display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol ends, the special symbol selection means 230 erases the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the special reservation memory area. If the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, and the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4 and the game state is not a special game state, the special symbol selection means 230 reads the first special random number value from the first special reservation memory area 1 to select a special symbol, and stores the first special random number value used for the special symbol selection in the special reservation memory area. On the other hand, when the second special random number value is stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, even if the first special random number value is stored in any of the first special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, the second special random number value is read from the second special reservation memory area 1 to draw a special symbol, and the second special random number value used to draw the special symbol is stored in the special reservation memory area, provided that the game state is not a special game state. That is, in this embodiment, the second special random number value is consumed in preference to the first special random number value. Note that, regardless of whether it is the first special random number value or the second special random number value, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be read in the order stored in the special random number storage means 2914 to draw a special symbol. That is, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be read in the order in which the game ball enters the first start hole 46 or the second start hole 49, and the special symbol lottery may be performed.

In addition, if the first special random number value remains in the first special reserve memory area 2 or later when the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1, or if the second special random number value remains in the second special reserve memory area 2 or later when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, the remaining first special random number value or second special random number value is moved from the original special reserve memory area to the special reserve memory area with the ordinal number one smaller. For example, when the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1, if the first special random number value remains in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4, the first special random number value stored in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is moved to each of the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 3, and when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, if the second special random number value remains in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3, the second special random number value stored in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3 is moved to each of the second special reserve memory area 1 to the second special reserve memory area 2.

As described above, in the special random number storage means 2914, the first special random number value or the second special random number value for which a special pattern lottery has been performed is reserved in the special reservation memory area with a maximum of one, the first special random number value for which a special pattern lottery has not been performed is reserved in the first special reservation memory area 1 to the first special reservation memory area 4 with a maximum of four, and the second special random number value for which a special pattern lottery has not been performed is reserved in the second special reservation memory area 1 to the second special reservation memory area 4 with a maximum of four.

The special symbol selection means 230 acquires multiple types of random numbers, such as a jackpot determination random number value and a pattern determination random number value, as random number values for special symbol selection based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and stores these multiple types of random numbers as first special random number values or second special random number values in the special random number storage means 2914. Then, the special symbol selection means 230 uses the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol selection that determines whether or not a jackpot has been won. Specifically, the special symbol selection means 230 performs a jackpot determination process, a pattern determination process, and the like as a special symbol selection process.

The jackpot determination process is a process for determining whether or not a jackpot has occurred by reading out one jackpot determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the special random number storage means 2914. Here, one jackpot determination random number value is obtained from 65,536 jackpot determination random number values from 0 to 65,535 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

In the jackpot determination process, the special symbol selection means 230 selects which of the multiple types of jackpot selection tables stored in the selection table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to for random number determination processing according to the game state. Here, each jackpot selection table is a table in which a jackpot or a miss is associated with each of 65,536 jackpot determination random number values from 0 to 65,535. The special symbol selection means 230 then refers to the selected jackpot selection table to determine whether or not one of the jackpot determination random number values read out is associated with a jackpot, thereby determining whether or not a jackpot has been won. In addition, if a jackpot has been won, the special symbol selection means 230 sets the jackpot winning flag in the flag storage means 2916 to the ON state, and if a miss occurs, sets the jackpot winning flag to the OFF state.

The jackpot selection table selected when the game state is in a special probability state is set to have a higher probability of winning a jackpot than the jackpot selection table selected when the game state is in a normal state or time-saving state. In other words, the jackpot determination process (special symbol selection) performed when the game state is in a special probability state has a higher probability of winning a jackpot than the jackpot determination process (special symbol selection) performed when the game state is in a normal state or time-saving state.

The pattern determination process is a process that is performed when a jackpot is won in the jackpot determination process, and is a process that reads out one pattern determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the special random number storage means 2914, and determines whether the jackpot pattern (type of jackpot) will be a 16-round probability variable pattern, a 4-round probability variable pattern, a 16-round normal pattern, or a 4-round normal pattern. Here, one pattern determination random number value is obtained from 100 pattern determination random number values from 0 to 99 based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

In the pattern determination process, the special pattern selection means 230 selects which of the multiple types of pattern selection tables stored in the selection table storage means 2910 to refer to for the random number determination process, depending on whether the one read pattern determination random number value was stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value. Here, each pattern selection table is one in which one of the 16-round probability variable pattern, the 4-round probability variable pattern, the 16-round normal pattern, and the 4-round normal pattern is associated with each of the 100 pattern determination random number values from 0 to 99. Then, the special pattern selection means 230 refers to the selected pattern selection table to determine which of the multiple types of jackpot patterns the one read pattern determination random number value is associated with, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot patterns has been won. In addition, the special pattern selection means 230 sets the winning flag corresponding to the winning jackpot pattern to the ON state in the flag storage means 2916.

The special display control means 240 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the results of the special pattern lottery, and performs a first special pattern display control process, a second special pattern display control process, a first special hold display control process, and a second special hold display control process.

The first special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when the first special random number value is read from the special random number storage means 2914 and a special pattern lottery is performed, and the special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the seven-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and then causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting the seven-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

In this embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is predefined to correspond to each of the four types of jackpot patterns and misses, and the special display control means 240 stops and displays the first special pattern by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a manner according to whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner according to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and causes the first special pattern display unit 76 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.

The second special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when a second special random number value is read from the special random number storage means 2914 and a special pattern lottery is performed, and the special display control means 240 causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the seven-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and then causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting the seven-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 in a predetermined manner.

Then, the special display control means 240 displays the second special pattern by lighting up the seven-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 in a manner according to whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner according to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and causes the second special pattern display unit 80 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.

In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays a first special hold number between 0 and 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking the two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78 according to the number of the first special random number value stored in the special random number storage means 2914.

In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays a second special hold number between 0 and 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking the two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82 depending on the number of second special random numbers stored in the special random number storage means 2914.

As shown in FIG. 5, the game state transition control means 250 performs a game state transition control process that transitions the game state between the normal state, special game state, special probability state, and time-saving state based on the establishment of a predetermined transition condition. A single game state transition condition may be defined, or multiple game state transition conditions may be defined. When multiple conditions are defined, the game state can be transitioned to another game state based on the establishment of one of the multiple predetermined conditions, or the establishment of all of the multiple predetermined conditions.

The normal state is a game state that corresponds to the initial state among the multiple game states, and it is possible to transition from the normal state to the special game state. In the normal state, the normal symbol lottery is performed by referring to the normal symbol lottery table, where the winning probability of a normal hit is set to approximately 1/20, and the special symbol lottery is performed by referring to the jackpot lottery table, where the winning probability of a jackpot is set to 1/319.

In addition, in the normal state, the probability of winning a normal prize in the normal symbol lottery is low at approximately 1/20, and the normal symbol variation time is set long, and the period during which the normal device 54 is in an expanded state is short at 0.1 seconds, making it difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49.

The special game state begins when a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery during the normal state, the special probability state, or the time-saving state, and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (number of executions) of special games have been played depending on the type of jackpot symbol.

Specifically, when the special game state starts based on the winning flag for the 16-round probability variation pattern being set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 16 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 16th round have been played.

In addition, when the special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag for the 4-round probability variation pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 4 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 4th round have been played.

In addition, when the special game state is started based on the winning flag for the 16-round regular pattern being set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 16 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 16th round have been played.

In addition, when the special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag for the 4-round regular pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 4 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 4th round have been played.

The probability variable state is initiated when the special game state, which is initiated based on the winning flag of the 16-round probability variable pattern or the 4-round probability variable pattern (probability variable pattern) being set to the ON state, ends, and it is possible to transition from the probability variable state to the special game state or the normal state. In addition, in the probability variable state, the normal pattern is drawn by referring to a normal pattern drawing table in which the winning probability of a normal win is set to approximately 19/20, and the special pattern is drawn by referring to a jackpot drawing table in which the winning probability of a jackpot is set to 1/31, making it more advantageous for the player than the normal state. The probability variable state ends when the number of times the special pattern has been drawn in the probability variable state reaches 9999, and the state transitions to the normal state.

Specifically, when the special game state ends, the game state transition control means 250 writes a value (e.g., 9999) equivalent to a predetermined number of games (e.g., 9999) to a probability-change end judgment counter (not shown) in the main memory 290, and performs a decrement update by subtracting a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one game from the stored value of the probability-change end judgment counter each time a special symbol lottery is performed in the probability-change state. Then, when the stored value of the probability-change end judgment counter reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the probability-change state ends and the normal state begins. However, since the probability of winning a jackpot in the special symbol lottery is set to 1/31 in the probability-change state, the special game state begins before the number of times the special symbol lottery has been performed in the probability-change state reaches 9999, and it is designed so that the probability-change state rarely transitions to the normal state.

In addition, in the special state, the probability of winning a normal jackpot in the normal symbol lottery is high at approximately 19/20, and the normal symbol fluctuation time is short at 1 second, and the period during which the normal device 54 is in an expanded state is long at 20 seconds, making it easier for the player to get the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state, which is advantageous for the player.

In addition, in the special bonus state, the time for the first or second special symbol to change is often set to a shorter time regardless of the number of reserved symbols, so the opportunity to draw the special symbols occurs more frequently than in the normal state.

The time-saving state is initiated when the special game state, which is initiated based on the winning flag for the 16-round normal symbol or 4-round normal symbol being set to the ON state, ends, and it is possible to transition from the time-saving state to the special game state or the normal state. In the time-saving state, the normal symbol lottery is performed by referring to a normal symbol lottery table in which the winning probability of a normal jackpot is set to approximately 19/20, just like in the probability-changing state, but the special symbol lottery is performed by referring to a jackpot lottery table in which the winning probability of a jackpot is set to approximately 1/319, just like in the normal state, making it more disadvantageous to the player than the probability-changing state. The time-saving state ends when the number of times the special symbol lottery has been performed in the time-saving state reaches 100, and the state transitions to the normal state.

Specifically, when the game state is transitioned to the time-saving state, the game state transition control means 250 writes a value (e.g., 100) equivalent to a predetermined number of games (e.g., 100 games) to the time-saving end determination counter 2932 in the main memory 290, and performs a decrement update by subtracting a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one game from the stored value of the time-saving end determination counter 2932 each time a special pattern lottery is performed in the time-saving state. Then, when the stored value of the time-saving end determination counter 2932 reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the time-saving state is terminated.

In addition, in the time-saving state, just like in the special state, the probability of winning a normal hit in the normal symbol lottery is high at about 19/20, and the normal symbol fluctuation time is short at 1 second, and the period during which the normal device 54 is in an expanded state is long at 20 seconds, so it is easier for the player to get the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state, which is advantageous for the player.

In addition, in the time-saving state, just like in the probability bonus state, the time for the first or second special symbol to change is often set to a shorter period regardless of the number of reserved symbols, so the opportunity to draw the special symbols occurs more frequently than in the normal state.

The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the results of the special symbol lottery, and performs special game execution process 1 to special game execution process 4, etc.

The special game execution process 1 is executed based on the fact that a 16-round probability variable pattern has been won in the special pattern lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 16) equivalent to 16 times, which is a predetermined number of rounds for the 16-round probability variable pattern, as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one round to the stored value of the round counter 2933 each time the special role 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 16), the special game state ends.

Specifically, in the special game execution process 1, in the special game of each of the first to sixteenth rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special device 56 is opened or when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball and the value of the big prize counter 2936, which is incremented by a value equivalent to one game ball (e.g., 1) when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, the drive control of the special device 56 is performed so that the special device 56 is in a closed state. Then, the end condition for one round is considered to be met, and "1" is incremented to the value of the round counter 2933.

The special game execution process 2 is executed based on the fact that a 4-round probability variable pattern has been won in the special pattern lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 4) equivalent to the predetermined number of rounds for the 4-round probability variable pattern as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one round to the stored value of the round counter 2933 each time the special role 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 4), the special game state ends.

Specifically, in the special game execution process 2, in the special game of each of the first to fourth rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the value of the big win counter 2936 reaches an upper limit (e.g., 10), the drive control of the special feature 56 is performed so that the special feature 56 is closed. Then, the end condition for one round is considered to be met, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.

The special game execution process 3 is executed based on the fact that a 16-round normal pattern has been selected in the special pattern lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 16) equivalent to 16 times, which is a predetermined number of rounds for the 16-round normal pattern, as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one round to the stored value of the round counter 2933 each time the special role 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 16), the special game state ends.

Specifically, in the special game execution process 3, in the special game of each of the first to sixteenth rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the value of the big win counter 2936 reaches an upper limit (e.g., 10), the drive control of the special feature 56 is performed so that the special feature 56 is closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition for one round has been met, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.

The special game execution process 4 is executed based on the fact that a four-round normal pattern has been won in the special pattern lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 4) equivalent to four times, which is a predetermined number of rounds for the four-round normal pattern, as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one round to the stored value of the round counter 2933 each time the special role 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 4), the special game state ends.

Specifically, in the special game execution process 4, in the special game of each of the first to fourth rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the value of the big win counter 2936 reaches an upper limit (e.g., 10), the drive control of the special feature 56 is performed so that the special feature 56 is closed. Then, the end condition for one round is considered to be met, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.

The payout control means 270 controls the payout device 130 to pay out a number of game balls equivalent to a number of prize balls that is predetermined for each detection signal based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100, the detection signal from the general winning port switch 101, the detection signal from the second start port switch 103, or the detection signal from the count switch 104. The number of prize balls may be any number greater than or equal to one, and the number of prize balls paid out from each of the first start port switch 100, the general winning port switch 101, the second start port switch 103, or the count switch 104 may be different or may be set to the same number of prize balls.

The payout device 130 performs the operation of paying out the number of game balls instructed by the payout control means 270. The payout device 130 has a payout motor in a game ball tank that stores the game balls, and the payout control means 270 controls the rotation angle of the payout motor to pay out the instructed number of game balls from the game ball tank. The payout device 130 is also provided with a payout switch that is activated each time a game ball is paid out, and the payout control means 270 can manage the number of game balls actually paid out from the payout device 130 based on a payout signal from the payout switch.

The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated according to the results of various calculations in the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202. Note that in the gaming machine of this embodiment, only one-way communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible between the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202, and the communication connection is such that the sub-control board 202 cannot transmit information to the main control board 200.

Next, the sub-control board 202 will be described. The sub-control board 202 includes a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 302. The sub-memory 302 also includes multiple types of RAM and ROM, and various data stored in the sub-memory 302 is stored in each RAM and ROM. The performance control means 300 controls the performance device, such as displaying a performance image on the liquid crystal display 32, turning on light-emitting parts such as lamps 12, 38, and 39, outputting performance sounds from the speaker 14, and driving the performance object drive device to operate the performance object, based on various commands sent from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150, and performance data stored in the ROM of the sub-memory 302, to cause the performance device to execute performances to liven up the game or assist the game.

The liquid crystal display 32 executes the performance by displaying a performance image on its display surface. The performance image displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is a composite image formed by overlapping multiple layers in which drawing materials (material images) are arranged.

The presentation screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is composed of, for example, 30 frames (hereafter referred to as frames) per second (a so-called frame rate of 30 fps). Therefore, for example, in the case of a presentation pattern that has a length of one minute, the presentation screen is made up of a total of 1,800 frames, that is, 60 seconds x 30 frames. Note that, for example, one second may be composed of 60 frames.

As shown in FIG. 6, the performance control means 300 executes a performance in which a performance pattern (demo pattern) 350 is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 in accordance with (corresponding to) the varying and stationary display of the special patterns in the first special pattern display section 76 or the second special pattern display section 80, and notifies the result of the special pattern lottery.

Figure 6 (a) shows the state before the special pattern starts to change. In the display area of the liquid crystal display 32, left performance pattern 350a, middle performance pattern 350b, and right performance pattern 350c are displayed as performance patterns 350. Left performance pattern 350a is displayed on the left side of the display area of the liquid crystal display 32, middle performance pattern 350b is displayed in the center of the display area of the liquid crystal display 32, and right performance pattern 350c is displayed on the right side of the display area of the liquid crystal display 32. Left performance pattern 350a, middle performance pattern 350b, and right performance pattern 350c each constitute nine types of performance pattern strings representing the numbers "1" to "9". Each performance pattern 350 representing the numbers "1" to "9" may be composed of decorative parts such as characters in addition to the numbers.

As shown in FIG. 6(b), the display of the effect pattern 350 changes (changing display effect) based on the start of the changing display of the special pattern. The downward arrow in the figure indicates that the effect pattern 350 is changing (scrolling) at high speed vertically.

As shown in FIG. 6(c), the effect pattern 350 is displayed in a stopped state based on the stopped display of the special pattern. The effect pattern 350 is displayed in a manner that corresponds to the result of the special pattern lottery. For example, if a jackpot is won in the special pattern lottery, the effect pattern 350 is displayed in a stopped state in a manner that corresponds to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process.

That is, each time the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is performed, the performance control means 300 causes the liquid crystal display 32 to execute a performance in which the left performance pattern 350a, the middle performance pattern 350b, and the right performance pattern 350c are displayed in a variable manner according to whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process in the special pattern lottery, and in a manner according to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a jackpot has been won, after displaying the left performance pattern 350a, the middle performance pattern 350b, and the right performance pattern 350c in a variable manner according to whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process in the special pattern lottery, or in a manner according to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a jackpot has been won.

The performance control means 300 executes the operation means performance at a predetermined opportunity. In the operation means performance, the performance control means 300 displays the operation means image 400 on the liquid crystal display 32 as shown in Figs. 7 and 8. The operation means image 400 is an image that imitates the performance operation means 26. In other words, the operation means image 400 can also be said to be the performance operation means 26 displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. The operation means image 400 is an image that instructs (prompts) the player to operate the performance operation means 26. The display of the operation means image 400 ends when the performance operation means 26 is operated while it is displayed, or when a predetermined period has passed since the display started without the performance operation means 26 being operated. The predetermined period can also be said to be a period during which the operation on the performance operation means 26 is valid. Hereinafter, the predetermined period is also called an operation valid period.
In addition, the performance operation means 26 may be, for example, a button, a predetermined lever, or an imitation of a predetermined object (for example, a gun or a sword). There may be a plurality of performance operation means 26. In other words, a plurality of types of images may be prepared as the operation means image 400, such as an image imitation of a button as the performance operation means 26, an image imitation of a lever as the performance operation means 26, and the like.

In this embodiment, a first operation means presentation and a second operation means presentation are provided as operation means presentations. FIG. 7 shows an example of a first operation means presentation. FIG. 8 shows an example of a second operation means presentation.

When the first operation means performance starts and the operation means 26 is operated within the operation effective period, the performance control means 300 displays an operation effect on the liquid crystal display 32 as shown in FIG. 7(b). As the operation effect is displayed, the operation means image 400 disappears from the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. The operation effect is an effect display indicating that the performance operation means 26 has been operated. In this embodiment, the operation effect includes a display in which the part where the operation means image 400 is displayed emits strong light, emphasizing the disappearance of the operation means image 400 (operation). In other words, in this embodiment, the operation effect includes the display of a light of a specific shape. The operation effect may also include a display showing the appearance of the performance operation means 26 being operated (such as being pressed down).

In addition, when the first operation means performance starts and the effective operation period elapses without the performance operation means 26 being operated within the effective operation period, the performance control means 300 causes the liquid crystal display 32 to display an operation effect, as shown in FIG. 7(b). That is, in the first operation means performance, regardless of whether the performance operation means 26 is operated within the effective operation period, the same effect display is executed as an effect display related to the operation means image 400. In other words, in the first operation means performance, the only difference between the cases where the performance operation means 26 is operated and the case where it is not is the start trigger of the operation effect (whether it is executed in response to an operation or in response to the passage of the effective operation period), and the same effect display is executed.

When the second operation means performance is started and the performance operation means 26 is operated within the effective operation period, the performance control means 300 causes the liquid crystal display 32 to display the operation effect, as shown in FIG. 8(b).
In addition, the operation effect in the first operation means presentation and the operation effect in the second operation means presentation may be the same or different.

Furthermore, when the second operation means performance starts and the operation valid period elapses without the performance operation means 26 being operated within the operation valid period, the performance control means 300 displays an expired effect on the liquid crystal display 32 as shown in Fig. 8(d). The expired effect is an effect display indicating that the performance operation means 26 has not been operated. In this embodiment, the expired effect is a display in which the operation means image 400 fades out (the performance operation means 26 on the liquid crystal display 32 gradually becomes lighter or smaller). That is, in the second operation means performance, different effect displays are executed as the effect display related to the performance operation means 26 depending on whether the performance operation means 26 has been operated or not operated within the operation valid period.
In addition, the expiration effect is displayed with weaker light emission in the portion where the operation means image 400 is displayed, compared to the operation effect. In other words, the operation effect is more likely to attract the player's attention than the expiration effect.

In this way, whether it is the first operation means presentation or the second operation means presentation, an effect display related to the operation means image 400 occurs. Specifically, whether it is the first operation means presentation or the second operation means presentation, when the operation means image 400 disappears, an effect display related to the disappearance of the operation means image 400 (operation effect or expiration effect: presentation related to the presentation operation means 26) occurs. Note that the operation means image 400 displayed in the first operation means presentation may be the same as the operation means image 400 displayed in the second operation means presentation. In other words, the first operation means presentation and the second operation means presentation have different effect displays executed when the presentation operation means 26 is not operated within the operation valid period, but until the effect display is executed, the same display may be displayed as the display related to the presentation operation means 26.

The execution time of the operation effect (the time from the start of display to the end of display) is 15 frames. The execution time of the expiration effect (the time from the start of display to the end of display) is 10 frames. In other words, the execution time of the operation effect is longer than the execution time of the expiration effect. With this configuration, it becomes easier for the player to confirm that the performance operation means 26 has been operated. Furthermore, if the execution time of the expiration effect is longer than the execution time of the operation effect, it is possible to make the player more aware that the performance operation means 26 has not been operated, and this can encourage the player to operate it from the next time onwards.

The display area for the operation effects (display area: the proportion of the entire display area of the liquid crystal display 32) is larger than the display area for the expired effects. The operation effects and expired effects may be displayed in front of the performance pattern 350. The operation effects may overlap with the performance pattern 350 in a larger area than the expired effects. This configuration makes it easier for the player to confirm that the performance operation means 26 has been operated.

The effective operation period in the second operation means presentation is shorter than the effective operation period in the first operation means presentation.

The performance executed in conjunction with the execution of an expired effect has a shorter performance execution time (the time from the start of display related to the performance to the end of display related to the performance) than the performance executed in conjunction with the execution of an operation effect. Here, the performance executed in conjunction with the execution of the first operation means performance and the execution of the operation effect is referred to as the first operation time performance (see FIG. 7(c)). The performance executed in conjunction with the execution of the second operation means performance and the execution of the operation effect is referred to as the second operation time performance (see FIG. 8(b) and (c)). The performance executed in conjunction with the execution of the second operation means performance and the execution of the expired effect is referred to as the non-operation time performance (see FIG. 8(d) and (e)). At this time, the non-operation time performance has a shorter execution time than the first operation time performance and the second operation time performance. Note that the second operation time performance may have a shorter execution time than the first operation time performance.

Also, the first result performance is a performance that is executed when the performance operation means 26 is operated within the operation valid period and a performance that is executed when the performance operation means 26 is not operated and a predetermined period has passed. Also, the second result performance is a performance that is executed when the second operation means performance is executed and the performance operation means 26 is operated within the operation valid period. Also, the third result performance is a performance that is executed when the second operation means performance is executed and the operation valid period has passed without the performance operation means 26 being operated. That is, the first result performance includes an operation effect and a first operation time performance. Also, the second result performance includes an operation effect and a second operation time performance. Also, the third result performance includes an expiration effect and a non-operation time performance. At this time, the third result performance has a shorter execution time than the first result performance and the second result performance. It should be noted that the second result performance may have a shorter execution time than the first result performance.
In addition, the non-operation time effect may not be executed. In other words, the execution time of the third result effect may be the same as the execution time of the expiration effect.
The first operation effect, the second operation effect, and the non-operation effect may be started after the operation effect or the expired effect ends, or after the operation effect or the expired effect starts, or may be started substantially simultaneously with the start of the operation effect or the expired effect. Also, it is preferable that the first operation effect, the second operation effect, and the non-operation effect end after the operation effect or the expired effect ends.

The first operation effect may be, for example, an effect that notifies the player of a win (such as an effect that notifies a big win) or an effect that notifies the player that the effect pattern 350 will continue to change. The second operation effect and the non-operation effect may be an effect that notifies the player of a win that is less important to the player than the first operation effect (an indication that is less relevant to a win: an indication that has a low expectation of a win). Here, a low relevance to a win includes a case where the indication is completely unrelated to a win. In this embodiment, the second operation effect is an indication in which a character that appeared in the second operation means effect acquires a specified item, as shown in FIG. 8(c). The non-operation effect is an indication in which the character disappears from the screen without acquiring a specified item (without the item being displayed on the screen), as shown in FIG. 8(e). The item acquired by the character may indicate the expectation of a win.

For example, for the first operation performance and the second operation performance, the performance sound related to each performance may be output from the speaker 14, and for the non-operation performance, the performance sound related to the performance may not be output from the speaker 14. For example, the performance control means 300 may output the voice of the character to the speaker 14 in the second operation performance, and may not output the voice of the character to the speaker 14 in the non-operation performance. In addition, the performance sound corresponding to the operation effect and the expiration effect may not be output from the speaker 14. In other words, regardless of whether the first operation performance, the second operation performance, or the non-operation performance is executed, the sound indicating that the performance operation means 26 has been operated (or the sound indicating the disappearance of the operation means image 400) may not be output from the speaker 14.

In addition, in the first operation means performance, the execution time of the first result performance (the time from the start of the performance to the end of the performance) may be different depending on whether the performance operation means 26 is operated during the operation valid period or not (and further depending on the time until the performance operation means 26 is operated). In other words, the operation means performance is performed while the performance pattern 350 (special pattern) is changing, and the change time of the performance pattern 350 (special pattern) is constant regardless of the time during which the operation means image 400 is displayed (the time until the first result performance is started). Therefore, the execution time of the first operation time performance may be changed so that the first operation time performance is performed in accordance with the timing when the performance pattern 350 is displayed in a stopped state (for example, so that the first operation time performance ends before the stopped display, or so that the first operation time performance ends after a predetermined period has passed since the stopped display). Specifically, for example, the time for repeating a predetermined display at the end (final stage) of the first operation time performance may be different depending on whether the performance operation means 26 is operated or not during the operation valid period (or depending on the time until the performance operation means 26 is operated), thereby adjusting the execution time of the first result performance. That is, the same first result performance may be performed depending on whether the performance operation means 26 is operated or not during the operation valid period (and further regardless of the time until the performance operation means 26 is operated), but the execution time of the first result performance may be changed. Note that, when changing the execution time of the first result performance in this way, it is preferable that the length of the execution time relationship with the second result performance and the third result performance is not changed regardless of the execution time of the first result performance. Note that the execution time of the operation effect may be different depending on whether the performance operation means 26 is operated or not during the operation valid period (or depending on the time until the performance operation means 26 is operated), but the execution time of the operation effect may not be different (it may be the same).
Similarly, with regard to the second result presentation, the execution time of the second result presentation (the execution time of the second operation presentation or the operation effect) may be made to differ (change) depending on the time until the presentation operation means 26 is operated.

There are multiple types of operation means images 400 that are displayed in the operation means performance. Specifically, the operation means images 400 include, for example, a default button (a white operation means image 400), a red button (a red operation means image 400), a gold button (a gold operation means image 400), and a giant button (an operation means image 400 that is displayed larger than the default button), and the predetermined expectation level (for example, the expectation level for a hit) differs depending on the type of operation means image 400 that is displayed.

In addition, in the second operation means presentation, a specific type of operation means image 400 is not displayed. In other words, when a specific type of operation means image 400 is displayed in the operation means presentation, if the presentation operation means 26 is not operated within the operation valid period, the expiration effect is not executed and the operation effect is executed. In this embodiment, when an operation means image 400 with a predetermined expectation level (e.g., expectation level for a win) equal to or higher than a predetermined level is displayed, the operation means presentation is not the second operation means presentation, and the expiration effect is not executed.

There are multiple types of operation modes of the performance operation means 26 in the operation means performance. In other words, there are multiple types of operation modes of the performance operation means 26 instructed (prompted) by the operation means image 400. Specifically, for example, there is an operation means performance (operation means image 400) that instructs pressing the performance operation means 26 once, an operation means performance (operation means image 400) that instructs hitting the performance operation means 26 repeatedly (pressing multiple times), and an operation means performance (operation means image 400) that instructs pressing and holding the performance operation means 26.

In addition, in the second operation means presentation, an operation in a specific operation mode is not instructed. In other words, when an operation in a specific operation mode is instructed in the operation means presentation, if the presentation operation means 26 is not operated within the operation valid period, the expiration effect is not executed and the operation effect is executed. In this embodiment, the operation means presentation (operation means image 400) instructing the presentation operation means 26 to be tapped repeatedly (pressed multiple times) and the operation means presentation (operation means image 400) instructing the presentation operation means 26 to be pressed and held are not included in the second operation means presentation, and the expiration effect is not executed.

The effect display related to the operation means image 400 includes post-effects and pre-effects. The post-effects are effect displays executed (started) after the operation means image 400 is displayed. The post-effects include operation effects and expired effects. The pre-effects are effect displays executed (started) before the operation means image 400 is displayed. The pre-effects as pre-effects (effects related to the appearance of the operation means image 400) executed (started) before the operation means image 400 is displayed include normal appearance effects and flying appearance effects (special appearance effects). The normal appearance effect takes about 0.5 seconds from the start of the effect display to the appearance of the operation means image 400. The flying appearance effect takes about 2 seconds from the start of the effect display to the appearance of the operation means image 400. That is, the flying appearance effect takes a longer time from the start of the effect display to the appearance of the operation means image 400 than the normal appearance effect. In other words, the flying appearance effect takes a longer time to execute the effect display (the time from the start of the display to the end of the display) than the normal appearance effect.

In addition, in the second operation means presentation, a specific type of effect is not displayed. Specifically, in the operation means presentation, when a flying appearance effect is executed, if the presentation operation means 26 is not operated within the operation valid period, the expired effect is not executed and the operation effect is executed. On the other hand, in the operation means presentation, when a normal appearance effect is executed, if the presentation operation means 26 is not operated within the operation valid period, there are cases where the expired effect is executed and cases where the operation effect is executed. In other words, in the second operation means presentation, a pre-effect whose execution time is longer than a predetermined time is not executed. Note that, regardless of the type of pre-effect, if a pre-effect is executed, the expired effect may not be executed.

The performance operation means 26 is adapted to move according to the player's operation so as to accept the player's operation, and is also adapted to move according to the control of the performance control means 300. That is, the gaming machine of this embodiment is equipped with a drive means (not shown) that drives a movable part (not shown) based on an instruction from the performance control means 300, and the performance operation means 26 has the movable part. The drive means may, for example, vibrate a specific part of the performance operation means 26 by driving the movable part, may protrude a push-down part (a part that the player presses down) of the performance operation means 26, or may move substantially the entire performance operation means 26. The drive of the movable part by the drive means may be executed when a specific expectation level (for example, an expectation level for a win) is equal to or higher than a specific level. The expectation level may also differ depending on the movement of the performance operation means 26 (for example, depending on whether the specific part is vibrated or the push-down part is protruded).

When the moving part is driven in conjunction with the execution of the operation means performance (before the start of the operation means performance or during the execution of the operation means performance, etc.), i.e., when the performance operation means 26 makes a predetermined movement, if the performance operation means 26 is not operated within the operation valid period, the expiration effect is not executed and the operation effect is executed. In other words, in the second operation means performance, the moving part is not driven by the drive means. In other words, when the performance operation means 26 makes a movement indicating that a predetermined expectation level (for example, the expectation level for a hit) is equal to or higher than a predetermined level in conjunction with the execution of the operation means performance, the operation means performance is not the second operation means performance, and the expiration effect is not executed.

The gaming machine of this embodiment can execute an operation means effect (button effect) in which a button image resembling a button is displayed as the operation means image 400, as well as an operation means effect (lever effect) in which a lever image resembling a lever is displayed as the operation means image 400. Also, when a lever image is displayed, if the operation means 26 is not operated within the effective operation period, the expiration effect is not executed and the operation effect is executed. In other words, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, as the operation means effect, a first operation means effect in which a button image is displayed, a first operation means effect in which a lever image is displayed, and a second operation means effect in which a button image is displayed can be executed, but a second operation means effect in which a lever image is displayed is not executed.

The gaming machine of this embodiment is
An operation means (performance operation means 26);
A display means (liquid crystal display 32) for displaying an image;
A performance control means 300 for controlling the execution of the performance;
The presentation includes an operation means presentation in which an operation means image 400 relating to the operation means is displayed on the display means, and the operation of the operation means is encouraged;
The operation means performance includes a first operation means performance and a second operation means performance,
the first operation means effect is an effect in which, when the operation means is not operated within a first period during which an operation on the operation means is valid, an effect display (operation effect) similar to that in the case where the operation means is operated within the first period is displayed as an effect display related to the operation means image,
the second operation means effect is an effect in which, when the operation means is not operated within a second period during which an operation on the operation means is valid, an effect display (an expired effect) different from an effect display in a case where the operation means is operated within the second period is displayed as an effect display related to the operation means image,
The second period is shorter than the first period.

In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when the performance operation means 26 is not operated during the period during which the operation of the performance operation means 26 is valid in the operation means performance, there are cases where the same display as when the performance operation means 26 is operated during that period and cases where a different display is performed. Therefore, the mode of performance when the performance operation means 26 is not operated in the operation means performance can be made diverse, and the interest of the game can be increased. Also, in the gaming machine of the embodiment, the second operation means performance, which displays differently from when the performance operation means 26 is operated, has a shorter period during which the operation of the performance operation means 26 is valid than the first operation means performance, which displays the same as when the performance operation means 26 is operated. For this reason, for example, the second operation means performance is executed with a relatively low importance when the performance operation means 26 is operated, and is not executed when the operation is not performed, and the period during which the operation of the performance operation means 26 is valid for such a second operation means performance can be shortened, so that the tempo of the game (performance) can be improved and the interest of the game can be increased. Also, for example, for the first operation means presentation, a presentation of relatively high importance (a presentation highly related to a win: a presentation with a predetermined expectation level or higher) is performed regardless of whether the presentation operation means 26 is operated, and while this presentation is ensured to be performed, the period during which the operation of the presentation operation means 26 is valid is extended, thereby preventing the player from missing out on the operation of the presentation operation means 26. Therefore, while this presentation is performed regardless of whether the presentation operation means 26 is operated, this presentation can be basically performed based on the operation of the presentation operation means 26, and the player can be given the impression that he or she has achieved a situation with high expectations on his or her own, thereby improving the interest of the game.

In addition, the gaming machine of this embodiment has
In the first operation means presentation, a first result presentation is executed when the operation means is operated within the first period and when the first period has elapsed without the operation of the operation means;
In the second operation means presentation, when the operation means is operated within the second period, a second result presentation is executed;
In the second operation means presentation, if the second period has elapsed without the operation of the operation means, a third result presentation is executed;
The execution time of the third result presentation is shorter than the execution time of the first result presentation and the execution time of the second result presentation.

With this configuration, for the second operation means presentation, in which the period during which operation of the presentation operation means 26 is effective is short, the execution time of the presentation when the presentation operation means 26 is not operated can be shortened, thereby improving the tempo of the game (presentation) and increasing the interest of the game.

The performance data (image data) for displaying the operation means image 400 (an image simulating the performance operation means 26) on the liquid crystal display 32 and the performance data for displaying various effects may be separate data or the same data. In addition, various effects may be displayed by changing the parameters (e.g., transparency) over time when drawing the operation means image 400 in the performance data for displaying the operation means image 400.

(Application to slot machines)
In this embodiment, an example of applying the present invention to a pachinko game machine that uses game balls as game value has been described, but the present invention may also be applied to a slot machine in which the number of bets is set using medals or electronic information as game value, the reels are spun by operating the start lever to start the game, the spinning reels are stopped by operating the stop button, and a prize can be won depending on the type of pattern or combination of patterns when the reels stop.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the game control form and configuration of a pachinko game machine or a slot machine are not limited to those of the above-described embodiment. The above-described control operation can also be applied to other game machines, such as medal-less game machines.

In addition, within the scope of the present invention, each component can be freely combined, or each component can be arbitrarily modified, or each component can be omitted, etc.

26 Production operation means 34 Liquid crystal display (display means)
300 Production control means 400 Operation means image

Claims (1)

An operating means;
A display means for displaying an image;
A performance control means for controlling the execution of the performance,
the presentation includes a presentation of an operation means in which an operation means image relating to the operation means is displayed on the display means, and the operation of the operation means is encouraged;
The operation means performance includes a first operation means performance and a second operation means performance,
the first operation means effect is an effect in which, when the operation means is not operated within a first period during which an operation on the operation means is valid, an effect display for the operation means image is displayed in the same manner as an effect display in the case where the operation means is operated within the first period;
the second operation means effect is an effect in which, when the operation means is not operated within a second period during which an operation on the operation means is valid, an effect display related to the operation means image is displayed that is different from an effect display in a case where the operation means is operated within the second period,
The gaming machine, wherein the second period is shorter than the first period.

Images