JP7590776B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

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

Conventionally, in pachinko gaming machines, when a predetermined condition is met, such as when a gaming ball enters the starting hole, a jackpot determination is made to determine whether or not a jackpot has been reached. When a jackpot determination is made, a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. After the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, the special symbol is displayed stationary in a manner that indicates the result of the jackpot determination. When the special symbol is displayed stationary in a manner that indicates a jackpot, the machine may be controlled to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player (see Patent Document 1).

In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, a predetermined image may be displayed when the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, but the display content of the predetermined image may change (be switched).

JP 2019-118416 A

However, there is still room for improvement in gaming machines where the display content of a specific image can change (be switched) in order to increase the interest in gaming.

The gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
A performance execution means capable of executing a performance on the display unit,
The effect execution means may execute a specific effect of displaying a predetermined image on the display unit,
The specific performance includes a first specific performance and a second specific performance,
In the first specific performance, the predetermined image appears to rotate at least a predetermined angle around a straight line in a predetermined direction on a plane including the display unit as a rotation axis, and the display content of the predetermined image after the rotation is different from that before the rotation,
During the rotation of the first specific performance, a state may occur in which the display content before the rotation and the display content after the rotation cannot be recognized.
In the second specific performance, after the displayed predetermined image is erased, the predetermined image having a different display content from that before the erasure is displayed,
The time required for the display contents after rotation to become recognizable from the display contents before rotation in the first specific performance is different from the time required for the display contents after erasure to become recognizable from the display contents before erasure in the second specific performance .

1 is a perspective view of a pachinko gaming machine according to a basic embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A is a front view illustrating the standby state of the movable body, FIG. 1B is a front view illustrating the moving state of the movable body, and FIG. 1C is a front view illustrating the rotating state of the movable body. FIG. 1 is a rear view of a pachinko gaming machine according to a basic embodiment of the present invention. A block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the game control board. A block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the performance control board. (A) is a table showing regular map-related judgment information, and (B) is a table showing special map-related judgment information. (A) is an example of the configuration of a hit determination table, (B) is an example of the configuration of a normal game fluctuation pattern determination table, and (C) is an example of the configuration of an auxiliary game control table. 1A is an example of a jackpot determination table, FIG. 1B is an example of a jackpot symbol type determination table, and FIG. 1C is an example of a reach determination table. This is an example of the configuration of a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table. This is an example of the configuration of a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table. 13 is a configuration example of a first read-ahead determination table. 13 is a configuration example of a second pre-reading determination table. 13A is an example of the configuration of a jackpot game control table, and FIG. 13B is an example of the configuration of a game status setting table. FIG. 13A is a diagram showing an example of a demo video, and FIG. 13B is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen. (A) is a diagram showing an example of a first normal background image, (B) is a diagram showing an example of a second normal background image, (C) is a diagram showing an example of a third normal background image, (D) is a diagram showing an example of a special bonus background image, and (E) is a diagram showing an example of a time-saving background image. FIG. 1A is a diagram showing an example of a big win opening presentation, FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of a round presentation, and FIG. 1C is a diagram showing an example of a big win ending presentation. 1A is a diagram showing an example of a performance pattern, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of a performance pattern display area. This is a diagram showing an example of a special chart change presentation when there is no reach and it is a miss. This is a diagram showing an example of the special chart change performance from the start to the reach. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an N reach. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an L reach. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of an L reach, which is a continuation of FIG. 23. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an SP reach. This is a diagram showing an example of an SP reach, which is a continuation of Figure 25. This is a diagram showing an example of an SP reach, which is a continuation of Figure 26. A figure showing an example of a movable object presentation. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an operation presentation. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a hold presentation. A figure showing an example of a hold change notice. A figure showing an example of a hold change notice. 13 is a flowchart of a game control main process. 13 is a flowchart of the game control side timer interrupt processing. 13 is a flowchart of a sensor detection process. 36 is a flowchart of the sensor detection process, which is a continuation of FIG. 35 . 13 is a flowchart of a normal operation process. 13 is a flowchart of a special action process. 13 is a flowchart of a special symbol waiting process. This is a flowchart of the special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination process. 13 is a flowchart of special pattern change processing. 13 is a flowchart of a special symbol determination process. 13 is a flowchart of a main process for performance control. 13 is a flowchart of a 1 ms timer interrupt process. 13 is a flowchart of a 10 ms timer interrupt process. 13 is a flowchart of a received command analysis process. 47 is a flowchart of the received command analysis process, which is a continuation of FIG. 46. This is an example of the configuration of a special chart 1 variation pattern determination table related to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of a normal full rotation reach. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of a special full rotation reach. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of a special full rotation reach. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of a special full rotation reach. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of a special full rotation reach. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a modified example of a specific example of a special full rotation reach. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a stage image according to the second embodiment. This is an explanatory diagram explaining the third step-up notice that develops to the third stage through the third development path pattern A. This is an explanatory diagram explaining the third step-up notice that develops to the third stage through the third development path pattern B. This is an explanatory diagram explaining the third step-up notice that develops to the third stage through the third development path pattern B. 13A is an example of the configuration of a step-up notice execution determination table according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 13B is an example of the configuration of a final stage number determination table according to the second embodiment. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a development path pattern determination table. This is an example of the configuration of a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table related to the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a stage image according to the third embodiment. This is an explanatory diagram that explains a specific example of a special N reach that includes a preview after a normal reach. This is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of a normal development presentation. An explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of the third normal step-up notice. This is an explanatory diagram that explains a specific example of a connection from a post-reach notice connection effect to a post-reach notice. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a connection from an advanced performance connection performance to an advanced performance. An explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of a connection from an SP reach connection effect to an SP reach. 13 is a configuration example of a step-up notice execution determination table according to the third embodiment. 13 is a configuration example of a final stage number determination table according to the third embodiment.

<Basic embodiment>
First, a basic embodiment of the present invention, which is the premise of the characteristic parts of the gaming machine of the present invention, will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. In each of the drawings, the same parts are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions of the same parts will be omitted as a rule. In the following, for the sake of simplicity of description, by writing a symbol or code referring to information, signal, physical quantity, member, etc., the name of the information, signal, physical quantity, member, etc. corresponding to the symbol or code may be omitted or abbreviated.

1. Mechanical Configuration of the Gaming Machine The following describes the pachinko gaming machine PY, which is a basic embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention. First, the mechanical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PY will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. In the following description, the left, right, up and down directions of each part of the pachinko gaming machine PY refer to the left, right, up and down directions (as viewed from the front) of a player facing the pachinko gaming machine PY. In addition, the "front" will be described as the direction approaching the player facing the pachinko gaming machine PY from the pachinko gaming machine PY, and the "rear" will be described as the direction approaching the pachinko gaming machine PY from the player facing the pachinko gaming machine PY.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko game machine PY comprises a game board unit YU including a game board 1, and a game machine frame 2 that houses the game board unit YU inside. The game machine frame 2 comprises a frame-shaped outer frame 21 that is fixed to an amusement facility, an inner frame 22 that is attached to the outer frame 21 and to which the game board unit YU is attached, and a front door 23 that is supported by the inner frame 22 so as to be freely rotatable.

The outer frame 21, inner frame 22, and front door 23 have roughly the same outer peripheral shape when viewed from the front. The inner frame 22 is attached to the front of the outer frame 21.

The front door 23 can be opened and closed relative to the inner frame 22. The front door 23 has a frame-shaped front frame 23m with a large opening of a substantially vertically elongated rectangle formed in the center, and a transparent plate 23t fitted into the opening. When the front door 23 is closed, the game board 1 included in the game board unit YU faces the transparent plate 23t. The transparent plate 23t is made of a transparent synthetic resin plate and is formed into a substantially vertically elongated rectangle. Therefore, when the pachinko game machine PY is installed in a game arcade, a player in front of the pachinko game machine PY can see the game area 6 formed on the front of the game board 1 through the transparent plate 23t. Note that a transparent glass plate may be used as the transparent plate 23t instead of a transparent synthetic resin plate. It is sufficient that the game area 6 can be seen through the transparent plate 23t from the front of the pachinko game machine PY.

A handle 72k that can be rotated to launch the game ball is provided at the lower right of the front of the front frame 23m. The amount by which the handle 72k is rotated (rotation angle) corresponds to the amount of force (launch strength) that is applied to the game ball to launch it. Thus, the game ball is launched with a launch strength that corresponds to the rotation of the handle 72k.

In addition, the lower part of the front surface of the front frame 23m is provided with an upper tray 34 that protrudes significantly forward, and a lower tray 35 that is disposed directly below the upper tray 34. A first performance button 40k that can be pressed downward is provided in the center of the front side of the upper tray 34. The operating portion of the first performance button 40k that protrudes visibly from the upper surface of the upper tray 34 is molded in a hemispherical shape. Furthermore, a supply ball storage hole 34A is formed on the rear side of the upper surface of the upper tray 34 for storing game balls supplied to the handle 72k. In addition, a surplus ball storage hole 35A is provided on the upper surface of the lower tray 35 for storing surplus game balls that cannot be accommodated in the supply ball storage hole 34A.

Furthermore, the upper decorative body 31, the right decorative body 32, and the left decorative body 33 are provided on the upper side, right side, and left side of the transparent plate 23t on the front of the front frame 23m, which protrude forward. On the bottom surface of the upper decorative body 31, a pair of two speakers 52 capable of outputting sound, specifically the speaker 52L arranged on the left side and the speaker 52R arranged on the right side, are arranged side by side facing downward and spaced a certain distance apart in the left-right direction. In addition, a second performance button 41k that can be pressed downward is provided on the lower part of the right decorative body 32. The operating portion of the second performance button 41k is shaped like a rod. Furthermore, a frame lamp 53 that can emit light is provided from the right decorative body 32 to the front right part of the upper tray 34, and from the left decorative body 33 to the front left part of the upper tray 34.

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

Next, the game board unit YU will be described using FIG. 2 in addition to FIG. 1. The game board unit YU has a game board 1 and a board presentation unit EU attached to the back of the game board 1. First, the game board 1 will be described. The game board 1 is made of a transparent synthetic resin plate. An opening 1A that is roughly circular when viewed from the front is formed in approximately the center of the game board 1.

A roughly ring-shaped center decorative body 61 is formed on the front surface of the game board 1, protruding forward along the opening 1A. In addition, on the outside of the center decorative body 61, an outer rail 62 is formed in a roughly ring shape so as to largely surround the center decorative body 61, and between the left side portion of the outer rail 62 and the center decorative body 61, a curved inner rail 63 is formed which is roughly parallel to the outer rail 62 and the center decorative body 61.

The area on the front side of the game board 1 surrounded by the center decorative body 61, the outer rail 62, the inner rail 63, etc. forms the game area 6. In other words, the front side of the game board 1 is divided into the game area 6 and other areas by the center decorative body 61, the outer rail 62, and the inner rail 63. The area surrounded by the outer rail 62 and the inner rail 63 also forms the launch area 7 through which the launched game ball can pass on its way to the game area 6.

The play area 6 is an area in which game balls released by operating the handle 72k can flow down, and is provided for playing on the pachinko game machine PY. In addition, a large number of game nails (not shown) are protruding from the play area 6. The game nails form a path that appropriately guides game balls that enter the play area 6 and flow down the play area 6 to the general winning opening 10, the first starting opening 11, the second starting opening 12, the gate 13, and the big winning opening 14, etc.

A general winning device 10D is provided at a predetermined position in the game area 6. In the general winning device 10D, a general winning port 10 is formed so that game balls can enter. When a game ball enters the general winning port 10, a predetermined number of game balls (e.g., three) are paid out as prize balls. Game balls that enter the general winning port 10 are discharged directly to the outside of the game area 6.

In addition, a first start winning device 11D is provided directly below the center of the center decoration 61 in the game area 6. In the first start winning device 11D, the first start opening 11 is formed so that game balls can enter. The first start winning device 11D has a non-operational structure. Therefore, the ease with which game balls can enter the first start opening 11 remains constant (unchanging). When a game ball enters the first start opening 11, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, four) are paid out as prize balls. The game balls that enter the first start opening 11 are simply discharged outside the game area 6.

A warp section 61w is formed from the left side to the bottom end of the center decorative body 61, allowing the game ball to pass inside. The entrance to the warp section 61w is formed on the left side of the center decorative body 61. The game ball that enters the warp section 61w passes through the inside of the warp section 61w and exits from the exit. Near the exit of the warp section 61w, on the upper surface of the bottom end of the center decorative body 61, a stage 61s is provided on which the game ball can roll. A downward guide section 61y that guides the game ball downward is provided at the tip of the stage 61s. A first starting hole 11 is provided directly below this downward guide section 61y.

Directly below the first starting hole 11 in the game area 6, a second starting winning device (so-called "electric chute") 12D is provided. The electric chute 12D is formed with a second starting hole 12 that can be changed between a closed state where the game ball cannot enter and an open state where the ball can enter. The second starting hole 12 takes the closed state and the open state by an electric chute opening/closing member 12k provided on the electric chute 12D. In other words, the second starting hole 12 opens and closes by the operation of the electric chute opening/closing member 12k.

The electric chute opening/closing member 12k is an approximately L-shaped member when viewed from the front, and normally closes the second starting hole 12. The electric chute opening/closing member 12k can protrude forward from a retracted state in which the front end surface is flush with the play area 6. When the electric chute opening/closing member 12k protrudes forward, it protrudes vertically into the play area 6, and the second starting hole 12 opens to allow the ball to enter. Specifically, the vertical portion erected at the left end of the horizontal portion of the electric chute opening/closing member 12k receives the game ball, and the game ball is guided from the horizontal portion to the second starting hole 12.

In this way, game balls can enter the second starting hole 12 only when the electric chute opening/closing member 12k is in the open state. When a game ball enters the second starting hole 12, a predetermined number of game balls (e.g., two) are paid out as prize balls. Game balls that enter the second starting hole 12 are simply ejected outside the game area 6.

A gate 13 is provided to the right of the center decorative body 61. The gate 13 is configured to allow game balls to pass through. Even if a game ball passes through the gate 13, no prize balls are paid out. Game balls that pass through the gate 13 simply flow down the game area 6.

A large prize winning device 14D is provided to the right of the first start winning device 11D in the game area 6, downstream of the gate 13. The large prize winning device 14D is formed with a large prize winning opening 14 that can be changed between a closed state where game balls cannot enter and an open state where game balls can enter. The large prize winning opening 14 is switched between a closed state and an open state by an AT opening/closing member 14k provided on the large prize winning device 14D. In other words, the large prize winning opening 14 is opened and closed by the operation of the AT opening/closing member 14k.

The AT opening/closing member 14k is a movable member consisting of a flat plate that is roughly horizontally elongated when viewed from the front, and normally closes the large prize opening 14. A horizontal rotation shaft is provided at the lower end of the AT opening/closing member 14k. The AT opening/closing member 14k can rotate approximately 90 degrees around the rotation shaft so that the upper end falls forward. When the AT opening/closing member 14k rotates, it protrudes vertically into the play area 6, and the large prize opening 14 is opened to allow balls to enter.

In this way, game balls can enter the large prize opening 14 only when the AT opening/closing member 14k is in the open state. When a game ball enters the large prize opening 14, a predetermined number of game balls (in the basic embodiment, one) are paid out as prize balls. Note that the game ball that enters the large prize opening 14 is simply ejected outside the game area 6.

In addition, below the big prize device 14D in the game area 6, a guide path 64 is formed with its upper surface diagonally downward to the left, and protrudes forward from the game area 6 (the front surface of the game board 1) to guide the game ball to the second starting hole 12. Note that the game ball rolling on the upper surface of the guide path 64 can flow down toward the second starting hole 12, but generally cannot enter the first starting hole 11.

The entry of game balls into the first start gate 11, the second start gate 12, the big prize gate 14, and the general prize gate 10, and the passage of game balls through the gate 13 are collectively referred to as "winning" at the first start gate 11, the second start gate 12, the big prize gate 14, the general prize gate 10, and the gate 13.

The game area 6 into which the game balls can flow can be divided into a left game area 6A on the left side of the center in the left-right direction, and a right game area 6B on the right side. The operation mode of the handle 72k that launches the game ball so that it flows down the left game area 6A is called "left hit." On the other hand, the operation mode of the handle 72k that launches the game ball so that it flows down the right game area 6B is called "right hit."

In the game area 6, the flow path through which the game ball can flow when shot from the left is called the first flow path R1, and the flow path through which the game ball can flow when shot from the right is called the second flow path R2. The first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 are also configured with a large number of game nails (not shown).

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

In addition, at approximately the bottom of the game area 6, two outlets 19 are provided for discharging game balls that have been shot into the game area 6 but have not entered any of the winning holes to the outside of the game area 6. In addition, the number of winning balls that enter each winning hole can be set appropriately.

Next, we will explain the board performance unit EU attached to the back of the game board 1. The board performance unit EU is a unit made up of multiple devices that mainly perform the performance. An image display device 50 and a board moving device 55 are attached to the board performance unit EU.

The image display device 50 is composed of a 20-inch 3D liquid crystal display and has a display unit 50a capable of displaying 3D images. The image display device 50 is positioned a few centimeters behind the game board 1.

The board moving device 55 includes a movable board body 55k. The board moving body 55k has a horizontally long, plate-shaped lifting member 55k2 that is held horizontal, and a roughly elliptical rotating member 55k1 that is provided in the center of the lifting member 55k2 in the left-right direction. The board moving body 55k is disposed between the game board 1 and the image display device 50. In the standby state in which the board moving body 55k is disposed in the initial position, the lower end portion of the board moving body 55k, specifically the lower end portion of the rotating member 55k1, is located slightly below the upper end of the opening 1A of the game board 1. In other words, in the standby state, the board moving body 55k is disposed so that only a portion of the lower end of the rotating member 55k1 is visible to the player, and most of it is not visible (see FIG. 3(A)).

The movable platen body 55k can generally descend from the initial position to a predetermined operating position, and then rise from the operating position to return to the initial position (see FIG. 3(B)). The predetermined operating position is a position where the movable platen body 55k is located approximately in the center of the opening 1A when viewed from the front. Here, the predetermined working position can be set appropriately, and may be a position where the movable platen body 55k is located above or below approximately the center of the opening 1A when viewed from the front.

The rotating member 55k1 can rotate clockwise and counterclockwise when viewed from the front about a rotation axis formed in the center in the front-rear direction (see FIG. 3(C)). The rotating member 55k1 can rotate when the movable plate body 55k moves from the standby position to the operating position, when it is held at the operating position, and when it moves from the operating position to the standby position.

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

Next, the displays 8 arranged to the right of the vertical center of the play area 6 formed on the front of the game board 1 (part other than the play area 6) will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the displays 8 include a special symbol 1 display 81a that variably displays the first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as "special symbol 1"), a special symbol 2 display 81b that variably displays the second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as "special symbol 2"), and a regular symbol display 82 that variably displays the regular symbol (hereinafter referred to as "regular symbol"). The displays 8 also include a special symbol 1 reserved display 83a that displays the number of reserved special symbols 1, which will be described later, and a special symbol 2 reserved display 83b that displays the number of reserved special symbols 2, which will be described later.

The variable display of special chart 1 is executed when a special chart 1 lottery is held triggered by the entry of a game ball into the first starting hole 11. The variable display of special chart 2 is executed when a special chart 2 lottery is held triggered by the entry of a game ball into the second starting hole 12. The special chart 1 lottery and the special chart 2 lottery will be described later. In the following explanation, special chart 1 and special chart 2 are collectively referred to as "special charts", and the special chart 1 lottery and special chart 2 lottery are collectively referred to as "special chart lottery". In addition, the special chart 1 display 81a and the special chart 2 display 81b are collectively referred to as "special chart display 81". Furthermore, the special chart 1 reserve display 83a and the special chart 2 reserve display 83b are collectively referred to as "special chart reserve display 83".

The variable display of the special chart notifies the result of the special chart lottery. In the variable display of the special chart, the special chart is displayed variably and then displayed statically. The statically displayed special chart (static special chart) is identification information that represents the result of the special chart lottery derived as the display result of the variable display. If the statically displayed special chart is a specific special chart that has been determined in advance, a jackpot game is played, which involves the opening of the jackpot opening 14.

The special chart 1 display 81a and the special chart 2 display 81b each consist of eight LEDs arranged side by side. The lighting state of the special chart 1 display 81a and the special chart 2 display 81b represents the special chart according to the result of the special chart lottery, that is, the result of the special chart lottery. For example, if the result of the special chart lottery is a jackpot, the first, second, fifth, and sixth LEDs from the left will be lit up, as in "□□■■□□■■" (□: lit, ■: unlit). This lighting state is the jackpot pattern and represents a jackpot. Also, if the result of the special chart lottery is a miss, only the rightmost LED will be lit up, as in "■■■■■■■□". This lighting state is the miss pattern and represents a miss. The lighting state of the LEDs corresponding to the result of the special chart lottery is not limited and can be set appropriately. Therefore, for example, all LEDs may be turned off as a miss pattern.

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

However, in the pachinko game machine PY, even if a game ball enters the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12, there are cases where the special chart lottery and the variable display of the special chart are not performed immediately. Specifically, this is the case when a game ball enters the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12 while the variable display of the special chart is being executed or while a jackpot game is being executed. In this case, the special chart lottery and the variable display of the special chart are put on hold based on that entry. This reserved special chart lottery and variable display of the special chart is called "special chart hold."

The special chart reserves include "special chart 1 reserve," which represents the special chart 1 lottery and the variable display of special chart 1 reserved based on winning at the first starting gate 11, and "special chart 2 reserve," which represents the special chart 2 lottery and the variable display of special chart 2 reserved based on winning at the second starting gate 12. The number of special chart 1 reserves, i.e., the number of reserved special chart 1 lotteries and variable displays of special chart 1, is displayed by the special chart 1 reserve indicator 83a. Meanwhile, the number of special chart 2 reserves, i.e., the number of reserved special chart 2 lotteries and variable displays of special chart 2, is displayed by the special chart 2 reserve indicator 83b.

It is possible to set an upper limit on the number of reserved special drawings 1 and the number of reserved special drawings 2, or not. Furthermore, when an upper limit is set on the number of reserved special drawings 1 and the number of reserved special drawings 2, the number of reserved special drawings 1 and the number of reserved special drawings 2 may be the same or different. In the basic embodiment, the upper limit on the number of reserved special drawings 1 and the number of reserved special drawings 2 is set to "4".

The special chart 1 reserve indicator 83a and the special chart 2 reserve indicator 83b each consist of four LEDs, and the number of special chart 1 reserves and special chart 2 reserves is displayed by lighting the LEDs corresponding to the number of special chart 1 reserves and special chart 2 reserves. In the following, the number of special chart 1 reserves is referred to as the "special chart 1 reserve number (U1)," and the number of special chart 2 reserves is referred to as the "special chart 2 reserve number (U2)." Furthermore, the "special chart 1 reserve number" and the "special chart 2 reserve number" are collectively referred to as the "special chart reserve number." Furthermore, the "special chart 1 reserve indicator 83a" and the "special chart 2 reserve indicator 83b" are collectively referred to as the "special chart reserve indicator 83."

The variable display of the normal map is executed when a normal map lottery is held in response to the entry of a game ball into the gate 13. The variable display of the normal map notifies the result of the normal map lottery. In the variable display of the normal map, the normal map is displayed statically after being displayed variably. The statically displayed normal map (static normal map) is identification information that represents the result of the normal map lottery derived as the display result of the variable display. If the statically displayed normal map is a specific normal map that has been determined in advance, an auxiliary game is played that involves the opening of the second starting hole 12.

The regular map display 82 is composed of, for example, two LEDs. The lighting mode of the regular map display 82 represents the regular map according to the result of the regular map lottery, i.e., the result of the regular map lottery. If the result of the regular map lottery is a win, then both LEDs will ultimately light up as in "□□" (□: lit, ■: off). This lighting mode is the winning symbol and represents a win. If the result of the regular map lottery is a loss, then ultimately only the right LED will light up as in "■□". This lighting mode is the losing symbol and represents a loss. Note that the lighting mode of the LEDs corresponding to the result of the regular map lottery is not limited and can be set as appropriate. For example, a mode in which all LEDs are off may be adopted as a losing symbol.

Before the normal map is displayed as stopped, the normal map is displayed as changing for a specified time. In a basic embodiment, the normal map is displayed as changing by both LEDs lighting up alternately. Note that the normal map display is not particularly limited, and may be appropriately set to flash all the LEDs at once, for example, unless each LED is displayed as stopped (lighted up in a specific manner).

2. Electrical Configuration of the Game Machine Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine PY will be described based on Figures 5 to 7. As shown in Figure 5, on the back side of the pachinko game machine PY, there are attached a game control board 100 that controls the game (game progress) that can obtain a game profit, a performance control board 120 that controls the performance according to the game control by the game control board 100, an image control board 140 that controls the image, a payout control board 170 that controls the payout of game balls, and a power supply board 190 that supplies power to each board 100, 120, 140, 170.

A power switch 191 is connected to the power supply board 190. The power supply is turned on/off by turning the power switch 191 on/off.

As shown in FIG. 6, the game control board 100 is equipped with a one-chip game control microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as "game control microcomputer") 101 that controls the progress of the game on the pachinko game machine PY according to a program. Therefore, the game control board 100 can be positioned as a game control unit that controls the game. Games that can earn game profits and are subject to the control of the game control board 100 include special chart lottery, variable display of special chart, jackpot game, game state setting described below, regular chart lottery, variable display of regular chart, auxiliary game, etc.

The game control microcomputer 101 includes a game ROM (Read Only Memory) 103 that stores programs and tables for controlling the progress of the game, a game RAM (Random Access Memory) 104 that is used as a work memory, and a game CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102 that executes the programs stored in the game ROM 103.

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

The game RAM 104 is also provided with a special chart reservation memory unit 105. Here, the special chart reservation memory unit 105 will be described. As described above, when a game ball wins the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12, a special chart reservation can occur. When a special chart reservation is possible, that is, when the number of special chart reservations has not reached the upper limit, judgment information consisting of various random numbers for performing a special chart lottery, etc., is obtained based on this winning. Then, this judgment information is temporarily stored in the special chart reservation memory unit 105 as a special chart reservation. In the following, the judgment information obtained by the game ball winning the first start hole 11 is referred to as "special chart 1 related judgment information", and the judgment information obtained by the game ball winning the second start hole 12 is referred to as "special chart 2 related judgment information". In addition, the special chart 1 related judgment information and the special chart 2 related judgment information are collectively referred to as "special chart related judgment information".

Then, the special drawing 1 related judgment information is stored as special drawing 1 reserved in the special drawing 1 reserved memory section 105a in the special drawing reserved memory section 105. On the other hand, the special drawing 2 related judgment information is stored as special drawing 2 reserved in the special drawing 2 reserved memory section 105b in the special drawing reserved memory section 105. The number of special drawing 1 related judgment information that can be stored in the special drawing 1 reserved memory section 105a, i.e., the upper limit value of the special drawing 1 reserved number, is set to "4". Also, the number of special drawing 2 related judgment information that can be stored in the special drawing 2 reserved memory section 105b, i.e., the upper limit value of the special drawing 2 reserved number, is set to "4".

In addition, various sensors and solenoids are connected to the game control board 100 via a specified relay board (not shown). Therefore, signals output by the various sensors are input to the game control board 100. In addition, the game control board 100 outputs signals to various actuators.

The various sensors connected to the game control board 100 include a general prize opening sensor 10a, a first start opening sensor 11a, a second start opening sensor 12a, a gate sensor 13a, and a special prize opening sensor 14a.

The general prize opening sensor 10a detects game balls that have entered the general prize opening 10. The first start opening sensor 11a detects game balls that have entered the first start opening 11. The second start opening sensor 12a detects game balls that have entered the second start opening 12. The gate sensor 13a detects game balls that have passed through the gate 13. The special prize opening sensor 14a detects game balls that have entered the special prize opening 14.

The various actuators connected to the game control board 100 include an electric chute solenoid 12s and an AT solenoid 14s. The electric chute solenoid 12s drives the electric chute opening and closing member 12k of the electric chute 12D. The AT solenoid 14s drives the AT opening and closing member 14k of the big prize device 14D.

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

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

The game control board 100 also transmits various commands to the payout control board 170, and receives signals from the payout control board 170 to monitor payouts. The payout control board 170 is connected to a card unit CU and a payout device 73, as well as a launching device 72. The card unit CU is installed adjacent to the pachinko game machine PY, and is a device that enables ball lending based on information such as an inserted prepaid card.

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

The launching device 72 is a device that launches game balls. The handle 72k constitutes an operation section or input section that accepts operations to cause the launching device 72 to launch game balls, and is included in the launching device 72. The handle 72k is provided with a touch switch 72a that can detect contact with the handle 72k by a person such as a player. When the player operates the handle 72k, the touch switch 72a detects the player's contact with the handle 72k, and outputs a detection signal to the payout control board 170 via the launch control circuit 175.

Furthermore, a firing volume knob 72b capable of detecting the rotation angle (amount of operation) of the handle 72k is connected to the handle 72k. The firing device 72 drives the firing motor 72m so that the game ball is fired with a strength corresponding to the rotation angle of the handle 72k detected by the firing volume knob 72b. Note that in the pachinko game machine PY, when the rotation operation of the handle 72k is maintained, one game ball is fired approximately every 0.6 seconds.

The game control board 100 also transmits various commands containing information about the game to the presentation control board 120 according to the progress of the game. The presentation control board 120 can grasp the progress of the game (the control content of the game) by the game control board 100 based on the various commands sent from the game control board 100.

The connection between the game control board 100 and the presentation control board 120 is a one-way communication connection that only allows signals to be sent from the game control board 100 to the presentation control board 120. In other words, a unidirectional circuit (not shown, for example, a circuit using a diode) is interposed between the game control board 100 and the presentation control board 120 as a means for restricting the direction of communication.

As shown in FIG. 7, the performance control board 120 is equipped with a performance control one-chip microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as "performance control microcomputer") 121 that controls the performance of the pachinko game machine PY according to a program. The performance control board 120, together with the image control board 140, the sound control circuit 161, and the sub-drive board 162 described below, can be positioned as a performance control unit that controls the performance. However, it is sufficient for the performance control unit to have at least the performance control board 120 and be able to control game performances, customer waiting performances, and operation promotion performances using the performance devices (image display device 50, speaker 52, frame lamp 53, and board movable body 55k, etc.).

The effects that are controlled by the effect control board 120 include game effects (special chart change effects, hold effects, big win game effects, etc.), customer waiting effects, and operation promotion effects that encourage operation during the period when operation of the first effect button 40k or the second effect button 41k is valid (operation valid period).

The presentation control microcomputer 121 includes a presentation ROM 123 that stores programs for controlling presentations as the game progresses using the game control board 100, a presentation RAM 124 that is used as a work memory, and a presentation CPU 122 that executes the programs stored in the presentation ROM 123.

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

The performance RAM 124 includes a start winning command pending memory unit 125 that stores the start winning command described below, a pattern designation command memory unit 126 that stores the pattern designation command described below, and a special pattern change start command memory unit 127 that stores the special pattern change start command described below.

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

The image control board 140 includes an image ROM 142 that stores programs for image control, an image RAM 143 that is used as a work memory, and an image CPU 141 that executes the programs stored in the image ROM 142. The image control board 140 also includes a CGROM (Character Generator Read Only Memory) 145 that stores image data to be displayed on the image display device 50, a VRAM (Video Random Access Memory) 146 that is used for expanding the image data stored in the CGROM 145, and a VDP (Video Display Processor) 144. All or part of these electronic components may be configured on a single chip.

CGROM 145 stores, for example, image data (still image data and video data, specifically image data of characters, items, designs, figures, letters, numbers, symbols, etc. (including performance designs), background images, etc.) for displaying images to be displayed on image display device 50.

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

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

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

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

In addition, various sensors that serve as input units and various actuators that serve as drive sources are connected to the performance control board 120 via a specified relay board (not shown). Signals output by the various sensors are input to the performance control board 120. In addition, the performance control board 120 outputs signals to the various actuators.

The various switches connected to the performance control board 120 include a first performance button sensor 40a and a second performance button sensor 41a. The first performance button sensor 40a detects that the first performance button 40k has been pressed. The second performance button sensor 41a detects that the second performance button 41k has been pressed. When the first performance button sensor 40a and the second performance button sensor 41a detect that they have been operated, they output a signal to the performance control board 120 according to the detection content.

The type and number of switches connected to the performance control board 120 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay. Also, the type and number of actuators connected to the performance control board 120 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

The various actuators connected to the performance control board 120 include a motor 55m1 for rotating the movable board body, and a motor 55m2 for lifting and lowering the movable board body. The motor 55m1 for rotating the movable board body drives the rotating member 55k1, and is capable of rotating the rotating member 55k1. The motor 55m2 for lifting and lowering the movable board body is capable of lifting and lowering the lifting member 55k2. In detail, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates operation pattern data that determines the operating modes of the rotating member 55k1 and the lifting member 55k2, and controls the operation of the rotating member 55k1 and the lifting member 55k2 via the sub-drive board 162.

In the following, the operations of the "rotating member 55k1 and the lifting member 55k2" may be collectively referred to as the "operation of the movable plate body 55k." Rotating the rotating member 55k1 and lowering or raising the lifting member 55k2 may also be referred to as "rotating, lowering or raising the movable plate body 55k."

The performance control microcomputer 121 also controls the lighting of the frame lamps 53 and the like via the sub-drive board 162 based on commands received from the game control board 100. In detail, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates light pattern data (data that determines the on/off state, light color, etc., also called lamp data) that determines the light emission mode of the frame lamps 53, and controls the light emission of the frame lamps 53 according to the light pattern data. Note that data stored in the performance ROM 123 of the performance control board 120 is used to create the light pattern data.

The sub-drive board 162 may be constructed as a board and have a CPU mounted on it. In this case, the CPU may be made to control the lighting of the frame lamps 53 and the like, and to control the operation of the movable board body 55k. Furthermore, in this case, a ROM may be mounted on the board, and data relating to the light emission patterns and operation patterns may be stored in the ROM.

3. Main Games Played by the Gaming Machine Next, main games played by the pachinko gaming machine PY will be described with reference to FIGS.

3-1. Games related to normal figures First, games related to normal figures will be explained. When the launched game ball passes through the gate 13, the pachinko game machine PY can execute a normal figure lottery. When the normal figure lottery is executed, the normal figure display 82 performs a variable display of the normal figure (a variable display followed by a stationary display). Here, the stationary display of the normal figure includes a winning figure and a losing figure. The losing figure of the normal figure is also called a "losing normal figure" to distinguish it from the losing figure of the special figure described later.

When a winning symbol is displayed, an auxiliary game is executed and the game related to passing through the gate 13 is ended. On the other hand, when a losing regular symbol is displayed, an auxiliary game is not executed and the game related to passing through the gate 13 is ended. In the following, when the game ball passes through the gate 13 when the regular symbol is not being displayed or an auxiliary game is not being executed, it is referred to as "the regular symbol variation start condition being met."

The pachinko gaming machine PY can carry out a series of games such as variable display of normal symbols and auxiliary games based on the normal symbol variation start condition being met, acquiring normal symbol related judgment information, and conducting a normal symbol lottery. The acquired normal symbol related judgment information includes a normal symbol random number, as shown in FIG. 8 (A). The normal symbol random number is a random number (judgment information) for making a win judgment. An appropriate range is set for each random number.

3-1-1. Hit Determination Hit determination is a determination for determining whether or not a hit has occurred (whether or not an auxiliary game is executed) using a hit determination table such as that shown in FIG. 9(A), for example. The hit determination table can be associated with a game state, which will be described later. When associated with a game state, the hit determination table includes a hit determination table used in a non-time-saving state (non-time-saving hit determination table) and a hit determination table used in a time-saving state (time-saving hit determination table).

In each hit determination table, the normal symbol random number determination value (normal symbol random number determination value) is appropriately allocated to the hit and miss results of the hit determination. Therefore, the pachinko game machine PY compares the acquired normal symbol random number with the hit determination table to determine whether it is a hit or a miss. If the hit determination result is a hit, a winning symbol is displayed as a static display on the variable display of the normal symbol. On the other hand, if the hit determination result is a miss, a missing normal symbol is displayed as a static display on the variable display of the normal symbol. The probability of winning a hit can be changed as appropriate.

3-1-2. Normal map fluctuation pattern determination/normal map variable display Normal map fluctuation pattern determination is a judgment to determine the normal map fluctuation pattern using a normal map fluctuation pattern determination table such as that shown in Figure 9 (B). The normal map fluctuation pattern is identification information regarding predetermined items related to the variable display of the normal map, such as the normal map fluctuation time.

The normal map fluctuation pattern determination table can be associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). When associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state), the normal map fluctuation pattern determination table includes a normal map fluctuation pattern determination table used in the non-time-saving state (non-time-saving normal map fluctuation pattern determination table) and a normal map fluctuation pattern determination table used in the time-saving state (time-saving normal map fluctuation pattern determination table).

Each normal map fluctuation pattern determination table stores one normal map fluctuation pattern, which is the result of the normal map fluctuation pattern determination, for each normal map that is stopped. In other words, the pachinko game machine PY can make the normal map fluctuation time different between the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state. For example, in the non-time-saving state, for the variable display of the normal map when a losing normal map (losing normal map) is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern with a normal map fluctuation time of 30 seconds is determined, and for the variable display of the normal map when a winning pattern is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern with a normal map fluctuation time of 30 seconds is determined. Also, in the time-saving state, for the variable display of the normal map when a losing normal map is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern with a normal map fluctuation time of 5 seconds is determined, and for the variable display of the normal map when a winning pattern is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern with a normal map fluctuation time of 5 seconds is determined. Note that these normal map fluctuation times can be changed as appropriate.

Then, the variable display of the normal map for the normal map fluctuation time corresponding to the normal map fluctuation pattern determined by the normal map fluctuation pattern determination is performed on the normal map display 82. In this way, a hit determination and a normal map fluctuation pattern determination are performed, and thus the variable display of the normal map is performed on the normal map display 82.

3-1-3. Auxiliary Game Auxiliary game is executed when a winning symbol is displayed (derived) as a display result (result of a lottery) in the variable display of the normal symbol. In the auxiliary game, the electric chute 12D opens.

The elements that make up the auxiliary game (auxiliary game components) include various elements such as the number of times the electric chute 12D opens and the opening time for each opening. The pachinko game machine PY controls the auxiliary game using an auxiliary game control table. The auxiliary game control table stores the auxiliary game components. For example, as shown in FIG. 9(C), it is possible to associate the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state) with the auxiliary game control table. In other words, it is possible to associate the auxiliary game components with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). Note that the specific content of each element, such as the number of times it opens and the opening time, can be changed as appropriate.

The pachinko game machine PY can set different opening times for the electric chute 12D for auxiliary play in the non-time-saving state and auxiliary play in the time-saving state. For example, in auxiliary play in the non-time-saving state, the electric chute 12D opens for a first opening time, such as 0.2 seconds, during which it is difficult to get a game ball to enter the electric chute 12D. On the other hand, in auxiliary play in the time-saving state, the electric chute 12D opens for a second opening time, which is longer than the first opening time, such as two openings of 2.5 seconds with a 1.0 second interval (closing) between them, during which it is easy to get a game ball to enter the electric chute 12D.

In the following, auxiliary games in a non-time-saving state are also referred to as "short-open auxiliary games." On the other hand, auxiliary games in a time-saving state are also referred to as "long-open auxiliary games." The opening time for each auxiliary game is the total time for that auxiliary game, and it may be configured to open multiple times during one auxiliary game, for example, by opening once, closing for an interval, and then opening again.

3-2. Games related to special figures Next, games related to special figures will be explained. When the launched game ball enters the first starting hole 11, the pachinko game machine PY can execute a special figure 1 lottery. When the special figure 1 lottery is executed, the special figure 1 display 81a performs a variable display of the special figure 1 (a variable display followed by a stationary display) to notify the result of the special figure 1 lottery. Here, the stationary display of the special figure 1 includes a jackpot pattern and a losing pattern. In other words, the results of the special figure 1 lottery include a jackpot and a losing pattern.

When a jackpot symbol is displayed, the jackpot game is executed, a new game state is set, and the game based on that winning is ended. Also, when a losing symbol is displayed, the jackpot game is not executed, and the game based on that winning is ended.

Similarly, the pachinko game machine PY can execute a special chart 2 lottery when a released game ball enters the second starting hole 12. When the special chart 2 lottery is executed, the special chart 2 display 81b performs a variable display of the special chart 2 (a variable display followed by a stationary display) to notify the result of the special chart 2 lottery. Here, the stationary display of the special chart 2 includes a jackpot symbol and a losing symbol. In other words, the results of the special chart 2 lottery include a jackpot and a losing symbol.

When a jackpot symbol is displayed, the jackpot game is executed, a new game state is set, and the game based on that winning is ended. Furthermore, when a losing symbol is displayed, the jackpot game is not executed, and the game based on that winning is ended.

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

When the start conditions are met, the pachinko game machine PY acquires special chart-related judgment information and performs a special chart lottery, and then performs a series of games such as variable display of special charts and jackpot games. In order to perform variable display of special charts, various judgments are made regarding the special chart-related judgment information. The acquired special chart-related judgment information includes special chart random numbers, jackpot chart type random numbers, reach random numbers, and special chart change pattern random numbers, as shown in FIG. 8 (B).

The special pattern random number is a random number (determination information) used to determine a jackpot. The jackpot pattern type random number is a random number (determination information) used to determine the type of jackpot pattern. The reach random number is a random number (determination information) used to determine a reach. The special pattern change pattern random number is a random number (determination information) used to determine the change pattern of the special pattern. An appropriate range is set for each random number. Next, we will explain each determination made using the special pattern related determination information.

3-2-1. Jackpot Determination Jackpot determination is to determine whether or not a jackpot has occurred (whether or not a jackpot game is executed), in other words, whether it is a jackpot or a miss, using a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table can be provided in association with a game state described later, for example, as shown in FIG. 10(A). Specifically, the jackpot determination table includes a jackpot determination table used in a normal probability state described later (hereinafter referred to as a "normal probability jackpot determination table"), and a jackpot determination table used in a high probability state described later (hereinafter referred to as a "high probability jackpot determination table").

In each jackpot determination table associated with a game state, a special symbol random number determination value (special symbol random number determination value) is assigned to the jackpot and miss results of the jackpot determination. The pachinko game machine PY checks the acquired special symbol random number against the jackpot determination table associated with the game state to determine whether it is a jackpot or a miss. As shown in FIG. 10(A), the high probability jackpot determination table has more special symbol random number determination values that are determined to be a jackpot than the normal probability jackpot determination table.

The method of allocating special pattern random number judgment values to the jackpot probability and the results of various jackpot judgments can be changed as appropriate.

3-2-2. Jackpot symbol type determination Jackpot symbol type determination is to determine the type of jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol type) using a jackpot symbol type determination table such as that shown in Fig. 10(B) when the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot. It is possible to associate the type of jackpot symbol with the content of the jackpot, in other words, the components of the jackpot (contents advantageous to the player) that are composed of the game benefits given to the player.

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

Multiple types of jackpot symbols can be set. In each jackpot symbol type determination table, a determination value of the jackpot symbol type random number (jackpot symbol type random number determination value) is assigned to the jackpot symbol type that is the result of the jackpot symbol type determination. Therefore, the pachinko game machine PY checks the acquired jackpot symbol type random number against the jackpot symbol type determination table to determine the type of jackpot symbol. Then, in the first jackpot symbol type determination table and the second jackpot symbol type determination table, the jackpot symbol type random number determination value is appropriately assigned to various jackpot symbols.

The types of the jackpot patterns of the special chart 1 and the special chart 2 can be set as appropriate, but for example, as shown in the jackpot pattern type determination table in FIG. 10(B), three types of jackpot patterns, jackpot pattern A, jackpot pattern B, and jackpot pattern C, can be set as the jackpot patterns of the special chart 1, and three types of jackpot patterns, jackpot pattern D, jackpot pattern E, and jackpot pattern F, can be set as the jackpot patterns of the special chart 2. And, as shown in the jackpot pattern type determination table in FIG. 10(B), in the first jackpot pattern type determination table and the second jackpot pattern type determination table, the jackpot pattern type random number determination value is appropriately allocated to various jackpot patterns. The allocation rate of the jackpot pattern type can be changed as appropriate. Also, the types of jackpot patterns can be increased or decreased as appropriate.

Reach judgment is, for example, when the result of the jackpot judgment is a miss, using a reach judgment table as shown in FIG. 10(C), to determine whether or not to generate a reach in the special chart variation performance described later.

The reach determination table can be associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). When associated with the game state, for example, the reach determination table includes a reach determination table used in the non-time-saving state (non-time-saving reach determination table) and a reach determination table used in the time-saving state (time-saving reach determination table).

In each reach judgment table, the reach random number judgment value (reach random number judgment value) is assigned to the reach judgment result of "reach (reach will occur)" or "not reach (reach will not occur)". Therefore, the pachinko gaming machine PY compares the acquired reach random number with the reach judgment table to determine whether or not there is a reach (whether or not a reach will occur).

As shown in FIG. 10(C), it is possible to make the number of reach random number judgment values that are judged as "reach in hand (reach occurs)" different between the non-time-saving reach judgment table and the time-saving reach judgment table. Note that in the following, the result of a reach judgment that is made on the premise that the result of the jackpot judgment is a "miss", which is "reach in hand (reach occurs)", is sometimes referred to as a "reach with miss", and "no reach (no reach occurs)" is sometimes referred to as a "no reach miss". Furthermore, a "no reach miss" is sometimes referred to as a "complete miss", and a "reach with miss" is sometimes referred to as a "reach miss".

3-2-4. Special pattern variation pattern determination The special pattern variation pattern determination is to determine the variation pattern (special pattern variation pattern) of the variable display of the special pattern, for example, by using a special pattern variation pattern determination table (special pattern variation pattern determination table) as shown in Figs. 11 to 12, whether the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot or a miss.

The special chart change pattern is identification information for identifying specific items such as the special chart change time, the so-called "length," and the presentation flow (presentation content) of the special chart change presentation described below. Note that the special chart change pattern can also include identification information regarding the results of the jackpot determination and the reach determination, in addition to the special chart change time and the presentation flow (presentation content) of the special chart change presentation. Note that the type and number of special chart change patterns can be changed as appropriate.

The special pattern variation pattern judgment table can be associated with the type of special pattern (special pattern 1/special pattern 2) that performs the variable display that is the subject of the judgment, in other words, the type of start port (first start port 11/second start port 12) from which the winning that is the result of the special pattern variation pattern judgment was made. That is, the special pattern variation pattern judgment table includes a special pattern variation pattern judgment table (special pattern 1 variation pattern judgment table: Figure 11) that is used when performing the variable display of special pattern 1, and a special pattern variation pattern judgment table (special pattern 2 variation pattern judgment table: Figure 12) that is used when performing the variable display of special pattern 2.

And each special chart fluctuation pattern judgment table can be associated with a game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). Specifically, the special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table includes a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the non-time-saving state (non-time-saving special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table) and a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the time-saving state (time-saving special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table). On the other hand, the special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table also includes a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the non-time-saving state (non-time-saving special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table) and a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the time-saving state (time-saving special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table).

In addition, each special chart fluctuation pattern determination table associated with a game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state) can also be associated with a jackpot determination result and a reach determination result. That is, the non-time-saving special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table and the time-saving special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table each have a jackpot, a reach and miss, and a no-reach miss. Similarly, the non-time-saving special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table and the time-saving special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table each have a jackpot, a reach and miss, and a no-reach miss.

Furthermore, the special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table for each no-reach miss associated with the game state can also be associated with the special chart 1 reserved number. For example, there is a special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table for no-reach miss used when the special chart 1 reserved number (U1) is 0 to 2, and a special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table for no-reach miss used when the special chart 1 reserved number (U1) is 3 to 4. Similarly, the special chart 2 variation pattern judgment table for each no-reach miss associated with the game state can also be associated with the special chart 2 reserved number. Specifically, there is a special chart 2 variation pattern judgment table for no-reach miss used when the special chart 2 reserved number (U2) is 0 to 2, and a special chart 2 variation pattern judgment table for no-reach miss used when the special chart 2 reserved number (U2) is 3 to 4.

Then, the special chart display 81 displays the special chart change for the special chart change time according to the special chart change pattern determined by each special chart change pattern judgment. After the special chart change display, if the jackpot pattern is displayed as a static display of the special chart change display result (the result of the special chart lottery), the next special chart change display is not performed immediately, and the jackpot game is played.

It is also possible to associate each special chart variation pattern with a special chart variation presentation flow as shown in the third column from the right in the table of Figures 11 and 12. Here, we will explain representative presentations that make up the presentation flow of the special chart variation presentation associated with the special chart variation pattern.

The effects that make up the performance flow of special chart change effects include normal changes, reaches, normal reaches (N reaches), long reaches (L reaches), special reaches (SP reaches), battle reaches, false reaches, and shortened changes.

Normal variation is when the statically displayed performance symbols start to change, and each of the performance symbols changes so quickly that it is difficult to recognize them one by one, suggesting that the variable display of the special symbol has begun. The special symbol change performance related to a no-reach miss change (the part from when the performance symbols start to change until they stop changing), and the part of the special symbol change performance in which a reach occurs until the reach is established (confirmed) may be composed of normal variation.

N reach is a performance in which, immediately after a reach is established (confirmed) through normal fluctuation, the performance symbols that make up the reach are temporarily stopped and maintained in that position for a specified time (for example, 10 seconds), while the remaining performance symbol decelerates and fluctuates at a slower speed than normal fluctuation. The expected probability of a big win suggested by an N reach is higher than normal fluctuation, but lower than an L reach and an SP reach, which will be described later. If the special chart fluctuation performance ends with an N reach, the remaining performance symbol that fluctuates at that slow speed stops. In the case of a miss, the remaining performance symbol stops at a performance symbol different from the performance symbols that make up the reach. If the special chart fluctuation performance does not end with an N reach, the remaining performance symbol fluctuates again at high speed, and the reach is maintained and the N reach develops (switches) from an L reach to an SP reach. Therefore, an N reach can also be positioned as a performance that determines whether the performance will develop or not.

The L reach can be executed both in the case of a jackpot and in the case of a miss, and is an effect that indicates whether or not a jackpot game state will be reached, and suggests that there is a possibility of a jackpot game state being reached. Furthermore, the L reach is an effect that can be executed after, for example, an N reach, and is executed for a longer period of time than an N reach, suggesting a higher expectation of a jackpot than an N reach. In the L reach, the reached reach that has been established is maintained, but the effect patterns that constitute the reach are reduced in size and moved to a predetermined position that does not interfere with the background image compared to the N reach (for example, the left effect pattern EZ1 described later is at the top left of the display unit 50a, and the right effect pattern EZ3 is at the top right of the display unit 50a), and the background image is switched to that dedicated to the L reach (an image dedicated to the L reach is displayed). In the L reach, an animation image using 2DCG is mainly displayed on the display unit 50a. As for the effect content of the L reach, an image of a scene different from the match related to the SP reach described later is displayed, such as the main character training to learn a special move.

The SP reach can be executed both when there is a jackpot and when there is a miss, and is an effect that indicates whether or not a jackpot game state will occur, and suggests that there is a possibility of a jackpot game state. Furthermore, the SP reach is an effect that can be executed after, for example, an N reach, and is executed for a longer period of time than an L reach, suggesting a higher probability of a jackpot than an L reach. In the SP reach, the established reach is maintained, but the effect patterns that constitute the reach are reduced and moved to a predetermined position that does not interfere with the background image compared to the N reach (for example, the left effect pattern EZ1 described later is at the top left of the display unit 50a, and the right effect pattern EZ3 is at the top right of the display unit 50a), and the background image is switched to a dedicated SP reach image (a video dedicated to the SP reach is displayed). In the SP reach, a 3DCG image is mainly displayed on the display unit 50a. The SP reach is produced by displaying a scene in which the team to which the main character belongs plays a match against the team to which the main character's rival belongs.

A battle reach is an effect that can be executed after a reach, for example in a time-saving state, and is an effect that suggests a higher chance of a jackpot than normal fluctuations. Even with a battle reach, the established reach is maintained, but the effect patterns that make up the reach are reduced in size and moved to a specified position (for example, the left effect pattern EZ1 is at the top left of the display unit 50a, and the right effect pattern EZ3 is at the top right of the display unit 50a), and the background image switches to one dedicated to the battle effect (a video dedicated to the battle effect is played). Also, during the battle effect, 3DCG images are mainly displayed on the display unit 50a.

Reach fake is a performance in which a reach teasing performance is performed immediately after a normal fluctuation to tease whether or not a reach will be established, and as a result of the reach teasing performance, the reach will not be established and the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed in a manner indicating a miss. In a reach teasing performance, for example, first, as a normal fluctuation, the left performance pattern EZ1, which has been fluctuating at high speed, is displayed as a temporary stop at approximately the center of the vertical direction of the display unit 50a, and then the right performance pattern EZ3, which is composed of the same performance pattern G10 as the left performance pattern EZ1, slows down and descends from above, and the state is whether or not it will be displayed as a temporary stop at approximately the center of the vertical direction of the display unit 50a. In other words, it is a state of whether or not a reach will be established. The behavior of the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 from the time when the left performance pattern EZ1 is displayed as a temporary stop until the state of whether or not a reach will be established constitutes the reach teasing performance. Finally, the right performance pattern EZ3 does not display a temporary stop in approximately the vertical center of the display unit 50a, but slides down and fades out from the display unit 50a, and the right performance pattern EZ3, consisting of a performance pattern G10 different from the left performance pattern EZ1, which is displayed as a temporary stop, displays a temporary stop in approximately the vertical center of the display unit 50a, and then the left performance pattern EZ1, which is displayed as a temporary stop, and the middle performance pattern EZ2, consisting of a performance pattern G10 different from the right performance pattern EZ3, are displayed as temporary stops, causing the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 to be displayed as temporary stops indicating a miss, and are then displayed as definite stops.

The display content of the shortened variation is basically the same as that of the normal variation, but the time required for the performance is shorter than that of the normal variation.

Note that the "reach is maintained" state for N reach, L reach, SP reach, and battle reach does not only include a state in which the performance symbols constituting the reach in the N reach, L reach, SP reach, and battle reach are visible on the display unit 50a, but also includes a state in which the performance symbols constituting the reach are difficult or impossible to see from the display unit 50a for a specified period of time in relation to a dedicated background image, for example. The performance contents of normal fluctuations, N reach, L reach, SP reach, and battle reach can be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, the performances that make up the special chart fluctuation performance are not limited to these, and can be added or removed as appropriate.

Also, as shown in the second column from the right in the tables of Figures 11 and 12, it is possible to give names to special chart variation patterns by associating them with the results of the jackpot determination and the content of the special chart variation presentation. Special chart variation patterns related to jackpots are sometimes collectively referred to as "jackpot variations," and special chart variation patterns related to losses are sometimes collectively referred to as "loss variations."

Furthermore, a special chart variation pattern in which an SP reach occurs regardless of the jackpot determination result is sometimes collectively referred to as an "SP reach variation," a special chart variation pattern in which an L reach occurs is sometimes collectively referred to as an "L reach variation," and a special chart variation pattern in which the special chart variation performance ends with an N reach is sometimes collectively referred to as an "N reach variation." Also, a miss variation with a reach is sometimes collectively referred to as a "miss variation with reach," and a miss variation without a reach is sometimes collectively referred to as a "normal miss variation."

3-2-5. Pre-reading judgment Before making a jackpot judgment, the pachinko game machine PY can make a pre-reading judgment using, for example, a pre-reading judgment table as shown in FIG. 13 to FIG. 14 based on the acquired special chart related judgment information. The pre-reading judgment table can be associated with the type of start port (first start port 11/second start port 12) related to the start winning, in other words, the type of special chart (special chart 1/special chart 2) that is variably displayed by the start winning. That is, the pre-reading judgment table includes a first pre-reading judgment table (FIG. 13) when the first start port 11 is won and the special chart 1 is variably displayed, and a second pre-reading judgment table (FIG. 14) when the second start port 12 is won and the special chart 2 is variably displayed. Note that the pre-reading judgment based on the first pre-reading judgment table is also called the "first pre-reading judgment", and the pre-reading judgment based on the second pre-reading judgment table is also called the "second pre-reading judgment".

The look-ahead judgment table can also be associated with the game states (normal game state/high probability high base game state/low probability high base game state) described below. That is, there are look-ahead judgment tables: a look-ahead judgment table used in the normal game state (look-ahead judgment table for normal game state), a look-ahead judgment table used in the high probability high base game state (look-ahead judgment table for high probability high base game state), and a look-ahead judgment table used in the low probability high base game state (look-ahead judgment table for low probability high base game state).

In other words, the look-ahead judgment tables include a first look-ahead judgment table used in a normal game state, a first look-ahead judgment table used in a high probability high base game state, a first look-ahead judgment table used in a low probability high base game state, a second look-ahead judgment table used in a normal game state, a second look-ahead judgment table used in a high probability high base game state, and a second look-ahead judgment table used in a low probability high base game state.

The special chart change pattern related to the variable display of the special chart that is performed in response to a winning entry into the starting hole 11, 12 is identified by the look-ahead judgment using the look-ahead judgment table shown in Figures 13 to 14. In other words, the special chart change pattern related to the variable display of the special chart is identified as the look-ahead judgment result before the variable display of the special chart based on the winning entry is performed. In the process of identifying the special chart change pattern, the hit or miss of a jackpot is also identified as the look-ahead judgment result.

The result of the look-ahead judgment, which includes information on the special symbol variation pattern, etc., is associated with the start winning command. As described below, the start winning command is transmitted to the performance control board 120 as a look-ahead judgment result when it is generated. Note that the type of information to be identified as the look-ahead judgment result can be changed as appropriate. For example, information on the type of jackpot symbol can also be included in the look-ahead judgment result.

As described above, the special chart display 81 performs variable display of the special chart by performing the jackpot determination, jackpot pattern type determination, reach determination, and special chart change pattern determination. Then, when the jackpot pattern is displayed as a stopped jackpot pattern as the display result (the result of the special chart lottery) in the variable display of the special chart, the next variable display of the special chart is not performed, and the jackpot game is executed next. Next, the jackpot game will be explained.

The jackpot game includes multiple rounds of play accompanied by the opening and closing of the jackpot opening 14, an opening (also referred to as OP) from the start of the jackpot game until the start of the first round of play, and an ending (also referred to as ED) from the end of the final round of play until the end of the jackpot game. Each round of play starts with the end of the opening or the end of the previous round of play, and ends with the start of the next round of play or the start of the ending.

It is possible not to provide an OP or ED. In the following, a predetermined number of rounds (predetermined order) will simply be referred to as a "round." For example, the first round will be referred to as "1st round (1R)," and the tenth round will be referred to as "10th round (10R)."

The pachinko game machine PY controls the jackpot game using a jackpot game control table. The jackpot game control table can be set for each type of jackpot symbol. In other words, it is possible to associate a jackpot game with a type of jackpot symbol. One type or multiple types of jackpot games can be set.

The jackpot game control table stores the elements that make up a jackpot game (jackpot game components). The jackpot game components include the number of rounds of play, the number of times the jackpot opening 14 is opened in each round of play, the type of jackpot opening and the opening time (opening pattern) for each opening, the time the opening is closed until the next opening (closing time), the opening time (opening time), and the ending time (ending time).

The pachinko game machine PY can control the jackpot game using a jackpot game control table such as that shown in FIG. 15(A). That is, it is possible to set the types of jackpot games and the jackpot game components for each jackpot game as shown in FIG. 15(A). Here, the jackpot games set in FIG. 15(A) will be described.

In the jackpot game associated with jackpot pattern A (hereinafter also referred to as the "first jackpot game"), 10 rounds of play are played. In each round of play from 1R to 10R, the jackpot opening 14 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds per round. In addition, there is an opening in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 10.0 seconds from the start of the first jackpot game until the start of the first round of play. In addition, there is an ending in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 15.0 seconds from the end of the last round of play until the end of the first jackpot game.

In the jackpot game associated with jackpot pattern B (hereinafter also referred to as the "second jackpot game"), five rounds of play are played. In each round of play from round 1 to round 5, the jackpot opening 14 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds per round. In addition, there is an opening in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 10.0 seconds from the start of the second jackpot game until the start of the first round of play. In addition, there is an ending in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 15.0 seconds from the end of the last round of play until the end of the second jackpot game.

In the jackpot game associated with jackpot pattern C (hereinafter also referred to as the "third jackpot game"), five rounds of play are played. In each round of play from round 1 to round 5, the jackpot opening 14 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds per round. In addition, there is an opening in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 10.0 seconds from the start of the third jackpot game until the start of the first round of play. In addition, there is an ending in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 15.0 seconds from the end of the final round of play until the end of the third jackpot game.

In the jackpot game associated with jackpot pattern D (hereinafter also referred to as the "fourth jackpot game"), ten rounds of play are played. In each round of play from round 1 to round 10, the jackpot opening 14 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds per round. In addition, there is an opening in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 10.0 seconds from the start of the fourth jackpot game until the start of the first round of play. In addition, there is an ending in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 15.0 seconds from the end of the final round of play until the end of the fourth jackpot game.

In the jackpot game associated with jackpot symbol E (hereinafter also referred to as the "5th jackpot game"), six rounds of play are played. In each round of play from 1R to 6R, the jackpot opening 14 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds per round. In addition, there is an opening in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 10.0 seconds from the start of the 5th jackpot game until the start of the first round of play. In addition, there is an ending in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 15.0 seconds from the end of the final round of play until the end of the 5th jackpot game.

In the jackpot game associated with jackpot symbol F (hereinafter also referred to as the "sixth jackpot game"), six rounds of play are played. In each round of play from 1R to 6R, the jackpot opening 14 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds per round. In addition, there is an opening in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 10.0 seconds from the start of the sixth jackpot game until the start of the first round of play. In addition, there is an ending in which the jackpot opening 14 is kept closed for 15.0 seconds from the end of the final round of play until the end of the fifth jackpot game.

In each round of play, when a predetermined number of game balls (e.g., 10 balls) are detected by the big prize opening sensor 14a, the big prize opening 14 is closed and the round of play ends, even before the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 14 has elapsed. In addition, the type and specific content of the big prize game components can be changed as appropriate.

In the jackpot game control table shown in FIG. 15(A), the type of jackpot game to be played is determined by the type of jackpot symbol, but the jackpot game may be played in a different way. For example, a device capable of allocating to two winning slots may be provided in the game area 6, and when one winning slot is won, only a jackpot game consisting of a predetermined number of rounds is played, while when the other winning slot is won, either a jackpot game consisting of more than the predetermined number of rounds or a jackpot game consisting of fewer than the predetermined number of rounds is played with a predetermined probability by lottery or the like.

3-4. Game states Next, the game states that the pachinko game machine PY can control will be described. The pachinko game machine PY has a jackpot game state in which a jackpot game is being played, and a non-jackpot game state in which a jackpot game is not being played. The non-jackpot game state includes a normal game state, which is a basic base game state, and a specific game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state. The elements that are "advantageous to the player" in the specific game state include the jackpot probability and the ease of opening the second start hole 12. In other words, the jackpot probability and the ease of opening the second start hole 12 can be associated with the specific game state.

When the probability of winning a jackpot is favorable to the player, this means that the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than in normal gameplay conditions, making it easier to win a jackpot. Also, when the ease of opening the second starting hole 12 is favorable to the player, this means that the ease of opening the second starting hole 12 is higher than in normal gameplay conditions, making the opening time of the second starting hole 12 longer per unit time.

The specific game states can be set to three types: a first specific game state in which both the probability of a jackpot and the opening time per unit time of the second start port 12 are advantageous to the player; a second specific game state in which only the probability of a jackpot is advantageous to the player; and a third specific game state in which only the opening time per unit time of the second start port 12 is advantageous to the player. Note that it is also possible to install only some of the three specific game states in the pachinko game machine PY, rather than installing all three of these specific game states.

Here, as a partial gaming state that focuses on the jackpot probability, a state in which the jackpot probability is higher than in the normal gaming state and is favorable to the player in terms of jackpot probability is called a "high probability state." In contrast, a state in which the jackpot probability is the normal probability in the normal gaming state and is not favorable to the player in terms of jackpot probability is called a "normal probability state."

In addition, as a partial game state focusing on the opening time of the second starting hole 12 per unit time, a state in which the opening time of the second starting hole 12 per unit time is longer than in the normal game state and the ease of opening the second starting hole 12 is advantageous to the player is called a "time-saving state." In contrast, a state in which the opening time of the second starting hole 12 per unit time is the opening time in the normal game state and the ease of opening the second starting hole 12 is not advantageous to the player is called a "non-time-saving state."

Here, we will explain in detail about the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state. As mentioned above, in the time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is open for a longer period of time per unit time compared to the non-time-saving state. In other words, in the time-saving state, it is easier to win at the second starting hole 12 than in the non-time-saving state. Here, we will explain a specific method for making it easier to win at the second starting hole 12 in the time-saving state than in the non-time-saving state.

For example, by making the time-saving state a state in which the normal map change time is more likely to be shorter than in the non-time-saving state, it is possible to make it easier to win at the second starting hole 12 in the time-saving state. For example, as mentioned above, regardless of the result of the hit determination, in the time-saving state, a normal map change time (5.0 seconds) shorter than the normal map change time (30.0 seconds) determined in the non-time-saving state is determined. As a result, the number of times the normal map lottery is executed per unit time is greater in the time-saving state. In this case, regardless of the difference between the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state, if the probability of winning in the hit determination and the opening time of the electric chute 12D in one auxiliary play are the same, the opening time of the electric chute 12D per unit time will be longer by the amount of the number of times the normal map lottery is executed per unit time.

In addition, by making the time that the electric chute 12D is open for a longer period of time in one auxiliary play in the time-saving state compared to the non-time-saving state, it is possible to make it easier to win in the second starting hole 12 in the time-saving state. For example, as mentioned above, in the non-time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is open for 0.2 seconds in one auxiliary play, whereas in the time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is open for a total of 5.0 seconds in one auxiliary play. In this case, regardless of the difference between the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state, if the probability of winning in the hit judgment and the normal chart fluctuation time are the same, the number of times auxiliary play is performed per unit time will be the same, so the opening time of the electric chute 12D per unit time will be longer by the amount that the opening time of the electric chute 12D in one auxiliary play is longer.

Furthermore, by making the time-saving state a state in which a hit is more likely to be determined in a hit judgment than in a non-time-saving state, it is possible to make it easier to win in the second starting hole 12 in the time-saving state. For example, as described above, in the non-time-saving state, the hit judgment has a probability of 6600/65536, whereas in the time-saving state, the hit judgment has a probability of 59936/65536. In this case, regardless of the difference between the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state, if the opening time of the electric chute 12D and the normal chart fluctuation time in one auxiliary play are the same, the probability of a hit being determined in the hit judgment is higher, so the number of hit judgments per unit time increases, and the opening time of the electric chute 12D per unit time becomes longer.

In this way, the three conditions that it is easier to win a jackpot in the time-saving state than in the non-time-saving state, the normal chart fluctuation time is likely to be shorter, and the open time of the electric chute 12D during one auxiliary play is likely to be longer are met, so in the time-saving state, the open time of the electric chute 12D per unit time is longer than in the non-time-saving state, making it easier to win a jackpot in the second starting hole 12. As a result, the so-called "base," which is the ratio of the number of winning balls to the number of balls fired, becomes higher. Therefore, in the time-saving state with a high base, it is possible to aim for a jackpot without significantly reducing the number of game balls in your possession compared to the normal play state. In other words, it can be said that the time-saving state is more advantageous for the player than the non-time-saving state.

In the time-saving state, it is also acceptable for only some of the three conditions for the second starting hole 12 to be open for a longer time per unit time to be met, rather than for all of them to be met. Ultimately, in the time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is open for a longer time per unit time compared to the non-time-saving state, so that it is easier to win at the second starting hole 12.

In addition, in the time-saving state, it is possible to make it easier to select a special chart change pattern with a shorter special chart change time than in the non-time-saving state, so that the number of times the special chart variable display is executed per unit time is reduced or the average special chart change time is lower. As a result, in the time-saving state, the pace at which special chart reservations are consumed is faster, making it easier for valid winnings at the starting gate (winnings that can be stored as special chart reservations) to occur. Therefore, it is possible to aim for a jackpot while playing smoothly.

In the following, the first specific gaming state will be referred to as the "high probability high base gaming state," the second specific gaming state as the "high probability low base gaming state," and the third specific gaming state as the "low probability high base gaming state," in relation to the advantageous nature of each specific gaming state for the player. Furthermore, the normal gaming state will be referred to as the "low probability low base gaming state."

Therefore, the low probability low base game state can be said to be a game state controlled by the normal probability state and the non-time-saving state. Similarly, the low probability high base game state can be said to be a game state controlled by the normal probability state and the time-saving state, the high probability low base game state can be said to be a game state controlled by the high probability state and the non-time-saving state, and the high probability high base game state can be said to be a game state controlled by the high probability state and the time-saving state.

In this way, the pachinko game machine PY can be controlled in a low probability low base game state, a low probability high base game state, a high probability low base game state, a high probability high base game state, and a jackpot game state. In the jackpot game state, the big prize opening 14 is open for a long period of time, and a large number of game balls can be obtained, so the jackpot game state can also be said to be an advantageous game state for the player. Therefore, the jackpot game state and the specific game state can also be said to be "advantageous game states" that are more advantageous to the player than the normal game state.

The high probability high base game state and the high probability low base game state are game states that are more advantageous to the player than the low probability low base game state in that the probability of a jackpot is higher than in the normal probability state. The high probability high base game state and the low probability high base game state are also game states that are more advantageous to the player than the low probability low base game state in that the ease of winning in the second start port 12 is higher than in the non-time-saving state. Furthermore, in the jackpot game state, the large winning port 14, which opens more winning balls per winning than the first start port 11 and the second start port 12, opens, so the jackpot game state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the low probability low base game state.

When the power supply of the pachinko game machine PY is turned on, the normal game state is set first. The jackpot game state is set when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed. On the other hand, the specific game state is set when a jackpot is won and a jackpot game is executed. Next, the setting of the specific game state will be explained.

3-5. Setting of a specific game state The pachinko game machine PY can set a new specific game state when a jackpot game ends. In other words, after a jackpot game, the game can be controlled and progressed in the specific game state. The duration of this specific game state can be set appropriately. For example, the specific game state can be continued until the next jackpot is won. In addition, the duration for which the specific game state can continue can also be limited.

When limiting the duration of a specific game state, the specific game state can be ended when an end condition for the duration is met. Then, when the specific game state ends, a normal game state can be set. Also, for a high-probability, high-base game state, when an end condition is met, a low-probability, high-base game state or a high-probability, low-base game state can be set. In this case, the newly set low-probability, high-base game state or high-probability, low-base game state may be continued until the next big win is won. Also, the same or different end condition may be set for the newly set low-probability, high-base game state or high-probability, low-base game state, and when the end condition is met, a normal game state may be set.

In addition, the termination conditions for the duration of the specific game state can be set appropriately. For example, the number of times the special chart variable display is executed can be set as the termination condition. Furthermore, the termination conditions are not limited to the number of times the special chart variable display is executed, but can also be the time elapsed after a jackpot game, the number of game balls released after a jackpot game, the number of times passing through gate 13 after a jackpot game, or the derivation of the result of a lottery to determine whether or not to terminate the specific game state (the so-called "fall lottery"). Furthermore, these elements may be set as termination conditions individually, or in combination.

These termination conditions may be set to the same for all specific game states that can be set after a jackpot game, or may be set for some of the specific game states that can be set. Furthermore, the termination conditions may be different for each specific game state.

Furthermore, the specific game state controlled after the jackpot game, the presence or absence of the end condition, and the contents of the end condition can be associated with the jackpot symbol type related to the jackpot game. For example, when the jackpot symbol type is set as described above, as shown in FIG. 15(B), the game may be controlled in a high probability high base game state after the end of the jackpot game related to the jackpot symbol A, the jackpot symbol B, and the jackpot symbol D. Here, the high probability high base game state can be continued until the jackpot is won without setting an end condition. Furthermore, the game may be controlled in a low probability high base game state after the end of the jackpot game related to the jackpot symbol C and the jackpot symbol E. Here, an end condition can be set for this low probability high base game state, and the end condition can be set to 100 times of variable display of special symbols. Note that the relationship between the jackpot type symbol and the specific game state controlled after the jackpot game, the presence or absence of the end condition, and the contents of the end condition is one example, and is not limited to this.

Also, focusing on the gaming profit of a jackpot, a jackpot in which the game progresses in a high probability state after the jackpot play is also called a "high probability jackpot." Furthermore, a jackpot in which the game progresses in a high probability state and time-saving state after the jackpot play is also called a "variable jackpot." In addition, a jackpot in which the game progresses in a normal probability state and time-saving state after the jackpot play is also called a "time-saving jackpot."

Next, the main effects performed by the pachinko gaming machine PY will be described with reference to Figures 16 to 32. Note that, for the purposes of presentation, the pachinko gaming machine PY is associated with a baseball story as a theme featuring a main character and an enemy character.

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

The customer waiting performance mode can be set when the special chart variable display is not performed in the "low probability low base game state", "low probability high base game state", "high probability low base game state" and "high probability high base game state", and is a performance mode that indicates a standby state in which the special chart variable display is not performed. When the customer waiting performance mode is set, the customer waiting performance is performed. In the customer waiting performance, for example, as shown in FIG. 16 (A), a customer waiting demo video G100 introducing the pachinko game machine PY is displayed on the display unit 50a. In addition, when the first performance button 40k is operated while the customer waiting demo video G100 is displayed, a setting screen G101 for setting the performance of the pachinko game machine PY is displayed as shown in FIG. 16 (B). The settings related to the performance include the volume setting of the sound output from the speaker 52, the brightness setting of the display unit 50a, and the frequency setting of the performance to be executed. The items of the settings related to the performance can be set appropriately. Additionally, the setting screen G101 can be prevented from being displayed by the player during the customer waiting demo video G100.

The normal presentation mode can be set in the "low probability low base game state" and is a presentation mode that indicates a normal game state. Furthermore, multiple lower-level presentation modes that belong to the normal presentation mode can be provided. For example, a first normal presentation mode, a second normal presentation mode, and a third normal presentation mode can be provided as lower-level presentation modes that belong to the normal presentation mode.

In the following, the lower hierarchical presentation modes belonging to the presentation modes are also referred to as "presentation stages". Accordingly, the first normal presentation mode is also referred to as the "first normal presentation stage", the second normal presentation mode is also referred to as the "second normal presentation stage", and the third normal presentation mode is also referred to as the "third normal presentation stage". In addition, unless there are special circumstances, the presentation mode that is set when the special chart variation display is first started after the power of the pachinko game machine PY is turned on is basically the first normal presentation stage (first normal presentation mode). However, the type of presentation mode that is set initially is not particularly limited and may be changed as appropriate.

When multiple presentation stages belonging to the normal presentation mode are provided in this way, the presentation stages can be switched in sequence repeatedly when a specific switching condition is met. The switching condition can be set as appropriate, but for example, the switching condition can be set to a specific number of special chart variable presentations being performed without winning a jackpot. Furthermore, the switching condition can also be set to a specific presentation being executed, such as a special chart variable presentation based on a SP reach miss fluctuation.

As will be described later, a reach may occur during the special chart change performance, but the special chart change performance can be divided into the entire section of the special chart change performance when a reach does not occur, the early part before the reach is established when a reach occurs, and the late part after the reach is established when a reach occurs. Note that the early part is composed of the "normal change" mentioned above.

In the first part of the first normal performance stage, the display unit 50a displays a background image (FIG. 17(A): first normal background image G111) that mainly shows the scenery of a city. In the first part of the second normal performance stage, the display unit 50a displays a background image (FIG. 17(B): second normal background image G112) that mainly shows the grounds of a baseball field. In the first part of the third normal performance stage, the display unit 50a displays a background image (FIG. 17(C): third normal background image G113) that mainly shows the inside of a restaurant. On the other hand, in the latter parts of the first to third normal performance stages, the first normal background image G111, the second normal background image G112, and the third normal background image G113 are not displayed, and a dedicated background image according to the type of reach in the normal performance mode is displayed.

The dedicated background image corresponding to the type of reach in the normal presentation mode may be a common background image for the normal presentation mode regardless of the type of presentation stage, or may be a different background image for each presentation stage.

Also, the normal presentation mode may be set in the "high probability low base game state", and the normal presentation mode may be a presentation mode that indicates a non-time-saving state. Alternatively, a predetermined presentation mode that is set only in the "high probability low base game state" and is different from the normal presentation mode may be provided. Furthermore, a predetermined presentation mode different from the normal presentation mode may be set in a low probability low base game state that occurs under certain conditions, and in a high probability low base game state.

The high probability high base game mode can be set in the "high probability high base game state" and is a game mode that indicates that the game is in a high probability high base game state. In the first part of the high probability game mode, for example, as shown in FIG. 17(D), a background image representing space (high probability game background image G120) is displayed on the display unit 50a, and high probability game background music is output from the speaker 52. In addition, in the second part of the high probability game mode, a dedicated background image corresponding to the type of reach in the high probability game mode is displayed.

The time-saving presentation mode can be set in the "low probability high base game state" or the "high probability high base game state", and is a presentation mode that indicates that the game is in either the low probability high base game state or the high probability high base game state, and is at least in the time-saving state. In the first part of the time-saving presentation mode, for example, as shown in FIG. 17(E), a background image showing the sky (time-saving background image G130) is displayed on the display unit 50a, and time-saving background music is output from the speaker 52. In addition, in the second part of the time-saving presentation mode, a dedicated background image according to the type of reach in the time-saving presentation mode is displayed.

The time-saving presentation mode can be set only in a low-probability, high-base game state, and can also be set as a presentation mode that indicates that the game is in a low-probability, high-base game state.

Furthermore, for either or both of the probability variation presentation mode and the time-saving presentation mode, multiple presentation stages for that presentation mode may be provided, similar to the normal presentation mode, and the presentation stage may be switched when a predetermined switching condition is met.

The jackpot presentation mode is a presentation mode that can be set when a jackpot game is being played in the "jackpot game state", and is a presentation mode that indicates that a jackpot game is being played. In the jackpot presentation mode, for example, during the opening of a jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 18(A), a jackpot opening presentation is performed in which an opening image G1 suggesting the start of a jackpot game and a right-hit image G2 encouraging a "right hit" are displayed on the display unit 50a. In addition, during the opening, a background image (opening background image G200) according to the type of jackpot game is displayed on the display unit 50a in the background of the opening image G1 and right-hit image G2 as a jackpot opening presentation.

In the jackpot presentation mode, during a round of play in a jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 18(B), the right-hit image G2 is displayed continuously from the opening on the display unit 50a, and a round image G3 indicating the number of rounds and a prize ball number image G4 indicating the number of prize balls paid out are displayed on the display unit 50a. In addition, during a round of play, a background image (round background image G201) corresponding to the type of jackpot game is displayed on the display unit 50a as a background of the right-hit image G2, round image G3, and prize ball number image G4, and background music corresponding to the type of jackpot game is output from the speaker 52.

Furthermore, during the ending of a jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 18(C), a jackpot ending presentation is performed on the display unit 50a, in which an ending image G5 suggesting the presentation mode that will be set after the jackpot game and a total number of winning balls image G6 suggesting the total number of winning balls paid out are displayed. In addition, during the ending, a background image (ending background image G202) according to the type of jackpot game is displayed on the display unit 50a as the background of the ending image G5 and the total number of winning balls image G6 as a jackpot ending presentation.

In the following, the jackpot opening effect, the round effect, and the jackpot ending effect are collectively referred to as the "jackpot game effect" as the effects executed in the jackpot game. In other words, the jackpot game effect is performed in the jackpot effect mode.

4-2. Special chart variation performance Next, the special chart variation performance will be described. When the variable display of the special chart is started, the pachinko game machine PY executes the special chart variation performance based on the special chart variation pattern related to the variable display of the special chart and the special chart lottery result (the big win determination result, the big win pattern type determination result, the reach determination result, and the special chart variation pattern determination result).

In the special chart change performance, the display unit 50a displays the change in the performance pattern superimposed on a specified background image. In the change display of the performance pattern, the performance pattern changes and then stops. In other words, after the special chart change time and the change display of the performance pattern are performed, the change stops and the performance pattern is displayed as stopped. And basically, the result of the special chart lottery is announced by the stopped display of the performance pattern.

In addition, in the special chart change performance performed on the display unit 50a, it is possible to use images other than the change display of the performance pattern. Furthermore, in addition to the image display device 50 including the display unit 50a, it is possible to perform the special chart change performance using various performance devices such as a speaker 52, a frame lamp 53, a board moving device 55, a first performance button device 40, and a second performance button device 41.

Next, we will explain the performance patterns displayed on the display unit 50a in the special chart variable performance executed in response to the special chart variable display. The performance patterns are also identification information for indicating the special chart lottery result, and multiple types of performance patterns are provided. In detail, one of the components of the performance pattern constitutes the identification information for indicating the special chart lottery result, and multiple types of performance patterns are provided depending on the difference in that identification information.

For example, as shown in FIG. 19(A), nine performance patterns can be provided, each consisting of the numbers 1 to 9. The performance pattern including the number "1" is designated as performance pattern G10a. Similarly, the performance patterns including the numbers "2" to "9" are designated as performance patterns G10b to G10i. For convenience, when individual performance patterns are treated without distinction, they are collectively referred to as "performance pattern G10". Performance pattern G10 may also be associated with a number and referred to as "～ pattern". The "～" portion is filled with a number. For example, performance pattern G10g including the number "7" is designated as "7 pattern".

In addition, the number parts of the performance patterns G10c and G10g relating to "3" and "7" are red, and the number parts of the performance patterns G10a, G10b, G10d, G10e, G10f, G10h, and G10i relating to "1", "2", "4", "5", "6", "8", and "9" are blue. That is, color is included in the components of the performance pattern G10. In the following, the performance patterns G10c and G10g whose number parts are red are sometimes referred to as "red patterns", and the performance patterns G10a, G10b, G10d, G10e, G10f, G10h, and G10i whose number parts are blue are sometimes referred to as "blue patterns". Note that the configuration of the performance pattern G10 and what is set as the identification information may be changed as appropriate. For example, other components such as characters associated with each number may be added to the performance pattern G10.

Next, the performance pattern display area for displaying the performance pattern G10 will be described. For example, as shown in FIG. 19(B), the display unit 50a can be divided horizontally into three approximately equal parts, with the left, center, and right parts being the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, and the right performance pattern area 50b3. The performance pattern G10 is displayed in each of the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, and the right performance pattern area 50b3.

And, mainly in the early part of the special chart change performance, the performance pattern G10 displayed in the left performance pattern area 50b1 is collectively referred to as "left performance pattern EZ1", the performance pattern G10 displayed in the middle performance pattern area 50b2 is collectively referred to as "middle performance pattern EZ2", and the performance pattern G10 displayed in the right performance pattern area 50b3 is collectively referred to as "right performance pattern EZ3". That is, the performance pattern G10 consisting of the numbers 1 to 9 is displayed in the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, and the right performance pattern area 50b3 in common, but when distinguishing the performance patterns G10 by their relative display positions, they are written as left performance pattern EZ1, middle performance pattern EZ2, and right performance pattern EZ3.

As will be described later, in the special chart variation performance, the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed in a variable manner, but ultimately, the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed in a manner that indicates the special chart lottery result (jackpot determination result, jackpot pattern type, reach determination result). When a jackpot is announced as the special chart lottery result, the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed in a stopped state so that three performance symbols G10 of the same number are lined up horizontally (so-called "double numbers"). Therefore, in the following, the performance symbols G10 consisting of the same numbers that constitute the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 that are displayed in a stopped state when announcing a jackpot are referred to as "jackpot performance symbols". For example, when the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed in a stopped state as "7-7-7", the jackpot performance symbol is "performance symbol G10g", and when they are displayed in a stopped state as "9-9-9", the jackpot performance symbol is "performance symbol G10i". Furthermore, the jackpot performance symbols may be abbreviated by the numbers included in the performance symbols. For example, if the jackpot performance symbol is "performance symbol G10g", the jackpot performance symbol will be "7", and if the jackpot performance symbol is "performance symbol G10i", the jackpot performance symbol will be "9". As described later, in the special chart variation performance, the special chart lottery result is completely shown when the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are definitely stopped and displayed. However, basically, in the middle of the special chart variation performance, before the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are definitely stopped and displayed, the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are provisionally stopped (provisionally stopped). This is because the contents of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 that were once provisionally stopped and displayed may change. For example, after the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are temporarily displayed in a manner indicating a certain jackpot (relatively unfavorable to the player), they may change to a manner indicating another jackpot (relatively favorable to the player). Therefore, when the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are temporarily displayed in a manner indicating a jackpot in this way for the first time (before being changed), the performance symbols G10 consisting of the same numbers that make up the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are also referred to as "jackpot performance symbols."

In addition, in the special chart change performance, the change display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 is performed, but in the middle of the change display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3, a reach may be performed in which the left performance symbol EZ1 and the right performance symbol EZ3 are temporarily stopped (provisionally stopped) at the performance symbol G10 of the same number. As described later, a reach is a performance that suggests the possibility of a jackpot game state, and the reaching increases the chance of a jackpot. Therefore, the performance symbol G10 consisting of the same number that constitutes the left performance symbol EZ1 and the right performance symbol EZ3 related to the reach is called a "reach performance symbol." For example, when the left performance symbol EZ1 and the right performance symbol EZ3 are temporarily stopped at the performance symbol G10a of "1", the reach performance symbol is "performance symbol G10a", and when they are temporarily stopped at the performance symbol G10a of "3", the reach performance symbol is "performance symbol G10c". Furthermore, the reach performance pattern may be abbreviated by the number included in the performance pattern. For example, if the reach performance pattern is "performance pattern G10a", the reach performance pattern is abbreviated to "1", and if the reach performance pattern is "performance pattern G10c", the reach performance pattern is abbreviated to "3".

As shown in FIG. 19(B), a small pattern area 50c for variably displaying small patterns can be provided in a section at the left end (lower left corner) of the lower end of the display section 50a. In the small pattern area 50c, the small patterns can be variably displayed according to the variable display of the special pattern. The design of the small patterns can be set as appropriate, and for example, the number portion of the performance pattern G10 can be directly reduced to form the small pattern.

In FIG. 19(B), the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, the right performance pattern area 50b3, and the small pattern area 50c are clearly indicated by dashed lines, but this is written to indicate the range of the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, the right performance pattern area 50b3, and the small pattern area 50c, and is not actually displayed.

As mentioned above, the effects that make up the presentation flow of the special chart change presentation include normal changes, N reaches, L reaches, SP reaches, and battle presentations. Some of these will be explained here.

4-2-1. Normal change In the special pattern change performance, the pachinko game machine PY can perform a normal change first. The normal change functions as a performance that suggests that the variable display of the special pattern has started. Next, the normal change will be explained in detail. In addition, as small patterns, the left small pattern KZ1, the middle small pattern KZ2, and the right small pattern KZ3 corresponding to the left performance pattern EZ1, the middle performance pattern EZ2, and the right performance pattern EZ3 are variably displayed in the small pattern area 50c.

For example, as shown in FIG. 20(A), on the display unit 50a, the left performance pattern EZ1, the middle performance pattern EZ2, and the right performance pattern EZ3 are displayed frozen, while the left small pattern KZ1, the medium and small pattern KZ2, and the right small pattern KZ3 are displayed frozen. The special pattern is not being displayed in a variable manner, and when the variable display of the special pattern is started from a state in which the variable display of the special pattern is waiting, the special pattern variable display starts with the start, as shown in FIG. 20(B). Specifically, the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 starts, and the variable display of the left small pattern KZ1, the medium and small pattern KZ2, and the right small pattern KZ3 starts.

The display mode of the change display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 and the display mode of the change display of the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 can be made different. For example, the change display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 can be made by scrolling each of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 from the top to the bottom of the display unit 50a, and the change display of the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 can be made by switching each of the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 one after another in a fixed position. Note that the display mode of the change display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 and the display mode of the change display of the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 can be made the same.

Also, the performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 and small symbols KZ1-KZ3 are displayed changing at high speed immediately after the change display starts. While the performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 and small symbols KZ1-KZ3 are displayed changing at high speed, they are basically displayed with transparency that allows the background images such as background images G111-G115 to be easily seen. The display mode of the change display of the performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 that constitute the normal change is sometimes called the "normal change mode". The normal change mode may also include the performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 not being displayed. In other words, the absence of display of the performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 may be considered as a situation in which the performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 are changing so quickly that the changing performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 cannot be seen.

If the special chart change pattern of the special chart variable display is a special chart change pattern with no reach and no miss (for example, normal miss change), no reach will occur, and as the special chart variable display ends (special chart stop display), the stop display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 and small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 will be performed with a miss number (so-called "barake number") that is specific to a no-reach miss.

For example, as the display of the stop symbols EZ1 to EZ3 progresses, first, as shown in Figure 20(C), the left symbol EZ1 temporarily stops (provisionally stops) in approximately the center position in the vertical direction, then, as shown in Figure 20(D), the right symbol EZ3 temporarily stops (provisionally stops) in approximately the center position in the vertical direction, and then, as shown in Figure 20(E), the middle symbol EZ2 temporarily stops (provisionally stops) in approximately the center position in the vertical direction.

And finally, the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3, which are temporarily stopped (provisionally stopped) in a horizontal line approximately in the center vertically, all come to a complete stop as shown in Figure 20 (F), and their stopping is confirmed (the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed as stopped). When the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3, which were temporarily stopped (provisionally stopped), come to a complete stop with a sparse pattern, that is, when the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed as definitely stopped, the three small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 come to a complete stop with the same sparse pattern as the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3, and the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 are also displayed as stopped.

Note that when the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are temporarily stopped, it means that the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 do not move significantly like a scrolling display, but rather sway slightly or move back and forth slightly in place. Therefore, strictly speaking, the state in which the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are temporarily stopped is different from the state in which the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are definitely stopped, but these temporary and definite stopped displays are sometimes referred to as "stopped displays" in a broad sense. Also, in the example of Figure 20, when the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are stopped, the performance symbols stop in the order of left performance symbol EZ1 → right performance symbol EZ3 → center performance symbol EZ2, but the stopping order (method) is not limited to this and can be set as appropriate.

4-2-2. Reach Next, the establishment of a reach will be explained. Even if the special chart variable display pattern of the special chart is a reach-miss special chart variable pattern (for example, N miss variation), basically, in the same way as the above-mentioned case of no reach, in the display unit 50a, as shown in FIG. 21 (A), the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 are definitely displayed as stopped, and the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 are displayed as stopped, and the variable display of the special chart starts, and as shown in FIG. 21 (B), the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 starts, and the variable display of the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 starts.

After that, after a predetermined time has elapsed, as shown in FIG. 21(C), the left performance pattern EZ1 for the number "5" stops provisionally (temporarily stopped) in approximately the vertical center position, and then, as shown in FIG. 21(D), the right performance pattern EZ3 for the same number "5" stops provisionally (temporarily stopped) in a horizontal line in approximately the vertical center position, and a reach is established. When a reach is established, an image (reach establishment suggestion image) G11 is displayed indicating that a reach has been established. Note that even if a reach is established with the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3, the variable display of the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 continues.

In addition, in the example of Figure 21, when a reach is achieved, the performance symbols temporarily stop (provisionally stop) in the order of left performance symbol EZ1 → right performance symbol EZ3, but the order (method) of the temporary stops is not limited to this and can be set as appropriate. In addition, the number of the performance symbols that make up the reach is not limited to "5". In addition, the position where they temporarily stop (provisionally stop) is not limited to approximately the center position in the vertical direction. In addition, the direction in which the performance symbols that make up the reach are lined up is not limited to the horizontal direction and may be other directions such as diagonal.

In this way, the entire period of the special chart change performance in the case of a miss without a reach, and the section from the start of the special chart change performance to the time the reach is established in the case of a reach, can be considered as normal change. However, the time until the reach is established can be set appropriately based on the special chart change pattern, etc. Furthermore, it is also possible to execute various preview performances such as so-called "pseudo consecutive wins," cut-in previews, and dialogue previews before the reach is established. Alternatively, it is also possible to enter a so-called "zone" before the reach is established.

4-2-3. N Reach When a reach is established after a normal variation, the pachinko game machine PY can perform an N reach. The N reach is a performance that suggests that the result of the special drawing may be a "jackpot" and functions as a performance to make the player expect a jackpot. Next, the N reach will be specifically explained.

When a reach is achieved, an N reach is performed from that point, as shown in, for example, FIG. 21(D). In an N reach, the state when the reach is achieved is maintained for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds), as shown in FIG. 22(A). When an N reach begins, the medium performance pattern EZ2, which is changing (scrolling) at high speed in the normal mode, gradually slows down, as shown in FIG. 22(B).

When the special pattern change pattern of the variable display of the special pattern is a special pattern change pattern with a reach and a miss (for example, an N miss change), the center performance pattern EZ2 is temporarily stopped (provisionally stopped) at approximately the center position in the vertical direction from the state where the reach is established, and a stop display of the performance pattern indicating a miss is performed. At this time, since the reach is established, the center performance pattern EZ2 consisting of a number different from the numbers that constitute the reach ("4" in FIG. 22 (C-1)) is temporarily stopped as shown in FIG. 22 (C-1). Then, with the end of the variable display of the special pattern (stop display of the special pattern), the provisional stop state becomes a completely stopped state as shown in FIG. 22 (D-1), and the stop display of the left performance pattern EZ1, the center performance pattern EZ2, and the right performance pattern EZ3 is performed with a miss number specific to the reach and miss.

In addition, when the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3, which have been temporarily stopped (provisionally stopped), come to a complete stop with a miss that is specific to a reach-with-miss, in other words, when the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed as having stopped, the three small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 all stop with the same miss that is specific to a reach-with-miss as the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3, and the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 are also displayed as having stopped. Note that the content of the N reach can be changed or added as appropriate.

If the special chart change performance does not end with the N reach, as shown in Figure 22 (C-2), when the remaining middle performance pattern EZ2 that has not stopped changes again at high speed, the entire display section 50a will gradually turn white, and after whitening out, it may develop (switch) to an L reach or SP reach, as shown in Figure 22 (D-2).

4-2-4. L Reach The pachinko game machine PY can perform an L reach after an N reach. The L reach is a performance that suggests that the result of the special drawing is more likely to be a "jackpot" than the N reach, and functions as a performance to make the player expect a jackpot. The established reach is maintained even in the L reach, but for example, as shown in FIG. 23(A), at the start of the L reach, the performance patterns EZ1 and EZ3 that constitute the reach are reduced and moved to a predetermined position that does not overlap with the small pattern area 50c in the display unit 50a (for example, the left performance pattern EZ1 is at the top left of the display unit 50a, and the right performance pattern EZ3 is at the top right of the display unit 50a).

At the start of an L reach, for example, as shown in FIG. 23(A), a background image dedicated to L reach (background image for L reach G114) is displayed on the display unit 50a. The background image for L reach G114 is composed of a video in which a specific story unfolds. The content of the story of the video related to the background image for L reach G114 can be set appropriately, but in a basic embodiment, it is composed of the main character confessing his love to a girl.

When the L reach background image G114 is displayed, it first starts with a scene in which the main character is waiting for a girl at a certain meeting place, as shown in Figure 23 (A). Then, as shown in Figure 23 (B), the girl appears at the meeting place. At this time, the middle performance pattern EZ2 appears in approximately the center of the display unit 50a, with the performance pattern of the number "5" that is part of the reach and the performance pattern of the number "4" that is not part of the reach, and slowly rotates from the back to the front and back again.

While the number "4" and number "5" performance symbols continue to rotate, the Suri related to the L reach background image G114 progresses. Then, as shown in FIG. 23(C), the scene where the main character confesses his love to the girl is reached. At this time, in the approximate center of the display unit 50a, the number "5" performance symbol constituting the reach and the number "4" performance symbol not constituting the reach collide with each other to knock the other away. Since the number "5" performance symbol constitutes the reach and the number "4" performance symbol does not constitute the reach, when the number "4" performance symbol is knocked away and the number "5" performance symbol remains, the stop display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 in a mode indicating a big win is established, whereas when the number "5" performance symbol is knocked away and the number "4" performance symbol remains, the stop display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 in a mode indicating a reach miss is established. Therefore, the scene in FIG. 23(C) is the final stage of the L reach, and constitutes a branching point (a so-called "win/lose branching point") where either a performance suggesting a jackpot (a jackpot suggestion performance) will be executed, or a performance suggesting a miss (a miss suggestion performance) will be executed.

When the special chart change pattern of the variable display of the special chart is a jackpot change (L jackpot change) at the winning/losing branching point, as shown in FIG. 24 (A-1), a close-up of a smiling girl is displayed on the display unit 50a, and then, as shown in FIG. 24 (B-1), the main character is displayed looking happy about his successful confession, and a predetermined sound effect is output from the speaker 52. At this time, the left performance pattern EZ1 and right performance pattern EZ3 of the number "5" that constitute the reach are displayed in a provisionally stopped state in the center of the display unit 50a, along with the number "5" center performance pattern EZ2 that constitutes the reach. In other words, the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed provisionally stopped in a state indicating a jackpot.

The display of the main character who is happy about his successful confession and the output of a specified sound effect constitute a jackpot suggestion performance. After the jackpot suggestion performance, as shown in FIG. 24 (C-1), the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 and the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 are displayed in a stopped state in a manner indicating a jackpot.

On the other hand, if the special chart change pattern of the variable display of the special chart is a reach miss change (L miss change) after the winning/losing branch point, no big win suggestion effect is performed, and instead, in the L reach background image G114, as shown in FIG. 24 (A-2), a close-up of a girl with a sad expression is displayed on the display unit 50a, and then, as shown in FIG. 24 (B-2), the main character is displayed looking disappointed after failing to confess his feelings. At this time, the left effect pattern EZ1 and right effect pattern EZ3 of the number "5" that constitute the reach are displayed in a provisionally stopped state in the center of the display unit 50a. In other words, the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed in a provisionally stopped state indicating a reach miss.

The display of the main character, who is disappointed after failing to confess, constitutes a miss suggestion effect. After the miss suggestion effect, as shown in Figure 24 (C-2), the stop display of the effect symbols EZ1 to EZ3 and the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 is performed with a miss for the reach.

4-2-5. SP Reach In addition, the pachinko game machine PY can perform an SP Reach after an N Reach. The SP Reach is a performance that suggests that the result of the special drawing is more likely to be a "jackpot" than the L Reach, and functions as a performance to make the player expect a jackpot. In addition, the established Reach is maintained even in the SP Reach, but for example, as shown in FIG. 25(A), at the start of the SP Reach, the performance patterns EZ1 and EZ3 that constitute the Reach are reduced and moved to a predetermined position that does not overlap with the small pattern area 50c in the display unit 50a (for example, the left performance pattern EZ1 is at the top left of the display unit 50a, and the right performance pattern EZ3 is at the top right of the display unit 50a).

At the start of an SP reach, for example, as shown in FIG. 25(A), a background image dedicated to the SP reach (SP reach background image G115) is displayed on the display unit 50a. The SP reach background image G115 is composed of a video in which a specific story unfolds. The content of the story of the video related to the SP reach background image G115 can be set appropriately, but in a basic embodiment, it is composed of a showdown between a main character and an enemy character who is the rival of the main character. The main character is a baseball pitcher, the enemy character is a baseball batter, and the two characters face off in the roles of pitcher and batter in a baseball game.

When the SP reach background image G115 is displayed, first, as shown in FIG. 25(A), an enemy character appears, and then, as shown in FIG. 25(B), an image indicating that the SP reach has started (SP reach start title image) G11 is displayed in the center of the display unit 50a. The SP reach start title image G11 is composed of a title image G11a indicating the title of the SP reach "In FIG. 25(B), 'Strike out the enemy batter XX!!'" and an effect image G11b that enhances the title image G11a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(C), a scene is displayed in which the main character and the enemy character face off against each other. After that, in the SP reach background image G115, as shown in FIG. 26(A), the main character throws the ball, as shown in FIG. 26(B), the ball moves toward the enemy character, as shown in FIG. 26(C), and the enemy character begins to swing the bat, as shown in FIG. 26(C). Next, as shown in FIG. 26(D), the ball and the bat approach each other, and a scene is reached in which the showdown between the main character and the enemy character is about to be concluded. This scene constitutes a branching point (win/lose branching point) where the main character wins the showdown between pitcher and batter, suggesting a big win, or loses, suggesting a miss.

After this winning/losing turning point, if the special chart change pattern of the variable display of the special chart is a jackpot change (SP jackpot change), as shown in FIG. 27 (A-1), the display unit 50a will display the main character striking out the enemy character and letting out a roar on the mound as shown in FIG. 27 (B-1), after which the main character will be shown striking out the enemy character and letting out a roar from the mound, and a predetermined sound effect will be output from the speaker 52. At this time, the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are temporarily displayed in a manner indicating a jackpot.

The display of the main character roaring in victory and the output of a specified sound effect constitute the big win indication effect. After the big win indication effect, as shown in FIG. 27 (C-1), the stop display of the effect symbols EZ1 to EZ3 and the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 is performed in a manner indicating a big win.

On the other hand, if the special chart change pattern of the variable display of the special chart is a reach miss change (SP miss change) after the winning/losing turning point, no big win suggestion effect is performed, and in the SP reach background image G115, as shown in FIG. 27 (A-2), the enemy character hits a home run and loses the showdown, and as shown in FIG. 27 (B-2), the main character appears dejected on the mound. At this time, the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 are temporarily displayed in a manner indicating a reach miss.

The display of the main character looking dejected after losing the match constitutes the miss indication effect. After the miss indication effect, as shown in Figure 27 (C-2), the stop display of the effect symbols EZ1 to EZ3 and the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 is performed with a miss for the reach.

Regardless of the detailed display mode of the reach, the display mode of the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 when at least the middle performance pattern EZ2 is displayed and the reach is formed by the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 is sometimes referred to as the "reach variable mode". Also, as shown in FIG. 21(D), the establishment of a reach, in other words, the display of the reach establishment suggestion image G11, constitutes a performance (reach establishment notification performance) that notifies that the display mode of the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 has become a reach variable mode. However, the content of the reach establishment notification performance is not limited to the display of the reach establishment suggestion image G11. For example, the reach establishment notification performance may be an operation in which the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 expand for a moment and return to their original state immediately after the tentative stop display of the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 is confirmed. Furthermore, as a reach-achievement notification effect, a specific sound effect may be output that is associated with the achievement of the reach, in other words, the display state of the varying display of the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 becoming a reach-achievement state.

Next, we will explain the movable body effects and operation effects that are performed in the special chart change effects. The movable body effects and operation effects may be performed as part of the aforementioned SP reach, L reach, and N reach, as well as jackpot game effects, by being incorporated into these effects, or they may be performed independently of these effects. First, we will explain the movable body effects.

The pachinko game machine PY can perform a moving body performance involving the movement of a moving body at a predetermined timing in a predetermined performance such as a special chart change performance or a big win game performance. The moving body performance is a performance using a moving device such as the board moving device 55, and functions as a performance that suggests the expectation of a big win or the development to a SP reach.

For example, when the movable body performance functions as a performance suggesting the development to SP Reach, as shown in FIG. 28(A), when the special chart change performance develops from N Reach to SP Reach, first, as shown in FIG. 28(B), the board movable device 55 is activated, and the board movable body 55k is lowered to the operating position when viewed from the front, and is held in that position for a predetermined time. Furthermore, at this time, an effect image G13 accompanying the operation of the board movable body 55k is also displayed on the entire display unit 50a. Then, as shown in FIG. 28(C), the effect image G13 is erased, the board movable body 55k is raised to the standby position, and the board movable device 55 returns to its normal standby state. When the board movable device 55 returns to its normal standby state, the performance develops to SP Reach. Note that the operation contents of the movable device in the movable body performance can be changed or added as appropriate.

4-4. Operation Presentation Next, the operation presentation will be explained. The pachinko game machine PY can perform operation presentations including operation promotion presentations and operation result presentations corresponding to the operation of the first presentation button 40k, the second presentation button 41k, etc., at a predetermined timing in a predetermined presentation such as a special chart change presentation or a big win game presentation. The operation promotion presentation is a presentation that encourages the player to operate the operation means, and the operation result presentation is a presentation that is performed according to the operation of the operation means in the operation promotion presentation, and each of them functions as a presentation that makes the player expect a big win.

For example, as described above, when a winning/losing branch point is reached in an L reach or SP reach, a period during which pressing the first effect button 40k is valid (valid operation period) occurs, and with the occurrence of this valid operation period, an effect is performed that encourages the operation of the first effect button 40k (operation promotion effect), as shown in FIG. 29 (A).

In the operation promotion performance, a first button operation promotion performance image G12 is displayed on the display unit 50a. The first button operation promotion performance image G12 includes an image (operation target image) G12a representing the first performance button 40k that is the operation target, an image (press operation image) G12b representing the operation mode (i.e., press operation) of the first performance button 40k, and an image (operation valid period remaining time image) G12c representing the remaining time of the operation valid period (operation valid period) related to the operation of the first performance button 40k.

The remaining valid operation period image G12c is made up of a roughly curved progress bar, and changes over time so that the player can easily understand the remaining time of the valid operation period. Figure 29(B) shows the state when the valid operation period has occurred and 1/3 of the valid operation period has passed.

When the special chart change pattern of the variable display of the special chart is a jackpot change (SP jackpot change), the operation result display is performed after the first performance button 40k is pressed during the effective operation period, or after the remaining time of the effective operation period runs out without the first performance button 40k being operated during the effective operation period.

As an operation result presentation, for example, as shown in FIG. 29(C), the board moving device 55 is activated, the board moving body 55k descends to the operating position and is held in that position for a predetermined time, while the rotating member 55k1 rotates for a predetermined time. In this way, the operation result presentation also includes a moving body presentation. Furthermore, at this time, as an operation result presentation, an effect image G13 accompanying the movement of the board moving body 55k is displayed across the entire display unit 50a. Then, as shown in FIG. 29(D), the effect image G13 is erased, the rotation of the rotating member 55k1 stops, and the board moving body 55k rises, ending the operation result presentation. When the operation result presentation ends, a jackpot suggestion presentation is performed.

On the other hand, if the special chart change pattern of the variable display of the special chart is a reach miss change (SP miss change), even if the first performance button 40k is pressed during the operation valid period, or even if the remaining time of the performance button operation valid period runs out without the first performance button 40k being pressed, the operation result performance is not performed, and a miss indication performance is performed.

The operation result presentation is not limited to the operation of the board moving device 55 or the display of the effect image G13, but can be changed or added as appropriate. Also, the operation presentation is not limited to the special chart change presentation, but can also be performed in the jackpot presentation.

4-5. Pre-reading performance Next, a pre-reading performance that can be executed before the special chart variable display that is the target of the special chart reservation is executed will be described. The pachinko game machine PY can perform a pre-reading performance for the special chart 1 reservation or the special chart 2 reservation for which a jackpot judgment has not been performed, based on the result of the pre-reading judgment, at any timing of the special chart variable performance. The pre-reading performance is a performance that suggests the jackpot expectation for the special chart 1 reservation or the special chart 2 reservation, and functions as a performance that makes the player expect a jackpot before the variable display of the special chart corresponding to that reservation. As an example of a pre-reading performance, there is a reservation change notice using a reservation performance that represents a special chart reservation. Here, a reservation performance and a reservation change notice performed in the normal performance mode will be described.

As shown in FIG. 30(A), the hold display is performed in a hold display area 50d formed in a horizontally long rectangular shape in a section approximately in the center of the bottom end of the display unit 50a. The hold display area 50d is composed of a first area 50d1, a second area 50d2, a third area 50d3, and a fourth area 50d4, which divide the hold display area 50d into four approximately equal areas in the left-right direction. In other words, the first area 50d1 to the fourth area 50d4 are arranged in order from the left end to the right end of the hold display area 50d.

The first area 50d1 displays a reserved icon representing the special chart 1 reservation that occurred first among the reserved special chart 1 reservations and that will be first to have the special chart 1 variable display performed based on the special chart 1 related random number corresponding to that special chart 1 reservation. Similarly, the second area 50d2 to the fourth area 50d4 display reserved icons representing the special chart 1 reservation that occurred second to fourth among the reserved special chart 1 reservations and that will be second to fourth to have the special chart 1 variable display performed based on the special chart 1 related random number corresponding to that special chart 1 reservation.

Note that, below, the special drawing 1 reservation corresponding to the reservation icon displayed in the first area 50d1 is referred to as "special drawing 1 reservation in reservation order 1." Similarly, the special drawing 1 reservations corresponding to the reservation icons displayed in the second area 50d2, the third area 50d3, and the fourth area 50d4 are referred to as "special drawing 1 reservation in reservation order 2," "special drawing 1 reservation in reservation order 3," and "special drawing 1 reservation in reservation order 4." In other words, the existing special drawing 1 reservations are referred to as "reservation order 1" to "reservation order 4" in the order in which they occurred.

In addition, the display area 50e is formed to the left of the reserved display area 50d. The icon representing the currently active special chart 1 change display is displayed in the display area 50e. Therefore, the object indicated by the icon displayed in the display area 50e is different from the object indicated by the reserved icon displayed in the reserved display area 50d, and strictly speaking is not included in the "reserved performance" corresponding to the reserved special chart 1. However, since there is a relationship between the display of the reserved icon and the display of the icon, hereinafter, the display of the reserved icon and the display of the icon are collectively referred to as the "reserved performance". Furthermore, the reserved icon and the icon are collectively referred to as the "icon". Furthermore, the currently active special chart 1 change display indicated by the icon is also referred to as the "change".

In FIG. 30(A), the pending display area 50d and the display area 50e are indicated by dashed lines, and the first area 50d1 to the fourth area 50d4 are indicated by dashed lines, but this is written to indicate the range of the pending display area 50d, the first area 50d1 to the fourth area 50d4, and the display area 50e, and is not actually displayed.

Next, a specific example of the reserved performance will be described. In the following description, the variable display of the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 will be omitted. As a premise, it is assumed that the special chart 1 variable display is in progress (special chart variable display is in progress) and the number of reserved special charts 1 (U1) is "2". Under this situation, as shown in FIG. 30 (B), a reserved icon HA2 representing the reserved special chart 1 (reserved special chart 1 reserved in reservation order 1) that occurred first among the currently reserved special charts 1, is displayed in the first area 50d1 (not shown), and a reserved icon HA3 representing the reserved special chart 1 (reserved special chart 1 reserved in reservation order 2) that occurred next to the reserved special chart 1 represented by the reserved icon HA2 is displayed in the second area 50d2 (not shown). In addition, the icon HA1 representing the currently running special chart 1 variable display is displayed in the display area 50e (not shown). The display mode of the icons HA1 to HA3 displayed in FIG. 30 (B) is the normal mode.

In this way, in the reserved performance, the reserved special symbols are displayed in the order in which they were reserved, from the left end to the right end of the reserved display area 50d. In other words, the variable display of the reserved special symbols, in other words, the variable display of the unexecuted special symbols based on the special symbol-related judgment information stored in the special symbol reserved memory unit 105, is displayed individually as a reserved icon.

Then, as shown in FIG. 30(C), when the stop display of the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 is performed, the icon HA1, which represented the special pattern variable display that was in progress immediately before that, is erased. Next, when the variable display of the special pattern (special pattern variable effect) is started based on the special pattern 1 reservation that represents the reservation icon HA2, the reservation icon HA2 and the reservation icon HA3 shift. Specifically, the reservation icon HA2 that was displayed in the first area 50d1 (not shown) moves to the corresponding display area 50e (not shown), and the reservation icon HA3 that was displayed in the second area 50d2 (not shown) moves to the first area 50d1 (not shown). In other words, the reservation icon HA2 and the reservation icon HA3 that were displayed shift one to the left each. This is because the variable display of the special pattern corresponding to the reserved icon HA2 has begun, and the special pattern 1 reserved represented by the reserved icon HA3 has become the special pattern 1 reserved that occurred first among the currently reserved special pattern 1 reserves, and has become the next special pattern variable display to be started, so that the reserved icon HA2 and the reserved icon HA3 can be adapted to the situation.

The reserved icon HA2 displayed in the display area 50e represents the special pattern 1 variable display that is currently being executed, and therefore becomes the icon HA2 when displayed in the display area 50e. In other words, the word that precedes "icon" is "reserved" for the icon displayed in the reserved display area 50d, and "relevant" for the icon displayed in the display area 50e. In other words, when a reserved icon is displayed and the start condition for the variable display of the special pattern for the reserved special pattern indicated by the reserved icon is met, the reserved icon corresponding to the variable display of the special pattern related to the satisfaction of the start condition is displayed as the icon.

When the icon changes from a hold icon to the relevant icon, in other words, when the icon moves from hold display area 50d to the relevant display area 50e, the size of the icon may remain the same or may be enlarged. In FIG. 30(C), the icon is enlarged to approximately twice its size when it moves from hold display area 50d to the relevant display area 50e.

When the game ball enters the first starting hole 11 from this state and a special chart 1 reservation occurs, as shown in FIG. 30(E), a new reservation icon HA4 is displayed in the second area 50d2 (not shown) described above in response to the occurrence of the special chart 1 reservation.

In this way, when the first starting hole 11 is won and a special chart 1 related random number is obtained, one common icon is displayed. This icon is erased when the special chart 1 variable display based on the winning ends, but while it is displayed, it exists with different names (the reserved icon and the icon in question) depending on the state of the special chart 1 variable display (the reserved state and the running state).

As mentioned above, the start winning command contains win/lose information and special chart change pattern information. Based on this win/lose information and special chart change pattern information, the pachinko gaming machine PY can display the reserved icon in a normal mode or a special mode. Displaying this reserved icon in a special mode is called a "reserved change notice."

When the display mode of the reserved icon is in a special mode, i.e., when a reserved change notice is made, the player can have hope that he or she may win the jackpot with the variable display of the special pattern corresponding to the reserved icon. Next, a specific example of a reserved change notice will be explained. As a specific example of a reserved change notice, let us assume that the display mode of the reserved icon HA4 shown in Figure 30 (E) becomes a special mode.

One type of hold change notice is a hold notice type that becomes a special mode immediately after the hold icon is displayed, in other words, a hold change notice is made when a special chart 1 hold occurs (when the ball enters the first starting hole 11). For example, as shown in FIG. 31(A), from the situation before the hold icon HA4 is displayed (the situation in FIG. 30(D)), when a game ball enters the first starting hole 11 and a special chart 1 hold occurs, as in the case of FIG. 30(E), the hold icon HA4 in the normal mode is displayed in the second area 50d2 (not shown) in response to the occurrence of the special chart 1 hold. In the drawing, the hold icon in the normal mode appears to be completely still, but in reality, it may be configured to be completely still, or the display position may not move but may be configured to lightly shake in place.

Then, immediately after that, as shown in FIG. 31(B), the display mode of the hold icon HA4 changes from the normal mode to a special mode (gray in FIG. 31(B)) (a hold change notice is given). Note that in the example of FIG. 31, the hold icon HA4 is displayed in the normal mode for a moment immediately after it is displayed, but it is also possible to display it in the special mode and eliminate the period during which it is displayed in the normal mode.

Another type of hold change notice is one in which a special mode is displayed when the hold icon moves; in other words, a hold change notice is displayed when the special chart 1 hold is shifted. For example, as shown in FIG. 32(A), from the situation before the hold icon HA4 is displayed (the situation in FIG. 30(D)), when a game ball enters the first starting hole 11 and a special chart 1 hold occurs, as shown in FIG. 32(B), in response to the occurrence of the special chart 1 hold, the hold icon HA4 in the normal mode (white in FIG. 32(B)) is displayed in the second area 50d2 not shown in the figure.

As shown in FIG. 32(C), when the stop display of the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 is performed, the icon HA2 that represented the special pattern variable display that was being performed immediately before is erased. Next, when the variable display of the special pattern (special pattern variable effect) is started based on the special pattern 1 reservation represented by the reservation icon HA3, the reservation icon HA3 displayed in the first area 50d1 moves to the display area 50e (not shown), and the reservation icon HA4 displayed in the second area 50d2 moves to the first area 50d1 (not shown), as shown in FIG. 32(D). Here, when the reservation icon HA4 moves from the second area 50d2 to the first area 50d1, its display mode changes from the normal mode to the special mode (gray in FIG. 32(D)) (reservation notice is performed).

In addition, multiple types of special modes related to the hold change notice can be provided, so that the probability of winning a jackpot varies depending on the type of special mode. For example, the display mode of the hold icon can be associated with the color of the hold icon, and white, green, red, and gold are set as the display modes of the hold icon. Here, white is the normal mode, and green, red, and gold are the special modes. The probability of winning a jackpot indicated by the display mode of the hold icon can be set in the following order: white < green < red < gold.

The look-ahead performance can be performed for both or either of the special chart 1 reserve and the special chart 2 reserve. The look-ahead performance is not limited to the display mode of the reserve icon HA, and can be performed using a performance device other than the image display device 50, such as an image other than the reserve icon HA on the display unit 50a, such as a background image, sound output from the speaker 52, light emitted by the frame lamp 53, and operation by the board moving device 55. Furthermore, the performance mode of the look-ahead performance may be a performance mode that continues without interruption from the time it is executed, such as a reserve change notice by the reserve icon HA, until the special chart change display begins, or a performance mode that is executed intermittently and continuously, such as each time the stop display of the performance pattern is performed or each time the change display of the performance pattern begins.

5. Game control by the game control microcomputer 101 [Game control main processing]
Next, the control of the game by the game control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to Figures 33 to 42. The flowchart for controlling the game described below is an example. The order of execution of multiple processes in the flowchart can be changed as appropriate or executed in parallel as long as there is no contradiction in the process contents.

The counters, timers, flags, status, buffers, etc. that appear in the game control by the game control microcomputer 101 described below are provided in the game RAM 104. The initial value of the counter is "0", the initial value of the flag is "0" (i.e. "OFF"), and the initial value of the status is "1".

When the pachinko game machine PY is powered on, the game control microcomputer 101 provided on the game control board 100 reads out and executes the game control main processing program shown in FIG. 33 from the game ROM 103. As shown in the figure, the game control main processing first performs power-on processing (S001). In the power-on processing, permission to access the game RAM 104 is set, the game CPU 102 is set, and the SIO (System Input/Output), PIO (Parallel Input/Output), and CTC (Counter/Timer Circuit: a circuit for managing interrupt time) are set.

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

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

[Game control side timer interrupt processing]
Next, the game control timer interrupt process (S005) will be described. As shown in FIG. 34, in the game control timer interrupt process (S005), first, the output process (S101) is executed. In the output process (S101), commands and the like set in the output buffer provided in the game RAM 104 of the game control board 100 in each process described below are output to the performance control board 120, the payout control board 170, and the like.

In the input process (S102) that follows the output process (S101), the game control microcomputer 101 receives a detection signal from the lower tray full switch that detects whether the surplus ball storage hole 35A is full, and stores this in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 as lower tray full data.

The normal and special symbol main random number update process (S103) that is performed next is the same as the normal and special symbol main random number update process (S003) that is performed in the game control main process in FIG. 33. In other words, the update process of the counter values of various random numbers related to the normal symbol related judgment information and the special symbol related judgment information is performed both during the execution period of the game control side timer interrupt process (S005) and during other periods (the period from the end of the main side timer interrupt process (S005) to the start of the next game control side timer interrupt process (S005)).

Following the normal and special symbol main random number update process (S103), the game control microcomputer 101 performs a sensor detection process (S104), then a normal action process (S105), and then a special action process (S106). The sensor detection process, normal action process, and special action process will be described later.

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 executes other processes (S107) and ends the game control timer interrupt process (S005). Other processes (S107) include power off monitoring process when the power is turned off and updating of the timer provided in the game RAM 104. Other processes (S107) include payout control process to pay out prize balls to the player. In the payout control process, it checks whether the prize ball counter for the first start port 11, the prize ball counter for the second start port 12, the prize ball counter for the large prize port 14, and the prize ball counter for the general prize port 10 exceed "0", and if they exceed "0", it sends a prize ball request signal to the payout control board 170. Then, when the prize ball signal is sent, an update process is performed to subtract "1" from the prize ball counter related to that signal.

The gaming control microcomputer 101 then repeatedly executes steps S002 to S004 of the gaming control main process until the next interrupt pulse is input to the gaming CPU 102, and when the interrupt pulse is input (approximately 4 msec later), it again executes the gaming control timer interrupt process (S005). In the output process (S101) of the gaming control timer interrupt process (S005) that has been executed again, the gaming control microcomputer 101 outputs the commands and the like that were set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104 in the previous gaming control timer interrupt process (S005).

[Sensor detection process]
Next, the sensor detection process will be described with reference to Figures 35 and 36. In the sensor detection process (S104), first, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the general winning opening 10, that is, whether or not a game ball has been detected by the general winning opening sensor 10a (S201). If a game ball has not entered the general winning opening 10 (NO in S201), the process proceeds to step S203, and if a game ball has entered the general winning opening 10 (YES in S201), a general winning opening prize ball process is performed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls to the game ball (S202). In the general winning opening prize ball process, the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning of the general winning opening 10 ("3" in the basic embodiment) is added to the prize ball counter for the general winning opening 10.

In step S203, it is determined whether the game ball has passed through the gate 13, i.e., whether the game ball has been detected by the gate sensor 13a. If the game ball has not passed through the gate 13 (NO in S203), the process proceeds to step S207. On the other hand, if the game ball has passed through the gate 13 (YES in S203), it is determined whether the normal operation status is 1, which will be described later, in other words, whether neither the normal pattern variable display nor the auxiliary game is being performed (S204). If the normal operation status is not 1 (NO in S204), the process proceeds to step S207. If the normal operation status is 1 (YES in S204), the normal pattern random number indicated by the counter value of the normal pattern random number counter (LABEL-TRND-F) is obtained as normal pattern related judgment information (S205), and the obtained normal pattern related judgment information is stored in the normal pattern reservation memory unit 86 provided in the gaming RAM 104 (S206), and the process proceeds to step S207.

In step S207, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the second start hole 12, i.e., whether or not a game ball has been detected by the second start hole sensor 12a. If a game ball has not entered the second start hole 12 (NO in S207), the process proceeds to step S214. If a game ball has entered the second start hole 12 (YES in S207), second start hole prize ball processing is performed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls to the game ball (S208). In the second start hole prize ball processing, the number of prize balls corresponding to the entry into the second start hole 12 ("2" in the basic embodiment) is added to the prize ball counter for the second start hole 12.

Next, it is determined whether the number of reserved special figures 2 (specifically, the value of the counter (reserved special figure 2 counter) that counts the number of reserved special figures 2 provided in the gaming RAM 104) is "4" (upper limit memory number) or more (S209). If the reserved special figure 2 number is "4" or more (YES in S209), the process proceeds to step S214, but if the reserved special figure 2 number is not "4" or more (less than "4") (NO in S209), a reserved special figure 2 number addition process is performed (S210). In the reserved special figure 2 number addition process, the reserved special figure 2 number counter is added by "1" and the reserved special figure 2 number indicated by the reserved special figure 2 indicator 83b is increased by "1".

Next, special chart 2 related judgment information consisting of a special symbol random number counter (label-TRND-T), a jackpot symbol type random number counter (label-TRND-OS), a reach random number counter (label-TRND-RC), and a special chart change pattern random number counter (label-TRND-HP) is obtained and stored in a special chart related judgment information buffer provided in the gaming RAM 104 (S211).

Next, a second look-ahead judgment process is performed (S212). In the second look-ahead judgment process, the second start winning command is identified by comparing the current game state and the special chart 2 related judgment information acquired in step S211 with the second look-ahead judgment table shown in FIG. 14, and the identified second start winning command is set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104.

Then, the game control microcomputer 101 stores the special chart 2 related judgment information acquired in step S211 in the special chart 2 reservation memory unit 105b (S213).

Next, in step S214, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the first start hole 11, i.e., whether or not a game ball has been detected by the first start hole sensor 11a. If a game ball has not entered the first start hole 11 (NO in S214), the process proceeds to step S221. If a game ball has entered the first start hole 11 (YES in S214), a first start hole prize ball process is performed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls to the game ball (S215). In the first start hole prize ball process, the number of prize balls corresponding to the entry into the first start hole 11 ("4" in the basic embodiment) is added to the prize ball counter for the first start hole 11.

Next, it is determined whether the number of reserved special charts 1 (specifically, the value of the counter (reserved special chart 1 counter) that counts the number of reserved special charts 1 provided in the gaming RAM 104) is "4" (upper limit memory number) or more (S216). If the reserved special chart 1 number is "4" or more (YES in S216), the process proceeds to step S221, but if the reserved special chart 1 number is not "4" or more (is less than "4") (NO in S216), a reserved special chart 1 number addition process is performed (S217). In the reserved special chart 1 number addition process, the reserved special chart 1 number counter is added by "1" and the reserved special chart 1 number indicated by the reserved special chart 1 indicator 83a is increased by "1".

Next, special chart 1 related judgment information consisting of a special symbol random number counter (label-TRND-T), a jackpot symbol type random number counter (label-TRND-OS), a reach random number counter (label-TRND-RC), and a special chart change pattern random number counter (label-TRND-HP) is obtained and stored in a special chart related judgment information buffer provided in the gaming RAM 104 (S218).

Next, a first look-ahead judgment process is performed (S219). In the first look-ahead judgment process, the current game state and the special chart 1 related judgment information acquired in step S218 are compared with the first look-ahead judgment table shown in FIG. 13 to identify the first start winning command, and the identified first start winning command is set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104.

Then, the game control microcomputer 101 stores the special chart 1 related judgment information acquired in step S218 in a memory area of the special chart 1 reservation memory unit 105a that corresponds to the current number of special charts 1 reserved (S220).

In step S221, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the large prize opening 14, that is, whether or not a game ball has been detected by the large prize opening sensor 14a. If a game ball has not entered the large prize opening 14 (NO in S221), the sensor detection process is terminated. If a game ball has entered the large prize opening 14 (YES in S221), it is determined whether or not the counter value of the large prize opening entry counter provided in the game RAM 104 is "9" or more (S222). The large prize opening entry counter is a counter for counting the number of balls that have entered the large prize opening 14 in one round of the jackpot game. The large prize opening entry counter is cleared each time a round of the game ends. In the basic embodiment, the number of balls that can enter the large prize opening 14 in one round of the game (the specified number of balls that can be entered) is set to "10". Therefore, the process of step S222 is performed.

If the counter value of the large prize opening winning counter is "11" or more (YES in S222), the sensor detection process is terminated. If the counter value of the large prize opening winning counter is not "11" or more, i.e., is less than "11" (NO in S222), the counter value of the large prize opening winning counter is incremented by "1" (S223), a large prize opening prize ball process is performed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls to the player (S224), and the sensor detection process is terminated. Note that in the large prize opening prize ball process, the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning at the large prize opening 14 ("9" in the basic embodiment) is incremented to the prize ball counter for the large prize opening 14.

In addition, a sensor other than sensors 10a to 14a may be provided as a sensor capable of detecting a gaming ball, and processing other than that shown in Figures 35 to 36 may be performed based on the detection of a gaming ball by that sensor.

[Normal operation processing]
Next, the normal operation process for controlling the normal display 82 and the electric chute 12D will be described. As shown in FIG. 37, the process for the normal display 82 and the electric chute 12D is divided into four statuses (stages). And, "normal operation status = 1, 2, 3, 4" is assigned to each of these statuses. In the normal operation process (S105), the game control microcomputer 101 first checks the "normal operation status" (S1101). If the "normal operation status" is "1", it performs the normal symbol waiting process (S1102), if the "normal operation status" is "2", it performs the normal symbol change process (S1103), if the "normal operation status" is "3", it performs the normal symbol determination process (S1104), and if the "normal operation status" is "4", it performs the auxiliary game control process (S1105). Note that the "normal operation status" is initially set to "1".

The normal symbol standby process (S1102) is a process that is performed during standby when the normal symbol variable display and auxiliary play are not being performed. In the normal symbol standby process (S1102), a win determination is performed based on the normal symbol random number stored in the normal symbol reserve memory unit 86. Furthermore, a normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination is performed based on the current game state to determine the normal symbol fluctuation pattern, and the normal symbol display 82 starts to display the normal symbol fluctuation for the normal symbol fluctuation time according to the determined normal symbol fluctuation pattern, and the normal operation status is changed to "2". Furthermore, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a normal symbol fluctuation start command according to the normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination result in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 when the normal symbol fluctuation display starts.

The normal pattern change process (S1103) is a process that is performed when the normal pattern is changing. In the normal pattern change process (S1103), it is determined whether the normal pattern change time has elapsed since the start of the ongoing normal pattern change display (whether to end the normal pattern change display), and if it is determined that the normal pattern change time has elapsed, the normal pattern is stopped based on the hit determination result, and the normal operation status is changed to "3". In addition, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a normal pattern change stop command in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 when the normal pattern change display starts.

The normal symbol determination process (S1104) is a process that is performed when the normal symbol is displayed stationary. In the normal symbol determination process (S1104), it is determined whether a predetermined stop time (for example, 0.8 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the stationary display of the ongoing normal symbol (whether to end the stationary display of the normal symbol), and if it is determined that the predetermined stop time has elapsed, it is determined whether the stationary display of the normal symbol is a winning symbol. If it is not a winning symbol (if the stationary display of the normal symbol is a losing symbol), the normal operation status is changed to "1". On the other hand, if a winning symbol is displayed stationary, the normal operation status is changed to "4", and the auxiliary game is started based on the current game state and the auxiliary game control table. Furthermore, the game control microcomputer 101 sets an auxiliary game start command in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 when the auxiliary game starts.

The auxiliary game control process (S1105) is a process that is performed when an auxiliary game is being played. In the auxiliary game control process (S1105), the auxiliary game is controlled based on the current game state and the auxiliary game control table. Then, when the auxiliary game ends, the normal operation status is changed to "1".

[Special Action Processing]
Next, the special operation process related to the control of the special chart display 81, the special chart reserve display 83, and the big prize device 14D will be described. As shown in FIG. 38, the process related to the special chart display 81, the special chart reserve display 83, and the big prize device 14D is divided into five statuses (stages). And, each status is assigned a "special operation status = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5". The game control microcomputer 101 first checks the "special operation status" (S1501).

When the "special operation status" is "1", the game control microcomputer 101 performs a special symbol waiting process (S1502); when the "special operation status" is "2", it performs a special symbol variation process (S1503); when the "special operation status" is "3", it performs a special symbol determination process (S1504); when the "special operation status" is "4", it performs a big win game control process (S1505); when the "special operation status" is "5", it performs a game state setting process (S1506). Note that the "special operation status" is initially set to "1".

The special symbol waiting process (S1502) is a process that is carried out during waiting when the special symbol is not being displayed or a jackpot is not being played. The special symbol waiting process will be described in detail later.

The special symbol change process (S1503) is a process that is performed when the special symbol is changing. The special symbol change process will be described in detail later.

The special symbol determination process (S1504) is a process that is performed when a special symbol is displayed stationary. The special symbol determination process will be described in detail later.

The jackpot game control process (S1505) is a process performed during a jackpot game. The game control microcomputer 101 performs the jackpot game control process to play a jackpot game according to the jackpot game control table. When the jackpot game ends, the special operation status is changed to "5". When each round of play starts, a round number designation command indicating the number of rounds is set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104. When all rounds of play end and an ending starts, an ending command indicating an ending corresponding to the jackpot symbol related to that jackpot game is set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104. When the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special operation status to "4" and controls the jackpot game, this state is called a "jackpot game state", and the state in which the special operation status "4" is set is called a "jackpot game state".

The game state setting process (S1506) is a process for setting the game state to be controlled after the jackpot game when the jackpot game ends. For example, if the game is to be controlled in a high probability state after the jackpot game, the high probability flag is set ON in the high probability flag area of the game RAM 104 to set the high probability state. Furthermore, if the duration of the high probability state is to be limited at this time, the duration is also set. For example, if the end condition of the high probability state is the number of times that the special chart variable display is executed, that number (hereinafter, referred to as the "high probability specified number of times") is set in the high probability remaining number counter provided in the game RAM 104. Furthermore, if the game is to be controlled in a time-saving state after the jackpot game, the time-saving flag is set ON in the time-saving flag area of the game RAM 104 to set the time-saving state. Furthermore, if the duration of the time-saving state is to be limited at this time, the duration is also set. For example, if the condition for ending the time-saving state is the number of times the special chart variable display is executed, that number (hereinafter referred to as the "prescribed number of times for time-saving") is set in a remaining number of times for time-saving counter provided in the gaming RAM 104.

In addition, in the game status setting process, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a game status command indicating the game status after the jackpot game in the output buffer of the game RAM 104.

[Special symbol standby process]
Next, the special symbol waiting process will be described with reference to FIG. 39. In the special symbol waiting process (S1502), first, it is determined whether the special symbol 2 reserved number is "0" (S1601). If the special symbol 2 reserved number is "0" (YES in S1601), that is, if there is no memory of the special symbol 2 related judgment information acquired due to winning the second starting gate 12, it is determined whether the special symbol 1 reserved number is "0" (S1608). Then, if the special symbol 1 reserved number is also "0" (YES in S1608), that is, if there is no memory of the special symbol 1 related judgment information acquired due to winning the first starting gate 11, it is determined whether the customer waiting flag is ON (S1618). Here, if the customer waiting flag is ON (YES in S1618), the special pattern waiting process is terminated, and if the customer waiting flag is not ON (NO in S1618), a customer waiting command is set in the output buffer (S1619), the customer waiting flag is set ON (S1620), and the special pattern waiting process is terminated.

In addition, if the number of reserved special charts 2 is "0" but the number of reserved special charts 1 is not "0" (YES in S1601 and NO in S1608), that is, if there is no special chart 2 related judgment information but there is one or more memories of special chart 1 related judgment information obtained due to winning at the first starting port 11, a special chart 1 judgment process (S1609) and a special chart 1 change pattern judgment process (S1610) are performed.

In the special symbol 1 determination process (S1609), the earliest special symbol random number stored in the special symbol 1 reserved memory unit 105a is read out, and a determination is made as to whether it is a jackpot or a miss (jackpot determination) based on the jackpot determination table associated with the game state.

Here, if the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, the jackpot symbol type random number is read out and the jackpot symbol type is determined (jackpot symbol type determination) based on the first jackpot symbol type determination table. Then, jackpot symbol data representing the jackpot symbol type is set in a special symbol buffer provided in the gaming RAM 104, and a symbol designation command representing the jackpot symbol type is set in an output buffer provided in the gaming RAM 104.

In addition, if the result of the jackpot determination is a "miss," the miss pattern data indicating the miss is set in the special pattern buffer, and the pattern designation command indicating the miss is set in the output buffer.

Next, the special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination process (S1610) will be explained using FIG. 40. In the special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination process, first, it is determined whether or not the current state is not time-saving (S1651). If the current state is not time-saving (YES in S1651), a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table for the non-time-saving state is selected (S1652) before proceeding to step S1654, and if the current state is not time-saving (NO in S1651), a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table for the time-saving state is selected (S1653) before proceeding to step S1654.

In step S1654, the game control microcomputer 101 judges whether the jackpot judgment result is a "jackpot". If it is not a jackpot (NO in S1654), the process proceeds to step S1655. If it is a jackpot (YES in S1654), the process selects a special pattern 1 variation table for the jackpot pattern from the special pattern 1 variation pattern judgment tables selected in either step S1652 or step S1653 (S1659), and then proceeds to step S1660.

In step S1655, the game control microcomputer 101 performs a reach judgment. In the reach judgment, the reach random number is read and the reach random number is compared with a reach judgment table corresponding to the current game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state) to judge whether or not there is a reach.

The game control microcomputer 101 then determines whether the result of the reach determination in step S1655 is "reach" (S1656). If there is a reach (YES in S1656), select a special chart 1 variation pattern determination table for reach with miss from the special chart 1 variation pattern determination table selected in either step S1652 or step S1653 (S1658) and then proceed to step S1660. If there is no reach (NO in S1656), check the current number of reserved special charts 1, and select a special chart 1 variation pattern determination table for no reach with miss corresponding to the number of reserved special charts 1 from the special chart 1 variation pattern determination table selected in either step S1652 or step S1653 (S1657) and then proceed to step S1660.

In step S1660, the game control microcomputer 101 reads out the special symbol variation pattern random number, and compares the special symbol variation pattern random number with the special symbol 1 variation pattern determination table selected in any of steps S1657 to S1659 to perform a special symbol 1 variation pattern determination to determine the special symbol 1 variation pattern. Next, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a special symbol 1 variation start command indicating the determined special symbol 1 variation pattern in the output buffer (S1661), sets the special symbol variation time corresponding to the determined special symbol 1 variation pattern in the special operation timer (S1662), ends the special symbol 1 variation pattern determination process, and returns the process to the special symbol standby process.

The special action timer is updated every 4 ms in other processes in the game control timer interrupt process. The special symbol 1 change start command that is set also includes information on the type of special symbol (that it is special symbol 1) and information on the results of the special symbol change pattern determination performed in the special symbol 1 change pattern determination process (S1610) (information on the special symbol change pattern, including the presence or absence of a reach and information on the special symbol change time).

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 causes the special chart 1 display 81a to start displaying the variation of the special chart 1 based on the special chart variation time corresponding to the special chart 1 variation pattern determined in step S1610 (S1611).

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 shifts the storage location (memory area) of the various counter values in the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a from the current position to the side to be read, and performs a special chart 1 reserved memory unit shift process to clear the memory area corresponding to the first reserved item in the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a (the memory area farthest from the side to be read) (S1612). In this way, the special chart 1 reserved items are consumed in the order in which they were reserved.

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 decrements the special chart 1 reserved number counter by "1" (S1613), decreases the special chart 1 reserved number indicated by the special chart 1 reserved display 83a by "1" (S1614), and changes the special operation status to "2" (S1615).

The game control microcomputer 101 then determines whether the customer waiting flag is ON (S1616), and if it is ON (YES in S1616), it turns the customer waiting flag OFF (S1617) and ends the special symbol waiting process, and if it is not ON (NO in S1616), it ends the special symbol waiting process without executing step S1617.

In addition, in step S1601, if the number of reserved special charts 2 is not "0" (NO in S1601), that is, if there is one or more memories of special chart 2 related judgment information acquired due to winning at the second starting port 12, a special chart 2 judgment process (S1602) and a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment process (S1603) are performed. The special chart 2 judgment process (S1602) and the special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment process (S1603) are basically the same processing content as the special chart 1 judgment process (S1609) and the special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment process (S1610).

The special chart 2 determination process (S1602) is basically the same as the special chart 1 determination process (S1609), except that the table used in the jackpot determination is the second jackpot determination table, and the table used in the jackpot pattern type determination is the second jackpot pattern type determination table, so a description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the special chart 2 variation pattern determination process (S1603) is basically the same as the special chart 1 variation pattern determination process (S1610), except that the table used in the special chart 2 variation pattern determination is the special chart 2 variation pattern determination table, so a description thereof will be omitted.

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 causes the special chart 2 display 81b to start displaying the variation of the special chart 2 based on the special chart variation time corresponding to the special chart variation pattern determined in step S1603 (S1604).

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 shifts the storage location (memory area) of the various counter values in the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b from the current position to the side to be read, and performs a special chart 2 reserved memory unit shift process to clear the memory area corresponding to the fourth reserved item in the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b (the memory area farthest from the side to be read) (S1605). In this way, the special chart 2 reserved items are consumed in the order in which they were reserved.

Then, the game control microcomputer 101 decrements the special chart 2 reserved number counter by "1" (S1606), changes the special chart 2 reserved number indicated by the special chart 2 reserved display 83b by decreasing it by "1" (S1607), changes the special operation status to "2" (S1615), and proceeds to step S1616.

As described above, in the basic embodiment, the display of the special pattern based on the special pattern 1 reservation is performed only when the special pattern 2 reservation is "0" (YES in S1601). In other words, the consumption of the special pattern 2 reservation is executed in priority to the consumption of the special pattern 1 reservation. And in the basic embodiment, the lottery based on the special pattern 2 reservation makes it easier for the player to win a jackpot pattern that is more profitable for the player than the lottery based on the special pattern 1 reservation. Note that the consumption of the special pattern 1 reservation may be executed in priority to the consumption of the special pattern 2 reservation. Also, the consumption of the special pattern 1 reservation and the consumption of the special pattern 2 reservation may be performed in the order in which the reservations were generated, regardless of the type of special pattern.

[Special pattern change processing]
Next, the special symbol variation process will be described with reference to Fig. 41. In the special symbol variation process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the special symbol variation display is to be terminated, that is, whether or not the special symbol variation time set in the special operation timer in step S1603 or step S1610 has elapsed (special operation counter = 0) (S1701). If the special symbol variation display is not to be terminated (NO in S1701), the special symbol variation process is terminated, and if the special symbol variation display is to be terminated (YES in S1701), the special symbol display unit 81 is caused to terminate the special symbol variation display and to stop display the special symbol according to the symbol data (jackpot symbol data or loss special symbol data) set in the special symbol buffer in step S1602 or step S1609 (S1702).

Next, a preset special pattern determination time (e.g., 0.8 seconds) is set in the special operation timer (S1703), a special pattern change stop command indicating that the special pattern change display is to end is set in the output buffer (S1704), the special operation status is changed to "3" (S1705), and the special pattern change processing is terminated.

[Special design confirmation process]
Next, the special symbol determination process will be described with reference to Fig. 42. In the special symbol determination process (S1504), the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the stopped display of the special symbol is to be ended, that is, whether or not the special symbol determination time set in the special operation timer in step S1703 has elapsed (special operation counter = 0) (S1751). If the stopped display of the special symbol is not to be ended (NO in S1751), the special symbol determination process is ended, and if the stopped display of the special symbol is to be ended (YES in S1751), it determines whether or not the current state is a normal probability state (high probability flag is OFF) (S1752).

If the game control microcomputer 101 is not currently in the normal probability state (NO in S1752), it proceeds to step S1757, and if currently in the normal probability state (YES in S1752), it determines whether or not it is in the time-saving state (time-saving flag is ON) (S1753). If the game control microcomputer 101 is not currently in the time-saving state (NO in S1753), it proceeds to step S1757, and if currently in the time-saving state (YES in S1753), it subtracts "1" from the value of the time-saving remaining number counter that measures the remaining number of times (time-saving remaining number) that the variable display of the special pattern that can be executed in the time-saving state is performed (S1754), and it determines whether or not the value of the time-saving remaining number counter is "0" (S1755). If the value of the remaining time-saving counter (remaining time-saving times) is not "0" (NO in S1755), proceed to step S1757; if the value of the remaining time-saving counter (remaining time-saving times) is "0" (YES in S1755), transition from the time-saving state to a non-time-saving state (turn off the time-saving flag) (S1756), and proceed to step S1757.

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 checks the current game state, sets a game state command indicating that game state in the output buffer (S1757), and determines whether the currently displayed stopped special symbol is a jackpot symbol or not (S1758). If it is not a jackpot symbol (NO in S1758), the special action status is changed to "1" (S1762), and the special symbol determination process is completed. If it is a jackpot symbol (YES in S1758), the game state is reset (the normal game state is set. Specifically, the high probability flag and the time-saving flag are turned OFF, and the values of the high probability remaining number counter and the time-saving remaining number counter are set to "0") (S1759).

Then, the game control microcomputer 101 performs a jackpot game preparation process (S1760), changes the special operation status to "4" (S1761), and ends the special symbol determination process. In the jackpot game preparation process, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a jackpot game control table corresponding to the type of jackpot symbol in a predetermined area of the game RAM 104. In addition, a jackpot opening flag indicating that an opening corresponding to the stopped jackpot symbol is in progress is turned ON in a predetermined area of the game RAM 104, and a predetermined opening time (the time from the start of the jackpot game to the start of one round) is set in the special operation timer according to the type of jackpot symbol. Furthermore, an opening command indicating the type of jackpot symbol is set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 according to the type of jackpot symbol. The opening command corresponding to the type of jackpot symbol indicates that a jackpot game (opening of the jackpot game) corresponding to the type of the stopped jackpot symbol is to start.

6. Control of the performance by the performance control board 120 [Main processing for performance control]
Next, the control of the performance by the performance control board 120 will be described using the flowcharts of Figures 43 to 47. The flowcharts for controlling the performance described below are only examples. The execution order of the multiple processes in the flowcharts can be changed as appropriate or executed in parallel, as long as no contradiction occurs in the process contents.

The counters, timers, flags, buffers, etc. that appear in the following description of the control of effects by the effect control board 120 are provided in the effect RAM 124. When the power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine PY, the effect control microcomputer 121 provided in the effect control board 120 reads out the sub-control main processing program shown in FIG. 43 from the effect ROM 123 and executes it.

As shown in the figure, the main performance control process first performs power-on processing in response to power-on (S4001). The power-on processing includes, for example, setting the performance CPU 122, and setting the SIO, PIO, CTC (circuit for managing interrupt time), etc.

Next, interrupts are prohibited (S4002), and random number seed update processing is executed (S4003). In the random number seed update processing (S4003), the values of various random number counters for determining effects are updated to make judgments regarding various effects. Note that the random numbers for determining effects include various random numbers for determining the content of effects, such as random numbers for determining stopping pattern patterns, which will be described later, and random numbers for determining special pattern variation effect patterns.

As an example, the method of updating the random number counter for determining various effects can be the same as the random number update process performed by the game control board 100 described above. When updating, the random number value may be incremented by 2 instead of incremented by 1. This is also the same as the random number update process performed by the game control board 100 described above.

When the random number seed update process is completed, a command transmission process is executed (S4004). In the command transmission process, various commands (such as the special chart change performance start command, customer waiting start command, opening performance start command, round performance start command, and ending performance start command described below) stored in the output buffer in the performance RAM 124 of the performance control board 120 are transmitted to the image control board 140.

The image control board 140, which has received the command, displays an image on the display unit 50a in accordance with the received command (executing various effects using images). In addition to the various effects performed by the image control board 140, the effect control board 120 also outputs sound from the speaker 52 via the sound control circuit 161 (executing various effects using sound), lights up the frame lamp 53 via the sub-drive board 162 (executing various effects using light), and operates the movable board 55k (executing various effects using operation). The various effects include special chart change effects, big win game effects (big win opening effects, round effects, big win ending effects), customer waiting effects, operation effects, and pre-reading effects.

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

The receiving interrupt process (S4010) is executed each time a strobe signal, i.e., any of the various commands sent from the gaming control board 100, is input to the external INT input section of the performance control microcomputer 121. In the receiving interrupt process (S4010), the performance control microcomputer 121 stores the various commands sent and received by the output process (S101) of the gaming control board 100 in the receiving buffer of the performance RAM 124. This receiving interrupt process is executed with priority over other interrupt processes (S4011, S4012).

[1 ms timer interrupt processing]
Next, the 1 ms timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG. 44. The 1 ms timer interrupt process (S4011) is executed every time an interrupt pulse with a 1 msec period is input to the performance control board 120. In the 1 ms timer interrupt process (S4011), the performance control microcomputer 121 first performs input processing (S4101). In the input processing, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates first performance button switch data based on the detection signal from the first performance button sensor 40a. The performance control microcomputer 121 creates second performance button switch data based on the detection signal from the second performance button sensor 41a.

Next, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs light emission data output processing (S4102). In the light emission data output processing, the performance control microcomputer 121 outputs the light emission data created in the light emission data creation processing (S4203) in the 10 ms timer interrupt processing described below to the sub-drive board 162 in order to cause the frame lamp 53 to emit light at a timing that matches the image-based performance, etc. In other words, the performance control microcomputer 121 causes the frame lamp 53 to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode according to the light emission data.

Next, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs movable device control processing (S4103). In the movable device control processing, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates or outputs drive data (data for driving the board movable body 55k) to drive the board movable body 55k at a predetermined timing. In other words, the performance control microcomputer 121 drives the board movable body 55k in a predetermined operating mode according to the drive data.

Next, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs a timer update process (S4104). In the timer update process, various timers provided in the performance RAM 124 (described later) are updated in order to manage and control the time related to various specified performances. In this process, the timers provided in the performance RAM 124 are updated by 1 msec.

Then, the performance control microcontroller 121 performs watchdog timer processing to reset the watchdog timer (S4105), and ends the 1 ms timer interrupt processing.

[10ms timer interrupt processing]
Next, the 10 ms timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG. 45. The 10 ms timer interrupt process (S4012) is executed every time an interrupt pulse with a 10 msec period is input to the performance control board 120. In the 10 ms timer interrupt process, the performance control microcomputer 121 first performs a received command analysis process (S4201) to analyze the commands stored in the receive buffer in step S4010. The received command analysis process will be described in detail in the basic embodiment described later.

Next, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs audio control processing (S4202). In the audio control processing, audio data (data that controls the audio output from the speaker 52) is created and output to the audio control circuit 161 based on the performance content indicated by the special chart change performance data set in the performance RAM 124.

Next, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs a light emission data creation process (S4203). In the light emission data creation process, light emission data is created based on the performance content indicated by the special chart variation performance data set in the performance RAM 124.

[Received command analysis process]
Next, the received command analysis process will be described with reference to Figures 46 and 47. In the received command analysis process, the performance control microcomputer 121 first determines whether or not it has received a start winning command (first start winning command or second start winning command) from the game control board 100, in other words, whether or not it has stored the start winning command in the receiving buffer (S4301). If the performance control microcomputer 121 has received a start winning command (YES in S4301), it proceeds to step S4302, whereas if it has not received a start winning command (NO in S4301), it proceeds to step S4303.

In step S4302, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs start winning processing in response to the game ball winning in the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12. In the start winning processing, the received start winning command is stored in the start winning command reservation memory unit 125 in the performance RAM 124. Next, the performance control microcomputer 121 analyzes the stored start winning command and determines whether or not to execute a look-ahead performance indicating the expected probability of a jackpot. The look-ahead performance includes a reservation change notice that displays the reservation icon in a special manner, as well as a continuous notice performance that is performed over multiple consecutive changes in the special pattern. If it is decided to execute these look-ahead performances, a look-ahead performance start command for executing the determined performance is set in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124.

When the look-ahead performance start command set in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124 is sent to the image control board 140 by the command sending process (S4004), the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 reads a specified performance image from the image ROM 142 and performs a look-ahead performance by image on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. In addition, while the look-ahead performance by image is being performed by the image control board 140, the performance control microcomputer 121 can output sound from the speaker 52 via the sound control circuit 161 (perform a look-ahead performance by sound) according to the look-ahead performance content indicated by the look-ahead performance start command sent to the image control board 140, and can also light up the frame lamp 53 via the sub-drive board 162 (perform a look-ahead performance by light emission), and operate the board movable body 55k (perform a look-ahead performance by operation).

In step S4303, the performance control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not it has received a symbol designation command from the game control board 100, in other words, whether or not it has stored the symbol designation command in the receiving buffer. If the performance control microcomputer 121 has not received a symbol designation command (NO in S4303), it proceeds to step S4305, whereas if it has received a symbol designation command (YES in S4303), it stores the symbol designation command in the symbol designation command memory unit 126 in the performance RAM 124 (S4304).

In step S4305, the performance control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not a special chart change start command has been received from the game control board 100, in other words, whether or not the special chart change start command has been stored in the reception buffer. If the special chart change start command has not been received (NO in S4305), the process proceeds to step S4307. On the other hand, if the special chart change start command has been received (YES in S4305), the performance content of the special chart change performance is determined, and special chart change performance start processing (S4306) is performed to start the special chart change performance.

In the special symbol variation performance start process, the performance control microcomputer 121 first stores a special symbol variation start command in the special symbol variation start command memory unit 127 in the performance RAM 124. Next, based on the contents of the stopped special symbol (type of big win symbol, losing special symbol) indicated by the symbol designation command already stored in step S4304 and the special symbol variation pattern indicated by the special symbol variation start command, a stop symbol pattern determination table is selected for performing stop symbol determination for determining the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 and small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 to be stopped and displayed. A plurality of stop symbol pattern determination tables are provided in association with the special symbols and special symbol variation patterns. Therefore, the performance control microcomputer 121 selects one stop symbol pattern determination table associated with the stopped special symbol and special symbol variation pattern. In each stopping pattern determination table, the values of the random numbers for determining the stopping pattern pattern (stopping pattern determination values) are allocated to the multiple performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 and the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 so as to achieve a predetermined allocation rate (%). Next, the performance control microcomputer 121 obtains the value indicated by the random number counter for determining the stopping pattern pattern as a random number for determining the stopping pattern pattern, and performs a stopping pattern determination based on the obtained random number for determining the stopping pattern pattern.

In determining the stop symbol pattern, the performance control microcomputer 121 checks the acquired random number for determining the stop symbol pattern against the selected stop symbol pattern table, determines the performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 and small symbols KZ1-KZ3 to be displayed, and sets data representing the determined performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 and small symbols KZ1-KZ3 in a specified area of the performance RAM 124. For example, if the special symbol variation pattern is a no-reach miss variation, a combination of the performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 and small symbols KZ1-KZ3 is selected to result in a so-called "varied pattern." Also, if the special symbol variation pattern is a reach miss variation, a combination of the performance symbols EZ1-EZ3 and small symbols KZ1-KZ3 is selected so that the left performance symbol EZ1 and the right performance symbol EZ3 are the same, and the center performance symbol EZ2 is different from them. Furthermore, if the special pattern variation is a jackpot variation, a combination of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 and the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 is selected to produce a so-called "double number" according to the performance mode and the type of jackpot pattern.

Next, the performance control microcomputer 121 selects a special chart change performance pattern determination table for performing a special chart change performance pattern determination for determining a special chart change performance pattern associated with the performance content of the special chart change performance based on the currently-present performance mode and the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command. A plurality of special chart change performance pattern determination tables are provided in association with the performance mode and the special chart change pattern. Thus, the performance control microcomputer 121 selects one special chart change performance pattern determination table associated with the special chart change pattern. In each special chart change performance pattern determination table, the value of the special chart change performance pattern determination random number (special chart change performance pattern determination value) is allocated to one or more special chart change performance patterns so as to achieve a predetermined allocation rate (%). Next, the performance control microcomputer 121 acquires the value indicated by the special chart change performance pattern determination random number counter as a special chart change performance pattern determination random number, and performs a special chart change performance pattern determination based on the acquired special chart change performance pattern determination random number.

When determining the special chart change performance pattern, the performance control microcomputer 121 compares the acquired random number for determining the special chart change performance pattern with the selected special chart change performance pattern table, determines the special chart change performance pattern, sets data representing the determined special chart change performance pattern (special chart change performance pattern data) in a specified area of the performance RAM 124, and sets a special chart change performance start command indicating the special chart change performance pattern in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124.

When the special chart change performance start command set in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124 is sent to the image control board 140 by the command sending process (S4004), the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 reads a specified performance image from the image ROM 142 and performs a special chart change performance using an image on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50.

The special chart change performance start command also includes information about the performance flow associated with the special chart change pattern indicated by the special chart change start command. In addition to the special chart change performance by image performed by the image display device 50, the special chart change performance by sound output from the speaker 52, the performance content of the special chart change performance by light emission by the frame lamp 53, and the performance content of the special chart change performance by the operation performed by the board movable body 55k are also included in the special chart change performance start command.

In addition, while the special chart change performance by image is being performed by the image control board 140, the performance control microcomputer 121 outputs sound from the speaker 52 via the audio control circuit 161 (executes the special chart change performance by sound) according to the special chart change performance content indicated by the special chart change performance start command sent to the image control board 140, and also causes the frame lamp 53 to light up via the sub-drive board 162 (executes the special chart change performance by light emission), and operates the board movable body 55k (executes the special chart change performance by movement).

In step S4307, the performance control microcomputer 121 judges whether or not a special chart change stop command has been received from the game control board 100, in other words, whether or not the special chart change stop command has been stored in the reception buffer. If the performance control microcomputer 121 has not received the special chart change stop command (NO in S4307), it proceeds to step S4309, whereas if it has received the special chart change stop command (YES in S4307), it performs special chart change performance end processing (S4308) to end the special chart change performance (stopping the change display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 and small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 and performing a stop display).

In the special chart change performance end process, the performance control microcomputer 121 analyzes the special chart change stop command, and based on the analysis result, sets the special chart change performance end command in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124 to appropriately end the special chart change performance (stop the changing display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 and the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3). When the image control board 140 receives the special chart change performance end command, it ends the special chart change performance that is being executed (stops the changing performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 and the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3).

In step S4309, the presentation control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not a game state command has been received from the game control board 100, in other words, whether or not the game state command has been stored in the receiving buffer. If the presentation control microcomputer 121 has not received a game state command (NO in S4309), it proceeds to step S4311. If the presentation control microcomputer 121 has received a game state command (YES in S4309), it analyzes the game state command to identify the game state represented by the game state command and performs a game state setting process to set the game state (S4310).

In the game state setting process, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets a game state flag corresponding to the game state indicated by the game state command in the game state flag area of the presentation RAM 124. For example, if the game state indicated by the game state command is a normal game state, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the game state flag "00H" in the game state flag area of the presentation RAM 124. Also, if the game state indicated by the game state command is a high probability high base game state, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the game state flag "01H" in the game state flag area of the presentation RAM 124. Furthermore, if the game state indicated by the game state command is a low probability high base game state, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the game state flag "02H" in the game state flag area of the presentation RAM 124.

In step S4311, the performance control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not a customer waiting command has been received from the game control board 100, in other words, whether or not the customer waiting command has been stored in the reception buffer. If the performance control microcomputer 121 has not received a customer waiting command (NO in S4311), it proceeds to step S4313, whereas if it has received a customer waiting command (YES in S4311), it performs customer waiting performance standby processing (S4312) and ends the received command analysis processing.

In the customer waiting performance standby process, the performance control microcomputer 121 sets the waiting time from when the performance pattern is stopped to when the customer waiting performance starts (customer waiting performance standby time: for example, 20 seconds) in the customer waiting performance timer. The performance control microcomputer 121 can determine whether this standby time has elapsed, and if it determines that the standby time has elapsed, it sets a customer waiting performance start command to start the customer waiting performance in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124.

In step S4313, the performance control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not an opening command has been received from the game control board 100, in other words, whether or not the opening command has been stored in the receiving buffer. If the performance control microcomputer 121 has not received an opening command (NO in S4313), it proceeds to step S4315, whereas if it has received an opening command (YES in S4313), it performs jackpot opening performance start processing associated with the start of the opening of the jackpot game (S4314).

In the jackpot opening performance start process, the performance control microcomputer 121 analyzes the opening command and, based on the analysis result, determines whether or not to execute a jackpot opening performance corresponding to the opening of the jackpot game that is about to be executed. If executed, it selects the performance content of the jackpot opening performance (jackpot opening performance pattern) and sets a jackpot opening performance start command to the output buffer of the performance RAM 124 to start the jackpot opening performance with the selected jackpot opening performance pattern.

In step S4315, the presentation control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not a round number designation command has been received from the game control board 100, in other words, whether or not the round number designation command has been stored in the reception buffer. If the round number designation command has not been received (NO in S4315), the process proceeds to step S4317, whereas if the round number designation command has been received (YES in S4315), the round presentation start process associated with the start of round play is performed (S4316).

In the round performance start process, the performance control microcomputer 121 analyzes the round number designation command and determines whether or not to execute a round performance corresponding to the round game that is about to start, and if so, selects the performance content of the round performance (round performance pattern) and sets the round performance start command corresponding to the selected round performance pattern in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124.

In step S4317, the presentation control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not an ending command has been received from the game control board 100, in other words, whether or not the ending command has been stored in the receiving buffer. If an ending command has not been received (NO in S4317), the received command analysis process ends. On the other hand, if an ending command has been received (YES in S4317), the jackpot ending presentation start process (S4318) associated with the start of the ending of the jackpot game and the presentation mode setting process (S4319) are performed before the received command analysis process ends.

In the jackpot ending presentation start process, the presentation control microcomputer 121 analyzes the ending command and determines whether or not to execute a jackpot ending presentation that corresponds to the ending of the jackpot game that is about to be executed, and if so, selects the presentation content of the jackpot ending presentation (jackpot ending presentation pattern) and sets the jackpot ending presentation start command that corresponds to the selected jackpot ending presentation pattern in the output buffer of the presentation RAM 124.

In addition, in the presentation mode setting process, the presentation control microcomputer 121 performs a process to set the presentation mode after a jackpot game (a process to control the presentation mode) based on the analysis result of the ending command, specifically, the jackpot pattern indicated by the ending command.

For example, when the jackpot pattern indicated by the jackpot ending command is jackpot pattern A or jackpot pattern D, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the probability variable presentation mode, which indicates a high probability, high base game state. Then, a presentation mode flag indicating the probability variable presentation mode is turned ON in a specified area of the presentation RAM 124, and a probability variable presentation mode start command indicating that the probability variable presentation mode is set is set in the output buffer of the presentation RAM 124. When the probability variable presentation mode start command set in the output buffer of the presentation RAM 124 is sent to the image control board 140 by the command sending process (S4004), the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 displays the probability variable background image G120 as the background image at the timing when the ending ends, and outputs the probability variable BGM as the BGM.

When the jackpot pattern indicated by the jackpot ending command is jackpot pattern B, jackpot pattern C, or jackpot pattern E, the performance control microcomputer 121 sets a time-saving performance mode in which it is difficult or impossible to distinguish whether the state is a high probability high base game state or a low probability high base game state. The performance control microcomputer 121 then turns on a performance mode flag indicating the time-saving performance mode in a predetermined area of the performance RAM 124, and sets a time-saving performance mode start command indicating that the time-saving performance mode is set in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124. When the time-saving performance mode start command set in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124 is sent to the image control board 140 by the command sending process (S4004), the image control CPU 141 of the image control board 140 displays the time-saving background image G130 as the background image and outputs the time-saving BGM as the BGM at the timing when the ending ends.

First Embodiment
Next, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described based on the basic embodiment of the present invention described above. In the following, the first embodiment will be mainly described with respect to the differences from the basic embodiment. Also, the same reference numerals and terms are used for the same configurations as the basic embodiment or the similar corresponding configurations.

In the pachinko game machine PY1 according to the first embodiment, the presentation (presentation flow configuration presentation) that constitutes the presentation flow of the special chart variation presentation related to the special chart 1 is partially different from the basic embodiment. In other words, the first embodiment is partially different from the basic embodiment in the special chart 1 variation patterns that can be determined in the normal game state and the time-saving state, and the special chart 1 variation pattern determination table related to the normal game state and the time-saving state.

Figure 48 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a special chart 1 variation pattern determination table according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 48, the presentation flow configuration presentation that can be executed in the special chart variation presentation based on the special chart 1 variation pattern that can be determined in the normal game state includes a full rotation reach in addition to the normal variation, reach, N reach, L reach, and SP reach that were included in the basic embodiment. Also, the presentation flow configuration presentation that can be executed in the special chart variation presentation based on the special chart 1 variation pattern that can be determined in the time-saving state includes a special variation in addition to the shortened variation that was included in the basic embodiment.

The full spin reach is executed in an advanced manner immediately after a reach is established (confirmed) after normal fluctuations. The full spin reach can be executed when a jackpot is reached, but is never executed when a miss occurs. In other words, the full spin reach is an effect that suggests that a jackpot game state will be reached. Therefore, the full spin reach is an effect that suggests that there is a higher possibility of a jackpot game state being reached than the L reach or SP reach.

In the full rotation reach, the effect symbols EZ1 to EZ3 that are aligned in a manner indicating a big win are slowly scrolled downward so that the effect symbols G10 that make up the effect symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are sequentially replaced. In addition, as the full rotation reach begins, a background image (full rotation background image) G116 dedicated to the full rotation reach is displayed as a background image on the entire display unit 50a (a video dedicated to the full rotation reach is played). The full rotation background image G116 is composed of a video in which a predetermined story unfolds. The content of the effect related to the full rotation background image G116 can be set appropriately, but for example, it is content related to an encounter between the main character and the director character. In addition, in the first embodiment, the time of the video related to the full rotation background image G116 (full rotation reach time) is set to 120 seconds.

The effect patterns G10 that make up the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 when they are scrolled during a full rotation reach are displayed with a transparency of 70% to 90% compared to normal cases, such as when the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed definitively and stopped. This is to prevent the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 from interfering with the video that is dedicated to the full rotation reach. In the following, the scrolling display in which the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 that make up the full rotation reach are aligned with the same effect pattern G10 and the effect patterns G10 are sequentially switched is referred to as the "full rotation display of effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3". The display mode of the variable display of the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 related to the full rotation display of the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 is sometimes referred to as the "full rotation variable mode".

Also, as shown in Figure 48, the allocation rate for the full rotation reach is 10%. Therefore, the full rotation reach is a rare premium effect.

Special variations can be performed when a jackpot is hit, but are not performed when a miss occurs. In other words, special variations are effects that suggest that a jackpot game state is about to be reached. Therefore, after the display of the special chart 1 variation related to the special variation, the jackpot game will be played.

By the way, the special variation is a performance executed by the special chart variation performance based on the special chart 1 variation pattern in the time-saving state, but in the time-saving state, the game is basically played by hitting from the right, and winning into the first starting hole 11 is not expected. The fact that the special chart variation performance based on the special chart 1 variation pattern is performed in the time-saving state means that it is a timing shortly after the jackpot is won in the normal game state and the jackpot game is executed. In other words, when the jackpot game based on the jackpot winning in the normal game state is executed, there is a special chart 1 reservation corresponding to the special chart 1 variation display related to the special variation. In such a case, in the first embodiment, a full rotation reach is started in the middle of the jackpot game based on the jackpot winning in the normal game state, and the full rotation reach is executed across the special chart 1 variation display related to the special variation and the jackpot game thereafter. Therefore, the special variation is a performance that constitutes a part of the full rotation reach. Also, in the first embodiment, the full rotation reach extends to the jackpot game that is executed immediately after the special chart 1 variation display related to the special variation. Therefore, a full rotation reach will be made across the special chart 1 variation display related to the special variation and the jackpot games before and after the special chart 1 variation display. In the following, the jackpot game played before the special chart 1 variation display related to the special variation will be referred to as the "full rotation pre-stage jackpot game," and the jackpot game played after the special chart 1 variation display related to the special variation will be referred to as the "full rotation post-stage jackpot game."

In the following, the special chart 1 variation pattern ("THP00" in FIG. 48) in which all of the full rotation reach is executed (full rotation reach is completed) in one special chart variation performance in the normal game state is referred to as the "full rotation jackpot variation". On the other hand, the special chart 1 variation pattern ("THP31" in FIG. 48) in which part of the full rotation reach is executed (full rotation reach is not completed) in one special chart variation performance in the time-saving state is referred to as the "special jackpot variation". In addition, the full rotation reach executed in the special chart 1 variation display based on the full rotation jackpot variation is referred to as the "normal full rotation reach", and the full rotation reach executed across the jackpot game and the special chart 1 variation display based on the special jackpot variation is sometimes referred to as the "special full rotation reach". Furthermore, the first look-ahead judgment table is appropriately changed according to the configuration example of the special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table shown in FIG. 48.

In addition, when a jackpot game based on a jackpot win in the normal game state is being played, if there is a special chart 1 reserved for the jackpot, a special full rotation reach will be played, but the special full rotation reach will be played regardless of the reserved order of this special chart 1. If the reserved order of the special chart 1 reserved for the jackpot is reserved order 1, the special chart 1 change display for the special jackpot change will be played immediately after the previous jackpot game ends. On the other hand, if the reserved order of the special chart 1 reserved for the jackpot is any of reserved order 2 to 4, the special chart 1 change display for the miss will be played before the special chart 1 change display for the special jackpot change is played after the previous jackpot game ends, but as shown in Figure 48, only a shortened miss change with a special chart change time of 1 second is set as the special chart 1 change pattern for the miss in the time-saving state. Therefore, even if the reserved order of the special chart 1 related to the jackpot is any of reserved order 2 to reserved order 4, the special chart 1 variation display based on the special jackpot variation will start immediately after the previous jackpot game ends. And in the first embodiment, while the special chart 1 variation display related to the shortened miss variation is being performed, the special full rotation reach will be executed seamlessly and continuously without interruption.

Next, we will explain specific examples of normal full rotation reaches and special full rotation reaches. Figure 49 is an explanatory diagram explaining specific examples of normal full rotation reaches, and Figures 50 to 53 are explanatory diagrams explaining specific examples of special full rotation reaches.

First, the normal full rotation reach will be described. As mentioned above, the normal full rotation reach is executed immediately after a reach is established. For example, as shown in FIG. 49(A), when a reach is established (a reach establishment notification effect is executed), an effect (conversion effect) is executed to change the established reach to a normal full rotation reach, as shown in FIG. 49(B). Specifically, the board movable body 55k is actuated, and an effect image G13 corresponding to the actuation of the board movable body 55k is displayed across the entire display section 50a. The conversion effect is executed for three seconds.

When the conversion effect ends, the full rotation reach starts, and as shown in FIG. 49(C), the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 appear on the entire display unit 50a in a full rotation display (displayed in a full rotation change mode), and the full rotation background image G116 is displayed as a background image. Since the full rotation reach time is set to 120 seconds, when the full rotation reach starts, as shown in FIG. 49(D), the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 continue to be displayed in a full rotation on the display unit 50a until the full rotation reach time has elapsed, and the full rotation background image G116 is displayed. In the full rotation background image G116, the story in the video related to the full rotation background image G116 unfolds. The timing when the video related to the full rotation background image G116 ends corresponds to the timing when the special chart 1 change display related to the full rotation jackpot change ends.

Then, in response to the timing when the special chart 1 variation display related to the full rotation jackpot variation ends, as shown in FIG. 49(E), the video related to the full rotation background image G116 ends and the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are definitively displayed as stopped in a manner indicating a jackpot.

In addition, in the display unit 50a, the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 start to change in response to the start of the special chart 1 change display related to the full rotation jackpot change, and in response to the start of the special chart 1 change display related to the full rotation jackpot change, the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 are displayed stopped in a manner indicating a jackpot (see Figure 49).

Next, we will explain the special full rotation reach. As mentioned above, the special full rotation reach is performed on the condition that the special full rotation special chart 1 reservation exists when a jackpot game based on a jackpot win in normal game mode is started. Here, we will assume that in normal game mode, the jackpot pattern B is stopped and a second jackpot game is executed as a first stage jackpot game, and when the second jackpot game starts, there is a special chart 1 reservation related to a miss as the special chart 1 reservation in reservation order 1, and there is a special chart 1 reservation related to a jackpot as the special chart 1 reservation in reservation order 2.

In the first embodiment, as a round effect, a round background image G201 is displayed on the entire display unit 50a, and a right-hit image G2 and a round image G3 are displayed superimposed on the round background image G201. Also, the stopped display of small symbols KZ1 to KZ3, which indicate a jackpot related to the jackpot game, is continuously performed superimposed on the round background image G201.

For example, as shown in FIG. 50(A), in the middle of the fourth round of play in the second jackpot game, in other words, when 15 seconds have passed since the start of the fourth round of play, as shown in FIG. 50(B), the first button operation promotion effect image G12 is displayed and the first button operation promotion effect is executed, and an effective operation period for the first effect button 40k occurs. Note that the effective operation time for the first effect button 40k here, in other words the performance time of the first button operation promotion effect (first button operation promotion effect time), can be set appropriately, but is set to 4 seconds here.

When the first button operation prompting effect is being executed, if the first button operation prompting effect is operated, as shown in FIG. 50(C), the first button operation prompting effect ends and the entire display unit 50a is displayed in black (blacked out) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 3 seconds), and the effect goes dark. Here, if there is a special chart 1 reserved for a jackpot, a special full rotation reach begins. On the other hand, if there is no special chart 1 reserved for a jackpot, the special full rotation reach does not begin, and the state returns to the state before the first button operation prompting effect was executed, and the round effect resumes.

Here, it is assumed that there is a special chart 1 reserved for a big win, so a special full rotation reach begins. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 50 (D-1), a full rotation background image G116 is displayed on the entire display unit 50a. In other words, the background image switches from the round background image G201 to the full rotation background image G116 at the beginning of the first button operation promotion effect. Furthermore, as a special full rotation reach, the full rotation display effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 appear superimposed on the full rotation background image G116. Note that the display of the full rotation background image G116 begins in the same way as in the normal full rotation reach. In other words, the story related to the video that constitutes the full rotation background image G116 unfolds from the beginning.

Even if the special full rotation reach is executed, the effects related to the big win game are executed partially. In other words, by executing the special full rotation reach, the effects related to the big win game are executed in a limited manner. By "partially" and "limitedly," we mean that the round background image G201 is not displayed, but the right hit image G2 and round image G3 are displayed, and the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 are displayed in a manner indicating a big win. Also, as will be described later, when the special full rotation reach is executed, the ending background image G202, the ending image G5, and the total winning ball count image G6 are not displayed at the ending.

If there is no reserved special chart 1 related to a jackpot when the first button operation prompting effect is started, as shown in FIG. 50 (D-2), the round background image G201 is displayed, the state returns to the state before the first button operation prompting effect was executed, and the round effect resumes.

In addition, if the first button operation prompt button 40k is not operated between the start of the first button operation prompt performance and the first button operation prompt performance time (4 seconds) has elapsed, the first button operation prompt performance will end as the first button operation prompt performance time (4 seconds) has elapsed, and the performance will go dark in the same way as if the first performance button 40k had been pressed. Then, in the same way as if the first performance button 40k had been pressed, if there is a special chart 1 reserved for a jackpot, a special full rotation reach will start, whereas if there is no special chart 1 reserved for a jackpot, the round performance will resume.

When the special full rotation reach is started, the full rotation display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 continues regardless of the progress of the jackpot game, and the display of the full rotation background image G116 progresses. On the other hand, the display of the round image G3 is performed according to the progress of the jackpot game. Therefore, for example, when the jackpot game progresses from the situation in Figure 50 (D-1) and the fifth round game starts, the number portion indicated by the round image G3 becomes "5" as shown in Figure 51 (A).

Furthermore, as the jackpot game progresses and the fifth round, which is the last round of the second jackpot game, ends and the game enters the ending, the round image G3 disappears as shown in FIG. 51(B). Also, in the ending, if the special full rotation reach is not being achieved, for example, as shown in FIG. 18(C), the ending background image G202, the ending image G5, and the total number of winning balls image G6 are displayed, but if the special full rotation reach is being achieved, these are not displayed. Note that while the round game is being played and in the ending, the right hit image G2 is displayed continuously, and the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 are displayed in a stopped state indicative of a jackpot.

Next, when the second jackpot game ends, the game transitions to a high probability high base game state, and then the special chart change display according to the high probability high base game state starts, but here, the special chart 1 reservation in reservation order 1 is assumed to be a special chart 1 reservation related to a miss. And, as shown in FIG. 48, the only special chart 1 change pattern related to a miss that can be determined in the time-saving state is the shortened miss change, so as soon as the second jackpot game ends, the special chart 1 change display related to the shortened miss change starts.

As mentioned above, the special full rotation reach begins roughly halfway through the fourth round of play. Based on the fact that the opening time of the large prize winning port 14 during one round of play is 29.5 seconds, the closing time excluding the final round of play is 2.0 seconds, and the ending time is 15.0 seconds (see FIG. 15(A)), approximately 60 seconds have passed since the start of the special full rotation reach until the end of the second jackpot game. Meanwhile, the full rotation reach time is 120 seconds. Therefore, when the second jackpot game as the pre-stage jackpot game ends, the special full rotation reach will have progressed approximately halfway. That is, when the special full rotation reach has progressed to about halfway, the game status switches from the second jackpot game as the pre-stage jackpot game to the special chart 1 variable display related to the shortened miss variation, but at this time, as shown in FIG. 51 (C), the display of the full rotation background image G116 and the full rotation display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 continue to proceed without interruption. That is, the display of the full rotation background image G116 and the full rotation display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 continue to be executed across the second jackpot game as the pre-stage jackpot game and the special chart 1 variable display related to the shortened miss variation. However, in response to the start of the special chart 1 variable display related to the shortened miss variation, the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 that were stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a jackpot in the second jackpot game start to display the variable.

The special chart change time for the shortened miss change related to special chart 1 is 1.0 second, so when 1.0 second has passed since the start of the special chart 1 change display, the special chart 1 change display ends and the special chart 1 stop display in a mode indicating a miss is performed, and accordingly, as shown in FIG. 51 (D), the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 are also displayed stopped in a mode indicating a miss appropriately. Note that when the special chart 1 change display related to the shortened miss change started, approximately 60 seconds had passed since the start of the special full rotation reach, so when the special chart 1 stop display in a mode indicating a miss is performed, another 1.0 second has passed since the start of the special rotation reach. Therefore, at this point, the full rotation reach has only progressed halfway.

Following the display of the special chart 1 stop in a state indicating a miss, the display of the special chart 1 change based on the special chart 1 reservation related to the jackpot starts, but as shown in FIG. 48, the only special chart 1 change pattern related to the jackpot that can be determined in the time-saving state is the special jackpot change, so as soon as the display of the special chart 1 stop in a state indicating a miss ends, the display of the special chart 1 change related to the special jackpot change starts. And here too, as in the case of switching from the second jackpot game to the special chart 1 change display related to the shortened miss change, as shown in FIG. 51 (E), when the display of the special chart 1 change related to the special jackpot change starts, the display of the full rotation background image G116 and the full rotation display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 continue without interruption. That is, the display of the full rotation background image G116 and the full rotation display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 continue to be executed across the special chart 1 change display related to the shortened miss change and the special chart 1 change display related to the special jackpot change. However, when the special symbol 1 change display related to the special big win change starts, the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 that were displayed in a stopped state indicating a miss will start to change display.

The special chart change time for the special big win change is 30.0 seconds, so when 30.0 seconds have passed since the start of the special chart 1 change display, the special chart 1 change display ends and the special chart 1 stop display in a mode indicating a big win is performed, and accordingly, as shown in FIG. 52(A), the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed stopped in a mode appropriately indicating a big win, and the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 are also displayed stopped. Note that when the special chart 1 change display for the special big win change started, approximately 61 seconds had passed since the start of the special full rotation reach, so at the time the special chart 1 stop display in a mode indicating a big win was performed, approximately 91 seconds had passed since the start of the special full rotation reach. Therefore, even at this point, the special full rotation reach has only progressed halfway.

Following the display of the special chart 1 in a state indicating a jackpot, the later stage jackpot game starts, but the jackpot pattern type here is jackpot pattern A, and it is assumed that the first jackpot game starts as the later stage jackpot game. Here, as in the case of switching from the special chart 1 variation display related to the shortened miss variation to the special chart 1 variation display related to the special jackpot variation, as shown in FIG. 52 (B), when the first jackpot game as the later stage jackpot game starts, the display of the full rotation background image G116 continues to proceed without interruption. That is, the display of the full rotation background image G116 continues to be executed across the special chart 1 variation display related to the special jackpot variation and the first jackpot game as the later stage jackpot game. However, here, the full rotation display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 does not continue. That is, the full rotation display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 ends in response to the end of the special chart 1 variation display related to the special jackpot variation that is the target of the special full rotation reach.

The opening begins when the first jackpot game is started as the second jackpot game, but because a special full rotation reach is being performed, the opening background image G200 and opening image G1 as shown in FIG. 18(A) are not displayed, as in the ending of the first jackpot game. In other words, the effects related to the jackpot game are partially executed even in the second jackpot game.

The full rotation background image G116 continues to be displayed until the end. When the first jackpot game as the latter-stage jackpot game starts, approximately 91 seconds have passed since the start of the special full rotation reach, meaning that the remaining time of the special full rotation reach is approximately 29 seconds. Here, based on the fact that the opening time of the first jackpot game is 10 seconds and the opening time of one round game is 29.5 seconds, the full rotation background image G116 continues to be displayed until the middle of the first round game. Then, for example, when the opening ends and the first round game starts from the situation shown in FIG. 52(B), a round image G3 showing the first round is displayed superimposed on the full rotation background image G116, as shown in FIG. 52(C).

After that, in the first round of play, when the full rotation reach time has elapsed since the start of the special full rotation reach, the entire display unit 50a gradually turns white (whites out), and finally, as shown in FIG. 53(A), the full rotation background image G116 disappears, ending the special full rotation reach. Then, when a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed from the situation shown in FIG. 53(A), the entire white display of the display unit 50a gradually disappears, and as shown in FIG. 53(B), the background image (round background image) G201 corresponding to the round play of the first jackpot game is displayed as the background image on the display unit 50a, and the performance related to the normal first jackpot game begins. Then, after that, the performance related to the first jackpot game is played out as usual, without the full rotation reach being executed.

For example, when a jackpot game is started, the game control microcomputer 101 performs a look-ahead judgment on the special reserved pattern that exists at that time based on the game state to which the game will be transitioned after the jackpot game ends, and resends a start winning command that reflects the result of the look-ahead judgment. The performance control microcomputer 121 then overwrites the resent start winning command with the previously stored start winning command related to the same special reserved pattern. In this way, the performance control microcomputer 121 can determine whether or not a special reserved pattern 1 corresponding to a special jackpot variation exists in a jackpot game related to a jackpot win based on the normal game state.

As described above, the pachinko game machine PY1 performs a judgment related to the special chart 1, including a jackpot judgment as to whether the result is a jackpot (specific result) or a miss (non-specific result) (jackpot judgment, jackpot pattern type judgment, special chart 1 variation pattern judgment: main judgment), and if the result of the judgment related to the special chart 1 is a jackpot (specific result), a jackpot game (specific game advantageous to the player) is executed by the game control microcomputer 101 (game execution means), and a performance control microcomputer 121 (performance control means) that may execute a performance on the display unit 50a. The microcomputer 121 for controlling the performance (performance execution means) may, when a judgment related to the special chart 1 is made, display the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) in the display unit 50a in a variable manner, and then display them in a stopped manner in a manner that suggests the result of the judgment related to the special chart 1. The microcomputer 121 for controlling the performance may start displaying the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) in a variable manner when the special chart 1 reserved for the jackpot exists (a specific condition is established) in a jackpot game (specific game). Therefore, the player is surprised and given a sense of expectation for a new jackpot, which increases the interest in the game. Also, according to the pachinko game machine PY1, when the right to make a judgment related to special chart 1 is obtained (special chart 1 reservation has occurred) and it is not possible to make a judgment related to special chart 1 based on said right, the game control microcomputer 101 (game execution means) is able to reserve the right to make a judgment related to special chart 1, and when the performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) starts the varying display of performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) in a jackpot game (specific game), it continues to execute the started varying display of performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) until a predetermined timing after the jackpot game (specific game) has ended, thereby sustaining the anticipation of a new jackpot. Furthermore, according to the pachinko game machine PY1, when the game control microcomputer 101 (game execution means) has obtained the right to make a judgment (main judgment) related to the special chart 1, the game control microcomputer 101 (game execution means) may make a pre-reading judgment (pre-judgment) including a judgment of whether it is a jackpot (specific result) or a miss (non-specific result) before making a judgment (main judgment) related to the special chart 1, and when the performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) starts the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) in a jackpot game (specific game), after the judgment (main judgment) related to the special chart 1 corresponding to the right to make a judgment (main judgment) related to the special chart 1 that led to the start is made, the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) that has been started is stopped and displayed in a manner that suggests the result of the judgment (main judgment) related to the special chart 1, so that the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) started in the jackpot game (specific game) can be made to have a sharper effect.

In addition, the pachinko game machine PY1 is equipped with a game control microcomputer 101 (game execution means) that can make a jackpot determination (first determination) of whether to make a jackpot (specific result) or a miss (non-specific result), and a presentation control microcomputer 121 (presentation execution means) that may execute presentations on the display unit 50a. The game control microcomputer 101 (game execution means) makes a pre-reading determination (first determination) of whether to make a jackpot (specific result) or a miss (non-specific result) ( The microcomputer 121 for controlling the performance (performance execution means) may perform a variable performance in which the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) are displayed in a variable manner based on the result of the jackpot determination (first determination), and then the display mode of the variable display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) is executed when the result of the jackpot determination (first determination) related to the variable performance is a jackpot (specific result), but may not be executed when the result of the jackpot determination (first determination) related to the variable performance is a miss. There is a full rotation variation mode (special variation mode) that is not executed in the case of (non-specific result), and when the result of the jackpot determination (first determination) is a jackpot (specific result), the performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) displays the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) in a full rotation variation mode (special variation mode) after the start of the variation performance based on the result of the jackpot determination (first determination), and may display a full rotation background image G116 (special image) corresponding to the full rotation variation mode (special variation mode) when the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) are displayed in a full rotation variation mode (special variation mode), and when the result of the look-ahead determination (second determination) is a jackpot (specific result), the display unit 50a may display the full rotation background image G116 (special image) before the jackpot determination (first determination) corresponding to the look-ahead determination (second determination) is performed, so that the player is surprised and given a sense of expectation for a new jackpot, which increases the interest in the game.

(Modification of the first embodiment)
Next, modified examples of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to the first embodiment will be described. Note that the modified examples described below can be appropriately combined with each other.

In the pre-stage jackpot game, the full rotation display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 is performed as in the case of the normal full rotation reach, but in the pre-stage jackpot game, the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 may not be displayed, and the full rotation display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 may not be performed. Alternatively, in the pre-stage jackpot game, for example, the full rotation display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 with a higher transparency than in the case of the normal full rotation reach, the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 that are smaller than in the case of the normal full rotation reach, or the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 that are thinner than in the case of the normal full rotation reach may be performed. Furthermore, in the pre-stage jackpot game, for example, the left performance symbol EZ1 composed of the character "zen", the middle performance symbol EZ2 composed of the character "kai", and the right performance symbol EZ3 composed of the character "ten" may be displayed slowly scrolling like a full rotation display in a state where they are aligned. In other words, a slow scrolling display like a full rotation display may be performed using a special effect pattern that is not used in the normal changing display of the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3. This is to prevent the player from mistaking that a special pattern changing display is being performed.

Furthermore, the start timing of the special full rotation reach may be changed as appropriate. For example, the start timing of the special full rotation reach may be changed to the start of the opening of the previous jackpot game, a specific timing during the opening, or the start of the first round of play. Also, multiple timings at which the special full rotation reach can be started may be set, and the start timing of the special full rotation reach may be determined by a predetermined judgment each time it is decided that the special full rotation reach will be executed. Alternatively, the start timing of the special full rotation reach may be made different depending on the type of jackpot game.

Also, in both the first stage jackpot game and the second stage jackpot game, or in either one of them, the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3 may not be displayed in a stopped state that indicates a jackpot.

Furthermore, the special full rotation reach may be ended in response to the end of the special jackpot fluctuation, so that the special full rotation reach is not performed in the jackpot game related to the special jackpot fluctuation (later jackpot game).

In addition, in the first embodiment, only the special jackpot variation that allows the full spin reach to be executed is set as the special chart 1 variation pattern in the time-saving state, but in addition to this, a jackpot variation that does not allow the full spin reach to be executed can also be set, and when a jackpot game based on a jackpot win in the normal game state is being executed, there is a special chart 1 reservation related to the jackpot, but in this case, it is also possible to have times when the special full spin reach is executed and times when the special full spin reach is not executed.

In addition, in a jackpot game, there may be cases where the special full rotation reach can be executed and cases where the special full rotation reach cannot be executed. For example, the special full rotation reach can be executed in a jackpot game with a relatively small number of rounds, but the special full rotation reach cannot be executed in a jackpot game with a relatively large number of rounds. Conversely, the special full rotation reach can be executed in a jackpot game with a relatively large number of rounds, but the special full rotation reach cannot be executed in a jackpot game with a relatively small number of rounds. In other words, the possibility of executing the special full rotation reach may be set based on the number of rounds. Furthermore, the possibility of executing the special full rotation reach may be set based on the type of jackpot performance pattern, such as not being able to execute the special full rotation reach in a jackpot game when the jackpot performance pattern is a red pattern, but being able to execute the special full rotation reach in a jackpot game when the jackpot performance pattern is a blue pattern. Alternatively, the possibility of executing the special full spin reach may be set based on the type of presentation mode to which the mode is transitioned after a jackpot game, such that if the mode transitions to a probability variation presentation mode after a jackpot game, the special full spin reach cannot be executed in the jackpot game, but if the mode transitions to a time-saving presentation mode after a jackpot game, the special full spin reach can be executed in the jackpot game.

In the first embodiment, the display mode in which the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed in a jackpot game is only the full rotation display, but other display modes may be used for the display. For example, as the special chart 1 change pattern in the time-saving state, there is a jackpot change (special SP jackpot change) corresponding to the part after the SP reach of the special chart change performance related to the SP jackpot change, and a miss change (special SP miss change) corresponding to the part after the SP reach of the special chart change performance related to the SP miss change, and when the jackpot game starts, if there is a special chart 1 reservation related to the special SP jackpot change or a special chart 1 reservation related to the special SP miss change as the special chart 1 reservation in the reservation order 1, the display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 may be performed in the jackpot game. In this case, the display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 may be, for example, a display without the middle performance symbol EZ1 in the full rotation display. In other words, when the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 are aligned with the same performance pattern G10, the type of performance pattern G10 may be displayed by slowly scrolling from top to bottom so that it is changed in sequence. Then, when the big win game ends and the special pattern 1 reservation related to the special SP big win variation or the special pattern 1 variation display based on the special pattern 1 reservation related to the special miss variation starts in the time-saving state, the display unit 50a may be configured to establish a reach with any type of performance pattern G10 in the flow of the scroll display and develop into an SP reach as it is. However, as the performance in the big win game in this case, a normal big win game performance may be performed by displaying a round background image G201 in the round game of the big win game, or a dedicated background image may be displayed in this case as in the case of the special full rotation reach. Furthermore, in this case, the probability of a miss and the probability of a jackpot may be different, such as being more likely to win than to miss, or the probability of a miss and the probability of a jackpot may be the same.

The special full rotation reach was performed during the special chart 1 change display and the jackpot play before and after the special chart 1 change display, but the special full rotation reach may also be performed during the special chart 2 change display and the jackpot play before and after the special chart 2 change display.

In addition, in the first embodiment, the full rotation reach (special full rotation reach) starts from the jackpot game (pre-stage jackpot game) before the special chart change performance based on the special chart 1 change (special jackpot change) related to the full rotation reach is performed, in other words, the full rotation reach is executed prior to the jackpot game, but the game content before the special chart change performance is performed is not limited to the jackpot game, and may be a special chart change display.

For example, the special chart 2 variation patterns in the normal game state may include those in which a full rotation reach can be executed (specific special chart 2 variation patterns) and those in which a full rotation reach cannot be executed (non-specific special chart 2 variation patterns). Then, when the special chart 2 variation display (high base final variation) is performed a specified number of times for time reduction without a jackpot after transitioning to a low probability high base game state, if there is a special chart 2 reserve corresponding to the specific special chart 2 variation pattern, a full rotation reach is started when the special chart variation performance related to the high base final variation is being executed, and a full rotation reach is executed across the high base final variation and the specific special chart 2 variation pattern, and if there is no special chart 2 reserve corresponding to the specific special chart 2 variation pattern, a full rotation reach may not be started when the special chart variation performance related to the high base final variation is being executed.

A specific example of this case will be described with reference to FIG. 54. For example, in the final stage of the special chart variation performance based on the high base final variation, as shown in FIG. 54(A), when a result image G30 indicating the number of jackpots from the so-called "first win" to this point and the number of prize balls acquired in the jackpot game is displayed superimposed on the time-saving background image G130, as shown in FIG. 54(B), the first button operation promotion performance image G12 is displayed, the first button operation promotion performance is executed, and the operation valid period for the first performance button 40k is generated. When the first button operation promotion performance is executed, as shown in FIG. 54(C), the first button operation promotion performance ends and the entire display unit 50a is displayed in black (blacked out) for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds), and the performance is darkened.

And, if there is no special chart 2 reservation corresponding to the specific special chart 2 variation pattern in reservation order 1, as shown in FIG. 54 (D-1), the special chart variation presentation based on the high base final variation is resumed, and the part after the situation shown in FIG. 54 (B) is performed. Specifically, the first normal background image G111 is displayed on the entire display unit 50a, and the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3, which are temporarily stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a miss, are displayed superimposed on the first normal background image G111, and according to the end of the high base final variation, the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3, which are temporarily stopped, are displayed as they are, and the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 are displayed in a manner indicating a miss. At this time, the game transitions to the normal game state. Then, if there is a special chart 2 reserve corresponding to a non-specific special chart 2 variation pattern, in response to the start of the special chart 2 variation display in the normal game state, the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 and the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 that were stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a miss will start to vary, and an image (left hit image) G31 notifying a left hit will be displayed.

On the other hand, if a special chart 2 reservation corresponding to the specific special chart 2 variation pattern exists in reservation order 1, the full rotation reach starts from the special chart variation performance based on the high base final variation. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 54 (D-2), the full rotation background image G116 is displayed on the entire display unit 50a. In other words, the background image switches from the time-saving background image G130 to the full rotation background image G116 at the first button operation promotion performance. Furthermore, as a special full rotation reach, the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 that are displayed in full rotation appear superimposed on the full rotation background image G116. Note that the display of the full rotation background image G116 starts in the same way as in the case of a normal full rotation reach. In other words, the story related to the video that constitutes the full rotation background image G116 is developed from the beginning. Then, in response to the end of the high base final variation, the small patterns KZ1 to KZ3 are displayed stopped in a manner indicating a miss.

When the special chart 2 variable display based on the specific special chart 2 variable pattern starts, as shown in FIG. 54 (D-2), the small symbols KZ1 to KZ3, which had been displayed in a stopped state indicating a miss, start to display a variable display, but the display of the full rotation background image G116 and the full rotation display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 continue without interruption. After this, at least in the special chart 2 variable display based on the specific special chart 2 variable pattern, the display of the full rotation background image G116 and the full rotation display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 continue to be executed.

In the case shown in FIG. 54, for example, when the high base final variation starts, the game control microcomputer 101 performs a look-ahead judgment on the special chart reserve that exists at that time based on the normal game state to which the high base final variation will be transitioned after the high base final variation ends, and resends a start winning command that reflects the result of the look-ahead judgment. Then, the performance control microcomputer 121 overwrites the resent start winning command with the previously stored start winning command related to the same special chart reserve. In this way, the performance control microcomputer 121 can determine whether or not there is a special chart 2 reserve corresponding to a specific special chart 2 variation pattern or a special chart 2 reserve corresponding to a non-specific special chart 2 variation pattern in the special chart 2 variation display (high base final variation) in the low probability high base game state.

Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described based on the basic embodiment of the present invention described above. In the following, the second embodiment will be mainly described with respect to the differences from the basic embodiment. Also, the same reference numerals and terms are used for the same configurations as the basic embodiment or the similar corresponding configurations.

In the basic embodiment, in the normal game state and in the normal presentation mode, as the presentation flow constituting the presentation flow related to the special chart variation presentation (presentation flow constituent presentation), normal variation, a reach that suggests that the possibility of a game state advantageous to the player is higher than normal variation, and various reach presentations, specifically, N reach, L reach, and SP reach, could be executed. In the pachinko game machine PY2 according to the second embodiment, in the special chart variation presentation corresponding to the special chart 1 variation display in the normal game state and in the normal presentation mode, apart from the presentation flow constituent presentations such as reach and various reach presentations, a notice presentation that suggests that a game state advantageous to the player may be entered, in other words, a notice presentation that, when executed, increases the expectation of a game state advantageous to the player (chance up) may be executed.

In the second embodiment, a preview performance in which the stage associated with the preview performance can progress (step up) may be executed. This preview performance in which the stage can progress (step up) is executed by displaying an image on the display unit 50a when normal fluctuations are being performed. Note that, hereinafter, a preview performance in which the stage can progress (step up) may also be referred to as a "step-up preview."

There are five stages associated with the step-up notice, from stage 1 to stage 5. In the second embodiment, the step-up notice starts from stage 1, and there are cases where the stage does not evolve thereafter, and cases where the stage evolves thereafter. If the stage does not evolve, the step-up notice that started from stage 1 ends at stage 1. On the other hand, if the stage evolves, the step-up notice that started from stage 1 may eventually evolve to stage 2, stage 3, stage 4, or stage 5.

The stage at which the step-up notice ends is called the "final stage number." The final stage number related to the step-up notice is associated with the possibility and expectation of a jackpot (jackpot expectation) in the special chart 1 variable display in which the step-up notice is being executed. In the second embodiment, the jackpot expectation associated with the final stage number increases in the following order: first stage < second stage < third stage < fourth stage < fifth stage.

In the following, a step-up notice whose final stage number is the first stage will be referred to as the "first step-up notice." Similarly, a step-up notice whose final stage number is the second stage will be referred to as the "second step-up notice," a step-up notice whose final stage number is the third stage will be referred to as the "third step-up notice," a step-up notice whose final stage number is the fourth stage will be referred to as the "fourth step-up notice," and a step-up notice whose final stage number is the fifth stage will be referred to as the "fifth step-up notice." In other words, there are five types of step-up notices (step-up notice types) associated with the final stage numbers: the first step-up notice to the fifth step-up notice.

In addition, when stages progress in the step-up preview, there are two development patterns: normal development pattern and special development pattern. In the normal development pattern, the stage progresses by one. On the other hand, in the special development pattern, the stage progresses by two or more. For one final stage number, multiple development paths can be taken by combining normal development patterns and special development patterns. The display content differs between normal development patterns and special development patterns, as will be described in detail later.

In the second embodiment, the step-up notice starts from the first stage. Therefore, the stage development path in the second step-up notice is only one type, which is a pattern of development from the first stage to the second stage depending on the normal development pattern. On the other hand, the stage development path in the third step-up notice, the fourth step-up notice, and the fifth step-up notice has multiple types depending on the normal development pattern and the special development pattern. Here, the stage development path patterns in the second step-up notice, the third step-up notice, the fourth step-up notice, and the fifth step-up notice will be explained.

As mentioned above, the only development path pattern that can occur in the second step-up announcement (second development path pattern) is the pattern where the first stage progresses to the second stage via the normal development pattern (second development path pattern A).

Possible development path patterns (third development path pattern) that can occur in the third step-up announcement include a pattern where the first stage develops to the second stage via the normal development pattern, and the second stage develops to the third stage via the normal development pattern (third development path pattern A), and a pattern where the first stage develops to the third stage via the special development pattern (third development path pattern B).

Possible development path patterns (fourth development path pattern) that can occur in the fourth step-up announcement include a pattern where the first stage develops to the second stage via the normal development pattern, the second stage develops to the third stage via the normal development pattern, and the third stage develops to the fourth stage via the normal development pattern (fourth development path pattern A), a pattern where the first stage develops to the second stage via the normal development pattern, and the second stage develops to the fourth stage via the special development pattern (fourth development path pattern B), a pattern where the first stage develops to the third stage via the special development pattern, and the third stage develops to the fourth stage via the normal development pattern (fourth development path pattern C), and a pattern where the first stage develops to the fourth stage via the special development pattern (fourth development path pattern D).

The development path patterns (fifth development path pattern) that can occur in the fifth step-up announcement include a pattern where the first stage develops to the second stage through a normal development pattern, the second stage develops to the third stage through a normal development pattern, and the third stage develops to the fifth stage through a special development pattern (fifth development path pattern A), a pattern where the first stage develops to the second stage through a normal development pattern, and the second stage develops to the fifth stage through a special development pattern (fifth development path pattern B), a pattern where the first stage develops to the third stage through a special development pattern, and the third stage develops to the fifth stage through a special development pattern (fifth development path pattern C), and a pattern where the first stage develops to the fifth stage through a special development pattern (fifth development path pattern D).

In this way, the third step-up notice, the fourth step-up notice, and the fifth step-up notice have a multi-stage development path pattern using a normal development pattern and a special development pattern. Also, in the second embodiment, it is set up so that development to the fifth stage is possible using a special development pattern, but not possible using a normal development pattern. However, it may be changed so that development to the fifth stage can be achieved from the fourth stage using a normal development pattern.

The stages (first stage to fifth stage) related to the step-up notice are associated with images. Figure 55 shows the images associated with each stage. The images (stage images) G40 associated with the stages include an image (first stage image) G40A (Figure 55(A)) associated with the first stage, an image (second stage image) G40B (Figure 55(B)) associated with the second stage, an image (third stage image) G40C (Figure 55(C)) associated with the fourth stage (fourth stage image) G40D (Figure 55(D)) and an image (fifth stage image) G40E (Figure 55(E)) associated with the fifth stage. That is, the stages are represented by stage images G40.

In the step-up preview, when the first stage image G40A is displayed, the player is in the first stage, when the second stage image G40B is displayed, the player is in the second stage, when the third stage image G40C is displayed, the player is in the third stage, when the fourth stage image G40D is displayed, the player is in the fourth stage, and when the fifth stage image G40E is displayed, the player is in the fifth stage.

The first stage image G40A to the fifth stage image G40E are all based on a horizontally long rectangular window, with a front bust-up appearance of a different character displayed in the center of each window. In other words, a type of character is associated with each stage. Specifically, character A is associated with the first stage, character B with the second stage, character C with the third stage, character D with the fourth stage, and character E with the fifth stage. The first stage image G40A to the fifth stage image G40E are displayed superimposed on the normal background images G111 to G113 and the varying performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3.

Also, when a step-up preview is being executed, two or more of the first stage image G40A through the fifth stage image G40E are never displayed at the same time. Throughout one step-up preview, two or more of the first stage image G40A through the fifth stage image G40E may be displayed sequentially at different time periods, but at each instant in time, only one of the first stage image G40A through the fifth stage image G40E is displayed. The stage associated with the one of the first stage image G40A through the fifth stage image G40E that is being displayed is the stage in which you are currently present.

Next, we will explain the display contents related to the normal development pattern and the special development pattern.

When progressing through stages using the normal progression pattern, first the stage image G40 associated with the stage from which the progression is to be made that is currently displayed disappears, and after one second has elapsed, the stage image G40 associated with the next higher stage is displayed.

In the second embodiment, in the stage development according to the normal development pattern, the time from when the stage image G40 corresponding to each stage, in other words the stage image G40 corresponding to the first stage and the stage to which the development is to be made, is displayed until it is erased is set to 1 second. In other words, the time spent in the stage that is the source of development in the normal development pattern (normal stay time) is 1 second. However, the normal stage display time is not particularly limited and may be changed as appropriate.

In addition, in the development of a stage by a normal development pattern, the time from when the stage image G40 corresponding to the stage from which the stage is developed disappears until the stage image G40 corresponding to the stage to which the stage is developed is displayed is set to one second. In the development of a stage by a normal development pattern, the display content of the stage image G40, in other words the stage to which the stage is developed, can be recognized the moment the stage image G40 corresponding to the stage to which the stage is developed is displayed, so the time required for development by a normal development pattern (normal development time) is one second. However, the normal development time is not particularly limited and may be changed as appropriate.

In the development of a stage by a special development pattern, an image including a stage image G40 corresponding to the stage from which the special development pattern is developed is displayed on the front side, and an image including a stage image G40 corresponding to the stage to which the special development pattern is developed is displayed on the back side. The display unit 50a displays an image of an imaginary monitor that rotates slowly 180 degrees counterclockwise in a plan view with a vertical line passing through the center of the left-right direction of the display unit 50a as the rotation axis. Here, the display content displayed on the entire display unit 50a at the start of the development of a stage by the special development pattern constitutes the surface of the imaginary monitor. Then, the display content in which the stage image G40 corresponding to the stage to which the special development pattern is developed is replaced with the stage image G40 corresponding to the stage to which the special development pattern is developed constitutes the back side of the imaginary monitor. Note that the rotation of the imaginary monitor, in other words, the development of a stage by a special development pattern, begins one second after the display of the stage image G40 from which the special development pattern is developed. In other words, the time spent in the stage to which the special development pattern is developed (special stay time) is one second. However, the special stay time is not particularly limited and may be changed as appropriate.

When the rotation of the imaginary monitor, which constitutes the stage development according to the special development pattern, begins, the visible range of the front of the imaginary monitor gradually decreases. Then, when the rotation angle of the imaginary monitor reaches 90 degrees, the left side of the imaginary monitor faces exactly forward, and the front of the imaginary monitor becomes completely invisible. However, as the rotation of the imaginary monitor continues, the visible range of the back of the imaginary monitor gradually expands. Immediately after the rotation angle of the imaginary monitor exceeds 90 degrees, it is difficult to recognize which stage is associated with the stage image G40 being displayed, but as the rotation continues, that stage image G40 gradually becomes visible. Then, when the rotation angle of the imaginary monitor reaches 180 degrees, the back of the imaginary monitor faces completely forward, and the stage development according to the special development pattern ends.

The 180-degree rotation of the imaginary monitor is performed at a constant speed without stopping. The time required for the imaginary monitor to rotate 180 degrees is set to 6 seconds. In other words, the time required for development according to the special development pattern (special development time) is 6 seconds. However, the development time is not particularly limited and may be changed as appropriate.

Because the imaginary monitor rotates at a constant speed, the rotation angle of the imaginary monitor reaches 90 degrees 3 seconds after it starts, and 3 seconds later (6 seconds after it starts), the rotation angle of the imaginary monitor reaches 180 degrees. Then, when 4 to 4.5 seconds have passed since the imaginary monitor started to rotate, in other words, when 1 to 1.5 seconds have passed since the back side of the imaginary monitor started to become visible, the display content of the stage image G40 associated with that back side, i.e., the stage to which it will progress, becomes recognizable. The period until the stage image G40 associated with the stage to which it will progress in this kind of imaginary monitor rotation becomes recognizable can be positioned as a period that teases which stage it will progress to.

In addition, on the display unit 50a, a display process is performed as if a fictional monitor is rotating, and during the rotation of the fictional monitor, the portion regarded as the front of the fictional monitor gradually shrinks, and the portion regarded as the back of the fictional monitor gradually expands. In the following, the entire display unit 50a where stage development using a special development pattern is not taking place is referred to as the "normal display area", and the portion forming the front and back of the fictional monitor on the display unit 50a when stage development using a special development pattern is taking place is sometimes referred to as the "special display area". In addition, the portion of the display unit 50a excluding the special display area when stage development using a special development pattern is taking place is sometimes referred to as the "non-special display area".

Next, a specific example of a step-up notice will be described. Figure 56 is an explanatory diagram explaining a third step-up notice that develops to the third stage in the third development path pattern A, and Figures 57 and 58 are explanatory diagrams explaining a third step-up notice that develops to the third stage in the third development path pattern B.

First, the third step-up notice, which progresses to the third stage using the third development path pattern A, will be described. As shown in FIG. 56(A), when the step-up notice starts while the display of the variations (normal variations) of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 is being performed, first, as shown in FIG. 56(B), the first stage image G40A associated with the first stage is displayed approximately in the center of the display unit 50a. Here, the stage progresses using the third development path pattern A, so it then progresses to the second stage using the normal development pattern. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 56(C), the first stage image G40A disappears one second after it is displayed, and when one second has passed, the second stage image G40B associated with the second stage is displayed approximately in the center of the display unit 50a, as shown in FIG. 56(D).

Next, the image will progress to the third stage according to the normal development pattern, so that the second stage image G40B disappears one second after it is displayed, as shown in FIG. 56(E), and one second later, the third stage image G40C associated with the third stage is displayed approximately in the center of the display unit 50a, as shown in FIG. 56(F). This means that the step-up notice has progressed to the third stage. And because this is the end of the stage development related to the step-up notice, the third stage image G40C disappears one second after it is displayed, as shown in FIG. 56(G), and no further stage images G40 are displayed.

Note that Figure 56 illustrates a specific example of a third step-up notice that develops to the third stage via the third development path pattern A, but if it is a second step-up notice that develops to the second stage via the second development path pattern A, the step-up notice will end at the stage shown in Figure 56 (E), and if it is a first step-up notice, the step-up notice will end at the stage shown in Figure 56 (C).

Next, the third step-up notice, which develops to the third stage using the third development path pattern B, will be described. As shown in FIG. 57(A), when the step-up notice starts while the display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 is changing (normal change), the first stage image G40A associated with the first stage is displayed at approximately the center of the display unit 50a, as shown in FIG. 57(B). Here, the stage develops using the third development path pattern B, so it then develops to the third stage using the special development pattern. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 57(C), the display unit 50a displays an image of an imaginary monitor on whose surface the display contents displayed on the entire display unit 50a at that time, including the first stage image G40A, slowly starting to rotate counterclockwise in a plan view around a vertical straight line passing through the center of the left and right direction of the display unit 50a as the axis of rotation.

When a display process is performed on the display unit 50a such that the imaginary monitor begins to rotate, as shown in Figures 57(C) to 57(D), the special display area G150 constituting the imaginary monitor's surface shrinks toward the center in the left-right direction, so that the visible area of the surface gradually decreases, and the non-special display area G151 expands toward the center in the left-right direction.

When the rotation angle of the aerial monitor on the display unit 50a reaches 90 degrees, the left side of the aerial monitor faces forward, as shown in FIG. 58(A), and the surface of the aerial monitor, including the first-stage image G40A that was displayed when the rotation started, becomes completely invisible.

When the rotation of the imaginary monitor continues from the situation in FIG. 58(A), then, as shown in FIG. 58(B) to FIG. 58(C), the special display area G150 constituting the back side of the imaginary monitor expands toward both left and right ends, and the non-special display area G151 shrinks toward both left and right ends, so that the visible range of the back side of the imaginary monitor gradually expands. As the back side of the imaginary monitor, the special display area G150 displays the third stage image G40C associated with the third stage to be developed, as well as the normal background images G111 to G113, and the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 being displayed in a variable manner. Then, when a display process is performed on the display unit 50a such that the rotation of the imaginary monitor continues, the third stage image G40C, in other words, the third stage, which is the stage to be developed, can be recognized as the special display area G150 expands.

When the rotation of the imaginary monitor progresses further from the situation in FIG. 58(C) and the imaginary monitor rotation angle reaches 180 degrees on the display unit 50a, the back side of the imaginary monitor faces completely forward as shown in FIG. 58(D), the normal background image G111 is displayed on the entire display unit 50a, the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed in a variable manner superimposed on the normal background image G111, and the third stage image G40C is completely displayed superimposed on the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3. In other words, the development from the first stage to the third stage by the special development pattern is completed, and the step-up notice has developed to the third stage. Then, although not shown, one second after the situation shown in FIG. 58(D) is reached, the third stage image G40C is erased and the step-up notice ends.

Next, an example of the control content related to the step-up notice will be described. Note that the control content described below is an example of the control content related to the step-up notice, and therefore the control content is not limited to the content below and may be changed as appropriate.

For example, in step S4306, when the game is in normal game mode and in normal presentation mode, the presentation control microcomputer 121 determines the special chart change presentation pattern, and then performs a step-up notice execution judgment to determine whether or not to execute the step-up notice based on the special chart change start command.

The step-up notice execution judgment is performed by referring to the step-up notice execution judgment table. An example of the configuration of the step-up notice execution judgment table is shown in FIG. 59(A). As shown in FIG. 59(A), the step-up notice execution judgment table is associated with the special chart variation pattern. Specifically, the step-up notice execution judgment table includes a step-up notice execution judgment table for SP big win variation, a step-up notice execution judgment table for L big win variation, a step-up notice execution judgment table for SP miss variation, a step-up notice execution judgment table for L miss variation, a step-up notice execution judgment table for N miss variation, a step-up notice execution judgment table for normal A miss variation, a step-up notice execution judgment table for normal B miss variation, and a step-up notice execution judgment table for normal C miss variation. Each step-up notice execution judgment table shown in FIG. 59(A) is appropriately configured so that the selection rate for executing/not executing the step-up notice is the predetermined selection rate shown in FIG. 59(A).

As shown in FIG. 59(A), "execute" may be selected in both the case of a jackpot variation and a miss variation. Therefore, when the step-up notice is executed, there is a possibility that the jackpot game state will be reached. That is, the step-up notice is an effect that suggests that there is a possibility that the jackpot game state will be reached, in other words, it is an effect that, when executed, increases the expectation for the jackpot game state (increases the chances). Also, "execute" may be selected in both the case of a special pattern variation that results in a reach and in the case of a special pattern variation that does not result in a reach. Therefore, when the step-up notice is executed, there is a possibility that a reach will be reached. That is, the step-up notice is an effect that suggests that there is a possibility that a reach will be reached, in other words, it is an effect that, when executed, increases the expectation for a reach being reached (increases the chances).

When the performance control microcomputer 121 determines in the step-up notice execution judgment that a step-up notice should be executed, it then performs a final stage number judgment to determine the final stage number based on the special chart change start command.

The final stage number determination is performed by referring to the final stage number determination table. An example of the configuration of the final stage number determination table is shown in FIG. 59(B). As shown in FIG. 59(B), the final stage number determination table is associated with the special chart variation pattern. Specifically, the final stage number determination tables include a final stage number determination table for SP big win variation, a final stage number determination table for L big win variation, a final stage number determination table for SP miss variation, a final stage number determination table for L miss variation, a final stage number determination table for N miss variation, and a final stage number determination table for normal A miss variation. Each final stage number determination table shown in FIG. 59(B) is appropriately configured so that the selection rate for each final stage number is the predetermined selection rate shown in FIG. 59(B).

As shown in FIG. 59(B), "third stage" may be selected in the case of an SP reach variation (SP big win variation, SP miss variation), an L reach variation (L big win variation, L miss variation), or an N miss variation, but "third stage" is never selected in the case of a normal A miss variation. Therefore, if the step-up notice progresses to the third stage, it is determined that a reach will be established with the special chart variation performance.

Also, as shown in FIG. 59(B), in the case of an SP reach variation (SP jackpot variation, SP miss variation) and an L reach variation (L jackpot variation, L miss variation), "stage 4" or "stage 5" may be selected, but in the case of an N miss variation or a normal A miss variation, "stage 4" or "stage 5" is never selected. Therefore, if the step-up notice progresses to stage 4 or stage 5, it is determined that an L reach or SP reach will be executed in the special chart variation performance.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 59(B), in the case of SP jackpot fluctuation, L jackpot fluctuation, and SP miss fluctuation, "5th stage" may be selected, but in the case of L miss fluctuation, N miss fluctuation, and normal A miss fluctuation, "5th stage" is never selected. Also, the selection rate for "5th stage" is higher in the case of SP jackpot fluctuation and L jackpot fluctuation than in the case of SP miss fluctuation. Therefore, if the step-up notice progresses to the 5th stage, there is a high possibility that the special chart 1 fluctuation display will result in a jackpot. In addition, as shown in FIG. 59(B), in the second embodiment, the jackpot expectation suggested by the final stage number generally follows a magnitude relationship of 1st stage < 2nd stage < 3rd stage < 4th stage < 5th stage.

If the performance control microcomputer 121 determines that the final stage number is the third, fourth, or fifth stage, it continues to perform a development path pattern determination to determine the development path pattern based on the special chart change start command.

The development path pattern determination is performed by referring to the development path pattern determination table. An example of the configuration of the development path pattern determination table is shown in FIG. 60. As shown in FIG. 60, the development path pattern determination table is associated with the final stage number and the special chart variation pattern. Specifically, as the development path pattern determination table, there is a development path pattern determination table for the third stage of the final stage number, a development path pattern determination table for the fourth stage of the final stage number, and a development path pattern determination table for the fifth stage of the final stage number. And, the development path pattern determination table for the third stage of the final stage number includes one for SP jackpot variation, one for L jackpot variation, one for SP miss variation, one for L miss variation, and one for N miss variation. The development path pattern determination table for the fourth stage of the final stage number includes one for SP jackpot variation, one for L jackpot variation, one for SP miss variation, and one for L miss variation. The development path pattern determination table for the fifth final stage includes one for SP big win fluctuations, one for L big win fluctuations, and one for SP miss fluctuations. Each development path pattern determination table shown in FIG. 60 is appropriately configured so that the selection rate for each development path pattern is the predetermined selection rate shown in FIG. 60.

When the performance control microcomputer 121 has completed the determination of the final stage number if the final stage number is the first or second stage, or has completed the determination of the development path pattern if the final stage number is the third, fourth, or fifth stage, it sets a command (step-up notice execution command) indicating these determination results, which will become the performance content of the step-up notice, in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124.

The step-up notice execution command set in the output buffer is sent to the image control board 140 by the command sending process (S4004). When the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 receives the step-up notice execution command, when a predetermined time (e.g., 1 second) has elapsed since the start of the special chart change performance, the image control board 140 starts a step-up notice on the display unit 50a that reflects the results of the final stage number determination and the development path pattern determination indicated by the step-up notice execution command, and proceeds appropriately.

As described above, the pachinko game machine PY2 is equipped with a performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) capable of executing a performance on the display unit 50a, and when the performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) displays a stage image G40 (predetermined image) on the display unit 50a, the performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) may execute a stage development (specific performance) based on a special development pattern related to a step-up notice in which the stage image G40 (predetermined image) appears to rotate at least 180 degrees around a straight line in the vertical direction (predetermined direction) on a plane including the display unit 50a as an axis of rotation. When a stage development (specific performance) based on a special development pattern is executed, the display content of the stage image G40 (predetermined image) may have changed from before the execution of the stage development (specific performance) based on the special development pattern, giving the player a sense of surprise and anticipation for a new jackpot, increasing interest in the game.

In addition, with the pachinko gaming machine PY2, in the stage development (specific presentation) according to the special development pattern, the display content before the change when the stage development (specific presentation) according to the special development pattern starts gradually becomes unrecognizable, and as the display content before the change becomes unrecognizable, the display content after the change appears in an almost unrecognizable state, and after the display content after the change appears it becomes gradually recognizable, which gives the player a sense of excitement and increases his interest in the game.

(Modification of the second embodiment)
Next, modified examples of the pachinko gaming machine PY2 according to the second embodiment will be described. Note that the modified examples described below can be appropriately combined with each other.

The step-up notice can be executed in the normal game state, but the game state in which the step-up notice can be executed can be changed as appropriate, and it may be executed in other game states such as a high probability high base game state or a low probability high base game state. Also, the step-up notice can be executed in the normal presentation mode, but the presentation mode in which the step-up notice can be executed can be changed as appropriate, and it may be executed in other presentation modes such as a special probability presentation mode or a time-saving presentation mode. Also, throughout the entire game, the step-up notice may be executed in multiple types of game states and presentation modes.

Furthermore, the step-up notice can be executed during normal fluctuations in the special chart fluctuation presentation, but the timing of the step-up notice execution is not limited to normal fluctuations and may be changed as appropriate. For example, the step-up notice may be executed during the period after a reach such as an N reach has been achieved. Also, the step-up notice may be executable during multiple types of periods in the special chart fluctuation presentation, such as during normal fluctuations and during an N reach. In addition, when the step-up notice is executed, it may be executed once or multiple times in one special chart fluctuation presentation.

The number of final stages related to the step-up notice is five, but may be three, four, six or more. Furthermore, the number of final stages is associated with the expectation of a jackpot, but the target of the suggestion is not limited to the expectation of a jackpot and may be changed as appropriate. For example, the number of final stages may be associated with the possibility of a specific jackpot game state, such as a jackpot game with a relatively large number of rounds, a jackpot game with a relatively large number of prize balls that can be obtained in the jackpot game, or a jackpot game that transitions to a game state advantageous to the player, such as a high probability state or a time-saving state, after the jackpot game. Alternatively, the number of final stages may be associated with the possibility of a performance that suggests that there is a high possibility of a jackpot game state, such as an SP reach, being executed.

Furthermore, although there is only one type of special development pattern, multiple types may be provided. The degree of expectation of a big win or the degree of expectation of the number of stages of development may differ depending on the type of special development pattern. For example, the type of special development pattern may be associated with the rotation direction of the imaginary monitor, and there may be a special development pattern in which the imaginary monitor rotates counterclockwise in a plan view and a special development pattern in which the imaginary monitor rotates clockwise in a plan view. Alternatively, there may be a special development pattern in which the imaginary monitor rotates counterclockwise in a plan view and a special development pattern in which the imaginary monitor rotates counterclockwise in a right side view. In addition, the type of special development pattern may be associated with the rotation speed of the imaginary monitor, and there may be a special development pattern in which the imaginary monitor rotates 180 degrees at a first speed over a first time, and a special development pattern in which the imaginary monitor rotates 180 degrees at a second speed faster than the first speed over a second time shorter than the first time. Alternatively, the special development pattern is not an imaginary monitor, but is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped with each side being made up of the entire display unit 50a, and can be rotated within a range of 360 degrees like the imaginary monitor, but can also be made to stop at 90 degrees, 180 degrees, 270 degrees, and 360 degrees. Here, as the rotation angle at the time of stopping increases, it may be easier for the stage image G40 associated with the stage with a high probability of winning to be displayed.

In addition, when rotation of the imaginary monitor begins according to a special development pattern, the stage always develops, but it may also be possible for the stage not to develop. For example, when the rotation angle of the imaginary monitor reaches 90 degrees, the rotation direction of the imaginary monitor becomes clockwise in a plan view, and the front surface of the imaginary monitor including the stage image G40 associated with the stage from which the development originates may be displayed again on the entire display unit 50a. Alternatively, the stage image G40 associated with the stage from which the development originates may also be displayed on the back surface of the imaginary monitor.

Furthermore, it may be possible that a stage is about to progress in the normal development pattern, but the stage does not progress. For example, it may be possible that the same stage image G40 is displayed again after the stage image G40 from which the stage progresses disappears.

In addition, in the stage development by the special development pattern, the entire display unit 50a including the stage image G40 rotates as if it were an imaginary monitor, but the normal background images G111-G113 and the variable display performance patterns EZ1-EZ3 may rotate only the stage image G40, regardless of the stage development by the special development pattern. Also, the jackpot expectation rate related to the preview performance may be associated with the display content of the background image, and the background image may be switched (changed) by the rotation of the imaginary monitor. Furthermore, for example, when a reach is established with a performance pattern G10 indicating a relatively low jackpot expectation rate, the performance pattern G10 constituting the reach may be switched (changed) to one with a relatively high jackpot expectation rate by the rotation of the imaginary monitor.

Furthermore, although a character type is associated with a stage related to the step-up preview, the association may be changed as appropriate regardless of the character. For example, the size, shape, or color of a window-like object constituting the stage image G40 may be associated with a stage related to the step-up preview. Furthermore, the specific display content of the stage image G40 and the various times related to the step-up preview (normal stay time, normal development time, special stay time, special development time) are not particularly limited and may be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, the special development time of the imaginary monitor may be short (for example, 1 second), and the imaginary monitor may be rotated in such a manner that the process of switching from the display content related to the front side to the display content related to the back side is difficult to see.

Third Embodiment
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described based on the basic embodiment of the present invention described above. In the following, the third embodiment will be mainly described with respect to the differences from the basic embodiment. Also, the same reference numerals and terms are used for the same configurations as the basic embodiment or the similar corresponding configurations.

The pachinko game machine PY3 according to the third embodiment may execute a presentation flow configuration presentation that could not be executed in the basic embodiment in the special chart variation presentation related to the special chart 1 in the normal game state and normal presentation mode. In other words, the third embodiment and the basic embodiment are partially different in the special chart 1 variation pattern that can be determined in the normal game state and the special chart 1 variation pattern determination table related to the normal game state.

Figure 61 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a special chart 1 variation pattern determination table according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 61, the presentation flow configuration presentations that can be executed in the special chart variation presentation based on the special chart 1 variation pattern in the normal game state include development presentation, normal N reach, special N reach, post-reach notice, and connection presentation.

The development effect is an effect that suggests whether an L reach or an SP reach will be executed, and is executed in a developmental manner immediately after a reach is established after normal fluctuations (a reach establishment notification effect is executed). An N reach is an effect that suggests whether it will miss, develop into an L reach, or develop into an SP reach, and while at the end of an N reach, the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3, which indicate a miss, may stop and the special chart change effect may end with the N reach, the development effect will not derive a miss and the special chart change effect will not end as it is.

In the advanced performance, the established reach is maintained, but just like the L reach and SP reach, the performance symbols that make up the reach are reduced in size and moved to a specified position that does not interfere with the background image as much as in the case of the N reach. Also, with the start of the advanced performance, the background image is switched from the normal background images G111 to G113 that had been displayed up until that point to a background image dedicated to advanced performances (background image for advanced performances) G117.

The background image G117 for advanced performance is composed of a 2D CG animated video with a predetermined story. The content of the predetermined story related to the background image G117 for advanced performance can be set as appropriate, but in the third embodiment, it is set to a story in which the cheering squad for the main character's team is cheering on the main character.

Specific examples will be given later, but in the development performance, a common performance (common development performance) is executed first whether it develops into an L reach or an SP reach. Then, at the end of the development performance, a performance (development suggestion performance) is executed that suggests the development destination (L reach and SP reach). If it develops into an L reach, a performance suggesting that it will develop into an L reach (L reach development suggestion performance) is executed as the development destination suggestion performance, and if it develops into an SP reach, a performance suggesting that it will develop into an SP reach (SP reach development suggestion performance) is executed as the development destination suggestion performance.

Normal N Reach is a type of N Reach in the basic embodiment, and is an N Reach in which the post-reach notice described below is not executed. Therefore, in other words, in terms of the presentation content, normal N Reach and the N Reach in the basic embodiment are essentially the same presentation.

The special N reach is a type of N reach in the basic embodiment, and is an N reach in which the post-reach notice, described below, is temporarily inserted during the N reach. Specific examples will be described later, but most of the presentation content of the special N reach is the same as that of the normal N reach. The special N reach starts in the same way as the normal N reach, and is executed so that the post-reach notice temporarily interrupts midway through, but when the post-reach notice ends, it returns to the same presentation content as the normal N reach, and ends in the same way as the normal N reach. Therefore, the presentation content of the special N reach is the same as that of the normal N reach, except that the post-reach notice is executed.

In the following, normal N reach and special N reach will be collectively referred to as "N reach". Furthermore, the entire performance content of normal N reach and the part of special N reach excluding the post-reach notice will also be referred to as "N reach". In the following, in special N reach, the part before the post-reach notice is executed will be referred to as "first half of N reach", and the part after the post-reach notice is executed will be referred to as "second half of N reach".

In addition, in both cases where a normal N reach is performed and a special N reach is performed, there are times when the display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 stops in a manner indicating a miss, and times when it develops into an L reach, or times when it develops into an SP reach. In other words, in both cases where a normal N reach is performed and a special N reach is performed, there are times when the special chart change performance ends with the N reach, and times when the special chart change performance continues after the N reach.

The post-reach notice is a presentation that, when executed, increases the expectation of hitting the jackpot (increases the chances), and is only executed in the middle of a special N reach.

A connection effect is executed when a normal change is being executed. When a connection effect is executed, the normal change is instantly connected to the effect that the connection effect is to connect to, specifically, one of the SP reach, development effect, and post-reach notice. In other words, via the connection effect, the normal change is suddenly switched to an SP reach, development effect, or post-reach notice, skipping the reach establishment (reach establishment notification effect). In the following, a connection effect that is connected to an SP reach is referred to as an "SP reach connection effect," a connection effect that is connected to a development effect is referred to as an "development effect connection effect," and a connection effect that is connected to a post-reach notice is referred to as a "post-reach notice connection effect."

If the connection target of the connection effect is an SP reach, the SP reach is executed after the connection effect is executed. Furthermore, in this case, after the SP reach, the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 may be displayed stopped in a manner indicating a jackpot, and the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3 may be displayed stopped in a manner indicating a miss. In other words, regardless of whether the connection effect is executed or not, after the SP reach there is the possibility of either a jackpot or a miss. Note that the content of the SP reach when the connection effect is executed is the same as the content of the SP reach when the connection effect is not executed.

If the connection target of the connection effect is a development effect, the development effect is executed after the connection effect is executed. Furthermore, in this case, the development effect may develop into an L reach or an SP reach after the development effect. In other words, regardless of whether the connection effect is executed or not, there is a possibility that the development effect will develop into an L reach or an SP reach after the development effect. Note that the content of the development effect when the connection effect is executed is the same as the content of the development effect when the connection effect is not executed.

If the connection target of the connection effect is a post-reach notice, the post-reach notice is executed after the connection effect is executed. However, the "post-reach notice" here refers to the post-reach notice that constitutes the special N reach. Therefore, after the post-reach notice in this case, the second half of the N reach is executed. Then, in this case, there are times when the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3 are displayed stopped in a manner indicating a miss, when they develop into an L reach, and when they develop into an SP reach. In other words, regardless of whether a connection effect is executed or not, after the post-reach notice, there is a possibility that it will be a miss, that it will develop into an L reach, or that it will develop into an SP reach. Note that the performance content of the special N reach including the post-reach notice when the connection effect is executed is the same as the performance content of the special N reach including the post-reach notice when the connection effect is not executed.

Note that the content of the SP reach, development effect, and reach notice is the same when a connection effect is not performed and when it is performed, but in the following, the SP reach, development effect, and post-reach notice when a connection effect is not performed will be referred to as the "normal SP reach," "normal development effect," and "normal post-reach notice," and the SP reach, development effect, and post-reach notice when a connection effect is performed will be referred to as the "special SP reach," "special development effect," and "special post-reach notice."

In addition, although specific examples will be described later, in the connection effect, first a common effect (connection common effect) is executed whether it is connected to an SP reach, connected to an development effect, or connected to a post-reach notice. Then, at the end of the connection effect, an effect (connection destination suggestion effect) is executed that suggests the connection destination (SP reach, development effect, and post-reach notice). If it is connected to an SP reach, an effect suggesting that it will be connected to an SP reach (SP reach connection suggestion effect) is executed as the connection destination suggestion effect, if it is connected to a development effect, an effect suggesting that it will be connected to a development effect (development effect connection suggestion effect) is executed as the connection destination suggestion effect, and if it is connected to a post-reach notice, an effect suggesting that it will be connected to a post-reach notice (post-reach notice connection suggestion effect) is executed as the connection destination suggestion effect.

In the third embodiment, 11 types of special chart 1 variation patterns related to big wins are set. The names of each special chart 1 variation pattern related to big wins are as shown in the item "Special Chart 1 Variation Pattern" in FIG. 61. In addition, 12 types of special chart 1 variation patterns related to reach and miss are set. The names of each special chart 1 variation pattern related to reach and miss are as shown in the item "Special Chart 1 Variation Pattern" in FIG. 61.

Next, we will explain the step-up notice. The step-up notice is an effect that, when executed, increases the expectation of a jackpot game state (increases the chances), and is executed during normal fluctuations. There are cases where the step-up notice constitutes a connection effect, and cases where it does not. Below, a step-up notice that does not constitute a connection effect is referred to as a "normal step-up notice," and a step-up notice that constitutes a connection effect is referred to as a "special step-up notice." In other words, there are two types of step-up notices (step-up notice connection effect types) that are associated with whether or not they constitute a connection effect: normal step-up notices and special step-up notices.

The step-up notice is a presentation in which the stage associated with the notice can progress (step up). There are three stages associated with the step-up notice, the first stage to the third stage. In the third embodiment, the step-up notice starts from the first stage, and there are cases in which the stage does not progress thereafter, and cases in which the stage progresses. When there is no progress, the step-up notice that started from the first stage ends at the first stage. On the other hand, when it progresses, there are cases in which the step-up notice that started from the first stage progresses to the second stage and the step-up notice ends at the second stage, and cases in which it progresses to the second stage, then further progresses to the third stage and the step-up notice ends at the third stage.

The stage at which the step-up notice ends is referred to as the "final stage number." The final stage number related to the step-up notice is associated with the possibility and expectation (expectation of a jackpot) of a jackpot in the special chart 1 variable display in which the step-up notice is being executed. In the third embodiment, the jackpot expectation associated with the final stage number is highest in the order of first stage < second stage < third stage.

In the following, a step-up notice whose final stage number is the first stage will be referred to as the "first step-up notice." Similarly, a step-up notice whose final stage number is the second stage will be referred to as the "second step-up notice," and a step-up notice whose final stage number is the third stage will be referred to as the "third step-up notice." In other words, there are three types of step-up notices associated with the final stage number (step-up notice final stage number types): the first step-up notice to the third step-up notice.

The third stage of the step-up notice may be either one that constitutes a connection suggestion effect or one that does not. In the following, the third stage that does not constitute a connection suggestion effect is referred to as the "normal third stage", and the third stage that constitutes a connection suggestion effect is sometimes referred to as the "special third stage". A step-up notice that develops into the special third stage constitutes a special step-up notice (third special step-up notice), and the other step-up notices, i.e., the first step-up notice, the second step-up notice, and the step-up notice that develops into the normal third stage (third normal step-up notice), constitute normal step-up notices.

There are three types of special third stages: those that make up the SP reach connection suggestion effect (special third stage A), those that make up the development effect connection suggestion effect (special third stage B), and those that make up the reach post-notification connection suggestion effect (special third stage C). Note that the portion up to the second stage in the special step-up notification, in other words the portion up to the second stage if it eventually develops into the special third stage, makes up the common connection effect.

Furthermore, whether it ultimately develops to the normal third stage or the special third stage, the presentation content of the first and second stages is the same. Therefore, when the step-up announcement develops to the second stage, it is difficult for the player to recognize whether the normal step-up announcement or the special step-up announcement is being executed.

The stages (first stage, second stage, normal stage 3, special stage 3A, special stage 3B, special stage 3C) related to the step-up notice are associated with images. Figure 62 shows the images associated with each stage. The images (stage images) G50 associated with the stages include an image (first stage image) G50A (Figure 62(A)) associated with the first stage, an image (second stage image) G50B (Figure 62(B)) associated with the second stage, an image (normal stage 3 image) G50C (Figure 62(C)) associated with the normal stage 3, an image (special stage 3A image) G50D (Figure 62(D)) associated with the special stage 3A, an image (special stage 3B image) G50E (Figure 62(E)) associated with the special stage 3B, and an image (special stage 3C) G50F (Figure 62(E)) associated with the special stage 3C.

In the step-up preview, when the first stage image G50A is displayed, you are in the first stage, when the second stage image G50B is displayed, you are in the second stage, when the normal third stage image G50C is displayed, you are in the normal third stage, when the special third stage A image G50D is displayed, you are in the special third stage A, when the special third stage B image G50E is displayed, you are in the special third stage B, and when the special third stage C image G50F is displayed, you are in the special third stage C.

The first stage image G50A to the special third stage C image G50F are all based on a horizontally long rectangular window. In the center of each window related to the first stage image G50A, the second stage image G50B, and the normal third stage image G50C, a bust-up appearance of a different character from the front is displayed. In other words, a type of character is associated with each stage. Specifically, character A is associated with the first stage, character B is associated with the second stage, and character C is associated with the normal third stage. Meanwhile, in the center of each window related to the special third stage A image G50D, the special third stage B image G50E, and the special third stage C image G50F, the initial display content of the performance related to each connection destination is displayed. In other words, a connection destination target is associated with each stage. In addition, the first stage image G50A through the special third stage C image G50F are displayed superimposed on the normal background images G111-G113 and the changing performance patterns EZ1-EZ3.

Also, when a step-up preview is being executed, two or more of the first stage image G50A through the special third stage C image G50F are never displayed at the same time. Throughout one step-up preview, two or more of the first stage image G50A through the special third stage C image G50F may be displayed sequentially at different time periods, but at each instant in time, only one of the first stage image G50A through the special third stage C image G50F is displayed. The stage associated with any one of the first stage image G50A through the special third stage C image G50F that is being displayed is the stage in which you are currently present.

Next, specific examples of various effects that can be implemented by the pachinko gaming machine PY3 will be described. Figure 63 is a diagram explaining a specific example of a special N reach including a normal reach post-notice, Figure 64 is a diagram explaining a specific example of a normal development effect, Figure 65 is a diagram explaining a specific example of a third normal step-up notice, Figure 66 is a diagram explaining a specific example of a connection from a reach post-notice connection effect to a reach post-notice, Figure 67 is a diagram explaining a specific example of a connection from a development effect connection effect to a development effect, and Figure 68 is a diagram explaining a specific example of a connection from an SP reach connection effect to an SP reach.

First, a specific example of a special N reach that includes a normal reach post-notification will be described. As mentioned above, a normal reach post-notification is executed in the middle of an N reach. For example, as shown in FIG. 63(A), the post-reach notice is executed when a predetermined time (e.g., 4 seconds) has elapsed since the start of an N reach (first half of the N reach). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 63(B), an image (post-reach notice image) G51 associated with the post-reach notice is cut in across the entire display unit 50a. The post-reach notice image G51 is displayed for a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds). In other words, the performance time of the post-reach notice is a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds).

When the normal post-reach notice ends, the second half of the N reach is executed as shown in Figure 63 (C). However, here, it is executed from the point where the post-reach notice in the normal N reach ended. In other words, in the special N reach, the N reach is executed without interruption (when the post-reach notice is not executed) just like the normal N reach, while the post-reach notice is executed superimposed. Visually, it looks like the N reach is interrupted, but internally (in terms of control), while the post-reach notice is being executed, the N reach is executed in parallel. However, it is also possible for the N reach to stop when the post-reach notice starts, and to resume when the post-reach notice ends (the N reach is temporarily interrupted). In this way, in the special N reach, the performance flow unfolds as follows: "first half of N reach → post-reach notice → second half of N reach".

Next, a specific example of a normal development effect will be described. As mentioned above, a normal development effect is executed immediately after a reach is achieved. For example, as shown in FIG. 21(D), when a reach is achieved (when a reach achievement notification effect is executed), an effect is executed to develop the reach into a development effect, in other words, an effect to change the scene (switch the background image on the display unit 50a). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 64(A), an image (sliding door image) G52 representing a pair of left and right sliding doors that can be opened and closed is displayed across the entire display unit 50a.

Although a detailed explanation will be omitted, the sliding doors represented by the sliding door image G52 have a sliding door located on the left side (left sliding door) and a sliding door located on the right side (right sliding door), and as the sliding doors close, the left sliding door fades in from the left end of the display unit 50a and moves to the right, and the right sliding door fades in from the right end of the display unit 50a and moves to the left, until the two sliding door images G52 are completely displayed, covering the entire display unit 50a. By the sliding door image G52 being completely displayed, the normal background image G111 that had been displayed until then, and the left performance pattern EZ1 and right performance pattern EZ3 that formed the reach, are covered and become completely invisible.

Then, when a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed since the sliding door image G52 was completely displayed, the left sliding door moves leftward and fades out from the left end of the display unit 50a, and the right sliding door moves rightward and fades out from the right end of the display unit 50a, so that the sliding door represented by the sliding door image G52 opens, and the sliding door image G52 disappears completely. At this time, the normal development performance starts, and as shown in FIG. 64(B), the development performance background image G117 is displayed as a background image on the entire display unit 50a, and the left performance pattern EZ1 and right performance pattern EZ3 appear, which form the reach in a state where they have been reduced in size compared to when the reach was established and moved to the upper left and right corners of the display unit 50a.

The background image G117 for developmental performance is composed of an animated video with a story content in which the cheering squad of the main character's team is cheering on the main character, so that the story progresses appropriately when the background image G117 for developmental performance is displayed. Then, when the story associated with the background image G117 for developmental performance reaches a climax, as shown in FIG. 64(C), a branching point (performance development branching point) is reached where the story will develop into either an SP reach or an L reach. In this way, the portion from the start of the developmental performance to the branching point for the performance development constitutes the common development performance.

When the performance develops from a branching point to an SP reach, as shown in FIG. 64 (D-1), the last scene associated with the SP reach development suggestion performance is displayed in the background image G117 for the development as an SP reach development suggestion performance, and then the development ends and the SP reach begins. On the other hand, when the performance develops from a branching point to an L reach, as shown in FIG. 64 (D-2), the last scene associated with the L reach development suggestion performance is displayed in the background image G117 for the development as an L reach development suggestion performance, and then the development ends and the L reach begins.

In this way, in the development performance, when the common development performance is executed and a branching point for the performance development is reached, an SP reach development suggestion performance or an L reach development suggestion performance is executed as a development destination suggestion performance, and the performance develops into an SP reach or an L reach.

Next, a specific example of the third normal step-up notice will be described. As shown in Figure 65 (A), the third normal step-up notice starts when a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the varying display (normal variation) of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3. When the third normal step-up notice starts, first, as shown in Figure 65 (B), the first stage image G50A associated with the first stage is displayed approximately in the center of the display unit 50a.

When a predetermined time (e.g., 1 second) has elapsed since the first stage image G50A was displayed, the first stage image G50A disappears as shown in FIG. 65(C), and when a predetermined time (e.g., 0.5 seconds) has elapsed since then, the second stage image G50B associated with the second stage is displayed approximately in the center of the display unit 50a as shown in FIG. 65(D). This means that the step-up preview has progressed to the second stage.

When a predetermined time (e.g., 1 second) has elapsed since the second stage image G50B was displayed, the second stage image G50B disappears as shown in FIG. 65(D), and when a predetermined time (e.g., 0.5 seconds) has elapsed since then, the normal third stage image G50C associated with the normal third stage is displayed approximately in the center of the display unit 50a as shown in FIG. 65(E). This means that the step-up notice has progressed to the normal third stage. And since this is the end of the stage progression related to the step-up notice, the normal third stage image G50C disappears as shown in FIG. 65(G), and no further stage images G50 are displayed.

Note that Figure 65 illustrates a specific example of a third normal step-up notice that normally develops to the third stage, but if it is a second step-up notice that develops to the second stage, the step-up notice will end at the stage shown in Figure 65 (E), and if it is a first step-up notice, the step-up notice will end at the stage shown in Figure 65 (C).

In addition, in the third embodiment, the start time based on the start of the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1 to EZ3, in other words, the timing at which the first stage image G50A is displayed, is set to be the same for all step-up previews. Also, the time that each stage image G50A to G50F is displayed, in other words, the time spent at each stage, and the time from when a stage image G50 disappears until the next stage image G50 is displayed, are also set to be the same.

Next, a specific example of the connection from the reach-after notice connection effect to the reach-after notice will be described. In the special step-up notice (special C step-up notice) that develops to the special third stage C, when it develops to the second stage, as shown in FIG. 66(A), the second stage image G50B is displayed on the display unit 50a, and then the second stage image G50B is erased (not shown), and then it develops to the special third stage C, as shown in FIG. 66(B), the special third stage C image G50F is displayed approximately in the center of the display unit 50a. The display content of the special third stage C image G50F represents the initial display content of the reach-after notice image G51. In detail, the display content of the special third stage C image G50F represents almost the same display content of the reach-after notice image G51. In this way, the part up to the display of the second stage image G50B in the special C step-up notice constitutes the connection common effect, and the display of the special third stage C image G50F in FIG. 66(B) constitutes the reach-after notice connection effect.

Then, when a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed since the special third stage C image G50F was displayed, the post-reach notice begins. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 66(C), the special third stage C image G50F, which shows almost the entire display content of the post-reach notice image G51, expands overall and covers the entire display section 50a, gradually changing into the post-reach notice image G51. In other words, the special third stage C image G50F expands and is displayed on the entire display section 50a, and the post-reach notice connection suggestion performance ends, and the post-reach notice begins. This constitutes the connection from the post-reach notice connection suggestion performance by the display of the special third stage C image G50F to the post-reach notice. Also, the post-reach notice thus executed in a progressive manner from the step-up notice constitutes the special post-reach notice.

When the special post-reach notice begins and the same presentation time as that of the normal post-reach notice has elapsed, as shown in Figure 66 (D), the post-reach notice image G51 is erased and the special post-reach notice ends, and the second half of the N-reach is executed, just as in the case of the normal post-reach notice. The subsequent developments are also the same as in the case of the normal post-reach notice.

Next, a specific example of the connection from the development performance connection performance to the development performance will be described. In the special step-up notice (special B step-up notice) which develops to the special third stage B, when it develops to the second stage, as shown in FIG. 67(A), the second stage image G50B is displayed on the display unit 50a, and then the second stage image G50B is erased (not shown), and then it develops to the special third B stage, as shown in FIG. 67(B), the special third stage B image G50E is displayed approximately in the center of the display unit 50a. The display content of the special third stage B image G50E represents the display content of the development performance background image G117. In detail, the display content of the special third stage B image G50E represents almost the same display content at the start of the development performance background image G117. In this way, the part up to the display of the second stage image G50B in the special B step-up notice constitutes the connection common performance, and the display of the special third stage B image G50E in FIG. 67(B) constitutes the development performance connection performance.

Then, when a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed since the special third stage B image G50E was displayed, the development performance begins. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 67(C), the special third stage B image G50E, which shows almost exactly the same display content at the start of the development performance background image G117, expands overall and covers the entire display section 50a, gradually changing into the development performance background image G117. In other words, the special third stage B image G50E expands and is displayed on the entire display section 50a, ending the development performance connection suggestion performance and starting the development performance. This constitutes the connection from the development performance connection suggestion performance by the display of the special third stage B image G50E to the development performance. Furthermore, the development performance thus executed in a developmental manner from the step-up notice constitutes the special development performance.

In response to the change from the special third stage B image G50E to the background image G117 for the development performance, the left performance pattern EZ1 and right performance pattern EZ3 appear, forming the same reach as in the normal development performance. Specifically, the left performance pattern EZ1 in a temporary stop display state, which is smaller than when the reach is established, appears in the upper left corner of the display unit 50a, and the right performance pattern EZ3 in a temporary stop display state, which is approximately the same size as the left performance pattern EZ1, appears in the upper right corner of the display unit 50a.

When the special development performance begins, the development performance will unfold in the same way as in the normal development performance, as shown in Figure 67 (D), and will eventually develop into an SP reach or an L reach.

Next, a specific example of the connection from the SP reach connection performance to the SP reach will be described. When the special step-up notice (special A step-up notice) that develops to the special third stage A develops to the second stage, as shown in FIG. 68(A), the second stage image G50B is displayed on the display unit 50a, and then the second stage image G50B is erased (not shown). Then, when it develops to the special third stage A, as shown in FIG. 68(B), the special third stage A image G50D is displayed approximately in the center of the display unit 50a. The display content of the special third stage A image G50D represents the display content of the SP reach background image G115. In detail, the display content of the special third stage A image G50D represents almost the same display content at the start of the SP reach background image G115.

Then, when a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed since the special third stage A image G50D was displayed, the SP reach begins. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 68(C), the special third stage A image G50D, which almost exactly represents the display content at the start of the SP reach background image G115, expands overall and covers the entire display section 50a, gradually changing into the SP reach background image G115. In other words, the special third stage A image G50D expands and is displayed on the entire display section 50a, ending the SP reach connection suggestion performance and starting the SP reach. This constitutes the connection from the SP reach connection suggestion performance by the display of the special third stage A image G50D to the SP reach. Also, the SP reach executed in this manner from the step-up notice constitutes the special SP reach. In addition, in response to the change from the special third stage A image G50D to the background image G115 for the SP reach, the left performance pattern EZ1 and right performance pattern EZ3 appear, forming the same reach as in the normal SP reach. Specifically, the left performance pattern EZ1 in the temporary stop display state, which is smaller than when the reach is established, appears in the upper left corner of the display unit 50a, and the right performance pattern EZ3 in the temporary stop display state, which is approximately the same size as the left performance pattern EZ1, appears in the upper right corner of the display unit 50a.

Once the special SP reach is initiated, the SP reach will unfold in the same way as the normal SP reach, as shown in Figure 68 (D).

As shown in Figures 65 to 68, when the step-up notice progresses to the second stage and the second stage image G50B disappears, the step-up notice may end, progress to the normal third stage, progress to special third stage A, progress to special third stage B, or progress to special third stage C. Thus, the disappearance of the second stage image G50B constitutes a branching point as to whether the step-up notice continues or not, a branching point as to whether a connection suggestion performance is executed or not, and a branching point as to which connection suggestion performance is executed.

In addition, the portions of the special A step-up notice, special B step-up notice, and special C step-up notice up to the display of the second stage image G50B constitute a common connection effect, the display of the special third stage C image G50F in FIG. 66(B) constitutes a post-reach notice connection effect, the display of the special third stage B image G50E in FIG. 67(B) constitutes an advanced effect connection effect, and the display of the special third stage A image G50D in FIG. 68(B) constitutes a SP reach connection effect.

Next, an example of the control content related mainly to the step-up notice and the connection performance will be described. Note that the control content described below is an example of the control content related to the performance such as the step-up notice and the connection performance, and therefore the control content is not limited to the content described below and may be changed as appropriate.

As mentioned above, the connection effect is a performance flow configuration effect, and is incorporated into the special chart change pattern. Therefore, for example, in step S4306, when the normal game state and normal performance mode are in effect, if the received special chart change pattern includes a connection effect in the performance flow configuration effect, the performance control microcomputer 121 determines a special chart change performance pattern that indicates the performance flow of the special chart change performance based on the special chart pattern shown in FIG. 61, and then transmits a special chart change start command that indicates the special chart change performance pattern to the image control board 150. When the image CPU 151 of the image control board 150 receives the special chart change start command, it executes a special step-up notice that includes various connection effects, as shown in FIG. 66 to FIG. 68, and connects the various connection suggestion effects to the SP reach, development effect, and post-reach notice.

On the other hand, when in the normal game state and normal presentation mode, if the received special chart change pattern does not include a connection presentation in the presentation flow configuration presentation, the presentation control microcomputer 121 performs a step-up notice execution judgment based on the special chart change start command to determine whether or not to execute the step-up notice.

The step-up notice execution judgment is performed by referring to the step-up notice execution judgment table. An example of the configuration of the step-up notice execution judgment table is shown in FIG. 69. As shown in FIG. 69, the step-up notice execution judgment table is associated with the special chart variation pattern. Specifically, as step-up notice execution judgment tables, there are provided ones for normal development SP jackpot variation, ones for normal N with SP jackpot variation, ones for normal N without SP jackpot variation, ones for normal development L jackpot variation, ones for normal N with L jackpot variation, ones for normal N without L jackpot variation, ones for normal development SP miss variation, ones for normal N with SP miss variation, ones for normal N without SP miss variation, ones for normal development L miss variation, ones for normal N with L miss variation, ones for normal N without L miss variation, ones for N miss variation, ones for normal A miss variation, ones for normal B miss variation, and ones for normal C miss variation. Each step-up notice execution determination table shown in FIG. 69 is appropriately configured so that the selection rate for executing/not executing a step-up notice is a predetermined selection rate shown in FIG. 69.

As shown in FIG. 69, "execute" may be selected in both the case of a jackpot variation and a miss variation. Therefore, when the step-up notice is executed, there is a possibility that a jackpot game state will be reached. That is, the step-up notice is an effect that suggests that there is a possibility that a jackpot game state will be reached. In other words, when it is executed, it is an effect that increases the expectation for a jackpot game state (increases the chances). Also, "execute" may be selected in both the case of a special chart variation that results in a reach and the case of a special chart variation pattern that does not result in a reach. Therefore, when the step-up notice is executed, there is a possibility that a reach will be reached. That is, the step-up notice is an effect that suggests that there is a possibility that a reach will be reached.

When the performance control microcomputer 121 determines in the step-up notice execution judgment that a step-up notice should be executed, it then performs a final stage number judgment to determine the final stage number based on the special chart change start command.

The final stage number determination is performed by referring to the final stage number determination table. An example of the configuration of the final stage number determination table is shown in FIG. 70. As shown in FIG. 70, the final stage number determination table is associated with the special chart variation pattern. Specifically, the final stage number determination tables are provided for normal development SP jackpot variation, normal N with SP jackpot variation, normal N without SP jackpot variation, normal development L jackpot variation, normal N with L jackpot variation, normal N without L jackpot variation, normal development SP miss variation, normal N with SP miss variation, normal N without SP miss variation, normal development L miss variation, normal N with L miss variation, normal N without L miss variation, N miss variation, and normal A miss variation. Each final stage number determination table shown in FIG. 70 is appropriately configured so that the selection rate for each final stage number becomes the predetermined selection rate shown in FIG. 70.

As shown in FIG. 70, in the case of an SP reach variation (SP jackpot variation, SP miss variation), an L reach variation (L jackpot variation, L miss variation), or an N miss variation, the outcome may be determined to be the "second stage" or "third stage", but in the case of an A miss variation, the outcome is not usually determined to be the "second stage" or "third stage". Therefore, when the step-up notice progresses to the second or third stage, it is determined that a reach will be established, an L reach will be executed, or an SP reach will be executed. In other words, the development to the second stage and the third stage in the step-up notice is a presentation that suggests the establishment of a reach, the execution of an L reach, or the execution of an SP reach.

Also, as shown in FIG. 70, in both cases of SP reach fluctuation (SP jackpot fluctuation, SP miss fluctuation) and L reach fluctuation (L jackpot fluctuation, L miss fluctuation), it may be determined to be the "third stage", but in the case of an N miss fluctuation, it is never determined to be the "third stage". Therefore, when the step-up notice progresses to the third stage, it is determined that an L reach will be executed or an SP reach will be executed. In other words, the progress to the third stage in the step-up notice is a presentation that suggests the execution of an L reach or an SP reach.

When the performance control microcomputer 121 has completed the final stage number determination, it sets a command (normal step-up notice execution command) indicating the determination result (result of the final stage number determination) showing the performance content related to the normal step-up notice in the output buffer of the performance RAM 124.

The normal step-up notice execution command set in the output buffer is sent to the image control board 140 by the command sending process (S4004). When the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 receives the normal step-up notice execution command, it starts the normal step-up notice indicated by the normal step-up notice execution command on the display unit 50a when a predetermined time has elapsed since the special chart change performance started. Specifically, the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 appropriately executes the normal step-up notice as shown in FIG. 65 on the display unit 50a.

As described above, the pachinko game machine PY3 is equipped with a game control microcomputer 101 (game execution means) that performs a jackpot determination as to whether the game is a jackpot (specific result) or a miss (non-specific result) and may set the game state to a jackpot game state (specific game state) that is advantageous to the player when the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot (specific result), and a performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) that may execute a performance on the display unit 50a. When the performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) performs a jackpot determination, it displays the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 on the display unit 50a. The display mode of the variable display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) may be a normal variable mode (first display mode) and a reach variable mode (second display mode) which suggests that the probability of a jackpot game state (specific game state) is higher than that of the normal variable mode (first display mode). When the display mode of the variable display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) is changed to the reach variable mode (second display mode), the performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) A reach is established (announcement effect) may be executed to notify that a jackpot game state (specific game state) will occur, and after the variable display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) is performed in the normal variable mode (first display mode), the variable display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) is performed in the reach variable mode (second display mode) after the reach is established, and when the variable display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) is performed in the reach variable mode (second display mode), an SP reach, development effect, and post-reach notice (specific effect) that suggest that a jackpot game state (specific game state) may occur are displayed. ), or when the variable display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) is in the normal variable mode (first display mode), a connection suggestion effect (suggestion effect) is executed that suggests that an SP reach, development effect, and post-reach notice (specific effect) will be executed, and in response to the execution of the connection suggestion effect (suggestion effect), the SP reach, development effect, and post-reach notice (specific effect) are executed without executing a reach establishment (announcement effect), which gives the player a sense of surprise and expectation of a new jackpot, increasing interest in the game.

In addition, according to the pachinko game machine PY3, the performance control microcomputer 121 (performance execution means) may execute a step-up notice (pre-notification performance) that can progress through stages when the display of the performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3 (identification information) is in the normal variation mode (first display mode). The step-up notice (pre-notification performance) may start at the first stage (first stage) and end at the first stage, or may progress to the third stage (second stage) that suggests that there is a higher possibility of a jackpot game state (specific game state) than the first stage. As the third stage (second stage), a connection destination suggestion performance (suggestion performance) may be executed, or a non-suggestion performance (normal third stage) that does not suggest that an SP reach, a development performance, or a reach post notice (specific performance) will be executed may be executed, giving the player a sense of excitement and further increasing interest in the game.

(Modification of the third embodiment)
Next, modified examples of the pachinko gaming machine PY3 according to the third embodiment will be described. Note that the modified examples described below can be appropriately combined with each other.

The normal step-up notice and the special step-up notice can be executed in the normal game state, but the game state in which the normal step-up notice and the special step-up notice can be executed can be changed as appropriate, and they may be executed in other game states such as a high probability high base game state or a low probability high base game state. Also, the normal step-up notice and the special step-up notice can be executed in the normal presentation mode, but the presentation mode in which the normal step-up notice and the special step-up notice can be executed can be changed as appropriate, and they may be executed in other presentation modes such as a special probability presentation mode or a time-saving presentation mode. Also, throughout the entire game, the normal step-up notice and the special step-up notice may be executed in multiple types of game states and presentation modes.

The final stage number for the step-up notice is the third stage, but it may be the second stage or any of the fourth stage and above. Furthermore, the final stage number is associated with the expectation of a jackpot, but the target of the suggestion is not limited to the expectation of a jackpot and may be changed as appropriate. For example, the final stage number may be associated with the possibility of a specific jackpot game state, such as a jackpot game with a relatively large number of rounds, a jackpot game with a relatively large number of prize balls that can be obtained in the jackpot game, or a jackpot game that transitions to a game state advantageous to the player, such as a high probability state or a time-saving state, after the jackpot game. Alternatively, the final stage number may be associated with the possibility of a performance that suggests that there is a high possibility of a jackpot game state, such as an SP reach, being executed.

Furthermore, while there are some that constitute a connection destination suggestion effect as a type of third stage, there may also be some that constitute a connection destination suggestion effect in the first or second stage. There may also be a fourth stage or more, and there may be some that constitute a connection destination suggestion effect in the fourth stage or more. Furthermore, there may be multiple types of stages that constitute a connection destination suggestion effect. In this case, for example, the higher the stage, the more types of things that constitute the connection destination suggestion effect. Also, the higher the stage, the higher the chance of a jackpot related to the effect of the connection destination of things that constitute the connection destination suggestion effect.

In addition, the step-up announcement progresses one step at a time, but it may progress multiple steps in one step, for example from one step to three steps.

Furthermore, the step-up notice always ends when it progresses to a stage that constitutes a connection destination suggestion performance, but it may not end. For example, a stage image G50 associated with a stage that constitutes a connection destination suggestion performance may be displayed and then disappear, followed by a stage image G50 that is not associated with a stage that constitutes a connection destination suggestion performance. Alternatively, a stage image G50 associated with a stage that constitutes a certain connection destination suggestion performance may be displayed and then disappear, followed by a stage image G50 associated with a stage that constitutes the same connection destination suggestion performance, or a stage image G50 associated with a stage that constitutes a different connection destination suggestion performance. When the stage that constitutes the previous connection destination suggestion performance and the stage that constitutes the subsequent connection destination suggestion performance are different, the probability of a jackpot expected to be associated with the performance that is the target of the subsequent connection destination suggestion performance may be higher than the probability of a jackpot expected to be associated with the performance that is the target of the previous connection destination suggestion performance.

The connection targets of the connection effects are the after-reach notice, the development effect, and the SP reach, but the connection targets are not particularly limited and may be changed as appropriate. For example, the connection target of the connection effect may be a temporary stop display in a manner that indicates a jackpot of the effect patterns EZ1 to EZ3. In more detail, the connection effects are connected at the start of the after-reach notice, the development effect, and the SP reach, but they may also be connected in the middle of the after-reach notice, the development effect, and the SP reach. For example, the connection effect may be connected to a scene in the middle of the SP reach (for example, a scene where the main character throws the ball as shown in FIG. 26(A)) or a scene where the operation promotion effect starts at the winning/losing branch point in the final stage of the SP reach.

Furthermore, although the first, second, and normal third stages of the step-up preview are associated with character types, the association may be changed as appropriate regardless of the character. For example, the size, shape, or color of a window-like object that constitutes the stage image G50 may be associated with a stage related to the step-up preview. Furthermore, the specific display content of the stage image G50 and the various times related to the step-up preview are not particularly limited and may be changed as appropriate.

7. Other Modifications Next, other modifications of the pachinko gaming machine PY according to the basic embodiment and the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to the first embodiment to the pachinko gaming machine PY3 according to the third embodiment will be described below. Hereinafter, the basic embodiment and the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to the first embodiment to the pachinko gaming machine PY3 according to the third embodiment will be referred to as the "pachinko gaming machine PY, etc."

In pachinko gaming machines such as PY, the display unit 50a is used to variably display the effect symbols EZ1 to EZ3 in order to notify the results of the special drawing. However, instead of an image display device, a drum on which symbols are displayed may be provided as in a so-called "slot machine," and the results of the special drawing may be notified by variably displaying the drum.

In addition, in pachinko game machines such as PY, the big prize opening 14 can be opened in a big win game, but a prize area that can be opened in a big win game other than the big prize opening 14 may also be provided.

In addition, in pachinko game machines such as PY, when a specific jackpot symbol type is determined, the game always proceeds in a high probability state after the jackpot game. In other words, the setting of the high probability state is associated with the jackpot symbol type. However, the setting conditions of the high probability state may be changed. For example, a second jackpot winning device that can be opened and closed and into which a game ball can enter when opened may be provided in a position in the game area 6 where the game ball can reach, separate from the jackpot winning device 14D, and when the second jackpot winning device is opened during a specific round of play during the jackpot game and the game ball that entered the second jackpot winning device passes through a specific area provided downstream of the second jackpot winning device, the high probability state may be set with the end of the jackpot game.

In this case, for example, a specific jackpot pattern (a jackpot pattern that makes it easy to set a high probability state) that the second large prize winning device opens for a time when it is easy to win (e.g., 29.5 seconds), and a non-specific jackpot pattern (a jackpot pattern that makes it difficult to set a high probability state) that the second large prize winning device opens for a time when it is difficult to win (e.g., 0.5 seconds). In addition, there are specific and non-specific areas that a game ball that has won the second large prize winning device can pass through, and a distribution device is provided that distributes game balls to the specific and non-specific areas. Then, although the opening time of the second large prize winning device is the same, it is also possible to provide jackpot patterns that make it easy to set a high probability state and jackpot patterns that make it difficult to set a high probability state by combining the opening mode of the second large prize winning device and the operating mode of the distribution device.

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

The gaming machine of the present invention can also be applied to other pinball gaming machines such as arrange ball machines and mahjong ball gaming machines, as well as reel-type gaming machines (so-called "slot machines").

8. Inventions Disclosed in the Above-mentioned Embodiments The following inventions A to D have been disclosed up to the previous paragraph in this [Mode for carrying out the invention]. In the description of inventions A to D, the names and expressions of the corresponding configurations in the above-mentioned modes for carrying out the inventions and the symbols used in the drawings are added in parentheses for reference. However, the elements such as the means constituting each invention are not limited to these additions. Note that invention A is a general term for inventions A1 to A3 below, invention B is a general term for inventions B1 to B2 below, invention C is a general term for inventions C1 to C3 below, and invention D is a general term for inventions D1 to D3 below.

In addition, according to invention A, the gaming machine described in JP 2019-000700 A has the effect of increasing interest in gaming, as described below in relation to problem 1. In the gaming machine described in JP 2019-000700 A, when a predetermined condition is met, such as when a gaming ball enters a starting hole, a jackpot determination is made as to whether a jackpot will be won or not. When a jackpot determination is made, a display unit displays a varying effect pattern. After the varying effect pattern is displayed, a stationary effect pattern is displayed in a manner that indicates the jackpot determination result. When a stationary effect pattern is displayed in a manner that indicates a jackpot, a special game advantageous to the player may be executed. However, there is still room for improvement in gaming machines that display varying or stationary effect patterns in order to increase interest in gaming. Therefore, problem 1 is to provide a new gaming machine that increases interest in gaming.

In addition, according to invention B, the gaming machine described in JP 2018-099600 A has the effect of increasing interest in the game, as described below in relation to problem 2. In the gaming machine described in JP 2018-099600 A, when a predetermined condition, such as a game ball entering a starting hole, is met, a jackpot determination is made as to whether the game will be a jackpot or a miss. When the jackpot determination is made, the display unit executes a variable display of the performance pattern. The display mode of the variable display of the performance pattern includes a special variable mode that can be executed when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, but is not executed when the jackpot result is a miss. However, there is still room for improvement in order to increase interest in the game machine in which the variable display of the performance pattern may be executed in a special variable mode that can be executed when the jackpot result is a jackpot, but is not executed when the jackpot result is a miss. Therefore, problem 2 is to provide a new gaming machine that increases interest in the game.

Furthermore, according to invention C, the gaming machine described in JP 2019-118416 A has the effect of increasing the interest in the game, as described below in relation to problem 3. In the gaming machine described in JP 2019-118416 A, when a predetermined condition, such as a game ball entering a starting hole, is met, a jackpot determination is made as to whether a jackpot will be won or not. When a jackpot determination is made, a variable display of a special symbol is executed. After the variable display of the special symbol is performed, a stop display of the special symbol is performed in a manner that indicates the jackpot determination result. When a stop display of the special symbol is performed in a manner that indicates a jackpot, the game may be controlled to a special game state that is advantageous to the player. When the variable display of the special symbol is performed, a predetermined image may be displayed, but the display content of the predetermined image may change (switch). However, there is still room for improvement in order to increase the interest in the game for gaming machines in which the display content of the predetermined image may change (switch). Therefore, the third objective is to provide a new gaming machine that will increase interest in gaming.

Furthermore, according to Invention D, the gaming machine described in JP 2019-000700 A has the effect of increasing interest in gaming in relation to Problem 4, which will be explained below. In the gaming machine described in JP 2019-000700 A, when a predetermined condition is met, such as a gaming ball entering a starting hole, a jackpot determination is made as to whether a jackpot will be awarded or not. When a jackpot determination is made, a varying display of the performance symbols is executed on the display unit. After the varying display of the performance symbols is performed, a stopped display of the performance symbols is performed in a manner that indicates the jackpot determination result. Here, the display mode of the variable display of the performance pattern includes a normal mode and a reach mode that suggests that there is a higher possibility of a jackpot than the normal mode. When the display mode of the variable display of the performance pattern is set to the reach mode, a reach-established display that notifies the player that the display will be in the reach mode may be executed. After the variable display of the performance pattern is performed in the normal mode, the reach-established display is executed, and the variable display of the performance pattern is performed in the reach mode, and when the variable display of the performance pattern is performed in the reach mode, an SP reach or L reach that suggests that there is a possibility of a jackpot may be executed. However, there is still room for improvement in order to increase the interest in the game for a gaming machine that may execute a display that suggests that there is a possibility of a game state that is advantageous to the player after executing a display that notifies the player that the display mode of the variable display of the performance pattern will be a display mode that suggests that there is a relatively high possibility of a game state that is advantageous to the player. Therefore, the fourth object is to provide a new gaming machine that increases the interest in the game.

8-1-1. Invention A1
The gaming machine according to the invention A1 is
A game execution means (game control microcomputer 101) that performs a main determination (a main determination, a main determination, a special pattern change pattern determination) including a determination of whether the result is a specific result (a main result) or a non-specific result (a miss), and may execute a special game (a main result game) that is advantageous to the player when the main determination result is the specific result;
A performance execution means (performance control microcomputer 121) that may execute a performance on the display unit,
In the gaming machine, when the main determination is made, the performance execution means may variably display the identification information (performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3) on the display unit and then stop display the identification information in a manner that suggests the result of the main determination,
The gaming machine is characterized in that the performance execution means may start a varying display of the identification information when a specific condition (there is a special chart 1 reserved where the result of the pre-reading judgment is a jackpot) is met in the specific game.

8-1-2. Invention A2
The gaming machine according to the invention A2 is
A gaming machine according to the invention A1,
said game execution means is capable of withholding the right to make said main judgment when said right to make said main judgment is obtained and said main judgment cannot be made based on said right;
The specific condition includes that the right to make the main judgment is reserved when the specific game is being executed,
The gaming machine is characterized in that, when the effect execution means starts the varying display of the identification information during the specific game, the effect execution means continues to execute the started varying display of the identification information until a predetermined timing after the specific game ends.

8-1-3. Invention A3
The gaming machine according to the invention A3 is
A gaming machine according to the invention A2,
When the right to make the main determination is obtained, the game execution means may make a pre-determination (pre-reading determination) including a determination of whether the result is a specific result or a non-specific result before making the main determination,
The specific condition includes that the result of the preliminary determination is a predetermined result (jackpot),
The gaming machine is characterized in that, when the presentation execution means starts the varying display of the identification information in the specific game, after a real judgment corresponding to the right to make the real judgment related to the result of the pre-judgment that constitutes the establishment of the specific condition has been made, the presentation execution means stops the varying display of the identification information that has been started in a manner that suggests the result of the real judgment.

8-2-1. Invention B1
The gaming machine according to the invention B1 comprises:
A game execution means (game control microcomputer 101) capable of making a first determination (jackpot determination) of whether a specific result (jackpot) or a non-specific result (miss);
A performance execution means (performance control microcomputer 121) that may execute a performance on the display unit,
The game execution means may perform a second determination (pre-reading determination) of whether to select the specific result or the non-specific result before performing the first determination,
The performance execution means is capable of executing a variable performance in which the identification information (performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3) are displayed in a variable manner based on the result of the first judgment, and then the identification information is displayed in a stopped manner that indicates the result of the first judgment.
The display mode of the change display of the identification information includes a special change mode (full rotation change mode) that may be executed when the result of the first judgment related to the change performance is the specific result but is not executed when the result is the non-specific result,
The performance execution means includes:
When the result of the first judgment is the specific result, the identification information is displayed in the special variation mode after the start of the variation performance based on the result of the first judgment, and when the identification information is displayed in the special variation mode, a special image (full rotation background image G116) corresponding to the special variation mode may be displayed.
A gaming machine characterized in that, when the result of the second judgment is the specific result, the special image may be displayed on the display unit before the first judgment corresponding to the second judgment is made.

8-2-2. Invention B2
The gaming machine according to the invention B2 is
A gaming machine according to the present invention,
A gaming machine characterized in that the time (30 seconds) required for the variable presentation based on the result of the first judgment when the special image is displayed before the first judgment corresponding to the second judgment is made is shorter than the time (180 seconds) required for the variable presentation when the special image is displayed after the start of the variable presentation based on the result of the first judgment.

8-3-1. Invention C1
The gaming machine according to the invention C1 comprises:
A performance execution means (performance control microcomputer 121) capable of executing a performance on the display unit is provided,
The performance execution means may execute a specific performance (stage development by a special development pattern) in which, when a predetermined image (stage image G40) is displayed on the display unit, the predetermined image appears to rotate at least a predetermined angle (180 degrees) around a straight line in a predetermined direction (up and down direction) on a plane including the display unit as a rotation axis,
When the specific effect is executed, the display content of the predetermined image may change from before the specific effect was executed.

8-3-2. Invention C2
The gaming machine according to the invention C2 is
A gaming machine according to invention C1,
This gaming machine is characterized in that, in the specific presentation, the display content before the change when the specific presentation starts gradually becomes unrecognizable, and as the display content before the change becomes unrecognizable, the display content after the change appears in an almost unrecognizable state, and the display content after the change gradually becomes recognizable after it appears.

8-4-1. Invention D1
The gaming machine according to the invention D1 is
a game execution means (game control microcomputer 101) for determining whether a specific result (jackpot) or a non-specific result (miss) is obtained (jackpot determination), and for setting a specific game state (jackpot game state, high probability state, time-saving state) advantageous to a player when the result of the determination is the specific result;
A performance execution means (performance control microcomputer 121) that may execute a performance on the display unit,
In the gaming machine, when the performance execution means makes the judgment, the display unit may display the identification information (performance symbols EZ1 to EZ3) in a variable manner and then display the identification information in a manner that indicates the result of the judgment,
The display mode of the variable display of the identification information includes a first display mode (normal variable mode) and a second display mode (reach variable mode) which indicates that the specific game state is more likely to occur than the first display mode,
The performance execution means includes:
When the display mode of the variable display of the identification information is changed to the second display mode, a notification effect (a reach establishment notification effect) may be executed to notify that the display mode will be changed to the second display mode,
A gaming machine characterized in that, after the variation display of the identification information is performed in the first display mode, the notification effect is executed and then the variation display of the identification information is performed in the second display mode, and when the variation display of the identification information is performed in the second display mode, a specific effect is executed which suggests that the specific game state may be entered, and when the variation display of the identification information is performed in the first display mode, a suggestion effect (connection destination suggestion effect) which suggests that the specific effect will be executed is executed, and in response to the execution of the suggestion effect, the specific effect is executed without executing the notification effect.

8-4-2. Invention D2
The gaming machine according to the invention D2 is
A gaming machine according to the invention D1,
The performance execution means includes:
When the variable display of the identification information is performed in the first display mode, a notice performance in which the stage can be developed (step-up notice) may be executed,
The preview performance may be started in a first stage (first stage) and ended in the first stage, or may be developed to a second stage (third stage) which suggests that the specific game state is more likely to occur than in the first stage.
This gaming machine is characterized in that, as the second stage, there are cases where the suggestive performance is executed and cases where a non-suggestive performance (usually the third stage) that does not suggest that the specific performance will be executed is executed.

PY, PY1, PY2, PY3... Pachinko game machine 1... Game board 6... Game area 6A... Left game area 6B... Right game area 11... First start opening 11a... First start opening sensor 12... Second start opening 12a... Second start opening sensor 14... Large prize opening 14a... Large prize opening sensor 50... Image display device 50a... Display unit 52... Speaker 53... Frame lamp 100... Game control board 101... Game control microcomputer 120... Performance control board 121... Performance control microcomputer 140... Image control board

Claims (1)

A performance execution means capable of executing a performance on the display unit,
The effect execution means may execute a specific effect of displaying a predetermined image on the display unit,
The specific performance includes a first specific performance and a second specific performance,
In the first specific performance, the predetermined image appears to rotate at least a predetermined angle around a straight line in a predetermined direction on a plane including the display unit as a rotation axis, and the display content of the predetermined image after the rotation is different from that before the rotation,
During the rotation of the first specific performance, a state may occur in which the display content before the rotation and the display content after the rotation cannot be recognized.
In the second specific performance, after the displayed predetermined image is erased, the predetermined image having a different display content from that before the erasure is displayed,
This game machine is characterized in that the time from when the display contents before rotation become recognizable to when the display contents after rotation become recognizable in the first specific performance is different from the time from when the display contents before erasure become recognizable to when the display contents after erasure become recognizable in the second specific performance .

Images