JP7530107B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Operation effects that require a player to operate an operating means are known. One type of operation effect is one in which the result of the operation of the operating means is revealed as a result of the operation, i.e., one that is used for winning/losing branching (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). However, there is a risk that it may be difficult for a player (a player who has never come across the operation effect in question, or has only come across it a few times) to tell whether or not the operation effect is used for winning/losing branching.

JP 2017-000295 A

The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a gaming machine that can execute easy-to-understand operational presentations.

The gaming machine of the present invention, which has been made to solve the above problems, is a gaming machine in which three decorative pattern groups, each containing multiple types of decorative patterns, are displayed in a variable manner, and if the result of a win/lose lottery is a win, the three decorative patterns selected from each of the three decorative pattern groups will be the same type, and the establishment of a reach is determined when the two decorative patterns selected and displayed from two of the multiple decorative pattern groups are the same type. The gaming machine is equipped with an operation means that can be operated by a player, an introduction performance in which a successful ending is set when an operation image representing the operation means becomes a predetermined pattern, and an unsuccessful ending is set when the predetermined pattern does not become the predetermined pattern, and an operation execution means that executes an operation performance that is executed when the introduction performance reaches a successful ending and that prompts the player to operate the operation means, and is characterized in that, when the introduction performance reaches a successful ending, it is indicated that the operation image will become the predetermined pattern and the establishment of the reach is indicated.

The gaming machine of the present invention is capable of executing easy-to-understand operation presentations.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. A diagram showing decorative patterns and reserved patterns displayed in the display area. 13 is a diagram for explaining the game state (transition of the game state). FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the introduction performance. This is a diagram to explain the operation presentation after the introductory presentation ends successfully. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining specific example 1-1. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining specific example 1-3-1. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining specific example 1-3-2. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining specific example 1-3-3. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a virtual presentation. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the virtual presentation (continuation of FIG. 10). FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining specific example 2-1. FIG. 2 is a second diagram for explaining specific example 2-1. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining specific example 2-2. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining specific example 2-3.

1) Basic Configuration of the Gaming Machine Hereinafter, one embodiment of the gaming machine 1 (pachinko gaming machine) according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be briefly described with reference to Fig. 1. In the following description, the term "image" includes not only still images but also moving images.

The gaming machine 1 includes a gaming board 90. The gaming board 90 is made of a substantially square piece of plywood, and has a guide rail 903 that is substantially arc-shaped and forms a path that guides gaming balls launched by operating a launching device 908 (launching handle) to a gaming area 902.

The game area 902 is provided with a display device 91 which is the main display device, a starting area 904, a big prize area 906, an outlet, and the like. The display area 911 of the display device 91 is a portion which can be seen through an opening 901 formed in the game board 90. The game area 902 is also provided with a number of game pegs which act as obstacles against which the game balls collide and which change the way the game balls flow down. The game balls flowing down the game area 902 change into various forms depending on the conditions when they collide with the game pegs.

In such a gaming machine 1, gaming balls are launched toward the gaming area 902 by operating the launching device 908. When a gaming ball flowing down the gaming area 902 enters a winning area such as the starting area 904 or the big winning area 906, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out by the payout device.

Note that we will not explain components of the gaming machine 1 that are not related to the present invention, such as the frame of the gaming machine 1 and the lower and upper trays that store the gaming balls. These components can have the same structure as known gaming machines.

The lottery for the big win is executed by a winning/losing lottery means provided on a control board (not shown) when a game ball enters the starting area 904. In this embodiment, a first starting area 904a (the so-called "special chart 1" starting area) and a second starting area 904b (the so-called "special chart 2" starting area) are provided as the starting area 904. When a game ball enters the starting area 904, a number (winning/losing lottery information) is obtained from a random number source, and if the number is the same as the predetermined winning number, it is a big win, and if it is different, it is a loss. In this embodiment, the notification of the winning/losing lottery results will be started in the order in which the number is obtained, but if there is winning/losing lottery information for which the notification of the winning/losing lottery result has not yet been completed, the newly obtained winning/losing lottery information is stored as reserved information (strictly speaking, pre-variation reserved information to be described later) in a storage means provided on a control board (not shown).

In this embodiment, as the reserved pattern 70, a reserved pattern 71 (a pattern indicating the existence of the so-called "reserved change") corresponding to the winning/losing lottery information (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the reserved information during change) in which the during-change performance (from the start of the change of the decorative pattern 80 (decorative pattern group 80g) to the complete stop of the combination indicating the winning/losing lottery result, which is the so-called performance during one change. Hereinafter, it may be referred to simply as "change" or "rotation") that notifies the winning/losing lottery result has started, but the notification of the winning/losing lottery result has not been completed, and a reserved pattern 72 before the change corresponding to the winning/losing lottery information (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the reserved information before the change) in which the during-change performance that notifies the winning/losing lottery result has not started (see FIG. 2). In this embodiment, the reserved pattern 71 before the change is displayed larger than the reserved pattern 72 before the change, but the basic form of both is the same. The basic form of the reserved pattern 71 before the change and the reserved pattern 72 before the change may be completely different. Also, the pending pattern 71 during the change may not be displayed. The order in which the winning/losing lottery results corresponding to the pending pattern 72 before the change are notified (the so-called pending "consumption order") is earlier for the pattern located to the right.

The maximum number of pre-change reserved information is limited. In this embodiment, the maximum number of first pre-change reserved information (special chart 1 reserved) obtained by winning the first starting area 904a is four, and the maximum number of second pre-change reserved information (special chart 2 reserved) obtained by winning the second starting area 904b is four. Therefore, with respect to the reserved pattern 70 corresponding to one of the special charts 1 and 2, one reserved pattern 71 during change and up to four pre-change reserved patterns 72 may be displayed (see FIG. 2). The pre-change reserved pattern 72 is set so that if the game ball should be launched aiming at the first starting area 904a (normal game state to be described later), the first pre-change reserved information (special chart 1 reserved) is displayed as the pre-change reserved pattern 72, and if the game ball should be launched aiming at the second starting area 904b (special game state to be described later), the second pre-change reserved information (special chart 2 reserved) is displayed as the pre-change reserved pattern 72. Regardless of the game state, the pre-change reserved pattern 72 corresponding to both the first pre-change reserved information and the second pre-change reserved information stored in the storage means may be displayed (up to eight pre-change reserved patterns 72 may be displayed).

In this embodiment, as in known gaming machines, the winning/losing lottery result is notified to the player by the combination of decorative patterns 80 (see FIG. 2) displayed in the display area 911 of the display device 91. Specifically, a decorative pattern group 80g (left decorative pattern group 80gL, middle decorative pattern group 80gC, right decorative pattern group 80gR) including multiple types of decorative patterns 80 starts to change, and finally one decorative pattern 80 is selected from each decorative pattern group 80g and stops. If a jackpot is won, the combination of decorative patterns 80 selected and stopped from each decorative pattern group 80g (left decorative pattern 80L, middle decorative pattern 80C, right decorative pattern 80R lined up from the left) is a predetermined combination (in this embodiment, three of the same type of decorative pattern 80). If a loss occurs, the combination is other (other than the combination that results in a jackpot). The decorative pattern 80 may be a combination of numbers and characters, etc.

In addition, images (so-called "small symbols" or the like) showing various information may be displayed unobtrusively near the outer edge of the display area 911 (illustration of such images is omitted in each figure). The player can enjoy the game without being aware of this type of image. In other words, it is basically possible to understand the results of the lottery by looking at the decorative symbols 80.

In this embodiment, a normal game state and a special game state are set as game states (see FIG. 3). The special game state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state. The normal game state is a low-probability game state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is low, and is a low base state (low probability, no time reduction) in which the game ball is unlikely to enter the starting area 904. The special game state is a high-probability game state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is high, and is a high base state (high probability, time reduction) in which the game ball is likely to enter the starting area 904. In the normal game state, the player launches the game ball aiming at the first starting area 904a. In this embodiment, a so-called "left hit" is performed. In the special game state, the player launches the game ball aiming at the second starting area 904b. In this embodiment, a so-called "right hit" is performed. The special game state is a state in which it is easy to win the lottery to open the second starting area 904b, which is triggered by the game ball entering the normal starting area 905, so it is relatively easy for the game ball to enter the second starting area 904b.

In this embodiment, the special game state is entered after all jackpot games have ended. The special game state ends when the winning/losing lottery results are a miss a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times). When the special game state ends, the normal game state is entered. If the jackpot is won before the predetermined number of consecutive misses after the transition to the special game state, the game state will transition again to the special game state (the count of the predetermined number of times will be reset). In other words, the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is a so-called ST machine in which the condition for consecutive wins is to win a jackpot before the predetermined number of consecutive misses after the transition to the special game state. Note that, unless otherwise specified in the following description, the game characteristics (specifications) are merely one example. For example, it may be a so-called probability loop machine. It may also be a V probability machine. It may also be a gaming machine (one-type/two-type mixed machine) equipped with a so-called small win, in which a jackpot can be won by a game ball entering a predetermined area when the small win is won. In addition, a game state different from the normal game state and the special game state may be set, for example, a low probability game state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is low, and a high base state (low probability, with time reduction) in which the game ball is more likely to enter the starting area 904.

When the winning/losing lottery result is a jackpot, a jackpot game is executed. A jackpot game is a unit game in which the jackpot area 906 (see FIG. 1; the jackpot area 906 is normally closed) is opened one or more times until a predetermined closing condition is established. The closing condition is established when either a predetermined number of game balls (e.g., 10 balls) enter the jackpot after the jackpot area 906 is opened (winning condition) or a predetermined time has passed after the jackpot area 906 is opened (time condition). In this embodiment, if game balls are continuously shot toward the jackpot area 906 in a jackpot game, the winning condition is established before the time condition is established. In other words, 10 game balls enter the jackpot area 906 in one unit game. A unit game is also called a round (game). The number of unit games (number of rounds) included in a jackpot game can be set appropriately. In this embodiment, all jackpots are 10-round jackpots.

2) Introduction performance, operation performance The gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment can execute an introduction performance (see FIG. 4) and an operation performance (see FIG. 5) as performances constituting the during-change performance. In this embodiment, when an introduction performance occurs in a certain during-change performance, an operation performance may occur in the same during-change performance (the operation performance may not occur). In the following description, the during-change performance is referred to as a target during-change performance, and the winning/losing lottery result corresponding to the target during-change performance may be referred to as a target winning/losing lottery result. Note that the operation performance is a performance in which the player is prompted to operate the operation means 10, and the operation performance may occur without going through the introduction performance, but hereinafter, when simply referring to the operation performance, it refers to an operation performance that assumes the occurrence of the introduction performance. In this embodiment, the introduction performance starts with the start of the target change performance. In other words, the introduction performance is executed during a period including the start of the target change performance.

The introduction performance (see FIG. 4) ends in a successful ending (see FIG. 4(c-1)) or a failed ending (an ending that is not a successful ending) (see FIG. 4(c-2)). When the introduction performance occurs, an operation image 20 representing the operation means 10 is displayed. In this embodiment, the operation means 10 that can be operated by the player are provided with a first operation means 11 and a second operation means 12 (see FIG. 1). The first operation means 11 is a general push button (operated by pressing downward). The second operation means 12 is operated in the depth direction. Note that the same operation object may be configured to be treated as a different operation means 10, but the operation mode may be different. In this embodiment, the operation performance that may occur on the premise of the occurrence of the introduction performance is one that prompts the operation of the first operation means 11 (push button). Therefore, the operation image 20 displayed in the introduction performance is the first operation image 21 representing the first operation means 11 (see FIG. 4(a)). The operation image 20 may be slightly deformed as long as the player can understand that it represents the corresponding operation means 10.

The introduction performance is set such that the first operation image 21 becomes a predetermined mode as a successful ending, and the failure of the predetermined mode as a failed ending. In this embodiment, the predetermined mode is that the first operation image 21, which is displayed in a variable manner, is stopped and displayed at a predetermined position that is approximately the center of the display area 911. In other words, if the introduction performance ends in a successful ending, the first operation image 21 is stopped and displayed at the predetermined position (see FIG. 4(c-1)), whereas if the introduction performance ends in a failed ending, the first operation image 21 does not stop at the predetermined position (see FIG. 4(c-2)). In this embodiment, when the introduction performance starts, the first operation image 21 is displayed so as to displace from the top to the bottom of the display area 911 (displayed in a variable manner from the top to the bottom) (see FIG. 4(a)). If the result is a successful ending, the displacement stops at the predetermined position (see FIG. 4(c-1)). If the result is a failed ending, the displacement does not stop at the predetermined position, and the image slides down as it is (see FIG. 4(c-2)). Also, just before the outcome is revealed, a teasing effect is generated (see FIG. 4(b)) that indicates that the first operation image 21 is about to stop at a predetermined position (the speed of change decreases near the predetermined position). This allows the player to understand that the first operation image 21 is about to stop at a predetermined position.

In addition, in the introduction performance in this embodiment, an image showing the above-mentioned predetermined position (hereinafter referred to as the guide image 29) is displayed from the state before the ending is determined (see FIG. 4(a) and the like). For example, an image showing the first operation means 11, which is semi-transparent so that the background image (not shown) can be seen through, is displayed in the above-mentioned predetermined position as the guide image 29 (the guide image 29 is shown by a "dotted line" in the drawing). If the introduction performance leads to a successful ending, the first operation image 21 will stop at the predetermined position, and the first operation image 21 and the guide image 29 will overlap, resulting in the first operation image 21 being displayed in the predetermined position. If the introduction performance leads to a failed ending, the first operation image 21 will not stop at the predetermined position, and will pass the predetermined position (the guide image 29) as it is (moving until it is outside the display area 911) (see FIG. 4(c-1), (d)). By displaying this kind of guide image 29 (an image that mimics the first operation image 21), the player can easily understand that stopping the first operation image 21 at the position where the guide image 29 is displayed (the specified position) will result in a happy ending.

In the introduction performance, whether or not a reach is established is indicated at the same time as whether or not the first operation image 21 becomes a predetermined state. As described above, in this embodiment, the winning/losing lottery result is announced by the combination of three decorative patterns 80 selected from each of the three decorative pattern groups 80g. When the two decorative patterns 80 selected and displayed from two of the three decorative pattern groups 80g are the same type (in this embodiment, they are the same "number" pattern), it is considered that a "reach" (is established). In this embodiment, when the left decorative pattern 80L selected from the left decorative pattern group 80gL and the right decorative pattern 80R selected from the right decorative pattern group 80gR are the same type, it is considered that a reach is established, and when they are not the same type, it is considered that a reach is not established.

In the introduction performance, the left decorative pattern 80L that may constitute a reach and the right decorative pattern 80R of the same type (two candidate patterns that may become a reach pattern) are displayed together with the first operation image 21. That is, decorative patterns 80 with the same numbers are displayed on the left and right. Before the outcome is known, the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R are displayed variably together with the first operation image 21. As described above, in this embodiment, the first operation image 21 is displaced from top to bottom, and the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R are also displaced from top to bottom accordingly (see FIG. 4(a)). The left decorative pattern 80L, the first operation image 21, and the right decorative pattern 80R are displayed variably from top to bottom in a state where they are lined up horizontally from the left of the display area 911. In the teasing performance, it is shown that the left decorative pattern 80L is likely to stop on the left side of the first operation image 21, and the right decorative pattern 80R is likely to stop on the right side (see FIG. 4(b)).

If the introduction performance ends in a success, the establishment of a reach is indicated. That is, the first operation image 21 is stopped at a predetermined position, and the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R of the same type (same number) are stopped on both sides of the width direction (as if sandwiching the first operation image 21) (the "stop" of the decorative pattern 80 includes a pseudo-stop (for example, a state in which it is slightly swaying) that does not stop completely but appears to the player to be stopped. The same applies below), and the establishment of a reach is indicated (see FIG. 4 (c-1)). On the other hand, if the introduction performance ends in a failure, the establishment of a reach is indicated. That is, the first operation image 21 does not stop at a predetermined position, and the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R do not become the same type. In this embodiment, the left decorative pattern 80L stops as it is (stops to the left of the first operation image 21), but the right decorative pattern 80R does not stop but moves to the outside of the display area 911 (see FIG. 4 (c-2)). Instead, a different type of symbol from the left decorative symbol 80L is displayed as the right decorative symbol 80R on the right side of the first operation image 21. In other words, in the case of a failed outcome, the left decorative symbol 80L and the right decorative symbol 80R displayed on both sides of the width of the first operation image 21 will be of different types, indicating that the reach has not been achieved (see FIG. 4(d)).

If the introduction performance ends in failure, different types of left decorative pattern 80L and right decorative pattern 80R are displayed, followed by a middle decorative pattern 80C, and the three decorative patterns 80 form a "losing combination" (see FIG. 4(d)). This notifies the player that the result of the target winning/losing lottery is a losing combination. In other words, the introduction performance ends in failure when the result of the target winning/losing lottery is a losing combination.

When the introduction performance is a successful conclusion (see FIG. 4(c-1)), the operation performance (see FIG. 5) is executed. Specifically, when the reach is established and the first operation image 21 stops at a predetermined position, the operation of the first operation means 11 is prompted using the first operation image 21 (see FIG. 5(a)). In this embodiment, the operation effective period (the period during which the operation of the first operation means 11 is reflected in the performance) is set with the start of the operation performance as a trigger, and a meter image 25 indicating the elapse (remaining) of the operation effective period and an operation mode image 26 indicating the operation mode of the first operation means 11 required by the player are displayed. Since the operation performance in this embodiment requires a single operation of the first operation means 11, the operation mode image 26 indicating the single operation (for example, an image including the character "push") is displayed (see FIG. 5(a)). If the operation mode required is different, a different operation mode image may be displayed. For example, if a continuous operation of continuously operating the first operating means 11 is required, an operation mode image including the characters "repeated hit" may be displayed, and if a maintenance operation of maintaining the state in which the first operating means 11 is operated is required, an operation mode image including the characters "long press" may be displayed. A player who sees the first operating image 21, meter image 25, and operation mode image 26 will understand that he is in a situation where he should operate the first operating means 11.

When an operation of the first operating means 11 that satisfies a predetermined condition is performed during the valid operation period of the operation presentation (see FIG. 5(b)), the result of the operation presentation is displayed. As described above, since the operation presentation in this embodiment requires a single operation, the result of the operation presentation is displayed when a single operation of the first operating means 11 is detected during the valid operation period. Note that if no operation of the first operating means 11 is performed during the valid operation period, the result of the operation presentation is displayed when the valid operation period ends.

The operation presentation leads to an advantageous result that is advantageous to the player (see FIG. 5(c-1)) or an unfavorable result that is unfavorable to the player (see FIG. 5(c-2)). The result of the operation presentation is to indicate the result of the target winning/losing lottery. In other words, the operation presentation is a "win/lose branch" in which the result of the winning/losing lottery is determined. If the result of the target winning/losing lottery is a jackpot, the result is advantageous, and if it is a miss, the result is unfavorable. As an advantageous result, a reversal pattern may be provided in which an unfavorable result appears to have been reached but is then reversed. In this embodiment, if the operation presentation leads to an advantageous result, a jackpot combination of three decorative patterns 80 is displayed. Specifically, a middle decorative pattern 80C of the same type as the left decorative pattern 80L and right decorative pattern 80R that were displayed when the introduction presentation led to a successful conclusion is displayed, and the three decorative patterns 80 announce that the target winning/losing lottery is a jackpot (see FIG. 5(c-1)). On the other hand, when the operation performance has reached an unfavorable result, a losing combination of the three decorative symbols 80 is displayed. Specifically, the left decorative symbol 80L and the right decorative symbol 80R, which were displayed when the introduction performance reached a successful conclusion, and the middle decorative symbol 80C, which is different from the left decorative symbol 80L and the right decorative symbol 80R, are displayed, and the three decorative symbols 80 inform the player that the target winning/losing lottery has ended in a loss (see FIG. 5(c-2)). Note that the combination of decorative symbols 80 displayed when the operation performance has reached an unfavorable result is a losing combination of a reach-established winning combination (the left decorative symbol 80L and the right decorative symbol 80R are the same type, and the middle decorative symbol 80C is a different type, a so-called "reach-miss" combination) (see FIG. 5(c-2)), and the combination of decorative symbols 80 displayed when the introduction performance has reached a failed conclusion is a losing combination of a reach-not-established winning combination (the left decorative symbol 80L and the right decorative symbol 80R are different types) (see FIG. 4(d)), and the basic aspects are different. From this, it is clear that the operation performance is a type of reach performance (an unfavorable ending to the introductory performance is a miss when the reach is not established).

In summary, in the target change performance during which the introduction performance occurs, if the result of the target hit/miss lottery is a miss, the introduction performance will end in a failure, or after the introduction performance ends in a success, the operation performance will end in an unfavorable result. In the target hit/miss lottery is a jackpot, the introduction performance will end in a success, and after the operation performance ends in an advantageous result.

The above-mentioned operation presentation in this embodiment is used to determine the result of the lottery when the operation of the operating means 10 satisfies a predetermined condition, i.e., to branch off between winning and losing. Since the introductory presentation indicates that a win or loss has been achieved and then the operation presentation starts (if the win or loss has not been achieved, the operation presentation does not start), it is easy to see that the operation presentation is occurring as a win or loss branch.

In addition, in this embodiment, the operation effect is started when the operation image 20 in a predetermined form is displayed between the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R, which are decorative patterns 80 of the same type indicating the establishment of a reach, so that it is more clearly indicated that the operation effect is being executed in response to the establishment of a reach.

The following describes specific examples of improvements, specific embodiments, and modifications to the above-mentioned introductory and operational aspects. Note that, to the extent possible, the configuration may apply a combination of multiple technologies described using the following specific examples.

〇Specific example 1-1
The flow from the introduction performance to the operation performance in the above embodiment, to the result of the operation performance to the announcement of the winning or losing lottery result, should be applied to the "high-speed consumption" fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time (referring to the time required for the fluctuation performance) is extremely short, that is, the fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time required for the target fluctuation performance is short. Specifically, it is as follows.

As the variation time (winning variation time) when the winning/losing lottery result is a jackpot, multiple types of candidate times (winning variation candidate times) with different lengths are set. For example, N types of candidate times are set, from candidate time 1 (shortest) to candidate time N (longest), in order of length from shortest to longest (see FIG. 6). When the winning/losing lottery result is a jackpot, one of the multiple candidate times is set as the actual winning variation time, and the variation performance is executed. On this premise, the variation time when the jackpot is notified after the introduction performance and the operation performance is set to the shortest candidate time (candidate time 1) without exception. In other words, the notification of the jackpot after the introduction performance and the operation performance is configured as the pattern that requires the shortest time until the jackpot is notified. If the operation performance is executed during a short variation time, the operation performance will occur immediately after the start of the variation, making it difficult for the player to feel that the operation performance is occurring as a winning/losing branch (because generally, the operation performance that occurs immediately after the start of the variation is often not a winning/losing branch). However, as explained in the above embodiment, the operation effect occurs after the introductory effect indicates that a reach has been achieved, which reduces the risk that the player will feel this way.

The change time in the case of a winning change including an introduction effect and an operation effect may be set to be one of two or more candidate times counted from the shortest, which is a part of the multiple candidate times described above. For example, the change time in the case of a winning change including an introduction effect and an operation effect may be set to be one of candidate time 1 (the shortest candidate time) and candidate time 2 (the next shortest candidate time after candidate time 1).

The fluctuation time in the case of a losing variation that includes an introduction effect and an operation effect does not have to be the shortest of the candidate times that can be set as the fluctuation time of a losing variation (candidate time for a losing variation). Since a losing variation is usually set to have a relatively short fluctuation time compared to a winning variation, it is good to set the fluctuation time for which an introduction effect and an operation effect are not generated to be short as well.

Specific Example 1-2 (a more specific example of Specific Example 1-1)
The setting is such that the notification of the big win through the introduction performance and the operation performance occurs only in a specific game state. For example, as in the above embodiment, the configuration is such that the normal game state and the special game state that is more advantageous to the player can be set, and the fluctuation including the introduction performance and the operation performance does not occur in the normal game state, but can occur in the special game state.

In this case, the in-fluctuating effect, in which the shortest candidate time for winning fluctuation among the candidate times that can be set in the special game state is set as the fluctuation time, should include the above-mentioned introduction effect and operation effect without exception. In other words, if the setting is such that the introduction effect and operation effect occur only in some of the multiple game states (those in which at least one of the "win/lose lottery probability" and the "base" is different are considered to be different game states), the introduction effect and operation effect will occur when it is the shortest winning fluctuation time in a specific game state in which they can occur.

Specific example 1-3
In the case where the introduction performance is a successful conclusion, there is a certain relationship between the type of the decorative pattern 80 (left decorative pattern 80L and right decorative pattern 80R) that becomes the reach pattern and the mode of the operation performance. For example, the following configuration is considered.

・Specific example 1-3-1
A certain relationship is assumed between the type of decorative pattern 80 (left decorative pattern 80L and right decorative pattern 80R) that becomes a reach pattern when the introduction performance is a successful conclusion and the operation means 10 that is requested to be operated in the operation performance. For example, as operation performances that can occur after the introduction performance, a first operation performance that requests the operation of the first operation means 11 and a second operation performance that requests the operation of the second operation means 12 can occur. On this premise, if the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "even number" (see FIG. 7(a)(b)), a first operation performance (see FIG. 7(c)) occurs, and if it is an "odd number" (see FIG. 7(d)(e)), a second operation performance (see FIG. 7(f)) occurs. In other words, the type of operation means 10 that is requested to be operated differs depending on the type of decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern.

In this case, it is preferable to set the jackpot reliability of the target winning/losing lottery result (the probability that the operation presentation will lead to a favorable result) differently depending on the type of operation means 10 that is requested to be operated. For example, the jackpot reliability is set to be higher when the operation of the second operation means 12 is requested (when the second operation presentation occurs) than when the operation of the first operation means 11 is requested (when the first operation presentation occurs) (see Figures 7 (c) and (f)). In this case, the gameplay is such that the player can expect a jackpot to be announced through the operation presentation more when the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "odd number" than when it is an "even number". From another perspective, the gameplay is realized in which the player strongly hopes for a successful ending when the "odd number" decorative pattern 80 is displayed in the introduction presentation than when the "even number" decorative pattern 80 is displayed.

Some decorative patterns 80 may be associated with the type of operation means 10 (type of operation presentation) for which an operation request is made, but other decorative patterns 80 may not be associated with the type of operation means 10 (type of operation presentation) for which an operation request is made. For example, if the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "even number," either the first operation presentation or the second operation presentation may occur (the type of operation means 10 for which an operation request is made is not determined), but if the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "odd number," the second operation presentation may occur (no operation request is made to the first operation means 11).

・Specific example 1-3-2
A certain relationship is assumed between the type of decorative pattern 80 (left decorative pattern 80L and right decorative pattern 80R) that becomes a reach pattern when a successful conclusion is reached and the state of the operation image 20 displayed in the operation presentation. For example, as a first operation presentation that may occur after the introduction presentation and that requires the operation of the first operation means 11, a first operation presentation A in which the first operation image 21 representing the first operation means 11 is displayed in white and a first operation presentation B in which the first operation image 21 "red" is displayed may occur. On this premise, if the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "even number" (see Fig. 8 (a) (b)), the first operation presentation A (see Fig. 8 (c)) occurs, and if it is an "odd number" (see Fig. 8 (d) (e)), the first operation presentation B (see Fig. 8 (f)) occurs. In other words, the state of the first operation image 21 representing the first operation means 11 that is requested to be operated differs depending on the type of decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern.

In this case, it is preferable to set the jackpot reliability of the target winning/losing lottery result (the probability that the operation presentation will lead to a favorable result) differently depending on the mode (type) of the operation image 20 displayed. For example, the jackpot reliability is set to be higher when the first operation image 21 "red" is displayed (when the first operation presentation B occurs) than when the first operation image 21 "white" is displayed (when the first operation presentation A occurs) (see Fig. 8 (c) (f)). In this case, the gameplay is such that the player can expect a jackpot to be announced through the operation presentation when the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "odd number" than when it is an "even number". From another perspective, the gameplay is realized in which the player strongly hopes for a successful ending when the "odd number" decorative pattern 80 is displayed in the introduction presentation than when the "even number" decorative pattern 80 is displayed.

Some decorative patterns 80 may be associated with the form of the operation image 20 to be displayed, but other decorative patterns 80 may not be associated with the form of the operation image 20 to be displayed. For example, if the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "even number", both the first operation image 21 "white" and the first operation image 21 "red" may be displayed (the form of the operation image 20 to be displayed is not determined), but if the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "odd number", an operation effect may occur in which the first operation image 21 "red" is displayed (the first operation image 21 "white" is not displayed).

・Specific example 1-3-3
A certain relationship is assumed between the type of the decorative pattern 80 (left decorative pattern 80L and right decorative pattern 80R) that becomes the reach pattern when a successful conclusion is reached and the required operation mode displayed in the operation performance. For example, as the operation performance that may occur after the introduction performance, a single operation performance that requires a single operation of the first operation means 11 and a continuous operation performance that requires a continuous operation of the first operation means 11 may occur. On this premise, if the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "even number" (see FIG. 9(a)(b)), a single operation performance occurs (see FIG. 9(c)), and if it is an "odd number" (see FIG. 9(d)(e)), a continuous operation performance occurs (see FIG. 9(f)). In other words, the operation mode of the first operation means 11 that is required by the player is different depending on the type of the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern.

In this case, it is preferable to set the jackpot reliability (the probability that the operation presentation will lead to a favorable result) of the target hit/miss lottery result differently depending on the mode (type) of the operation image 20 displayed. For example, the jackpot reliability is set to be higher when a continuous operation presentation occurs than when a single operation presentation occurs (see Fig. 9 (c) (f)). In this case, the gameplay is such that there is a higher expectation that a jackpot will be announced through the operation presentation when the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "odd number" than when it is an "even number". From another perspective, the gameplay is realized in which the player strongly hopes for a successful ending when an "odd number" decorative pattern 80 is displayed in the introductory presentation than when an "even number" decorative pattern 80 is displayed.

Some decorative patterns 80 may be associated with the operation mode required by the operation presentation, but other decorative patterns 80 may not be associated with the operation mode required by the operation presentation. For example, if the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "even number," either a single operation presentation or a continuous operation presentation may occur (the required operation mode is not determined), but if the number included in the decorative pattern 80 that becomes the reach pattern is an "odd number," a continuous operation presentation may occur (a single operation presentation may not occur).

Specific example 1-4
In the above embodiment, it has been explained that the result of the operation performance (advantageous result/unfavorable result) that occurs when the introduction performance is a successful conclusion indicates the result of the winning/losing lottery (it leads to a state according to the winning/losing lottery result), but when the operation performance leads to a favorable result, the winning/losing lottery result has a higher jackpot reliability than when the operation performance leads to an unfavorable result, and even if the result is favorable, it may not necessarily be a jackpot. For example, when the result is unfavorable, a miss is confirmed, and when the result is favorable, the winning/losing lottery result is determined by the outcome of the performance executed thereafter (if the operation performance is the first half of the reach performance, the winning/losing lottery result is determined by the second half of the reach performance). Even in this way, when the introduction performance is a successful conclusion and the operation performance is executed, the establishment of the reach is indicated, so it is possible to clearly indicate to the player that the operation performance is occurring as a reach performance.

Specific example 1-5
In the above embodiment, it has been explained that the type of decorative pattern 80 that can become a reach pattern is displayed while the introduction performance (teasing performance) is being executed (for example, in the example shown in FIG. 4, the decorative pattern 80 of "4" is displayed as a candidate for the reach pattern), but the type of decorative pattern 80 that can become a reach pattern may not be displayed (undistinguishable by the player) while the introduction performance is being executed. Specifically, the introduction performance indicates whether the first operation image 21 will be in a predetermined state, but does not indicate the type of decorative pattern 80 that can become a reach pattern, and the type of decorative pattern 80 that constitutes the reach becomes clear when the first operation image 21 becomes in a predetermined state (when a successful ending occurs).

When doing as in this example, it is advisable to configure the operation presentation so that the probability of a favorable result is high (i.e., the reliability of a big win is high) according to the type of decorative pattern 80 that constitutes the reach. For example, when a reach is established with the decorative pattern 80 of "7", the probability of the operation presentation being a favorable result is higher than when a reach is established with other types of decorative pattern 80. By doing so, a gameplay in which the player will pay attention to which type of decorative pattern 80 constitutes the reach when a successful ending is achieved is realized. In addition, if the type of decorative pattern 80 that can be a reach pattern is identified at the pre-performance stage, the probability of a successful ending being predicted (for example, if the decorative pattern 80 of "7", which has a high reliability of a big win when a successful ending is achieved, is shown as a candidate for the reach pattern in the pre-performance, it becomes impossible to expect a successful ending), but by doing as in this example, the effect of making such prediction impossible is also achieved.

3) Virtual performance The gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is capable of executing a virtual performance as a performance constituting the performance during change. In the following description of the virtual performance, the performance during change (one performance during change) including the virtual performance is sometimes referred to as the target performance during change, and the winning/losing lottery result corresponding to the target performance during change is sometimes referred to as the target winning/losing lottery result. The virtual performance is a performance in which a virtual gaming machine 30 representing a gaming machine (another model) different from the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is displayed as an image in the display area 911. The virtual performance is broadly divided into a post-event state in which a pre-event performance is executed, and a post-event state in which a post-event performance is executed. However, as will be described in detail later, it does not necessarily transition to the post-event state. In this embodiment, a virtual performance may occur (a pre-event performance may start) when a reach is established (see FIG. 10(a)) in which the left decorative pattern 80L selected and stopped from the left decorative pattern group 80gL and the right decorative pattern 80R selected and stopped from the right decorative pattern group 80gR are the same type.

After a reach is achieved, a pre-show is executed in which the virtual gaming machine 30 is displayed as an image in the display area 911. The virtual gaming machine 30 is displayed realistically in its entirety. In this embodiment, the virtual gaming machine 30 is displayed variably in the center of the width of the display area 911, displacing from top to bottom (see FIG. 10(b)). Since it is displayed variably between the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R, which are reach patterns in the width direction, the virtual gaming machine 30 looks as if it were a type of middle decorative pattern 80C (it is not actually a middle decorative pattern 80C).

The display indicates that the virtual gaming machine 30, which is displayed variably, is likely to stop at a position (predetermined position) between the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R, where the speed of change is reduced. In other words, a provocative effect is executed to suggest to the player that the virtual gaming machine 30 may stop at the predetermined position. If the virtual gaming machine 30 reaches a conclusion (stop conclusion) in which the virtual gaming machine 30 stops at the predetermined position (see FIG. 10(c-1)), the state transitions to the post-event state. On the other hand, if the virtual gaming machine 30 reaches a conclusion (non-stop conclusion) in which the virtual gaming machine 30 does not stop at the predetermined position (see FIG. 10(c-2)), the state transitions to the post-event state. In other words, the pre-event effect in this embodiment can be said to be a branching effect that determines whether or not the state transitions to the post-event state. In this embodiment, if the non-stop conclusion is reached, the virtual gaming machine 30 is displayed as if it has simply displaced downward (slid down) and moved outside the display area 911 and disappeared (see FIG. 10(c-2)). Then, a center decorative pattern 80C of a different type from the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R that make up the reach is displayed to inform the user that the winning/losing lottery result is a loss (see FIG. 10(d)). In other words, the pre-performance reaches a non-stop ending when the winning/losing lottery result is a loss.

If the pre-performance reaches a non-stop ending (see FIG. 10(c-1)), the game will transition to a post-performance state and the post-performance will be executed. In this embodiment, before the game transitions to the post-performance state, the following transition performance is executed. The image representing the virtual gaming machine 30 includes a virtual cabinet portion 31 representing the cabinet of the virtual gaming machine 30 and a virtual display portion 32 representing the display device (display area) of the virtual gaming machine 30. After the virtual gaming machine 30 stops at a predetermined position, the virtual display portion 32 is gradually enlarged (zoomed up (enlarged)) (see FIG. 11(a)(b)), and the virtual display portion 32 is displayed as if it had expanded to the entire display area 911 (of the gaming machine 1). In other words, as a result of the virtual display portion 32 of the virtual gaming machine 30 being enlarged, a transition performance is executed in which the virtual display portion 32 appears to match the display area 911 of the gaming machine 1 (actual gaming machine) according to this embodiment. Since the virtual display section 32 expands to cover the entire display area 911, the virtual housing section 31 is erased (made invisible). After the transition performance, the state transitions to the post-event state, and the post-event performance is executed.

In this embodiment, the virtual gaming machine 30 has been released to the market in the past. The post-event performance is a performance that the virtual gaming machine 30 (real machine) was able to execute. In other words, the performance that the virtual gaming machine 30 (real machine) released to the market in the past was able to execute is executed as a post-event performance (see FIG. 11 (c) (d-1) (d-2)) in the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment. Note that the post-event performance may be a performance that the gaming machine represented by the virtual gaming machine 30 was able to execute in the past, or may be a performance with some changes (remakes). It is sufficient that a player who has come into contact with the performance of the past gaming machine can understand that the performance is that of the gaming machine represented by the virtual gaming machine 30 that was released to the market in the past. In this embodiment, a type of reach performance that the virtual gaming machine 30 (real machine) was able to execute is executed as a post-event performance. Since it is a reach performance, the result of the lottery for the target hit or miss will be revealed. The post-event performance in this embodiment (the reach performance that the virtual gaming machine 30 (actual machine) was able to execute) is a so-called battle performance in which the ally character (indicated with the character "aji" in the drawings) who is the player's character fights against the enemy character (indicated with the character "enemy" in the drawings) (see FIG. 11(c)). If the result of the target winning/losing lottery is a big win, the result is a win in which the ally character wins (including a reversal pattern in which the ally character appears to have lost but this is overturned) (see FIG. 11(d-1)). If the result of the target winning/losing lottery is a loss, the result is a loss in which the ally character loses (the enemy character wins) (see FIG. 11(d-2)).

It is publicly known that the effects of gaming machines previously released on the market are executed. In this embodiment, the virtual gaming machine 30, which represents a gaming machine previously released on the market, stops at a predetermined position and then the post-effect is executed, so that it is possible to clearly show that the post-effect is the effect of the virtual gaming machine 30 (a gaming machine previously released on the market). In particular, in this embodiment, the virtual display section 32 of the virtual gaming machine 30 gradually changes to become larger, and the virtual cabinet section 31 is erased (transition effect), and then the post-effect is executed, so that it is easier to understand that the post-effect is the effect of the virtual gaming machine 30.

In addition, in this embodiment, a post-event performance is executed when a reach is achieved (the same type of left decorative pattern 80L and right decorative pattern 80R are displayed) and the virtual gaming machine 30 stops at a specified position, so it is possible to clearly show that the post-event performance is being executed as a reach effect.

The following describes specific examples of improvements, concrete changes, modifications, etc., made to the virtual performance-related aspects described above. Note that, to the extent possible, configurations may be made that apply a combination of multiple technologies described using the following specific examples.

〇Specific example 2-1
It is assumed that a plurality of types of virtual gaming machines 30 are prepared as the virtual gaming machines 30 that can be displayed in the pre-state (pre-performance). For example, a pre-performance in which a first virtual gaming machine 301 (see FIG. 12(a)) is displayed may be executed, and a pre-performance in which a second virtual gaming machine 302 (different from the first virtual gaming machine 301) (see FIG. 12(d)) is displayed may be executed. The type of post-performance executed when the pre-performance reaches a stop conclusion differs depending on the type of the virtual gaming machine 30 to be displayed. When the pre-performance in which the first virtual gaming machine 301 is displayed reaches a stop conclusion (see FIG. 12(a)), a first post-performance (see FIG. 12(c)) is executed through a transition performance (see FIG. 12(b)), and when the pre-performance in which the second virtual gaming machine 302 (see FIG. 12(d)) is displayed reaches a stop conclusion, a second post-performance different from the first post-performance is executed through a transition performance (see FIG. 12(e)) (see FIG. 12(f)). The first virtual gaming machine 301 and the second virtual gaming machine 302 each represent a different model that was previously released on the market. The first post-event performance is a performance that the gaming machine represented by the first virtual gaming machine 301 could perform, and the second post-event performance is a performance that the gaming machine represented by the second virtual gaming machine 302 could perform. Note that the first post-event performance is not a performance that the gaming machine represented by the second virtual gaming machine 302 could perform, and the second post-event performance is not a performance that the gaming machine represented by the first virtual gaming machine 301 could perform. By implementing this example, a gameplay that allows the player to experience the performances of multiple types of gaming machines that were previously released on the market is realized.

When doing as in this example, it is advisable to make the probability of the target winning/losing lottery result being a jackpot (jackpot reliability) different depending on the type of post-event performance that is executed. For example, by making the jackpot reliability higher when the second post-event performance is executed than when the first post-event performance is executed (see FIG. 12(c)(f)), a gameplay is realized in which the player is more likely to hope that the pre-event performance will reach a stop ending when the second virtual gaming machine 302 is displayed than when the first virtual gaming machine 301 is displayed in the pre-event performance.

Also, in the case of this example, two or more types of virtual gaming machines 30 may be displayed at the beginning of the pre-state (pre-performance), and one of the virtual gaming machines 30 may be displayed at a predetermined position when transitioning to the post-state (any of the multiple types of virtual gaming machines 30 may be selected) (see FIG. 13). In other words, it is also possible to have a performance format in which, at the beginning of the pre-state, it is not known which of the multiple types of virtual gaming machines 30 a post-performance that may occur in the future will correspond to.

〇Specific example 2-2
It is assumed that a certain type of gaming machine (a gaming machine X previously introduced on the market) is provided as the virtual gaming machine 30 that can be displayed in the pre-performance. Note that the virtual gaming machine 30 that can be displayed in the pre-performance may be only one type of the gaming machine X, or the gaming machine X may be one type of a plurality of types of gaming machines that can be displayed as described in the above specific example 2-1.

In the pre-performance, the virtual gaming machine 30 representing the gaming machine X is displayed and reaches a stop conclusion (see FIG. 14(a)), and then the state transitions to the post-performance through a transition performance (see FIG. 14(b)). In this case, the post-performance may be a post-performance A (see FIG. 14(c-1)), or a post-performance B (see FIG. 14(c-2)) different from the post-performance A. Both the post-performance A and the post-performance B are performances that the gaming machine X previously released on the market was capable of executing. In other words, two or more types of performances that the virtual gaming machine 30 (actual machine) was capable of executing are set as the post-performance, and one of the two or more types is executed when the state transitions to the post-performance. By doing as in this example, a gameplay that allows the player to experience two or more types of performances that the gaming machine X previously released on the market was capable of executing is realized.

In this example, the probability that the target winning/losing lottery result will be a jackpot (jackpot reliability) may differ depending on the type of post-event performance to be executed. For example, the jackpot reliability is higher when post-event performance B is executed than when post-event performance A is executed (see FIG. 14 (c-1) (c-2)). By doing so, when the virtual gaming machine 30 representing gaming machine X is displayed and the game transitions to the post-event state, the gameplay that the player desires is realized in which the post-event performance A is not executed and the post-event performance B is executed. Note that in this example, the type of post-event performance to be executed when the game transitions to the post-event state is not indicated at the pre-event performance or transition performance stage (stage of FIG. 14 (a) (b)). (Whether the post-event performance A or the post-event performance B is executed in the future, the pre-event performance in which gaming machine X is displayed as the virtual gaming machine 30 is executed.) In other words, unlike the above specific example 2-1, the type of post-event performance to be executed when the game transitions to the post-event state cannot be known while the pre-event performance is being executed.

Specific example 2-3
A representation of the gaming machine 1 (a gaming machine actually played by a player) may be displayed as the virtual gaming machine 30. For example, as described in the above embodiment, a virtual performance (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a normal virtual performance) may be generated in which a gaming machine previously released on the market (a past gaming machine) is displayed as the virtual gaming machine 30 (see FIG. 15(a)), and a virtual performance (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a special virtual performance) may be generated in which a representation of the gaming machine 1 (a current gaming machine) currently played by a player is displayed as the virtual gaming machine 30 (see FIG. 15(d)).

The special virtual effect is the gaming machine 1 that the player is currently playing, so the post-effect of the special virtual effect is an "original effect" (see FIG. 15(f)) that is not an effect of a past gaming machine. The post-effect of a normal virtual effect is an effect of a gaming machine that was previously released on the market, and is an effect that gives a sense of deja vu to players who have encountered it, whereas the post-effect of a special virtual effect is an original effect. In other words, whether the "old effect" (past effect) (see FIG. 15(c)) or the "new effect" (original effect) (see FIG. 15(f)) is executed as the post-effect is determined by whether the "past gaming machine" (see FIG. 15(a)) or the "new gaming machine" (currently being played gaming machine) (see FIG. 15(d)) is displayed as the virtual gaming machine 30, which realizes an interesting gameplay.

When doing as in this example, it is preferable to set the reliability of the jackpot of the target winning/losing lottery result to be different when a post-effect of a normal virtual effect occurs and when a post-effect of a special post-effect occurs. If the "new effect" is to be considered valuable, then the post-effect of the special virtual effect can be made more reliable, as shown in Figures 15(c) and (f). Conversely, if the post-effect of a normal virtual effect is made more reliable, then the "old effect" (past effect) will be more valuable.

Specific example 2-4
In the above embodiment, it has been explained that if the image representing the virtual gaming machine 30 stops at a predetermined position in the pre-state (pre-effect), the game transitions to the post-state, and if the image does not stop (if a non-stop effect occurs), the game does not transition to the post-state, but it is also possible to prevent the non-stop effect from occurring. In other words, it is also possible to set the game to transition to the post-state (post-effect) without fail when a pre-effect occurs.

Specific example 2-5
In the above embodiment, it has been described that the virtual performance (pre-performance) is executed when a reach is achieved, but the virtual performance may be executed regardless of whether or not a reach is achieved. However, if it is desired to clearly indicate (emphasize) that the virtual performance (post-performance) is occurring as a type of reach performance, it is preferable to adopt the configuration as in the above embodiment.

4) Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is in no way limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the present invention.

The matters described in the above embodiment can also be applied to other gaming machines, such as slot machines, except for the fact that they utilize a configuration unique to pachinko gaming machines.

In the above embodiment, the winning/losing lottery results are set as a jackpot and a losing lottery result, and a jackpot is acquired (a jackpot game is executed) when a jackpot is acquired, but a jackpot may also be acquired via a small prize. Since the gameplay that allows a jackpot to be acquired via a small prize (the gameplay of a so-called "two-type game machine") is well known, a detailed explanation is omitted. For example, if a small prize is won, it will lead to the acquisition of a jackpot (except in the case of an irregular event such as a malfunction of the game machine or the player not playing as instructed) (a setting in which the winning of a small prize and the winning of a jackpot can essentially be regarded as the same thing), and the winning of a jackpot as described in the above embodiment includes winning a small prize.

Specific means (gaming machines) obtained from the above embodiment are listed below.

・Method 1-1
A gaming machine in which three decorative pattern groups, each containing a plurality of types of decorative patterns, are displayed in a variable manner, and if a win/lose lottery results in a win, the three decorative patterns selected from each of the three decorative pattern groups will be of the same type, and a reach is established when the two decorative patterns selected and displayed from two of the plurality of decorative pattern groups are of the same type. The gaming machine is equipped with an operation means that can be operated by a player, an introduction performance in which a successful ending is set when an operation image representing the operation means takes a predetermined pattern, and a failed ending is set when the predetermined pattern does not take place, and an operation execution means that executes an operation performance that is executed when the introduction performance reaches a successful ending and that prompts the player to operate the operation means, and when the introduction performance reaches a successful ending, it is indicated that the operation image will take the predetermined pattern and the establishment of the reach is indicated.
According to the gaming machine, it is possible to clearly show the player that the operation effect is occurring as a reach effect.

・Method 1-2
The gaming machine described in means 1-1 is characterized in that if the introductory performance leads to the failed ending, the failure of the reach is displayed.
In this way, easy-to-understand gameplay is achieved in that, if a reach is not achieved, no operation effect (as a reach effect) occurs.

・Method 1-3
The gaming machine described in Means 1-1 or 1-2 is characterized in that the result of the lottery is displayed when an operation of the operating means that satisfies a predetermined condition is performed in the operation presentation.
In this way, an operation effect can occur as a so-called win/lose branch.

・Method 1-4
The winning change time required from when the three groups of decorative symbols start to change until the change stops and the result of the winning/losing lottery is notified that the winning/losing lottery is a winning one is set to one of a plurality of candidate times, and when the shortest one of the plurality of candidate times is set to the winning change time, the game machine described in means 1-3 is characterized in that the winning/losing lottery result is notified that the winning/losing lottery is a winning one after going through the introductory performance and the operational performance.
It is preferable that the above-mentioned introductory effect and operation effect be used to notify of a win when the win fluctuation time is short.

・Method 1-5
The gaming machine described in any one of means 1-1 to 1-4 is characterized in that the establishment of the reach is achieved when two of the three decorative pattern groups, a first decorative pattern selected and displayed from the first decorative pattern group and a second decorative pattern selected and displayed from the second decorative pattern group, are of the same type, and when the introductory performance leads to the successful conclusion, the operation image in the specified form is displayed between the first decorative pattern and the second decorative pattern, which indicate the establishment of the reach.
By doing this, when the operation image assumes a predetermined form to suggest the occurrence of an operation effect, it is emphasized that a reach has been achieved (reducing the risk that the player will miss the achievement of the reach).

・Method 2-1
A gaming machine comprising: a display device having a display area; and an effect execution means for executing a virtual effect in which, after a pre-state in which a virtual gaming machine representing another gaming machine is displayed in the display area, the machine transitions to a post-state in which a post-effect is executed, wherein in the pre-state, the virtual gaming machine is displayed as having a virtual display unit representing the display area of the virtual gaming machine and a virtual cabinet unit representing the cabinet of the virtual gaming machine, and as the virtual display unit displayed in the pre-state gradually changes to become larger, the virtual cabinet unit is erased, and the machine transitions to the post-state.
According to the gaming machine, it is possible to clearly show that a virtual gaming machine effect (post-effect) is occurring.

・Method 2-2
The gaming machine described in means 2-1 is characterized in that in the pre-state, any one of a plurality of types of virtual gaming machines is displayed, and the type of the post-performance executed in the post-state differs depending on the type of virtual gaming machine displayed in the pre-state.
In this way, a gaming experience is achieved in which the player will likely pay attention to what type of virtual gaming machine is displayed.

・Method 2-3
The gaming machine described in Means 2-1 or 2-2 is characterized in that even if the type of the virtual gaming machine displayed in the pre-state is the same, the type of the post-effect that can be executed in the post-state can be different.
In this way, a gaming experience is achieved in which it is not known what kind of post-performance corresponding to the displayed virtual gaming machine will be executed until the post-performance actually starts.

・Method 2-4
The gaming machine described in Means 2-1 to 2-3 is characterized in that the virtual gaming machine is variably displayed in the pre-state, and when the virtual gaming machine stops at a predetermined position, the state transitions to the post-state, whereas when the virtual gaming machine does not stop at the predetermined position, the state transitions to the post-state.
In this way, whether or not the virtual gaming machine stops at a predetermined position determines whether or not the game progresses to the post-event state.

・Method 2-5
The gaming machine described in means 2-4 is characterized in that three groups of decorative patterns, each of which includes a plurality of types of decorative patterns, are displayed in a variable manner, and if the result of the lottery is a win, the three decorative patterns selected from each of the three groups of decorative patterns will be of the same type, and a reach is established when the two decorative patterns selected and displayed from two of the plurality of groups of decorative patterns, that is, a first decorative pattern and a second decorative pattern, are of the same type, and the pre-state can occur after the reach is established, and when the virtual gaming machine stops at the specified position between the first decorative pattern and the second decorative pattern, which indicates the establishment of the reach, the machine transitions to the post-state.
In this way, it is possible to clearly show that the virtual effect is occurring as a reach effect.

1 gaming machine 10 operation means (11 first operation means 12 second operation means)
20 Operation image (21 First operation image 22 Second operation image)
25 meter image 26 operation mode image 29 guide image 30 virtual gaming machine 31 virtual cabinet 32 virtual display 70 reserved symbols (71 changing reserved symbols 72 pre-changing reserved symbols)
80 Decorative pattern (80L Left decorative pattern 80R Right decorative pattern 80C Center decorative pattern group)
91 Display device 911 Display area

Claims (1)

A gaming machine in which three decorative pattern groups, each including a plurality of kinds of decorative patterns, are displayed in a variable manner, and when a winning/losing lottery result is a winning result, three decorative patterns selected from each of the three decorative pattern groups are of the same type, and when two decorative patterns selected and displayed from two of the plurality of decorative pattern groups are of the same type, a winning result is determined to be achieved,
An operation means operable by a player;
an introduction performance in which the operation image representing the operation means becomes a predetermined mode as a successful ending and the operation image not becoming the predetermined mode as a failed ending; and a performance execution means for executing a performance that is executed when the introduction performance reaches a successful ending and that prompts a player to operate the operation means;
Equipped with
When the introduction performance reaches a successful conclusion, the operation image is shown to be in the predetermined mode and the establishment of the reach is shown,
A gaming machine characterized in that, when the introductory performance leads to the failed ending, a failure of the reach is displayed.

Images