JP7568286B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

In a conventional pachinko game machine, which is an example of an amusement machine, when a variable game is put on hold due to a winning entry into the starting slot, a specific image is displayed on the liquid crystal screen to notify the player of the put on hold variable game. As an example, the specific image is an icon resembling a weapon, tool, or character, or Arabic numerals. The pachinko game machine is configured to suggest or notify the player of the probability of winning the variable game shown in the specific image by changing the display mode of the specific image (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2018-130148 A

However, in conventional gaming machines, it is expected that players' interest will be increased by implementing further ingenuity in changing the display mode of specific images.

The gaming machine that solves the above problem includes a hold means for holding a variable game in response to the establishment of a hold condition, an execution means for executing a variable game in response to the establishment of a start condition, an image display means including one or more display units capable of displaying various images, and a display control means for controlling the image display means, wherein the image display means displays a specific image in response to the holding of a variable game, and the display mode of the specific image can be changed via a change performance, the change performance is performed by displaying a special image, and the change performance is configured to include a first performance and a second performance that can be started after the start of the first performance, and the first performance is a performance that suggests or notifies the content of the second performance, and is a performance that suggests or notifies the expectation of a win of the variable game that is being executed when the first performance is executed, and The gist of the invention is that the expected probability of winning differs depending on the type of special image, the first presentation has a first situation and a second situation in which at least a part of the special image that can be displayed differs from that in the first situation, the content of the variable game can develop at a predetermined timing, the first presentation and the second presentation can be started before the predetermined timing, the special image includes a character as an element, and when the specific image changes via the change presentation, it changes to a display mode that includes as an element the same character as the special image that constitutes the change presentation, and the characters that can be displayed as elements of the special image include characters that can be displayed in both the first situation and the second situation, and characters that are not displayed in the first situation but can be displayed in the second situation .

The gaming machine that solves the above problem comprises a hold means for holding a variable game in response to the establishment of a hold condition, an execution means for executing a variable game in response to the establishment of a start condition, an image display means comprising one or more display units capable of displaying various images, and a display control means for controlling the image display means, wherein the image display means displays a specific image in response to the variable game being held on hold, and the display mode of the specific image can be changed via a change performance, the change performance comprising a first performance and a second performance that is started after the start of the first performance, the first performance is a performance that suggests or notifies the content of the second performance, and is a performance that suggests or notifies the expected probability of a win of the variable game that is being executed when the first performance is executed, the content of the variable game can develop at a predetermined timing, the first performance and the second performance can be started before the predetermined timing, and the display mode of the specific image, when changing via the change performance, moves to a display position different from a predetermined display position and then changes.

The gaming machine that solves the above problem includes a hold means for holding a variable game in response to the establishment of a hold condition, an execution means for executing a variable game in response to the establishment of a start condition, an image display means including one or more display units capable of displaying various images, and a display control means for controlling the image display means, wherein the image display means displays a specific image in response to the holding of the variable game, and the display mode of the specific image can be changed via a change performance, the change performance including a first performance and a second performance that starts after the start of the first performance, and the first performance is a display mode of the second performance. The gist of the present invention is that the presentation suggests or notifies the user of the content of the presentation, and also suggests or notifies the user of the expected probability of winning a variable game that is being executed when the first presentation is executed, the content of the variable game can develop at a predetermined timing, the first presentation and the second presentation can be started before the predetermined timing, the display mode of at least one of the specific images that indicates a variable game that is on hold can be changed via the changing presentation, and the first presentation that constitutes the changing presentation suggests or notifies the user of the expected probability of winning a variable game that is being executed at that time.

The present invention can increase the interest of players.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of a pachinko gaming machine. This is a diagram of the game board as seen from the front. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko game machine. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a fluctuation pattern. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a step-up effect pattern. 13A to 13F are diagrams showing an example of the flow of a first change presentation via a step-up presentation. 13A to 13F are diagrams showing an example of the flow of a first change presentation via a step-up presentation. 13A to 13F are diagrams showing an example of the flow of a second change effect via a chance-up effect. 13A to 13F are diagrams showing an example of the flow of a second change effect via a chance-up effect.

An embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below.
In this specification, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (back) indicate the respective directions as seen by the player.

The pachinko gaming machine 10, which is an example of a gaming machine, is configured as a circulating pachinko gaming machine that circulates gaming balls inside the machine. Without being limited to this, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be configured as a non-circulating pachinko gaming machine that pays out prize balls and receives a supply of gaming balls from an island facility or the like. The gaming balls may be magnetic or non-magnetic. The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to operate independently, or may be configured to operate in cooperation with a management unit or management server external to the machine.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 10 has a frame 11. The frame 11 has an outer frame 11a for fixing the machine to an island facility, and a mounting frame 11b for mounting various gaming parts. The gaming board YB, which will be described later, is attached to the mounting frame 11b. The mounting frame 11b may include a protective frame that protects the gaming board YB.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a speaker SP. The speaker SP can execute effects that output a specific sound (hereinafter referred to as sound effects). For example, the specific sound is music, a human voice, sound effects, etc. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a decorative lamp LA. The decorative lamp LA can execute effects (hereinafter referred to as light emission effects) by turning on, blinking, and extinguishing a built-in light-emitting element (not shown).

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a launch handle HD that is operated when launching a gaming ball. The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be equipped with a performance button BT and a performance lever LV as examples of operation means that can be operated by a player. Without being limited to this, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may not be equipped with one or both of the performance button BT and the performance lever LV, and may be equipped with operation means different from these.

As shown in FIG. 2, a game area YBa that is approximately circular when viewed from the front is formed on the front of the game board YB. A display window YBb is formed in approximately the center of the game area YBa. A launch passage YBc is formed to the left of the game area YBa, which guides the game ball launched by operating the launch handle HD to the game area YBa.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a first special symbol display device 19a, a second special symbol display device 19b, a first reserved symbol display device 19c, a second reserved symbol display device 19d, and a normal symbol display device 19e. As an example, each of the display devices 19a to 19e is provided at a position on the game board YB that is visible to the player.

The first special symbol display device 19a is capable of executing a first special symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as the first special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and finally a first special symbol is displayed in a static manner. The second special symbol display device 19b is capable of executing a second special symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as the second special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and finally a second special symbol is displayed in a static manner. Each special symbol is a symbol for announcing the result of an internal lottery (a lottery for a special symbol to win). Hereinafter, the first special game and the second special game are collectively referred to as the "special game". There are two types of special symbols: a jackpot symbol as a jackpot display result, and a miss symbol as a miss display result. If a jackpot is won in the lottery for a special symbol to win, the jackpot symbol is displayed in a static manner in the special game, and a jackpot game is awarded after the special game ends.

The first pending display device 19c displays information that can identify the number of first special games whose execution is on hold because the pending conditions have been met but the start conditions have not yet been met (hereafter referred to as the first pending number). The second pending display device 19d displays information that can identify the number of second special games whose execution is on hold because the pending conditions have been met but the start conditions have not yet been met (hereafter referred to as the second pending number). As an example, the upper limit for each pending number is 4. Without being limited to this, the upper limit for each pending number may be 1 to 3, or 5 or more. Furthermore, the upper limit for the first pending number may be different from the upper limit for the second pending number.

The normal symbol display device 19e is capable of executing a normal game in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and finally a normal symbol is displayed stationarily. The normal symbol is a symbol for announcing the result of an internal lottery (a lottery for a winning normal symbol). There are at least a normal winning symbol and a normal losing symbol among the normal symbols. If the lottery for a winning normal symbol is won, the normal winning symbol is displayed stationarily in the normal game, and a normal winning play is awarded after the end of the normal game.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be equipped with a normal hold display device, a right-hit display device, and a round display device. The normal hold display device displays information that can identify the number of normal games whose execution is on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the start conditions have not yet been met. The right-hit display device displays information instructing a right hit. A right hit is to fire a game ball with a stronger firing intensity set so that the game ball flows down the area of the game area YBa to the right of the display window YBb. The round display device notifies the player of the upper limit of the number of rounds of play, which will be described later.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an effect display device EH. The effect display device EH has a display area R capable of displaying an image. The effect display device EH is an example of an image display means for displaying an image. The effect display device EH is attached to the game board YB so that the display area R can be seen through the display window YBb. As an example, the effect display device EH is a liquid crystal device. The effect display device EH can execute an effect (hereinafter referred to as a display effect) in which a specific object is displayed as an image. For example, the specific object is an effect pattern (decorative pattern), a character, a landscape, a letter, a number, a symbol, etc. Hereinafter, when these characters, etc. are simply referred to as "displaying", it means that these objects such as characters are displayed as images. The effect display device EH, the speaker SP, and the decorative lamp LA are each an effect device capable of executing an effect, and form a effect device group ES consisting of a plurality of effect devices.

As an example, the display effects on the effect display device EH include an effect pattern change game (hereinafter referred to as the effect game) that uses multiple rows of effect patterns. In the effect game, multiple rows of effect patterns are displayed in a changing manner, and ultimately a combination of effect patterns (hereinafter referred to as the pattern combination) is displayed stationary. The effect patterns are patterns decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are used to diversify the display effects. As an example, the effect game is played by displaying the effect patterns of the left pattern row, middle pattern row, and right pattern row in a changing manner in a predetermined direction.

The presentation game is started together with the special game. The presentation game is ended together with the special game. In the presentation game, a symbol combination corresponding to the special symbol displayed in the special game is displayed. When a big win symbol is displayed in the special game, the big win symbol combination is displayed in the presentation game. When a losing symbol is displayed in the special game, the losing symbol combination is displayed in the presentation game. Hereinafter, the first special game and the presentation game executed corresponding to it are collectively referred to as the "first variable game". The second special game and the presentation game executed corresponding to it are collectively referred to as the "second variable game". The first variable game and the second variable game are collectively referred to as the "variable game".

The performance game may include a reach performance. A reach performance is a performance that forms a reach and ultimately stops and displays a specified pattern combination. For example, a reach is a state in which the same performance pattern is temporarily displayed in the left and right pattern rows, and the performance pattern in the center pattern row continues to be displayed in a variable manner. Reach performances include normal reach performances (hereinafter referred to as N reach performances) and super reach performances (hereinafter referred to as SP reach performances), which have a higher chance of winning than N reach performances. As an example, an SP reach performance can be executed via an N reach performance.

The game area YBa is formed with multiple winning holes (ball entry holes) through which game balls can enter. The winning holes include at least a first start hole 12, a second start hole 13, and a large prize hole 14. The first start hole 12 is the winning hole through which game balls enter when the conditions for awarding prize balls and the conditions for starting the first special game are met. The first start hole 12 is located below the performance display device EH, and is always open so that game balls can enter. The game board YB is equipped with a first start sensor SE1 that detects game balls that have entered the first start hole 12 (see Figure 3).

The second starting hole 13 is a winning hole through which the game ball enters when the conditions for awarding the prize ball and the conditions for starting the second special game are met. The second starting hole 13 is located to the right of the first starting hole 12. The second starting hole 13 is provided with a normal opening and closing piece 13a, which is, for example, door-shaped. The second starting hole 13 is closed so that the game ball does not enter or is difficult to enter when a normal winning game is not awarded. The second starting hole 13 is opened so that the game ball enters or is easy to enter when a normal winning game is awarded. The game board YB is provided with a normal solenoid SL1 as a means for operating the normal opening and closing piece 13a (see FIG. 3). The game board YB is provided with a second starting sensor SE2 that detects the game ball that has entered the second starting hole 13 (see FIG. 3). The second starting hole 13 is a so-called "normal electric device".

The big prize opening 14 is an opening through which game balls enter when the conditions for awarding a prize ball are met. The big prize opening 14 is located at the lower right of the performance display device EH. The big prize opening 14 is equipped with a special opening/closing piece 14a, which is, for example, door-shaped. The big prize opening 14 is closed to prevent game balls from entering when a big prize game is not awarded. The big prize opening 14 is opened so that game balls can enter or can easily enter when a big prize game is awarded. The game board YB is equipped with a special solenoid SL2 as a means for operating the special opening/closing piece 14a (see FIG. 3). The game board YB is equipped with a count sensor SE3 that detects game balls that enter the big prize opening 14 (see FIG. 3).

A gate 17 is provided in the game area YBa. The gate 17 is located to the right of the game area YBa, above the second start opening 13 and the big prize opening 14. The gate 17 has a gate opening 17a that is always open so that game balls can enter. A gate sensor SE4 that detects game balls that enter and pass through is provided in the gate opening 17a (see FIG. 3). The gate 17 is an entry opening through which game balls can enter when the starting conditions for the normal game are met. Even if a game ball enters the gate 17, the conditions for awarding prize balls are not met.

The game area YBa is provided with an outlet 18 through which game balls can enter. The outlet 18 is an inlet for retrieving game balls that have not entered the first start port 12, the second start port 13, or the big prize port 14 from the game area YBa.

Next, the big win game will be described.
In the jackpot game, a predetermined performance is first performed for a predetermined time (hereinafter, referred to as the opening time). As an example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance that allows the start of the jackpot game to be recognized. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game in which the large prize winning hole 14 is opened is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. One round game ends when a number condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enters or a time condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed is met. In the round game, the large prize winning hole 14 is opened in a predetermined opening mode (opening pattern). In each round game, a round performance is performed. In the jackpot game, when the final round game ends, a predetermined performance is performed for a predetermined time (hereinafter, referred to as the ending time). As an example, the predetermined performance is an ending performance that allows the end of the jackpot game to be recognized. The jackpot game ends with the ending time elapses.

The functions of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will now be described.
The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a probability fluctuation function (hereinafter referred to as the probability fluctuation function).
The probability variable function is a function for varying the probability of winning a jackpot in a special symbol winning lottery (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot probability). The pachinko gaming machine 10 has two states in which the jackpot probability can differ: a low probability state in which the probability variable function is not activated, and a high probability state in which the probability variable function is activated. The high probability state has a higher jackpot probability than the low probability state. In the high probability state, the jackpot probability is higher than in the low probability state, making it an extremely advantageous state for the player. The high probability state is what is known as a "probability variable state (probability variable state)."

The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a ball entry assist function.
The ball entry assistance function is a function for varying the base by assisting the entry of a ball into the second starting hole 13. The base is the ratio of the number of winning balls to the number of game balls shot. The pachinko game machine 10 has a low base state in which the ball entry assistance function is not activated, and a high base state in which the ball entry assistance function is activated, as states in which the base can be different. In the high base state, the probability that the game ball will enter the second starting hole 13 is higher than in the low base state. In the high base state, the probability that the game ball will enter the second starting hole 13 is higher, and it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 13, making it an advantageous state for the player (easy ball entry state). The high base state is the so-called "electric support state", and the low base state is the so-called "non-electric support state".

For example, the high base state can be realized by performing one of the three controls described below, which are arbitrarily selected, or by combining a plurality of controls. The first control is a normal symbol variation time shortening control that shortens the variation time of the normal game compared to the low base state. The second control is a normal symbol probability variation control that varies the probability of winning the normal winning lottery (normal winning probability) to a higher probability than in the low base state. The third control is an opening time extension control that makes the total opening time of the second start hole 13 in one normal winning game longer than in the low base state. The opening time extension control may be at least one of a control that increases the number of times the second start hole 13 is opened in one normal winning game compared to the low base state, and a control that makes the opening time of the second start hole 13 in one normal winning game longer than in the low base state.

The high base state may be realized by combining the fourth control, which will be described next. The fourth control is a special symbol fluctuation time shortening control that shortens the fluctuation time of the special game (for example, the average fluctuation time) compared to the low base state. When the special symbol fluctuation time shortening control is performed, the high base state becomes a special symbol fluctuation time shortening state (time shortening state), and the low base state becomes a special symbol non-fluctuation time shortening state (non-time shortening state).

The game state in the pachinko game machine 10 is determined by a combination of whether or not the probability bonus function is activated and whether or not the ball entry assistance function is activated. In the following explanation, a game state that is a low probability state and a low base state is referred to as a "low probability low base state," and a game state that is a high probability state and a low base state is referred to as a "high probability low base state." In addition, a game state that is a low probability state and a high base state is referred to as a "low probability high base state," and a game state that is a high probability state and a high base state is referred to as a "high probability high base state."

Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
As shown in Fig. 3, the pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a main board 40 and a sub-board 50 on the back side (rear) of the game board YB. The main board 40 and the sub-board 50 are connected so that a control signal (control command) can be output in one direction from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. The main board 40 executes a predetermined process and outputs a control signal to the sub-board 50. The sub-board 50 executes a predetermined process based on the control signal input from the main board 40.

The main board 40 will now be described.
The main board 40 includes a CPU 41, a ROM 42, a RAM 43, and a random number generating circuit 44. The CPU 41 executes a main control program to execute processes related to the progress of the game. The ROM 42 stores the main control program, judgment values used for various judgments and lotteries, tables, and the like.

The ROM 42 stores a plurality of types of fluctuation patterns. The fluctuation pattern is information that specifies the fluctuation time from the start to the end of the fluctuation game. The fluctuation pattern is information that specifies the fluctuation content (presentation content) of the fluctuation game. There are a jackpot fluctuation pattern and a miss fluctuation pattern. The jackpot fluctuation pattern specifies the fluctuation content that finally stops and displays a jackpot pattern combination after a reach presentation in a presentation game. The miss fluctuation pattern specifies the fluctuation content that finally stops and displays a miss pattern combination after a reach presentation or without a reach presentation in a presentation game. The details of the fluctuation patterns will be described later.

The RAM 43 stores various information that is rewritten depending on the processing results of the CPU 41. For example, the information stored in the RAM 43 is flags, counters, timers, etc. The random number generation circuit 44 generates hardware random numbers. The main board 40 may be configured to be able to generate software random numbers by the random number generation process by the CPU 41.

The main board 40 is connected to each of the sensors SE1 to SE4. The CPU 41 can input detection signals output by each of the sensors SE1 to SE4 when they detect a game ball. The main board 40 is connected to each of the display devices 19a to 19e. The CPU 41 can control the display content of each of the display devices 19a to 19e. The main board 40 is connected to each of the solenoids SL1, SL2. The CPU 41 can control the opening state of the second start opening 13 and the large prize opening 14 by controlling the operation of each of the solenoids SL1, SL2.

Next, the sub-substrate 50 will be described.
The sub-board 50 includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52, and a RAM 53. The CPU 51 executes a sub-control program to perform processing related to the presentation. The ROM 52 stores the sub-control program and a judgment value used in a predetermined lottery. The ROM 52 stores display presentation data used for display presentation, light-emitting presentation data used for light-emitting presentation, and audio presentation data used for audio presentation. The RAM 53 stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the pachinko game machine 10. For example, the information stored in the RAM 53 includes a flag, a counter, and a timer. The sub-board 50 is configured to be able to generate software random numbers by the random number generation process by the CPU 51. The sub-board 50 may include a random number generation circuit and be able to generate hardware random numbers.

The sub-board 50 is connected to the performance display device EH. The CPU 51 is capable of controlling the display content in the display area R of the performance display device EH. The CPU 51 is an example of a display control means for controlling an image display means. The sub-board 50 is connected to a speaker SP. The CPU 51 is capable of controlling the output content of the speaker SP. The sub-board 50 is connected to a decorative lamp LA. The CPU 51 is capable of controlling the light emission mode of the decorative lamp LA. When a performance button BT and a performance lever LV are provided, the performance button BT and the performance lever LV may be connected to the sub-board 50.

Next, various processes performed by the CPU 41 will be described.
The CPU 41 executes a special symbol input process, a special symbol start process, and the like as timer interrupt processes which are performed at predetermined control cycles (for example, 4 ms).

The special symbol input process will be described.
The CPU 41 judges whether the game ball has entered the first start hole 12 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the first start sensor SE1. When the game ball has entered the first start hole 12, the CPU 41 judges whether the first reserved number stored in the RAM 43 is less than the upper limit number. If the first reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 41 adds 1 to the first reserved number to update it. Next, the CPU 41 controls the first reserved display device 19c to display information that can identify the updated first reserved number. The CPU 41 outputs a control command (hereinafter, referred to as the first reserved number command) that can identify the first reserved number after the addition to the sub-substrate 50. In this way, the reserved condition of the first special game can be established when the first reserved number is less than the upper limit number and the game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1.

Next, the CPU 41 acquires the random numbers generated by the random number generation circuit 44, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the RAM 43. For example, the random numbers may be winning random numbers used in the lottery for determining a winning special pattern, winning pattern random numbers used to determine a winning pattern, and variation pattern random numbers used to determine a variation pattern. The CPU 41 stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game, and the order in which the random number information is stored. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number using a predetermined method. By storing the random number information to be used in the first special game in the RAM 43, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can suspend the execution of the first special game until the start conditions are met.

Then, the CPU 41 performs a look-ahead process to output a control command (hereinafter, referred to as a look-ahead command) capable of identifying the variable content of the newly reserved special game to the sub-board 50 based on the value of the random number acquired from the random number generation circuit 44. The look-ahead command is information capable of identifying whether the variable game will be a jackpot. The look-ahead command is information capable of identifying the variable pattern. In the look-ahead process, the CPU 41 determines whether the newly reserved variable game will be a jackpot by determining whether the value of the winning random number acquired from the random number generation circuit 44 is a value that will win in the jackpot lottery described below. The CPU 41 determines the variable pattern of the newly reserved variable game by determining whether the value of the variable pattern random number acquired from the random number generation circuit 44 is a value that will win in each variable process described below. Then, the CPU 41 generates a look-ahead command capable of identifying the identified variable content and outputs it to the sub-board 50. Therefore, by inputting a look-ahead command, the sub-board 50 (CPU 51) can determine the variation content of the variation game whose execution has been put on hold based on the ball entering the starting hole.

When the random number information for the first special game is stored in the RAM 43, if the game ball has not entered the first start hole 12 and if the first reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the CPU 41 determines whether the game ball has entered the second start hole 13 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start sensor SE2. If the game ball has entered the second start hole 13, the CPU 41 determines whether the second reserved number stored in the RAM 43 is less than the upper limit number. If the second reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 41 adds 1 to the second reserved number to update it. The CPU 41 controls the second reserved display device 19d to display information that can identify the second reserved number after the addition. The CPU 41 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved number command) that can identify the second reserved number after the addition to the sub-board 50. The reserved condition for the second special game can be met when the second reserved number is less than the upper limit number and the game ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2.

Next, the CPU 41 acquires random numbers generated within the main board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the RAM 43. The CPU 41 stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that the random number information is used for the second special game, and the order in which the random number information is stored. By storing the random number information used for the second special game in the RAM 43, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can suspend the execution of the second special game until the start conditions of the second special game are met. As described above, the CPU 41 constitutes an example of a suspension means that suspends a variable game in response to the satisfaction of the suspension conditions. When the random number information for the second special game is stored in the RAM 43, if the game ball has not entered the second start hole 13, and if the second suspension number is not less than the upper limit number, the CPU 41 ends the special symbol input process.

Next, the special symbol start process will be described.
The CPU 41 judges whether or not the conditions for starting the special game are met. The CPU 41 judges positively when neither a jackpot game nor a special game is being played, and judges negatively when a jackpot game or a special game is being played. When the conditions for starting the special game are not met, the CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process. When the conditions for starting the special game are met, the CPU 41 judges whether or not the second reserved number is greater than zero. When the second reserved number is zero, the CPU 41 judges whether or not the first reserved number is greater than zero. When the first reserved number is zero, the CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process.

If the first reserved number is greater than zero, the CPU 41 performs processing to execute the first special game. Specifically, the CPU 41 updates the first reserved number by subtracting one. The CPU 41 controls the first reserved display device 19c to display information that can identify the first reserved number after subtraction. The CPU 41 outputs a first reserved number command that can identify the first reserved number after subtraction to the sub-board 50. Next, the CPU 41 obtains from the RAM 43 the random number information that was stored first among the random number information for the first special game. The CPU 41 uses the winning random number identified from the obtained random number information to perform a jackpot lottery (jackpot determination) to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won. The CPU 41 performs a jackpot lottery with a jackpot probability that corresponds to the current probability state.

When a jackpot is won, the CPU 41 performs jackpot variation processing. In the jackpot variation processing, the CPU 41 performs a lottery for a jackpot pattern using a winning pattern random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the jackpot pattern to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 41 performs a lottery for determining a variation pattern using a variation pattern random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among multiple jackpot variation patterns. After that, the CPU 41 ends the special pattern start processing.

If the jackpot is not won, the CPU 41 performs a loss variation process. In the loss variation process, the CPU 41 determines a loss symbol to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 41 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using a variation pattern random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among multiple loss variation patterns. After that, the CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process.

If the second reserved number is greater than zero, the CPU 41 performs processing to execute a second special game. The processing to execute the second special game is the same as the processing to execute the first special game, except that the "first special game" is replaced with the "second special game" and the "first reserved number" is replaced with the "second reserved number", and so a detailed explanation of the processing will be omitted. In other words, the CPU 41 subtracts the second reserved number, draws a jackpot, and performs any of the variable processing based on the results of the jackpot draw, and then ends the special symbol start processing. The CPU 41 also outputs a second reserved number command to the sub-board 50, which can specify the second reserved number after subtraction.

The CPU 41 outputs a variation start command and a special pattern command to the sub-board 50 during the jackpot variation process and the loss variation process. The variation start command is a control command that can identify the variation pattern determined in each variation process and the start of the variation game. The special pattern command is a control command that can identify the special pattern (jackpot pattern or loss pattern) determined in each variation process. Note that the variation start command and the special pattern command are different control commands when the variation process of the first special game is executed and when the variation process of the second special game is executed.

When the special pattern start process is completed, the CPU 41 executes a first special game or a second special game through a process separate from the special pattern start process. When the CPU 41 executes the first special game, it controls the first special pattern display device 19a to start the variable display of a specified pattern. The CPU 41 measures the variable time set in the variable pattern. When the variable time set in the variable pattern has elapsed, the CPU 41 controls the first special pattern display device 19a to statically display the special pattern determined in the special pattern start process. When the variable time set in the variable pattern has elapsed, the CPU 41 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a variable end command) capable of identifying the end of the variable game to the sub-board 50.

When the second special game is executed, the CPU 41 controls the second special symbol display device 19b to start displaying a predetermined symbol. The CPU 41 measures the change time set in the change pattern. When the change time set in the change pattern has elapsed, the CPU 41 controls the second special symbol display device 19b to stop displaying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. When the change time set in the change pattern has elapsed, the CPU 41 outputs a change end command to the sub-board 50. As described above, the CPU 41 is configured to execute the special symbol input process and the special symbol start process, thereby holding a lottery when a game ball enters the start hole. The CPU 41 constitutes an example of an execution means for executing a change game in response to the establishment of a start condition.

The big win game processing will be explained.
The jackpot game process is a process for awarding a jackpot game. When the CPU 41 stops and displays a jackpot symbol in a special game, the CPU 41 executes the jackpot game process after the end of the jackpot special game. The CPU 41 specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (i.e., the type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start process. The CPU 41 awards the specified type of jackpot game.

First, the CPU 41 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an opening command) capable of identifying the start of the opening time to the sub-substrate 50. When the opening time has elapsed, the CPU 41 performs processing to execute the round game. That is, the CPU 41 controls the special solenoid SL2 using the specified opening control data for the jackpot game to open the large prize opening 14. When the number of game balls detected by the count sensor SE3 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit number or the above-mentioned upper limit time has elapsed, the CPU 41 controls the special solenoid SL2 to close the large prize opening 14, thereby ending the round game. The CPU 41 repeats such processing to execute the round game until the upper limit number of round games set for the jackpot game is completed. The CPU 41 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a round command) capable of identifying the start of the round game to the sub-substrate 50 every time the round game is started. When the final round of play ends, the CPU 41 outputs a control command capable of identifying the start of the ending time (hereinafter referred to as the ending start command) to the sub-board 50. When the ending time has elapsed, the CPU 41 ends the jackpot game. The CPU 41 outputs a control command capable of identifying the elapse of the ending time (hereinafter referred to as the ending end command) to the sub-board 50.

The probability transition process for transitioning the probability state will now be described.
When the CPU 41 ends a jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol among the jackpot symbols, the CPU 41 sets a high probability flag in the RAM 43. That is, the CPU 41 controls to a high probability state. After the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol ends, the CPU 41 does not erase the high probability flag until the next jackpot game is awarded. On the other hand, when the CPU 41 ends a jackpot game based on a second jackpot symbol different from the first jackpot symbol, the CPU 41 does not set the high probability flag in the RAM 43. That is, the CPU 41 controls to a low probability state. When the CPU 41 starts a jackpot game and the high probability flag is set, the CPU 41 erases the high probability flag. That is, the CPU 41 controls to a low probability state during a jackpot game.

The process of changing the state of the ball scoring rate will be described.
When the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol or the second jackpot symbol is finished, the CPU 41 sets an operation flag in the RAM 43. That is, the CPU 41 controls to a high base state. After the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol is finished, the CPU 41 counts the number of times the special game is executed after the jackpot game is finished by updating the value of the execution counter stored in the RAM 43 every time the special game is started after the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol is finished. When the special game in which the number of times the special game is executed after the jackpot game is finished reaches the number of times of operation, the CPU 41 erases the operation flag stored in the RAM 43. That is, after the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol is finished, the CPU 41 controls to a low base state when the special game of the number of times of operation is finished. After the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol is finished, the CPU 41 does not erase the operation flag until the next jackpot game is awarded. When the CPU 41 starts a big win game and the activation flag is set, the CPU 41 clears the activation flag. In other words, the CPU 41 controls the big win game to a low base state.

Next, various processes executed by the CPU 51 will be described.
The big win presentation process will now be described.
The jackpot presentation process is a process for executing presentations during jackpot play (hereinafter referred to as jackpot presentations). When an opening command is input, the CPU 51 controls the presentation device group ES to execute an opening presentation. When a round command is input, the CPU 51 controls the presentation device group ES to execute a round presentation. When an ending start command is input, the CPU 51 controls the presentation device group ES to execute an ending presentation. When an ending end command is input, the CPU 51 controls the presentation device group ES to end the ending presentation.

The effect game process will now be described.
The effect game process is a process for executing an effect game as one of the display effects related to the special game during execution of the special game. When the CPU 51 inputs a variation start command and a special symbol command, it controls the effect device group ES including the effect display device EH to execute the effect game.

The CPU 51 determines the symbol combination to be stopped and displayed in the presentation game based on the special symbol command. When a jackpot symbol can be identified from the special symbol command, the CPU 51 determines a jackpot symbol combination (e.g., 777). When a miss symbol can be identified from the special symbol command, the CPU 51 determines a miss symbol combination. When the conditions for executing a reach presentation (hereinafter referred to as the reach condition) are met, the CPU 51 determines a symbol combination including a reach (e.g., 787). When the reach condition is not met, the CPU 51 determines a symbol combination not including a reach (e.g., 783).

The CPU 51 determines the specific variation content (presentation content) of the presentation game based on the variation pattern. As an example, the CPU 51 determines an auxiliary variation pattern that can identify the variation content of the presentation game based on the variation pattern. For example, the CPU 51 may select an auxiliary variation pattern associated with the variation pattern. For example, the CPU 51 may select one from a plurality of auxiliary variation patterns associated with the variation pattern. The auxiliary variation pattern may include variation content that can be identified from the variation pattern. As an example, the variation pattern may be determined to execute a predetermined preview performance. The preview performance is a performance that suggests or notifies the expectation of a jackpot in the variation game being executed. Hereinafter, the preview performance that is determined to be executed by the variation pattern is referred to as a "main preview performance". A reach performance can be said to be one of the main preview performances.

As an example, the CPU 51 determines the preview performance to accompany the performance game based on the fluctuation pattern. Hereinafter, the preview performance that the CPU 51 determines whether to execute based on the fluctuation pattern is referred to as a "sub preview performance". When the CPU 51 executes a sub preview performance, it also determines the performance content. The main preview performance and the sub preview performance each include a specific preview performance. The specific preview performance includes displaying a specific object (hereinafter referred to as a preview object) as an image on the performance display device EH. As an example, various performances that suggest or notify the probability of a jackpot can be classified into one of a number of expectation levels according to the probability of a jackpot. As an example, the probability of a jackpot increases in the order of expectation level 0<1<2<3.

Here, "suggesting" the specified content means hinting at the specified content to the player, but not explicitly showing the specified content to the player. Also, "informing" the specified content means explicitly showing the specified content to the player, and making the player definitively aware of the specified content. As an example, "suggesting" the likelihood of a jackpot means making it possible to recognize that the likelihood of a jackpot is relatively high by the display of characters, effects, etc. As an example, "informing" the likelihood of a jackpot means making it possible to recognize that the likelihood of a jackpot is specific, such as in a confirmed jackpot presentation.

The CPU 51 controls the performance display device EH to start the varying display of the performance symbols in each symbol row in response to input of the variation start command. In other words, the CPU 51 starts the performance game. The CPU 51 controls the performance device group ES including the performance display device EH to execute a main preview performance. The CPU 51 controls the performance device group ES including the performance display device EH to execute a sub preview performance.

When a predetermined timing arrives after the start of the presentation game, the CPU 51 causes the symbol combination to be temporarily frozen and displayed. The CPU 51 causes the symbol combination to be confirmed and frozen and displayed upon input of a variation end command. The CPU 51 may also cause the symbol combination to be confirmed and frozen and displayed upon the passage of a variation time set in the variation pattern. In this case, the variation end command may be omitted. The CPU 51 constitutes an example of an execution means for executing a variation game in response to the establishment of a start condition.

The following describes various display effects executed in relation to the variable game.
As shown in FIG. 2, icon display sections R0 to R4 are set in the display area R of the effect display device EH. In each of the icon display sections R0 to R4, a game icon may be displayed as an example of information indicating a variable game. The game icon includes a variable icon I indicating a variable game being executed and a reserved icon i indicating a variable game being held. The game icon (icon I, i) is an example of a specific image. As an example, the variable icon I may be displayed in the icon display section R0. In each of the icon display sections R1 to R4, the reserved icon i may be displayed according to the reserved order of the variable games. In the icon display sections R0 to R4, a game icon indicating a first variable game or a game icon indicating a second variable game may be displayed.

When a game ball enters either the starting hole 12 or 13 and the number of reserved games reaches n, the reserved icon i is newly displayed in the icon display section Rn. In other words, the reserved icon i is displayed as information indicating a variable game in response to the fact that the variable game has been reserved. As an example, the reserved variable games are executed (consumed) in order of reservation, starting with the earliest reserved variable game. When a reserved variable game is started, the reserved icon i displayed in the icon display section Rn is displayed to move to the icon display section Rn-1 (where n is 2 to 4). The reserved icon i displayed in the icon display section R1 is displayed as a variable icon I to move to the icon display section R0.

The player can recognize the number of reserved games based on the number of reserved icons i displayed on the performance display device EH. The player can recognize the execution (consumption) of a reserved variable game from the situation where the reserved icon i is displayed as a variable icon I on the icon display unit R0. As will be described later, there are multiple types of display modes for the game icons. Based on the display mode of the game icon, the player can recognize the expected probability of winning the variable game corresponding to that game icon. The display mode of the game icon can change in relation to the execution of the variable performance described later.

A specific example of the fluctuation pattern will be described.
As shown in Fig. 4, the variation patterns include variation pattern P10 without reach. The variation patterns include variation patterns P11 to P14 with reach. The variation patterns P11 to P14 are variation patterns in which a reach performance is defined as the main preview performance. The CPU 51 controls the performance display device EH to execute a reach performance when the variation patterns are P11 to P14. As an example, the CPU 51 controls the performance display device EH to execute an N reach performance when the variation pattern is P11. The CPU 51 controls the performance display device EH to execute an N reach performance in the order of N reach performance → SP reach performance when the variation patterns are P12 to P14.

The variation patterns include variation patterns P13 and P14 that determine the execution of a chance-up effect (hereinafter referred to as a CU effect). A CU effect is an example of a main preview effect. The execution timing of a CU effect is determined to be the timing when a reach effect develops from an N reach effect to an SP reach effect. Not limited to this, the execution timing of a CU effect may be determined to be any timing within the period from when a reach is formed to when the presentation game ends. For example, the execution timing of a CU effect may be determined to be the period during which an N reach effect is being executed, the period during which an SP reach effect is being executed, or the period from when an SP reach effect ends to when the presentation game ends.

If the variation pattern is P13, the CPU 51 controls the performance display device EH to execute the first CU performance when the execution timing arrives. If the variation pattern is P14, the CPU 51 controls the performance display device EH to execute the second CU performance when the execution timing arrives. Note that if the variation pattern is P10 to P12, the CPU 51 controls the performance display device EH not to execute the CU performance.

The CU effect is an effect that suggests or notifies the probability of a jackpot in the variable game being executed when the CU effect is executed. The CU effect is an effect that allows the probability of a jackpot to be recognized. As an example, the CPU 41 determines the variation pattern so that the proportion of the selection rate in the case of a jackpot in the total selection rate in the case of a jackpot and in the case of a miss increases in the order of variation patterns P12 < P13 < P14. In this case, the probability of a jackpot increases in the order of no CU effect < first CU effect < second CU effect.

As an example, the second CU performance is executed in a manner in which character A1 is displayed as a preview object on the performance display device EH. As an example, the first CU performance is executed in a manner in which character B1, which is different from character A1, is displayed as a preview object on the performance display device EH. As an example, character A1 is a dog, and character B1 is a cat. In this case, in the CU performance, the expectation of a jackpot can be recognized according to the type of character. The characters that make up the CU performance can be said to be information or elements that make it possible to recognize the expectation of a jackpot. The first CU performance (character B1) is classified as expectation level 2, and the second CU performance (character A1) is classified as expectation level 3.

The sub-preview performance will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 5, as an example, the sub preview effect includes a step-up effect (hereinafter, referred to as SU effect). The SU effect is an effect that suggests or notifies the jackpot expectancy of the variable game being executed when the SU effect is executed. The SU effect is an effect that displays characters corresponding to steps in stages on the effect display device EH as an example of information or elements that enable the jackpot expectancy to be recognized. The SU effect may be executed in an effect game that includes a CU effect. The SU effect may be executed in an effect game that does not include a CU effect.

As an example, the maximum number of steps in an SU performance is 3. As an example, the first step is set to character C2 as a preview object, the second step is set to character B2 as a preview object, and the third step is set to character A2 as a preview object. Without being limited to this, the maximum number of steps in an SU performance may be 2 or 4 or more. As an example, character A2 is a dog, character B2 is a cat, and character C2 is a mouse. The first step (character C2) is classified as expectation level 1, the second step (character B2) is classified as expectation level 2, and the third step (character A2) is classified as expectation level 3. The execution timing of an SU performance is set to the period from the start of the performance game to the timing at which a reach can be formed (hereinafter referred to as reach timing).

As an example, the CPU 51 determines the presentation content of the SU presentation by determining a presentation pattern for the SU presentation. As an example, there are presentation patterns EP11 to EP13 for the SU presentation. Presentation pattern EP11 specifies presentation content that ends up to the first step (character C2). Presentation pattern EP12 specifies presentation content that ends up to the second step (character B2). Presentation pattern EP13 specifies presentation content that ends up to the third step (character A2).

As an example, the CPU 51 determines the presentation pattern in the order of presentation patterns P11<P12<P13 so that the ratio of the selection rate in the case of a jackpot to the total selection rate in the case of a jackpot and in the case of a miss increases. In this case, the probability of winning a jackpot increases as the number of steps increases in the order of 1<2<3.

The change presentation will be explained.
As an example, the change performance includes a fusion display of a material object and a specific object. In the following description, the fusion display of a material object and a specific object may be referred to as a "fusion performance". The material object in the change performance is a preview object constituting a specific preview performance. As an example, the material object is any one of the characters A2, B2, and C2 displayed as an SU performance, and the characters A1 and B1 displayed as a CU performance. The specific object in the change performance is a variation icon I indicating a running variation game, or a pending icon i indicating a pending variation game. That is, the change performance can be executed via a CU performance that progresses to the first step, a CU performance that progresses to the second step, or a CU performance that progresses to the third step. The change performance can be executed via a first CU performance or a second CU performance. The display mode of the game icon as the specific object can be changed via a fusion display with the material object.

Here, the fusion display of the material object and the specific object is not limited to a display state in which the material object and the specific object are arranged so as to overlap. The fusion display of the material object and the specific object may also be a display state in which the material object and the specific object are arranged so as to be in contact with each other. The fusion display of the material object and the specific object may include a predetermined effect display. In this case, the fusion display of the material object and the specific object may also be a display state in which the material object and the specific object are connected via an object as an effect.

Hereinafter, the change effect performed via the SU effect will be referred to as the first change effect. Also, the change effect performed via the CU effect will be referred to as the second change effect. Specific preview effects such as the SU effect and the CU effect are examples of the first effect, and the fusion display of a material object and a specific object (fusion effect) constitutes an example of a second effect that may start after the start of the first effect. In other words, the change effect is composed of a first effect and a second effect. The preview object that appears in the SU effect or the CU effect becomes a material object and may constitute a fusion display with the specific object. In other words, the first effect can be said to be an effect that suggests or notifies the content of the second effect. Also, both the SU effect and the CU effect are examples of the first effect. In other words, it can be said that there are multiple types of first effects.

As described above, the execution timing of the SU effect is set to the period from the start of the effect game until the reach timing. The execution timing of the CU effect is set to the period after the reach timing. In other words, the appearance timing of the preview object that can become a material object differs between the SU effect and the CU effect. Therefore, it can be said that the timing at which the content of the second effect is hinted or announced differs depending on the type of the first effect.

From another perspective, in the effect display device EH, when the execution conditions are met, a preview object that is an image different from the game icon and suggests or notifies the expectation of a jackpot in the variable game being executed can be displayed. The conditions for executing the SU effect and the CU effect are an example of a predetermined special condition. The preview object that constitutes the SU effect or the CU effect is an example of a special image. As mentioned above, the game icon is an example of a specific image. In other words, in the effect display device EH, the special image and the specific image are fused together, and the display mode of the specific image can be changed.

The preview object may be merged with a game icon to form a change effect in which the display mode of the game icon is changed. The preview object may not be merged with a game icon to form a SU effect or a CU effect that is different from the change effect. The change effect is an example of a first specific effect. The SU effect and the CU effect are examples of a second specific effect that is different from the first specific effect.

The icon presentation will now be described.
The display mode of the game icon includes a normal mode, a specific mode, and a special mode. As an example, there is one type of normal mode. The normal mode is a mode in which a white sphere is displayed as the game icon. As an example, there are three types of specific modes. As an example, the first specific mode is a mode in which a blue sphere is displayed, the second specific mode is a mode in which a green sphere is displayed, and the third specific mode is a mode in which a red sphere is displayed. As an example, there are three types of special modes. As an example, the first special mode is a mode in which character C3 is displayed, the second special mode is a mode in which character B3 is displayed, and the third special mode is a mode in which character A3 is displayed. As an example, character A3 is a dog, character B3 is a cat, and character C3 is a mouse. The specific mode and the special mode are modes different from the normal mode and can be said to be display modes of different systems from each other.

The first specific mode (blue sphere) and the first special mode (character C3) are classified as expectation level 1. The second specific mode (green sphere) and the second special mode (character B3) are classified as expectation level 2. The third specific mode (red sphere) and the third special mode (character C3) are classified as expectation level 3. The normal mode is classified as expectation level 0. Icon effects are effects in which the display mode of the game icon is a specific mode or a special mode.

The display mode of the game icon can become a special mode via a change effect. The display mode of the game icon does not become a special mode unless it goes through a change effect. The display mode of the game icon can become a specific mode without going through a change effect. The display mode of the game icon does not become a specific mode via a change effect. In addition, in the icon display sections R1 to R4, a reserved icon i indicating a first change game is displayed when the base is in a low base state, and a reserved icon i indicating a second change game is displayed when the base is in a high base state.

Figures 6 and 7 show an example of the flow of the first change performance. Figures 6(a)-(f) show a situation in which the first change performance is executed for the pending icon i. Figures 7(a)-(f) show a situation in which the first change performance is executed for the variable icon I.

As shown in FIG. 6(a), the performance display device EH is executing a variable game, and three variable game executions are on hold, so that the game icons are displayed in the normal mode in each of the icon display sections R0 to R3. As shown in FIG. 6(b), the performance display device EH executes an SU performance, and proceeds up to the third step. That is, the performance display device EH displays characters B2 and C2 as preview objects, and then character A2. If a change performance is not executed, the preview objects that make up the SU performance are hidden, and the SU performance ends.

As shown in FIG. 6(c), when executing a change performance, the performance display device EH continues to display character A2, which was displayed as the third step of the SU performance. In other words, character A2 as a preview object becomes a material object with an expectation level of 3 in the change performance. Of the one or more reserved icons i, the reserved icon it, whose display state may change through the change performance, is moved to a predetermined position in the display area R. The predetermined position is away from the icon display units R0 to R4 and away from character A2. The reserved icon it becomes a specific object in the change performance. A special object Ef may be displayed on the performance display device EH. The special object Ef is an example of information that suggests or notifies that character A2 and the game icon will merge.

As shown in FIG. 6(d), the display mode of the reserved icon it may not change after the change performance. In this case, in the performance display device EH, the character A2 and the reserved icon it do not move toward the center of the display area R and remain unfused. In other words, the fused display of the character A2 and the game icon is not performed. In this case, the display mode of the reserved icon it does not change from the normal mode with the expectation level 0 and returns to the icon display section R2. In this way, the flow of performance that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (d) in FIG. 6 is a failure route in which the display mode of the reserved icon i does not change. In other words, the icon performance is not executed after the change performance. The performance game continues to be executed after that.

As shown in FIG. 6(e), in the performance display device EH, the character A2 and the reserved icon it may move toward the center of the display area R, resulting in a fusion display. In this example, the fusion display of the character A2 and the game icon is performed in a manner in which these objects (images) are displayed in an overlapping state. At this time, it is also preferable for the special object Ef to be fusion-displayed with the character A2 and the game icon.

As shown in FIG. 6(f), in the performance display device EH, the reserved icon it changes to character A3 after the fusion display of character A2 and the reserved icon it. In other words, the display mode of the game icon changes from the normal mode with expectation level 0 to the third special mode with expectation level 3. The reserved icon it returns to the icon display unit R2. In this way, the flow of performance progressing in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (e) → (f) in FIG. 6 is a successful route in which the display mode of the game icon indicating the pending variable game changes. In other words, the icon performance is executed after the change performance. After that, the performance game continues to be executed.

In FIG. 7, the presentation flow that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (d) is a failure route in which the display mode of the game icon indicating the variable game being executed does not change. On the other hand, in FIG. 7, the presentation flow that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (e) → (f) is a success route in which the display mode of the game icon indicating the variable game being executed changes. Note that for an explanation of the specific execution mode, in the explanation of FIG. 6, "icon display unit R2" should be replaced with "icon display unit R0", "pending icon i" with "variable icon I", and "pending variable game" with "running variable game".

Figures 8 and 9 show an example of the flow of the second change performance. Figures 8(a) to (f) show a situation in which the second change performance is executed for the pending icon i. Figures 9(a) to (f) show a situation in which the second change performance is executed for the variable icon I.

As shown in FIG. 8(a), in the performance display device EH, a variable game is being executed, and the execution of three variable games is pending, so that the game icons are displayed in the normal mode in each of the icon display sections R0 to R3. In the performance display device EH, a reach is formed, and an N reach performance is executed. As shown in FIG. 8(b), in the performance display device EH, character B1 is displayed as a preview object constituting the second CU performance. If a change performance is not executed, the preview object constituting the CU performance is hidden, and the CU performance ends. After that, the performance display device EH executes an SP reach performance.

As shown in FIG. 8(c), when a change performance is executed, the performance display device EH continues to display the character B1 displayed as a CU performance. In other words, the character B1 as a preview object becomes a material object with an expectation level of 2 in the change performance. Of the one or more reserved icons i, the reserved icon it whose display state may change through the change performance is moved to a predetermined position in the display area R. The predetermined position is away from the icon display units R0 to R4 and away from the character B1. The reserved icon it becomes a specific object of the change performance. A special object Ef may be displayed on the performance display device EH. The special object Ef is an example of information that suggests or notifies that the character B1 and the reserved icon it will merge.

As shown in FIG. 8(d), the display mode of the reserved icon it may not change after the change performance. In this case, in the performance display device EH, the character B1 and the reserved icon it do not move toward the center of the display area R and remain unfused. In other words, the fused display of the character B1 and the game icon is not performed. In this case, the display mode of the reserved icon it does not change from the normal mode with the expectation level 0 and returns to the icon display section R2. In this way, the flow of performance that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (d) in FIG. 8 is a failure route in which the display mode of the reserved icon i does not change. In other words, the icon performance is not executed after the change performance. After that, the performance display device EH executes the SP reach performance.

As shown in FIG. 8(e), in the performance display device EH, the character B1 and the reserved icon it may move toward the center of the display area R, resulting in a fusion display. In this example, the fusion display of the character B1 and the game icon is performed in a manner in which these objects (images) are displayed in an overlapping arrangement. At this time, it is preferable that the special object Ef is fusion-displayed with the character B1 and the game icon.

As shown in FIG. 8(f), in the performance display device EH, the reserved icon it changes to character B3 after a fusion display of character B1 and reserved icon it. In other words, the display mode changes from the normal mode with expectation level 0 to a second special mode with expectation level 2. The reserved icon it returns to the icon display unit R2. In this way, the performance flow that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (e) → (f) in FIG. 8 is a successful route in which the display mode of the reserved icon i changes. In other words, after a change performance, an icon performance is executed. After that, the performance display device EH executes an SP reach performance.

In FIG. 9, the flow of presentation that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (d) is a failure route where the display mode of the variable icon I does not change. On the other hand, in FIG. 9, the flow of presentation that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (e) → (f) is a success route where the display mode of the variable icon I changes. Note that for an explanation of the specific execution mode, in the explanation of FIG. 8, "icon display unit R2" should be replaced with "icon display unit R0", "pending icon i" with "variable icon I", and "pending variable game" with "running variable game".

As described above, the fusion effect, which is an example of the second effect, may include the moving display of one of the game icons. The player can understand that the display mode of the game icon may change from the situation in which the game icon is moved. Therefore, the second effect can be said to suggest or notify which game icon will change when multiple game icons are displayed on the effect display device EH. Without being limited to this, the first effect may be configured as an effect that suggests or notifies which game icon will change when multiple game icons are displayed on the effect display device EH, instead of or in addition to the second effect. For example, the first effect may display a character pointing at a game icon that is a specific object.

In the CU performance, the characters A1 and B1 that may appear as the preview object have the same character type as the characters A3 and B3 that form the special mode of the same expectation level. In the SU performance, the characters A2, B2, and C2 that may appear as the preview object have the same character type as the characters A3, B3, and C3 that form the special mode of the same expectation level. In addition, the type of the character that is the material object and the type of the character that forms the special mode after the change through the fusion display are common. For this reason, a player who sees the preview object that appears in the SU performance or the CU performance can recognize that the game icon will change to a special mode corresponding to the preview object when the fusion display is deployed on the successful route. Therefore, the first performance can be said to be a performance that suggests or notifies the display mode of the game icon after the change related to the execution of the change performance including the first performance. Note that the elements that make up the material object (for example, the character, posture, size, color tone, and character string, etc.) may be partially or entirely the same as the elements that make up the specific object after the change through the change performance. Either or both of the material object and the specific object after the change may be configured to include elements that the specific object before the change does not have.

The display mode of the game icon includes a character as an example of a predetermined element. Before and after the character constituting the SU or CU effect is fused with the game icon, at least the type of character among the elements constituting the display mode of the game icon after the change is the same. In the SU or CU effect, the characters that can appear as the preview object include multiple types that suggest or notify different jackpot expectations. The preview object is an example of a special image, and the special image can be said to include a first special image and a second special image. The jackpot expectation suggested or notified by the first special image can be said to be different from the jackpot expectation suggested or notified by the second special image.

In a variable game, when the reach formation timing arrives, a reach is formed and may develop into a reach performance. Also, in a variable game, when the N reach performance ends, it may develop into an SP reach performance. In other words, the content of the variable game can develop at a predetermined timing. Here, the first change performance that goes through the SU performance is executed in the period from the start of the variable game until the reach formation timing. In other words, the first performance and the second performance can start before the predetermined timing. The second change performance that goes through the CU performance is executed in the period after the reach formation timing. In other words, it can be said that the first performance and the second performance can start even after the predetermined timing.

In the SU performance, the expectation level can be any of levels 1 to 3, but in the CU performance, the expectation level is either level 2 or 3. In other words, the jackpot expectation level that can be suggested or notified is different between the SU performance and the CU performance. Therefore, the jackpot expectation level suggested or notified by the first performance is different when the first and second performances start before a specified timing and when the first and second performances start after the specified timing. The SU performance can be executed when no reach is formed, when the N reach performance is not executed, and when the SP reach performance is not executed. Therefore, it can be said that the first and second performances can be executed even when the content of the variable game does not develop into a specific content.

The process flow for executing the change effect will be described.
First, the first performance process will be described. The first performance process is executed when the execution of a new variable game is suspended. As described above, when a game ball enters the first starting hole 12 and the execution of the first variable game is suspended, the CPU 51 inputs a first reserved number command and a look-ahead command.

In the first performance process, the CPU 51 stores information (hereinafter referred to as game information) indicating the variation content of the first variation game identified based on the look-ahead command in the RAM 53. The game information can identify whether or not a jackpot will be reached and the variation pattern as the variation content of the first variation game corresponding to the game information. After storing the game information, the CPU 51 keeps it stored in the RAM 53 until the first variation game corresponding to the game information ends. The CPU 51 can identify the variation content of all first variation games that are on hold by referring to the game information stored in the RAM 53. The game information may be the value of the look-ahead command itself, or may be information generated based on the look-ahead command.

The CPU 51 determines whether the first reserved number, which can be determined from the first reserved number command input together with the look-ahead command, is two or more. The CPU 51 determines whether multiple first variation games are on hold, including the newly reserved first variation game. If the first reserved number is not two or more, the CPU 51 determines an expectation level of 0 as the upper limit expectation level for changing the display mode of the game icon (hereinafter referred to as the upper limit level). In other words, it can be said that the CPU 51 has determined the normal mode as the final mode. It can also be said that the CPU 51 has determined not to execute the icon presentation.

When the first reserved number is 2 or more, the CPU 51 determines the upper limit level to be one of expectation levels 0 to 3 by level lottery using a predetermined random number. When the CPU 51 determines the upper limit level to be one of expectation levels 1 to 3, it can be said that it has decided to execute an icon effect. It can also be said that the CPU 51 determines the upper limit display mode when changing the display mode of the game icon. When the CPU 51 determines the upper limit level to be expectation level 0, it can be said that it has decided not to execute an icon effect.

In the level selection, the CPU 51 determines the expectation level so that the probability of winning increases in the following order: expectation level 0 (normal mode) < level 1 (first special mode or first specific mode) < level 2 (second special mode or second specific mode) < level 3 (third special mode or third specific mode). In order to increase the probability of winning for a certain expectation level or display mode, the level selection can be performed so that the determination ratio for a winning jackpot is higher than the total determined when a winning jackpot is identified based on a look-ahead command and when a loss is identified.

The CPU 51 stores in the RAM 53 various pieces of information that can identify the determination results in the first presentation process. As an example, the CPU 51 stores in the RAM 53 information indicating an upper limit level (hereinafter referred to as a level flag) in association with game information. By referencing the level flag, the CPU 51 can identify the upper limit level (display mode) for each pending or active variable game, that is, for each game icon, when changing its display mode.

The CPU 51 stores information (hereinafter referred to as a current flag) indicating the current expectation level (hereinafter referred to as a current level) of the game icon in the RAM 53 in association with the game information. The CPU 51 sets a value indicating an expectation level of 0 to the current flag as an initial value. The CPU 51 stores information (hereinafter referred to as a mode flag) indicating the current display mode of the game icon in association with the game information in the RAM 53. The CPU 51 sets a value indicating a normal mode to the mode flag as an initial value. The CPU 51 then controls the performance display device EH to display the reserved icon i in the display mode indicated by the mode flag in the icon display area corresponding to the first reserved number indicated in the first reserved number command. In other words, the reserved icon i is displayed in the normal mode.

The second effect process will be described.
The second effect process is executed in response to the input of a variation start command. In the second effect process, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH based on various information that can be specified from the upper limit flag, the current flag, and the mode flag, and controls the display mode of the game icon.

The flow of processing for shifting the game icons will be described.
When the CPU 51 inputs a variation start command, it controls the performance display device EH so that the reserved icon i displayed in the icon display section Rn moves to the icon display section Rn-1. The CPU 51 controls the performance display device EH so that the reserved icon i displayed in the icon display section R1 moves to the icon display section R0 as a variable icon I. At this time, the CPU 51 controls the performance display device EH so that the game icon is displayed in the mode indicated by the mode flag.

The process flow for executing the first change presentation will be described.
The CPU 51 determines whether or not the sub preview effect in the current variation game includes an SU effect. If the sub preview effect in the current variation game does not include an SU effect, the CPU 51 determines not to execute the first variation effect.

When the current sub preview performance includes an SU performance, the CPU 51 determines the expectation level of the SU performance. The CPU 51 also searches for a variation game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the current SU performance, based on the upper limit flag corresponding to the pending or running variation game. When there is no variation game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the SU performance, the CPU 51 decides not to execute the first variation performance of the successful route.

When there is a variable game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the SU effect, the CPU 51 determines whether or not the current level is lower than the expectation level of the SU effect based on the current flag corresponding to the variable game. The CPU 51 grasps the current level at the timing of executing the SU effect (for example, after the start of the effect game and before a reach is formed). When the current level is not lower than the expectation level of the SU effect, the CPU 51 decides not to execute the first change effect. When the current level is lower than the expectation level of the SU effect, the CPU 51 decides to execute the first change effect of the success route. The first change effect of the success route is an example of an icon effect that passes through the first change effect.

In this way, the CPU 51 decides to execute the first change performance of the successful route for a change game (hereinafter referred to as the first specific game) whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the SU performance and whose current level is lower than the expectation level of the SU performance. In this case, the material object in the first change performance is the character in the final step among the characters A2 to C2 that may appear in the SU performance. The specific object in the first change performance is a game icon corresponding to the first specific game. The first specific game may be a change game that is being executed or a change game that is on hold. When there are multiple first specific games, the CPU 51 may decide to execute one change performance of the successful route for that change game by a predetermined lottery.

When the CPU 51 determines not to execute the first change performance of the successful route, it searches for a change game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the current SU performance. When there is no change game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the SU performance, the CPU 51 determines not to execute the first change performance of the failed route by a predetermined lottery. When there is a change game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the SU performance, the CPU 51 determines whether to execute the first change performance of the failed route by a predetermined lottery. When it determines to execute the first change performance of the failed route, the material object in the first change performance is the character of the final step among the characters A2 to C2 that may appear in the SU performance. The specific object in the first change performance is a game icon corresponding to any one of the change games whose current level is less than the expectation level of the SU performance. When there are multiple change games whose current level is less than the expectation level of the SU performance, the CPU 51 may determine one change game by a predetermined lottery and determine to execute the first change performance of the failed route for that change game.

When the CPU 51 determines to execute the first change performance, it controls the performance display device EH to execute the first change performance following the SU performance. When the CPU 51 determines the successful route, it controls the performance display device EH to unfold the first change performance along the successful route. The CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon as the specific object. The CPU 51 updates the mode flag to specify the display mode after the change. As an example, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon as the specific object in the first change performance to a special mode corresponding to the expectation level of the SU performance. As an example, when the material object of the SU performance is character B1, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to character B3. As an example, when the material object of the SU performance is character A1, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to character A3.

On the other hand, when the CPU 51 determines a failure route, it controls the effect display device EH so that the first change effect is displayed on the failure route. In this case, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so that the SU effect is executed and the change effect is not executed. The CPU 51 does not change the display mode of the game icon that is the specified object. The CPU 51 does not change the value of the mode flag.

The process flow for executing the second change presentation will be described.
The CPU 51 judges whether or not the main preview performance in the current variation game includes a CU performance based on the variation pattern. When the main preview performance in the current variation game does not include a CU performance, the CPU 51 decides not to execute the second variation performance.

When the current main preview performance includes a CU performance, the CPU 51 determines the expectation level of the CU performance. The CPU 51 also searches for a variation game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the current CU performance, based on the upper limit flag corresponding to the pending or running variation game. When there is no variation game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the CU performance, the CPU 51 decides not to execute the second variation performance of the successful route.

When there is a variable game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the CU effect, the CPU 51 determines whether or not the current level is lower than the expectation level of the CU effect based on the current flag corresponding to the variable game. The CPU 51 grasps the current level at the timing of execution of the CU effect (for example, after a reach is formed). When the current level is not lower than the expectation level of the CU effect, the CPU 51 decides not to execute the second change effect. When the current level is lower than the expectation level of the CU effect, the CPU 51 decides to execute the second change effect of the success route. The second change effect of the success route is an example of an icon effect that passes through the second change effect.

In this way, the CPU 51 decides to execute the second change performance of the successful route for a change game (hereinafter referred to as the second specific game) whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the CU performance and whose current level is lower than the expectation level of the CU performance. In this case, the material object in the second change performance is either the character A1 or B1 appearing in the CU performance. The specific object in the second change performance is a game icon corresponding to the second specific game. The second specific game may be a change game that is being executed or a change game that is on hold. When there are multiple second specific games, the CPU 51 may decide to execute one change performance of the successful route for that change game by a predetermined lottery.

When the CPU 51 determines not to execute the second change performance of the successful route, it searches for a change game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the current CU performance. When there is no change game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the CU performance, the CPU 51 determines not to execute the second change performance of the failed route. When there is a change game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the CU performance, the CPU 51 determines whether to execute the second change performance of the failed route by a predetermined lottery. When it determines to execute the second change performance of the failed route, the material object in the second change performance is either of the characters A1 or B1 that may appear in the CU performance. The specific object in the second change performance is a game icon corresponding to any of the change games whose current level is less than the expectation level of the CU performance. When there are multiple change games whose current level is less than the expectation level of the CU performance, the CPU 51 may determine one change game by a predetermined lottery and determine to execute the second change performance of the failed route for that change game.

When the CPU 51 determines to execute the second change effect, it controls the effect display device EH to execute the second change effect following the CU effect. When the CPU 51 determines a successful route, it controls the effect display device EH to unfold the second change effect on the successful route. The CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon as the specific object. The CPU 51 updates the mode flag to specify the changed display mode.

As one example, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon that is the specific object in the second change effect to a special mode that corresponds to the expectation level of the CU effect. As one example, when the material object of the CU effect is character B1, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to character B3. As one example, when the material object of the CU effect is character A1, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to character A3.

On the other hand, when the CPU 51 determines a failure route, it controls the effect display device EH so that the second change effect is displayed on the failure route. In this case, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so that the CU effect is executed, but the change effect is not executed. The CPU 51 does not change the display mode of the game icon that is the specified object. The CPU 51 does not change the value of the mode flag.

The flow of processing for executing other icon effects will be described.
When the CPU 51 determines not to execute the first change effect and the second change effect, it judges whether or not there is a change game (hereinafter, referred to as a third specific game) in which the current level is lower than the upper limit level and the current display mode of the game icon is not a special mode among the pending or executing change games. If there is no third specific game, the CPU 51 determines not to execute the icon effect that does not go through the change effect.

If there is a third specific game, the CPU 51 executes a predetermined lottery to determine whether or not to execute an icon effect that does not go through a change effect. Note that if there are multiple third specific games, the CPU 51 may determine one change game through a predetermined lottery and determine to execute an icon effect that does not go through a change effect for the game icon that represents that change game.

The CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so that the display mode of the game icon determined as the target of the icon effect that does not go through a change effect is changed at the timing when the effect game is started. As an example, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to a specific mode with an expectation level that is one level higher. The CPU 51 updates the mode flag to specify the display mode after the change.

The effects of this embodiment will be described.
(1) Certain preview effects such as SU and CU effects are effects that suggest or notify the probability of a jackpot in the variable game being executed. Preview effects having such a nature also suggest or notify the content of the fusion effect. The display mode of the game icon can be changed in association with the execution of the change effect including these preview effects and fusion effects. In other words, the display mode of the game icon is changed in response to the flow of the preview effect and fusion effect in association with the expectation for the variable game being executed. Therefore, the player's interest is improved compared to a configuration in which the display mode of the game icon is changed regardless of the variable game being executed.

(2) The timing at which the content of the fusion effect is suggested or announced varies depending on the type of specific preview effect. This allows for greater diversity in the development of the transformation effects, thereby enhancing the player's interest.

(3) At least one of the preview effect and the fusion effect suggests or notifies the user of a game icon whose display mode may be changed. This allows the user to anticipate whether the display mode of a desired game icon will change in a situation where multiple game icons are displayed.

(4) The preview effect suggests or notifies the player of the changed display mode of the game icon. This allows the player to understand the sequence of events from the execution of the change effect to the change in the display mode of the game icon, and attracts the player's attention as to whether the performance will unfold according to that sequence.

(5) The preview effect and the fusion effect can be executed prior to a specified timing, so that the excitement of the game can be increased in the stage before the content of the variable game develops.
(6) In particular, since the predetermined timing is the timing for reaching a winning position, it is possible to enhance the player's interest throughout the period leading up to the reaching position being reached.

(7) Among the preview effects, the CU effect can be executed after a specified timing. In that case, the CU effect can suggest or indicate a different probability of winning than when the SU effect is executed before the specified timing. Therefore, the importance of the preview effect can be changed before and after the development of the content of the variable game, and the expectation for the changing effects including the preview effect can be changed.

(8) The advance notice effect and the fusion effect can be executed even when the content of the variable game does not develop into a specific content, so that the player's sense of expectation can be maintained.
(9) The display mode of the game icon changes when the preview object, which indicates or notifies the probability of a jackpot in the variable game being executed, is merged with the game icon. This allows the player to feel a sense of expectation for the variable game being executed while also feeling a sense of expectation for the change in the display mode of the game icon, thereby increasing the player's interest.

(10) The display of the preview object can function as an element of an SU or CU effect that suggests or notifies the probability of a jackpot in the variable game being played, or it can be an element of a fusion effect in which the display mode of the game icon changes. This allows for diversity in the development of effects that start from the display of the preview object.

(11) In the SU and CU effects, the expectation that the variable game being played will hit a jackpot can be changed depending on which preview object (a character, as an example) is displayed. Therefore, when a preview object is displayed, the expectation of hitting a jackpot is changed while also being linked to the expectation that the display mode of the game icon will be changed, thereby increasing the player's interest.

The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.
The probability that the display mode of the game icon changes in association with the execution of the change effect may be different between the first change effect and the second change effect. The probability that the display mode of the game icon changes is the expectation that the display mode of the game icon changes through the fusion effect (hereinafter, referred to as the fusion expectation). In this modified example, the fusion expectation differs between when the first effect and the second effect start before a predetermined timing and when the first effect and the second effect start after the predetermined timing. In this modified example, the probability that the display mode of the game icon changes in association with the execution of the change effect differs before and after the predetermined timing. Therefore, the expectation when the change effect is executed can be changed according to the progress of the variable game, thereby improving the interest of the player.

The degree of expectation of fusion may differ depending on the type of character that constitutes the SU or CU effect. In other words, the special image includes a first special image and a second special image, and when the first special image is displayed, the degree of expectation of fusion with the specific image may be different compared to when the second special image is displayed. Characters A1 and A2 are examples of the first special image. Characters B1 and B2 are examples of the second special image. In this modified example, depending on whether the first or second special image is displayed, the degree of expectation of fusion with the specific image, that is, the possibility that the display mode of the specific image will change, can be recognized. Therefore, when a special image is displayed, the player can have a sense of expectation of a big hit and a sense of expectation that the display mode of the specific image will change, which can increase the player's interest. Not limited to this, the degree of expectation of fusion of the first special image may be higher or lower than that of the second special image.

The display mode of the game icon may be configured to include a predetermined element, and at least the predetermined element among the elements that configure the display mode of the game icon may be the same before and after the preview object and the game icon are fused. As an example, assume that a predetermined item is set as the preview object, and a predetermined character is set as the game icon. For example, the expected probability of a jackpot in the variable game being played may differ depending on the type of item displayed as the preview object. In this case, the display mode of the game icon may change from a character that does not have the predetermined item to a character that has the predetermined item after the fusion performance. In this modified example, the predetermined character is an example of a predetermined element. In other words, at least the predetermined element among the elements that configure the display mode of the game icon may be common before and after the fusion with the preview object. According to this modified example, a visual correlation can be created between the game icon after the change that has been fused with the preview object and the game icon before the change. In other words, the change in the game icon can be understood by the player as a series of events. This can increase the interest of the player.

When executing the fusion effect, the CPU 51 may determine by lottery whether or not to display the special object Ef. In this case, when the special object Ef is displayed, the expectation of fusion may be higher than when the special object Ef is not displayed. When changing the display mode of the game icon through the fusion effect, the CPU 51 may determine by lottery whether or not to add an element constituting the special object Ef to the game icon. In this case, when the element constituting the special object Ef is added, the expectation of a jackpot of the variable game shown in the game icon may be higher than when the element is not added. According to this modified example, when the notice object constituting the SU effect or the CU effect and the game icon are fused, a special object Ef different from the notice object and the game icon may be displayed. The special object Ef may constitute a part of the display mode of the game icon after the change. The special object Ef is an example of a special image. According to this modified example, in addition to the notice object and the game icon, a special object may be displayed, and the display mode of the game icon after the change may be constituted by the special object. This allows for greater variety in the way the game icons are displayed.

- The type of main preview performance can be changed as desired. The main preview performance may include a pseudo-sequential performance. A pseudo-sequential performance is a performance in which unit fluctuations separated by re-fluctuations of the performance pattern are executed multiple times during the execution of one fluctuation game. The more unit fluctuations there are in a pseudo-sequential performance, the higher the expectation of a jackpot. In this case, a change performance (fusion performance) can be executed using the preview object displayed during one or more unit fluctuations as a material object.

- The type of sub preview performance can be changed as desired. The sub preview performance may include a cut-in performance in which a cut-in image is temporarily displayed in part or all of the display area R of the performance display device EH. The cut-in image may include a preview object such as a character or text. In this case, a change performance (fusion performance) may be executed using one or more preview objects included in the cut-in image as material objects. The sub preview performance may also include a dialogue (conversation) preview in which a specific character and line are displayed in stages. The character or line included in the dialogue preview is a preview object. In this case, a change performance (fusion performance) may be executed using the preview objects that make up the dialogue preview as material objects.

- The first effects constituting the change effect may all be sub preview effects, or all may be main preview effects. The main preview effect as the first effect may be executed before a specified timing at which the content of the change game develops. The sub preview effect as the first effect may be executed after a specified timing at which the content of the change game develops. The change effect may be executed multiple times before the specified timing at which the content of the change game develops, or may be executed multiple times after the specified timing. The change effects executed multiple times before or after the specified timing may all include only the main preview effect as the first effect, only the sub preview effect, or both. In other words, in one change game, a change effect via a main preview effect may be executed, and then a change effect via a sub preview effect may be executed, and the display mode of the game icon may change in each case.

In one presentation game, the configuration may be such that only one of the sub preview presentation (one example is a SU presentation) and the main preview presentation (one example is a CU presentation) is executed as the first presentation.
In one presentation game, the change presentation may be configured to be executed only once, or may be configured to be executed multiple times. The change presentation may be configured to be executed multiple times from the start of the presentation game until a predetermined timing arrives. The change presentation may be configured to be executed multiple times from the predetermined timing until the presentation game ends.

There may be multiple types of transformation effects. The multiple types of transformation effects may be executed in different ways.
The change effect may be executed as an effect during a jackpot game in addition to or instead of during the variable game.

- The performance display device EH is not limited to being configured to include one display unit capable of displaying various images, but may be configured to include multiple display units. The performance display device EH may be configured in combination with a movable body configured to be able to perform a specified operation. Some or all of the one or more display units that make up the performance display device EH may be provided on the game board YB, or may be provided on the mounting frame 11b.

The game icon may be hidden during a period in which a specific effect is being executed. As one example, the specific effect may be a special reach effect.
- A change pattern may be determined that defines the execution timing of the change performance and the display state of the resultant change after the change performance, and the performance display device EH may be controlled based on the determined change pattern.

- In addition to or instead of being performed on the first variation game in the low base state, the change effects and icon effects may be performed on the second variation game in the high base state, or may be performed on both the first and second variation games.

The first variation game and the second variation game may be executed in the order in which the hold condition is met.
The pachinko game machine 10 may adopt a specification that provides a high probability state until the next big win game, a specification that provides a high probability state until a fall lottery is won (so-called fall machine), or a specification that provides a high probability state until a specified number of variable games are completed (so-called ST machine). The pachinko game machine 10 may adopt a specification that provides a high probability state on the condition that the game ball passes through a specific area (so-called V-type probability machine). The pachinko game machine 10 may be a specification that combines the fall machine specification and the V-type probability machine specification.

- The special pattern winning lottery may include a small win lottery in addition to a big win lottery. If a small win is won in the winning lottery, a small win game (winning game) is awarded after the special game ends. In this embodiment, the number of times (frequency) a small win is won per unit time, or the number of times (frequency) a small win game is awarded per unit time may be controlled to a state (so-called small win RUSH) that is improved compared to a normal game state (for example, a low probability low base state).

- The pachinko gaming machine 10 may adopt a specification classified as the second type, also known as the "wing type" or "airplane type." In this type of pachinko gaming machine, when a gaming ball enters the starting hole, the opening and closing blades (opening and closing members) of the ball entry device (big prize entry hole) open, and the gaming ball that entered the ball entry device enters the special prize hole, generating a big win game.

The CPU 41, the ROM 42, the RAM 43, and the random number generation circuit 44 may be configured on a single chip.
The specific configuration of the game board YB may be changed as desired.

- The pachinko gaming machine 10 may have the sub-substrate 50 as a sub-general control substrate, and may also have a display control substrate that specializes in controlling the performance display device EH, a light emission control substrate that specializes in controlling the decorative lamps LA, and a sound control substrate that specializes in controlling the speaker SP, separate from the sub-substrate 50. Such a sub-general control substrate and substrates that control other performances may be combined to form the sub-substrate. In an embodiment, the CPU 41 and CPU 51 may be mounted on a single substrate. The display control substrate, light emission control substrate, and sound control substrate may also be combined in any manner to form a single or multiple substrates.

The technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described.
(Note 1) A game device comprising a hold means for holding a variable game in response to the establishment of a hold condition, an execution means for executing a variable game in response to the establishment of a start condition, an image display means comprising one or more display units capable of displaying various images, and a display control means for controlling the image display means, wherein the image display means displays a specific image in response to the variable game being held on hold, and the display mode of the specific image is changeable in relation to the execution of a change effect, the change effect comprising a first effect and a second effect that can be started after the start of the first effect, and the first effect is an effect that suggests or notifies the content of the second effect and also suggests or notifies the expected probability of a jackpot of the variable game being executed when the first effect is executed.

(Note 2) The device includes a hold means for holding a variable game in response to the establishment of a hold condition, an execution means for executing a variable game in response to the establishment of a start condition, an image display means including one or more display units capable of displaying various images, and a display control means for controlling the image display means, and the image display means displays a specific image in response to the variable game being held on hold, and when a predetermined special condition is established, a special image different from the specific image and indicating or notifying the probability of a jackpot in the variable game being executed is displayed, and the special image and the specific image are fused together, and the display mode of the specific image can be changed.

A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, B3, C2, C3... Characters Ef... Special objects EH... Performance display device I... Variable icon i... Reserve icon R... Display area 10... Pachinko machine 40... Main board 41... CPU 50... Sub-board 51... CPU

Claims (1)

A reservation means for reserving a variable game in response to establishment of a reservation condition;
An execution means for executing a variable game in response to establishment of a starting condition;
An image display means including one or more display units capable of displaying various images;
A display control means for controlling the image display means,
In the image display means, a specific image is displayed in response to the variable game being put on hold, and a display mode of the specific image is changeable via a change effect.
The change performance is performed by displaying a special image, and the change performance includes a first performance and a second performance that can be started after the start of the first performance,
The first performance is a performance that suggests or notifies the content of the second performance, and also suggests or notifies the winning expectation of a variable game that is being executed when the first performance is executed,
The probability of winning varies depending on the type of the special image,
In the first performance, there is a first situation and a second situation in which at least a part of the special image that can be displayed is different from that in the first situation,
The content of the variable game can be developed at a predetermined timing, and the first and second effects can be started before the predetermined timing;
The special image includes a character as an element, and the specific image, when changing through the transformation performance, is changed to a display mode including the same character as the special image constituting the transformation performance as an element,
A gaming machine characterized in that the characters that can be displayed as elements of the special image include characters that can be displayed in both the first situation and the second situation, and characters that are not displayed in the first situation but can be displayed in the second situation .

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