JP7541772B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines such as pachinko machines.

As an example of a pachinko gaming machine, as described in the following Patent Document 1, a gaming machine has been known in the past that, in one variable performance, a preview performance in which one of multiple characters speaks a line is performed, and then develops into a character reach performance in which one of multiple characters appears.

JP 2020-014923 A

However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, one of the multiple characters speaks a line as a preview performance, and then one of the multiple characters appears as a character reach, so there is no sense of a relationship between the performances. Therefore, there is still room for improvement in order to increase the interest of the performances.

The gaming machine of the present invention is
A game control means for controlling the progress of a game;
A performance control means capable of executing a performance based on a command from the game control means,
The game control means is capable of performing a pattern change that displays a predetermined pattern in a variable manner based on the result of the winning/losing determination, and then stops and displays the pattern in a manner that indicates the result of the winning/losing determination,
The performance control means includes:
A suggestion effect is performed in which a predetermined character is displayed based on a result of a pre-reading determination performed before the hit/miss determination.
After performing a predetermined introduction performance in accordance with the pattern variation, a normal development performance or a special development performance having a higher winning expectation rate than the normal development performance is performed.
In the introduction performance, it is possible to perform a first performance in which the character displayed in the suggestion performance is displayed in a first display mode, or a second performance in which the character displayed in the suggestion performance is displayed in a second display mode;
A gaming machine in which the special development performance is more likely to be executed after the introduction performance is executed when the second performance is executed than when the first performance is executed,
The performance control means includes:
Based on receiving a specific command indicating that the variable ball entry device is to be controlled to a state where it is easy to score a ball, a predetermined effect can be executed to suggest that the variable ball entry device is to be in a state where it is easy to score a ball by displaying an image different from the hold icon ,
This gaming machine is characterized in that when a pattern change that triggers control to a state in which the unfolding performance is being executed is on hold or when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the pattern change began, the specified performance is not executed even if the specific command is received.

The gaming machine of the present invention can increase the excitement of the game through its presentation.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a basic type of pachinko gaming machine. FIG. A front view showing the second large prize device and other details. FIG. (A) is a front view of the performance unit when the above-board movable device and the below-board movable device are in standby state, and (B) is a front view of the performance unit when the above-board movable device and the below-board movable device are in operation. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the main control board. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the sub-control board. 2 is an oblique view showing the back side of the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a front view showing a seven-segment display. (A) is a table showing random numbers related to the general map, and (B) is a table showing random numbers related to the special map. (A) is an example of a hit determination table, (B) is an example of a normal game fluctuation pattern determination table, and (C) is an example of an auxiliary game control table. (A) is an example of a jackpot determination table, (B) is an example of a jackpot pattern type determination table, and (C) is an example of a reach determination table. This is an example of a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table. This is an example of a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table. 13 is an example of a look-ahead determination table. 13 is an example of a jackpot game control table. FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing specific examples of presentation modes. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of normal fluctuations in the special chart fluctuation performance. This is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of N reach in the special chart change performance. This is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an SP reach in a special chart change performance. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a hold effect. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a movable object performance. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an operation presentation. 13 is a flowchart of a main control process. 13 is a flowchart of a main-side timer interrupt process. 13 is a flowchart of a sub-control main process. 13 is a flowchart of a 1 ms timer interrupt process. 13 is a flowchart of a 10 ms timer interrupt process. 1 is a jackpot symbol type determination table for the pachinko gaming machine of the first embodiment. This is a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table in a high probability high base game state. FIG. 13A is a table for explaining the effect symbols in the first probability variation effect mode. FIG. 13B is a table for explaining the effect symbols in the second probability variation effect mode. A figure showing a specific example of a performance pattern in the first special probability performance mode. A figure showing a specific example of a performance pattern in the second special probability performance mode. (A) A reach symbol determination table in a first probability variation presentation mode. (B) A reach symbol determination table in a second probability variation presentation mode. This is a special chart 2 pre-reading judgment table in a high probability high base game state. This is a lottery table for a chance zone presentation in a high-probability, high-base gaming state. This is a diagram showing a specific example of a variable presentation in a high probability, high base gaming state, and shows the process up to when a reach is formed. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a battle reach in which an ally character performs a preemptive attack. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a battle reach in which a normal enemy character performs an attack. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a battle reach in which an ally character performs a counter attack against an attack by a normal enemy character. 13A and 13B are diagrams showing specific examples of battle reaches in which a formidable enemy character makes an attack. 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a specific example of a battle reach in which an ally character performs a counter attack against an attack by a formidable enemy character. A figure showing a specific example of a chance zone presentation. This figure shows a specific example of a chance zone presentation, and is a continuation of Figure 44. This is a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table in a low probability low base game state for a pachinko game machine of the second embodiment. This is a variable presentation pattern determination table for special chart 1 in a low probability, low base gaming state. This is a lottery table for executing a reach-established challenge performance. A figure showing a specific example of a reach-achievement challenge presentation. This figure shows a specific example of a reach-achievement challenge presentation, and is a continuation of Figure 49. A figure showing a specific example of a development effect that is performed when a reach is formed in a variable effect and develops into a battle effect. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a battle presentation in which an untransformed main character battles enemy character A. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a battle presentation in which a battle takes place between an untransformed main character and enemy character B. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a battle presentation in which a transformed main character battles an enemy character X. 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a specific example of a battle presentation in which a transformed main character and an enemy character Y battle each other. A front view of a game board unit for a pachinko game machine of a third embodiment. Various tables relating to normal symbols in the pachinko game machine of the third embodiment, (A) being a win determination table, (B) being an auxiliary game control table, (C) being a normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table, and (D) being a normal symbol pre-reading determination table. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a roulette presentation based on a normal symbol lottery. This is a table for determining the fluctuation pattern of special chart 1 in a low-probability, non-time-saving state. This is a special chart 1 pre-reading judgment table in a low-probability, non-time-saving state. This is a lottery table for determining whether or not a character gathering performance will be performed based on a foresight determination. This is a gathering character number determination table for determining the number of characters to be gathered in a character gathering performance. This is a lottery table for executing a roulette effect based on a special symbol lottery. 13A to 13C are diagrams showing specific examples of roulette presentations based on special symbol lottery. This is a table to explain the prohibitions on roulette presentation in a low-probability, non-time-saving state. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a character gathering effect. This figure shows a specific example of a character preview performance using characters gathered in a character gathering performance, and a performance at the introductory part of an SP reach. A figure showing a specific example of the third SP reach (ballet dance reach). A figure showing a specific example of the second SP reach (cooperative valley reach). A figure showing a specific example of the first SP reach (one-person valley reach).

Below, an embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. In each of the drawings, the same parts or components that perform the same role are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted as a general rule. In this specification, for the sake of simplicity, a symbol or code referring to information, signal, physical quantity, member, etc. may be written, and the name of the information, signal, physical quantity, member, etc. corresponding to the symbol or code may be omitted or abbreviated. In addition, in any of the flowcharts described below, the execution order of multiple processes in any of the steps can be arbitrarily changed or executed in parallel, as long as no inconsistency occurs in the process content.

In this specification, the gaming machine will first be described in terms of the conventional general configuration as a pachinko gaming machine PY1 of a basic form, and then the characteristic configuration (characteristic parts) will be described as a pachinko gaming machine of the nth embodiment (n is an integer of 1 or more), focusing on the changes from the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the basic form. For this reason, the configuration described before "7. Pachinko gaming machine of the first embodiment" may also be described in "7. Pachinko gaming machine of the first embodiment" and subsequent sections, but in this case, the pachinko gaming machine of each embodiment will be considered to be configured as described in "7. Pachinko gaming machine of the first embodiment" and subsequent sections.

1. Structure of the gaming machine First, the structure of the basic form of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be explained using Figures 1 to 5. In the following explanation, the left, right, up and down directions of each part of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 refer to the left, right, up and down directions (as viewed from the front) of a player facing the pachinko gaming machine PY1. Also, "forward" refers to the direction approaching the player facing the pachinko gaming machine PY1 from the pachinko gaming machine PY1, and "rearward" refers to the direction approaching the pachinko gaming machine PY1 from the player facing the pachinko gaming machine PY1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko game machine PY1 has a game machine frame 2. The game machine frame 2 has a game board mounting frame 2A to which a game board unit YU (described later) is attached, and a front frame 23m that is rotatably supported on the game board mounting frame 2A via a hinge 2B. The front frame 23m can be opened and closed relative to the game board mounting frame 2A. A transparent plate 23t is attached to the front frame 23m. When the front frame 23m is closed, the game board 1 attached to the game board mounting frame 2A and the transparent plate 23t face each other. Therefore, when the pachinko game machine PY1 is installed in a game arcade, a player in front of the pachinko game machine PY1 can see the game area 6 formed on the game board 1 through the transparent plate 23t. The transparent plate 23t can be a transparent glass plate, a transparent synthetic resin plate, or the like. The transparent plate 23t only needs to allow the game area 6 to be visible from the front of the pachinko game machine PY1.

At the lower right of the front of the front frame 23m, a handle 72k is provided that can be rotated to launch the game balls. The amount by which the handle 72k is operated (rotation angle) corresponds to the magnitude (launch strength) of the force (the amount by which the launching device 72 described below drives the launch solenoid) applied to the game balls to launch them. Thus, the game balls are launched with a launch strength that corresponds to the rotation of the handle 72k. At the lower center of the front of the front frame 23m, a lower decorative body 36 that protrudes significantly forward is provided. An upper tray 34 is formed on the top surface of the lower decorative body 36 for storing the game balls supplied to the handle 72k. At the lower center of the front of the lower decorative body 36, a lower tray 35 is provided for storing surplus game balls that cannot be accommodated in the upper tray 34.

A first input device (hereinafter, "normal button") 40 that can be pressed downward is provided on the front side of the upper tray 34 on the upper surface of the lower decorative body 36. In addition, a second input device (hereinafter, "special button") 41 that can be pressed downward is provided on the right decorative body 32 that is formed by protruding forward from the right edge of the surface of the front frame 23m. The normal button 40 is configured to be vibrated. That is, the normal button 40 has a built-in vibration mechanism for vibrating the normal button 40, and when a vibration motor included in this vibration mechanism is driven, the normal button 40 vibrates so that it can be visually recognized by the player. Note that a known configuration can be appropriately adopted for the vibration mechanism for vibrating the normal button 40. The normal button 40 is an example of an operation unit and an example of a vibrating body.

A speaker 52 capable of outputting sound is provided on the bottom surface of the upper decorative body 31, which is formed by protruding forward from the top of the surface of the front frame 23m. The speaker 52 consists of a left speaker 52L located on the left side and a right speaker 52R located on the right side. Furthermore, frame lamps 53 capable of emitting light are provided on the right edge of the front frame 23m and on the left and right sides of the lower plate 35 on the front of the lower decorative body 36. Furthermore, a movable frame movable device 58 is attached to the upper side of the left and right edges of the front frame 23m as a performance device aimed at increasing interest in the game. The frame movable device 58 consists of a left frame movable device 58L located on the left side and a right frame movable device 58R located on the right side.

The positions and number of components and devices installed in the gaming machine frame 2 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

Next, the game board unit YU will be described mainly with reference to Figures 2 to 5. The game board unit YU has a game board 1 and a presentation unit 1U attached to the back side of the game board 1. First, the game board 1 will be described. The game board 1 is made of a transparent synthetic resin plate. An opening 1A that is roughly circular when viewed from the front is formed in roughly the center of the game board 1. A roughly ring-shaped inner wall portion 1B is formed to protrude forward along the opening 1A for partitioning a game area 6 into which game balls can flow. In addition, a roughly ring-shaped outer wall portion 1C is formed to protrude forward on the outside of the inner wall portion 1B for partitioning the game area 6.

A play area 6 surrounded by an inner wall portion 1B, an outer wall portion 1C, etc. is formed on the front side of the play board 1. In other words, the front side of the play board 1 is divided by the inner wall portion 1B and the outer wall portion 1C into the play area 6 and the rest of the area.

The play area 6 is an area where game balls released by operating the handle 72k can flow down, and is provided for playing on the pachinko game machine PY1. Note that a large number of game nails (not shown) are protruding from the play area 6. The game nails form a path that appropriately guides game balls that enter the play area 6 and flow down the play area 6 to the first start gate 11, the second start gate 12, the general winning gate 10, the gate 13, the first large winning gate 14, and the second large winning gate 15, which will be described later. Note that the start gates such as the first start gate 11 and the second start gate 12 are referred to as ball entry gates, the large winning gates such as the first large winning gate 14 and the second large winning gate 15 are referred to as special winning gates or specific winning gates, and the gates can be referred to as pass gates or pass areas.

A center frame (center ornament) 61 that decorates the periphery of the opening 1A is provided near the center of the game area 6. The center frame 61 is provided with a stage that can guide the game ball to the first starting hole 11 (described below), and a warp that can guide the game ball to the stage.

In addition, the game area 6 is provided with a first start winning device 11D having a first start hole 11 through which the game ball can enter, and a second start winning device (a so-called "electric chute") 12D that allows or prevents the ball from entering the second start hole 12.

The first start winning device 11D is stationary. Therefore, the ease with which the game ball can enter the first start hole 11 remains constant (unchanging). The entry of a game ball into the first start hole 11 triggers the drawing of a lottery for a first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as "Special Symbol 1") (obtaining and determining a random number related to Special Symbol 1, described below; hereinafter also referred to as "Special Symbol 1 drawing") and the variable display of Special Symbol 1. In addition, when a game ball enters the first start hole 11, a predetermined number of game balls (four in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls.

The electric chute 12D is equipped with an operable electric chute opening/closing member 12k. The electric chute opening/closing member 12k is usually (in a normal state) in a closed position that prevents the game ball from entering the second starting hole 12. Then, when a special state is entered, it moves to an open position that allows the game ball to enter the second starting hole 12. In this way, the movement of the electric chute opening/closing member 12k to the open position is also called the "open state" of the second starting hole 12 or the electric chute 12D, and the game ball can enter the second starting hole 12 only when it is in the open state. On the other hand, the electric chute opening/closing member 12k in the closed position is also called the "closed state" of the second starting hole 12 or the electric chute 12D. In addition, the second starting hole 12 or the electric chute 12D being in the "open state" is also called "the electric chute 12D is open," and the electric chute 12D being in the "closed state" is also called "the electric chute 12D is closed."

The entry of a game ball into the second starting hole 12 triggers the drawing of a lottery for a second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as "Special Symbol 2") (obtaining and determining a Special Symbol 2 related random number described below: hereinafter also referred to as "Special Symbol 2 drawing") and the variable display of Special Symbol 2. In addition, when a game ball enters the second starting hole 12, a predetermined number of game balls (four in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls. In addition, a guide stage 12g that guides the game ball to the second starting hole 12 is provided in the game area 6.

The game area 6 is also provided with a general winning opening (normal winning opening) 10 through which game balls can enter. When a game ball enters the general winning opening 10, a predetermined number of game balls (three in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls.

The game area 6 is also provided with a gate 13 through which the game ball can pass. The passage of the game ball through the gate 13 triggers the drawing of a regular symbol (hereinafter referred to as a "regular symbol") (i.e., obtaining and determining a regular symbol random number: hereinafter referred to as a "regular symbol drawing") and the variable display of the regular symbol. The electric chute 12D is opened by the execution of the auxiliary game. In other words, the auxiliary game is a game that involves the opening of the electric chute 12D.

In addition, the game area 6 is provided with a first large prize winning device 14D (hereinafter also referred to as "normal AT 14D") in which a first large prize winning opening 14 through which a game ball can enter is formed. The first large prize winning device 14D is equipped with a normal AT opening/closing member 14k that can be operated in an open state and a closed state. The first large prize winning opening 14 is opened and closed by the operation of the normal AT opening/closing member 14k. The normal AT opening/closing member 14k is normally in a closed state that blocks the first large prize winning opening 14, and it is impossible for a game ball to enter the first large prize winning opening 14. When the normal AT opening/closing member 14k is operated to the open state, it becomes possible for a game ball to enter the first large prize winning opening 14. In this way, a game ball can enter the first large prize winning opening 14 only when the normal AT opening/closing member 14k is in the open state. When a game ball enters the first large prize opening 14, a predetermined number of game balls (15 in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls.

The game area 6 is also provided with a second large prize winning device 15D (hereinafter also referred to as "VAT 15D") in which a second large prize winning opening 15 through which a game ball can enter is formed. The second large prize winning device 15D is provided with an operable VAT opening/closing member 15k. The VAT opening/closing member 15k normally blocks the second large prize winning opening 15. The VAT opening/closing member 15k can be in an open state. A game ball can enter the second large prize winning opening 15 only when the VAT opening/closing member 15k is in an open state. On the other hand, the state in which the VAT opening/closing member 15k blocks the second large prize winning opening 15 is also referred to as a "closed state." In this way, the second large prize winning opening 15 is opened and closed by the operation of the VAT opening/closing member 15k. When a game ball enters the second large prize winning opening 15, a predetermined number of game balls (15 in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls.

The second large prize winning device 15D will now be described in detail with reference to FIG. 3. Inside the second large prize winning device 15D, a gate-shaped second large prize winning port sensor 15a is provided that can detect a game ball that has entered the second large prize winning port 15 and allow the game ball to pass downward.

In the downstream area of the second large prize opening sensor 15a, there are a specific area 16 and a non-specific area 17 through which game balls can pass (enter). Game balls that pass through the second large prize opening sensor 15a are sorted by a sorting device 16D into the specific area 16 or the non-specific area 17. The sorting device 16D is equipped with a sorting member 16k made of a substantially rectangular flat plate, and a sorting solenoid 16s that drives the sorting member 16k. The sorting member 16k is configured to be slidable left and right by the drive of the sorting solenoid 16s.

When the distribution solenoid 16s is not energized, the distribution member 16k is in a first state (passage prevention state: in a front view of FIG. 3(A), the left end of the distribution member 16k is located slightly to the right of the left end of the specific area 16, and the distribution member 16k covers the specific area 16 directly above) that prevents the game ball from passing through to the specific area 16. When the distribution member 16k is in the first state, after a game ball enters the second large prize opening 15 passes through the second large prize opening sensor 15a, it cannot pass through the specific area 16, and passes through the non-specific area 17. The route of the game ball flowing down from the second large prize opening 15 to the non-specific area 17 is called the first route.

On the other hand, when the distribution solenoid 16s is energized, the distribution member 16k is in a second state that allows the game ball to pass (enter) the specific area 16 (passage-allowing state: when viewed from the front in FIG. 3(B), the left end of the distribution member 16k is located slightly to the left of the right end of the specific area 16, the distribution member 16k does not cover the specific area 16 directly above, and the area directly above the specific area 16 is open). When the distribution member 16k is in the second state, a game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 15 can easily pass through the specific area 16 after passing through the second large prize opening sensor 15a. The route of the game ball that flows down from the second large prize opening 15 to the specific area 16 is called the second route.

In principle, the distribution member 16k is held in the first state. In other words, the first state can be said to be the normal state of the distribution member 16k. Then, only during a specified round of play (e.g., 16R), the distribution solenoid 16s is energized and the state can change to the second state. The operating mode of the distribution member 16k can be changed as appropriate.

Specific area 16 and non-specific area 17 are provided with specific area sensors 16a and non-specific area sensors 17a that detect game balls that pass through (enter) each area 16, 17 and allow the game balls to pass downward.

It is possible to provide only one of the first large prize winning device 14D and the second large prize winning device 15D, as long as it does not interfere with the game. Also, depending on the gameplay, it is possible to provide two large prize winning devices, such as the first large prize winning device 14D, that do not have a specific area or a distribution device. Also, although the first large prize winning device 14D and the second large prize winning device 15D are provided, it is possible to use only the first large prize winning device 14D or only the second large prize winning device 15D, depending on the gameplay. Note that if only the first large prize winning device 14D is used, processing related to the second large prize winning device 15D is not performed, and if only the second large prize winning device 15D is used, processing related to the first large prize winning device 14D is not performed.

As shown in FIG. 2, two outlets 19 are provided at the bottom of the game area 6 to discharge game balls that have been shot into the game area 6 but have not won in any of the winning holes to the outside of the game area 6. The game board 1 is also provided with an illuminating board lamp 54.

The game area 6 through which the game balls can flow can be divided into a left game area 6A (first game area) on the left side of the center in the left-right direction, and a right game area 6B (second game area) on the right side. The operation mode of the handle 72k that launches the game ball so that it flows down the left game area 6A is called "left hit". On the other hand, the operation mode of the handle 72k that launches the game ball so that it flows down the right game area 6B is called "right hit". In the pachinko game machine PY1, the flow path through which the game ball can flow when launched by left hit is called the first flow path R1, and the flow path through which the game ball can flow when launched by right hit is called the second flow path R2. The first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 are also composed of a large number of game nails, etc.

On the first flow path R1, there is a first start port 11 and two general winning ports 10. Therefore, a player can aim to win at the first start port 11 or the general winning port 10 by hitting the game ball from the left so that it flows down the first flow path R1. On the other hand, on the second flow path R2, there are a second start port 12, a general winning port 10, a gate 13, a first large winning port 14, and a second large winning port 15. Therefore, a player can aim to pass through the gate 13 or win at the second start port 12, the general winning port 10, the first large winning port 14, or the second large winning port 15 by hitting the game ball from the right so that it flows down the second flow path R2.

In addition, game balls that do not enter any of the winning holes (first starting hole 11, second starting hole 12, general winning hole 10, first large winning hole 14, and second large winning hole 15) are guided to the outlet hole 19 and discharged. In addition, the number of winning balls that enter each winning hole can be set appropriately.

In addition, displays 8 are arranged to the lower left of the play area 6 formed on the front of the game board 1 (part other than the play area 6). As shown in FIG. 4, the displays 8 include a special chart 1 display 81a that variably displays special chart 1, a special chart 2 display 81b that variably displays special chart 2, and a general chart display 82 that variably displays general charts. The displays 8 also include a special chart 1 reserved display 83a that displays the special chart 1 reserved number (U1: the number of reserved variable displays of special chart 1 by the special chart 1 display 81a) described below, and a special chart 2 reserved display 83b that displays the special chart 2 reserved number (U2: the number of reserved variable displays of special chart 2 by the special chart 2 display 81b) described below.

The variable display of special chart 1 is executed when a special chart 1 lottery is held in response to a game ball entering the first starting hole 11. The variable display of special chart 2 is executed when a special chart 2 lottery is held in response to a game ball entering the second starting hole 12. In the following explanation, special chart 1 and special chart 2 are collectively referred to as special charts or special patterns, and special chart 1 lottery and special chart 2 lottery are collectively referred to as special chart lottery. Furthermore, special chart 1 display 81a and special chart 2 display 81b are collectively referred to as special chart display 81. Furthermore, special chart 1 reserve display 83a and special chart 2 reserve display 83b are collectively referred to as special chart reserve display 83.

The variable display of the special chart notifies the result of the special chart lottery. In the variable display of the special chart, the special chart is displayed variably and then displayed still. The special chart that is displayed still (the stopped special chart, the special pattern that is derived and displayed as the display result of the variable display) is one special chart selected from multiple types of special charts by the special chart lottery. If the stopped special chart is a specific special chart (a special chart with a specific stopping mode, i.e., a jackpot pattern), a jackpot game (an example of a special game) is played in which the jackpot openings (first jackpot opening 14 and second jackpot opening 15) are opened. The game state in which the jackpot game is being played is called the jackpot game state. The jackpot game state is an example of a special game state that is advantageous to the player.

The special chart display 81 is composed of, for example, eight LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) arranged side by side, and displays a special chart according to the result of the special chart lottery according to the lighting state of the LEDs. For example, if the result of the special chart lottery is a jackpot (one of the multiple types of jackpots described below), the special chart display 81 displays a jackpot pattern consisting of the lighting of the first, second, fifth, and sixth LEDs from the left, such as "□□■■□□■■" (□: lit, ■: unlit). Also, if the result of the special chart lottery is a loss, the special chart display 81 displays a loss pattern consisting of only the lighting of the rightmost LED, such as "■■■■■■■□". Note that the lighting state of the LEDs corresponding to the result of the special chart lottery is not limited and can be set appropriately. Therefore, for example, all LEDs may be turned off to represent a loss pattern.

In addition, in the variable display of the special chart, the special chart is displayed for a predetermined variable time before the special chart is displayed in a stopped state. The mode of variable display of the special chart is, for example, a mode in which each LED lights up so that light flows repeatedly from left to right. Note that the mode of variable display of the special chart is not particularly limited, and if each LED is not displayed in a stopped state (illuminated display in a specific mode), it may be set appropriately, such as all LEDs flashing at once.

In the pachinko game machine PY1, when a game ball enters the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12, various random numbers (one example of judgment information) for performing a special drawing lottery, etc., may be obtained. These various random numbers are temporarily stored as special drawing reservations in the special drawing reservation memory unit 105 described below. In the following, the various random numbers obtained by the game ball entering the first start hole 11 are referred to as "special drawing 1 related random numbers," and the various random numbers obtained by the game ball entering the second start hole 12 are referred to as "special drawing 2 related random numbers." Here, the special drawing 1 related random numbers are stored as special drawing 1 reservations in the special drawing 1 reservation memory unit 105a in the special drawing reservation memory unit 105. On the other hand, the special drawing 2 related random numbers are stored as special drawing 2 reservations in the special drawing 2 reservation memory unit 105b in the special drawing reservation memory unit 105. An upper limit (four in this embodiment) is set for the number of reserved special drawings 1 (reserved special drawing number) that can be stored in the reserved special drawing 1 storage unit 105a and the number of reserved special drawings 2 (reserved special drawing number) that can be stored in the reserved special drawing 2 storage unit 105b. The upper limit for the reserved special drawing number and the reserved special drawing number can be changed as appropriate, and the upper limit may be "none." In the following, reserved special drawings 1 and reserved special drawings 2 are collectively referred to as "reserved special drawings," and the reserved special drawing number and reserved special drawing number are collectively referred to as "reserved special drawing number." In addition, the random numbers related to the random drawing 1 and the random numbers related to the random drawing 2 are collectively referred to as "random numbers related to the random drawing."

In the pachinko game machine PY1, if the variable display of the special chart is not performed immediately after the game ball enters the first start port 11 or the second start port 12, specifically, if a prize is won while the variable display of the special chart is being performed or while a jackpot game is being played, the variable display of the special chart for that prize (or the right to draw a special chart) can be reserved. The reserved special chart stored in the reserved special chart memory unit 105 is consumed when the variable display of the special chart based on that reserved special chart becomes possible. In other words, consuming the reserved special chart means determining the special chart-related random number, etc., that corresponds to that reserved special chart, and executing the variable display of the special chart to show the result of that determination.

The number of reserved special drawings is then displayed on the reserved special drawing display 83. Each of the reserved special drawing 1 display 83a and the reserved special drawing 2 display 83b is composed of, for example, four LEDs, and the number of reserved special drawings can be displayed by lighting up the LEDs in accordance with the number of reserved special drawings.

The variable display of the regular map also notifies the result of the regular map lottery. In the variable display of the regular map, the regular map is displayed variably and then stopped. The regular map that is stopped (stop regular map, regular map derived and displayed as a display result of the variable display) is one regular map selected from multiple types of regular maps by the regular map lottery. If the regular map that is stopped is a specific regular map that has been determined in advance (a regular map with a predetermined stopping pattern, i.e. a winning pattern), an auxiliary game is played in which the second starting hole 12 (electric chute 12D) is opened.

The regular map display 82 is composed of, for example, two LEDs, and displays a regular map according to the result of the regular map lottery depending on the lighting state of the LEDs. If the result of the regular map lottery is a win, the regular map display 82 displays a winning pattern consisting of both LEDs lit, such as "□□" (□: lit, ■: off). If the result of the regular map lottery is a loss, a losing pattern consisting of only the right LED lit, such as "■□". A mode in which all LEDs are off may also be adopted to represent a losing pattern. Note that the lighting state of the LEDs corresponding to the result of the regular map lottery is not limited and can be set as appropriate.

In addition, before the normal map is displayed as stopped, the normal map is displayed as a variable display for a predetermined variable time. The variable display mode of the normal map is, for example, a mode in which both LEDs are alternately lit. Note that the variable display mode of the normal map is not particularly limited, and if the LEDs are not displayed as stopped (lit in a specific mode), it may be set appropriately, such as all LEDs flashing at the same time.

In the pachinko game machine PY1, when the game ball passes through the gate 13, a normal pattern random number (an example of judgment information) for performing a normal pattern lottery may be obtained. This random number is stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106 described below, provided that the variable display of the normal pattern or the auxiliary game is not being executed. The number of normal patterns reserved (normal pattern reserve number) that can be stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106 is set to an upper limit (four in this embodiment). The upper limit of the number of normal patterns reserved can be changed as appropriate, and the upper limit may be set to "none". In the following, the normal pattern random number obtained by the game ball passing through the gate 13 is also referred to as a "normal pattern related random number". In addition, in this embodiment, a normal pattern reserve display that displays the normal pattern reserve number is not provided, but a normal pattern reserve display may be added to the display unit 8. As the normal pattern reserve display, for example, one with a configuration similar to that of the special pattern reserve display 83 can be adopted.

Next, using Figure 5, we will explain the presentation unit 1U attached to the back of the game board 1. The presentation unit 1U is a unit made up of multiple devices that mainly perform presentations. The presentation unit 1U is equipped with an image display device 50, a first board movable device (hereinafter "above-board movable device") 55, and a second board movable device (hereinafter "below-board movable device") 56.

The image display device 50 is composed of a 3D liquid crystal display of a predetermined screen size, and is equipped with a display unit (display screen) 50a capable of displaying 3D images. Note that the image display device 50 may be another display device, such as one composed of multiple liquid crystal displays or one composed of an EL (Electro Luminescence) display, as long as it is capable of displaying images.

The above-board movable device 55 is configured to be movable along the display unit 50a and includes a decorated above-board movable body 55k. The below-board movable device 56 is configured to be movable along the display unit 50a and includes a decorated below-board movable body 56k.

Figure 5 (A) shows a schematic diagram of the above-board movable body 55k and the below-board movable body 56k being held in a normal standby state (initial position) when not in operation. When the drive source of the above-board movable device 55 is driven, the above-board movable body 55k moves downward (descends), and when the drive source of the below-board movable device 56 is driven, the below-board movable body 56k moves upward (rises). At this time, the image display device 50 is covered by the lowered above-board movable body 55k or the raised below-board movable body 56k, making the image display device 50 difficult to see.

The positions and number of components and devices installed on the game board unit YU can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

2. Electrical configuration of the gaming machine Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described based on Figures 6 to 7. As shown in Figures 6 to 7, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is equipped with a game control board (hereinafter referred to as the "main control board") 100 that controls game profits such as special drawing, variable display of special drawing, big win game, setting of game state to be described later, regular drawing, variable display of regular drawing, and auxiliary game (progress of game), a performance control board (hereinafter referred to as the "sub control board") 120 that controls game performances (special drawing variable performances, reserved performances, operation performances, big win game performances, etc.) according to the progress of the game by the main control board 100 and performances such as customer waiting performances, and a payout control board 170 that controls the payout of game balls, etc., on the rear side further than the image display device 50 of the game board 1. The main control board 100 can be positioned as a game control unit (main control unit) that controls the game. The sub-control board 120 can be positioned as a performance control unit (sub-control unit) that controls the performance together with the image control board 140, the lamp control circuit 151, and the sound control circuit 161 described later. The performance control unit only needs to have at least the sub-control board 120 and be capable of controlling various performances using the performance means (the image display device 50, the speaker 52, the frame lamp 53, the board lamp 54, and the movable devices 55, 56, 58, etc.).

The pachinko game machine PY1 also includes a power supply board 190. The power supply board 190 supplies power to the main control board 100, the sub-control board 120, and the payout control board 170, and also supplies the necessary power to other devices through these boards. The power supply board 190 is provided with a RAM clear switch 191 that can be pressed. The RAM clear switch 191 (specific operation means) is for causing the gaming CPU 102 to clear (hereinafter referred to as "RAM clear") the game information (for example, information on the game state such as a high probability state, information such as the number of reserved special figures and the result of the jackpot judgment) stored in the gaming RAM 104 of the gaming control microcomputer 101 described later when the power is turned on. As shown in FIG. 8, the RAM clear switch 191 is provided on the power supply board 190 arranged on the back side of the pachinko game machine PY1. Therefore, only employees of the gaming facility who can open and close the front door 23 can operate the RAM clear switch 191. In other words, the RAM clear switch 191 can be said to be an operating means that cannot be operated by the player. When the RAM clear switch 191 is pressed, a detection signal indicating that the RAM clear switch 191 is ON is input to the game control microcomputer 101. Note that in this embodiment, the RAM clear switch 191 is provided on the power supply board 190, but the location of the RAM clear switch 191 can be changed as appropriate, and it may be provided, for example, on the main control board 100 or on a dedicated board.

The power supply board 190 is provided with a backup power supply circuit 192. When power is not being supplied to the pachinko game machine PY1, the backup power supply circuit 192 supplies power to the game RAM 104 of the main control board 100 and the performance RAM 124 of the sub-control board 120, which will be described later. Therefore, the information stored in the game RAM 104 of the main control board 100 and the performance RAM 124 of the sub-control board 120 is retained even when the power to the pachinko game machine PY1 is cut off. In addition, a power switch 193 is connected to the power supply board 190. The power supply is turned on and off by turning the power switch 193 on and off. Note that a backup power supply circuit for the game RAM 104 of the main control board 100 may be provided on the main control board 100, and a backup power supply circuit for the performance RAM 124 of the sub-control board 120 may be provided on the sub-control board 120.

As shown in FIG. 6, the main control board 100 is equipped with a one-chip microcomputer for game control (hereinafter referred to as the "microcomputer for game control") 101 that controls the progress of the game on the pachinko game machine PY1 according to a program. The microcomputer for game control 101 includes a game ROM (Read Only Memory) 103 that stores programs and tables for controlling the progress of the game, a game RAM (Random Access Memory) 104 used as a work memory, and a game CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102 that executes the programs stored in the game ROM 103.

The game ROM 103 stores programs for performing main control processing and main timer interrupt processing, which will be described later. The game ROM 103 also stores a jackpot determination table, a jackpot symbol type determination table, a reach determination table, a special symbol variation pattern determination table, a look-ahead determination table, a jackpot game control table, a win determination table, a regular symbol variation pattern determination table, and an auxiliary game control table, which will be described later. The game ROM 103 may be external.

The gaming RAM 104 is also provided with the special game reserve memory section 105 and the regular game reserve memory section 106 mentioned above. The gaming RAM 104 is also provided with a non-erasable memory section 107, which is provided with a total number of winning balls memory section 107a, a total number of shot balls memory section 107b, and a difference in number of balls memory section 107c. The non-erasable memory section 107 is designed so that the gaming CPU 102 does not erase the stored contents even if a RAM clear is executed.

The game control microcomputer 101 counts the total number of winning balls at any time after the power is turned on, and the information on the counted total number of winning balls is stored in the total number of winning balls memory unit 107a. The total number of winning balls is the number of winning balls that the player acquires (is paid out to the player) in all game states (normal game state, jackpot game state, high probability high base state, low probability high base state, etc.). The game control microcomputer 101 also counts the total number of shot balls at any time after the power is turned on, and the information on the counted total number of shot balls is stored in the total number of shot balls memory unit 107b. The total number of shot balls is the number of shot balls that the player shoots in all game states. The game control microcomputer 101 also calculates the difference in the number of balls by subtracting the total number of shot balls from the total number of winning balls at any time after the power is turned on, and the information on the calculated difference in the number of balls is stored in the difference in the number of balls memory unit 107c. The game control microcomputer 101 disables the game when the difference in number of balls (an example of a specific measurement number) becomes equal to or exceeds a reference number (e.g., "80,000"). This function is called the over-award ball prevention function. The over-award ball prevention function may be activated when the maximum difference in number of balls (also called the maximum number of balls held, MY, etc.) becomes a predetermined reference number. The maximum difference in number of balls is the difference between the minimum difference in number of balls, which is the lowest value of the measured difference in number of balls, and the peak (highest value) of the difference in number of balls after the minimum difference in number of balls is measured. In this case, the maximum difference in number of balls corresponds to the specific measurement number.

The main control board 100 is also provided with a 7-segment display 300, a setting key cylinder 180, and a special reset switch 181 (special operation means) (see FIG. 8). As shown in FIG. 9, the 7-segment display 300 is a so-called 4-segment 7-segment display with a total of 32 lighted (illuminated) parts. Specifically, the 7-segment display 300 is provided with a first display area 310, a second display area 320, a third display area 330, and a fourth display area 340, in that order from left to right. Each of the four display areas 310, 320, 330, and 340 has eight lighted parts (LED elements) LB1 to LB8, LB9 to LB16, LB17 to LB24, and LB25 to LB32, so that the numbers from "0" to "9" can be displayed. Display control of the 7-segment display 300 is performed by the game control microcomputer 101.

The setting key cylinder 180 functions as an operating means when setting a setting value corresponding to the probability of determining a big win. With a setting key (not shown) inserted inside the setting key cylinder 180, it is rotated between an initial position and a rotation position. Therefore, in this pachinko game machine PY1, by rotating the setting key cylinder 180 to the rotation position and turning on the power while pressing the RAM clear switch 191, it is possible to transition to a setting mode in which a setting value can be set. In this setting mode, the setting value can be set to "1". However, in this pachinko game machine PY1, only one setting value, "1", is provided. Therefore, the setting value cannot be changed from "1". Note that when the setting mode is set, if the setting key cylinder 180 is rotated from the rotation position to the standby position, the setting mode ends and the RAM is cleared.

The main control board 100 is also provided with a special reset switch 181 that can be pressed. As shown in FIG. 8, the special reset switch 181 is provided on the main control board 100 located on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine PY1. Therefore, only arcade employees who can open and close the front door 23 can operate the special reset switch 181. In other words, the special reset switch 181 can be said to be an operating means that cannot be operated by a player. The function of the special reset switch 181 will be described in detail later. The main control board 100 is also equipped with a gaming I/O (Input/Output) port section 118 for inputting and outputting data and signals.

Furthermore, various sensors MS and actuators MA are connected to the main control board 100 via a predetermined relay board (not shown). Therefore, signals output by the various sensors MS are input to the main control board 100. Furthermore, the main control board 100 outputs signals to the various actuators MA.

The various sensors MS connected to the main control board 100 include a first start port sensor 11a, a second start port sensor 12a, a general prize port sensor 10a, a gate sensor 13a, a first large prize port sensor 14a, a second large prize port sensor 15a, a specific area sensor 16a, and a non-specific area sensor 17a.

The first start opening sensor 11a detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening 11. The second start opening sensor 12a detects a game ball that has entered the second start opening 12. The general winning opening sensor 10a detects a game ball that has entered the general winning opening 10. The general winning opening sensor 10a is provided for each general winning opening 10. The gate sensor 13a is provided at the gate 13 and detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 13. The first large winning opening sensor 14a detects a game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 14. The second large winning opening sensor 15a detects a game ball that has entered the second large winning opening 15. The specific area sensor 16a detects a game ball that has passed through the specific area 16 (entered the specific area 16). The non-specific area sensor 17a detects a game ball that has passed through the non-specific area 17 (entered the non-specific area 17). When each sensor detects a game ball, it outputs a signal according to the detection result to the main control board 100.

Although not shown in FIG. 6, the various sensors MS include an outlet sensor that detects all game balls (total number of balls fired) flowing down the game area 6. Game balls that flow down outside the game area 6 are discharged to the outside of the pachinko game machine PY1 through an outlet path (not shown) provided at the bottom of the game board mounting frame 2A. For this reason, the outlet sensor is provided within the outlet path. The various sensors MS also include a magnetic sensor that detects illegal magnetism. The magnetic sensor detects the magnetic field generated when a player illegally uses a magnet or the like to cause a game ball to enter the various winning holes 10, 11, 12, 14, and 15. When each of the above-mentioned sensors detects a game ball, it outputs a signal corresponding to the detection content to the main control board 100.

The various sensors MS also include a front door open sensor that detects the opening of the front door 23 relative to the outer frame 22, and a front frame sensor that detects the opening of the front frame 23m relative to the game board mounting frame 2A. When the front door open sensor detects the opening of the front door 23, it outputs a signal according to the detection content to the main control board 100. When the front frame sensor detects the opening of the front frame 23m, it outputs a signal according to the detection content to the main control board 100. The type and number of sensors connected to the main control board 100 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

The various actuators MA connected to the main control board 100 include an electric chute solenoid 12s, a first large prize opening solenoid 14s, a second large prize opening solenoid 15s, and a distribution solenoid 16s. The electric chute solenoid 12s drives the electric chute opening and closing member 12k of the electric chute 12D. The first large prize opening solenoid 14s drives the normal AT opening and closing member 14k of the first large prize device 14D. The second large prize opening solenoid 15s drives the VAT opening and closing member 15k of the second large prize device 15D. The distribution solenoid 16s drives the distribution member 16k of the distribution device 16D.

The type and number of actuators connected to the main control board 100 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

Furthermore, displays 8 (special chart display 81, regular chart display 82, and special chart reserved display 83) are connected to the main control board 100. The display control of these displays 8 is performed by the game control microcomputer 101.

The main control board 100 also transmits various commands to the payout control board 170, and receives signals from the payout control board 170 to monitor payouts. The payout control board 170 is connected to a card unit CU (installed adjacent to the pachinko game machine PY1, which enables ball lending based on information such as an inserted prepaid card) and a prize ball payout device 73, as well as to a launching device 72 via a launch control circuit 175. The launching device 72 includes a handle 72k (see Figure 1).

Based on signals from the game control microcomputer 101 and signals from the connected card unit CU, the payout control board 170 drives the prize ball motor 73m of the prize ball payout device 73 to pay out prize balls or pay out loan balls. The paid-out game balls are detected by a prize ball sensor 73a for counting, and a detection signal from the prize ball sensor 73a is output to the payout control board 170.

The launching device 72 is also provided with a touch switch 72a capable of detecting contact with the handle 72k (see FIG. 1) by a person such as a player. When the player operates the handle 72k, the touch switch 72a detects the player's contact with the handle 72k and outputs a detection signal to the payout control board 170. A launch volume knob 72b capable of detecting the rotation angle (operation amount) of the handle 72k is also connected to the launching device 72. The launching device 72 drives the launch solenoid 72s so that the game ball is launched with a strength corresponding to the rotation angle of the handle 72k detected by the launch volume knob 72b. In the pachinko game machine PY1, when the rotation operation of the handle 72k is maintained, one game ball is launched approximately every 0.6 seconds.

The payout control board 170 is also connected to the external terminal board 160. That is, the external terminal board 160 is connected to the main control board 100 via the payout control board 170. The external terminal board 160 transmits the outer end signal sent from the main control board 100 to an external unit GU (data counter, hall computer, etc.) provided outside the pachinko game machine PY1. Information contained in the outer end signal includes, for example, information indicating whether a jackpot has been won, information on the game status, and information indicating an error or fraud (abnormality). Note that the external terminal board 160 transmits the outer end signal to the external unit GU by parallel communication, but the outer end signal may also be transmitted by asynchronous serial communication (a common asynchronous serial communication port). Additionally, while the main control board 100 is connected to the external terminal board 160 via the dispensing control board 170, the main control board 100 may be connected to the external terminal board 160 via a board other than the dispensing control board 170 (e.g., a relay board), or the main control board 100 and the external terminal board 160 may be directly connected.

The main control board 100 also transmits various commands containing information related to the game to the sub-control board 120 according to the progress of the game. The sub-control board 120 can grasp the progress of the game (control contents of the game) by the main control board 100 based on the various commands sent from the main control board 100. The connection between the main control board 100 and the sub-control board 120 is a one-way communication connection that only allows signals to be sent from the main control board 100 to the sub-control board 120. In other words, a unidirectional circuit (not shown, for example a circuit using a diode) is interposed between the main control board 100 and the sub-control board 120 as a communication direction restriction means.

As shown in FIG. 7, the sub-control board 120 is equipped with a one-chip microcomputer for controlling presentation (hereinafter referred to as "microcomputer for controlling presentation") 121, which controls the presentation of the pachinko game machine PY1 according to a program. The microcomputer for controlling presentation 121 includes a ROM for presentation 123 that stores programs for controlling presentation as the game progresses using the main control board 100, a RAM for presentation 124 used as a work memory, and a CPU for presentation 122 that executes the programs stored in the ROM for presentation 123.

The performance ROM 123 also stores programs for performing sub-control main processing, reception interrupt processing, 1 ms timer interrupt processing, and 10 ms timer interrupt processing, which will be described later. Note that the performance ROM 123 may be external.

The sub-control board 120 also includes an I/O port 138 for inputting and outputting data and signals, and an RTC (Real Time Clock) 139. The RTC 139 measures the current date and time. The RTC 139 operates on power when the pachinko game machine PY1 is supplied with power from a specified island power supply device (not shown), and operates on power supplied from a backup power circuit 192 provided on the power supply board 190 when power is not supplied from the island power supply device. Therefore, the RTC 139 can measure the current date and time even when the power of the pachinko game machine PY1 is not turned on. A backup power circuit for the RTC 139 may be provided on the sub-control board 120. The backup power circuit may include a circuit including a capacitor and an internal battery (such as a button battery).

The image control board 140 is connected to the sub-control board 120. The performance control microcomputer 121 of the sub-control board 120 causes the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 to control the display of the image display device 50 based on commands received from the main control board 100, i.e., according to the progress of the game by the main control board 100. The connection between the sub-control board 120 and the image control board 140 is a two-way communication connection that allows both the transmission of signals from the sub-control board 120 to the image control board 140 and the transmission of signals from the image control board 140 to the sub-control board 120.

The image control board 140 includes an image ROM 142 that stores programs for image control, an image RAM 143 that is used as a work memory, and an image CPU 141 that executes the programs stored in the image ROM 142. The image control board 140 also includes a CGROM 145 that stores image data to be displayed on the image display device 50, a VRAM 146 that is used to expand the image data stored in the CGROM 145, and a VDP (Video Display Processor) 144. Of course, all or part of these electronic components may be configured on a single chip. The CGROM 145 stores, for example, image data (still image data and video data, specifically image data of characters, items, figures, letters, numbers, symbols, etc. (including performance patterns) and background images) for displaying images to be displayed on the image display device 50.

The VDP 144 reads image data from the CGROM 145 and displays it in the display area in the VRAM 146 according to a display list created by the image CPU 141 based on instructions from the performance control microcomputer 121. The VDP 144 then appropriately combines the displayed image data to draw an image in the frame buffer in the VRAM 146. The image drawn in the frame buffer is then output to the image display device 50 as an RGB signal. As a result, various performance images are displayed on the display unit 50a.

The display list is made up of a set of commands that instruct the execution of drawing on a frame-by-frame basis. The display list contains various parameter information such as the type of image to be drawn, the position at which the image is to be drawn, the display priority, the display magnification, and the transparency of the image.

The performance control microcomputer 121 outputs voice, music, sound effects, etc. from the speaker 52 via the sound control circuit 161 based on commands received from the main control board 100, i.e., according to the progress of the game by the main control board 100.

Audio data such as the sound output from the speaker 52 is stored in the performance ROM 123 of the sub-control board 120. The audio control circuit 161 may be a board with a CPU mounted on it. In this case, the CPU may be made to execute the audio control. In this case, a ROM may be mounted on the board and audio data may be stored in the ROM. The speaker 52 may also be connected to the image control board 140 and the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 may be made to execute the audio control. In this case, the audio data may also be stored in the image ROM 142 of the image control board 140.

The sub-control board 120 is also connected to various switches that serve as input units, various actuators SA that serve as drive sources, and various lamps SL via a specified relay board (not shown). Signals output by the various switches are input to the sub-control board 120. The sub-control board 120 also outputs signals to the various actuators SA. The sub-control board 120 also controls the lighting of the various lamps SL via a lamp control circuit 151 based on commands received from the main control board 100.

The various switches connected to the sub-control board 120 include a normal button detection switch 40a and a special button detection switch 41a. The normal button detection switch 40a detects when the normal button 40 is pressed. The special button detection switch 41a detects when the special button 41 is pressed. Each detection switch 40a, 41a outputs a signal to the sub-control board 120 according to the detection content. The type and number of switches connected to the sub-control board 120 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

The various actuators SA connected to the sub-control board 120 include an upper board drive motor 55m that drives the upper board movable device 55, a lower board drive motor 56m that drives the lower board movable device 56, and a frame drive motor 58m that drives the frame movable device 58. The performance control microcomputer 121 can drive these motors to cause each movable device to perform a specified operation. In detail, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates operation pattern data that determines the operation mode of each movable device, and controls the operation of each movable device via the lamp control circuit 151. The sub-control board 120 is also connected to a vibration motor (not shown) for vibrating the normal button 40. The type and number of actuators connected to the sub-control board 120 can be changed as appropriate within the range that does not interfere with the game.

The various lamps SL connected to the sub-control board 120 include a frame lamp 53, a board lamp 54, etc. The performance control microcomputer 121 is capable of lighting up each lamp. In detail, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates light pattern data (data that determines the on/off state, light color, etc., also called lamp data) that determines the light emission mode of each lamp, and controls the light emission of each lamp according to the light pattern data. Note that data stored in the performance ROM 123 of the sub-control board 120 is used to create the light pattern data.

A CPU may be mounted on the lamp control circuit 151 as a circuit board. In this case, the CPU may be made to control the lighting of each lamp and the operation of each movable device. Furthermore, in this case, a ROM may be mounted on the board and data related to the light emission patterns and operation patterns may be stored in the ROM. The type and number of lamps connected to the sub-control board 120 may be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

3. Main Games Played by the Gaming Machine Next, the main games played by the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 17. In the description that follows "7. Pachinko gaming machine of the first embodiment" below, if a table other than the tables shown in Figures 10 to 17 is shown, it is assumed that the table is used in the pachinko gaming machine of each embodiment, and for configurations that do not show a different table, it is assumed that the table shown here is used.

3-1. Games related to normal figures First, a game related to normal figures will be explained. When the launched game ball passes through the gate 13, the pachinko game machine PY1 performs a normal figure lottery. When the normal figure lottery is performed, the normal figure display 82 performs a variable display of the normal figure (a static display after a variable display). Here, the statically displayed normal figures include winning figures and losing figures. The losing figures of the normal figures are also called "losing normal figures" to distinguish them from the losing figures of the special figures described later. When a winning figure is statically displayed, an auxiliary game is executed, and the game related to the passage of the gate 13 is ended. On the other hand, when a losing normal figure is statically displayed, the auxiliary game is not executed, and the game related to the passage of the gate 13 is ended. In addition, hereinafter, the passing of the game ball through the gate 13 is referred to as "establishment of the normal figure start condition."

When the pachinko game machine PY1 performs this series of games (regular game lottery, variable display of regular games, auxiliary games), it acquires regular game-related random numbers when the regular game start conditions are met. The acquired regular game-related random numbers include regular game pattern random numbers, as shown in FIG. 10 (A). Regular game pattern random numbers are random numbers used to determine whether a win has occurred. The random numbers are also called determination information. Appropriate ranges are set for the random numbers.

3-1-1. Hit Judgment Hit judgment is a judgment for determining whether or not a win (whether or not to execute an auxiliary game) according to a hit judgment table as shown in FIG. 11 (A). The hit judgment table is associated with the game state described later. That is, the hit judgment table includes a hit judgment table used in a non-time-saving state (a hit judgment table for non-time-saving) and a hit judgment table used in a time-saving state (a hit judgment table for time-saving). In each hit judgment table, the judgment value of the normal pattern random number (normal pattern random number value) is allocated to a hit or a miss, which is the result of the hit judgment. Therefore, the pachinko game machine PY1 judges whether the result is a hit or a miss by judging the acquired normal pattern random number according to the hit judgment table. Then, based on the result of the hit judgment, a normal pattern variation pattern judgment is performed for performing a variable display of the normal pattern. If the result of the hit judgment is a hit, a winning pattern is basically displayed in a variable display of the normal pattern. On the other hand, if the result of the hit judgment is a miss, a miss normal pattern is basically displayed in a variable display of the normal pattern. The probability of winning may be changed as appropriate. Also, the win determination table does not need to be divided for each game state.

3-1-2. Normal map fluctuation The normal map fluctuation pattern judgment is a judgment for determining the normal map fluctuation pattern according to the normal map fluctuation pattern judgment table as shown in Fig. 11 (B). The normal map fluctuation pattern is identification information regarding predetermined items related to the variable display of the normal map, such as the normal map fluctuation time.

The normal map fluctuation pattern determination table is associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). That is, the normal map fluctuation pattern determination table includes a normal map fluctuation pattern determination table (non-time-saving normal map fluctuation pattern determination table) used in the non-time-saving state and a normal map fluctuation pattern determination table (time-saving normal map fluctuation pattern determination table) used in the time-saving state. Note that the normal map fluctuation pattern determination table does not have to be divided for each game state.

In each normal map fluctuation pattern determination table, a normal map fluctuation pattern, which is the result of the normal map fluctuation pattern determination, is stored for each normal map that is stopped. That is, the pachinko game machine PY1 can make the normal map fluctuation time different in the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state. For example, in the non-time-saving state, for the variable display of the normal map when a losing normal map (losing normal map) is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern in which the normal map fluctuation time is, for example, 30 seconds is determined, and for the variable display of the normal map when a winning pattern is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern in which the normal map fluctuation time is, for example, 30 seconds is determined. Also, in the time-saving state, for the variable display of the normal map when a losing normal map is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern in which the normal map fluctuation time is, for example, 5 seconds is determined, and for the variable display of the normal map when a winning pattern is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern in which the normal map fluctuation time is, for example, 5 seconds is determined. The variable display of the normal map corresponding to the normal map fluctuation pattern determined by this determination is performed by the normal map display device 82. In addition, the time for these map fluctuations can be changed as appropriate. In this way, hit determination and map fluctuation pattern determination are performed, and the map is displayed variably on the map display 82.

Auxiliary games are played when a winning symbol is displayed (derived) as a display result (a result of a lottery for a regular symbol) in the variable display of the regular symbol.

The elements that make up the auxiliary game (auxiliary game components) include various elements such as the number of times the electric chute 12D opens and the opening time for each opening. Each of these elements is associated with a game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). The pachinko game machine PY1 controls the auxiliary game according to an auxiliary game control table such as that shown in FIG. 11 (C) based on the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). The auxiliary game control table is associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). Auxiliary game components are stored in each auxiliary game control table. The number of times the electric chute 12D opens and the opening time for each opening can be changed as appropriate.

In the pachinko game machine PY1, the opening time of the electric chute 12D is different between the auxiliary game in the non-time-saving state and the auxiliary game in the time-saving state. For example, in the auxiliary game in the non-time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is opened for a first opening time (a time during which it is difficult to get the game ball to enter the electric chute 12D (e.g., 0.08 seconds)). In the following, the auxiliary game in the non-time-saving state is also referred to as a "short opening auxiliary game". In addition, in the auxiliary game in the time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is opened for a second opening time longer than the first opening time (a time during which it is easy to get the game ball to enter the electric chute 12D (e.g., 3.0 seconds)). In the following, the auxiliary game in the time-saving state is also referred to as a "long opening auxiliary game". Note that the opening time of the electric chute 12D may be the same between the auxiliary game in the non-time-saving state and the auxiliary game in the time-saving state.

3-2. Games related to special figures Next, games related to special figures will be explained. When the launched game ball enters the first starting hole 11, the pachinko game machine PY1 performs a special figure 1 lottery. When the special figure 1 lottery is performed, the special figure 1 display 81a performs a variable display of the special figure 1 (a stop display after performing a variable display) to notify the result of the special figure 1 lottery. Here, the special figure 1 that is stopped and displayed has a jackpot pattern and a loss pattern. In other words, the results of the special figure 1 lottery include a jackpot and a loss. When the jackpot pattern is stopped and displayed, a jackpot game is executed, a new game state is set, and the game based on the winning is ended. On the other hand, when a loss pattern is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game is not performed, and the game based on the winning is ended.

Similarly, the pachinko game machine PY1 performs a special drawing for the 2nd drawing when the released game ball enters the second starting hole 12. When the special drawing for the 2nd drawing is performed, the special drawing for the 2nd drawing is variably displayed (variably displayed and then stopped) on the special drawing for the 2nd drawing device 81b to notify the result of the special drawing for the 2nd drawing. Here, the special drawing for the 2nd drawing that is stopped includes a jackpot pattern and a losing pattern. In other words, the results of the special drawing for the 2nd drawing include a jackpot pattern and a losing pattern. When a jackpot pattern is stopped, a jackpot game is executed, a new game state is set, and the game based on the winning is terminated. On the other hand, when a losing pattern is stopped, a jackpot game is not performed and the game based on the winning is terminated.

In the following, the entry of a game ball into the first start hole 11 is referred to as the "fulfillment of the first start condition," and the entry of a game ball into the second start hole 12 is referred to as the "fulfillment of the second start condition." Furthermore, the "fulfillment of the first start condition" and the "fulfillment of the second start condition" are collectively referred to as the "fulfillment of the start condition." Furthermore, the losing special symbol is also referred to as the "losing special symbol" to distinguish it from the losing normal symbols described above.

When the pachinko game machine PY1 performs this series of games (special symbol lottery, variable display of special symbols, jackpot game, and game state setting), it acquires special symbol-related random numbers when the start conditions are met, and performs various judgments on the random numbers. The acquired special symbol-related random numbers include special symbol random numbers (jackpot random numbers), symbol type random numbers, reach random numbers, and special symbol change pattern random numbers, as shown in FIG. 10(B). The special symbol random numbers are random numbers used to make jackpot judgments. The symbol type random numbers are random numbers used to make jackpot symbol type judgments (win symbol type judgments). The reach random numbers are random numbers used to make reach judgments. The special symbol change pattern random numbers are random numbers used to make special symbol change pattern judgments. The random numbers are also called judgment information. An appropriate range is set for each random number.

3-2-1. Jackpot Determination Jackpot determination is a determination for determining whether or not a jackpot has occurred (whether or not a jackpot game is executed) according to a jackpot determination table as shown in FIG. 12(A). The jackpot determination table is associated with the game state, specifically, whether it is a normal probability state or a high probability state. That is, the jackpot determination table includes a jackpot determination table used in the normal probability state (normal probability jackpot determination table) and a jackpot determination table used in the high probability state (high probability jackpot determination table).

In each jackpot determination table, a special symbol random number determination value (special symbol random number value) is assigned to the jackpot and miss results of the jackpot determination. The pachinko game machine PY1 determines whether the acquired special symbol random number is a jackpot or a miss by judging it according to the jackpot determination table. As shown in FIG. 12(A), the high probability jackpot determination table has more special symbol random number determination values that are determined to be jackpots than the normal probability jackpot determination table. Also, the probability of winning a jackpot can be changed as appropriate. Also, if it is configured so that a small jackpot can be won, the result of the jackpot determination can include a small jackpot win.

3-2-2. Jackpot symbol type determination (winning symbol type determination)
The jackpot symbol type determination is a determination for determining the type of the jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol type) according to a jackpot symbol type determination table as shown in Fig. 12 (B) when the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot. Each type of jackpot symbol is associated with the contents of the jackpot, in other words, the components of the jackpot that are composed of the game benefits given to the player.

The jackpot symbol type determination table is associated with the type of special symbol (special symbol 1/special symbol 2) that is variably displayed, in other words, the type of start port (first start port 11/second start port 12) where the winning that caused the jackpot symbol type determination (the winning that caused the jackpot symbol type determination) occurred. That is, the jackpot symbol type determination table includes a jackpot symbol type determination table (first jackpot symbol type determination table) used when performing the variable display of special symbol 1, and a jackpot symbol type determination table (second jackpot symbol type determination table) used when performing the variable display of special symbol 2.

There are multiple types of jackpot symbols, and in each jackpot symbol type determination table, the determination value of the symbol type random number (symbol type random number value) is assigned to the jackpot symbol type, which is the result of the jackpot symbol type determination. Therefore, the pachinko game machine PY1 determines the type of jackpot symbol by determining the acquired symbol type random number according to the jackpot symbol type determination table. Then, in the first jackpot symbol type determination table and the second jackpot symbol type determination table, the symbol type random number value is appropriately assigned to various jackpot symbols. The allocation rate of the jackpot symbol type can be changed as appropriate. Also, the types of jackpot symbols can be increased or decreased as appropriate.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12(B), the distribution rate of the jackpot pattern type determined by the jackpot pattern type determination for special chart 1 can be set to 50% for jackpot pattern A and 50% for jackpot pattern B, and the distribution rate of the jackpot pattern type determined by the jackpot pattern type determination for special chart 2 can be set to 100% for jackpot pattern C. In this way, it is possible to make the distribution rate of the jackpot pattern type different between the special chart 1 lottery performed when the game ball enters the first starting hole 11 and the special chart 2 lottery performed when the game ball enters the second starting hole 12. In addition, if a small prize is possible, it is possible to configure the configuration so that the type of the small prize pattern is determined when a small prize is won. The winning pattern type determination includes the determination of the type of the jackpot pattern and the determination of the type of the small prize pattern. The determination of the type of the small prize pattern is also performed using a pattern type random number, just like the determination of the type of the jackpot pattern.

Reach judgment is a judgment for determining whether or not to generate a reach in the special chart variation performance described later according to a reach judgment table as shown in FIG. 12 (C) when the result of the jackpot judgment is a miss.

The reach judgment table is associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). That is, there are reach judgment tables, one for use in the non-time-saving state (non-time-saving reach judgment table) and one for use in the time-saving state (time-saving reach judgment table). Note that it is not necessary to separate the reach judgment tables for each game state.

In each reach judgment table, the reach random number judgment value (reach random number value) is assigned to the reach judgment result of "reach (reach occurs)" and "no reach (reach does not occur)". Therefore, the pachinko game machine PY1 judges the acquired reach random number according to the reach judgment table to judge whether it is reach or not (whether or not to generate a reach). As shown in FIG. 12 (C), the number of reach random number values judged as "reach (reach occurs)" is different between the non-time-saving reach judgment table and the time-saving reach judgment table. Note that the probability of judging as reaching can be changed appropriately. In the following, "reach (reach occurs)" performed on the premise that the result of the jackpot judgment is "miss" is referred to as "reach with miss" and "no reach (reach does not occur)" is also referred to as "no reach miss".

3-2-4. Special pattern change pattern determination The special pattern change pattern determination is a determination for determining the change pattern (special pattern change pattern) of the variable display of the special pattern using a special pattern change pattern determination table (special pattern change pattern determination table) as shown in Figures 13 to 14, and is performed in both cases where the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot or a miss. The special pattern change pattern is identification information for identifying predetermined items related to the special pattern change time and the performance flow (performance content) of the special pattern change performance described later. In addition, the special pattern change pattern includes identification information related to the result of the jackpot determination and the result of the reach determination, in addition to the special pattern change time and the performance flow (performance content) of the special pattern change performance. The identification information included in the special pattern change pattern can be changed as appropriate. In addition, it is possible to use multiple types of special pattern change patterns with different identification information as the special pattern change pattern, and the number of them can be changed as appropriate.

The special pattern variation pattern judgment table is associated with the type of special pattern (special pattern 1/special pattern 2) that performs the variable display to be judged, in other words, the type of start port (first start port 11/second start port 12) where the winning that caused the special pattern variation pattern judgment was made. That is, the special pattern variation pattern judgment table includes a special pattern variation pattern judgment table (special pattern 1 variation pattern judgment table: Figure 13) used when performing the variable display of special pattern 1, and a special pattern variation pattern judgment table (special pattern 2 variation pattern judgment table: Figure 14) used when performing the variable display of special pattern 2. Note that the special pattern variation pattern judgment table does not have to be divided according to the type of special pattern (special pattern 1/special pattern 2).

And each special chart fluctuation pattern judgment table is also associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). That is, the special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table includes a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the non-time-saving state (special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table for non-time-saving) and a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the time-saving state (special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table for time-saving). On the other hand, the special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table also includes a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the non-time-saving state (special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table for non-time-saving) and a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the time-saving state (special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table for time-saving). It is not necessary to separate the special chart fluctuation pattern judgment tables for each game state.

In addition, each special chart fluctuation pattern determination table associated with a game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state) is further associated with a jackpot determination result and a reach determination result. That is, the non-time-saving special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table and the non-time-saving special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table each have a jackpot, a reach and miss, and a no-reach miss. Similarly, the time-saving special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table and the time-saving special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table each have a jackpot, a reach and miss, and a no-reach miss. Note that the special chart fluctuation pattern determination tables do not have to be divided according to the jackpot determination result and the reach determination result.

Furthermore, each special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach is also associated with the reserved number of special charts. For example, there is a special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach that is used when the reserved number of special charts 1 (U1) is 0 to 2, and a special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach that is used when the reserved number of special charts 1 (U1) is 3 to 4. Furthermore, each special chart 2 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach is also associated with the reserved number of special charts. Specifically, there is a special chart 2 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach that is used when the reserved number of special charts 2 (U2) is 0 to 2, and a special chart 2 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach that is used when the reserved number of special charts 2 (U2) is 3 to 4. Note that the special chart variation pattern judgment table does not have to be divided according to the reserved number of special charts.

Then, the special chart display 81 performs a variable display of the special chart for the special chart variation time according to the special chart variation pattern determined by each special chart variation pattern judgment. Then, when the jackpot pattern is displayed as a static display result (the result of the special chart lottery) in the variable display of the special chart, the next variable display of the special chart is not performed immediately, and the jackpot game is executed next.

In addition, each special chart change pattern is associated with a special chart change presentation flow as shown in the second column from the right in the tables of Figures 13 and 14. Note that it is not necessary to associate a special chart change pattern with a special chart change presentation flow.

Also, as shown in the rightmost column of the tables in Figures 13 and 14, the special chart variation patterns are sometimes called by names related to the special chart (jackpot determination result) and the content of the special chart variation presentation. For example, a special chart variation pattern related to a jackpot is called a "jackpot variation," and a special chart variation pattern related to a miss is called a "miss variation." Among the jackpot variations, a special chart variation pattern in which an SP reach, which is a type of reach, is performed is called an "SP jackpot variation," a special chart variation pattern in which an L reach is performed is called an "L jackpot variation," a special chart variation pattern in which the special chart variation presentation ends with an N reach is called an "N jackpot variation," and a special chart variation pattern in which the same numbers line up as soon as a reach is established is called an "instant jackpot variation." On the other hand, among the misses with reach, the special chart change pattern in which the SP reach, which is a type of reach, is performed is called "SP miss change", the special chart change pattern in which the L reach, which is a type of reach, is performed is called "L miss change", the special chart change pattern in which the special chart change performance ends with the N reach, which is a type of reach, is called "N miss change", and the special chart change pattern related to the miss without reach is called "normal miss change". There are three types of normal miss changes with different change times (normal A miss change, normal B miss change, normal C miss change). In addition, the special chart change pattern related to the miss without reach that has a shorter change time than the "normal miss change" is called "shortened miss change". There are two types of shortened miss changes with different change times (shortened A miss change, shortened B miss change). In addition, when referring to SP big wins and SP miss fluctuations collectively, they are called SP fluctuations or SP reach fluctuations.

3-2-5. Pre-reading judgment The pachinko game machine PY1 performs a pre-reading judgment according to a pre-reading judgment table as shown in FIG. 15 based on the acquired special symbol related random number. The pre-reading judgment is performed before the jackpot judgment (specifically, for example, at the time of winning in the start hole). The pre-reading judgment includes, for example, a judgment of whether or not the special symbol random number is judged as a jackpot in the jackpot judgment, a judgment of which jackpot symbol type the symbol type random number is determined to be in the jackpot symbol type judgment, and a judgment of which special symbol variation pattern the special symbol variation pattern random number is determined to be in the special symbol variation pattern judgment. The pre-reading judgment table is associated with the type of start hole (first start hole 11/second start hole 12) related to the start winning. That is, the pre-reading judgment table includes a pre-reading judgment table (first pre-reading judgment table) when the first start hole 11 is won, and a pre-reading judgment table (second pre-reading judgment table) when the second start hole 12 is won. Since the first starting hole 11 is the starting hole that triggers the drawing of the special drawing 1, the first look-ahead judgment table can also be called the special drawing 1 look-ahead judgment table. Also, since the second starting hole 12 is the starting hole that triggers the drawing of the special drawing 2, the second look-ahead judgment table can also be called the special drawing 2 look-ahead judgment table. Note that the look-ahead judgment table does not have to be divided according to the type of starting hole (first starting hole 11/second starting hole 12). Also, a starting winning is a winning at a starting hole.

The look-ahead judgment table is also associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). That is, there are look-ahead judgment tables used in the non-time-saving state (non-time-saving look-ahead judgment table) and look-ahead judgment tables used in the time-saving state (time-saving look-ahead judgment table).

In other words, the look-ahead judgment tables include a first look-ahead judgment table used when the time is not reduced, a second look-ahead judgment table used when the time is reduced, a second look-ahead judgment table used when the time is not reduced, and a third look-ahead judgment table used when the time is reduced. Note that the look-ahead judgment tables do not need to be separated for each game state. Also, the types of judgments to be included in the look-ahead judgment can be changed as appropriate.

3-3. Jackpot Game Next, the jackpot game will be described. The jackpot game includes multiple rounds of play accompanied by the opening and closing of the jackpot opening (first jackpot opening 14 or second jackpot opening 15), an opening (also referred to as OP) from the start of the jackpot game until the start of the first round of play, and an ending (also referred to as ED) from the end of the final round of play until the end of the jackpot game. Each round of play starts with the end of the opening or the end of the previous round of play, and ends with the start of the next round of play or the start of the ending. It is also possible not to provide an OP or an ED. In the following, a predetermined number of rounds (predetermined order) of play will simply be referred to as a "round". For example, the first (first) round of play will be referred to as "1st round (1R)", and the tenth round of play will be referred to as "10th round (10R)".

The elements that make up such a jackpot game (jackpot game components) include the number of rounds of play, the number of times the jackpot openings (first jackpot opening 14, second jackpot opening 15) are opened in each round of play, the type of jackpot opening and the opening time for each opening, the time it is closed until the next opening (closing time or interval time), the opening time (opening time), and the ending time (ending time). After the special chart is stopped and displayed, the pachinko game machine PY1 controls the jackpot game in accordance with a jackpot game control table such as that shown in FIG. 16.

As shown in FIG. 16, the jackpot game control table stores jackpot game components for each jackpot game (e.g., for each jackpot game A to C). In each jackpot game, from 1R to 15R, a round game in which the first large prize opening 14 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds or a round game in which the first large prize opening 14 is open for a maximum of 0.1 seconds is played. Then, in 16R (the final round), a round game in which the second large prize opening 15 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds or a round game in which the second large prize opening 15 is open for a maximum of 0.1 seconds is played. In each round game, when a predetermined number of game balls (e.g., 10 balls) are detected by the large prize opening sensors 14a and 15a, the round game is ended even before the maximum opening time of the large prize openings 14 and 15 has elapsed.

It is possible to configure the jackpot game A shown in FIG. 16 to be executed when the type of the winning jackpot pattern is jackpot pattern A (see FIG. 12(B)), the jackpot game B to be executed when the type of the winning jackpot pattern is jackpot pattern B, and the jackpot game C to be executed when the type of the winning jackpot pattern is jackpot pattern C.

The number of times and the time for each jackpot game component can be changed as appropriate. The jackpot game can be played using both the first jackpot opening 14 and the second jackpot opening 15, or only one of them. In a configuration in which only the first jackpot opening 14 is used for jackpot games, or in which only the second jackpot opening 15 is used for jackpot games, the unused jackpot opening may not be provided. The number of types of jackpot games that can be played may be multiple or only one.

Now, the specific area 16 will be described in detail. The specific area 16 can be in a closed state, in which no prizes can be won, and an open state, in which a prize can be won, by the distribution member 16k, so the operating mode of the distribution member 16k can be said to be the opening and closing mode of the specific area 16. Hereinafter, the operating mode of the distribution member 16k will also be referred to as the "opening and closing mode of the specific area 16". In addition, the open state of the specific area 16 will also be referred to as "V-open", and the closed state of the specific area 16 will also be referred to as "V-closed".

The distribution member 16k is controlled in a certain operating mode (i.e., the specific area 16 is controlled in a certain opening/closing mode). For example, for 15 seconds after the second large prize opening 15 starts to open, the distribution solenoid 16s is energized and the distribution member 16k is controlled in the second state (FIG. 3(B)). Therefore, in a round game in which the second large prize opening 15 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds, the relationship between the opening time and timing of the second large prize opening 15 and the time and timing at which the distribution member 16k is controlled to the second state makes it easy for the game ball to pass through the specific area 16 (to enter the specific area 16). On the other hand, in a round game in which the second large prize opening 15 is open for a maximum of 0.1 seconds, due to the relationship between the opening time and timing of the second large prize opening 15 and the time and timing during which the distribution member 16k is controlled to the second state, it is almost impossible (difficult) for the game ball to pass through the specific area 16 (to make the game ball enter the specific area 16). In this way, by combining a certain operating mode of the distribution member 16k (a certain opening and closing mode of the specific area 16) with the opening and closing mode of the second large prize opening 15 in a jackpot game, it is possible to set the difficulty (ease) of making the game ball enter the specific area 16 in a jackpot game. Note that the operating mode of the distribution member 16k can be changed as appropriate. When a different operating mode is shown in the description from "7. Pachinko Game Machine of the First Embodiment" onwards, it is assumed that the pachinko game machine of each embodiment adopts that operating mode.

Note that during a jackpot game, a jackpot in which the VAT opening/closing member 15k and the distribution member 16k operate in the first opening pattern (V-long opening pattern) in which it is easy for the game ball to pass through the specific area 16 (hereinafter also referred to as "V passing") is called a "V-long jackpot", and a jackpot in which the VAT opening/closing member 15k and the distribution member 16k operate in the second opening pattern (V-short opening pattern) in which it is impossible or difficult for the game ball to pass through the specific area 16 is called a "V-short jackpot".

3-4. Game state Next, the game state will be described. As shown in FIG. 17, the pachinko game machine PY1 can be set to any one of the game states of "low probability low base game state", "low probability high base game state", "high probability low base game state", "high probability high base game state" and "jackpot game state". The "low probability low base game state" may be abbreviated to "low probability low base state", the "low probability high base game state" to "low probability high base state", the "high probability low base game state" to "high probability low base state", and the "high probability high base game state" to "high probability high base state". The game states include a state related to the probability of being determined as a "jackpot" in the jackpot determination and a state related to the ease of opening the electric chute 12D. The former includes a normal probability state and a high probability state. On the other hand, the latter includes a non-time-saving state and a time-saving state.

The normal probability state is set in a "low probability low base game state" or a "low probability high base game state", and the probability of being judged as a jackpot in the jackpot judgment is normal. The high probability state is set in a "high probability low base game state" or a "high probability high base game state", and the probability of being judged as a jackpot in the jackpot judgment is higher than the normal probability. Therefore, it can be said that the high probability state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal probability state. When the power is turned on for the first time in the pachinko game machine PY1, the normal probability state is set. Then, it is possible to switch from the normal probability state to the high probability state by winning a jackpot. For example, it is possible to switch to the high probability state by the game ball passing through the specific area 16 in a jackpot game. It is also possible to switch to the high probability state depending on the type of jackpot pattern. Whether the trigger for switching to the high probability state is V passing or the type of jackpot pattern is determined in advance according to the game characteristics to be realized. In the high probability state, a certain number of jackpot determinations can be made without winning the jackpot, or it is possible to switch from the high probability state to the normal probability state by winning the next jackpot.

The non-time-saving state is set in the "low probability low base game state", "high probability low base game state" or "jackpot game state". The time-saving state is set in the "low probability high base game state" or "high probability high base game state", and is a game state in which the opening time of the electric chute 12D in one auxiliary game is likely to be longer than in the non-time-saving state. For example, in the time-saving state, the opening time of the electric chute 12D is longer (e.g., 3.0 seconds) than in the non-time-saving state (e.g., 0.08 seconds). In addition, in the time-saving state, the special chart change pattern is determined according to a special chart change pattern determination table that is determined so that a special chart change pattern with a short special chart change time is selected more often than in the non-time-saving state (see Figures 13 to 14). As a result, in the time-saving state, the pace of consumption of the special chart reservation is faster, and effective winning at the starting port (winning that can be stored as a special chart reservation) is more likely to occur. Therefore, it is possible to aim for a jackpot under smooth game progress.

In addition, in the time-saving state, the normal map change time is more likely to be shorter than in the non-time-saving state. For example, in the time-saving state, a normal map change time (5 seconds) is determined that is shorter than the normal map change time (30 seconds) determined in the non-time-saving state (Figure 11 (B)). Therefore, in the time-saving state, the number of times the normal map lottery is executed per unit time is greater.

In addition, the time-saving state is more likely to be judged as a hit in the hit judgment than the non-time-saving state. For example, in the time-saving state, a hit is judged with a higher probability (e.g., 59936/65536) than the probability of a hit being judged as a hit in the non-time-saving state (e.g., 6600/65536) (Figure 11 (A)). Therefore, the time-saving state is judged as a hit more often per unit time.

In this way, in the time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is open for a longer period of time per unit time compared to the non-time-saving state, making it easier for game balls to enter the second starting hole 12 more frequently. As a result, the base, which is the ratio of the number of winning balls to the number of balls fired, becomes higher. Therefore, in the time-saving state, where the base is high, it is possible to aim for a jackpot without significantly reducing the number of game balls in the player's possession. Therefore, it can be said that the time-saving state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the non-time-saving state.

When the pachinko game machine PY1 is first powered on, the non-time-saving state is set. Then, for example, the time-saving state can be set by winning a jackpot. In the time-saving state, a predetermined number of jackpot determinations can be made without winning a jackpot, or the time-saving state can be changed to the non-time-saving state by winning the next jackpot.

In addition, in the time-saving state, compared to the non-time-saving state, it is easier to win a prize, the normal chart change time is more likely to be shorter, and the opening time of the electric chute 12D during one auxiliary play is more likely to be longer. In other words, three points about the game related to the normal chart are set to the player's advantage. However, the points set to the player's advantage may only be part of these. Also, the special chart change pattern determination table in the time-saving state does not have to be one in which a special chart change pattern with a shorter special chart change time is more likely to be selected than in the non-time-saving state.

After the pachinko game machine PY1 is first powered on, the game state is a "low probability, low base game state" in which the normal probability state and the non-time-saving state are set. This game state is also called the "normal game state." In the "jackpot game state," a normal drawing (a hit determination for a normal drawing) is performed but a special drawing (a hit determination) is not performed, so the non-time-saving state is set with the start of the jackpot game. In addition, it is possible to use all or some of the game states described above for the game state. In addition, it is assumed that the various game states described in this specification can be arbitrarily expressed in the form of an "nth game state" (n is an integer equal to or greater than 1). In addition, a low-probability, low-base game state (low-probability, low-base state) can be called a low-probability, non-time-saving state, a low-probability, high-base game state (low-probability, high-base state) can be called a low-probability, time-saving state, a high-probability, low-base game state (high-probability, low-base state) can be called a high-probability, non-time-saving state, and a high-probability, high-base game state (high-probability, high-base state) can be called a high-probability, time-saving state.

4. Main Effects of the Gaming Machine Next, the main effects performed by the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

4-1. Presentation mode First, the presentation mode will be described. Presentation mode is a category of presentation (or a higher conceptual attribute). The pachinko game machine PY1 can set the following presentation modes: a customer waiting presentation mode, a normal presentation mode, a probability variation presentation mode, a time-saving presentation mode, and a big win presentation mode.

The customer waiting performance mode can be set when the special chart change performance is not being performed in the "low probability low base game state", "low probability high base game state", "high probability low base game state" and "high probability high base game state", and is a performance mode that indicates a standby state in which the special chart change performance is not being performed. When the customer waiting performance mode is set, the customer waiting performance is performed. In the customer waiting performance, for example, as shown in FIG. 18 (A-1), a customer waiting demo video G100 introducing the pachinko game machine PY1 is displayed on the display unit 50a. In addition, when the normal button 40 is operated while the customer waiting demo video G100 is displayed, a setting screen G101 for setting the performance of the pachinko game machine PY1 is displayed as shown in FIG. 18 (A-2). The performance settings include the volume setting of the sound output from the speaker 52, the brightness setting of the display unit 50a, and the frequency setting of the performance to be executed.

The normal presentation mode can be set when the special chart change presentation is being performed in the "low probability low base game state" or the "high probability low base game state", and is a presentation mode that can indicate a non-time-saving state. The normal presentation modes include, for example, a first normal presentation mode in which a background image (daytime normal background image G102) showing a daytime mountain scene is displayed on the display unit 50a as shown in FIG. 18 (B-1), a second normal presentation mode in which a background image (evening normal background image G103) showing an evening mountain scene is displayed on the display unit 50a as shown in FIG. 18 (B-2), and a third normal presentation mode in which a background image (nighttime normal background image G104) showing a nighttime mountain scene is displayed on the display unit 50a as shown in FIG. 18 (B-3), and can be switched under the condition that the special chart change presentation is performed once or multiple times without winning a jackpot. In the first to third normal presentation modes, before a reach is achieved in the special chart variation presentation, one of the daytime normal background image G102, the evening normal background image G103, and the nighttime normal background image G104 is displayed on the display unit 50a, but after the reach is achieved, a dedicated background image according to the type of reach may be displayed on the display unit 50a. In addition, a special presentation mode that is set only in the "high probability low base game state" may be provided.

The probability variation presentation mode is a presentation mode that can be set when the special chart variation presentation is being performed in a "high probability high base game state", and is a presentation mode that indicates a high probability state and a time-saving state. In the probability variation presentation mode, for example, as shown in FIG. 18 (B-4), a background image representing space (probability variation background image G105) is displayed on the display unit 50a. Note that in the probability variation presentation mode, before a reach is achieved in the special chart variation presentation, the probability variation background image G105 is displayed on the display unit 50a, but after the reach is achieved, a dedicated background image according to the type of reach may be displayed on the display unit 50a.

The time-saving presentation mode is a presentation mode that can be set when the special chart change presentation is being performed in the "low probability high base game state", and is a presentation mode that indicates that the normal probability state and the time-saving state are in place. In the time-saving presentation mode, for example, as shown in FIG. 18 (B-5), a background image showing the sky (time-saving background image G106) is displayed on the display unit 50a. Note that in the time-saving presentation mode, before a reach is achieved in the special chart change presentation, the time-saving background image G106 is displayed on the display unit 50a, but after the reach is achieved, a dedicated background image according to the type of reach may be displayed on the display unit 50a.

The jackpot presentation mode is a presentation mode that can be set when a jackpot game is being played in the "jackpot game state", and is a presentation mode that indicates that a jackpot game is being played. In the jackpot presentation mode, for example, during the opening of the jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 18 (C-1), a jackpot opening presentation is performed in which an opening image G107 suggesting the start of the jackpot game and a right-hit image G108 encouraging "right hit" are displayed on the display unit 50a. During the round of the jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 18 (C-2), a round presentation is performed in which a round image G109 indicating the number of rounds and a prize ball number image G110 suggesting the number of prize balls paid out are displayed on the display unit 50a. During the ending of the jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 18 (C-3), a jackpot ending presentation is performed in which an ending image G111 suggesting the presentation mode to be set after the jackpot game and a total prize ball number image G112 suggesting the total prize ball number paid out are displayed on the display unit 50a.

The types of presentation modes can be changed or added as appropriate.

4-2. Special chart change performance Next, the special chart change performance (also simply called "change performance") will be explained. When the pachinko game machine PY1 starts the variable display of the special chart, it executes the special chart change performance based on the special chart change pattern related to the variable display of the special chart and the special chart lottery result (the jackpot determination result, the jackpot pattern type determination result, the reach determination result, and the special chart change pattern determination result). In the special chart change performance (one example of the notification performance), the display unit 50a displays the change of the performance pattern superimposed on a predetermined background image. In the change display of the performance pattern, the performance pattern stops after changing. That is, after the special chart change time and the change display of the performance pattern are performed, the change stops and the stop display of the performance pattern is performed. Then, the result of the special chart lottery is notified by the stop display of the performance pattern.

In addition to the display of the changing special symbols, other effects can be performed using various devices such as the image display device 50, speaker 52, frame lamp 53, board lamp 54, movable devices 55, 56, 58, normal button 40, and special button 41. In this case, other effects can be continued even after the display of the stopped symbols.

4-2-1. Display area of the effect pattern As shown in FIG. 19(A), the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 can be provided with a left effect pattern area 50b1, a middle effect pattern area 50b2, and a right effect pattern area 50b3 on the left side, the center, and the right side of the display unit 50a, which are divided horizontally into three approximately equal parts. The left effect pattern area 50b1 is an area that displays the left effect pattern EZ1 when the effect pattern is stopped in the special pattern change effect. Similarly, the middle effect pattern area 50b2 and the right effect pattern area 50b3 are areas that display the middle effect pattern EZ2 and the right effect pattern EZ3.

As shown in FIG. 19(A), a small pattern area 50c can be provided in one section at the left end (upper left corner) of the upper end of the display unit 50a. The small pattern area 50c is an area that variably displays the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 when the special pattern is being variably displayed.

In FIG. 19(A), the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, the right performance pattern area 50b3, and the small pattern area 50c are indicated by two-dot chain lines, but this is written to indicate the range of the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, the right performance pattern area 50b3, and the small pattern area 50c, and is not actually displayed. In addition, the range of each area can be changed as appropriate. In addition, not only the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 (left performance pattern EZ1, middle performance pattern EZ2, and right performance pattern EZ3), but also the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are examples of "performance patterns" because they are patterns displayed on the display unit 50a for performance. In addition, the performance patterns are also called decorative patterns or ornamental patterns.

4-2-2. Normal Variation In the special chart variation presentation, the pachinko game machine PY1 can first perform normal variation. The normal variation functions as a presentation that suggests that the variable display of the special chart has started.

When the variable display of the special chart is started, for example, as shown in Figure 19 (A), on the display unit 50a, the left performance pattern EZ1, the middle performance pattern EZ2 and the right performance pattern EZ3 are displayed frozen, while the left small pattern KZ1, the middle small pattern KZ2 and the right small pattern KZ3 are displayed frozen, and the variable display of the special chart is not being performed and the state is waiting for the variable display of the special chart.As shown in Figure 19 (B), with the start of the variable display of the special chart, the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2 and EZ3 is started, and the variable display of the small patterns KZ1, KZ2 and KZ3 is started. And, when the special pattern change pattern of the variable display of the special pattern is, for example, "normal miss change", as shown in Fig. 19 (C-1), the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 temporarily stop in different stop modes, and then, as shown in Fig. 19 (D), the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 stop in a stop mode suggesting a miss (so-called spread eyes). At this time, the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 also stop all at once in a stop mode suggesting a miss. On the other hand, when the special pattern change pattern of the variable display of the special pattern is, for example, a special pattern change pattern with a reach such as "N miss change", as shown in Fig. 19 (C-2), the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 temporarily stop in the same stop mode, and a reach is established. In detail, first the left performance pattern EZ1 stops on a certain pattern (for example, 5), then the right performance pattern EZ3 stops on the same pattern as the left performance pattern EZ1 (5), and a reach is established. At this time, the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 continue to be displayed, and a reach performance is performed according to the special pattern change pattern. The stopping order and stopping mode of the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 can be changed as appropriate.

4-2-3. N Reach The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform N Reach when a reach is achieved in normal variation. N Reach is a presentation that suggests that the result of the jackpot determination may be a "jackpot" and functions as a presentation to make the player expect a jackpot.

In the N reach, as shown in FIG. 20(A), the reach is maintained for a predetermined time, and as shown in FIG. 20(B), the speed of change of the middle performance pattern EZ2 gradually slows down. Then, when the special pattern change pattern of the variable display of the special pattern is, for example, "N miss change", the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed stopped in a stop mode (so-called barrage) that suggests a miss, as shown in FIG. 20(C-1). At this time, the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a stop mode that suggests a miss. On the other hand, when the special pattern change pattern of the variable display of the special pattern is, for example, "N jackpot change", as shown in FIG. 20(C-2), the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped in a stop mode (so-called double numbers) that suggests a jackpot. At this time, the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a stop mode that suggests a jackpot. In addition, the content of the N Reach effect is not limited to the middle effect pattern EZ2 gradually slowing down, and can be changed or added as appropriate.

In addition, with regard to the stopping mode of the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that indicate a miss, the spread when the reach is not established is called a "non-reach spread" or a "non-reach miss" and the spread when the reach is established is called a "reach spread" or a "reach miss". The combination of each of the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that make up the non-reach spread (for example, "2, 3, 1" or "5, 8, 6") and the combination of each of the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that make up the reach spread (for example, "2, 1, 2" or "5, 4, 5") are selected by the performance control microcomputer 121. In addition, the combination of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that make up the stopping pattern (double number) that indicates a jackpot (for example, "2-2-2" or "7-7-7") is selected by the effect control microcomputer 121 based on the type of jackpot symbol that has been selected.

The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform an SP reach after an N reach. The SP reach is a presentation that suggests that the result of the jackpot determination is more likely to be a "jackpot" than the N reach, and functions as a presentation to make the player expect a jackpot.

In the SP reach, after the N reach, for example, as shown in FIG. 21(A), a background image dedicated to the SP reach (background image G113 for the SP reach) is displayed on the display unit 50a, and an image indicating that the SP reach has started (title image G1 for the start of the SP reach) is displayed in the center of the display unit 50a. After that, as shown in FIG. 21(B), a performance dedicated to the SP reach (for example, a battle performance) is performed. Then, when the special chart change pattern of the variable display of the special chart is, for example, "SP jackpot change", a performance suggesting a jackpot (for example, a display in which the main character (one of the ally characters) has won the battle and is standing with his/her arms crossed) is performed on the display unit 50a, as shown in FIG. 21(C-1), and the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a stopped state (so-called double numbers) suggesting a jackpot. At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a manner that suggests a big win. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pattern of the variable display of the special symbol is, for example, "SP miss variation," then as shown in FIG. 21 (C-2), a performance that suggests a miss (for example, a display of an enemy character standing with its arms crossed after winning a battle) is performed, and the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed stopped in a manner that suggests a miss (so-called barake eyes). At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a manner that suggests a miss. Note that the performance content of the SP reach can be changed or added as appropriate.

Here, we will explain in detail the possibility that the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 for each reach will stop in a manner indicating a jackpot (jackpot expectation). The jackpot expectation for each reach is determined by the execution probability based on the result of the jackpot determination. For example, if the execution probability of a variation that ends in an N reach is set to 10% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "miss" and 50% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "jackpot," and the execution probability of a variation that develops into an SP reach is set to 4% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "miss" and 50% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "jackpot," then it is possible to set the jackpot expectation for an SP reach higher than that for an N reach. Furthermore, by making SP reach A and SP reach B executable as SP reaches, and setting the execution probability of SP reach A to 2% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "miss" and 30% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "jackpot", and setting the execution probability of SP reach B to 2% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "miss" and 20% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "jackpot", it is possible to set the jackpot expectation of SP reach A higher than the jackpot expectation of SP reach B. In this way, it is possible to set the jackpot expectation by appropriately setting the execution probability according to the result of the jackpot determination.

4-2-5. L Reach The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform an L reach after an N reach. The L reach is a performance that suggests that the possibility that the result of the special chart lottery was a "jackpot" is lower than that of the SP reach but higher than that of the N reach, and functions as a performance that makes the player expect a jackpot. The execution time of the reach performance of the L reach is shorter than that of the reach performance of the SP reach (FIGS. 13 and 14). Therefore, in the reach performance of the L reach, for example, a video shorter than that of the reach performance of the SP reach is displayed on the display unit 50a. The content of the reach performance of the L reach can be changed as appropriate. In addition, a special chart variation pattern in which the reach performance of the SP reach is executed in a developed manner after the reach performance of the L reach may be provided.

4-3. Hold icon display area The display unit 50a of the image display device 50 can be provided with a hold icon display area 50d consisting of four display areas, as shown in FIG. 22 (A). The hold icon display area 50d is composed of a first display area 50d1, a second display area 50d2, a third display area 50d3, and a fourth display area 50d4, and the hold icon HA can be displayed in each display area 50d1, 50d2, 50d3, and 50d4 according to the number of reserved special figures 1 or the number of reserved special figures 2. For example, when the number of reserved special figures 1 is "1", the hold icon HA is displayed in the first display area 50d1, and when the number of reserved special figures 1 is "2", the hold icon HA is displayed in the first display area 50d1 and the second display area 50d2.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 22(A), it is possible to provide an icon display area 50e consisting of a single display area near the reserved icon display area 50d. The icon display area 50e is capable of displaying the icon TA (also called the reserved icon TA) that is the same as the reserved icon HA in response to the start of the special chart change performance. Note that an icon different from the reserved icon HA may be displayed as the icon TA.

The number of display areas constituting the reserved icon display area 50d can be changed as appropriate. The reserved icon display area 50d can be a display area that displays both the reserved number of special chart 1 and the reserved number of special chart 2, or a display area that displays only one of them. It is also possible to provide the reserved icon display area 50d but not the icon display area 50e, or to provide neither.

4-3-1. Hold performance The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform a hold performance in response to the game ball entering the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12. The hold performance can notify the player of the number of special chart 1 holds or special chart 2 holds.

In the reserved performance, when the number of reserved special chart 1 is "0" and a game ball enters the first starting hole 11, the special chart change performance starts, and the icon TA is displayed in the icon display area 50e, for example, as shown in FIG. 22(B). Then, when two more game balls enter the first starting hole 11 during the special chart change performance, the reserved icon HA is displayed in the first display area 50d1 and the second display area 50d2 of the reserved icon display area 50d, as shown in FIG. 22(C), and the player is notified that the number of reserved special chart 1 is "2". After that, when the special chart change performance ends and a new special chart change performance starts, as shown in FIG. 22(D), the reserved icon HA displayed in the first display area 50d1 of the reserved icon display area 50d moves to the icon display area 50e and is displayed as the icon TA, and the reserved icon HA displayed in the second display area 50d2 of the reserved icon display area 50d moves to the first display area 50d1 and is displayed, and the player is notified that the number of reserved special charts 1 is "1".

The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform a notice performance at any timing during the special chart change performance. The notice performance is a performance using the image display device 50, the speaker 52, the frame lamp 53, the board lamp 54, the movable devices 55, 56, 58, the input device (the normal button 40, the special button 41), etc., and can suggest the result of the jackpot determination or the result of the special chart change pattern determination.

The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform a movable body effect as a preview effect using the movable devices 55, 56, and 58. The movable body effect is an effect in which the movable devices 55, 56, and 58 are operated, and functions as an effect that makes the player expect a big win.

In the movable body performance, for example, when the N reach develops into the SP reach, as shown in FIG. 23(A), the movable device on the board 55 and the movable device below the board 56 are operated, and the movable body on the board 55k and the movable body below the board 56k move so as to overlap on the display unit 50a, suggesting the development into the SP reach. At this time, an effect image is displayed in the space on the display unit 50a that does not overlap with the movable body on the board 55k and the movable body below the board 56k. After that, as shown in FIG. 23(B), the movable body on the board 55k and the movable body below the board 56k return to the normal standby state (initial position) and develop into the SP reach. This movable body performance is an example of a development performance. Note that the movable body performance is not limited to the suggestion of development into the SP reach, and can be changed or added as appropriate. In addition, the operation contents of the movable device in the movable body performance can be changed or added as appropriate. In addition, the movable device operated in the movable body performance can be changed as appropriate. Also, if the performance does not progress (for example, in the case of an N miss variation), it is possible to perform a moving body performance as a so-called false performance. A moving body performance is also called a moving body drive performance.

The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform an operation performance as a preview performance using the normal button 40 or the special button 41. The operation performance is a performance that makes the player operate the normal button 40 or the special button 41, and functions as a performance that makes the player expect a big win.

In the operation presentation, for example, in the SP reach, a period (operation valid period) occurs during which the pressing operation of the input device (special button 41) is valid, and with the occurrence of this operation valid period, a presentation (operation promotion presentation) is performed to encourage the operation of the special button 41, as shown in FIG. 24 (A). In the operation promotion presentation, an operation promotion image G30 is displayed on the display unit 50a. The operation promotion image G30 includes an image (special button image G31) that imitates the special button 41, an image (operation method instruction image G32) that shows the operation method of the special button 41 (i.e., pressing operation), and an image (valid period image G33) that shows the remaining time of the operation valid period. The valid period image G33 is generally composed of a curved progress bar, and changes over time so that the player can easily understand the remaining time of the operation valid period. Thereafter, in response to the special button 41 being pressed during the valid operation period, or after the valid operation period has elapsed without the special button 41 being operated during the valid operation period, the on-board movable device 55 is activated as shown in FIG. 24(B), and the on-board movable body 55k moves to overlap the display unit 50a, indicating the likelihood of a big win. Note that the operation presentation is not limited to the operation of the on-board movable device 55, and can be changed or added as appropriate. Also, the operation promotion presentation that encourages the operation of the operation means (operation unit) such as the special button 41 or the normal button 40 is also referred to as an operation instruction presentation.

4-4-3. Pre-reading performance The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform a pre-reading performance for the special chart 1 reserve or the special chart 2 reserve for which the special chart lottery has not been performed as a notice performance. The pre-reading performance functions as a performance to suggest in advance the lottery result of the special chart lottery for the special chart 1 reserve or the special chart 2 reserve.

In the pre-reading performance, for example, if the result of the pre-reading judgment for the special chart 1 reservation is a "jackpot", the reservation icon HA, which is usually displayed as a "circle" in the reservation icon display area 50d, may be displayed as a "☆" as shown in FIG. 22 (C). Also, if the result of the pre-reading judgment is a "miss", the reservation icon HA may be displayed as a "☆" as a so-called false performance. In this way, the pre-reading performance in which the reservation icon HA or the icon TA is displayed in a special mode (for example, "☆" in this embodiment, also called a special display mode) rather than in a normal mode (in this embodiment, "circle", also called a normal display mode) is called a reservation change performance or a reservation display change performance. Also, the reservation icon HA and the icon TA are collectively called a reservation display or a specified icon. In this embodiment, the reservation icon HA and the icon TA are displayed as a reservation display, but it is also possible to configure it so that only the reservation icon HA is displayed and the icon TA is not displayed. In addition, the timing for the special mode of the hold display in the hold change performance may be when the start winning occurs, which triggers the hold display, or when the hold display shifts (when the display area of the hold icon HA is changed), or when the special chart change (the so-called change in question) corresponding to the hold display is in progress (when it is displayed as the icon TA). Also, there may be multiple types of special modes of the hold display.

Note that the look-ahead effect can be performed on both or either of the special chart 1 reserve and the special chart 2 reserve. Furthermore, the look-ahead effect is not limited to a change in the display mode of the reserve icon HA, but can be changed or added as appropriate. Examples of look-ahead effects other than the reserve change effect include so-called continuous previews.

5. Game control by the game control microcomputer 101 Next, the game control by the game control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to Figures 25 to 26. Note that counters, timers, buffers, etc. that appear in the game control by the game control microcomputer 101 described below are provided in the game RAM 104.

[1. Main control main processing]
When the power of the pachinko game machine PY1 is turned on, the game control microcomputer 101 provided on the main control board 100 reads out the main control main processing program shown in Fig. 25 from the game ROM 103 and executes it. As shown in the figure, the main control main processing first performs power-on processing (S001). In the power-on processing, permission settings for access to the game RAM 104, settings for the game CPU 102, settings for the SIO, PIO, and CTC (circuit for managing interrupt time), etc. are performed.

In addition, in the power-on process (S001), when the game control microcomputer 101 receives a signal based on pressing the RAM clear switch 191, it executes a RAM clear. When a RAM clear is executed, the game information stored in the game RAM 104 (for example, game state information such as a high probability state, the number of reserved special figures, the result of the jackpot determination, etc.) is erased. This sets the game state to a normal game state (low probability low base state, low probability non-time-saving state). However, even if a RAM clear is executed, the information on the total number of prize balls stored in the total number of prize balls memory unit 107a, the information on the total number of shot balls stored in the total number of shot balls memory unit 107b, and the information on the difference in the number of balls stored in the difference in the number of balls memory unit 107c are not cleared.

Following the power-on process, interrupts are prohibited (S002), and the normal and special symbol main random number update process (S003) is executed. In this normal and special symbol main random number update process (S003), the counter values of the various random numbers shown in Figures 10 (A) and 10 (B) are updated by incrementing them by 1. When the counter value of each random number reaches its upper limit, it returns to "0" and is incremented again. Note that the initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0", and may be changed randomly. Also, at least a portion of each random number may be so-called hardware random numbers that are generated using a known random number generation circuit consisting of a counter IC or the like.

When the normal and special symbols main random number update process (S003) is completed, an interrupt is permitted (S004). While the interrupt is permitted, the main timer interrupt process (S005) can be executed. The main timer interrupt process (S005) is executed based on an interrupt pulse repeatedly input to the gaming CPU 102, for example, at a 4 msec cycle. That is, the main timer interrupt process (S005) is executed at a 4 msec cycle. Then, between the end of the main timer interrupt process (S005) and the start of the next main timer interrupt process (S005), the update process of the counter values of various random numbers by the normal and special symbols main random number update process (S003) is repeatedly executed. Note that if an interrupt pulse is input to the gaming CPU 102 when the interrupt is prohibited, the main timer interrupt process (S005) is not started immediately, but is started after the interrupt is permitted (S004).

[2. Main side timer interrupt processing]
Next, the main timer interrupt process (S005) will be described. As shown in Fig. 26, in the main timer interrupt process (S005), first, input process (S102) is executed. In the input process (S102), the game control microcomputer 101 takes in, for example, a detection signal from a lower tray full switch that detects whether the lower tray 35 is full, and stores it in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 as lower tray full data.

The normal and special symbol main random number update process (S103) that is performed next is the same as the normal and special symbol main random number update process (S003) that is performed in the main control main process of FIG. 25. That is, the update process of the counter values of the various random numbers shown in FIG. 10 (A) and FIG. 10 (B) is performed both during the execution period of the main side timer interrupt process (S005) and during other periods (the period from the end of the main side timer interrupt process (S005) until the start of the next main side timer interrupt process (S005)).

Following the normal and special symbol main random number update process (S103), the game control microcomputer 101 performs a sensor detection process (S104), then a normal action process (S105), and then a special action process (S107). The sensor detection process, normal action process, and special action process will be described later.

Following the special operation process (S107), a sorting device control process (S108) is performed to control the sorting device 16D. The sorting device 16D is operated when a special game using the second large prize device 15D is played. However, the sorting device 16D may be operated in a constant manner from the time the power is turned on.

Next, the gaming control microcomputer 101 executes an output process (S112). In the output process (S112), the commands and other information set in the output buffer provided in the gaming RAM 104 of the main control board 100 in each of the above processes are output to the sub-control board 120, the payout control board 170, etc.

Then, the game control microcomputer 101 executes other processes (S113) and ends the main timer interrupt process (S005). Other processes (S113) include power off monitoring process when the power is turned off and updating the timer provided in the game RAM 104. Another other process (S113) is a payout control process that pays out prize balls to the player. In the payout control process, a prize ball request signal is sent to the payout control board 170 in response to the entry of game balls into each winning slot. In other words, the payout control board 170 pays out prize balls based on the prize ball request signal.

Then, the gaming control microcomputer 101 repeatedly executes steps S002 to S004 of the main control main process (see FIG. 25) until the next interrupt pulse is input to the gaming CPU 102, and when the interrupt pulse is input (approximately 4 msec later), it again executes the main timer interrupt process (S005).

[2-1. Sensor detection process]
In the sensor detection process (S104), the general winning hole sensor process, the gate sensor process, the second starting hole sensor process, the first starting hole sensor process, the first large winning hole sensor process, the second large winning hole sensor process, the specific area sensor process, and the outlet sensor process are sequentially performed. Then, the commands generated in each process are set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104.

In the general prize opening sensor process, it is determined whether or not a game ball has been detected by the general prize opening sensor 10a. In addition, a command for the general prize opening sensor is generated depending on the results of this process.

In the gate sensor process, it is determined whether or not a gaming ball has been detected by the gate sensor 13a. If it is determined that a gaming ball has been detected, the normal pattern random number indicated by the counter value of the normal pattern random number counter is obtained, and the obtained normal pattern random number is stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106 provided in the gaming RAM 104. Note that if a predetermined number of normal pattern random numbers (e.g., four) are stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106, the newly obtained normal pattern random number is not stored. In addition, a command for the gate sensor is generated depending on the result of this process.

In the second start hole sensor process, it is determined whether or not a game ball has been detected by the second start hole sensor 12a. When it is determined that a game ball has been detected, a special pattern 2 related random number consisting of a special pattern random number counter, a pattern type random number counter, a reach random number counter, and a special pattern change pattern random number counter is acquired, and the acquired special pattern 2 related random number is stored in the special pattern 2 reserved memory unit 105b provided in the gaming RAM 104. The special pattern 2 reserved memory unit 105b has multiple storage areas from the first area to the nth area (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2, for example, "4"), and the acquired special pattern 2 related random numbers are stored in order from the first area. Note that if special pattern 2 related random numbers are stored up to the nth area, the newly acquired special pattern 2 related random number is not stored. In addition, a second look-ahead judgment is performed using the acquired special pattern 2 related random number and the second look-ahead judgment table. In addition, depending on the result of the processing, a command for the second start port sensor is generated, which includes a special chart 2 reserved number command representing the number of special chart 2 related random numbers (special chart 2 reserved number) stored in the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b and a second start winning command representing the result of the second look-ahead judgment.

In the first start hole sensor process, it is determined whether or not a game ball has been detected by the first start hole sensor 11a. When it is determined that a game ball has been detected, a special pattern 1 related random number consisting of a special pattern random number counter, a pattern type random number counter, a reach random number counter, and a special pattern variation pattern random number counter is acquired, and the acquired special pattern 1 related random number is stored in the special pattern 1 reserved memory unit 105a provided in the gaming RAM 104. The special pattern 1 reserved memory unit 105a has multiple storage areas from the first area to the nth area (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2, for example, "4"), and the acquired special pattern 1 related random numbers are stored in order from the first area. Note that if the special pattern 1 related random numbers are stored up to the nth area, the newly acquired special pattern 1 related random number is not stored. In addition, a first look-ahead judgment is performed using the acquired special pattern 1 related random number and the first look-ahead judgment table. In addition, depending on the result of the processing, a command for the first start port sensor is generated, which includes a special chart 1 reserved number command representing the number of special chart 1 related random numbers (special chart 1 reserved number) stored in the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a and a first start winning command representing the result of the first pre-reading judgment.

In the first large prize opening sensor process, it is determined whether or not a game ball has been detected by the first large prize opening sensor 14a. In addition, a command for the first large prize opening sensor is generated according to the results of this process.

In the second large prize opening sensor process, it is determined whether or not a game ball has been detected by the second large prize opening sensor 15a. In addition, a command for the second large prize opening sensor is generated according to the results of this process.

In the specific area sensor process, it is determined whether or not a gaming ball has been detected by the specific area sensor 16a. In addition, a command for the specific area sensor is generated depending on the result of this process.

The outlet sensor process determines whether or not a game ball has been detected by the outlet sensor.

[2-2. Normal Operation Processing]
In the normal operation process (S105), a normal symbol waiting process, a normal symbol variation process, a normal symbol determination process, and an auxiliary game control process are sequentially performed. Then, the commands generated in each process are set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104.

The normal pattern standby process is a process that is performed during standby when the variable display of the normal pattern and auxiliary play are not being performed. In the normal pattern standby process, a win determination is made based on the normal pattern random number stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106. In addition, a normal pattern change pattern is determined by making a normal pattern change pattern determination based on the current game state. Then, a normal pattern change start command is generated that includes information regarding the results of the win determination and the normal pattern change pattern. Then, the normal pattern display unit 82 is caused to start variable display of the normal pattern based on the normal pattern change time associated with the determined normal pattern change pattern.

The normal pattern change process is a process that is performed during the variable display of the normal map. In the normal pattern change process, the normal map is stopped based on the hit determination result as the normal map change time elapses from the start of the variable display of the normal map being executed. Then, a normal map change stop command is generated, which indicates the end of the variable display of the normal map.

The normal symbol determination process is a process that is performed when a normal symbol is displayed stationary. In the normal symbol determination process, a determination is made as to whether or not the normal symbol displayed stationary is a winning symbol when a predetermined stop time (e.g., 0.8 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the stationary display of the ongoing normal symbol. If a winning symbol is displayed stationary, an auxiliary game is started based on the current game state and the auxiliary game control table, and an auxiliary game start command is generated to indicate the start of the auxiliary game.

The auxiliary game control process is a process that is performed when an auxiliary game is being played. In the auxiliary game control process, the auxiliary game is controlled based on the current game state and the auxiliary game control table. In addition, a command for controlling the auxiliary game is generated according to the result of the process.

[2-3. Special Action Processing]
In the special operation process (S107), a special symbol waiting process, a special symbol variation process, a special symbol determination process, a big win game control process, and a game state setting process are sequentially performed. Then, the commands generated in each process are set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104.

[2-3-1. Special symbol waiting process]
The special symbol standby process is a process that is performed during standby when the special symbol is not being displayed variably, not in a jackpot game state. In the special symbol standby process, a special symbol 2 determination process and a special symbol 2 change pattern determination process are performed based on the special symbol 2 related random number stored in the special symbol 2 reserved memory unit 105b, and a special symbol 2 reserved memory unit shift process is performed. In addition, a special symbol 1 determination process and a special symbol 1 change pattern determination process are performed based on the special symbol 1 related random number stored in the special symbol 1 reserved memory unit 105a, and a special symbol 1 reserved memory unit shift process is performed.

In the special chart 2 determination process, a jackpot determination is performed to determine whether the result is a jackpot or a miss, using the special pattern random number among the special chart 2 related random numbers stored in the first area of the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b and a jackpot determination table corresponding to the current game state. If the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, a jackpot pattern type determination is performed to determine the type of the jackpot pattern, using the pattern type random number among the special chart 2 related random numbers and the special chart 2 jackpot pattern type determination table. Then, a pattern designation command is generated that indicates the determined jackpot pattern type. Also, if the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, a pattern designation command that indicates a miss is generated. Note that multiple types of misses may be provided, and if the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, the type of the miss pattern may be determined. In this case, the pattern designation command may include information indicating the type of the miss pattern.

The special chart 2 variation pattern determination process is a process performed after the special chart 2 determination process. In the special chart 2 variation pattern determination process, the special chart 2 variation pattern is determined using the special chart variation pattern random number among the special chart 2 related random numbers stored in the first area of the special chart 2 reservation storage unit 105b and the special chart 2 variation pattern determination table according to the current game state. In the special chart 2 variation pattern determination process when the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, a reach determination is made, and the special chart 2 variation pattern is determined according to the result of the reach determination. In addition, the determination of the special chart 2 variation pattern is also associated with the number of special chart 2 related random numbers (special chart 2 reservation number) stored in the special chart 2 reservation storage unit 105b. Then, a special chart 2 variation start command representing the determined special chart 2 variation pattern is generated. The special chart 2 variation start command includes information that it is a special chart 2, information about the result of the jackpot determination, information about the result of the jackpot pattern type determination, information about the result of the reach determination, information about the special chart variation time associated with the special chart 2 variation pattern, and the like. Then, the special chart 2 display 81b starts to display the special chart 2 in a variable manner based on the special chart change time associated with the determined special chart 2 change pattern.

The special chart 2 reserved memory unit shift process is a process that is performed when the special chart 2 determination process and the special chart 2 variation pattern determination process are performed. In the special chart 2 reserved memory unit shift process, the special chart 2 related random numbers stored in the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b are shifted by one to the first area side, and the special chart 2 related random numbers in the first area are cleared from the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b. In this way, the special chart 2 related random numbers are consumed in the order in which they were obtained. Then, a special chart 2 reserved number command is generated that represents the special chart 2 reserved number after the process.

In the special chart 1 determination process, a jackpot determination is performed to determine whether the jackpot is a jackpot or a miss, using the special pattern random number among the special chart 1 related random numbers stored in the first area of the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a and a jackpot determination table according to the current game state. If the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, a jackpot pattern type determination is performed to determine the type of the jackpot pattern, using the pattern type random number among the special chart 1 related random numbers and the special chart 1 jackpot pattern type determination table. Then, a pattern designation command is generated to indicate the determined jackpot pattern type. If the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, a pattern designation command indicating a miss is generated. Note that multiple types of misses may be provided, and if the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, the type of the miss pattern may be determined. In this case, the pattern designation command may include information indicating the type of the miss pattern.

The special chart 1 variation pattern determination process is a process performed after the special chart 1 determination process. In the special chart 1 variation pattern determination process, the special chart 1 variation pattern is determined using the special chart variation pattern random number among the special chart 1 related random numbers stored in the first area of the special chart 1 reservation storage unit 105a and the special chart 1 variation pattern determination table according to the current game state. In the special chart 1 variation pattern determination process when the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, a reach determination is made, and the special chart 1 variation pattern is determined according to the result of the reach determination. In addition, the determination of the special chart 1 variation pattern is also associated with the number of special chart 1 related random numbers (special chart 1 reservation number) stored in the special chart 1 reservation storage unit 105a. Then, a special chart 1 variation start command representing the determined special chart 1 variation pattern is generated. The special chart 1 variation start command includes information regarding the special chart 1, information regarding the result of the jackpot determination, information regarding the result of the jackpot pattern type determination, information regarding the result of the reach determination, information regarding the special chart variation time associated with the special chart 1 variation pattern, and the like. Then, the special chart 1 display 81a starts to display the special chart 1 in a variable manner based on the special chart change time associated with the determined special chart 1 change pattern.

The special chart 1 reserved memory unit shift process is a process that is performed when the special chart 1 determination process and the special chart 1 variation pattern determination process are performed. In the special chart 1 reserved memory unit shift process, the special chart 1 related random numbers stored in the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a are shifted by one to the first area side, and the special chart 1 related random numbers in the first area are cleared from the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a. In this way, the special chart 1 related random numbers are consumed in the order in which they were obtained. Then, a special chart 1 reserved number command is generated that represents the special chart 1 reserved number after the process.

When both the number of reserved special charts 2 and the number of reserved special charts 1 are present, the special chart 2 determination process is performed with priority, and the variable display of special chart 2 and the variable display of special chart 1 are not performed in parallel. In other words, when there is a reserved special chart 2, the game control microcomputer 101 will not perform the special chart 1 determination process even if there is a reserved special chart 1. The variable display of special chart 2 and the variable display of special chart 1 may be configured to be performed in the order of winning, or to be performed simultaneously.

[2-3-2. Special symbol variation processing]
The special symbol variation process is a process performed during the variable display of the special symbol. In the special symbol variation process, as the special symbol variation time elapses, the special symbol display device 81 ends the variable display of the special symbol and stops displaying the special symbol according to the result of the jackpot determination. If the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, the jackpot symbol indicating the jackpot is stopped and displayed, and if the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, the miss symbol indicating a miss is stopped and displayed. Then, a special symbol variation stop command indicating the end of the variable display of the special symbol is generated.

[2-3-3. Special symbol determination process]
The special pattern determination process is a process performed when the special pattern is stopped. In the special pattern determination process, if the currently stopped special pattern is a jackpot pattern, the game is transitioned to a jackpot game state. Then, an opening command indicating the start of a jackpot game is generated. The opening command includes information regarding the result of the jackpot pattern type determination. If the currently stopped special pattern is a losing pattern and the high probability state is to be terminated, a normal probability state is set. Then, a high probability end command indicating a transition to a normal probability state is generated. If the currently stopped special pattern is a losing pattern and the time-saving state is to be terminated, a non-time-saving state is set. Then, a time-saving end command indicating a transition to a non-time-saving state is generated. Note that if the currently stopped special pattern is a losing pattern and the number of reserved special patterns 2 and the number of reserved special patterns 1 are "0", a customer waiting command indicating that the pachinko game machine PY1 is in a standby state is generated.

[2-3-4. Jackpot game control process]
The jackpot game control process is a process carried out in the jackpot game state. In the jackpot game control process, a jackpot game is played according to a jackpot game control table. After transition to the jackpot game state, each round of play is started according to the passage of the opening time or closing time. Then, a round game command indicating the start of the round game is generated. Also, an ending is started according to the end of the final round game. Then, an ending command indicating the end of the jackpot game is generated. The ending command includes information regarding the result of the jackpot symbol type determination.

[2-3-5. Game status setting process]
The game state setting process is a process performed when the jackpot game state ends. In the game state setting process, when changing from a normal probability state to a high probability state, the high probability state is set when the jackpot game state ends. When limiting the duration of the high probability state, the duration of the high probability state (for example, the number of times the special chart can be displayed in a variable manner in which the high probability state can continue without winning a jackpot) is also set. Then, a high probability setting command is generated that indicates the setting of the high probability state. Also, when changing from a non-time-saving state to a time-saving state, the time-saving state is set when the jackpot game state ends. When limiting the duration of the time-saving state, the duration of the time-saving state (for example, the number of times the special chart can be displayed in a variable manner in which the time-saving state can continue without winning a jackpot) is also set. Then, a time-saving setting command is generated that indicates the setting of the time-saving state.

The commands generated by the game control microcomputer 101 in each process can be added or modified as appropriate.

6. Control of performance by performance control microcomputer 121 Next, the control of performance by performance control microcomputer 121 will be described with reference to Figures 27 to 29. Note that counters, timers, flags, buffers, etc. that appear in the following description of the control of performance by performance control microcomputer 121 are provided in performance RAM 124.

[1. Sub-control main processing]
When the power of the pachinko game machine PY1 is turned on, the performance control microcomputer 121 provided on the sub-control board 120 reads out the program of the sub-control main process shown in Fig. 27 from the performance ROM 123 and executes it. As shown in the figure, the sub-control main process first performs power-on processing in response to power-on (S4001). In the power-on processing, for example, the settings of the performance CPU 122, the SIO, PIO, CTC (circuit for managing interrupt time), etc. are performed.

Next, interrupts are prohibited (S4002), and a random number update process is executed (S4003). In the random number update process (S4003), the values of various random number counters for determining various effects are updated to make decisions regarding various effects. As an example, the method of updating the random number counters for determining various effects can be the same as the random number update process performed by the main control board 100 described above. When updating, the random number values may be added by 2 instead of by 1. This is also the same as in the random number update process performed by the main control board 100 described above.

When the random number update process is completed, a command transmission process is executed (S4004). In the command transmission process, various commands stored in the output buffer in the performance RAM 124 of the sub-control board 120 are transmitted to the image control board 140. The image control board 140 that receives the command displays an image on the display unit 50a according to the received command (executes various performances using images). In addition to the various performances performed by the image control board 140, the sub-control board 120 outputs sound from the speaker 52 via the sound control circuit 161 (executes various sound performances using sound), causes the frame lamp 53 and the board lamp 54 to emit light via the lamp control circuit 151 (executes various light-emitting performances using light), and operates the movable devices 55, 56, and 58 (executes various movable body performances using operations). In this way, various performances (special chart change performances, reserved performances, operation performances, pre-reading performances, other advance notice performances, big win game performances, customer waiting performances, control of performance modes, etc.) are realized.

The performance control microcomputer 121 then permits interrupts (S4005). Thereafter, steps S4002 to S4005 are looped. While interrupts are permitted, it becomes possible to execute reception interrupt processing (S4010), 1 ms timer interrupt processing (S4011), and 10 ms timer interrupt processing (S4012).

The reception interrupt process (S4010) is executed each time various commands sent from the main control board 100 are input to the performance control microcomputer 121. In the reception interrupt process (S4010), the performance control microcomputer 121 stores the various commands sent and received by the output process (S112) of the main control board 100 in the reception buffer of the performance RAM 124. This reception interrupt process is executed with priority over other interrupt processes (S4011, S4012).

[2.1 ms timer interrupt processing]
The 1 ms timer interrupt process (S4011) is executed every time an interrupt pulse with a 1 msec period is input to the sub-control board 120. In the 1 ms timer interrupt process (S4011), as shown in Fig. 28, an input process (S4101), a light emission data output process (S4102), a movable device control process (S4103), and a watchdog timer process (S4104) are sequentially performed.

In the input process, the operation of the operation unit that can be operated by the player, such as the normal button detection switch 40a and the special button detection switch 41a, is detected, and commands are set and performance data is created according to the detection result. In the light emission data output process, based on the performance data created in the input process or the performance data creation process described later, the light emission data is output to the lamp control circuit 151 to make lamps such as the frame lamp 53 and the board lamp 54 light up at a timing that matches the performance by the image, etc. In other words, the performance control microcomputer 121 makes the frame lamp 53 and the board lamp 54 light up in a predetermined light emission mode according to the light emission data. In the movable device control process, the drive data is output to perform a movable body performance that operates the movable devices 55, 56, 58, etc. at a predetermined timing based on the performance data created in the input process or the performance data creation process described later. In other words, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs a movable body performance that operates the movable devices 55, 56, 58, etc. in a predetermined operation mode according to the drive data. The watchdog timer process performs the reset setting for the watchdog timer.

[3. 10 ms timer interrupt processing]
The 10 ms timer interrupt process (S4012) is executed every time an interrupt pulse with a 10 msec period is input to the sub-control board 120. In the 10 ms timer interrupt process (S4012), as shown in Fig. 29, a received command analysis process (S4201), a performance timer update process (S4202), a sound control process (S4203), and a performance data creation process (S4204) are sequentially performed.

In the received command analysis process, the command stored in the receive buffer of the performance RAM 124 by the receive interrupt process (S4010) is analyzed, and processing according to the command (for example, selecting a performance, setting a performance mode, setting a command, etc.) is performed. In the performance timer update process, a timer for measuring the time related to each performance is updated. For example, in the performance timer update process, the start timing and end timing of the effective operation period of the operation parts such as the normal button 40 and the special button 41 are measured. In the audio control process, audio data (data that controls the audio output from the speaker 52) is created and output to the audio control circuit 161 based on the processing results of the input process and the received command analysis process. In the performance data creation process, performance data is created based on the processing results of the received command analysis process.

Here, an example of processing when the performance control microcomputer 121 receives a command from the game control microcomputer 101 will be described. The command received by the performance control microcomputer 121 is a special chart fluctuation start command (special chart 1 fluctuation start command or special chart 2 fluctuation start command). When the performance control microcomputer 121 determines in the received command analysis process (S4201) that it has received a special chart fluctuation start command, it selects a special chart fluctuation performance performance pattern (sub-fluctuation pattern) based on the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the command as a processing at the time of receiving the fluctuation start command, sets information on the sub-fluctuation pattern, and sets a fluctuation performance start command including information on the sub-fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. For example, if the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the special chart fluctuation start command is SP fluctuation (SP big win fluctuation or SP miss fluctuation), it selects a sub-fluctuation pattern that performs SP reach, and sets a fluctuation performance start command corresponding to the sub-fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. After that, each process (command transmission process (S4004), light emission data output process (S4102), movable device control process (S4103), voice control process (S4203), etc.) is executed to realize the special pattern change effect corresponding to the selected sub-change pattern. The process flow for realizing such effects is basically the same for other effects such as big win game effects, customer waiting effects, pre-reading effects, so-called advance notice effects associated with the change, and effects related to normal patterns.

7. Pachinko Game Machine of the First Embodiment 7-1. Configuration of the First Embodiment The following is a detailed explanation of the pachinko game machine PZ1 of the first embodiment, which has a characteristic configuration, focusing on the differences from the pachinko game machine PY1 of the basic form described above. The pachinko game machine PZ1 of the first embodiment is a so-called V-type high probability machine that can control the game state after the end of a jackpot game to a high probability state based on the game ball passing through a specific area 16 in the second large winning port 15 during the jackpot game.

First, we will explain the jackpot game that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine PZ1. When the game control microcomputer 101 of the pachinko gaming machine PZ1 determines that a jackpot has been won in the special chart lottery, it determines the type of jackpot pattern (jackpot pattern 1 to 4) based on the jackpot pattern type determination table shown in Figure 30, and can execute the jackpot game (jackpot game 1 to 4) according to the type of jackpot pattern.

As shown in FIG. 30, the game control microcomputer 101 can determine either "jackpot pattern 1" or "jackpot pattern 2" in the jackpot pattern type determination in the special pattern 1 determination process (special pattern determination process based on winning the first starting hole 11). More specifically, the game control microcomputer 101 determines "jackpot pattern 1" at a rate of 55% and "jackpot pattern 2" at a rate of 45%. Also, the game control microcomputer 101 can determine either "jackpot pattern 3" or "jackpot pattern 4" in the jackpot pattern type determination in the special pattern 2 determination process (special pattern determination process based on winning the second starting hole 12). More specifically, the game control microcomputer 101 determines "jackpot pattern 3" at a rate of 80% and "jackpot pattern 4" at a rate of 20%.

Then, the game control microcomputer 101 executes a jackpot game according to the type of jackpot symbol that has been determined. Specifically, in "jackpot game 1," which is executed when "jackpot symbol 1" has been determined, and in "jackpot game 3," which is executed when "jackpot symbol 3" has been determined, 10 rounds of play are played. Then, from round 1 to round 9, the first jackpot winning hole 14 is opened for a maximum of 29.5 seconds per round, and in round 10, the second jackpot winning hole 15 is opened for a maximum of 29.5 seconds.

In addition, in "jackpot game 2" which is executed when "jackpot pattern 2" is determined, and in "jackpot game 4" which is executed when "jackpot pattern 4" is determined, 10 rounds of play are played. From round 1 to round 9, the first large prize opening 14 is opened for a maximum of 29.5 seconds per round, and in round 10, the second large prize opening 15 is opened for a maximum of 0.1 seconds. In round 10 of jackpot game 2 and jackpot game 4, the opening time of the large prize opening is extremely short, and in reality, winning into the large prize opening is not expected. In other words, the actual number of rounds of play in jackpot game 2 and jackpot game 4 is 9.

Therefore, it can be said that "jackpot game 1" and "jackpot game 3", which have an effective number of rounds of play of 10, are jackpot games that are more advantageous to the player than "jackpot game 2" and "jackpot game 4", which have an effective number of rounds of play of 9, and the jackpot game state in which "jackpot game 1" and "jackpot game 3" are executed is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the jackpot game state in which "jackpot game 2" and "jackpot game 4" are executed.

In this embodiment, if 10 game balls enter the first large prize opening 14 before the opening time of the first large prize opening 14 reaches 29.5 seconds, the first large prize opening 14 is closed, and if 10 game balls enter the second large prize opening 15 before the opening time of the second large prize opening 15 reaches 29.5 seconds, the second large prize opening 15 is closed. In addition, in all of "Big Win Game 1", "Big Win Game 2", "Big Win Game 3", and "Big Win Game 4", the second large prize opening 15 is opened in the 10th round of round play. In "Big Win Game 1" and "Big Win Game 3", when a predetermined number of game balls (e.g., 6 balls) enter the second large prize opening 15, the distribution member 16k changes from the first state to the second state, and the passage of the game balls into the specific area 16 is permitted. The time during which the distribution member 16k is in the second state is sufficient for the game ball to pass through the specific area 16 (for example, about 3000 ms). On the other hand, in "jackpot game 2" and "jackpot game 4", the distribution member 16k does not change from the first state to the second state, and the game ball is not allowed to pass through the specific area 16. In other words, in "jackpot game 1" and "jackpot game 3", the game ball actually passes through the specific area 16, and in "jackpot game 2" and "jackpot game 4", the game ball does not actually pass through the specific area 16 (see FIG. 3). In any jackpot game, the distribution member 16k may be controlled to the second state for an extremely short time (for example, about 1 ms, a time during which the game ball hardly passes through the specific area 16) when a predetermined number of game balls (for example, one ball) enter the 10th round of round play.

Next, the game states that can be controlled by the game control microcomputer 101 will be described. The game control microcomputer 101 sets the game state after a jackpot game to a time-saving state (high base state) regardless of whether a jackpot game of "jackpot game 1", "jackpot game 2", "jackpot game 3", or "jackpot game 4" is executed. Also, if the game ball passes through the specific area 16 in the jackpot game state, it sets the state to a high probability state. As described above, in "jackpot game 1" and "jackpot game 3", the game ball actually passes through the specific area 16, so after the jackpot game state in which one of the jackpot games of "jackpot game 1" and "jackpot game 3" is executed, a high probability state is set. On the other hand, in "jackpot game 2" and "jackpot game 4", the game ball does not actually pass through the specific area 16, so after the jackpot game state in which either the jackpot game "jackpot game 2" or the jackpot game 4" is executed, the high probability state is not set (the normal probability state is set).

In other words, the game control microcomputer 101 controls the game to a high probability high base game state (high probability state and time-saving state) after "jackpot game 1" or "jackpot game 3", and controls the game to a low probability high base game state (normal probability state and time-saving state) after "jackpot game 2" or "jackpot game 4". In this embodiment, the "high probability high base game state" can be continued until the next jackpot game is executed. On the other hand, the "low probability high base game state" can be continued until the number of times the special chart is variable displayed reaches 100 times (a predetermined upper limit number of times).

Therefore, it can be said that "jackpot game 1" or "jackpot game 3", which is scheduled to be set to a high probability state afterwards, is a jackpot game that is more advantageous to the player than "jackpot game 2" or "jackpot game 4", which is not scheduled to be set to a high probability state afterwards. Also, it can be said that the jackpot game state in which "jackpot game 1" or "jackpot game 3" is executed is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the jackpot game state in which "jackpot game 2" or "jackpot game 4" is executed.

The jackpot gaming state can be said to be a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state, regardless of the type of jackpot symbol. Also, the "high probability high base gaming state," which is one of the high probability states, can be said to be a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the "low probability high base gaming state," which is one of the normal probability states. In this specification, a gaming state that is advantageous to the player is also referred to as an advantageous gaming state or advantageous state.

Next, the special chart variation pattern determination for special chart 2 in a high probability high base game state will be explained. When determining the special chart variation pattern for special chart 2 in a high probability high base game state, the game control microcomputer 101 determines the special chart 2 variation pattern using the special chart 2 variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 31.

In the special chart 2 variation pattern determination process when the high probability high base game state is set, the game control microcomputer 101 determines the special chart 2 variation pattern based on the result of the jackpot determination, the result of the jackpot symbol type determination, the result of the reach determination, and the special chart variation pattern random number performed in the special chart 2 determination process. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 31, when the result of the jackpot determination is "jackpot", if the result of the jackpot symbol type determination is "jackpot symbol 3", the game control microcomputer 101 selects "THP001" as the special chart 2 variation pattern at a rate of 55%, "THP002" at a rate of 35%, and "THP003" at a rate of 10%.

In addition, when the result of the jackpot determination is "jackpot," if the result of the jackpot pattern type determination is "jackpot pattern 4," the game control microcomputer 101 selects "THP004" as the special pattern 2 variation pattern with a probability of 15% and selects "THP005" with a probability of 85%.

In addition, when the result of the jackpot determination is not "jackpot" and the result of the reach determination is "reach", the game control microcomputer 101 selects "THP011" at a rate of 10%, "THP012" at a rate of 15%, "THP013" at a rate of 20%, "THP014" at a rate of 35%, and "THP015" at a rate of 20% as the special chart 2 variation pattern.

In addition, when the result of the jackpot determination is not a "jackpot" and the result of the reach determination is "no reach," the game control microcomputer 101 can determine one of two types of special chart 2 variation patterns, "THP021" or "THP022." The number of reserved special charts 2 determines which of these special chart 2 variation patterns is selected.

When the number of reserved special charts 2 is between "0" and "1", "THP021" with a fluctuation time of 13,000 ms is selected 95% of the time, and "THP022" with a fluctuation time of 4,000 ms is selected 5% of the time. Also, when the number of reserved special charts 2 is between "2" and "4", "THP021" with a fluctuation time of 13,000 ms is selected 20% of the time, and "THP022" with a fluctuation time of 4,000 ms is selected 80% of the time. In other words, when the result of the jackpot judgment is "miss" and the result of the reach judgment is "no reach", the smaller the number of reserved special charts 2, the more likely it is that a fluctuation pattern with a longer fluctuation time will be selected.

The allocation rate for each special chart variation pattern can be changed as appropriate. The types of special chart variation patterns can also be increased or decreased as appropriate, as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

Here, all of the special chart 2 variation patterns "THP001" to "THP005" are "jackpot variations" that perform a battle reach (a reach performance in which an ally character and an enemy character battle) as an SP reach. Of these, "THP001" is a "battle attack jackpot variation" in which the reach pattern (the performance pattern that forms the reach) is an ally pattern (an odd-numbered performance pattern including a pedestal part DGM with an ally character drawn on it, see FIG. 33) described below, "THP002" is a "battle defense/counter jackpot variation" in which the reach pattern is a normal enemy pattern (an even-numbered performance pattern including a pedestal part DGT with a normal enemy character drawn on it) described below, and "THP003" is a "battle defense/counter jackpot variation" in which the reach pattern is a strong enemy pattern (an even-numbered performance pattern including a pedestal part DGK with a strong enemy character stronger than a normal enemy character) described below.

These special chart 2 variation patterns are selected when a so-called guaranteed jackpot (jackpot pattern 3) is won. When these special chart 2 variation patterns are selected by the game control microcomputer 101, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the final stopping mode (final stopping mode) of the presentation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in the variable presentation to a repeat number of the friendly patterns. This repeat number of the friendly patterns functions as a notification that a guaranteed jackpot has been won. The presentation flow of the variable presentation in each special chart variation pattern will be described later.

"THP004" is a "battle defense jackpot variation" in which the reach symbol is a normal enemy symbol, and "THP005" is a "battle defense jackpot variation" in which the reach symbol is a strong enemy symbol.

These special chart 2 variation patterns are selected when a so-called normal jackpot (jackpot pattern 4) is won. When these special chart 2 variation patterns are selected by the game control microcomputer 101, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the final stopping state of the presentation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in the variable presentation to a repeat number of enemy patterns (normal enemy pattern, strong enemy pattern). This repeat number of enemy patterns functions as a notification that a normal jackpot has been won.

Additionally, Special Chart 2 variation patterns "THP011" to "THP015" are all "miss variations" in which a battle reach is performed as an SP reach. Of these, "THP011" is a "battle attack miss variation" in which the reach symbol is an ally symbol, "THP012" is a "battle defense/counter miss variation" in which the reach symbol is a normal enemy symbol, "THP013" is a "battle defense/counter miss variation" in which the reach symbol is a strong enemy symbol, "THP014" is a "battle defense miss variation" in which the reach symbol is a normal enemy symbol, and "THP015" is a "battle defense miss variation" in which the reach symbol is a strong enemy symbol.

When these special chart 2 variation patterns are selected by the game control microcomputer 101, the presentation control microcomputer 121 determines the final stopping state of the presentation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in the variation presentation to be a reach miss.

In addition, the special chart 2 variation pattern "THP021" is a "normal A miss variation," and the special chart 2 variation pattern "THP022" is a "normal B miss variation." These special chart 2 variation patterns are special chart variation patterns in which the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 do not reach (the reach performance is not executed). When these special chart 2 variation patterns are selected by the game control microcomputer 101, the performance control microcomputer 121 sets the final stopping state of the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in the variation performance to a non-reach miss.

Next, we will explain the presentation flow of the presentation in each special chart change pattern (THP001-005, THP011-015) that accompanies a battle reach. In a battle attack change (battle attack big win change, battle attack miss change), after the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 start to change and display, a reach is formed with the ally symbols, and a battle reach presentation is performed in which an ally character launches a preemptive attack on a normal enemy character (normal enemy character), leading to a winning or losing outcome.

In addition, in battle defense/counter fluctuations (battle defense/counter big win fluctuation, battle defense/counter miss fluctuation) where the reach symbol is a normal enemy symbol, after the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 start to change and display, a reach is formed with the normal enemy symbol, and the normal enemy character launches an attack on an ally character, but the ally character dodges this attack and launches a counter attack on the normal enemy character, resulting in a battle reach performance where the outcome branches out.

In addition, in the battle defense/counter fluctuation (battle defense/counter big win fluctuation, battle defense/counter miss fluctuation) where the reach symbol is a strong enemy symbol, after the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 start to change and display, a reach is formed with the strong enemy symbol, and the strong enemy character launches an attack on an ally character, but the ally character dodges this attack and launches a counter attack on the strong enemy character, resulting in a battle reach performance where the outcome branches out.

In addition, in a battle defense variation where the reach symbol is a normal enemy symbol (battle defense big win variation, battle defense miss variation), after the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 start to be displayed in a varying manner, a reach is formed with the normal enemy symbol, and a battle reach performance is performed in which the normal enemy character attacks an ally character, resulting in a winning or losing outcome. Note that in this battle defense variation, ally characters do not make counter attacks.

In addition, in a battle defense variation where the reach symbol is a strong enemy symbol (battle defense big win variation, battle defense miss variation), after the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 start to be displayed, a reach is formed with the strong enemy symbol, and a battle reach performance is performed in which the strong enemy character attacks an ally character, resulting in a winning or losing outcome. Note that in this battle defense variation, counter attacks by ally characters are not performed.

In this way, in this embodiment, when a reach is formed with an ally symbol (THP001, THP011), it develops into a battle reach in which an ally character battles a normal enemy character, and in this battle reach, the ally character launches a preemptive attack. Also, when a reach is formed with a normal enemy symbol (THP002, THP012, THP004, THP014), it develops into a battle reach in which an ally character battles a normal enemy character, and in this battle reach, the normal enemy character attacks the ally character. Also, when a reach is formed with a strong enemy symbol (THP003, THP013, THP005, THP015), it develops into a battle reach in which an ally character battles a strong enemy character, and in this battle reach, the strong enemy character attacks the ally character.

Here, each special chart variation pattern that accompanies a battle reach is selected according to the distribution rate shown in FIG. 31. In detail, the battle attack jackpot variation is selected at a higher rate than the battle defense/counter jackpot variation when jackpot pattern 3 (probable jackpot) is won. Also, the battle attack miss variation is selected at a lower selection rate of 10% compared to other special chart variation patterns when there is a reach and miss. Therefore, the battle attack variation (a variation in which an ally pattern is a reach pattern) functions as a presentation that has a high probability of winning a probable jackpot.

In addition, compared to the special pattern variation pattern in which the reach pattern is a normal enemy pattern, the special pattern variation pattern in which the reach pattern is a strong enemy pattern is extremely likely to be selected when winning jackpot pattern 4 (normal jackpot), is unlikely to be selected when winning jackpot pattern 3 (probability variable pattern), and is also unlikely to be selected when there is a reach and a miss. Therefore, the variation effect in which the reach pattern is a strong enemy pattern (an example of a low-success effect) functions as an effect with a high expectation of a normal jackpot (an effect that gives the impression that the high probability state will not continue after winning a normal jackpot) or an effect with a low expectation of a probability variable jackpot. In this form, since the player plays in a high probability high base state hoping that the high probability state will continue after the next jackpot game, winning jackpot pattern 4 (normal jackpot) is disadvantageous and undesirable for the player. Therefore, when a variable presentation in which the enemy symbol is a reach symbol is performed, the player proceeds with the game hoping that a counter attack by an ally character will be performed, and if the counter attack by the ally character is not performed, the player proceeds with the game hoping that the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 will finally be displayed stopped in a manner indicating a miss (a miss in which the jackpot symbol 4 has not been won). However, when a reach is formed with a strong enemy symbol, the possibility of a counter attack by an ally character and the possibility of a miss in the event that a counter attack is not performed are lower than when a reach is formed with a normal enemy symbol, so the player proceeds with the game with a sense of tension, hoping that the jackpot symbol 4 has not been won.

On the other hand, when a reach is formed with a normal enemy symbol, the probability of winning jackpot symbol 4 (normal jackpot) is very low compared to when a reach is formed with a strong enemy symbol, the probability of winning jackpot symbol 3 (probability variable symbol) is high, and the probability of a reach but miss is also high. Therefore, a variable effect in which the reach symbol is a normal enemy symbol (an example of a high success effect) functions as an effect that can be fully expected to win a probability variable jackpot.

Next, the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in the pachinko gaming machine PZ1 will be described in detail. The pachinko gaming machine PZ1 displays effect patterns (decorative patterns) with designs corresponding to the effect mode on the display unit 50a. Here, the effect patterns in the special probability effect mode (a performance mode set in a high probability high base state, in which the special probability background image G105, which is a background image representing the universe shown in FIG. 18 (B-4), is displayed on the display unit 50a) will be described. In this embodiment, the special probability effect mode includes a first special probability effect mode (an example of a specific effect mode) and a second special probability effect mode (an example of a non-specific effect mode).

In the pachinko game machine PZ1, the left performance pattern EZ1, the center performance pattern EZ2, and the right performance pattern EZ3 each include eight performance patterns from 1 to 8. Of these, the odd-numbered patterns (1, 3, 5, and 7) are ally patterns depicting ally characters, and the even-numbered patterns (2, 4, 6, and 8) are enemy patterns (normal enemy patterns, strong enemy patterns) depicting enemy characters (normal enemy characters, strong enemy characters). As shown in FIG. 32, the number of strong enemy patterns (an example of a specific decorative pattern) differs depending on whether the game is in the first or second probability variation performance mode. As shown in FIG. 32(A), in the first probability variation performance mode, three enemy patterns, 2, 4, and 6, are normal enemy patterns, and only 8 is a strong enemy pattern. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 32(B), in the second probability variation presentation mode, only the 2 symbol is the normal enemy symbol, and the 4, 6, and 8 symbols are strong enemy symbols. In other words, the second probability variation presentation mode is a presentation mode in which there are more strong enemy symbols than the first probability variation presentation mode.

Each of the performance symbols (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 symbols) includes a base part DG on which a character is drawn and a number part SG that represents a number. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the "1 symbol" is an elliptical base that includes a base part DGM on which an ally character (the protagonist character of the work that is the motif of the pachinko game machine PZ1) is drawn on the front, and a number part SG1 that represents the number 1. FIG. 33 is a diagram showing various performance symbols in the first probability change performance mode. Each of the 3, 5, and 7 symbols, like the 1 symbol, is designed by superimposing a number part SG (SG3 representing 3, SG5 representing 5, SG7 representing 7) that represents a number corresponding to each symbol on the front left lower part of the elliptical base part DGM on which an ally character is drawn.

In the first probability variation mode, the three symbols, 2, 4, and 6, are the normal enemy symbols. Each of these symbols is designed with a number section SG (SG2 for 2, SG4 for 4, SG6 for 6) that represents a number corresponding to each symbol superimposed on the lower left front of the oval-shaped base section DGT on which the normal enemy character (in this mode, an enemy character with a horse motif) is drawn.

In the first probability variation mode, only the 8 symbol is a strong enemy symbol. This 8 symbol is designed with a number part SG8, which represents 8, superimposed on the front left lower part of an oval-shaped base part DGK on which a strong enemy character (in this mode, the enemy character who is the leader of the enemy side) is drawn.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 34, in the second probability variation presentation mode, the 4 and 6 symbols, like the 8 symbol, become strong enemy symbols (presentation symbols including a base part DGK on which a strong enemy character is drawn), and only the 2 symbol becomes a normal enemy symbol (presentation symbol including a base part DGT on which a normal enemy character is drawn). In other words, in the second probability variation presentation mode, the number of strong enemy symbols is greater than in the first probability variation presentation mode, and the number of normal enemy symbols is reduced accordingly. For this reason, in the second probability variation presentation mode, it is easier for the player to get the impression that it is more difficult to hit a probability variation jackpot (in other words, the impression that the high probability state is less likely to continue) than in the first probability variation presentation mode. Note that the number of ally symbols does not change between the second probability variation presentation mode and the first probability variation presentation mode.

In this embodiment, whether to set the first or second probability change presentation mode is determined by the presentation control microcomputer 121 by lottery when the jackpot game is ended and the high probability high base state is transitioned to (for example, the first probability change presentation mode is set at a rate of 70% and the second probability change presentation mode is set at a rate of 30%.) Incidentally, when the jackpot game is ended and the high probability high base state is transitioned to, it is determined whether the generated special chart 2 reserve includes a normal jackpot reserve that is expected to be determined as having won a normal jackpot (prediction during jackpot game), and if a normal jackpot reserve is not included, a relatively high rate (for example, 80%) of the first probability change presentation mode is set, and the remaining rate is set to the second probability change presentation mode, while if a normal jackpot reserve is included, a relatively high rate (for example, 80%) of the second probability change presentation mode is set, and the remaining rate is set to the first probability change presentation mode. By configuring it in this way, it is possible to make the second probability variation mode function as a variation mode in which the high probability state is unlikely to continue, which is expected to increase interest.

Next, we will explain the lottery for determining the reach pattern (the pattern that forms a reach) by the performance control microcomputer 121 in the high probability high base state. When the first probability variable performance mode is set, the lottery for determining the reach pattern is based on the reach pattern determination table shown in Figure 35 (A), and when the second probability variable performance mode is set, the lottery is based on the reach pattern determination table shown in Figure 35 (B).

Specifically, when the first probability variation mode is set, as shown in FIG. 35(A), if the special pattern variation pattern indicated by the special pattern variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP001 (battle attack big win variation with the reach pattern as the ally pattern), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 1, 3, and 5 patterns at a rate of 20% each, and selects the 7 pattern at a rate of 40%. On the other hand, if the special pattern variation pattern indicated by the special pattern variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP011 (battle attack miss variation with the reach pattern as the ally pattern), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 1, 3, and 5 patterns at a rate of 30% each, and selects the 7 pattern at a rate of 10%. In this way, since the 7 symbol reach is more likely to occur with a jackpot fluctuation and less likely to occur with a miss fluctuation, the 7 symbol reach functions as an effect that has a higher expectation of winning the jackpot (expected jackpot winning probability) than the 1 symbol, 3 symbol, or 5 symbol reach.

In addition, when the first probability change presentation mode is set, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP002 (battle defense/counter big win change with the reach symbol as the normal enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 2 symbol at a rate of 34% and the 4 symbol and the 6 symbol at a rate of 33% each. Similarly, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP012 (battle defense/counter miss change with the reach symbol as the normal enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 2 symbol at a rate of 34% and the 4 symbol and the 6 symbol at a rate of 33% each. In other words, in the battle defense/counter change with the reach symbol as the normal enemy symbol, the three types of normal enemy symbols are selected as the reach symbol at approximately the same rate whether it is a big win or a miss.

In addition, when the first probability change presentation mode is set, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP004 (battle defense jackpot change with the reach symbol as the normal enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 2 symbol at a rate of 34%, and selects the 4 symbol and the 6 symbol at a rate of 33% each. Similarly, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP014 (battle defense miss change with the reach symbol as the normal enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 2 symbol at a rate of 34%, and selects the 4 symbol and the 6 symbol at a rate of 33% each. In other words, in the battle defense change with the reach symbol as the normal enemy symbol, the three types of normal enemy symbols are selected as the reach symbol at approximately the same rate in both the jackpot and miss cases. Therefore, in the first probability variation presentation mode, the probability of a jackpot when a reach is formed with a normal enemy symbol, and the probability of a counter attack occurring in a battle reach are generally the same whether the reach is with a 2 symbol, a 4 symbol, or a 6 symbol. In addition, the probability of a jackpot or a counter attack occurring may be configured to differ depending on the type of normal enemy symbol, thereby increasing the interest in the game.

In addition, when the first probability change presentation mode is set, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP003 (battle defense with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol/counter jackpot change), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 8 symbol at a rate of 100%. Similarly, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP013 (battle defense with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol/counter miss change), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 8 symbol at a rate of 100%. Similarly, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP005 (battle defense jackpot change with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 8 symbol at a rate of 100%. Similarly, when the special pattern change pattern indicated by the special pattern change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP015 (battle defense miss change with the reach pattern as the strong enemy pattern), the 8 pattern is selected 100% of the time. In other words, the 8 pattern is always selected in battle defense/counter changes and battle defense changes with the reach pattern as the strong enemy pattern.

Also, when the second probability variation mode is set, as shown in FIG. 35(B), if the special pattern variation pattern indicated by the special pattern variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP001 (battle attack big win variation with the reach pattern as the ally pattern), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 1, 3, and 5 patterns at a rate of 20% each, and the 7 pattern at a rate of 40%, just like when the first probability variation mode is set. On the other hand, if the special pattern variation pattern indicated by the special pattern variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP011 (battle attack miss variation with the reach pattern as the ally pattern), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 1, 3, and 5 patterns at a rate of 30% each, and the 7 pattern at a rate of 10%, just like when the first probability variation mode is set. In this way, since the 7 symbol reach is more likely to occur with a jackpot fluctuation and less likely to occur with a miss fluctuation, the 7 symbol reach functions as an effect that has a higher expectation of winning the jackpot (expected jackpot winning probability) than the 1 symbol, 3 symbol, or 5 symbol reach.

Also, when the second probability variation presentation mode is set, if the special chart variation pattern indicated by the special chart variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP002 (battle defense/counter jackpot variation with the reach symbol as the normal enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects 2 symbols at a rate of 100%. Similarly, if the special chart variation pattern indicated by the special chart variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP012 (battle defense/counter miss variation with the reach symbol as the normal enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects 2 symbols at a rate of 100%. Similarly, if the special chart variation pattern indicated by the special chart variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP004 (battle defense jackpot variation with the reach symbol as the normal enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects 2 symbols at a rate of 100%. Similarly, when the special symbol variation pattern indicated by the special symbol variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP014 (battle defense miss variation in which the reach symbol is the normal enemy symbol), 2 symbols are selected 100% of the time. In other words, 2 symbols are always selected in battle defense/counter variations in which the reach symbol is the normal enemy symbol and battle defense variations.

In addition, when the second probability change presentation mode is set, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP003 (battle defense/counter big win change with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 4 symbol and the 6 symbol at a rate of 33% each, and selects the 8 symbol at a rate of 34%. Similarly, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP013 (battle defense/counter miss change with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 4 symbol and the 6 symbol at a rate of 33% each, and selects the 8 symbol at a rate of 34%. In other words, in the battle defense/counter change with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol, the three types of strong enemy symbols are selected as the reach symbol at approximately the same rate, whether it is a big win or a miss.

In addition, when the second probability change presentation mode is set, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP005 (battle defense jackpot change with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 4 symbol and the 6 symbol at a rate of 33% each, and selects the 8 symbol at a rate of 34%. Similarly, if the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP015 (battle defense miss change with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the 4 symbol and the 6 symbol at a rate of 33% each, and selects the 8 symbol at a rate of 34%. In other words, in the battle defense change with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol, the three types of strong enemy symbols are selected as the reach symbol at approximately the same rate in both the case of a jackpot and a miss. Therefore, in the second probability variation performance mode, the probability of a jackpot when a reach is formed with a strong enemy symbol and the probability of a counter attack occurring in a battle reach are roughly the same whether the reach is a 4 symbol, a 6 symbol, or an 8 symbol. In addition, the probability of a jackpot or a counter attack occurring may be configured to differ depending on the type of strong enemy symbol, thereby increasing the interest in the game.

Next, we will explain the look-ahead performance (performance performed based on the result of the look-ahead judgment) when a winning entry occurs in the second starting hole 12 in a high probability high base state. The pachinko gaming machine PZ1 can execute a chance zone performance in which the background image is changed from the probability change background image G105 (image of a space background) to a chance background image (forest background image G70, see Figure 44 (B)) as a look-ahead performance in a high probability high base state. The chance zone performance (an example of a specified look-ahead performance) is a performance that can be executed over multiple changes from a change based on a special chart reserve stored before the target reserve (the special chart reserve that triggered the execution of the look-ahead performance) to a change based on the target reserve.

When a win occurs in the second start hole 12 in a high probability high base state, the game control microcomputer 101 specifies a start winning command based on the special pattern 2 pre-reading judgment table shown in FIG. 36. As shown in FIG. 36, when the game control microcomputer 101 judges that a jackpot pattern 3 (probable jackpot) is expected to be won as a pre-reading judgment and that a battle attack jackpot variation with a reach pattern as an ally pattern is expected to be selected, it selects command 001 as the start winning command. Also, when the game control microcomputer 101 judges that a jackpot pattern 3 (probable jackpot) is expected to be won as a pre-reading judgment and that a battle defense/counter jackpot variation with a reach pattern as a normal enemy pattern is expected to be selected, it selects command 002 as the start winning command. Also, when the game control microcomputer 101 judges that a jackpot pattern 3 (probable jackpot) is expected to be won as a pre-reading judgment and that a battle defense/counter jackpot variation with a reach pattern as a strong enemy pattern is expected to be selected, it selects command 003 as the start winning command. In addition, if it is determined based on the pre-reading judgment that the jackpot pattern 4 (normal jackpot) is expected to be won and that a battle defense jackpot variation with a reach pattern as a normal enemy pattern is expected to be selected, command 004 is selected as the start winning command. In addition, if it is determined based on the pre-reading judgment that the jackpot pattern 4 (normal jackpot) is expected to be won and that a battle defense jackpot variation with a reach pattern as a strong enemy pattern is expected to be selected, command 005 is selected as the start winning command.

In addition, when the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the game is going to have a miss with a reach as a pre-reading judgment and that a battle attack miss variation with the reach symbol as an ally symbol is going to be selected, it selects command 011 as the start winning command. In addition, when the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the game is going to have a miss with a reach as a pre-reading judgment and that a battle defense/counter miss variation with the reach symbol as a normal enemy symbol is going to be selected, it selects command 012 as the start winning command. In addition, when the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the game is going to have a miss with a reach as a pre-reading judgment and that a battle defense/counter miss variation with the reach symbol as a strong enemy symbol is going to be selected, it selects command 013 as the start winning command. In addition, when the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the game is going to have a miss with a reach as a pre-reading judgment and that a battle defense miss variation with the reach symbol as a normal enemy symbol is going to be selected, it selects command 014 as the start winning command. Also, if the pre-reading judgment indicates that a reach is expected to occur but a miss is expected, and it is judged that a battle defense miss variation in which the reach symbol is a strong enemy symbol is expected to be selected, command 015 is selected as the start winning command. Also, if the pre-reading judgment indicates that a no-reach miss is expected, command 021 is selected as the start winning command. In this way, the start winning command includes information on the type of jackpot symbol and information on the special symbol variation pattern.

In the high probability high base state, when the performance control microcomputer 121 receives a start winning command from the game control microcomputer 101, it performs a lottery to execute the chance zone performance based on the lottery table for the chance zone performance shown in Figure 37. Specifically, as shown in Figure 37, if the received start winning command is command 001 (a command indicating the planned execution of a battle attack jackpot fluctuation with the reach symbol as the ally symbol), the performance control microcomputer 121 decides to execute the chance zone performance with a 50% probability, and decides not to execute it with a 50% probability.

If the start winning command received by the performance control microcomputer 121 is command 002 (a command indicating the planned execution of a battle defense/counter jackpot variation in which the reach symbol is a normal enemy symbol), the performance control microcomputer 121 decides to execute the chance zone performance with a probability of 40% and not to execute it with a probability of 60%. If the start winning command received by the performance control microcomputer 121 is command 004 (a command indicating the planned execution of a battle defense jackpot variation in which the reach symbol is a normal enemy symbol), the performance control microcomputer 121 decides to execute the chance zone performance with a probability of 5% and not to execute it with a probability of 95%.

If the start winning command received is command 011 (a command indicating the planned execution of a battle attack failure variation with the reach symbol as an ally symbol), command 012 (a command indicating the planned execution of a battle defense/counter failure variation with the reach symbol as a normal enemy symbol), or command 014 (a command indicating the planned execution of a battle defense failure variation with the reach symbol as a normal enemy symbol), the performance control microcomputer 121 decides to execute the chance zone performance with a probability of 20% and not to execute it with a probability of 80%. If the start winning command received is command 021 (a command indicating the planned execution of a normal failure variation), the performance control microcomputer 121 decides to execute the chance zone performance with a probability of 0.5% and not to execute it with a probability of 99.5%.

In addition, when the received start winning command is a command indicating the planned execution of a variation in which the reach symbol is a strong enemy symbol (i.e., command 003, command 005, command 013, command 015), the performance control microcomputer 121 does not draw a lottery to execute the chance zone performance, and does not execute the chance zone performance. In other words, in this form, it is prohibited to execute a chance zone performance with a special reserved symbol that is scheduled to execute a variation in which the reach symbol is a strong enemy symbol as a target reserved.

As described above, in this embodiment, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not a chance zone effect will be performed. Therefore, in this embodiment, the chance zone effect functions as an effect that suggests a high expectation of a big win being announced by a change based on the target reservation (FIG. 37), and in particular, functions as an effect that suggests a high expectation of winning a special big win (big win pattern 3). In this embodiment, when a reach is formed with a strong enemy pattern, the possibility of winning a normal big win (big win pattern 4) is high (see FIG. 31). Since the chance zone effect is not performed with the special pattern reservation where a reach is to be formed with a strong enemy pattern as the target reservation, a situation is prevented in which, although the expectation of winning a big win is strengthened by the chance zone effect being performed, the reach is formed with a strong enemy pattern, and the player becomes disappointed that he or she may have won a normal big win that is disadvantageous to the player.

The execution rate of the chance zone effect can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not reduce the effect of the effect. For example, in this embodiment, even if a special reserved symbol that is normally scheduled to execute a miss variation is configured to become a target reserved symbol for the chance zone effect with an extremely low probability, but it may also be configured so that a battle reach is always executed when a chance zone effect is executed.

Next, we will explain examples of how the Battle Reach and Chance Zone effects are performed.

<Battle Reach> In a high probability, high base state, when the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP001 or THP011, i.e., when a battle attack change is to be performed, the effect control microcomputer 121 temporarily stops the left effect pattern EZ1 and the right effect pattern EZ3 with the same ally pattern (7 in this case) as shown in Figures 38 (A) and (B), and sets the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 to a reach state (an example of a "predetermined state"). This allows the player to recognize that a battle reach has begun, in which an ally character will launch a preemptive attack.

The performance up until the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 reach a reach state in the variable performance is an example of the first performance, and the performance after the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 reach a reach state in the variable performance is an example of the second performance. A variable performance that develops into a battle reach is an example of a specific performance. The result of a guaranteed jackpot winning derived in the variable performance is an example of a specific result, and the result of a regular jackpot winning derived in the variable performance is an example of a non-specific result. A guaranteed jackpot winning is an example of a specified condition.

In a battle reach where an ally character makes a preemptive attack, as shown in FIG. 39(A), first, an image showing the ally character battling a normal enemy character (horse character) is displayed on the display unit 50a, and then, as shown in FIG. 39(B), an image showing the ally character attacking the enemy character is displayed on the display unit 50a, leading to a win/lose branch. In the case of a variation effect based on the special chart variation pattern THP001 (battle attack big win variation), the performance control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing that the ally character's attack hits the normal enemy character and the ally character has defeated the enemy character on the display unit 50a following the performance shown in FIG. 39(B) (FIG. 39(C)). In other words, a victory performance as shown in FIG. 39(C) is executed. Then, as shown in FIG. 39(D), the battle reach image is switched back to the space background image (probability change background image G105), and the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally displayed as stopped (confirmed stop display) with a repeat number of friendly symbols (here, the reach symbol 7). This indicates to the player that they have won the probability change jackpot (jackpot symbol 3) and that the high probability state will continue even after the jackpot game.

On the other hand, if the variation effect is based on the special chart variation pattern THP011 (battle attack failure variation), the microcomputer 121 for controlling the effect displays an image on the display unit 50a indicating that the enemy character has dodged the attack of the ally character and that the ally character has failed the attack (FIG. 39(E)) following the effect shown in FIG. 39(B). In other words, a failure effect as shown in FIG. 39(E) is executed. Then, as shown in FIG. 39(F), the image of the battle reach is returned to the image of the space background (background image for probability variation G105), and the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally stopped (confirmed stop display) with the reach failure number (here, "7, 6, 7"). This indicates to the player that he has not won the jackpot, and the game continues in a high probability high base state.

In addition, in the high probability high base state, when the special pattern change pattern indicated by the special pattern change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP002 or THP012, that is, when a battle defense/counter change with a normal enemy pattern as a reach pattern is performed, or when the special pattern change pattern indicated by the special pattern change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP004 or THP014, that is, when a battle defense change with a normal enemy pattern as a reach pattern is performed, as shown in Figure 38 (A) (C), the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 are both temporarily stopped with the same normal enemy pattern (here, two patterns), and the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are in a reach state. This allows the player to recognize that a battle reach in which a normal enemy character attacks an ally character is about to begin.

In a battle reach where a normal enemy character attacks an ally character, as shown in FIG. 40(A), first, an image showing that the ally character is battling a normal enemy character (horse character) is displayed on the display unit 50a. This is the same as the battle attack variation. After that, as shown in FIG. 40(B), an image showing that the normal enemy character is attacking the ally character is displayed on the display unit 50a, and the performance branching occurs. If the variation performance is based on the special chart variation pattern THP004 (battle defense jackpot variation), the performance control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing that the ally character has been defeated by the attack of the normal enemy character on the display unit 50a following the performance shown in FIG. 40(B) (FIG. 40(C)). In other words, a defeat performance as shown in FIG. 40(C) is executed. Then, as shown in FIG. 40(D), the battle reach image is switched back to the space background image (high probability background image G105), and the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally displayed as stopped (confirmed stop display) with a repeat number of normal enemy symbols (here, the reach symbol 2). This indicates to the player that a normal jackpot (jackpot symbol 4) has been won, and that the probability of the jackpot transitions to a low probability state (the high probability state will not continue) after the jackpot game.

On the other hand, if the variation effect is based on the special chart variation pattern THP014 (battle defense failure variation), the microcomputer 121 for controlling the effect displays an image on the display unit 50a showing that the friendly character is withstanding the attack of the normal enemy character and is burning with fighting spirit (FIG. 40(E)) following the effect shown in FIG. 40(B). That is, it executes the continuation effect as shown in FIG. 40(E). Then, as shown in FIG. 40(F), the image of the battle reach is returned to the image of the space background (background image for probability variation G105), and the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally displayed as stopped (confirmed stop display) with the reach failure number (here, "2, 1, 2"). This indicates to the player that he has not won the jackpot, and the game continues in a high probability high base state.

In addition, if the variation effect is based on the special pattern variation pattern THP002 (battle defense/counter jackpot variation) or THP012 (battle defense/counter miss variation), the microcomputer 121 for controlling the effect displays an image of an ally character performing a counter attack on a normal enemy character on the display unit 50a following the effect shown in FIG. 40(B) (FIG. 41(A)(B)). Note that at the time when the effect of the counter attack by the ally character is executed, the normal jackpot (jackpot pattern 4) has not been won. Therefore, in this embodiment, the reach pattern is changed to an odd pattern (a pattern with a number corresponding to the ally pattern) as the effect of the counter attack is executed (see FIG. 41(B)).

If the variation effect is based on the special pattern variation pattern THP002 (battle defense/counter jackpot variation), the microcomputer 121 for controlling the effect displays an image on the display unit 50a showing that the counter attack of the ally character hits the normal enemy character and the ally character has defeated the enemy character (FIG. 41(C)), following the effect shown in FIG. 41(B). In other words, like the battle attack jackpot variation, a victory effect as shown in FIG. 41(C) is executed. Then, the image returns to the space background image (background image for probability variation G105), and the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally displayed as a double number of ally patterns (here, 7 patterns) (FIG. 41(D)). This indicates to the player that the probability variation jackpot (jackpot pattern 3) has been won, and that the high probability state will continue even after the jackpot game.

On the other hand, if the variation effect is based on the special chart variation pattern THP012 (battle defense/counter miss variation), the variation control microcomputer 121 displays an image on the display unit 50a indicating that the normal enemy character has dodged the counter attack of the ally character and that the ally character has failed the counter attack (FIG. 41(E)) following the variation shown in FIG. 41(B). In other words, similar to the battle attack miss variation, a failure effect as shown in FIG. 41(E) is executed. Then, the image of the space background (probability change background image G105) is restored, and the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally stopped (confirmed stop display) with a reach miss number (here, "7, 6, 7"). This indicates to the player that he has not won the jackpot, and the game continues in a high probability high base state.

In addition, in the high probability high base state, when the special pattern change pattern indicated by the special pattern change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP003 or THP013, that is, when a battle defense/counter change with a strong enemy pattern as a reach pattern is performed, or when the special pattern change start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP005 or THP015, that is, when a battle defense change with a strong enemy pattern as a reach pattern is performed, as shown in Figure 38 (A) (D), the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 are both temporarily stopped with the same strong enemy pattern (8 pattern in this case), and the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are in a reach state. This allows the player to recognize that a battle reach in which a strong enemy character attacks an ally character is about to begin. In other words, the player is informed that there is a relatively high probability of winning a regular jackpot (jackpot symbol 4), and that there is a high probability that this high probability state will not continue.

In a battle reach where a strong enemy character attacks an ally character, as shown in FIG. 42(A), first, an image showing the ally character battling the strong enemy character is displayed on the display unit 50a. Then, as shown in FIG. 42(B), an image showing the strong enemy character attacking the ally character is displayed on the display unit 50a, and the performance branches. If the performance is based on the special chart variation pattern THP005 (battle defense jackpot variation), the performance control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing that the ally character has been defeated by the attack of the strong enemy character on the display unit 50a following the performance shown in FIG. 42(B) (FIG. 42(C)). In other words, a defeat performance as shown in FIG. 42(C) is executed. Then, as shown in FIG. 42(D), the battle reach image is switched back to the space background image (probability change background image G105), and the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally displayed as stopped (confirmed stop display) with a repeat number of a strong enemy symbol (here, the reach symbol 8). This indicates to the player that a normal jackpot (jackpot symbol 4) has been won, and that after the jackpot game, the game will move to a low probability state (the high probability state will not continue).

On the other hand, if the variation effect is based on the special chart variation pattern THP015 (battle defense failure variation), the microcomputer 121 for controlling the effect displays an image on the display unit 50a showing that the friendly character is withstanding the attack of the strong enemy character and is burning with fighting spirit (FIG. 42(E)) following the effect shown in FIG. 42(B). That is, a continuation effect as shown in FIG. 42(E) is executed. Then, as shown in FIG. 42(F), the image of the battle reach is returned to the image of the space background (background image for probability variation G105), and the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally displayed as stopped (confirmed stop display) with the reach failure number (here, "8, 7, 8"). This indicates to the player that he has not won the jackpot, and the game continues in a high probability high base state.

In addition, if the variation effect is based on the special pattern variation pattern THP003 (battle defense/counter big win variation) or THP013 (battle defense/counter miss variation), the microcomputer 121 for controlling the effect displays an image of an ally character performing a counter attack against a strong enemy character on the display unit 50a following the effect shown in FIG. 42(B) (FIG. 43(A)(B)). Note that at the time when the effect of the counter attack by the ally character is executed, a normal big win (big win pattern 4) has not been won. Therefore, with the execution of the effect of the counter attack, the reach pattern is changed to an odd pattern (a pattern with a number corresponding to the ally pattern) (see FIG. 43(B)).

If the variation effect is based on the special pattern variation pattern THP003 (battle defense/counter jackpot variation), the microcomputer 121 for controlling the effect displays an image on the display unit 50a showing that the counter attack of the ally character hits the strong enemy character and the ally character has defeated the strong enemy character (FIG. 43(C)), following the effect shown in FIG. 43(B). In other words, a victory effect as shown in FIG. 43(C) is executed. Then, the image returns to the space background image (background image for probability variation G105), and the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally displayed as a double number of the ally pattern (7 pattern in this case) (FIG. 43(D)). This indicates to the player that the probability variation jackpot (jackpot pattern 3) has been won, and that the high probability state will continue even after the jackpot game.

On the other hand, if the variation effect is based on the special chart variation pattern THP013 (battle defense/counter miss variation), the variation control microcomputer 121 displays an image on the display unit 50a indicating that the strong enemy character has dodged the counter attack of the friendly character and that the friendly character has failed the counter attack (FIG. 43(E)) following the effect shown in FIG. 43(B). In other words, a failure effect as shown in FIG. 43(E) is executed. Then, the image returns to the space background image (probability variation background image G105) and the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally stopped (confirmed stop display) with a reach miss number (here, "7, 6, 7"). This indicates to the player that he has not won the jackpot, and play continues in a high probability high base state.

<Chance Zone Presentation> Next, an example of the chance zone presentation will be described. Figures 44 and 45 are diagrams showing a specific example of the chance zone presentation. Figure 44 (A) shows a scene where the variable presentation corresponding to the icon TA has ended while the background image G105 (space background) for the probability change is displayed on the display unit 50a in a high probability high base state (a scene where the presentation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed as fixed stops). In this scene, four reserved icons HA (special chart 2 reserved icons HA2) related to the special chart 2 are displayed (four special chart 2 reserved icons have been accumulated), and it is determined that the chance zone presentation will be performed in the chance zone presentation execution lottery based on the pre-reading judgment at the time of the occurrence of the fourth special chart 2 reserved icon. In other words, the fourth special chart 2 reserved icon is the target reserved icon for the chance zone presentation.

When the next variable display starts from the state shown in FIG. 44(A), as shown in FIG. 44(B), each special chart 2 reserved icon HA2 is shifted to the display area next to it (one ahead). That is, the first special chart 2 reserved icon HA2 is displayed as the icon TA, and the second to fourth special chart 2 reserved icons HA2 are displayed as the first to third special chart 2 reserved icons HA2. The performance control microcomputer 121 executes a chance zone performance when the reserved icon HA corresponding to this target reservation is shifted for the first time. Specifically, the background image displayed on the display unit 50a is changed from the probability change background image G105 (image of the space background) to the forest background image G70 (chance background image), and the zone entry image G72 including the text image of "CHANCE ZONE" is displayed in the center of the top, bottom, left, and right of the display unit 50a. The zone entry image G72 functions as a display suggesting that the chance zone performance has started (transition to the chance zone).

Then, as shown in FIG. 44(C), the performance control microcomputer 121 displays the zone entry image G72 for a predetermined time (3 seconds in this embodiment) and then hides it, and displays a band image G74 including the words "CHANCE ZONE" at the top of the display unit 50a. The band image G74 is an image to clearly indicate that the chance zone performance is in progress. The execution of the chance zone performance suggests to the player that there is a high possibility that the player has won a special jackpot (jackpot pattern 3) and a low possibility that the player has won a normal jackpot (jackpot pattern 4) (see FIG. 36 and FIG. 37). Note that in this embodiment, the configuration is such that there is a possibility that the player has won a normal jackpot even when the chance zone performance is executed, but it may also be such that there is no possibility that the player has won a normal jackpot at all.

After that, as shown in FIG. 45(A), while the chance zone effect is being executed (while the forest background image G70 is displayed on the display unit 50a), a variable effect based on the target reservation that triggered the execution of the chance zone effect is started. When a reach is formed in this variable effect, it is always a reach with a friendly symbol (e.g., 7 symbol) as shown in FIG. 45(B) or a reach with a normal enemy symbol (e.g., 2 symbol) as shown in FIG. 45(C), and it is never a reach with a strong enemy symbol (see FIG. 37). In this way, in this form, even though the expectation of winning a special jackpot is increased by the execution of the chance zone effect, a reach is formed with a strong enemy symbol, which prevents the occurrence of a situation in which the player becomes disappointed and loses interest because he or she thinks that he or she may have won a normal jackpot. Note that in FIG. 45, the icon TA is a hold display related to the target reservation that triggered the execution of the chance zone effect.

7-2. Effects of the First Embodiment As described above in detail, according to the pachinko game machine PZ1 of the first embodiment, each of the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 (decorative symbols) displayed in a variable manner includes a strong enemy symbol (a performance symbol having a base part DGK with a strong enemy character drawn thereon) which is likely to lead to a normal jackpot win (a non-variable jackpot win), and when the second variable jackpot performance mode is set, the number of strong enemy symbols included in each performance symbol EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 is greater than when the first variable jackpot performance mode is set (see Figs. 33 and 34). Therefore, when the second variable jackpot performance mode is set, the player can be made to feel unfavorable that a normal jackpot win is more likely to be derived than a variable jackpot win as a result of the variable performance (specific performance) that develops into a battle reach (see Fig. 34), stimulating the player's psychology to give the game a sense of tension, and it is possible to improve the game interest.

Furthermore, according to the pachinko game machine PZ1 of the first embodiment, when a special jackpot is won (predetermined conditions are met), it can be controlled to a high probability state (an example of a special state) after a jackpot game state (an example of an advantageous state), and as a variable effect that develops into a battle reach, there are cases where a variable effect (high success effect) is executed in which a normal enemy symbol, which has a relatively high probability of winning a special jackpot, is the reach symbol, and cases where a variable effect (low success effect) is executed in which a strong enemy symbol, which has a relatively low probability of winning a special jackpot, is the reach symbol (see Figures 31 and 38), so it is possible to increase interest in the types of symbols that form the reach, and to increase interest in the game.

In addition, according to the pachinko game machine PZ1 of the first embodiment, when a variable performance that develops into a battle reach is executed in which a strong enemy symbol with a relatively low probability of winning a special jackpot (probability of a high probability state continuing) is executed as a reach pattern, the execution of a chance zone performance based on the results of a look-ahead judgment corresponding to this variable performance is restricted (see Figures 36 and 37). This makes it possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which a player is disappointed when a variable performance with a strong enemy symbol as a reach pattern is executed, despite the execution of a chance zone performance raising the player's hopes.

7-3. Modifications of the First Embodiment Below, modifications of the pachinko game machine PZ1 of the first embodiment will be described. Of course, the configurations of the modifications may be appropriately combined. Furthermore, the technical features in the above embodiment and the following modifications may be appropriately deleted unless they are described as essential in this specification.

In the first embodiment described above, the chance zone effect in which the background image is changed from the background image G105 for the probability change to the forest background image G70 is configured as a look-ahead effect that is prohibited when a variable effect in which the strong enemy symbol is a reach symbol is executed. In contrast, the look-ahead effect that is prohibited when a variable effect in which the strong enemy symbol is a reach symbol is executed may be another type of look-ahead effect, such as a reserved display change effect that suggests a high probability of a jackpot by changing the display mode of the reserved display (reserved icon HA, said icon TA) to a special display mode different from the normal display mode, or a chance eye effect that suggests a high probability of a jackpot by stopping and displaying the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 at a predetermined chance eye over one or multiple consecutive special symbol changes.

Also, even if a variable effect is executed in which a strong enemy symbol is the reach symbol, the execution of a chance zone effect may not be prohibited. With such a configuration, although there will still be the opportunity for disappointment when a reach is formed with a strong enemy symbol even after the chance zone effect is executed, the execution of the chance zone effect will increase the opportunities for a sense of elation.

In the first embodiment described above, in both the first and second probability variation modes, when a variable performance in which a strong enemy symbol is a reach symbol is executed, a configuration is adopted in which the execution of a predetermined pre-reading performance (chance zone performance) is prohibited. In contrast, a configuration may be adopted in which the execution of a chance zone performance is prohibited only in the second probability variation mode (a performance mode in which the number of strong enemy symbols included in the symbols 1 to 8 is greater than in the first probability variation mode). With such a configuration, the occurrence of a chance zone performance functions as a suggestion of the establishment of a reach with symbols other than the strong enemy symbol only in a performance mode in which the reach symbol seems to be highly likely to become a strong enemy symbol from the player's perspective, so that an effect of mitigating the disadvantageous feeling of the second probability variation mode can be expected. Conversely, a configuration may be adopted in which the execution of a chance zone performance is prohibited only in the first probability variation mode (a performance mode in which the number of strong enemy symbols included in the symbols 1 to 8 is less than in the second probability variation mode). With this configuration, even if the presentation mode seems to the player to be unlikely to produce a reach symbol that is a strong enemy symbol, if a chance zone presentation occurs and a reach is formed with a strong enemy symbol, the player will likely be very disappointed. This can be prevented from occurring, and a decline in interest in the game can be suppressed.

In the first embodiment described above, the high probability state is the bonus state, but the time-saving state may also be the bonus state. In this case, winning a time-saving jackpot that controls the game state after the end of a jackpot game to the time-saving state corresponds to the specified condition. Alternatively, the bonus state may be a time-saving state in which the number of time-saving times is n (e.g., 7 times) greater than x (e.g., 1 time). In this case, winning a jackpot that triggers a transition to the time-saving state with n time-saving times is an example of the specified condition.

In the first embodiment described above, the execution of the look-ahead effect (chance zone effect) is limited depending on the type of variable effect related to special chart 2 in a high probability high base state, but such a configuration may also be applied to the variable effect and look-ahead effect related to special chart 1 in a game state in which the game progresses mainly through the selection of special chart 1.

In the first embodiment described above, the variable effect in which the enemy symbol is the reach symbol corresponds to the high hit effect, but the high hit effect may be another effect, such as a variable effect in which the ally symbol is the reach symbol, as long as it is an effect that makes it easier to win a special jackpot (an effect in which the specified conditions are easier to achieve).

In addition, in the first embodiment described above, the allocation rates for various lotteries and the contents of each presentation can be appropriately adjusted as long as they do not interfere with gameplay.

8. Pachinko Game Machine of the Second Embodiment 8-1. Configuration of the Second Embodiment Next, the pachinko game machine PZ2 of the second embodiment having a characteristic configuration will be described in detail with reference to Figs. 46-55, focusing on the differences from the pachinko game machine PY1 of the basic form described above. Note that, in the pachinko game machine PZ2 of the second embodiment, as in the pachinko game machine PZ1 of the first embodiment described above, the types of jackpots that can be won in the lottery of the special chart 1 based on winning the first start hole 11 include jackpot pattern 1 and jackpot pattern 2, and the types of jackpots that can be won in the lottery of the special chart 2 based on winning the second start hole 12 include jackpot pattern 3 and jackpot pattern 4, as shown in Fig. 30.

In the second embodiment, the pachinko game machine PZ2 judges the special pattern 1 variation pattern according to the special pattern 1 variation pattern judgment table shown in Fig. 46 in a low probability low base game state. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 46, when the result of the jackpot judgment is "jackpot", the game control microcomputer 101 selects "THP101" as the special pattern 1 variation pattern at a rate of 55%, "THP103" at a rate of 35%, and "THP105" at a rate of 10% even if the result of the jackpot pattern type judgment is "jackpot pattern 1" or "jackpot pattern 2".

In addition, when the result of the jackpot determination is not "jackpot" and the result of the reach determination is "reach", the game control microcomputer 101 selects "THP111" as the special chart 1 variation pattern at a rate of 10%, "THP113" at a rate of 25%, and "THP115" at a rate of 65%.

In addition, when the result of the jackpot determination is not a "jackpot" and the result of the reach determination is "no reach," the game control microcomputer 101 can determine one of two types of special chart 1 variation patterns, "THP121" or "THP122." The number of reserved special charts 1 determines which of these special chart 1 variation patterns to determine.

When the number of reserved special charts 1 is between "0" and "2", "THP121" with a fluctuation time of 13,000 ms is selected 95% of the time, and "THP122" with a fluctuation time of 8,000 ms is selected 5% of the time. Also, when the number of reserved special charts 1 is between "3" and "4", "THP121" with a fluctuation time of 13,000 ms is selected 20% of the time, and "THP122" with a fluctuation time of 8,000 ms is selected 80% of the time. In other words, when the result of the jackpot judgment is "miss" and the result of the reach judgment is "no reach", the smaller the number of reserved special charts 1, the more likely it is that a fluctuation pattern with a longer fluctuation time will be selected.

The allocation rate for each special chart variation pattern can be changed as appropriate. The types of special chart variation patterns can also be increased or decreased as appropriate, as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

Here, the special chart 1 variation patterns "THP101" and "THP103" are "jackpot variations" in which a reach is established and a battle is performed after a development performance. Of these, "THP001" is a "transformation battle jackpot variation" in which the main character transforms into an armored knight in the development performance and challenges an enemy character to a battle, and "THP003" is a "non-transformation battle jackpot variation" in which the main character challenges an enemy character to a battle without transforming into an armored knight in the development performance. In both the battle performance in the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP101" and the battle performance in the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP103", the main character defeats the enemy character and a jackpot is displayed. Also, the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP105" is an "N jackpot variation" in which a reach is established and a jackpot is displayed with an N reach.

The special chart 1 variation patterns "THP111" and "THP113" are "missing variations" in which a reach is established and a battle is performed after a development performance. Of these, "THP111" is a "transformation battle missing variation" in which the main character transforms into an armored knight in the development performance and challenges an enemy character to a battle, while "THP113" is a "non-transformation battle missing variation" in which the main character challenges an enemy character to a battle without transforming into an armored knight in the development performance. In both the battle performance in the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP111" and the battle performance in the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP113", the main character is defeated by the enemy character and it is shown to be a miss. In addition, the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP115" is an "N missing variation" in which a reach is established and ends with an N reach showing that it is a miss.

In addition, the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP121" is a "normal X miss variation," and the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP122" is a "normal Y miss variation." These special chart 1 variation patterns are special chart variation patterns in which the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 do not reach (i.e., the reach performance is not executed) and end with a miss being displayed.

In this embodiment, the special chart 1 variation pattern in the low probability low base game state is selected according to the distribution rate shown in FIG. 46. In other words, if a jackpot is won, the transformation battle jackpot variation (THP101) is most likely to be selected, the non-transformation battle jackpot variation (THP103) is next most likely to be selected, and the N jackpot variation (THP105) is the least likely to be selected. In contrast, if there is a reach and miss, the transformation battle miss variation (THP111) is the least likely to be selected, the non-transformation battle miss variation (THP113) is next most likely to be selected, and the N miss variation (THP115) is most likely to be selected. Therefore, the variation performance that develops into a battle performance functions as a performance with a higher expectation of winning a jackpot (expectation of winning a jackpot) than the variation performance that ends with an N reach. Furthermore, a battle presentation in which a transformed main character battles an enemy character (a transformation battle presentation) functions as a presentation with a higher chance of winning a jackpot than a battle presentation in which a non-transformed main character battles an enemy character (a non-transformation battle presentation).

Next, the variable presentation pattern for the special chart 1 in the low probability low base game state will be explained with reference to FIG. 47. As shown in FIG. 47, in the low probability low base game state, when the special chart 1 variable pattern indicated by the special chart 1 variable start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP101 (transformation battle jackpot variable), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the variable presentation pattern SHP101 60% of the time and selects the variable presentation pattern SHP102 40% of the time. The variable presentation pattern SHP101 is a variable presentation pattern that performs a battle presentation in which the transformed main character battles the enemy character X (enemy character X) and wins. The variable presentation pattern SHP102 is a variable presentation pattern that performs a battle presentation in which the transformed main character battles the enemy character Y (enemy character Y) and wins.

In addition, when the special chart 1 variation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP103 (non-transformation battle jackpot variation), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects variation presentation pattern SHP103 60% of the time and variation presentation pattern SHP104 40% of the time. Variation presentation pattern SHP103 is a variation presentation pattern that creates a battle presentation in which the untransformed main character battles enemy character A (enemy character A) and wins. In addition, variation presentation pattern SHP104 is a variation presentation pattern that creates a battle presentation in which the untransformed main character battles enemy character B (enemy character B) and wins.

In addition, when the special chart 1 variation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP105 (N jackpot variation), the variation presentation pattern SHP105 is selected 100% of the time. The variation presentation pattern SHP105 is a variation presentation pattern in which the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed as a double number in an N reach, indicating a jackpot win.

In addition, when the special chart 1 variation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP111 (transformation battle failure variation), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects variation presentation pattern SHP111 with a probability of 40% and variation presentation pattern SHP112 with a probability of 60%. Variation presentation pattern SHP111 is a variation presentation pattern that performs a battle presentation in which the transformed main character battles enemy character X (enemy character X) and is defeated. In addition, variation presentation pattern SHP112 is a variation presentation pattern that performs a battle presentation in which the transformed main character battles enemy character Y (enemy character Y) and is defeated.

In addition, when the special chart 1 variation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP113 (non-transformation battle miss variation), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects variation presentation pattern SHP113 with a probability of 40% and variation presentation pattern SHP114 with a probability of 60%. Variation presentation pattern SHP113 is a variation presentation pattern that performs a battle presentation in which the untransformed main character battles enemy character A (enemy character A) and is defeated. In addition, variation presentation pattern SHP114 is a variation presentation pattern that performs a battle presentation in which the untransformed main character battles enemy character B (enemy character B) and is defeated.

In addition, when the special chart 1 variation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP115 (N miss variation), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the variation presentation pattern SHP115 at a rate of 100%. The variation presentation pattern SHP115 is a variation presentation pattern in which the presentation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed stopped in a scattered pattern at the N reach, and the variation presentation ends.

In addition, when the special chart 1 variation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP121 (normal X miss variation), the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the variable presentation pattern SHP121 with a 100% probability, and when it is THP122 (normal Y miss variation), it selects the variable presentation pattern SHP122 with a 100% probability. Both the variable presentation patterns SHP121 and SHP122 are variable presentation patterns in which no reach is established, the presentation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed stopped with a spread pattern, and the variable presentation ends.

In this manner, in this embodiment, the presentation control microcomputer 121 selects the variable presentation pattern for special chart 1 in the low probability low base game state according to the variable presentation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 47. Therefore, in the variable presentation of the transformation battle in which the transformed main character battles, when a jackpot is won, a battle with enemy character X (SHP101) is more likely to occur than a battle with enemy character Y (SHP102), and when a jackpot is lost, a battle with enemy character Y (SHP112) is more likely to occur than a battle with enemy character X (SHP111). Therefore, the variable presentation of the transformation battle in which a battle with enemy character X occurs functions as a presentation with a higher probability of winning a jackpot than the variable presentation of the transformation battle in which a battle with enemy character Y occurs.

In addition, in the variable presentation of non-transformation battles in which an untransformed main character battles, when a jackpot is won, a battle with enemy character A (SHP103) is more likely to occur than a battle with enemy character B (SHP104), and when a jackpot is lost, a battle with enemy character B (SHP114) is more likely to occur than a battle with enemy character A (SHP113). Therefore, the variable presentation of a non-transformation battle in which a battle is fought with enemy character A functions as a presentation with a higher probability of winning a jackpot than the variable presentation of a non-transformation battle in which a battle is fought with enemy character B.

Note that the expectation of winning a jackpot is higher in the non-transformation battle transformation presentation in which enemy character A battles enemy character Y than in the transformation battle transformation presentation in which enemy character Y battles enemy character A (see FIG. 46). Therefore, when a reach is reached in the transformation presentation and a development presentation is performed, the player watches the presentation in the hope that the main character will transform. If the main character transforms, the player's expectation of winning a jackpot will grow even stronger, and if the main character does not transform, the player will be somewhat disappointed, although there is still a possibility of winning a jackpot.

Next, the reach establishment challenge performance will be described. The pachinko game machine PZ2 of the second embodiment can execute a reach establishment challenge performance that makes the player expect that the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 will be in a reach state in a change performance (an example of a notification performance) according to the change of the special chart 1 in a low probability low base state. The reach establishment challenge performance is a performance that makes the player operate the normal button 40 (an example of an operation unit) with the aim of making the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 reach a reach state (see Figures 49 and 50). More specifically, in the reach establishment challenge performance, five opportunities (predetermined number of times) are given to operate the normal button 40 (five operation performances that make the normal button 40 operate are generated), and the performance control microcomputer 121 performs a lottery (reach establishment lottery) to establish a reach according to each operation, and if the reach establishment lottery is won, the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a reach state. When the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a reach state, the normal button 40 is vibrated. In other words, until the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a reach state, the probability of displaying the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in a reach state can be said to be equal to the probability of vibrating the normal button 40. The performance in which the normal button 40 vibrates is called a button vibration performance. The state in which the normal button 40 vibrates (vibration state) and the state in which it does not vibrate (non-vibration state) are both types of modes of the operation unit. The button vibration performance is an example of a change performance that changes the mode of the operation unit.

Even if the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a reach state before all five operation opportunities are consumed in the reach establishment challenge performance, the remaining operation opportunities are granted. In other words, even if the reach is established with the third operation in the reach establishment challenge performance, the remaining two operation opportunities are granted. In these remaining two operations, the performance control microcomputer 121 only performs a lottery (vibration lottery) on whether to vibrate the normal button 40 based on the operation of the normal button 40. In other words, in the reach establishment challenge performance, before the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a reach state, the normal button 40 may vibrate with the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 displayed in a reach state in response to the operation of the normal button 40 by the player, and after the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a reach state, the normal button 40 may vibrate in response to the operation of the normal button 40 by the player.

The performance control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not to execute a reach establishment challenge performance based on the lottery table shown in FIG. 48. That is, when the performance control microcomputer 121 selects variable performance pattern SHP103 (variable performance pattern in which a non-transformation battle is conducted in which a victory is won against enemy character A), there is an 80% chance that the performance control microcomputer 121 will execute a reach establishment challenge performance, and there is a 20% chance that the performance control microcomputer 121 will not execute a reach establishment challenge performance. Also, when the performance control microcomputer 121 selects variable performance pattern SHP104 (variable performance pattern in which a non-transformation battle is conducted in which a victory is won against enemy character B), there is a 95% chance that the performance control microcomputer 121 will execute a reach establishment challenge performance, and there is a 5% chance that the performance control microcomputer 121 will not execute a reach establishment challenge performance.

When the performance control microcomputer 121 selects variable performance pattern SHP113 (a variable performance pattern in which a non-transformation battle is conducted in which the player is defeated by enemy character A), there is a 20% chance that the performance control microcomputer 121 will execute a reach-established challenge performance, and there is an 80% chance that the performance control microcomputer 121 will not execute a reach-established challenge performance. When the performance control microcomputer 121 selects variable performance pattern SHP114 (a variable performance pattern in which a non-transformation battle is conducted in which the player is defeated by enemy character B), there is a 2% chance that the performance control microcomputer 121 will execute a reach-established challenge performance, and there is a 98% chance that the performance control microcomputer 121 will not execute a reach-established challenge performance.

In addition, when the performance control microcomputer 121 selects the variable performance pattern SHP121 (a variable performance pattern that ends with a normal fluctuation with a fluctuation time of 13 seconds), it decides to execute a reach-established challenge performance with a probability of 10% and decides not to execute a reach-established challenge performance with a probability of 90%.

The effect control microcomputer 121 will not execute a reach completion challenge effect if it selects a variable effect pattern that performs a transformation battle (SHP101, SHP102, SHP111, SHP112, see FIG. 47), a variable effect pattern that ends with an N reach (SHP105, SHP115), or a variable effect pattern that ends with an 8-second normal fluctuation (SHP122). In other words, in this embodiment, when a reach completion challenge effect is executed and a battle effect is performed, one of two types of non-transformation battle effects (a battle effect in which a battle is performed with enemy character A, or a battle effect in which a battle is performed with enemy character B) is always selected for that battle effect. The reason for this is as follows.

That is, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 48, the reach-established challenge effect is executed with a higher probability in the variation effect based on winning the jackpot (SHP103, SHP104) than in the variation effect based on losing (SHP113, SHP114, SHP121). Therefore, the reach-established challenge effect functions as an effect that suggests a high expectation of a jackpot, or an effect that makes the player expect to be controlled in a jackpot game state (an example of an advantageous state). And as described above, when a battle effect is performed and the main character does not transform in the development effect before that, the player may be disappointed because the player cannot expect to win the jackpot compared to when the main character transforms. Therefore, in this embodiment, when a battle effect of a non-transformation battle is performed, the reach-established challenge effect may be executed with the execution probability shown in FIG. 48. As a result, even when a battle effect of a non-transformation battle is performed, if a reach-established challenge effect has been executed before that, the player can watch the battle effect with a high expectation of winning the jackpot, and the interest in the game can be expected to increase. The reach-achievement challenge effect is an example of an opportunity effect.

In addition, when a battle performance in which a battle is performed with enemy character B, which has a relatively low expectation of winning a jackpot among non-transformation battle performances, is performed, the reach-establishment challenge performance is executed as a performance with a higher expectation of winning a jackpot than when a battle performance in which a battle is performed with enemy character A, which has a relatively high expectation of winning a jackpot (see FIG. 48). Therefore, even when a battle performance in which a non-transformation battle is performed with enemy character B, the reach-establishment challenge performance is executed beforehand, so that the player can watch this battle performance with full hope of winning a jackpot, which is expected to increase interest in the game.

In this embodiment, even if the variable presentation pattern SHP121 (a variable presentation pattern that does not result in a reach that ends with a normal variation of 13 seconds) is selected, the reach establishment challenge presentation may be executed. This is to prevent the execution of the reach establishment challenge presentation from becoming a confirmation notification of the reach establishment.

Here, in the operation effects that occur five times in the reach-establishment challenge effect, where the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are in the reach state is determined by a lottery based on the operation of the normal button 40. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 48, in the case of a variation of a non-transformation battle based on a big win (variation presentation patterns SHP103, SHP104), the performance control microcomputer 121 establishes a reach with a 33.3% probability of reaching, based on the operation of the normal button 40. Also, in the case of a variation of a non-transformation battle based on a miss (variation presentation patterns SHP113, SHP114), the performance control microcomputer 121 establishes a reach with a 25% probability of reaching, based on the operation of the normal button 40. In addition, if the variation is a 13-second normal variation based on a miss (variation presentation pattern SHP121), the presentation control microcomputer 121 will not establish a reach even if the normal button 40 is operated (probability of reaching a reach 0%). Note that if the variation is a non-transformation battle variation (variation presentation patterns SHP103, SHP104, SHP113, SHP114) but no lottery results indicating that a reach will be established are obtained in any of the five operation presentations, the presentation control microcomputer 121 will display the presentation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in a reach state in response to the operation of the normal button 40 in the fifth operation presentation.

In addition, the performance control microcomputer 121 vibrates the normal button 40 when the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a reach state in the reach establishment challenge performance. In other words, before the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 reach the reach state in the variable performance, the lottery for reaching the reach also includes a vibration lottery for vibrating the normal button 40, and it can be said that the performance control microcomputer 121 performs a vibration lottery for vibrating the normal button 40 with the same winning probability as the reach establishment probability. The vibration of the normal button 40 when the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a reach state functions as a performance to celebrate the reaching of the reach. In addition, the reach completion probability (probability of the normal button 40 vibrating) is higher in the reach completion challenge effect during a jackpot fluctuation than in the reach completion challenge effect during a loss fluctuation, so if the reach completion (vibration of the normal button 40) can be generated with fewer operations, there is a higher chance of winning the jackpot.

In addition, even after the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in the reach state in the reach-established challenge performance, if all five operation performances have not ended, the remaining operation performances are executed. Then, in response to the operation of the normal button 40 in the remaining operation performances, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs a vibration lottery for the normal button 40. The probability of determining that the normal button 40 is vibrated in the vibration lottery after the reach is established (the winning probability of the vibration lottery) is different from the winning probability of the vibration lottery before the reach is established (the same probability as the reach establishment probability). Specifically, in the reach establishment challenge performance associated with the fluctuation of the non-transformation battle based on the big win, the winning probability of the vibration lottery after the reach is established (50%) is higher than the winning probability of the vibration lottery before the reach is established (33.3%). On the other hand, in the reach establishment challenge performance associated with the fluctuation of the non-transformation battle based on the miss, the winning probability of the vibration lottery after the reach is established (15%) is lower than the winning probability of the vibration lottery before the reach is established (25%). In other words, not only is the probability of the normal button 40 vibrating after a reach is reached higher when a jackpot is won than when a loss occurs, but when a jackpot is won, the normal button 40 is more likely to vibrate than before the reach is reached, and when a loss occurs, the normal button 40 is less likely to vibrate than before the reach is reached. Therefore, the vibration of the normal button 40 after a reach is reached functions as an effect that suggests a high probability of winning a jackpot. For this reason, even after a reach is reached in the reach-achieved challenge effect, the player is given the pleasure of operating the normal button 40 in the operation effect, which increases the player's interest in the game. Note that in the reach-achieved challenge effect, a button vibration effect may occur in which the normal button 40 vibrates in response to the operation of the normal button 40, and therefore the reach-achieved challenge effect can be said to be an effect that includes a button vibration effect.

Next, examples of the execution of reach-achieved challenge effects and battle effects (an example of a specific effect) will be described with reference to Figures 49-55.

<Reach establishment challenge performance> In the low probability low base state, the performance control microcomputer 121 can execute the reach establishment challenge performance. In the variable performance in which it is decided to execute the reach establishment challenge performance, the performance control microcomputer 121 executes the reach establishment challenge performance (FIG. 49 (C)) as soon as it starts to display the variable performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 (FIG. 49 (A) (B)). In the reach establishment challenge performance, first, a text image G80 of "Press the button to reach (5 chances)" is displayed. This text image G80 is a performance that indicates the start of the execution of the reach establishment challenge performance, and also a performance that indicates the content of the reach establishment challenge performance. The performance control microcomputer 121 displays the text image G80 for a predetermined time (for example, about 2 seconds) and then makes it non-displayed, and then performs the first operation performance as shown in FIG. 49 (D). In the operation presentation, an operation prompting image G81 is displayed to prompt the player to operate the normal button 40, a valid period image G82 indicates the valid period for operation, and a remaining number image G83 indicates the remaining number of operations in the reach establishment challenge presentation.

When the normal button 40 is operated in the first operation performance, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs a lottery to determine whether or not a reach will be achieved with the reach achievement probability shown in FIG. 48. In this example, it is determined that the lottery at the first operation of the normal button 40 will not achieve a reach. In this case, in response to the operation of the normal button 40, as shown in FIG. 49 (E), the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 are displayed as different types of performance patterns (for example, 4 and 8) while the center performance pattern EZ2 is displayed in a variable manner. This indicates that the reach has not been achieved. In addition, since the lottery for achieving a reach also includes a lottery for vibrating the normal button 40, if the reach is not achieved, the performance control microcomputer 121 does not vibrate the normal button 40 (FIG. 49 (E)).

Immediately after the first operation performance (FIG. 49(D)(E)) ends, the performance control microcomputer 121 changes and displays all the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 again to execute the second operation performance (FIG. 49(F)). If the normal button 40 is operated in the second operation performance, a lottery is also held to see whether a reach will be established. In this example, it is determined that a reach will not be established in the lottery held when the normal button 40 is operated for the second time. Therefore, when the normal button 40 is operated in the second operation performance, as shown in FIG. 49(G), the left performance symbol EZ1 and the right performance symbol EZ3 are displayed as different types of performance symbols (for example, 3 and 2), indicating that a reach has not been established, and the normal button 40 does not vibrate.

Immediately after the second operation performance (FIG. 49 (F) (G)) ends, the performance control microcomputer 121 changes and displays all the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 again, and executes the third operation performance (FIG. 49 (H)). Even if the normal button 40 is operated in the third operation performance, a lottery is held to determine whether a reach will be established. In this example, the lottery held when the normal button 40 is operated for the third time determines that a reach will be established. In this case, as shown in FIG. 50 (A), in response to the operation of the normal button 40, the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 are displayed as stopped with the same type of performance pattern (for example, 3 patterns) while the center performance pattern EZ2 is displayed in a changing manner, and the text image G84 of "Reach!" is displayed above the right performance pattern EZ3. This indicates that a reach has been established. In addition, when this reach is achieved, the performance control microcomputer 121 vibrates the normal button 40 (FIG. 50(A)). The achievement of this reach and the vibration of the normal button 40 suggest that the battle will progress to a non-transformation battle.

The reach-established challenge presentation includes five opportunities to operate the normal button 40. Therefore, even after the third operation presentation (FIGS. 49(H), 50(A)) in which the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 reach a reach state, the remaining two operation presentations occur. Therefore, immediately after the third operation presentation ends, the presentation control microcomputer 121 executes the fourth operation presentation, as shown in FIG. 50(B), with the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 still displayed in a reach state. In the operation presentation after the reach is established, an additional image G85 containing the words "Not yet" is added to the operation prompting image G81. This indicates to the player that the normal button 40 should be operated even after the reach is established.

If the normal button 40 is operated in the fourth operation presentation, only a lottery is held to see whether the normal button 40 will vibrate. In this example, it is assumed that the lottery held when the normal button 40 is operated the fourth time determines that the normal button 40 will not vibrate. In this case, even if the normal button 40 is operated, as shown in FIG. 50(C), images related to the operation presentation, such as the operation prompt image G81, will simply be hidden, and the normal button 40 will not vibrate.

Immediately after the fourth operation presentation (FIG. 50 (B) (C)) ends, the presentation control microcomputer 121 executes the fifth (last) operation presentation as shown in FIG. 50 (D) while displaying the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in the reach state. If the normal button 40 is operated in the fifth operation presentation, a lottery is also held to determine whether to vibrate the normal button 40. In this example, the lottery held when the normal button 40 is operated for the fifth time determines that the normal button 40 will vibrate. In this case, in response to the operation of the normal button 40, as shown in FIG. 50 (E), the operation presentation images such as the operation prompt image G81 are hidden and the normal button 40 is vibrated. This vibration of the normal button 40 after the reach is established suggests to the player that there is a high probability of winning the jackpot. As shown in FIG. 48, the vibration of the normal button 40 after a reach is reached is more likely to occur when a jackpot is won than when a jackpot is lost, so the more vibrations of the normal button 40 that occur after a reach is reached, the more likely it is that a jackpot will be won.

The reach establishment challenge effect ends with the end of the fifth operation effect (Figure 50 (D) (E)). If the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are in a reach state at the end of the reach establishment challenge effect (if a reach has been established), the development effect will then be executed as shown in Figure 50 (F).

<Development Presentation> When developing a variable presentation into a battle presentation, after the presentation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are in a reach state, a development presentation is performed before the battle presentation begins. In the development presentation, the player is shown which type of battle presentation will develop into. Specifically, in the development presentation, as shown in FIG. 51(A), the presentation control microcomputer 121 first moves the left presentation pattern EZ1 and the right presentation pattern EZ3, which form a reach, to the top of the display unit 50a, while displaying an image on the display unit 50a showing the main character about to transform.

If the transformation effect being performed is based on any of the transformation effect patterns SHP103, SHP104, SHP113, or SHP114 (transformation effect patterns that perform battle effects for non-transformation battles), then following the effect shown in FIG. 51(A), an image showing the main character not transformed (an image of the main character not transformed) is displayed on the display unit 50a (FIG. 51(B)). This suggests to the player that a battle effect for a non-transformation battle is being performed.

In contrast, if the transformation presentation being performed is based on any of the transformation presentation patterns SHP101, SHP102, SHP111, or SHP112 (a transformation presentation pattern that performs a transformation battle presentation), an image showing the main character's transformation (an image of the main character transformed into an armored knight) is displayed on the display unit 50a (Figure 51 (C)). This suggests to the player that a transformation battle presentation is taking place.

When the effect shown in FIG. 51(B) (i.e., an effect displaying an image of the main character that has not been transformed) has been performed, the effect control microcomputer 121 then performs an effect (opponent teasing effect) as shown in FIG. 51(D) that indicates whether the enemy character in the battle effect for a non-transformation battle (an example of a second specific effect) is enemy character A (the character on the left side of FIG. 51(D)) or enemy character B (the character on the right side of FIG. 51(D)).

On the other hand, when the effect shown in FIG. 51(C) (i.e., an effect displaying an image of the transformed main character) is performed, the effect control microcomputer 121 then performs an effect (opponent provocation effect) as shown in FIG. 51(E) that indicates whether the enemy character in the transformation battle battle effect (an example of a first specific effect) is enemy character X (the character on the left side of FIG. 51(E)) or enemy character Y (the character on the right side of FIG. 51(E)). Note that the opponent provocation effect is considered to be an advanced effect. From the player's perspective, the advanced effect can be considered as an effect that selects the type of battle effect to be executed.

In this embodiment of the pachinko game machine PZ2, when a reach-established challenge performance is being performed, the development performance always suggests that the battle will develop into a non-transformation battle (the performance shown in FIG. 51 (A) (B) (D) is executed), and does not suggest that the battle will develop into a transformation battle (the performance shown in FIG. 51 (A) (C) (E) is never executed). Even if the development performance suggests that the battle will develop into a non-transformation battle (even if the performance shown in FIG. 51 (A) (B) (D) is executed), if a reach-established challenge performance is being performed before this development performance, the expectation of winning the jackpot is sufficiently high, so the player can watch the non-transformation battle performance with strong anticipation.

<Battle Presentation> As shown in FIG. 52(A), when an opponent teasing presentation is executed to tease whether the enemy character in the battle presentation is enemy character A or enemy character B, if this change presentation is based on change presentation pattern SHP103 or SHP113 (change presentation pattern for a non-transformation battle presentation in which a battle is fought with enemy character A), as shown in FIG. 52(B), the presentation control microcomputer 121 starts a battle presentation in which a battle is fought with enemy character A. Specifically, a presentation image indicating that the untransformed main character will start a battle with enemy character A is displayed on the display unit 50a (FIG. 52(B)).

Then, an image of a battle scene in which the untransformed main character attacks enemy character A is displayed on the display unit 50a (Fig. 52(C)), and the player reaches a winning or losing branch. If the variable presentation being executed is based on variable presentation pattern SHP103 (variable presentation pattern based on winning a jackpot), as shown in Fig. 52(D), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing the main character defeating enemy character A on the display unit 50a, and stops and displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as a repeat number. This indicates to the player that he or she has won a jackpot.

On the other hand, if the variable presentation being executed is based on the variable presentation pattern SHP113 (variable presentation pattern based on a miss), as shown in FIG. 52(E), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing the main character being defeated by enemy character A on the display unit 50a, and stops and displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in a losing position (a losing reach). This indicates to the player that the result of the special chart lottery was a miss.

In addition, when an opponent teasing effect (see FIG. 52(A)) is executed to tease whether the enemy character in the battle performance is enemy character A or enemy character B, if this change performance is based on change performance pattern SHP104 or SHP114 (change performance pattern for a battle performance of a non-transformation battle in which a battle is fought with enemy character B), as shown in FIG. 53(A), the performance control microcomputer 121 starts a battle performance in which a battle is fought with enemy character B. Specifically, a performance image indicating that the untransformed main character will start a battle with enemy character B is displayed on the display unit 50a (FIG. 53(A)).

Then, an image of a battle scene in which the untransformed main character attacks enemy character B is displayed on the display unit 50a (Fig. 53(B)), and the player reaches a winning or losing branch. If the variable presentation being executed is based on variable presentation pattern SHP104 (variable presentation pattern based on winning a jackpot), as shown in Fig. 53(C), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing the main character defeating enemy character B on the display unit 50a, and stops and displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as a repeat number. This indicates to the player that he or she has won a jackpot.

On the other hand, if the variable presentation being executed is based on the variable presentation pattern SHP114 (variable presentation pattern based on a miss), as shown in FIG. 53(D), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing the main character being defeated by enemy character B on the display unit 50a, and stops and displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in a losing position (a losing reach). This indicates to the player that the result of the special chart lottery was a miss.

Also, at the end of the development performance, as shown in FIG. 54(A), if an opponent teasing performance is executed to tease whether the enemy character in the battle performance is enemy character X or enemy character Y, if this change performance is based on the change performance pattern SHP101 or SHP111 (change performance pattern of the battle performance of the transformation battle in which a battle is fought with enemy character X), as shown in FIG. 54(B), the performance control microcomputer 121 starts a battle performance in which a battle is fought with enemy character X. Specifically, a performance image indicating that the transformed main character will start a battle with enemy character X is displayed on the display unit 50a (FIG. 54(B)). Since the battle performance with enemy character X is the performance with the highest expectation of winning a jackpot among the four types of battle performances (battle with enemy character X, battle with enemy character Y, battle with enemy character A, and battle with enemy character B) (see FIG. 46 and FIG. 47), the performance indicating the start of a battle with enemy character X (performance shown in FIG. 54(B)) is executed, the player's expectation of winning a jackpot is increased.

In a battle presentation in which a battle takes place with enemy character X, the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays the image shown in FIG. 54(B) followed by an image of a battle scene in which the transformed main character attacks enemy character X on the display unit 50a (FIG. 54(C)), leading to a win/lose branch. If the variable presentation being executed is based on variable presentation pattern SHP101 (variable presentation pattern based on winning a jackpot), as shown in FIG. 54(D), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing the main character defeating enemy character X on the display unit 50a, and stops and displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as a repeat number. This indicates to the player that he or she has won a jackpot.

On the other hand, if the variable presentation being executed is based on the variable presentation pattern SHP111 (variable presentation pattern based on a miss), as shown in FIG. 54 (E), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing the main character being defeated by enemy character X on the display unit 50a, and stops and displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in a miss (reach miss). This indicates to the player that the result of the special chart lottery was a miss.

In addition, at the end of the development performance, if an opponent teasing performance (see FIG. 54(A)) is executed to tease whether the enemy character in the battle performance is enemy character X or enemy character Y, if this change performance is based on change performance pattern SHP102 or SHP112 (change performance pattern for a transformation battle performance in which a battle is fought with enemy character Y), as shown in FIG. 55(A), the performance control microcomputer 121 will start a battle performance in which a battle will be fought with enemy character Y. Specifically, a performance image indicating that the transformed main character will start a battle with enemy character Y is displayed on the display unit 50a (FIG. 55(A)).

In a battle presentation in which a battle takes place with enemy character Y, the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays the image shown in FIG. 55(A) followed by an image of a battle scene in which the transformed main character attacks enemy character Y on the display unit 50a (FIG. 55(B)), leading to a win/lose branch. If the variable presentation being executed is based on variable presentation pattern SHP102 (variable presentation pattern based on winning a jackpot), as shown in FIG. 55(C), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing the main character defeating enemy character Y on the display unit 50a, and stops and displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as a repeat number. This indicates to the player that he or she has won a jackpot.

In contrast, if the variable presentation being executed is based on variable presentation pattern SHP112 (variable presentation pattern based on a miss), then as shown in FIG. 55(D), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays an image showing the main character being defeated by enemy character Y on the display unit 50a, and stops and displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 at a miss (reach miss). This indicates to the player that the result of the special chart lottery was a miss.

8-2. Effect of the Second Embodiment As described above in detail, according to the pachinko game machine PZ2 of the second embodiment, the rate at which the normal button 40 vibrates in response to the operation of the normal button 40 (the rate at which the button vibration effect is executed) is different before and after the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, EZ3 are in the reach state (see FIG. 48), so that the enjoyment of operating the normal button 40 is different before and after the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, EZ3 are in the reach state, and increased interest can be expected.

In addition, according to the pachinko game machine PZ2 of the second embodiment, a button vibration effect that vibrates the normal button 40 in response to the operation of the normal button 40 is included in the reach-established challenge effect (opportunity effect) that creates hope for control to a jackpot game state, and when this reach-established challenge effect is executed, a non-transformation battle effect (second specific effect) with a lower jackpot expectation is executed instead of a transformation battle effect (first specific effect) (see Figures 48 to 50). Therefore, even when a non-transformation battle effect with a lower jackpot expectation is executed instead of a transformation battle effect, the degree of disappointment is mitigated by the execution of the reach-established challenge effect, and a decrease in interest can be prevented.

In addition, according to the pachinko game machine PZ2 of the second embodiment, when a reach-established challenge performance and a non-transformation battle performance are performed, the expectation of a jackpot is higher than when a non-transformation battle performance is performed without a reach-established challenge performance (see FIG. 48). Therefore, even when a non-transformation battle performance, which has a low expectation of a jackpot among the battle performances, is performed, it is possible to fully expect that the game will be controlled to a jackpot game state because a reach-established challenge performance is performed, and this is expected to increase interest.

8-3. Modifications of the Second Embodiment Below, modifications of the pachinko gaming machine PZ2 of the second embodiment will be described. Of course, the configurations of the modifications may be appropriately combined. Furthermore, the technical features of the above embodiment and the following modifications can be appropriately combined with the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PZ1 of the first embodiment described above and its modifications, as long as they do not interfere with the game. Note that the technical features of the above embodiment and the following modifications can be appropriately deleted unless they are described as essential in this specification.

In the second embodiment described above, the rate at which the operation unit vibrates is different depending on whether the operation unit (normal button 40) is operated before the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, EZ3 reach the reach state in the reach establishment challenge performance, and whether the operation unit is operated after the reach state is reached. However, the rate at which the light-emitting unit (such as an LED) built into the operation unit emits light may also be different depending on the operation of the operation unit. In this case, the light-emitting state in which the operation unit emits light or the non-light-emitting state in which it does not emit light corresponds to the state of the operation unit, and the light-emitting performance in which the operation unit emits light corresponds to the change performance. In addition to vibration/non-vibration of the operation unit, the state of the operation unit that changes in the change performance can be changed as appropriate to rotation/non-rotation of the operation unit, movement/non-movement in a specified direction (standby), reciprocation/non-movement along a specified direction (standby), etc.

In the second embodiment, the operation unit that is the target of the operation before the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 reach a reach state and after the reach state is reached is the normal button 40, but it may be another operation unit such as the special button 41.

In the second embodiment, two types of transformation battle effects (first specific effects) were provided for the transformed main character, one in which the main character fights enemy character X, and one in which the main character fights enemy character Y. However, the configuration may be such that only one of these effects is executable, or a further type may be provided, such as one in which the main character fights enemy character Z.

In the second embodiment, two types of battle effects (second specific effects) were provided for non-transformation battles in which the untransformed main character fights enemy character A and enemy character B, but it is also possible to configure the game so that only one of these effects is executable, or to provide yet another type, such as a battle with enemy character C.

In the second embodiment, when a reach-achieved challenge effect is executed and a battle effect is executed, a battle effect for a non-transformation battle is always executed, but a battle effect for a transformation battle may also be executed. In other words, a battle effect when a reach-achieved challenge effect is executed may be selected from the battle effects for a transformation battle (first specific effect).

In the second embodiment, the battle performance in which the main character battles the enemy character and the result of the battle is announced as a specific performance, but the specific performance may be a preview performance that suggests the control expectation for an advantageous state. Specifically, for example, a first cut-in preview performance that displays an image of the main character and a second cut-in preview performance that displays an image of the enemy character (preview performance with a lower expectation of a jackpot than the first cut-in preview performance) may be executable, and the first cut-in preview performance may include a blue first cut-in preview performance with a blue border on the image and a red first cut-in preview performance with a red border on the image (first cut-in preview performance with a higher expectation of a jackpot than the blue first cut-in preview performance), and the second cut-in preview performance may include a blue second cut-in preview performance with a blue border on the image and a red second cut-in preview performance with a red border on the image (second cut-in preview performance with a higher expectation of a jackpot than the blue second cut-in preview performance).

In the second embodiment, even if the reach-achieved challenge performance is not performed, the reach-achieved challenge performance may be achieved in the variation performance and a non-transformation battle performance may be executed, but the reach-achieved challenge performance may be always executed in the variation performance in which a non-transformation battle performance is executed. By configuring it in this way, it is possible to further reduce the disappointment of the player when the main character does not transform.

In the second embodiment, the reach-achievement challenge effect (opportunity effect) that creates anticipation of a jackpot gaming state includes a change effect (button vibration effect) that changes the state of the operation unit, but the change effect (button vibration effect) does not have to be executed as an effect that creates anticipation of a jackpot gaming state. This is because even an effect in which the operation unit (normal button 40) vibrates can be expected to have a certain effect of exciting the game, regardless of the degree of expectation of a jackpot.

In the second embodiment, in the variable performance based on the winning of a jackpot, the probability that the normal button 40 vibrates in response to an operation after the reach is established is higher than the probability that the normal button 40 vibrates in response to an operation before the reach is established in the reach establishment challenge performance, and in the variable performance based on a miss, the probability that the normal button 40 vibrates in response to an operation after the reach is established is lower than the probability that the normal button 40 vibrates in response to an operation before the reach is established in the reach establishment challenge performance (see FIG. 48), but the occurrence probability of the button vibration performance (change performance) can be changed as appropriate. Specifically, for example, in the variable performance based on the winning of a jackpot or the variable performance based on a miss, the probability that the normal button 40 vibrates in response to an operation after the reach is established may be higher than the probability that the normal button 40 vibrates in response to an operation before the reach is established in the reach establishment challenge performance, or conversely, may be lower. However, in either configuration, it is preferable that the variable performance based on the winning of a jackpot has a higher probability of vibrating the normal button 40 than the variable performance based on a miss. This is because the vibration of the normal button 40 can be made to function as an indication that there is a high probability of winning a jackpot. However, if this is not taken into consideration, the probability that the normal button 40 will vibrate in response to an operation before the reach is reached in the reach-achievement challenge presentation, and the probability that the normal button 40 will vibrate in response to an operation after the reach is reached, may be configured to have the same probability for the variation presentation based on a jackpot win and the variation presentation based on a miss.

In addition, in the second embodiment, the number of times that the operation effect occurs during the reach-achieved challenge effect can be changed as appropriate as long as it occurs multiple times.

9. Pachinko Game Machine of the Third Embodiment 9-1. Configuration of the Third Embodiment Next, the pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment having a characteristic configuration will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 56-FIG. 70, focusing on the differences from the pachinko game machine PY1 of the basic form described above. As shown in FIG. 56, the pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment is provided with not only the gate 13 arranged in the right game area 6B and through which a game ball hit from the right can pass, but also the second gate 18 arranged in the left game area 6A and through which a game ball hit from the left can pass, as a passageway that triggers the selection of a normal symbol. The second gate 18 is provided with a second gate sensor 18a that can detect the passage of the game ball. When the game ball passes through the second gate 18 (when the game ball is detected by the second gate sensor 18a), the game control microcomputer 101 performs the same processing as when the game ball passes through the gate 13. That is, the game control microcomputer 101 acquires a random number related to the normal map (see FIG. 10A) based on the passage through the second gate 18. In this embodiment, the upper limit of the number of normal map reservations that can be stored in the normal map reservation memory unit 106 (the number of normal map reservations) is "4".

Next, the "win determination table", "auxiliary game control table", "regular pattern change determination table", and "regular pattern pre-reading determination table" according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 57. The pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment performs a regular pattern lottery by determining the regular pattern related random number (regular pattern random number) obtained based on the passage of the game ball through the gate 13 or the second gate 18 according to the win determination table shown in FIG. 57(A). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 57(A), in the non-time-saving state, if the value of the regular pattern random number is 1 to 1100, it is determined that the "first winning pattern" has been won, if the value of the regular pattern random number is 1101 to 6600, it is determined that the "second winning pattern" has been won, and if the value of the regular pattern random number is not 1 to 6600, it is determined that it is a miss (a missing pattern). In response to this, in the time-saving state, the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the "first winning symbol" has been won if the value of the normal symbol random number is between 1 and 1100, determines that the "second winning symbol" has been won if the value of the normal symbol random number is between 1101 and 55936, and determines that the winning symbol is a miss (missing symbol) if the value of the normal symbol random number is not between 1 and 55936. Thus, in this embodiment, the probability of winning the normal symbol lottery in the time-saving state is much higher than the probability of winning the normal symbol lottery in the non-time-saving state. Also, in this embodiment, there are two types of winning symbols that can be won in the normal symbol lottery: the first winning symbol and the second winning symbol. The difference in the type of winning symbol affects the opening pattern of the electric chute 12D (an example of a variable ball entry device) in the auxiliary game.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 57(B), in the pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment, when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as the first winning symbol (when the first winning symbol is selected in the normal symbol lottery), in the non-time-saving state, an auxiliary game is executed in which the electric chute 12D is opened once for 4000 ms, whereas when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as the second winning symbol (when the second winning symbol is selected in the normal symbol lottery), an auxiliary game is executed in which the electric chute 12D is opened once for 8 ms. Therefore, in the non-time-saving state, in the auxiliary game based on the first winning symbol, the player can make the game ball enter the second start hole 12 related to the electric chute 12D by hitting to the right, but in the auxiliary game based on the second winning symbol, even if the player hits to the right, the opening time of the electric chute 12D is extremely short, so it is impossible or extremely difficult to make the game ball enter the second start hole 12.

In contrast, in the time-saving state, the pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment executes an auxiliary game in which the electric chute 12D is opened once for 4000 ms, whether the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as the first winning symbol or the second winning symbol. Therefore, in the time-saving state, whether the auxiliary game is based on the first winning symbol or the second winning symbol, the player can easily place the game ball in the second starting hole 12 related to the electric chute 12D by hitting to the right.

The opening of the electric chute 12D based on the first winning symbol in the non-time-saving state is referred to as a long opening of the electric chute 12D in the non-time-saving state.

Next, the normal pattern variation pattern (normal pattern variation pattern) will be described based on FIG. 57(C). As shown in FIG. 57(C), in the pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment, when the result of the normal pattern lottery in the non-time-saving state is the first winning pattern, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the normal pattern variation pattern FHP001 with a 13-second normal pattern variation time. When the result of the normal pattern lottery in the non-time-saving state is the second winning pattern, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the normal pattern variation pattern FHP002 with a 30-second normal pattern variation time. When the result of the normal pattern lottery in the non-time-saving state is a losing pattern, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the normal pattern variation pattern FHP003 with a 13-second normal pattern variation time with a 2% probability, and selects the normal pattern variation pattern FHP004 with a 30-second normal pattern variation time with a 98% probability. The normal symbol fluctuation pattern random number used to select the normal symbol fluctuation pattern is acquired by the game control microcomputer 101 when the game ball passes through the gate 13 or the second gate 18, and is stored in the normal symbol reserve memory unit 106 together with the normal symbol random number. The normal symbol fluctuation pattern random number is included in the normal symbol related random numbers, just like the normal symbol random number.

When normal symbol variation pattern FHP001 is selected, and when normal symbol variation pattern FHP003 is selected, a roulette effect is executed in conjunction with the display of the normal symbol variation, unless a specific prohibition condition (described in detail later) is met. The roulette effect is an effect that can give the player hope for a long opening of the electric chute 12D in a non-time-saving state. The roulette effect will be described later.

In the pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 57(C), when the result of the normal symbol lottery in the time-saving state is the first winning symbol, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the normal symbol variation pattern FHP101 with a 5-second normal symbol variation time. Also, when the result of the normal symbol lottery in the time-saving state is the second winning symbol, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the normal symbol variation pattern FHP102 with a 5-second normal symbol variation time. Also, when the result of the normal symbol lottery in the time-saving state is a losing symbol, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the normal symbol variation pattern FHP104 with a 5-second normal symbol variation time. In other words, in the time-saving state, whether the result of the normal symbol lottery is a winning symbol or a losing symbol, a normal symbol variation time that is extremely shorter than in the non-time-saving state is selected. As a result, in the time-saving state, the normal symbol lottery is executed more frequently than in the non-time-saving state.

The information on the normal symbol fluctuation pattern determined according to the normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 57(C) is included in the normal symbol fluctuation start command sent from the game control microcomputer 101 to the presentation control microcomputer 121 when the normal symbol fluctuation display starts. The presentation control microcomputer 121 can execute a roulette presentation if the normal symbol fluctuation pattern indicated by the received normal symbol fluctuation start command is FHP001 or FHP003.

Next, the normal map read-ahead judgment table will be explained based on FIG. 57 (D). In the pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment, when the game control microcomputer 101 obtains a normal map related random number based on the passage of the game ball through the gate 13 or the second gate 18, it identifies a normal map read-ahead command according to the normal map read-ahead judgment table shown in FIG. 57 (D) and sends it to the performance control microcomputer 121.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 57(D), in the non-time-saving state, if the acquired normal-related random numbers (normal-pattern random numbers, normal-pattern change pattern random numbers) are to be determined as the "first winning pattern" and "normal-pattern change pattern FHP001", the game control microcomputer 101 identifies command 801 as a normal-pattern read-ahead command and sends it to the performance control microcomputer 121. Also, if the acquired normal-related random numbers are to be determined as the "second winning pattern" and "normal-pattern change pattern FHP002", the game control microcomputer 101 identifies command 802 as a normal-pattern read-ahead command and sends it to the performance control microcomputer 121. Also, if the acquired normal-related random numbers are to be determined as the "loss pattern" and "normal-pattern change pattern FHP003", the game control microcomputer 101 identifies command 803 as a normal-pattern read-ahead command and sends it to the performance control microcomputer 121. In addition, if the acquired normal pattern related random number is expected to be determined as a "missing pattern" and "normal pattern change pattern FHP004," the game control microcomputer 101 identifies command 804 as a normal pattern pre-reading command and sends it to the performance control microcomputer 121. This allows the performance control microcomputer 121 to know in advance how the occurring normal pattern reservation will be determined at the start of the normal pattern change based on the normal pattern reservation in the non-time-saving state.

Also, in the time-saving state, if the acquired normal-related random numbers (normal-pattern random numbers, normal-pattern change pattern random numbers) are to be determined as the "first winning pattern" and "normal-pattern change pattern FHP101", the game control microcomputer 101 identifies command 901 as a normal-pattern read-ahead command and sends it to the performance control microcomputer 121. Also, if the acquired normal-related random numbers are to be determined as the "second winning pattern" and "normal-pattern change pattern FHP102", the game control microcomputer 101 identifies command 902 as a normal-pattern read-ahead command and sends it to the performance control microcomputer 121. Also, if the acquired normal-related random numbers are to be determined as the "loss pattern" and "normal-pattern change pattern FHP104", the game control microcomputer 101 identifies command 904 as a normal-pattern read-ahead command and sends it to the performance control microcomputer 121. This allows the performance control microcomputer 121 to know in advance how the occurring general map reserve will be judged at the start of the general map fluctuation based on that general map reserve, even in the time-saving state.

Next, a specific example of a roulette presentation that may be executed when the presentation control microcomputer 121 receives a normal pattern variation start command from the game control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG. 58. FIG. 58 (A) shows a state in which the presentation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a low probability non-time-saving state (normal game state). In this situation, when the normal pattern variation pattern indicated by the normal pattern variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is FHP001 (the 13-second normal pattern variation pattern when the first winning pattern is drawn, see FIG. 57 (C)) or FHP003 (the 13-second normal pattern variation pattern when a losing pattern is drawn), the presentation control microcomputer 121 starts a roulette presentation when the normal pattern variation display is performed. In the roulette effect, first, as shown in FIG. 58(B), a text image G90 of "ROULETTE START!" is displayed in the upper right corner of the display unit 50a, and an image of a roulette (roulette image G91) with a window that displays the effect result is displayed below this text image G90. Then, after a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed, the text image G90 of "ROULETTE START!" is hidden, and the roulette image G91 with the roulette (reel) spinning within the window is displayed for a predetermined time (e.g., 4 seconds) (FIG. 58(C)).

Then, when the roulette presentation is based on the normal pattern variation pattern FHP003 (the normal pattern variation pattern related to the losing pattern), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays the "X" symbol, which indicates that the electric chute 12D is not opened and is a losing combination, as shown in FIG. 58(D) as the result of the roulette presentation. In other words, it displays the roulette image G91 with the "X" symbol stopped in the window.

On the other hand, in the case of a roulette presentation based on the normal pattern FHP001 (normal pattern for the first winning pattern), the presentation control microcomputer 121 stops and displays the "◯" pattern, which indicates that the electric chute 12D will be long-opened, as a result of the roulette presentation, as shown in FIG. 58(E) after the presentation of FIG. 58(C). That is, a roulette image G91 in which the "◯" pattern is stopped in the window is displayed. When the "◯" pattern is derived and displayed in the roulette presentation (FIG. 58(E)), a right-hit image G108 is displayed to encourage the player to hit the right when performing the auxiliary game to long-open the electric chute 12D, and a text image G92 saying "Aim for the electric chute!" is displayed in the upper right corner of the display unit 50a (FIG. 58(F)). When a player sees the presentation shown in FIG. 58(E)(F), he or she can hit the right to generate a win in the second starting hole 12 related to the electric chute 12D. In this specification, the roulette effect that finally stops and displays the symbol "o" is referred to as the roulette effect (o), and the roulette effect that finally stops and displays the symbol "x" is referred to as the roulette effect (x), and these two roulette effects are collectively referred to as the roulette effect (o x). The roulette effect (o) is an example of a predetermined effect.

Next, the determination of the special chart variation pattern for special chart 1 in the low probability non-time shortening state in the pachinko gaming machine PZ3 of the third embodiment will be described. Note that, in the pachinko gaming machine PZ3 of the third embodiment, as in the pachinko gaming machine PZ1 of the first embodiment described above, the types of jackpots that can be won in the lottery of special chart 1 based on winning in the first starting hole 11 include jackpot pattern 1 and jackpot pattern 2, and the types of jackpots that can be won in the lottery of special chart 2 based on winning in the second starting hole 12 include jackpot pattern 3 and jackpot pattern 4, as shown in FIG. 30.

In the third embodiment of the pachinko game machine PZ3, in a low probability non-time shortening state (low probability low base game state), the special pattern 1 variation pattern is determined according to the special pattern 1 variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 59. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 59, when the result of the jackpot determination is "jackpot", the game control microcomputer 101 selects "THP301" as the special pattern 1 variation pattern 50% of the time, "THP302" as the special pattern 1 variation pattern 35% of the time, and "THP303" as the special pattern 1 variation pattern 15% of the time, even if the result of the jackpot pattern type determination is "jackpot pattern 1" or "jackpot pattern 2".

In addition, when the result of the jackpot determination is not "jackpot" and the result of the reach determination is "reach", the game control microcomputer 101 selects "THP311" as the special chart 1 variation pattern at a rate of 10%, "THP312" at a rate of 20%, and "THP313" at a rate of 70%.

In addition, when the result of the jackpot determination is not a "jackpot" and the result of the reach determination is "no reach," the game control microcomputer 101 can determine one of two types of special chart 1 variation patterns, "THP321" or "THP322." The number of reserved special charts 1 determines which of these special chart 1 variation patterns to determine.

When the number of reserved special charts 1 is between "0" and "2", "THP321" with a fluctuation time of 13,000 ms is selected 95% of the time, and "THP322" with a fluctuation time of 8,000 ms is selected 5% of the time. Also, when the number of reserved special charts 1 is between "3" and "4", "THP321" with a fluctuation time of 13,000 ms is selected 20% of the time, and "THP322" with a fluctuation time of 8,000 ms is selected 80% of the time. In other words, when the result of the jackpot judgment is "miss" and the result of the reach judgment is "no reach", the smaller the number of reserved special charts 1, the more likely it is that a fluctuation pattern with a longer fluctuation time will be selected.

The allocation rate for each special chart variation pattern can be changed as appropriate. The types of special chart variation patterns can also be increased or decreased as appropriate, as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

Here, the special chart 1 variation patterns "THP301", "THP302", and "THP303" are "SP jackpot variations" in which a reach is established and develops into an SP reach. In the variation presentation based on each of these special chart 1 variation patterns, the introductory part of the SP reach is presented after the reach is established. Up to this point, each special chart 1 variation pattern has in common. In the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP301", the introductory part of the SP reach is presented (referred to as the introductory part), followed by the third SP reach, in the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP302", the introductory part of the SP reach is presented, followed by the second SP reach, and in the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP303", the introductory part of the SP reach is presented, followed by the first SP reach. In other words, in the variation effects based on each special chart variation pattern related to the SP jackpot variation, the introductory part of the SP reach is the same, but the content of the subsequent variations (called the development variations) differs, such as the 3rd SP reach, the 2nd SP reach, and the 1st SP reach. The jackpot variation that produces the 3rd SP reach is called the "3rd SP jackpot variation," the jackpot variation that produces the 2nd SP reach is called the "2nd SP jackpot variation," and the jackpot variation that produces the 1st SP reach is called the "1st SP jackpot variation." In any case of the SP jackpot variation, the variation patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are ultimately displayed as a double number, and a jackpot win is announced.

In addition, the special chart 1 variation patterns "THP311", "THP312", and "THP313" are "SP miss variations" in which a reach is established and develops into an SP reach. In the variation presentation based on each of these special chart 1 variation patterns, the introductory part of the SP reach is presented (introduction presentation) after the reach is established. In the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP311", the introductory part of the SP reach is followed by the third SP reach, in the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP312", the introductory part of the SP reach is followed by the second SP reach, and in the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP313", the introductory part of the SP reach is followed by the first SP reach. In other words, in the variation effects based on each special chart variation pattern related to the SP miss variation, the introductory part of the SP reach is the same, but the content of the performance that unfolds after that differs, such as the 3rd SP reach, the 2nd SP reach, and the 1st SP reach. A miss variation that results in a 3rd SP reach is called the "3rd SP miss variation," a miss variation that results in a 2nd SP reach is called the "2nd SP miss variation," and a miss variation that results in a 1st SP reach is called the "1st SP miss variation." Regardless of which SP miss variation it is, the final display of the EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 performance symbols stops at the reach miss eye, and a miss is announced.

In addition, the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP321" is a "normal S miss variation," and the special chart 1 variation pattern "THP322" is a "normal T miss variation." These special chart 1 variation patterns are special chart variation patterns in which the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 do not reach a win and end with a miss.

In this embodiment, the special chart 1 variation pattern in the low probability non-time shortening state is selected according to the distribution rate shown in FIG. 59. In other words, if a jackpot is won, the 3rd SP jackpot variation (THP301) is most likely to be selected, the 2nd SP jackpot variation (THP302) is next most likely to be selected, and the 1st SP jackpot variation (THP303) is the least likely to be selected. In contrast, if there is a reach and a miss, the 3rd SP miss variation (THP311) is the least likely to be selected, the 2nd SP miss variation (THP312) is next most likely to be selected, and the 1st SP miss variation (THP313) is most likely to be selected. Therefore, the jackpot expectation rate of each SP reach is 3rd SP reach > 2nd SP reach > 1st SP reach. The first SP reach is an example of a normal development effect, while the second SP reach and the third SP reach are examples of a special development effect.

Next, the pre-reading judgment for the special chart 1 in the low probability non-time-saving state will be explained based on FIG. 60. When a win occurs in the first start hole 11 in the low probability non-time-saving state, the game control microcomputer 101 identifies the start winning command based on the special chart 1 pre-reading judgment table shown in FIG. 60. As shown in FIG. 60, when the game control microcomputer 101 judges that a jackpot is expected to be won and that the third SP jackpot variation is expected to be selected as the pre-reading judgment, it selects command 301 as the start winning command. Also, when the pre-reading judgment determines that a jackpot is expected to be won and that the second SP jackpot variation is expected to be selected as the pre-reading judgment, it selects command 302 as the start winning command. Also, when the pre-reading judgment determines that a jackpot is expected to be won and that the first SP jackpot variation is expected to be selected as the pre-reading judgment, it selects command 303 as the start winning command.

When the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the game is going to have a miss with a reach based on the pre-reading judgment, and that the third SP miss variation is going to be selected, it selects command 311 as the start winning command. When the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the game is going to have a miss with a reach based on the pre-reading judgment, and that the second SP miss variation is going to be selected, it selects command 312 as the start winning command. When the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the game is going to have a miss with a reach based on the pre-reading judgment, and that the first SP miss variation is going to be selected, it selects command 313 as the start winning command. When the game control microcomputer 101 determines that the game is going to have a miss with no reach based on the pre-reading judgment, it selects command 321 as the start winning command. In this way, the start winning command includes winning/losing information on whether or not it is a jackpot, and information on the special chart variation pattern.

In the low probability non-time-saving state, when the performance control microcomputer 121 receives a start winning command from the game control microcomputer 101, it performs a lottery to execute the character gathering performance based on the execution lottery table of the character gathering performance shown in FIG. 61. The character gathering performance is a type of look-ahead performance executed based on the result of a look-ahead judgment, and is a performance in which characters are gradually gathered in a range of one to five people (see FIG. 66). If the final number of gathered characters in the character gathering performance is three or more, a preview performance (character preview performance) is executed using the gathered characters. The character gathering performance is a performance that can be executed over multiple changes from a change based on a special chart reservation stored before the target reservation (the special chart reservation that triggered the execution of the look-ahead performance) to a change based on the target reservation. Specific examples of the character gathering performance will be described later.

In the lottery for executing the character gathering effect, as shown in FIG. 61, the effect control microcomputer 121 decides to execute the character gathering effect 70% of the time and not to execute it 30% of the time, regardless of whether the start winning command received is command 301 (a command indicating the planned execution of a third SP jackpot fluctuation), command 302 (a command indicating the planned execution of a second SP jackpot fluctuation), or command 303 (a command indicating the planned execution of a first SP jackpot fluctuation).

In addition, the performance control microcomputer 121 decides to execute the character gathering performance 30% of the time and not to execute it 70% of the time, regardless of whether the start winning command received is command 311 (a command indicating the planned execution of a third SP failure variation), command 312 (a command indicating the planned execution of a second SP failure variation), or command 313 (a command indicating the planned execution of a first SP failure variation).

In addition, if the start winning command received is command 321 (a command indicating the scheduled execution of a normal losing variation), the performance control microcomputer 121 decides to execute the character gathering performance 3% of the time and not to execute it 97% of the time.

In this way, in this embodiment, the character gathering effect is more likely to be executed when the pre-reading judgment result is a jackpot win than when the pre-reading judgment result is a miss. Therefore, the character gathering effect functions as an effect that creates anticipation of a jackpot win or an effect that suggests a high probability of a jackpot win. Also, not only when the pre-reading judgment result is that an SP reach is planned, but also when the pre-reading judgment result is that a normal miss variation is planned in which no reach is achieved, it may be decided to execute the character gathering effect, although with an extremely low probability, so the character gathering effect is not designed to function as an effect that suggests the confirmation of an SP reach.

If it is decided in the execution lottery for the character gathering effect that a character gathering effect will be executed, the effect control microcomputer 121 then determines the number of characters to be finally assembled in the character gathering effect (referred to as the "final number of assembled characters") based on the table shown in FIG. 62. Specifically, if it is decided to execute a character gathering effect based on the result of a pre-reading judgment that a normal miss variation is scheduled to be executed, the final number of characters is determined to be "1" 50% of the time, and "2" 50% of the time. Note that if the final number of assembled characters is "1" or "2", the character gathering effect will not be followed by a character preview effect, and the variation effect based on the reserved target will end without a reach being achieved.

When the performance control microcomputer 121 determines to execute a character gathering performance based on a look-ahead determination result that a first SP fluctuation (first SP jackpot fluctuation, first SP miss fluctuation) is scheduled to be executed, it determines the final number of characters to be "3" 55% of the time, "4" 30% of the time, and "5" 15% of the time. When the performance control microcomputer 121 determines to execute a character gathering performance based on a look-ahead determination result that a second SP fluctuation (second SP jackpot fluctuation, second SP miss fluctuation) is scheduled to be executed, it determines the final number of characters to be "3" 25% of the time, "4" 40% of the time, and "5" 35% of the time. Furthermore, if it is decided to execute a character gathering effect based on the results of a pre-reading judgment indicating that a 3rd SP fluctuation (3rd SP big win fluctuation, 3rd SP miss fluctuation) is scheduled to be executed, the final number of characters will be determined to be "3" 10% of the time, "4" 40% of the time, and "5" 50% of the time.

If the final number of assembled characters is three or more, a character preview performance according to the final number of assembled characters is performed following the character assembly performance. In this embodiment, if the final number of assembled characters is "3", a character preview performance is performed in which the three characters assembled in the character assembly performance will perform a "band performance". If the final number of assembled characters is "4", a character preview performance is performed in which the four characters assembled in the character assembly performance will perform a "relay". If the final number of assembled characters is "5", a character preview performance is performed in which the five characters assembled in the character assembly performance will perform a "triathlon". The band performance character preview performance is an example of a "first performance in which characters are displayed in a first display mode", and the triathlon character preview performance is an example of a "second performance in which characters are displayed in a second display mode".

There are success and failure modes in the character preview performances for all of the "band performance," "relay," and "triathlon" content. In other words, the character preview performance for band performance has a success mode in which three characters attempt a band performance and succeed in the performance, and a failure mode in which they fail to perform; the character preview performance for relay has a success mode in which four characters attempt a relay and succeed in passing the baton to the final runner, and a failure mode in which they fail to pass the baton; and the character preview performance for triathlon has a success mode in which five characters attempt a triathlon and succeed in passing the baton to the final runner, and a failure mode in which they fail to pass the baton.

If the target reservation of the character gathering performance is a special pattern reservation that is scheduled to execute the first SP change, the failure mode is executed regardless of whether the character preview performance is a "band performance", "relay", or "triathlon". On the other hand, if the target reservation of the character gathering performance is a special pattern reservation that is scheduled to execute the second SP change or the third SP change, the success mode is executed regardless of whether the character preview performance is a "band performance", "relay", or "triathlon". In other words, in this form, the character preview performance of the failure mode functions as a suggestion that the first SP reach will be performed, and the character preview performance of the success mode functions as a suggestion that either the second SP reach, which has a higher expectation of a jackpot than the first SP reach, or the third SP reach, which has a higher expectation of a jackpot than the second SP reach, will be performed. The character gathering performance and the following character preview performance are collectively referred to as the character performance. The character performance is a performance that uses characters, and can be said to be a performance that suggests the type of SP reach to be executed.

Here, the distribution rate of the final number of assembled characters in the character assembly performance (in other words, the content of the character preview performance) is as shown in FIG. 62. Therefore, the character preview performance is more likely to succeed when the final number of assembled characters is "4" (i.e., when the relay character preview performance is executed) or when the final number of assembled characters is "5" (i.e., when the triathlon character preview performance is executed) than when the final number of assembled characters is "3" (i.e., when the band performance character preview performance is executed). In other words, the second SP reach or the third SP reach is more likely to be executed. Also, the character preview performance is more likely to succeed when the final number of assembled characters is "5" (i.e., when the triathlon character preview performance is executed) than when the final number of assembled characters is "4" (i.e., when the relay character preview performance is executed). And when the successful triathlon character preview performance is executed, the third SP reach is more likely to be executed than the second SP reach. In other words, the triathlon character preview effect functions as an effect that makes you expect the third SP reach, which has the highest chance of winning among the three types of SP reaches, to be executed, or as an effect that suggests that the second SP reach is easier to execute than the first SP reach, or as an effect that suggests that the third SP reach is easier to execute than the second SP reach. Conversely, the band performance character preview effect functions as an effect that suggests that the character preview effect will result in a failure and that the first SP reach, which has the lowest chance of winning among the three types of SP reaches, will be executed, or as an effect that suggests that the second SP reach is easier to execute than the third SP reach, or as an effect that suggests that the first SP reach is easier to execute than the second SP reach.

Next, we will explain the roulette presentation based on the results of the special chart lottery. In this form of pachinko game machine PZ3, the presentation control microcomputer 121 may execute a roulette presentation to suggest a high probability of winning based on the special chart 1 variation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101. This roulette presentation is similar to the roulette presentation based on the above-mentioned regular chart variation start command, but differs in that the pattern that is finally displayed is a pattern consisting of the character "heat" (see Figure 64). This roulette presentation may be referred to as roulette presentation (heat).

In the lottery for executing the roulette effect (heat), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not to execute the roulette effect (heat) according to the table shown in FIG. 63. Specifically, when the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 fluctuation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP301 (third SP jackpot fluctuation), the effect control microcomputer 121 executes the roulette effect (heat) 40% of the time and does not execute it 60% of the time. Also, when the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 fluctuation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP302 (second SP jackpot fluctuation), the effect control microcomputer 121 executes the roulette effect (heat) 20% of the time and does not execute it 80% of the time.

In addition, when the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 fluctuation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP311 (third SP miss fluctuation) or THP312 (second SP miss fluctuation), the presentation control microcomputer 121 executes the roulette presentation (heat) 5% of the time and does not execute it 95% of the time.

In addition, the presentation control microcomputer 121 will not execute the roulette presentation (heat) if the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the special chart 1 fluctuation start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is THP303 (first SP jackpot fluctuation), THP313 (first SP miss fluctuation), THP321 (normal S miss fluctuation), or THP322 (normal T miss fluctuation).

In this manner, in this embodiment, the roulette presentation (heat) can be performed only when the variation results in either the third SP reach or the second SP reach. The roulette presentation (heat) is performed with a higher probability in the case of a big win variation than in the case of a miss variation. Thus, the roulette presentation (heat) functions as a definite notification that either the third SP reach or the second SP reach will be performed, and also functions as a presentation suggesting that there is a high expectation of a big win. The roulette presentation (heat) is performed with a higher probability in the case of a variation results in the third SP reach than in the case of a variation results in the second SP reach. Thus, the roulette presentation (heat) functions as a presentation suggesting that there is a high expectation of a third SP reach.

Next, a specific example of the roulette effect (heat) will be described based on FIG. 64. In the variation where it is decided to execute the roulette effect (heat) in the execution lottery of the roulette effect (heat), the microcomputer 121 for effect control starts the roulette effect while the variation display of the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 is being performed (FIG. 64 (A) (B)). In this roulette effect, first, as shown in FIG. 64 (B), a text image G90 of "ROULETTE START!" is displayed in the upper right part of the display unit 50a, and an image of a roulette (roulette image G91) having a window for displaying the performance result is displayed below this text image G90. Then, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed, the text image G90 of "ROULETTE START!" is hidden, and the roulette image G91 in which the roulette (reel) is spinning within the window is displayed for a predetermined time (for example, 4 seconds) (FIG. 64 (C)).

Then, as shown in FIG. 64(D), the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays the "Heat" symbol as a result of the roulette presentation. That is, it displays a roulette image G91 in which the "Heat" symbol is stopped within the window. By displaying the "Heat" symbol, the player can recognize that this variation will result in a 3rd SP reach or 2nd SP reach, and that there is a high probability of a jackpot being won with this variation.

In this embodiment, the microcomputer 121 for controlling the effects can execute two roulette effects: a "roulette effect (heat)" that makes the player expect a big win based on a special symbol selection, and a "roulette effect (o/x)" that makes the player expect a long opening of the electric chute 12D based on a normal symbol selection. Both roulette effects have the same effect content until the symbols are finally stopped and displayed, making it difficult for the player to distinguish between them (see Figures 58 and 64). Considering that the timing of the passage of the game ball through the second gate 18 when playing from the left is random, and that the player does not always look at the second gate 18 while playing, it is thought that the player will not be able to correctly distinguish which type of roulette effect has been performed every time a roulette effect is started. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the roulette effect is executed and you are expecting either a "circle" or an "x" to be displayed, the "heat" symbol is displayed, instantly raising your expectations for a big win, which increases your interest in the game.

However, in this embodiment, the microcomputer 121 for controlling the effects can execute both the "roulette effect (heat)" for the special drawing and the "roulette effect (o/x)" for the regular drawing. If both effects were allowed to be executed without limit, the effects would become cumbersome, which would in turn reduce interest in the game. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine PZ3 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 65, two conditions (first prohibition condition, second prohibition condition) are set as conditions for restricting the execution of the roulette effect (heat), and two conditions (first prohibition condition, second prohibition condition) are also set as conditions for restricting the execution of the roulette effect (o/x).

Specifically, the first prohibition condition for the roulette effect (heat) is that among the generated regular reserves, there is a regular reserve (called a specific regular reserve) that is scheduled to be determined as the first winning pattern. If there is a specific regular reserve, it can be said that there is already a plan to perform a "roulette effect (◯)" (Fig. 58 (B) (C) (E)). In such a case, even if it is decided to perform a roulette effect (heat) in the lottery (Fig. 63) at the start of the special chart fluctuation (at the start of the fluctuation performance), the performance control microcomputer 121 does not execute the roulette effect (heat). Note that the configuration may be such that the lottery for executing the roulette effect (heat) is not performed at all.

The second prohibited condition for the roulette effect (heat) is that the regular pattern for the first winning symbol is changing (the regular pattern is changing and being displayed based on the result of the determination that the first winning symbol is a winning symbol). In such a case, since the roulette effect (circle) is already being executed or is about to be executed, the effect control microcomputer 121 does not execute the roulette effect (heat) even if it is determined to execute the roulette effect (heat) in the lottery (Figure 63) at the start of the special pattern change (at the start of the change effect). Note that the configuration may be such that the lottery for executing the roulette effect (heat) is not executed at all.

The first prohibition condition for the roulette effect (circle or cross) is that among the special reserved patterns that have been generated, there is a special reserved pattern (called a specific special reserved pattern) that is scheduled to execute an SP reach (first SP reach, second SP reach, third SP reach). When there is a specific special reserved pattern, it is a situation in which there is a possibility of executing a "roulette effect (heat)" (Figure 64). Therefore, in order not to lose the opportunity to increase interest by executing a "roulette effect (heat)", the effect control microcomputer 121 does not execute a roulette effect (circle or cross) even if the normal pattern change pattern indicated by the received normal pattern change start command is FHP001 or FHP003 (normal pattern change pattern that executes a roulette effect, see Figure 57 (C)).

The second prohibited condition for the roulette presentation (circle or cross) is that an SP reach (first SP reach, second SP reach, or third SP reach) is in progress. In such a case, it is believed that the player is watching the SP reach in hopes of winning a jackpot, so it is undesirable to divert the player's attention, which is focused on the outcome of the SP reach, to another presentation. Therefore, the presentation control microcomputer 121 does not execute the roulette presentation (circle or cross) even if the normal map fluctuation pattern indicated by the received normal map fluctuation start command is FHP001 or FHP003 (normal map fluctuation pattern that performs the roulette presentation, see Figure 57 (C)).

Even if the execution of the roulette effect (◯) is restricted by the above-mentioned first or second prohibition condition, when the electric chute 12D is long-opened, a right-hit image G108 and a text image G92 saying "Aim for the electric chute!" are displayed in the upper right corner of the display unit 50a (Figure 58 (F)). This ensures that the player does not completely lose the opportunity to win on the electric chute 12D.

Next, we will explain examples of the execution of the character gathering performance, character preview performance, third SP reach, second SP reach, and first SP reach.

<Character gathering performance and character preview performance> First, an example of the execution of the character gathering performance (an example of a suggestive performance) will be described. FIG. 66 is a diagram showing a specific example of the character gathering performance. FIG. 66 (A) shows a scene where the variable performance corresponding to the icon TA has ended while the daytime normal background image G102 (daytime background) is displayed on the display unit 50a in a low probability non-time-saving state (a scene where the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed as fixed stops). In this scene, four reserved icons HA related to the special chart 1 are displayed (four special chart 1 reserved icons have been accumulated), and it is determined that the character gathering performance will be executed in the execution lottery (FIG. 61) based on the pre-reading judgment at the time of the occurrence of the fourth special chart 1 reserved icon, and the final number of characters gathered is determined to be "5" in the determination lottery (FIG. 62) for the number of gathered characters. In other words, it is assumed that the fourth special chart 1 reserved icon is the target reserved icon for the character gathering performance. In addition, the fourth special chart 1 reservation can be seen as a special chart reservation that triggers the execution of a character preview performance, or as a special chart reservation that triggers the execution of a character performance (a general term for character gathering performances and character preview performances).

When the next variable display starts from the state shown in FIG. 66(A), as shown in FIG. 66(B), each reserved icon HA related to special chart 1 is shifted to the display area next (next). That is, the first reserved icon HA is displayed as the icon TA, and the second to fourth reserved icons HA are displayed as the first to third reserved icons HA. The performance control microcomputer 121 starts executing the character gathering performance when the reserved icon HA corresponding to the target reservation is shifted for the first time. Specifically, first, a text image MG of "Collect characters!" is displayed in the lower right corner of the display unit 50a (FIG. 66(B)). The text image MG of "Collect characters!" functions as a display suggesting the start of the character gathering performance, and also functions as a display indicating the content (purpose) of the character gathering performance.

The performance control microcomputer 121 displays the text image MG of "Collect characters!" for a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) and then makes it non-displayable. Then, as shown in FIG. 66(C), an image of a character display area capable of displaying up to five characters (character display area image CA) is displayed in the lower right corner of the display unit 50a. At this time, the first character Ka, which is the first character, is displayed so that it moves from the outside into the character display area represented by the character display area image CA.

Next, as shown in FIG. 66(D), when the hold icon HA corresponding to the target hold is displayed as the second hold icon HA (when the target hold is the second special chart 1 hold), the performance control microcomputer 121 displays the second character, the second character Kb, so that it moves from the outside to the inside of the character display area represented by the character display area image CA. This shows the first character Ka and the second character Kb gathered together within the character display area represented by the character display area image CA.

Next, as shown in FIG. 66(E), when the hold icon HA corresponding to the target hold is displayed as the first hold icon HA (when the target hold is the first special chart 1 hold), the performance control microcomputer 121 displays the third character, the third character Kc, so that it moves from the outside to the inside of the character display area represented by the character display area image CA. This shows the first character Ka, second character Kb, and third character Kc gathered together within the character display area represented by the character display area image CA.

Next, as shown in FIG. 66(F), when the variable performance based on the target reservation is started and the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed variably (when the icon TA is a reserved display corresponding to the target reservation), the performance control microcomputer 121 displays the fourth character Kd, which is the fourth character, so as to enter the character display area represented by the character display area image CA from the outside to the inside, and displays the fifth character Ke, which is the fifth character, so as to enter the character display area represented by the character display area image CA from the outside to the inside. This shows the appearance of five characters, the first character Ka, the second character Kb, the third character Kc, the fourth character Kd, and the fifth character Ke, gathering in the character display area represented by the character display area image CA. Each of the first character Ka, the second character Kb, the third character Kc, the fourth character Kd, and the fifth character Ke may be simply referred to as a character K. In this embodiment, each character K is a character with a fruit motif, but the type of character can be changed as appropriate. Each character K is an example of a predetermined character.

In this way, when the performance control microcomputer 121 executes the character gathering performance with the fourth reserved special chart 1 as the target reservation and the final number of characters gathered is determined to be "5", it is possible to gradually gather the characters K over four fluctuation performances (i.e., four special chart fluctuations) from the fluctuation performance when the target reservation becomes the third reserved special chart 1 to the fluctuation performance based on the target reservation. Therefore, the player can watch the performance while looking forward to how many characters K will finally gather in the character gathering performance. Note that in FIG. 66, a pattern is illustrated in which one character K is added with each fluctuation until the fluctuation performance based on the reserved target is started, and two characters K are added in the fluctuation performance based on the reserved target, but the timing and number of characters K to be added in the character gathering performance is determined by lottery from among predetermined variations based on the number of reserved special charts 1 when the target reservation of the character gathering performance occurs and the final number of characters gathered.

As shown in Figure 66 (F), when five characters K gather in a character gathering performance, the variable performance based on the target reservation of that character gathering performance displays the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 in a reach state (for example, "2↓2") (Figure 67 (A)), and develops into an SP reach. Note that the development of the SP reach takes place 13 seconds after the start of the variable performance, and the 13-second period from the start of this variable performance to the start of the SP reach is an example of a "predetermined period." The state in which the SP reach is being executed is referred to as the predetermined state.

In this embodiment, when an SP reach is executed, the introductory part of the SP reach (the introductory effect common to the first SP reach, second SP reach, and third SP reach) is executed first. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 67(B)(C), the effect control microcomputer 121 moves and displays the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 to the upper right corner of the display unit 50a, while displaying an image representing the reach name "Volleyball Reach" in the center of the display unit 50a, and then displays an image of the main character, who appears in the work that is the motif of the pachinko game machine PZ3 of this embodiment, playing volleyball on the display unit 50a.

In conjunction with such an introduction performance of the SP reach, the performance control microcomputer 121 executes a character preview performance using the characters K gathered in the character gathering performance. As already mentioned, as the character preview performance, when three characters K are gathered, a band performance is executed, when four characters K are gathered, a relay is executed, and when five characters K are gathered, a performance of challenging a triathlon is executed (Fig. 62). In this performance example, since five characters K are gathered in the character gathering performance (Fig. 67(A)), the performance control microcomputer 121 executes a character preview performance in which the five characters K challenge a triathlon (Fig. 67(B)). In the character preview performance of the triathlon, from left to right on the display unit 50a, the fifth character Ke is in charge of the first event, swimming, the first character Ka and the second character Kb are in charge of the second event, bicycle road racing, and the third character Kc and the fourth character Kd are in charge of the third event, long distance running, in that order. Finally, the third character Kc attempts to pass the baton to the fourth character Kd (FIG. 67(C)). If the third character Kc is able to pass the baton to the fourth character Kd, the performance is successful (successful triathlon character preview performance) (FIG. 67(D)). If the third character Kc is unable to pass the baton to the fourth character Kd, the performance is unsuccessful (unsuccessful triathlon character preview performance) (FIG. 67(E)). Note that, although explanations of specific examples based on drawings will be omitted for the band performance character preview performance and the relay character preview performance, these performances also ultimately branch into a successful mode (a mode in which the challenge by the gathered characters K is successful) or a failed mode (a mode in which the challenge by the gathered characters K is unsuccessful), just like the triathlon character preview performance.

The character preview performance of the successful mode shown in Fig. 67 (B) (C) (D) is performed when the variable performance being executed is scheduled to perform the third SP reach or the second SP reach (in other words, when the target reservation is a special pattern reservation that is scheduled to perform the third SP reach or the second SP reach) (see Fig. 62). In contrast, the character preview performance of the unsuccessful mode shown in Fig. 67 (B) (C) (E) is performed when the variable performance being executed is scheduled to perform the first SP reach (in other words, when the target reservation is a special pattern reservation that is scheduled to perform the first SP reach) (see Fig. 62). Therefore, the player can recognize that either the second SP reach or the third SP reach, which has a higher expectation of a jackpot than the first SP reach, will be executed by the character preview performance of the successful mode (Fig. 67 (B) (C) (D)). This strengthens the expectation of winning a jackpot. Furthermore, when the failure mode character preview performance (Figure 67 (B) (C) (E)) is performed, the player will know that the first SP reach will be executed, and will pin their hopes on the outcome of the first SP reach.

<3rd SP Reach> If the variation effect being executed is based on the 3rd SP big win variation or the 3rd SP miss variation, the effect control microcomputer 121 executes the ballet dance reach, which is the 3rd SP reach, as shown in FIG. 68(A) following the successful character preview effect (FIG. 67(B)(C)(D)). Specifically, a scene in which many characters (classmate characters of the main character in the work that is the motif of the pachinko game machine PZ3) participate is displayed on the display unit 50a (FIG. 68(A)), and then a scene in which the main character displayed in the introductory effect stops volleyball and does a ballet dance with the characters who have joined is displayed (FIG. 68(B)). Then, the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 displayed in a reduced size in the upper right corner of the display unit 50a are returned to the size that covers the entire display unit 50a, and a win/lose branch is reached. During the execution of the ballet dance reach, the performance control microcomputer 121 displays a text image RM1 of "ballet dance reach," which is the name of the SP reach being executed, in the upper left corner of the display unit 50a. This allows the player to reliably understand that the "ballet dance reach," which has the highest probability of winning among the "ballet reaches," is being executed.

If the currently executing variable performance is based on the third SP big win variation, the performance control microcomputer 121 displays a success scene indicating that the ballet dance went well following the performance shown in FIG. 68(B), and then finally displays the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as a repeated number ("2, 2, 2") in a definite manner as shown in FIG. 68(C). This indicates a big win. On the other hand, if the currently executing variable performance is based on the third SP failure variation, the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are finally displayed as a reach failure number ("2, 1, 2") in a definite manner as shown in FIG. 68(D), after displaying a failure scene indicating that the ballet dance did not go well following the performance shown in FIG. 68(B). This indicates a miss.

<Second SP Reach> If the variation effect being executed is based on the second SP big win variation or the second SP miss variation, the effect control microcomputer 121 executes the cooperation volleyball reach, which is the second SP reach, as shown in FIG. 69(A), following the successful character preview effect (FIG. 67(B)(C)(D)). Specifically, the display unit 50a displays a scene in which two characters (best friend characters who are best friends of the main character in the work that is the motif of the pachinko game machine PZ3) participate (FIG. 69(A)), and then displays a scene in which the main character displayed in the introductory effect plays a volleyball match with the two best friend characters who have joined the team (FIG. 69(B)). Then, the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 displayed in a reduced size in the upper right corner of the display unit 50a are returned to the size that covers the entire display unit 50a, and the winning or losing branch is reached. During the execution of the cooperative volleyball reach, the performance control microcomputer 121 displays a text image RM2 of "Cooperative volleyball reach," which is the name of the SP reach being executed, in the upper left corner of the display unit 50a. This allows the player to reliably understand that a "Cooperative volleyball reach," which is a type of "volleyball reach" with a medium chance of winning, is being executed.

If the currently executing variable presentation is based on the second SP big win variation, the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays a success scene showing a victory in the volleyball match following the presentation shown in FIG. 69(B), and then finally displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as a repeated number ("2, 2, 2") in a definite manner as shown in FIG. 69(C). This indicates a big win. On the other hand, if the currently executing variable presentation is based on the second SP miss variation, the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays a failure scene showing a defeat in the volleyball match following the presentation shown in FIG. 69(B), and then finally displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as a reach miss number ("2, 1, 2") in a definite manner as shown in FIG. 69(D). This indicates a miss.

<First SP Reach> If the currently executing variable performance is based on the first SP big win variation or the first SP miss variation, the performance control microcomputer 121 executes the one-person volleyball reach, which is the first SP reach, as shown in FIG. 70(A), following the character preview performance of the failure mode (FIG. 67(B)(C)(E)). Specifically, the display unit 50a displays a scene in which the main character is practicing volleyball alone (FIG. 70(A)). Then, the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3, which were displayed in a reduced size in the upper right corner of the display unit 50a, are returned to a size that covers the entire area of the display unit 50a, and the winning/losing branch is reached. During the execution of the one-person volleyball reach, the performance control microcomputer 121 displays the text image RM3 of "one-person volleyball reach", which is the name of the currently executing SP reach, in the upper left corner of the display unit 50a. This allows the player to reliably understand that the "one-person volleyball reach", which has the lowest chance of winning among the "volleyball reaches", is being executed.

If the currently executing variable presentation is based on the first SP big win variation, the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays a success scene indicating that the volleyball practice went well following the presentation shown in FIG. 70(A), and then finally displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as a repeat number ("2, 2, 2") in a definite manner as shown in FIG. 70(B). This indicates a big win. On the other hand, if the currently executing variable presentation is based on the first SP miss variation, the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays a failure scene indicating that the volleyball practice did not go well following the presentation shown in FIG. 70(A), and then finally displays the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as a reach miss number ("2, 1, 2") in a definite manner as shown in FIG. 70(C). This indicates a miss.

In addition, when the effects are executed in the flow shown in FIG. 66, FIG. 67 (A)-(D), and FIG. 68, or when the effects are executed in the flow shown in FIG. 66, FIG. 67 (A)-(D), and FIG. 69, when the variable effect based on the target reservation of the character gathering effect is started, the roulette effect (heat) shown in FIG. 64 (B)-(D) may be performed under the effect situation shown in FIG. 66 (F). In this way, the interest of the pachinko game machine PZ3 of this form is improved by the fact that the character effect (character gathering effect, character advance notice effect) and the roulette effect (heat) can be performed in combination. In addition, under the effect situation shown in FIG. 66 (F), the roulette effect (x) shown in FIG. 58 (B)-(D) or the roulette effect (o) shown in FIG. 58 (B), (C), and (E) may be performed (see FIG. 65). Therefore, even if it is under the effect situation shown in FIG. 66 (F), it is not certain that the pattern finally stopped and displayed in the roulette effect is "heat". Therefore, the expectation of the "Heat" symbol being displayed stationary can be maintained until the roulette effect ends, and interest in the roulette effect can be maintained. Also, even in the effect situation shown in FIG. 66(F), there is room for the roulette effect (circle) to be performed, so it is possible to make it difficult to miss the opportunity for a winning occurrence in the electric chute 12D.

9-2. Effect of the Third Embodiment As described above in detail, according to the pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment, each character K (first character Ka to fifth character Ke) that can be displayed in the character gathering performance based on the result of the pre-reading judgment is displayed in various display forms such as playing in a band, doing a relay, or doing a triathlon as a character advance notice performance during the performance (introduction performance) of the introductory part of the SP reach in the variation performance accompanying the special chart variation (see Fig. 61, Fig. 62, Fig. 66, Fig. 67). Then, depending on which display form the character K takes, after the performance (introduction performance) of the introductory part of the SP reach, whether the first SP reach (normal development performance) is performed, or the second SP reach or the third SP reach (special development performance) with a higher winning expectation is performed (see Fig. 62). Therefore, while there is a correlation between the display of character K in the character gathering performance based on the results of the look-ahead judgment and the display of character K in the character preview performance during the variable performance based on the target reservation (Figures 66 and 67), the display mode of character K can be used to predict the performance that will follow the introductory performance, and the connection between such a series of performances can increase interest in the game.

In addition, according to the third embodiment of the pachinko game machine PZ3, when a normal map change start command is received that includes information on the normal map change pattern FHP001 (see FIG. 57(C)) related to the long opening of the electric chute 12D in the low probability non-time shortening state, the microcomputer 121 for controlling the performance generally executes the "roulette performance (◯)" (FIG. 58(B)(C)(E)). However, if a special map reservation (SP reservation) that is scheduled to perform an SP reach (first SP reach, second SP reach, third SP reach) has occurred or an SP reach is being performed, the roulette performance (◯) is not executed even if the normal map change start command is received (FIG. 65). This prevents the performance from becoming complicated, and it is possible to suppress a decrease in interest in the game due to the performance being executed in a complicated manner. In addition, the execution of the "roulette performance (×)" (FIG. 58(B)(C)(D)) is also restricted by the same conditions, which also prevents the performance from becoming complicated.

9-3. Modifications of the Third Embodiment Below, modifications of the pachinko game machine PZ3 of the third embodiment will be described. Of course, the configurations of the modifications may be appropriately combined. The technical features of the above embodiment and the following modifications can be appropriately combined with the configuration of the pachinko game machine PZ1 of the first embodiment and its modifications as long as they do not interfere with the game, and can also be appropriately combined with the configuration of the pachinko game machine PZ2 of the second embodiment and its modifications as long as they do not interfere with the game. Note that the technical features of the above embodiment and the following modifications can be appropriately deleted unless they are described as essential in this specification.

In the third embodiment described above, the second SP reach (cooperative ballet reach, FIG. 69) and the third SP reach (ballet dance reach, FIG. 68) are configured to be executable as effects with a higher chance of winning a jackpot than the first SP reach (solo ballet reach, FIG. 70), but it is also possible to configure the system so that only one of the second SP reach and the third SP reach is executable. In addition, it is also possible to configure the system so that three or more types of SP reaches are executable as effects with a higher chance of winning a jackpot than the first SP reach.

In the third embodiment, the content of the character preview performance connected to the character gathering performance is determined to be one of three types (band performance, relay, triathlon) depending on the final number of characters gathered in the character gathering performance, but the content of the character preview performance may be two types (for example, only band performance and triathlon) or four or more types. However, no matter how many types of content the character preview performance is, it is preferable that the configuration be such that a larger number of characters finally gathered in the character gathering performance makes it easier to execute a second SP reach or a third SP reach (SP reach with a relatively high chance of winning) than a smaller number of characters finally gathered.

In the third embodiment, the content of the character preview performance (band performance, relay, triathlon) that follows from the character gathering performance changes depending on the final number of characters gathered in the character gathering performance, but the content of the subsequent character preview performance may remain the same regardless of the final number of characters gathered in the character gathering performance (for example, a character preview performance in which the character challenges a triathlon). However, even in such a configuration, it is desirable that the number of characters used in the character preview performance and the success probability of the character preview performance change depending on the final number of characters gathered in the character gathering performance. In this case, for example, a character preview performance in which three characters gathered in a character gathering performance challenge a predetermined challenge (triathlon) is an example of a "first performance in which characters are displayed in a first display mode", and a character preview performance in which five characters gathered in a character gathering performance challenge a predetermined challenge (triathlon) is an example of a "second performance in which characters are displayed in a second display mode".

In the third embodiment, whether the character preview performance is a band performance, a relay, or a triathlon, if it fails, the first SP reach is performed afterwards, and if it succeeds, either the second SP reach or the third SP reach is performed afterwards (Figure 62). In contrast, if the character preview performance fails, the first SP reach is performed with a first probability, and either the second SP reach or the third SP reach is performed with a second probability lower than the first probability, while if the character preview performance is successful, either the second SP reach or the third SP reach is performed with a third probability, and the first SP reach is performed with a fourth probability lower than the third probability. Note that the fourth probability is lower than the first probability, and the second probability is lower than the third probability.

In the third embodiment, the roulette effect (◯) or roulette effect (X) is not executed even during the execution of the first SP reach (normal development effect), the second SP reach (special development effect), or the third SP reach (special development effect) (see FIG. 65). In other words, in the SP fluctuation in which the SP reach is executed, the roulette effect (◯) or roulette effect (X) is not executed unless before the execution of the SP reach. In contrast, the roulette effect (◯) or roulette effect (X) can be executed even when the first SP reach is executed, but the roulette effect (◯) or roulette effect (X) may not be executed if the second SP reach or the third SP reach (SP reach with a higher expectation than the first SP reach) is executed. With this configuration, during an SP reach with a relatively high expectation, the player can focus on that SP reach, while during an SP reach with a relatively low expectation, the execution of a roulette effect (◯) or roulette effect (X) is guaranteed, making the player aware of another chance, that of winning on the electric chute 12D, and is expected to increase interest in the game.

In the third embodiment, two prohibition conditions are set for the roulette effect (x) as well as for the roulette effect (o) (FIG. 65), but the prohibition conditions may not be set for the roulette effect (x). In the third embodiment, two prohibition conditions are set for the roulette effect (heat) and two prohibition conditions are set for the roulette effect (o/x), but the prohibition conditions may be set only for the roulette effect (heat) or only for the roulette effect (o/x). If it is not necessary to prevent a decrease in interest due to the complicated presentation, the prohibition conditions may not be set for either the roulette effect (heat) or the roulette effect (o/x). The prohibition conditions for the roulette effect (heat) may be any one of the first and second prohibition conditions. The prohibition conditions for the roulette effect (o/x) may be any one of the first and second prohibition conditions. In addition, the execution of the roulette effect (O/X) may be prohibited during an SP reach based on a jackpot win, but allowed during an SP reach based on a miss, or the execution of the roulette effect (O/X) may be permitted during an SP reach based on a jackpot win, but prohibited during an SP reach based on a miss.

10. Examples of modifications common to each embodiment In the above embodiments (first, second, and third embodiments), the content of each effect and the lottery probability can be modified as appropriate without impairing the function of the effect. In addition, the type of special symbol (jackpot symbol, losing symbol, etc.) that is stopped and displayed as a result of the special symbol lottery, its privilege, and lottery probability can be modified as appropriate without impeding the game.

In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to a pachinko game machine, but it can also be applied to other pinball game machines such as an arrange ball machine and a mahjong ball game machine. When the present invention is applied to a pachinko game machine, the game characteristics of the game machine can be changed as appropriate within the scope of not interfering with the game. In other words, the present invention can be appropriately adopted in so-called pattern probability change machines (game machines in which a transition to a high probability state is determined based on the type of winning pattern), so-called V-certain machines (game machines that control a high probability state based on the passage of a specific area (V area) in the large prize winning hole), so-called probability change loop type game machines (game machines that, once controlled to a high probability state, continue to be controlled to a high probability state until the start of the next big win game), so-called ST machines (game machines with a limited number of probability changes), so-called one-type two-type mixed machines and swing-type game machines, etc., as long as it does not interfere with the game. The present invention may also be applied to gaming machines that do not have a bottom tray 35 or other structure and in which balls enclosed within the gaming machine are circulated (so-called enclosed gaming machines, circulating gaming machines, managed gaming machines, and smart pachinko machines).

In the above embodiment, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are displayed in a variable manner in approximately synchronization with the variable display of the special symbol, but instead of being composed of three symbols like the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3, they may be composed of two symbols other than three. For example, two symbols may be provided, one for special symbol 1 and one for special symbol 2. Also, one symbol common to special symbol 1 and special symbol 2 may be provided. In these cases, the display may be displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50, and the sub-control board 120 may control it. Also, an LED device that displays the symbols may be provided in an area other than the play area 6 of the game board 1. In this case, the LED device may be controlled by the main control board 100 or the sub-control board 120.

In the above embodiment, the main control board 100 performs basic control over the progress of the game, and the sub-control board 120 performs basic control over the progress of the presentation according to the progress of the game (game control), so that game control and presentation control are performed on different boards, but they may also be configured to be performed on a single board. In this case, the image control board 140 may be included in that single board, or may be provided separately from that single board.

When referring to a "state advantageous to the player (advantageous game state, advantageous state, or special game state)," not all jackpot game states may be configured to correspond to this. For example, a jackpot game state that is scheduled to be controlled to a high probability state afterwards may be configured to correspond to a "state advantageous to the player," or a jackpot game state in which a relatively large number of prize balls can be obtained, such as substantially 10R, may be configured to correspond to a "state advantageous to the player." In addition, the "state advantageous to the player" may not refer to a jackpot game state, but may refer to a small jackpot game state (a state in which a small jackpot game is being executed), or may refer to a high probability state or a high base state (a time-saving state). In a gaming machine equipped with a two-type jackpot, a series of game states including a small jackpot game state and a jackpot game state based on the passage of a game ball into a specific area 16 in the small jackpot game state may be configured to be advantageous to the player. Furthermore, if the "state advantageous to the player" refers to a high probability state or a high base state (time-saving state), the various effects that create anticipation of entering a "state advantageous to the player" are not limited to effects during the variable display of special symbols, but may also be effects that are performed at other times, such as during a jackpot game.

11. Inventions shown in each embodiment and its modified examples Each of the above-mentioned embodiments and its modified examples shows the inventions of the following means. In the explanation of the means described below, corresponding component names and expressions in the above-mentioned embodiments, etc., and symbols used in the drawings are added in parentheses for reference. However, the components of each invention are not limited to these additions. Note that means A is a general term for the following means A1 to A3. Means B is a general term for the following means B1 to B3. Means C is a general term for the following means C1 to C3.

Means A1:
After a first performance (performance up to the formation of a reach in the variable performance) in which decorative symbols (performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, EZ3) are displayed in a predetermined mode (reach) is performed, a specific performance (variable performance that develops into a battle reach) is performed to perform a second performance (performance after the establishment of a reach in the variable performance) that can lead to a specific result (winning a special jackpot) or a non-specific result (winning a regular jackpot),
There are a plurality of types of the decorative symbols, including a specific decorative symbol (a strong enemy symbol including a base part DGK on which a strong enemy character is drawn) that indicates that the non-specific result (normal jackpot) is likely to be derived (see FIG. 32 ).
The decorative pattern can be set to a specific presentation mode (first probability variation presentation mode, see FIG. 33) in which the decorative pattern includes a predetermined number (one) of the specific decorative pattern, and a non-specific presentation mode (second probability variation presentation mode, see FIG. 34) in which the decorative pattern includes a number (three) of the specific decorative pattern that is greater than the predetermined number,
A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine PZ1 according to the first embodiment) characterized in that the specific effect is sometimes executed in the specific effect mode and sometimes executed in the non-specific effect mode.

According to a gaming machine of this configuration, the types of decorative symbols include specific decorative symbols that are likely to lead to a non-specific result, and when the non-specific presentation mode is set, the number of specific decorative symbols included in the decorative symbols is greater than when the specific presentation mode is set. Therefore, when the non-specific presentation mode is set, the player can have the feeling that a non-specific result is more likely to be derived as a result of the specific presentation than a specific result, stimulating the player's psychology and making it possible to increase interest in the game.

Means A2:
A gaming machine according to the means A1,
When the specific performance ends, the game is controlled to a favorable state (jackpot game state) that is favorable to the player, and when a predetermined condition (winning a guaranteed jackpot) is met, the game is controlled to a special state (high probability state) after the favorable state.
The gaming machine is characterized in that, as the specific presentation, there is a case where a high success presentation (for example, a variable presentation in which a normal enemy symbol is a reach symbol) is executed in which the specified condition is met with a high probability when controlled to the advantageous state, and a case where a low success presentation (a variable presentation in which a strong enemy symbol is a reach symbol) is executed in which the specified condition is met with a low probability when controlled to the advantageous state.

With a gaming machine of this configuration, when a predetermined condition is met, the game is controlled to a special state after an advantageous state, and as a special effect, there are cases where a high success effect, which has a high probability of meeting the predetermined condition, is executed, and cases where a low success effect, which has a low probability of meeting the predetermined condition, is executed. This heightens interest in whether a high success effect or a low success effect will be executed, and can increase interest in the game.

Means A3:
A gaming machine according to means A2,
Prior to the judgment as to whether or not to control the game to the advantageous state, a look-ahead judgment is made as to whether or not the advantageous state will be achieved and whether or not the predetermined condition is met (see FIG. 36), and based on the result of the look-ahead judgment, a predetermined look-ahead effect (chance zone effect, see FIG. 37) that creates an expectation that the advantageous state will be achieved is executed.
When the pre-reading judgment indicates that the advantageous state will be achieved and the low success performance (a variable performance in which a strong enemy symbol is a reach symbol) is executed as the specific performance corresponding to the pre-reading judgment, the execution of the specified pre-reading performance based on the pre-reading judgment is restricted (a chance zone performance is not executed).

With this gaming machine, when a low success rate performance in which a specific condition is met and the probability of being controlled to a special state is relatively low is executed as a specific performance, the execution of a look-ahead performance based on the results of a look-ahead judgment corresponding to this low success rate performance is restricted. This makes it possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which a low success rate performance is executed despite the player having been given high hopes by the look-ahead performance, disappointing the player.

Incidentally, as described in Patent No. 7054189, a pachinko gaming machine, which is an example of a gaming machine, is known in which the left, center, and right performance symbols (decorative symbols) are displayed in a variable manner to indicate the result of a judgment of whether or not there is a jackpot, and then the center performance symbol is temporarily stopped with a special performance symbol that suggests the subsequent performance development (for example, the type of enemy character in a battle reach that is the development destination). However, the performance technique of suggesting the subsequent performance development by stopping a special performance symbol as described in Patent No. 7054189 is now commonly seen, and there is still room for improvement in order to provide players with an interesting performance using the performance symbols.

The above-mentioned means A differs from the gaming machine described in Patent No. 7054189 in that "there are multiple types of decorative symbols, including specific decorative symbols that suggest that a non-specific result is likely to be derived, and the decorative symbols can be set to a specific presentation mode in which the decorative symbols include a predetermined number of specific decorative symbols, and a non-specific presentation mode in which the decorative symbols include a number of specific decorative symbols greater than the predetermined number, and there are times when the specific presentation is executed in the specific presentation mode and times when the specific presentation is executed in the non-specific presentation mode." Due to this difference, the invention of means A can solve the problem of "improving the interest of the game through presentation" (achieve the effect of doing so).

Means B1:
The game machine includes an operation unit (normal button 40) that can be operated by a player,
Executing a notification effect (variable effect) to notify the player of the result of the determination as to whether or not to put the player into an advantageous state (jackpot game state);
In the notification performance, a reach performance (the establishment of the reach shown in FIG. 50 (A)) in which the performance symbols (the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, EZ3) are in a reach state is executed;
In the notification performance, it is possible to execute a change performance (a button vibration performance that vibrates the normal button 40) that changes the state of the operation unit in response to the operation of the operation unit before or after executing the reach performance,
A gaming machine characterized in that the rate at which the change performance is executed in response to operation of the operation unit before the execution of the reach performance is different from the rate at which the change performance is executed in response to operation of the operation unit after the execution of the reach performance (see Figure 48).

In a gaming machine with this configuration, the rate at which the state of the operating part changes in response to the operation of the operating part differs before and after the performance symbol reaches a reach state, which creates a difference in the enjoyment of operating the operating part before and after the performance symbol reaches a reach state, which is expected to increase interest.

Means B2:
A gaming machine according to the means B1,
It is possible to execute in the notification performance (variable performance) a specific performance (battle performance) selected from a plurality of performances including one or more first specific performances (a battle performance of a transformation battle with enemy character X (see FIG. 54), a battle performance of a transformation battle with enemy character Y (see FIG. 55)), and one or more second specific performances (a battle performance of a non-transformation battle with enemy character A (see FIG. 52), a battle performance of a non-transformation battle with enemy character B (see FIG. 53)) having a lower expectation of being controlled to the advantageous state than the first specific performance,
It is possible to execute an opportunity presentation (a reach-establishment challenge presentation) including the change presentation (a button vibration presentation) which gives the expectation that the advantageous state will be controlled (see FIG. 48 to FIG. 50 );
A gaming machine characterized in that, when the specific effect and the opportunity effect are executed in the notification effect, the specific effect is selected from the second specific effect.

In a gaming machine with this configuration, the change effect that changes the state of the operating unit in response to the operation of the operating unit is included in the opportunity effect that creates the expectation of control into an advantageous state, and when this opportunity effect is executed, a second specific effect that has a lower expectation of control into an advantageous state than the first specific effect is executed instead of the first specific effect. Therefore, even when the second specific effect that has a lower expectation of control into an advantageous state than the first specific effect is executed instead of the first specific effect, the degree of disappointment is mitigated by the execution of the opportunity effect, and a decrease in interest can be prevented.

Means B3:
A gaming machine according to means B2,
A gaming machine characterized in that when the notification effect includes the opportunity effect and the second specific effect, there is a higher expectation of being controlled into the advantageous state than when the notification effect does not include the opportunity effect but does include the second specific effect (see Figure 48).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, when an opportunity presentation and a second specific presentation are performed, the expectation of control into an advantageous state is higher than when an opportunity presentation is not performed and the second specific presentation is performed. Therefore, even when the second specific presentation, which has a lower expectation of control into an advantageous state among the specific presentations, is performed, the opportunity presentation makes it possible to fully expect that control into an advantageous state will be performed, which is expected to increase interest.

Incidentally, conventionally, as an example of a gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine is known that can execute an effect of vibrating an operated operating means or an operating means other than the operated operating means in response to the operation of the operating means, as described in JP2020-099773A. However, the effect of changing the state of the operating means to a vibrating state in response to the operation of the operating means, as described in JP2020-099773A, is now commonly seen, and there is still room for improvement in order to provide players with an interest through an effect using the operating means (operating unit).

The above-mentioned means B differs from the gaming machine described in JP 2020-099773 A in that "in the notification effect that notifies the player of the result of the determination as to whether to create an advantageous state favorable to the player, it is possible to execute a change effect that changes the state of the operation unit in response to the operation of the operation unit before or after the execution of a reach effect in which the effect symbol takes the reach state, and the rate at which the change effect is executed in response to the operation of the operation unit before the execution of the reach effect differs from the rate at which the change effect is executed in response to the operation of the operation unit after the execution of the reach effect." Due to this difference, the invention of means B can solve the problem of "improving the interest in the game through the effect" (achieve the effect of doing so).

Means C1:
A game control means (game control microcomputer 101) for controlling the progress of a game;
A performance control means (performance control microcomputer 121) capable of executing a performance based on a command from the game control means,
The game control means is capable of performing a pattern change (special pattern change) in which a predetermined pattern (special pattern) is displayed in a variable manner based on the result of the winning/losing judgment, and then the pattern change (special pattern change) is displayed in a stopped manner in a manner indicating the result of the winning/losing judgment,
The performance control means includes:
Based on the result of the look-ahead judgment made before the hit/miss judgment, a suggestion effect (character gathering effect, see FIG. 66) is performed to display a predetermined character (character K);
In association with the pattern change, a predetermined introductory performance (the introductory part of the SP reach, see Figs. 67(B) to (E)) is performed, and then a normal development performance (the first SP reach shown in Fig. 70) or a special development performance (the third SP reach shown in Fig. 68, the second SP reach shown in Fig. 69) with a higher probability of winning than the normal development performance is performed.
In the introductory performance, it is possible to perform a first performance (e.g., a band performance character preview performance) in which the character displayed in the suggestive performance is displayed in a first display mode (a band performance mode), or a second performance (a triathlon character preview performance, see Figures 67(B) to (E)) in which the character displayed in the suggestive performance is displayed in a second display mode (e.g., a triathlon character preview performance, see Figures 67(B) to (E)) (see Figure 62),
A gaming machine (a pachinko gaming machine PZ3 of a third embodiment) characterized in that the special development effect is more likely to be executed after the introduction effect is executed when the second effect is executed than when the first effect is executed.

In a gaming machine with this configuration, a predetermined character displayed in a suggestive performance based on the results of a look-ahead determination is displayed in a first display mode or a second display mode in an introduction performance accompanying a pattern change, and depending on the display mode, whether a normal development performance is performed after the introduction performance or a special development performance with a higher probability of winning is performed. Therefore, while there is a correlation between the display of the character based on the results of a look-ahead determination and the display of the character during the introduction performance accompanying the pattern change, it is possible to predict the performance following the introduction performance from the display mode of the character, and this connection between a series of performances can increase interest in the game.

Means C2:
A gaming machine according to means C1,
The performance control means includes:
A specific command (a normal map fluctuation start command including information on the normal map fluctuation pattern FHP001, see FIG. 57(C)) indicating that the variable ball entry device (electric chute 12D) is to be controlled to a state (open state) in which it is easy to enter the ball can be received, and based on this, a predetermined effect ("roulette effect (circle)", see FIG. 58(B)(C)(E)) can be executed.
A gaming machine characterized in that, when a pattern change that triggers control to a specified state (a state in which an SP reach is being executed) is on hold (when a special pattern that is scheduled to execute an SP reach is on hold) and when a specified period of time has passed since the pattern change began (when an SP reach is being executed), the specified presentation is not executed even when the specific command is received (see Figure 65).

With this gaming machine, if the pattern change that triggers control to a specified state is on hold or if a specified period of time has passed since the start of the pattern change, the specified presentation is not executed even if the presentation control means receives a specific command indicating that the variable ball entry device is to be controlled to a state that makes it easier for the ball to enter. This prevents the presentation from becoming complicated and reduces the decline in interest in the game due to complicated presentation.

Means C3:
A gaming machine according to the means C2,
The gaming machine is characterized in that the presentation control means is capable of not executing the specified presentation ("roulette presentation (◯)") even if it receives the specific command when the normal development presentation (first SP reach) or the special development presentation (third SP reach, second SP reach) is being executed (see Figure 65).

With this gaming machine, when a normal or special development performance is being performed after the introduction performance accompanying the pattern change, the performance control means does not execute the specified performance even if it receives a specific command indicating that the variable ball entry device is being controlled to a state where it is easier for the ball to enter. This allows the player's attention to be directed to the normal or special development performance, prevents the performance from becoming complicated, and suppresses a decrease in interest in the game due to the performance being executed in a complicated manner.

As an example of a gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine has been known in the past, as described in JP 2020-014923 A, in which a preview performance in which one of a plurality of characters speaks a line is performed in one variable performance, followed by a character reach performance in which one of a plurality of characters appears. However, in the gaming machine described in JP 2020-014923 A, one of a plurality of characters merely speaks a line as a preview performance, and then one of a plurality of characters appears as a character reach, and there is no sense of a relationship between the performances. Therefore, there is still room for improvement in order to increase the interest of the performances.

The above-mentioned means C differs from the gaming machine described in JP2020-014923A in that "it is possible to perform a suggestive effect in which a predetermined character is displayed based on the result of a look-ahead determination made before the win/loss determination, to perform a normal development effect or a special development effect with a higher probability of winning than the normal development effect after a predetermined introduction effect is performed in association with a pattern change based on the result of the win/loss determination, and to perform a first effect in which the character displayed in the suggestive effect is displayed in a first display mode or a second effect in which the character displayed in the suggestive effect is displayed in a second display mode in the introduction effect, and the special development effect is more likely to be executed after the introduction effect is executed when the second effect is executed than when the first effect is executed." Due to this difference, the invention of means C can solve the problem of "improving the interest of the game through the effects" (achieve the effect of doing so).

PZ1... Pachinko machine PZ2... Pachinko machine PZ3... Pachinko machine 12D... Electric chute (variable ball entry device)
40...Normal button (operation part)
50...Image display device 50a...Display unit 101...Game control microcomputer 121...Performance control microcomputer EZ1...Left performance pattern EZ2...Middle performance pattern EZ3...Right performance pattern SG...Number section DG...Base section K...Character Ka...First character Kb...Second character Kc...Third character Kd...Fourth character Ke...Fifth character G91...Roulette image

Claims (1)

A game control means for controlling the progress of a game;
A performance control means capable of executing a performance based on a command from the game control means,
The game control means is capable of performing a pattern change that displays a predetermined pattern in a variable manner based on the result of the winning/losing determination, and then stops and displays the pattern in a manner that indicates the result of the winning/losing determination,
The performance control means includes:
A suggestion effect is performed in which a predetermined character is displayed based on a result of a pre-reading determination performed before the hit/miss determination.
After performing a predetermined introduction performance in accordance with the pattern variation, a normal development performance or a special development performance having a higher winning expectation rate than the normal development performance is performed.
In the introduction performance, it is possible to perform a first performance in which the character displayed in the suggestion performance is displayed in a first display mode, or a second performance in which the character displayed in the suggestion performance is displayed in a second display mode;
A gaming machine in which the special development performance is more likely to be executed after the introduction performance is executed when the second performance is executed than when the first performance is executed,
The performance control means includes:
Based on receiving a specific command indicating that the variable ball entry device is to be controlled to a state where it is easy to score a ball, a predetermined effect can be executed to suggest that the variable ball entry device is to be in a state where it is easy to score a ball by displaying an image different from the hold icon ,
This gaming machine is characterized in that when a pattern change that triggers control to a state in which the unfolding performance is being executed is on hold and when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the pattern change began, the specified performance is not executed even if the specific command is received.

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