JP7623712B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Conventionally, there are pachinko gaming machines, such as the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, that are capable of suspending the execution of a symbol-changing game and execute effects that target the suspended symbol-changing game.

JP 2003-340038 A

Nowadays, there is a demand for more ingenuity in the presentation of symbol-changing games whose execution is suspended, thereby increasing the interest of the players.
An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can enhance entertainment value.

The gaming machine that solves the above problem is capable of suspending the execution of a pattern change game, and a specific winning game is awarded after the end of a pattern change game that results in a specific win, and a special winning game is awarded after the end of a pattern change game that results in a special win, and the gaming machine is equipped with an effect execution means that executes an effect, and when the special winning game is awarded, the degree of advantage is higher than when the specific winning game is awarded, and the effect includes a specific effect that can be executed for the pattern change game whose execution is suspended, and when the specific winning game is awarded, the specific effect is a special effect that can be executed for the pattern change game whose execution is suspended, regardless of whether a game ball enters a winning hole that allows the game ball to enter in the specific winning game. When the specific winning game is awarded and there is a symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, the probability of the specific performance being executed is higher than when there is no symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, and the specific performance is executed regardless of whether there is a symbol change game resulting in the specific winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, and when the specific performance is executed when the specific winning game is awarded, the performance execution means executes a first performance which is executed regardless of whether there is a symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended. After the special effect is awarded, a second effect is executed depending on whether there is a symbol change game that will result in the special win among the symbol change games whose execution is pending. When it is decided to execute the specific effect and the specific effect is executed, even if the specific effect ends, the specific effect is not executed again until the symbol change game that was the target of the specific effect ends, even if the execution of the symbol change game that will result in the special win is newly suspended . When the special win game is awarded, the special effect can be executed for the symbol change game whose execution is pending. When the special win game is awarded, the special effect is not executed, and the special win game is suspended. The gist of the invention is that when a technique is granted, even if there is a pattern change game resulting in the specific win among the pattern change games whose execution is on hold, if there is no pattern change game resulting in the special win among the pattern change games whose execution is on hold, the special effect is not executed, and when the special win game is granted, if there is a pattern change game resulting in the special win among the pattern change games whose execution is on hold, the special effect is executed even if there is no pattern change game resulting in the specific win among the pattern change games whose execution is on hold, and the display content of the effect execution means when the specific effect is executed differs from the display content of the effect execution means when the special effect is executed.

The present invention can increase interest.

FIG. Front view of the game board. A diagram showing the probability of winning the big win lottery, the probability of winning the small win lottery, and the probability of losing. A diagram showing the types of jackpots. (a) and (b) are figures showing an area in the performance display device where a specific pattern related to a first specific pattern change game is displayed, and an area in the performance display device where a specific pattern related to a second specific pattern change game is displayed. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a read-ahead command. A diagram showing the changes in the ball you have. A timing chart showing an example in which a winning game is generated based on a winning second special pattern changing game, and control over the execution of the first special pattern changing game is interrupted. A figure showing an example of the display content of the effect display device when a special effect is executed during a jackpot game. 13A and 13B are diagrams showing an example of the display content of the effect display device when a specific effect is executed in a small win game. A timing chart showing an example in which a specific effect is executed when a small win game is awarded and a special effect is executed when a first big win game is awarded.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the gaming machine will be described. In this specification, up, down, left, right, front (front) and back (back) indicate the respective directions as seen by a player.
As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 10 (hereinafter, referred to as gaming machine 10) as a gaming machine includes a frame body 11. The frame body 11 includes an outer frame 12, a middle frame 13, and a front frame 14. The outer frame 12 is fixed to an installation facility (so-called island facility). The middle frame 13 is supported on the front side of the opening of the outer frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. A gaming board unit including a gaming board 20 is fixed to the middle frame 13. The front frame 14 is supported on the front side of the middle frame 13 so as to be openable and closable so as to cover the front side of the gaming board 20. A protective glass that covers the entire opening 14a of the front frame 14 and protects the gaming board 20 is supported on the front frame 14. In the gaming machine 10, the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 are supported on the outer frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. The gaming machine 10 includes a launch handle 16 on the front side of the front frame 14. In the gaming machine 10, gaming balls as gaming media are shot with an intensity corresponding to the amount of operation (rotation amount) of the launch handle 16. That is, the gaming machine 10 is configured so that the launch intensity of the gaming balls can be adjusted by operating the launch handle 16.

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a decorative lamp 17 on the front side of the front frame 14. The decorative lamp 17 executes effects (hereinafter referred to as light-emitting effects) by turning on, blinking, and turning off built-in light-emitting elements. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a speaker 18 that outputs sound on the front side of the front frame 14. The speaker 18 executes effects (hereinafter referred to as sound effects) by outputting sounds such as human voices, sound effects, and music.

As shown in FIG. 2, a game area 21 that is substantially circular in front view is defined on the front side of the game board 20. The game board 20 has a guide passage 21a that guides game balls launched by operating the launch handle 16 to the game area 21. The game board 20 has a backflow prevention valve 21b that prevents game balls launched into the game area 21 from returning back to the guide passage 21a. Game balls launched by operating the launch handle 16 are guided by the guide passage 21a, pass through the backflow prevention valve 21b located at the most downstream of the guide passage 21a, and reach the game area 21. Then, the game balls that reach the game area 21 flow down the game area 21.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with an information display panel 22. The information display panel 22 is provided with a first special symbol display section 22a. The first special symbol display section 22a displays a first special symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as the first special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and the first special symbol is finally displayed in a fixed and stopped manner. The information display panel 22 is provided with a second special symbol display section 22b. The second special symbol display section 22b displays a second special symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as the second special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and the second special symbol is finally displayed in a fixed and stopped manner. In the following description, the first special game and the second special game may be collectively referred to as the "special symbol changing game" or the "special game". Thus, there are a first special game and a second special game in the special game. The special game corresponds to a symbol changing game. The special symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of an internal lottery, which will be described later.

In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of the displayed pattern changes over time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" means a state in which the pattern is fixedly displayed and the type of the displayed pattern does not change. Special patterns that can be fixedly displayed in the special pattern display sections 22a and 22b include big win patterns, small win patterns, and miss patterns. When a big win pattern is fixedly displayed in a special game, the player can recognize a big win. When a small win pattern is fixedly displayed in a special game, the player can recognize a small win. When a miss pattern is fixedly displayed in a special game, the player can recognize a miss.

In this embodiment, the first special game and the second special game are configured to be able to be executed simultaneously. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute the second special game even while the first special game is being executed, and is also configured to be able to execute the first special game even while the second special game is being executed. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, both the first special game and the second special game may be executed in parallel.

In addition, in the gaming machine 10, when a player wins a jackpot lottery, a jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the winning, and then a jackpot game is generated (awarded). In the gaming machine 10, when a player wins a jackpot lottery (when a player wins a jackpot in the jackpot lottery), a jackpot game is generated (awarded) after the special game that is the subject of the jackpot ends. In the gaming machine 10, when a player wins a small jackpot lottery, a small jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the winning, and then a small jackpot game is generated (awarded). In the gaming machine 10, when a player wins a small jackpot lottery (when a player wins a small jackpot in the small jackpot lottery), a small jackpot game is generated (awarded) after the special game that is the subject of the small jackpot ends. In this embodiment, a small jackpot corresponds to a specific jackpot, and a small jackpot game corresponds to a specific jackpot game.

In the gaming machine 10, if a big win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special game while the second special game is being executed, a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the second special game, and the second special game ends. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, if a big win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the second special game while the first special game is being executed, a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special game, and the first special game ends. Also, in the gaming machine 10, if a small win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the second special game while the first special game is being executed, a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special game, and the first special game ends. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, if a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special game while the second special game is being executed, the second special game does not end, and execution of the second special game continues. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, if a losing symbol is displayed as a confirmed stop in the second special game while the first special game is being played, the first special game does not end and the playing of the first special game continues.

The information display panel 22 is provided with a first special hold display section 22c. The first special hold display section 22c displays in a recognizable manner the number of first special games whose execution is on hold because the start conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met (hereinafter referred to as the first special hold number). The information display panel 22 is provided with a second special hold display section 22d. The second special hold display section 22d displays in a recognizable manner the number of second special games whose execution is on hold because the start conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met (hereinafter referred to as the second special hold number).

The information display panel 22 includes a normal symbol display section 22e. The normal symbol display section 22e displays a normal symbol variable game (hereinafter referred to as a normal game) that displays a predetermined symbol in a variable manner and finally displays a normal symbol in a fixed stop. The normal symbols that can be displayed in a fixed stop on the normal symbol display section 22e include at least a normal win symbol that is displayed in a fixed stop in the case of a normal win, and a normal loss symbol that is displayed in a fixed stop in the case of a normal loss. In the gaming machine 10, when a normal win lottery is won, a normal win game is generated (given) after the normal game of the normal win is ended after the normal game of the normal win. In addition, the information display panel 22 includes a normal hold display section 22f. The normal hold display section 22f recognizably displays the number of normal games (hereinafter referred to as the normal hold number) whose execution is on hold because the start condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met.

For example, the information display panel 22 may also have a right-hit display section that notifies the player of the strength of the game ball being launched. The information display panel 22 may also have a round number display section that displays the number of rounds played during a jackpot game. These multiple display sections do not need to be provided on the same component, and may be provided separately on different components.

The gaming machine 10 has a center frame 23 decorated with various ornaments, located approximately in the center of the play area 21 of the play board 20. The center frame 23 has an opening 23a. The gaming machine 10 has a performance display device 25. For example, the performance display device 25 may be a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The performance display device 25 has a display area 25r in which an image is displayed. The performance display device 25 is attached to the play board 20 so that the player can view the display area 25r through the opening 23a of the center frame 23. The performance display device 25 executes a performance (hereinafter referred to as a display performance) that displays an image that resembles a specified character or letter. In this embodiment, the performance display device 25 functions as a performance execution means that executes a performance.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first start opening 26. The first start opening 26 is located below the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The first start opening 26 is always open so that a game ball can be inserted. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first start sensor SE1 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening 26. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered game ball to the back side of the game board 20 (discharges it from the game board 20 to the outside) is connected to the first start opening 26, and the first start sensor SE1 is disposed in the ball passage. When the game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, the start condition of the first special game may be established and the payout condition of the prize ball is established. When the game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, three game balls are awarded as prize balls. In this embodiment, the first special game can be executed when a game ball enters the first starting hole 26.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second start hole 27 different from the first start hole 26. The second start hole 27 is located in the lower right of the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second start sensor SE2 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a game ball that has entered the second start hole 27. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered game ball to the back side of the game board 20 is connected to the second start hole 27, and the second start sensor SE2 is arranged in the ball passage. When the game ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, the start condition of the second special game may be established and the payout condition of the prize ball is established. When the game ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, one game ball is awarded as a prize ball. In this way, in this embodiment, the second special game is configured to be able to be executed when the game ball enters the second start hole 27. The second starting hole 27 has a first variable member 28 as an opening/closing member. The first variable member 28 can be operated between an open state in which it is easy or possible to insert a game ball into the second starting hole 27, and a closed state in which it is difficult (or impossible) to insert a game ball into the second starting hole 27. The first variable member 28 operates by receiving power from a first actuator A1 (shown in FIG. 6). Hereinafter, the open state of the first variable member 28 may be referred to as "the second starting hole 27 is opened," and the closed state of the first variable member 28 may be referred to as "the second starting hole 27 is closed." In this way, the gaming machine 10 has a starting hole through which the game ball can be inserted. The starting hole in the gaming machine 10 includes a first starting hole and a second starting hole having an opening/closing member.

In this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start port 26 and the start conditions of the first special game are met, a lottery for a big win is held, but a lottery for a small win is not held. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when a game ball enters the second start port 27 and the start conditions of the second special game are met, a lottery for a big win is held, and if the big win lottery is not won, a lottery for a small win is held. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, a lottery for a small win may be held when a game ball enters at least the second start port out of the first and second start ports.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first large prize opening 29. The first large prize opening 29 is located to the right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first count sensor SE3 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the first large prize opening 29. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered gaming ball to the back side of the gaming board 20 is connected to the first large prize opening 29, and the first count sensor SE3 is disposed in the ball passage. When the gaming ball is detected by the first count sensor SE3, the payout condition for the prize ball is established. When the gaming ball is detected by the first count sensor SE3 and the payout condition for the prize ball is established, 15 gaming balls are awarded as prize balls. The first large prize opening 29 has a second variable member 30. The second variable member 30 can be operated between an open state where the game ball can enter the first large prize opening 29 and a closed state where the game ball cannot enter the first large prize opening 29. The second variable member 30 operates by receiving power from a second actuator A2 (shown in FIG. 6). When the second variable member 30 is in the open state, the game ball is allowed to enter the first large prize opening 29. When the second variable member 30 is in the closed state, the game ball is not allowed to enter the first large prize opening 29. Hereinafter, the open state of the second variable member 30 may be referred to as "the first large prize opening 29 is opened," and the closed state of the second variable member 30 may be referred to as "the first large prize opening 29 is closed."

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second large prize opening 31. The second large prize opening 31 is located in the lower right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second count sensor SE4 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 31. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered game ball to the back side of the gaming board 20 is connected to the second large prize opening 31, and the second count sensor SE4 is disposed in the ball passage. When the game ball is detected by the second count sensor SE4, the payout condition of the prize ball is established. When the game ball is detected by the second count sensor SE4 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, 15 game balls are awarded as prize balls. The second large prize opening 31 has a third variable member 32. The third variable member 32 can be operated between an open state in which the game ball can enter the second large winning opening 31 and a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the second large winning opening 31. The third variable member 32 operates by receiving power from a third actuator A3 (shown in FIG. 6). When the third variable member 32 is in the open state, the game ball is allowed to enter the second large winning opening 31. When the third variable member 32 is in the closed state, the game ball is not allowed to enter the second large winning opening 31. Hereinafter, the open state of the third variable member 32 may be referred to as "the second large winning opening 31 is opened," and the closed state of the third variable member 32 may be referred to as "the second large winning opening 31 is closed."

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a gate 33. The gate 33 is located to the right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The gate 33 has a gate opening that is always open so that gaming balls can enter the gate. A gate sensor SE5 (shown in FIG. 6) is disposed at the gate opening to detect gaming balls that enter and pass through. When a gaming ball is detected by the gate sensor SE5, the conditions for starting a normal game may be met.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first general winning opening 34 and a second general winning opening 35. The first general winning opening 34 is located to the lower left of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The second general winning opening 35 is located to the lower right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The first general winning opening 34 and the second general winning opening 35 are always open so that gaming balls can enter. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first general sensor SE6 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the first general winning opening 34, and a second general sensor SE7 (shown in FIG. 6) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the second general winning opening 35. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered gaming ball to the back side of the gaming board 20 is connected to the first general winning opening 34, and the first general sensor SE6 is arranged in the ball passage. When a game ball is detected by the first general sensor SE6, the conditions for paying out prize balls are met. When a game ball is detected by the first general sensor SE6 and the conditions for paying out prize balls are met, four game balls are awarded as prize balls. When a game ball is detected by the second general sensor SE7, the conditions for paying out prize balls are met. When a game ball is detected by the second general sensor SE7 and the conditions for paying out prize balls are met, four game balls are awarded as prize balls. General winning ports 34 and 35 are also called normal winning ports.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with an outlet 36. In this embodiment, gaming balls that do not enter the first start port 26, the second start port 27, the first large prize port 29, the second large prize port 31, the first general prize port 34, or the second general prize port 35 are discharged from the outlet 36 to the outside of the machine (discharged from the gaming board 20 to the outside). The gaming machine 10 is provided with gaming components, such as nails (gaming nails) and windmills, that change the behavior of the gaming balls flowing down the gaming area 21.

The gaming machine 10 includes a passage member 37 and a passage member 38. The passage member 37 and the passage member 38 are located in the lower right of the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The second starting hole 27 is located in the passage member 37. The first variable member 28 of the second starting hole 27 is a member that constitutes the upper surface of the passage member 37. The second large winning hole 31 is located in the passage member 37. The third variable member 32 of the second large winning hole 31 is a member that constitutes the upper surface of the passage member 37. In the game area 21, the passage member 38 is arranged such that the distance between the lower surface of the passage member 38 and the upper surface of the passage member 37 is longer than the diameter of the game ball. In the game area 21, the passage member 37 and the passage member 38 form a flow-down passage 39. In the flow-down passage 39, the second starting hole 27 is located upstream of the second large winning hole 31. In the flow-down passage 39, all game balls that do not enter the second starting hole 27 are guided to the second large winning hole 31. If a game ball enters through the ball entry hole 39a at the most upstream part of the flow-down passage 39 and does not enter either the second starting hole 27 or the second large winning hole 31, the game ball that entered through the ball entry hole 39a is discharged from the discharge hole 39b at the most downstream part of the flow-down passage 39.

The passage member 38 has a plurality of first protrusions 38a on the lower surface of the passage member 38 at a location where the first variable member 28 of the second starting port 27 and the flow-down passage 39 are formed. When a game ball flowing down (passing) the flow-down passage 39 collides with the first protrusions 38a, the flow-down speed (passing speed) of the game ball decreases. In other words, the first protrusions 38a have the function of suppressing the flow-down speed of the game ball flowing down the upper surface of the first variable member 28 of the second starting port 27. In addition, the passage member 38 has a plurality of second protrusions 38b on the lower surface of the passage member 38 at a location where the third variable member 32 of the second large winning port 31 and the flow-down passage 39 are formed. When a game ball flowing down the flow-down passage 39 collides with the second protrusions 38b, the flow-down speed of the game ball decreases. That is, the second protrusion 38b has the function of suppressing the flow speed of the game ball flowing down the upper surface of the third variable member 32 of the second large prize opening 31.

Next, the path along which the gaming ball flows in this embodiment will be described.
The gaming machine 10 configured as described above has a plurality of paths through which the gaming balls flow down in the gaming area 21 according to the launch strength of the gaming balls. The paths through which the gaming balls flow down can also be understood as the areas through which the gaming balls flow down. The plurality of paths include a first path R1 that passes through the left side of the center frame 23 (performance display device 25) to the outlet 36, and a second path R2 that passes through the right side of the center frame 23 (performance display device 25) to the outlet 36. The first path R1 and the second path R2 may overlap in part or may not overlap in whole. In the following description, the area located to the left of the center line CL that divides the gaming area 21 into left and right sides when the gaming board 20 is viewed from the front is referred to as the left side area R1a, and the area located to the right of the center line CL is referred to as the right side area R2a. The path flowing down the left region R1a corresponds to the first route R1, and the path flowing down the right region R2a corresponds to the second route R2.

By operating the launch handle 16 to adjust the launch strength of the game ball, the player can hit the game ball into the left area R1a or the right area R2a, and make the game ball enter the first start hole 26, the second start hole 27, the first large prize hole 29, the second large prize hole 31, the gate 33, the first general prize hole 34, and the second general prize hole 35. Specifically, if the game ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to a weaker level (so-called left hit), the game ball is likely to be guided down into the left area R1a and may enter the first start hole 26 or the first general prize hole 34. On the other hand, if the launch strength is adjusted to be strong and the game ball is launched (so-called right hit), the game ball is likely to flow down into the right area R2a and may enter the second start hole 27, the first large prize hole 29, the second large prize hole 31, the gate 33, and the second general prize hole 35. Therefore, it can be said that the first start hole 26 and the first general prize hole 34 are on the first route R1, and the second start hole 27, the first large prize hole 29, the second large prize hole 31, the gate 33, and the second general prize hole 35 are on the second route R2.

In this embodiment, the game ball is less likely to enter the second starting hole 27, the first large winning hole 29, the second large winning hole 31, the gate 33, or the second general winning hole 35 when it flows down the first path R1 than when it flows down the second path R2. In this embodiment, the game ball is less likely to enter the first starting hole 26 or the first general winning hole 34 when it flows down the second path R2 than when it flows down the first path R1. In the following description, the game ball is sometimes referred to as "left hit" when it is launched with a launch strength that causes the game ball to flow down the first path R1. Also, the game ball is sometimes referred to as "right hit" when it is launched with a launch strength that causes the game ball to flow down the second path R2.

In the right region R2a, the gate 33 is located upstream of the second starting gate 27, the first large prize gate 29, the second large prize gate 31, and the second general prize gate 35. In the right region R2a, the first large prize gate 29 is located upstream of the second starting gate 27, the second large prize gate 31, and the second general prize gate 35. In the right region R2a, the second starting gate 27 is located upstream of the second large prize gate 31.

Next, the gaming state of the gaming machine 10 will be described.
The gaming machine 10 has a low probability state and a high probability state as game states with different jackpot probabilities. The jackpot probability is the probability of winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery that is performed as an internal lottery. The high probability state is a game state with a higher jackpot probability than the low probability state. In the high probability state, the possibility of winning a jackpot is higher than in the low probability state. The high probability state is what is called a "probability variable state (high probability state)." In contrast, the low probability state is what is called a "non-probability variable state (non-high probability state)."

3, in the gaming machine 10, the winning probability of the jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the first starting hole 26 and the winning probability of the jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole 27 are the same (1/300) when both are in a low probability state. Similarly, the winning probability of the jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the first starting hole 26 and the winning probability of the jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole 27 are the same (10/300) when both are in a high probability state. In the gaming machine 10, the probability of a small win (the winning probability of the small win lottery) does not differ depending on whether the state is low probability or high probability. Note that in the gaming machine 10, a small win lottery is not triggered by a ball entering the first starting hole 26. In the gaming machine 10, the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole 27 is 289/300. In this way, the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole when in a non-probability variable state is the same as the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole when in a probability variable state.

In addition, when a game ball enters the first starting hole 26 in a non-probability-changing state, a lottery for a big win is held with a winning probability of 1/300, and a lottery for a small win is not held, so the probability of a miss is 299/300. In addition, when a game ball enters the first starting hole 26 in a probability-changing state, a lottery for a big win is held with a winning probability of 10/300, and a lottery for a small win is not held, so the probability of a miss is 290/300. On the other hand, when a game ball enters the second starting hole 27 in a non-probability-changing state, a lottery for a big win is held with a winning probability of 1/300, and a lottery for a small win is held with a winning probability of 289/300, so the probability of a miss is 10/300. Furthermore, if a game ball enters the second starting hole 27 during a high probability state, a lottery for a big win is held with a winning probability of 10/300, and a lottery for a small win is held with a winning probability of 289/300, so the probability of a miss is 1/300. As described above, when a game ball enters the second starting hole 27, the probability of a small win in the second special game is higher than the probability of a big win in the second special game, whether in a non-high probability state or a high probability state.

The gaming machine 10 has a non-variable shortening state and a variable shortening state as game states in which the variable time of at least the second special game of the first special game and the second special game is different. The variable shortening state is a game state in which the variable time of at least the second special game of the first special game and the second special game is shorter (or is more likely to be shorter) than in the non-variable shortening state. Note that "the variable time of at least the second special game is shorter (or is more likely to be shorter)" does not necessarily mean that the variable time of the second special game is always shorter, but may be shorter or longer, and is intended to mean that the average time of the variable time of the second special game is shorter. Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, when the variable shortening state is in effect, the variable time of both the first special game and the second special game is shorter (or is more likely to be shorter) than when the non-variable shortening state is in effect. In addition, when the variable shortening state is in effect, it is sometimes said that the variable shortening function is activated. Also, when it is in a non-variable shortening state, it is sometimes said that the variable shortening function is not working (or is not working).

In the gaming machine 10, the fluctuation time of the second special game when controlled to the non-variable shortening state exceeds a predetermined fluctuation time (e.g., 4 minutes or 8 minutes). Specifically, in this embodiment, the fluctuation time of the second special game when controlled to the non-variable shortening state is 10 minutes at least in the case of a small win and a miss. For example, the fluctuation time of the second special game when controlled to the non-variable shortening state may not exceed the predetermined fluctuation time (e.g., 1 minute) only in the case of a big win. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the fluctuation time of the second special game when controlled to the variable shortening state does not exceed the predetermined fluctuation time. Therefore, in this embodiment, the fluctuation time of the second special game when the second special game is executed in the case of a small win when controlled to the variable shortening state is shorter than the fluctuation time of the second special game when the second special game is executed in the case of a small win when controlled to the non-variable shortening state.

The gaming machine 10 has a non-open extended state and an open extended state, which are game states in which the opening time of the first variable member 28 when a normal winning game occurs is different. The open extended state is a game state in which the opening time of the first variable member 28 when a normal winning game occurs is longer than the non-open extended state. In the open extended state, the advantage of the game ball entering the second starting hole 27 is higher than the non-open extended state. In other words, the open extended state is more advantageous in terms of opening and closing the first variable member 28 as an opening and closing member than the non-open extended state. Incidentally, as a method for changing the opening time of the first variable member 28 when a normal winning game occurs, there are a method for changing the number of times the first variable member 28 is in the open state in one normal winning game, a method for changing the opening time when the first variable member 28 is in the open state, and a method for changing the total opening time during which the first variable member 28 is in the open state in one normal winning game. When it is in the open extension state, it is sometimes said that the open extension function is activated. When it is in the non-open extension state, it is sometimes said that the open extension function is not activated (or is not activated).

In addition, the game state may be configured to be controllable to have different winning probabilities in the normal winning lottery. For example, a high normal winning probability state and a low normal winning probability state may be configured to be controllable game states, and the high normal winning probability state may be a game state in which the probability of winning a normal winning lottery is higher than the low normal winning probability state. Also, the game may be configured to be controlled to the high normal winning probability state when controlled to the open extended state, and to be controlled to the low normal winning probability state when controlled to the non-open extended state.

In addition, the game state may be configured to be controllable so that the normal game has a different fluctuation time. For example, a normal shortened state and a non-normal shortened state may be configured to be controllable as game states, and the normal shortened state may be a game state in which the normal game fluctuation time is more likely to be short than the non-normal shortened state. Note that "the normal game fluctuation time is more likely to be short" does not necessarily mean that the normal game fluctuation time is always short, but may be short or long, and is intended to mean that the average normal game fluctuation time is shortened.

The game states controlled in the gaming machine 10 include "low probability state, non-variable time shortening state, non-opening extension state", "low probability state, variable time shortening state, open extension state", "high probability state, variable time shortening state, open extension state", and "high probability state, variable time shortening state, non-opening extension state". In the following description, "game state controlled to low probability state, non-variable time shortening state, non-opening extension state" may be referred to as "normal low probability state", and "game state controlled to low probability state, variable time shortening state, open extension state" may be referred to as "specific low probability state". In addition, in the following description, "game state controlled to high probability state, variable time shortening state, open extension state" may be referred to as "specific high probability state", and "game state controlled to high probability state, variable time shortening state, non-opening extension state" may be referred to as "special state". That is, in this embodiment, the game states include a normal low probability state, a specific low probability state, a specific high probability state, and a special state. The special state in this embodiment is also called a small hit rush (small hit RUSH) or a small hit rush state. In this embodiment, the normal low probability state corresponds to the normal state, and the special state corresponds to the first game state. Also, in this embodiment, at least one of the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state corresponds to the second game state. The second game state in this embodiment can also be said to be a game state controlled to an extended opening state.

Next, a jackpot in the gaming machine 10 will be described.
The gaming machine 10 has a plurality of types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. The plurality of types of jackpot symbols are classified into a first jackpot symbol, a second jackpot symbol, and a third jackpot symbol. A type of jackpot is determined for each of the plurality of types of jackpot symbols. Specifically, the first jackpot symbol is determined as the first jackpot symbol, the second jackpot symbol is determined as the second jackpot symbol, and the third jackpot symbol is determined as the third jackpot symbol. Hereinafter, a jackpot game based on a first jackpot is referred to as a "first jackpot game", a jackpot game based on a second jackpot is referred to as a "second jackpot game", and a jackpot game based on a third jackpot is referred to as a "third jackpot game". In the gaming machine 10, when the jackpot lottery is won and the first jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the winning, the first jackpot game is then generated (awarded). That is, in the gaming machine 10, when the jackpot lottery is won and the jackpot symbol is the first jackpot symbol, the first jackpot game is generated after the special game that is the first jackpot ends. In this embodiment, the first jackpot corresponds to a special win, and the first jackpot game corresponds to a special win game. In the gaming machine 10, when the jackpot lottery is won and the second jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the winning, the second jackpot game is then generated. That is, in the gaming machine 10, if the jackpot lottery is won and the jackpot symbol is the second jackpot symbol, the second jackpot game occurs after the special game resulting in the second jackpot is completed. In the gaming machine 10, if the jackpot lottery is won and the third jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the win, the third jackpot game occurs thereafter. That is, in the gaming machine 10, if the jackpot lottery is won and the jackpot symbol is the third jackpot symbol, the third jackpot game occurs after the special game resulting in the third jackpot is completed.

In the jackpot game, first, an opening performance is performed for a predetermined opening period to notify the start of the jackpot game. In the jackpot game, after the opening performance ends, a round game is performed in which the first large prize winning hole 29 is opened. The round game is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. In one round game, the first large prize winning hole 29 is open until a first open game ending condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enter the hole, or a second open game ending condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed. In the round game, a round performance is performed. Then, in the jackpot game, when the final round game ends, an ending performance is performed for a predetermined ending period to notify the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game ends with the end of the ending performance.

As shown in FIG. 4, the number of rounds of play (shown as the number of rounds in FIG. 4) is determined for each jackpot. Specifically, the number of rounds of play is determined to be "10 times" for the first jackpot. In addition, the number of rounds of play is determined to be "4 times" for the second and third jackpots.

For each jackpot, a game state after the jackpot game ends is determined. Specifically, for the first jackpot, it is determined that the game state after the jackpot game ends is controlled to a special state. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the special state, the special state ends when the end condition of the special state is met. The end condition of the special state includes an end condition that is met when the jackpot lottery is won. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the special state, if a jackpot game occurs, the special state ends. Note that in the gaming machine 10, the special state does not end even if the small jackpot lottery is won while being controlled to the special state.

For the second jackpot, it is stipulated that the game state after the jackpot game ends is controlled to a specific high probability state. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the specific high probability state, the specific high probability state ends if the end condition of the specific high probability state is met. The end condition of the specific high probability state includes an end condition that is met when the jackpot lottery is won. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the specific high probability state, if a jackpot game occurs, the specific high probability state ends. Note that in the gaming machine 10, the specific high probability state does not end even if the small jackpot lottery is won while the game is controlled to the specific high probability state.

For the third jackpot, it is stipulated that the game state after the jackpot game ends is controlled to a specific low probability state. In the gaming machine 10, after being controlled to the specific low probability state, if the end condition of the specific low probability state is met, the specific low probability state ends. The end condition of the specific low probability state includes an end condition that is met when the jackpot lottery is won. In the gaming machine 10, if a jackpot game occurs after being controlled to the specific low probability state, the specific low probability state ends. Note that in the gaming machine 10, even if the small jackpot lottery is won while being controlled to the specific low probability state, the specific low probability state does not end. In addition, the end condition of the specific low probability state includes an end condition that is met when 100 special games are completed without a jackpot game occurring after the third jackpot game ends. In the gaming machine 10, if 100 special games are completed without a jackpot game occurring after the third jackpot game ends, the specific low probability state ends and the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal low probability state.

Next, the small win in the gaming machine 10 will be described.
In a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened, and a game ball is allowed to enter the second large winning opening 31. In a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened in a predetermined opening mode. In a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened in a predetermined opening mode until a first open game end condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enters, or a second open game end condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed, is met. For example, in a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened in an opening mode in which it is opened for 0.6 seconds, closed for 0.5 seconds, and then opened for 1.2 seconds. In this way, in a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened at least once for a time that makes it easy to allow a game ball to enter the second large winning opening 31. As described above, in a big win game, the first large prize opening 29 is opened to allow a game ball to enter the first large prize opening 29, while in a small win game, the second large prize opening 31 is opened to allow a game ball to enter the second large prize opening 31.

The display effects that can be executed by the effect display device 25 in this embodiment include an effect pattern change game (hereinafter referred to as an effect game) in which effect patterns (hereinafter referred to as effect patterns) are displayed in a variable manner in multiple rows, and a combination of effect patterns is finally displayed as a fixed stop. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute an effect game using effect patterns. The effect patterns are patterns decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are also called "decorative patterns" or "decorative patterns." The effect game is performed by displaying the first, second, and third pattern rows in a variable manner (scrolling display) in the vertical direction. The effect pattern in the first row is the so-called first pattern, the effect pattern in the second row is the so-called second pattern, and the effect pattern in the third row is the so-called third pattern. In the following description, the "first column" will be referred to as the "left column" and the "first symbol" as the "left symbol", the "second column" will be referred to as the "middle column" and the "second symbol" as the "middle symbol", and the "third column" will be referred to as the "right column" and the "third symbol" as the "right symbol". In this embodiment, in principle, in each column, performance symbols that resemble the numbers [1] to [8] are displayed in a variably predetermined order.

The presentation game is performed in conjunction with the special game. That is, in this embodiment, the game is configured to be able to execute a presentation game corresponding to the currently executed symbol variation game. Specifically, the presentation game is started with the start of the special game and is ended with the end of the special game. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute a presentation game during the execution of the special game. In the presentation game, a combination of presentation patterns corresponding to the special patterns that are displayed as fixed stops in the corresponding special game is displayed as fixed stops. When a big win pattern is displayed as fixed stops in the special game, the big win pattern combination is displayed as fixed stops in the presentation game. For example, the big win pattern combination is a pattern combination in which the presentation patterns of all columns are the same, such as [777]. Also, when a small win pattern is displayed as fixed stops in the special game, the small win pattern combination is displayed as fixed stops in the presentation game. For example, the small win pattern combination is a pattern combination in which the presentation patterns of at least some columns are different from the presentation patterns of other columns, such as [123] and [426]. In addition, when a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game, a losing symbol combination is displayed as a fixed stop in the performance game. For example, a losing symbol combination is a symbol combination in which the performance symbols of at least some columns are different from the performance symbols of other columns, such as [323] or [426]. Incidentally, a small winning symbol combination may be a symbol combination that is partially or entirely common to the losing symbol combination. For example, when a symbol combination common to a small winning symbol combination and a losing symbol combination is displayed as a fixed stop in the performance game, it is difficult to identify whether it is a small winning or a losing symbol from the performance symbol. On the other hand, a small winning symbol combination may be a symbol combination different from the losing symbol combination. In this case, it is easy to identify whether it is a small winning or a losing symbol from the performance symbol. In addition, in the performance game, the performance symbol is displayed as a fixed stop once before being displayed as a fixed stop. In this specification, "temporarily stopped display" refers to a state that indicates something different from a fixed stopped display, such as a "shaking fluctuation state."

In a performance game, the display mode of the performance symbols may become a reach mode (a reach is formed), and a reach performance (also simply called a reach) may be performed. The reach mode is a state in which performance symbols imitating the same numbers are temporarily displayed in a specific column (e.g., the left column and the right column) among multiple columns, and performance symbols in a column other than the specific column (e.g., the middle column) are continuously displayed in a variable manner. There may be multiple types of reach performances in which the characters that appear and the actions of the performance symbols are different. For example, the reach performances include a normal reach performance and a super reach performance that is performed after the start of a normal reach performance. When a super reach performance is performed during the execution of a special game, the expectation of a jackpot may be higher than when only a normal reach performance is performed. Note that the reach performance in this embodiment is performed during the execution of a special game. In this manner, in this embodiment, the performance includes a reach performance.

In addition, in the gaming machine 10, a specific symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as a specific game) is executed in which a specific symbol is displayed variably on the effect display device 25 separately from the effect game, and the specific symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute a specific game using a specific symbol. In the specific game in this embodiment, a row of specific symbols is changed and executed. The specific game includes a first specific symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as a first specific game) corresponding to the first special game being executed, and a second specific symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as a second specific game) corresponding to the second special game being executed. Specifically, the first specific game is started with the start of the first special game and is ended with the end of the first special game. Similarly, the second specific game is started with the start of the second special game and is ended with the end of the second special game. Then, in the specific game, a specific symbol corresponding to the special symbol displayed as a fixed stop in the special game is displayed as a fixed stop. For example, when a big win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a special game, a big win symbol (e.g., [7]) with a specific symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a specific game. When a small win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a special game, a small win symbol (e.g., [1]) with a specific symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a specific game. When a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a special game, a losing symbol (e.g., [4]) with a specific symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in a specific game. The specific symbol may be, for example, a symbol imitating a specified figure or a symbol imitating a specified letter.

As shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b), in the performance display device 25, a specific symbol related to a first specific game is displayed in a first specific area Z1, and the first specific game is executed using the specific symbol related to the first specific game. Similarly, in the performance display device 25, a specific symbol related to a second specific game is displayed in a second specific area Z2, and the second specific game is executed using the specific symbol related to the first specific game. The specific symbol related to the first specific game is also referred to as the fourth symbol. The specific symbol related to the second specific game is also referred to as the fifth symbol.

In this way, in the gaming machine 10, the effect game and the specific game are executed on the effect display device 25. The effect game is executed corresponding to either the first special game or the second special game. Specifically, in the gaming machine 10, the effect game is executed corresponding to either the first special game or the second special game depending on the game state. In the gaming machine 10, when the game is in a normal low probability state, the effect game corresponding to the first special game is executed. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, when the game state is in a specific low probability state, a specific high probability state, or a special state, the effect game corresponding to the second special game is executed. Note that the specific game is configured to be executed corresponding to either the first special game or the second special game regardless of the game state.

As shown in FIG. 5(b), in the special state, the effect display device 25 starts the effect game with the start of the second special game, and each effect symbol is displayed in a variable manner. Note that in FIG. 5(b), the first special game is not being executed, while the second special game is being executed. Incidentally, in the special state, the effect display device 25 does not start the effect game even if the first special game is started. In other words, in the special state, when the first special game and the second special game are executed simultaneously, the effect game corresponding to the first special game is not executed, and the effect game corresponding to the second special game is executed. Note that, although the above is an example of the effect game in the special state, the effect game in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state has the same configuration. In this way, in the special state, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are executed simultaneously, the effect game corresponding to the first special game being executed is not executed, while the effect game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed.

On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, when in the normal low probability state, the presentation game corresponding to the first special game is executed, and the presentation game corresponding to the second special game is not executed. In other words, in the normal low probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the second special game is not executed, and the presentation game corresponding to the first special game is executed. In this way, in the normal low probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the second special game being executed is not executed, while the presentation game corresponding to the first special game being executed is executed.

Figure 5 (b) shows an example of the display contents of the effect display device 25 when the first special game is not being executed while the second special game is being executed in a special state. As shown in Figure 5 (b), when the special state is present, even if the first special game is not being executed, when the second special game is being executed, the second specific game is executed in the second specific area Z2, and an effect game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed. At this time, since the first special game is not being executed, the specific pattern continues to be displayed in a fixed stopped state in the first specific area Z1. Incidentally, when the first special game is executed in the special state, the effect display device 25 executes the first specific game in the first specific area Z1, but does not execute an effect game corresponding to the first special game being executed. Here, an example is given of a specific game in a special state, but whether it is the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, or the specific high probability state, the effect display device 25 executes a first specific game in the first specific area Z1 while the first special game is being executed, and executes a second specific game in the second specific area Z2 while the second special game is being executed. In this embodiment, in the special state, normal low probability state, specific low probability state, or specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the first specific game corresponding to the first special game being executed is executed, and the second specific game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed.

Next, the electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 6, the gaming machine 10 includes a main board 40 as a main control unit. The main board 40 performs various processes and outputs control information such as a control signal (control command) according to the results of the processes. The gaming machine 10 includes a sub-board 41 as a sub-control unit. The sub-board 41 performs a predetermined process based on the control information output by the main board 40. For example, the sub-board 41 performs a process for executing a light-emitting effect by the decorative lamp 17, a sound effect by the speaker 18, and a display effect by the effect display device 25. The main board 40 and the sub-board 41 are disposed on the back side of the gaming board 20. The main board 40 and the sub-board 41 are included in the gaming board unit. In the gaming machine 10, the main board 40 and the sub-board 41 can be said to be disposed inside the machine. The main board 40 is connected to the sub-board 41.

First, the main board 40 will be described.
The main board 40 includes a main CPU 40a, a main ROM 40b, and a main RAM 40c. The main CPU 40a executes a control program (main control program) in the main ROM 40b to perform various processes.

The main ROM 40b stores the main control program, the lottery table and the judgment value used in the predetermined lottery. For example, the main ROM 40b stores the jackpot judgment value used in the jackpot lottery. The jackpot judgment value includes a high probability jackpot judgment value and a common jackpot judgment value. In the gaming machine 10, only the common jackpot judgment value is used in the jackpot lottery when the probability is low, while both the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value are used in the jackpot lottery when the probability is high. For example, the main ROM 40b stores the jackpot pattern judgment value used to determine the jackpot pattern when the jackpot lottery is won. The jackpot pattern judgment value includes a first jackpot pattern judgment value, a second jackpot pattern judgment value, and a third jackpot pattern judgment value. Details will be described later, but in the gaming machine 10, when determining the jackpot pattern, if the value of the acquired random number matches the first jackpot pattern determination value, the first jackpot is determined as the type of jackpot. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, when determining the jackpot pattern, if the value of the acquired random number matches the second jackpot pattern determination value, the second jackpot is determined as the type of jackpot. Also, in the gaming machine 10, when determining the jackpot pattern, if the value of the acquired random number matches the third jackpot pattern determination value, the third jackpot is determined as the type of jackpot. In addition, the main ROM 40b stores the performance determination value used in the performance lottery. In the performance lottery, a decision is made as to whether to execute a reach performance. For this reason, the performance lottery can also be called a reach lottery.

In addition, for example, the main ROM 40b stores a plurality of types of fluctuation patterns. The plurality of types of fluctuation patterns are associated with a fluctuation time (fluctuation time of the special game) from the start of the special game to the end of the special game. The fluctuation pattern can be said to be information capable of identifying the fluctuation time of the special game. The fluctuation pattern may be information capable of identifying a part or all of the performance contents of the performance game performed from the start of the special game to the end of the special game. The fluctuation patterns include, for example, a big win fluctuation pattern, a small win fluctuation pattern, and a miss fluctuation pattern. The big win fluctuation pattern is associated with a performance content in which the big win pattern by the performance pattern is finally displayed as a fixed stop after the reach performance as the performance content of the performance game. The small win fluctuation pattern is associated with a performance content in which the small win pattern by the performance pattern is finally displayed as a fixed stop without going through the reach performance as the performance content of the performance game. In addition, the small win fluctuation pattern may have a fluctuation pattern associated with a performance content in which the performance game is finally displayed as a fixed stop after the reach performance. There are two types of loss variation patterns: a no-reach variation pattern and a reach-to-miss variation pattern. A no-reach variation pattern is associated with a performance content of a performance game in which a loss symbol combination is finally displayed as a confirmed stop without going through a reach performance. A loss-to-reach variation pattern is associated with a performance content of a performance game in which a reach performance is finally displayed as a confirmed stop.

There are fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a fluctuation shortening state and fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a non-fluctuation shortening state. The fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a fluctuation shortening state and the fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a non-fluctuation shortening state are partially or entirely different. The fluctuation time determined in a fluctuation shortening state is shorter (or is often shorter) than the fluctuation time determined in a fluctuation pattern that can be determined in a non-fluctuation shortening state. In the gaming machine 10, a fluctuation shortening state is realized by determining a fluctuation pattern from a fluctuation pattern table in which one or more fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a fluctuation shortening state are defined. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, a non-fluctuation shortening state is realized by determining a fluctuation pattern from a fluctuation pattern table in which one or more fluctuation patterns that can be determined in a non-fluctuation shortening state are defined.

The variation patterns include a variation pattern for the first special game that can be determined when the first special game is executed, and a variation pattern for the second special game that can be determined when the second special game is executed. The variation patterns for the first special game and the variation patterns for the second special game differ in part or in whole. Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, the first special game may result in a big win, but may not result in a small win. Therefore, the gaming machine 10 does not have a small win variation pattern for the first special game.

As described above, the fluctuation patterns include a jackpot fluctuation pattern for the first special game when in a non-variable shortening state, a jackpot fluctuation pattern for the first special game when in a variable shortening state, a jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a non-variable shortening state, and a jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a variable shortening state. The fluctuation patterns also include a small jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a non-variable shortening state, and a small jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a variable shortening state. The fluctuation patterns also include a no-miss reach fluctuation pattern for the first special game when in a non-variable shortening state, and a no-miss reach fluctuation pattern for the first special game when in a variable shortening state. The fluctuation patterns also include a no-miss reach fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a non-variable shortening state, and a no-miss reach fluctuation pattern for the second special game when in a variable shortening state. In addition, there are fluctuation patterns including a fluctuation pattern with a miss reach for the first special game when in a non-shortened state, and a fluctuation pattern with a miss reach for the first special game when in a shortened state. In addition, there are fluctuation patterns including a fluctuation pattern with a miss reach for the second special game when in a non-shortened state, and a fluctuation pattern with a miss reach for the second special game when in a shortened state.

The main RAM 40c is configured to be capable of storing various information that can be rewritten as appropriate during operation of the gaming machine 10. Information stored in the main RAM 40c includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The main board 40 is configured to be capable of generating random numbers. For example, the random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers by mounting on the main board 40 a random number generation circuit that updates the value of the random number at predetermined cycles, or as software random numbers by the main CPU 40a updating the value of the random number at predetermined control cycles.

The first start sensor SE1, the second start sensor SE2, the first count sensor SE3, the second count sensor SE4, the gate sensor SE5, the first general sensor SE6, and the second general sensor SE7 are connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 40a is configured to be able to input detection signals output by the various sensors SE1 to SE7 via a port. The information display panel 22 is connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 40a is able to control the display contents of the information display panel 22 via a drive circuit. The first actuator A1, the second actuator A2, and the third actuator A3 are connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 40a is able to control the operation of the first actuator A1, the operation of the second actuator A2, and the operation of the third actuator A3 via a drive circuit.

Next, the sub-substrate 41 will be described.
The sub-board 41 includes a sub-CPU 41a, a sub-ROM 41b, and a sub-RAM 41c. For example, the sub-CPU 41a executes a control program (sub-control program) in the sub-ROM 41b to perform various processes (for example, processes related to performance). The sub-ROM 41b stores the sub-control program, a lottery table used in the lottery, and a judgment value. The sub-ROM 41b stores display performance data that can specify the mode (content) of the display performance in the performance display device 25. The sub-ROM 41b stores light-emitting performance data that can specify the mode (content) of the light-emitting performance in the decorative lamp 17. The sub-ROM 41b stores sound performance data that can specify the mode (content) of the sound performance in the speaker 18.

The sub-RAM 41c is configured to be capable of storing various information that can be rewritten as appropriate during operation of the gaming machine 10. Information stored in the sub-RAM 41c includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The sub-board 41 is configured to be capable of generating random numbers. For example, the random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers by mounting on the sub-board 41 a random number generation circuit that updates the value of the random number at a predetermined cycle, or may be generated as software random numbers by the sub-CPU 41a updating the value of the random number at a predetermined control cycle.

The decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 are connected to the sub-board 41. The sub-CPU 41a is capable of controlling the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 via the drive circuit.

The control contents executed by the main CPU 40a and the secondary CPU 41a will be described below. First, various processes executed by the main CPU 40a will be described.
First, the special symbol input process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described.

In the special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a performs a first special symbol input process. Furthermore, when the main CPU 40a finishes the first special symbol input process, it performs a second special symbol input process. Furthermore, in the special symbol input process, when the main CPU 40a finishes the second special symbol input process, it ends the special symbol input process.

In the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a judges whether a game ball has entered the first start hole 26 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the first start sensor SE1 (hereinafter referred to as the first input judgment). If the judgment result of the first input judgment is negative, the main CPU 40a ends the first special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the judgment result of the first input judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment) (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved judgment). If the judgment result of the first reserved judgment is negative, the main CPU 40a ends the first special symbol input process.

If the result of the first hold judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a adds 1 to the first special hold number to update it. The main CPU 40a also controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated first special hold number. The main CPU 40a stores control information (hereinafter referred to as the first hold number command) capable of identifying the updated first special hold number in the output buffer. If the result of the first hold judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a acquires the random number generated in the main board 40 and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main RAM 40c. At this time, the main CPU 40a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the first special game in the main RAM 40c, the execution of the first special game is suspended until the execution condition of the first special game is met. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to suspend the execution of the first special game. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number by a predetermined method. For example, the random number may be a winning lottery random number used in the big win lottery and the small win lottery, a pattern random number used to determine the big win pattern, a variation pattern random number used to determine the variation pattern, a performance lottery random number used in the performance lottery (reach lottery), etc. Then, in the first special pattern input process, the main CPU 40a performs a look-ahead command generation process. Then, in the first special pattern input process, when the main CPU 40a finishes the look-ahead command generation process, it ends the first special pattern input process. The look-ahead command generation process in the first special pattern input process will be explained later together with the look-ahead command generation process in the second special pattern input process described later.

In the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a judges whether a game ball has entered the second start hole 27 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start sensor SE2 (hereinafter referred to as the second input judgment). If the judgment result of the second input judgment is negative, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the judgment result of the second input judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a judges whether the second special reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment) (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved judgment). If the judgment result of the second reserved judgment is negative, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol input process.

If the result of the second reservation judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a adds 1 to the second special reservation number to update it. The main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated second special reservation number. The main CPU 40a also stores control information (hereinafter referred to as the second reservation number command) capable of identifying the updated second special reservation number in the output buffer. If the result of the second reservation judgment is positive, the main CPU 40a acquires the random number generated in the main board 40, stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main RAM 40c, and ends the special symbol input process. At this time, the main CPU 40a stores the random number information for the second special game and the storage order of the random number information so that it can be identified. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the second special game in the main RAM 40c, the execution of the second special game is suspended until the execution condition of the second special game is established. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to suspend the execution of the second special game. As described above, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to suspend the execution of the special game (symbol change game). After that, in the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a performs a look-ahead command generation process. Then, in the second special symbol input process, when the main CPU 40a finishes the look-ahead command generation process, it ends the second special symbol input process.

Here, the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process and the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process will be described.
First, the read-ahead command generated in the read-ahead command generation process will be described.

As shown in FIG. 7, the look-ahead commands generated in the look-ahead command generation process are classified into look-ahead commands SC1 to SC12. The look-ahead command SC1 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the common jackpot determination value, and the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the first jackpot pattern determination value. The look-ahead command SC2 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the common jackpot determination value, and the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the second jackpot pattern determination value. The look-ahead command SC3 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the common jackpot determination value, and the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the third jackpot pattern determination value. The look-ahead command SC4 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot determination value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the first jackpot pattern determination value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that matches the performance determination value. The look-ahead command SC5 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot judgment value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the first jackpot pattern judgment value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that does not match the performance judgment value (shown as not matching in FIG. 7). The look-ahead command SC6 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot judgment value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the second jackpot pattern judgment value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that matches the performance judgment value. The look-ahead command SC7 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot judgment value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the second jackpot pattern judgment value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that does not match the performance judgment value. The look-ahead command SC8 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot determination value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the third jackpot pattern determination value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that matches the performance determination value. The look-ahead command SC9 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number is a value that matches the high probability jackpot determination value, the value of the pattern random number is a value that matches the third jackpot pattern determination value, and the value of the performance lottery random number is a value that does not match the performance determination value.

The look-ahead command SC10 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the winning judgment values, and the value of the performance lottery random number matches the performance judgment value. Note that "when the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the winning judgment values" here differs between the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process and the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process. In the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, "when the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the winning judgment values" means that the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the common jackpot judgment value, the high probability jackpot judgment value, and the small jackpot judgment value. On the other hand, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, "when the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the winning judgment values" means that the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value. The look-ahead command SC11 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number does not match any of the winning judgment values, and the value of the performance lottery random number does not match the performance judgment value. The look-ahead command SC12 can be generated only in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process. The look-ahead command SC12 is generated when the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small win judgment value. In this embodiment, a big win lottery is performed in response to the ball entering the first starting hole 26, but a small win lottery is not performed in response to the ball entering the first starting hole 26. Therefore, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, no judgment is made as to whether the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small win judgment value, and the look-ahead command SC12 is not generated.

In the look-ahead command generation process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command based on the value of the random number acquired in the special symbol input process and stores it in the output buffer. Specifically, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command based on the values of at least some of the random numbers among the winning lottery random number, the pattern random number, and the performance lottery random number acquired in the first special symbol input process and stores it in the output buffer. In addition, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command that can be identified as a look-ahead command corresponding to the first special game and stores it in the output buffer. In addition, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command that can be identified as the first special reserved number and stores it in the output buffer. For example, when the first special reserved number is "3" and a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC1 is generated in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command SC1 that can be identified as corresponding to the first special game and that can be identified as the first special reserved number being "3".

Similarly, in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command based on the values of at least some of the random numbers among the winning lottery random number, the pattern random number, and the performance lottery random number obtained in the second special symbol input process, and stores it in the output buffer. Also, in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command that can be identified as a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game, and stores it in the output buffer. Also, in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command that can be identified as the second special reserved number, and stores it in the output buffer.

The following describes the control related to the generation of the look-ahead command in the look-ahead command generation process. Note that in the following description, the "acquired random number" refers to the random number acquired in the first special symbol input process in the case of the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, and refers to the random number acquired in the second special symbol input process in the case of the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process.

In the look-ahead command generation process, if the value of the acquired winning lottery random number matches the common jackpot determination value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1 to SC3. Specifically, if the value of the acquired pattern random number matches the first jackpot pattern determination value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1. If the value of the acquired pattern random number matches the second jackpot pattern determination value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC2. If the value of the acquired pattern random number matches the third jackpot pattern determination value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC3.

In the look-ahead command generation process, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC4 to SC9 when the value of the acquired winning random number matches the high-probability jackpot judgment value. In particular, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC4 and SC5 when the value of the acquired symbol random number matches the first jackpot symbol judgment value. Specifically, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC4 when the value of the acquired performance random number matches the performance judgment value. On the other hand, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC5 when the value of the acquired performance random number does not match the performance judgment value. In addition, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC6 and SC7 when the value of the acquired symbol random number matches the second jackpot symbol judgment value. Specifically, when the value of the acquired random number of random effects matches the performance judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC6. On the other hand, when the value of the acquired random number of random effects does not match the performance judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC7. Also, when the value of the acquired random number of patterns matches the third jackpot pattern judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as either a look-ahead command SC8 or SC9. Specifically, when the value of the acquired random number of random effects matches the performance judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC8. On the other hand, when the value of the acquired random number of random effects does not match the performance judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC9.

In the look-ahead command generation process, if the value of the acquired winning lottery random number does not match any of the winning judgment values, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC10 and SC11. Specifically, in the look-ahead command generation process in the first special symbol input process, if the value of the acquired winning lottery random number does not match any of the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC10 and SC11. On the other hand, in the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, if the value of the acquired winning lottery random number does not match any of the common jackpot judgment value, the high probability jackpot judgment value, and the small jackpot judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC10 and SC11. If the value of the acquired performance lottery random number matches the performance judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC10. On the other hand, if the value of the obtained random number for effect selection does not match the effect judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC11. In the look-ahead command generation process in the second special symbol input process, if the value of the obtained random number for winning selection matches the small win judgment value, the main CPU 40a generates a look-ahead command classified as a look-ahead command SC12.

Next, the special symbol start process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described.
In the special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not a winning game (big win game, small win game) is in progress. If a winning game is in progress, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol start process. On the other hand, if a winning game is not in progress, the main CPU 40a performs a first execution judgment. In the first execution judgment, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not a first special game is in progress. Then, if it is judged in the first execution judgment that the first special game is in progress, the main CPU 40a performs a second execution judgment. In the second execution judgment, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not a second special game is in progress. On the other hand, if it is judged in the first execution judgment that the first special game is not in progress, the main CPU 40a performs a first reservation judgment. In the first reservation judgment, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not the first special reservation number stored in the main RAM 40c is 1 or more. When the first reservation judgment determines that the first special reservation number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 40a performs a second execution judgment. On the other hand, when the first reservation judgment determines that the first special reservation number is 1 or more, the main CPU 40a performs a first special symbol start process related to the execution of the first special game. After performing the first special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a performs a second execution judgment.

If the second execution judgment determines that the second special game is being executed, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol start processing. On the other hand, if the second execution judgment determines that the second special game is not being executed, the main CPU 40a performs a second hold judgment. In the second hold judgment, the main CPU 40a determines whether the second special hold number stored in the main RAM 40c is 1 or more. If the second hold judgment determines that the second special hold number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol start processing. On the other hand, if the second hold judgment determines that the second special hold number is 1 or more, the main CPU 40a performs a second special symbol start processing related to the execution of the second special game. After performing the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 40a ends the special symbol start processing.

Here, the first special pattern start process will be explained.
In the first special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a subtracts 1 from the first special reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c to update it. The main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated first special reserved number is displayed. The main CPU 40a also stores a first reserved number command capable of identifying the updated first special reserved number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 40a reads out the first stored random number information from the main RAM 40c among the random number information for the first special game. After reading out the first random number information, the main CPU 40a erases the first stored random number information from the main RAM 40c. Then, the main CPU 40a performs a jackpot lottery process by referring to information capable of identifying whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state (hereinafter referred to as a probability state flag) among the information capable of identifying the game state stored in the main RAM 40c.

In the jackpot lottery process, the main CPU 40a performs a jackpot lottery based on the value of the winning lottery random number that can be identified from the read random number information and the jackpot judgment value stored in the main ROM 40b. If the probability is high, the main CPU 40a performs a jackpot lottery using the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value, while if the probability is low, the main CPU 40a performs a jackpot lottery using the common jackpot judgment value. The main CPU 40a determines whether the value of the winning lottery random number matches the jackpot judgment value, and performs a jackpot lottery. In this embodiment, if the value of the winning lottery random number matches the jackpot judgment value, it is determined that the jackpot lottery has been won (a jackpot has been won), and if the value of the winning lottery random number does not match the jackpot judgment value, it is determined that the jackpot lottery has not been won (no win). If the jackpot lottery is won, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot lottery process and executes the jackpot game process. On the other hand, if the jackpot lottery is not won, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot lottery process and executes the loss game process.

Here, the jackpot game processing in the first special symbol start processing will be explained.
The main CPU 40a determines the jackpot symbol based on the symbol random number that can be specified from the read random number information and the jackpot symbol determination value stored in the main ROM 40b. When the value of the symbol random number matches the first jackpot symbol determination value, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot symbol to be the first jackpot symbol. When the value of the symbol random number matches the second jackpot symbol determination value, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot symbol to be the second jackpot symbol. When the value of the symbol random number matches the third jackpot symbol determination value, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot symbol to be the third jackpot symbol. In addition, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot fluctuation pattern based on the value of the fluctuation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information. At this time, the main CPU 40a refers to information (hereinafter referred to as the shortened state flag) that can identify whether the game state is a non-variation shortened state or a variation shortened state among the information that can identify the game state stored in the main RAM 40c. Then, if the game state is a non-variation shortened state, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot variation pattern for the first special game when the game state is a non-variation shortened state. On the other hand, if the game state is a variation shortened state, the main CPU 40a determines the jackpot variation pattern for the first special game when the game state is a variation shortened state. As a result, the main CPU 40a determines a variation pattern with a shorter variation time (or is easier to determine a variation pattern with a shorter variation time) when the game state is a variation shortened state compared to when the game state is a non-variation shortened state. After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot game process, and stores the control information (hereinafter referred to as the symbol command) that can identify the determined special symbol and the control information (hereinafter referred to as the variation pattern command) that can identify the determined variation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the first special symbol start process.

Next, the losing game process in the first special symbol start process will be described.
The main CPU 40a determines the losing symbol. The main CPU 40a also performs a lottery based on the value of the lottery random number that can be specified from the read random number information and the lottery judgment value stored in the main ROM 40b. The main CPU 40a determines that the lottery has been won when the lottery random number and the judgment value match, and determines that the lottery has not been won (not won) when the lottery random number and the judgment value do not match. The main CPU 40a determines a variation pattern with a losing reach when the lottery has been won based on the value of the variation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information, while determining a variation pattern without a losing reach when the lottery has not been won. At this time, the main CPU 40a refers to the shortened state flag. Then, when the lottery is in a non-variable shortened state and the lottery is won, the main CPU 40a determines a variation pattern with a losing reach for the first special game when the lottery is in a non-variable shortened state. On the other hand, when the main CPU 40a is in the non-variation shortening state and does not win the performance lottery, it determines a variation pattern without a losing reach for the first special game in the non-variation shortening state. Also, when the main CPU 40a is in the variation shortening state and wins the performance lottery, it determines a variation pattern with a losing reach for the first special game in the variation shortening state. On the other hand, when the main CPU 40a is in the variation shortening state and does not win the performance lottery, it determines a variation pattern without a losing reach for the first special game in the variation shortening state. As a result, when the main CPU 40a is in the variation shortening state, it determines a variation pattern with a short variation time (or it is easy to determine a variation pattern with a short variation time) compared to when it is in the non-variation shortening state. After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern, the main CPU 40a ends the losing game process and stores the symbol command capable of identifying the determined special symbol and the variation pattern command capable of identifying the determined variation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the first special pattern start process.

Next, the second special symbol start process will be described.
In the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a updates the second special reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c by subtracting 1. The main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated second special reserved number is displayed. The main CPU 40a also stores a second reserved number command capable of identifying the updated second special reserved number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 40a reads out the first stored random number information from the main RAM 40c among the random number information for the second special game. After reading out the first random number information, the main CPU 40a erases the first stored random number information from the main RAM 40c. The main CPU 40a then performs the jackpot lottery process by referring to the probability state flag.

In the jackpot lottery process in the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a performs the same control as the jackpot lottery process in the first special symbol start process described above. However, if the jackpot lottery is won in the jackpot lottery process in the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot lottery process and executes the jackpot game process. On the other hand, if the jackpot lottery is not won in the jackpot lottery process in the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot lottery process and executes the small jackpot lottery process.

The jackpot game processing in the second special symbol start processing will be explained.
The main CPU 40a performs the same control as the jackpot game process in the first special symbol start process described above. However, if the main CPU 40a is in a non-variation shortening state, it determines the jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when the non-variation shortening state is in effect. On the other hand, if the main CPU 40a is in a variation shortening state, it determines the jackpot fluctuation pattern for the second special game when the variation shortening state is in effect. As a result, the main CPU 40a determines a fluctuation pattern with a shorter fluctuation time (or is easier to determine a fluctuation pattern with a shorter fluctuation time) when the variation shortening state is in effect, compared to when the non-variation shortening state is in effect. After determining the special symbol and the fluctuation pattern, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot game process, and stores the symbol command capable of identifying the determined special symbol and the fluctuation pattern command capable of identifying the determined fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the second special symbol start process.

In the small win lottery process, the main CPU 40a performs a small win lottery based on the value of the winning lottery random number that can be identified from the read random number information (the value of the winning lottery random number used in the big win lottery process) and the small win judgment value stored in the main ROM 40b. The main CPU 40a determines whether the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small win judgment value, and performs a small win lottery. In this embodiment, if the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small win judgment value, it is considered that the small win lottery has been won (a small win has been won), and if the value of the winning lottery random number does not match the small win judgment value, it is considered that the small win lottery has not been won (no win has been won). Then, if the small win lottery is won, the main CPU 40a ends the small win lottery process and executes the small win game process. On the other hand, if the small win lottery is not won, that is, if the player does not win a big win in the big win lottery and does not win a small win in the small win lottery, the main CPU 40a ends the small win lottery process and executes the loss game process.

The small win game processing will be explained.
The main CPU 40a determines the small winning symbol. The main CPU 40a also determines the small winning variation pattern based on the value of the variation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information. At this time, the main CPU 40a refers to the shortened state flag. Then, if the main CPU 40a is in a non-variation shortened state, it determines the small winning variation pattern for the second special game when the variation shortened state is in effect. On the other hand, if the main CPU 40a is in a variation shortened state, it determines the small winning variation pattern for the second special game when the variation shortened state is in effect. As a result, the main CPU 40a determines a variation pattern with a shorter variation time (or is easier to determine a variation pattern with a shorter variation time) when the variation shortened state is in effect, compared to when the variation shortened state is in effect. After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern, the main CPU 40a ends the small winning game process, and stores the symbol command that can specify the determined special symbol and the variation pattern command that can specify the determined variation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the second special symbol start process.

In the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 40a performs the same control as the loss game processing in the first special symbol start processing described above. However, in the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, if the main CPU 40a is in a non-variable shortening state and has won the performance lottery, it determines a loss reach-with fluctuation pattern for the second special game in the non-variable shortening state. On the other hand, in the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, if the main CPU 40a is in a non-variable shortening state and has not won the performance lottery, it determines a loss reach-without fluctuation pattern for the second special game in the non-variable shortening state. Also, in the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, if the main CPU 40a is in a variable shortening state and has won the performance lottery, it determines a loss reach-with fluctuation pattern for the second special game in the variable shortening state. On the other hand, in the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, when the main CPU 40a is in the fluctuation shortening state and does not win the performance lottery, it determines the fluctuation pattern without a loss reach for the second special game in the fluctuation shortening state. As a result, when the main CPU 40a is in the fluctuation shortening state, it determines a fluctuation pattern with a shorter fluctuation time (or it is easier to determine a fluctuation pattern with a shorter fluctuation time) compared to when the main CPU 40a is in the non-fluctuation shortening state. After determining the special symbol and the fluctuation pattern in the loss game processing, the main CPU 40a ends the loss game processing and stores the symbol command that can specify the determined special symbol and the fluctuation pattern command that can specify the determined fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 40a ends the second special symbol start processing.

In the following description, the fluctuation pattern command stored in the output buffer in the first special symbol start process may be referred to as the first fluctuation pattern command, and the fluctuation pattern command stored in the output buffer in the second special symbol start process may be referred to as the second fluctuation pattern command. The first fluctuation pattern command can be considered as control information capable of identifying a fluctuation pattern related to the first special game. On the other hand, the second fluctuation pattern command can be considered as control information capable of identifying a fluctuation pattern related to the second special game.

When the first special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 40a performs a process other than the first special symbol start process and executes the first special game. Specifically, when the first special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 40a controls to start the first special game based on the first special symbol start process. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to cause the first special symbol display section 22a to variably display a predetermined symbol. The main CPU 40a times the variation time associated with the variation pattern determined in the first special symbol start process. Then, when the variation time associated with the variation pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 40a controls to end the first special game based on the first special symbol start process. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to cause the special symbol determined in the first special symbol start process to be displayed in a fixed, stopped state in the first special symbol display section 22a. In addition, when the change time corresponding to the change pattern determined in the first special symbol start process has elapsed, the main CPU 40a stores in the output buffer a first game end command for displaying the symbol combination of the performance symbols and the specific symbol of the specific game in a fixed stop. In this embodiment, the control by the main CPU 40a to execute the first special game corresponds to the first control regarding the execution of the first special symbol change game. The main CPU 40a controls to start the first special game by starting the first control, and controls to end the first special game by ending the first control. Incidentally, when the second special game becomes a jackpot during the execution of the first special game and the second special symbol display section 22b displays the jackpot symbol in a fixed stop, the main CPU 40a forcibly ends the first special game being executed and displays the losing symbol in the first special symbol display section 22a in a fixed stop. That is, if the second special game resulting in a big win ends during the execution of the first special game, the main CPU 40a interrupts the first control and forcibly ends the first special game being executed. Also, if the second special game results in a small win during the execution of the first special game and the second special pattern display section 22b displays a small win pattern as a confirmed stop, the main CPU 40a forcibly ends the first special game being executed and displays a losing pattern as a confirmed stop on the first special pattern display section 22a. That is, if the second special game resulting in a small win ends during the execution of the first special game, the main CPU 40a interrupts the first control and forcibly ends the first special game being executed.

When the second special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 40a performs a process other than the second special symbol start process and executes a second special game. Specifically, when the second special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 40a controls to start a second special game based on the second special symbol start process. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to cause the second special symbol display section 22b to variably display a predetermined symbol. The main CPU 40a times the variation time associated with the variation pattern determined in the second special symbol start process. Then, when the variation time associated with the variation pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 40a controls to end the second special game based on the second special symbol start process. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to cause the special symbol determined in the second special symbol start process to be fixedly displayed in the second special symbol display section 22b. In addition, when the change time corresponding to the change pattern determined in the second special symbol start process has elapsed, the main CPU 40a stores in the output buffer a second game end command for displaying the symbol combination of the performance symbols and the specific symbol of the specific game in a fixed stop. In this embodiment, the control by the main CPU 40a to execute the second special game corresponds to the second control regarding the execution of the second special symbol change game. The main CPU 40a controls to start the second special game by starting the second control, and controls to end the second special game by ending the second control. Incidentally, when the first special game becomes a jackpot during the execution of the second special game and the first special symbol display unit 22a displays the jackpot symbol in a fixed stop, the main CPU 40a forcibly ends the second special game being executed and displays the losing symbol in the second special symbol display unit 22b in a fixed stop. That is, if the first special game resulting in a small win ends while the second special game is being executed, the main CPU 40a interrupts the second control and forcibly ends the second special game being executed. As described above, the main CPU 40a is capable of performing the first control regarding the execution of the first special game and the second control regarding the execution of the second special game. In this embodiment, the control by the main CPU 40a to execute the special game corresponds to the control regarding the execution of the pattern change game, and the main CPU 40a realizes a function as a game control means capable of controlling the execution of the pattern change game.

Next, the big win processing performed by the main CPU 40a will be described.
The main CPU 40a performs a jackpot process after the special game of the jackpot is completed. The main CPU 40a specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (i.e., the type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start process. Then, the main CPU 40a starts control to generate the specified type of jackpot game after the special game of the jackpot is completed. Therefore, the main CPU 40a generates a jackpot game by executing the jackpot process. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a jackpot game is generated after a jackpot is won. Note that generating a jackpot game corresponds to awarding a jackpot game. If the jackpot symbol determined in the special symbol start process is the first jackpot symbol, the main CPU 40a awards the first jackpot game after the special game of the first jackpot is completed. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the jackpot symbol determined in the special symbol start process is the first jackpot symbol, the first jackpot game is awarded after the special game resulting in the first jackpot is completed. If the jackpot symbol determined in the special symbol start process is the second jackpot symbol, the main CPU 40a awards the second jackpot game after the special game resulting in the second jackpot is completed. If the jackpot symbol determined in the special symbol start process is the third jackpot symbol, the main CPU 40a awards the third jackpot game after the special game resulting in the third jackpot is completed.

In the jackpot process, the main CPU 40a stores an opening command in the output buffer. When the main CPU 40a stores the opening command in the output buffer, it times the opening time. In addition, when the opening time has elapsed, the main CPU 40a performs a process to execute a round game. That is, the main CPU 40a controls the second actuator A2 so that the first large prize winning hole 29 opens according to the opening mode (opening pattern), and starts a round game. After starting a round game, when the first open game ending condition or the second open game ending condition is established, the main CPU 40a controls the second actuator A2 so that the first large prize winning hole 29 is closed, and ends the round game. The main CPU 40a repeats the process to execute a round game until the upper limit number of round games set for the jackpot game is ended. The main CPU 40a stores a round command in the output buffer every time a round game starts. In addition, when the final round of play ends, the main CPU 40a stores an ending command in the output buffer. When the main CPU 40a stores the ending command in the output buffer, it starts timing the ending time. Then, when the ending time has elapsed, the main CPU 40a ends the jackpot processing.

Next, the small win processing performed by the main CPU 40a will be described.
The main CPU 40a performs small win processing after the special game of the small win is completed. In the small win processing, the main CPU 40a starts control to generate a small win game after the special game of the small win is completed. Therefore, the main CPU 40a generates a small win game by executing the small win processing. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a small win game is generated after a small win is won. Note that generating a small win game corresponds to awarding a small win game. That is, the main CPU 40a awards a small win game after the special game of the small win is completed. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a small win game is awarded after the special game resulting in a small win is completed. When generating a small win game, the main CPU 40a stores control information indicating that a small win game is generated (hereinafter, referred to as a small win generation command) in the output buffer.

When a small win game is generated in the small win processing, the main CPU 40a controls the third actuator A3 so that the second large winning opening 31 opens for a maximum of 0.6 seconds, then closes for 0.5 seconds, and then opens for a maximum of 1.2 seconds. After generating a small win game, the main CPU 40a controls the third actuator A3 so that the second large winning opening 31 closes when the first open game ending condition or the second open game ending condition is met, and ends the small win processing.

Next, the game status processing performed by the main CPU 40a will be described.
The main RAM 40c stores information that can identify the game state. As described above, the information that can identify the game state includes a probability state flag that can identify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state. The information that can identify the game state includes information that can identify whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state (hereinafter, referred to as an extension state flag). As described above, the information that can identify the game state includes a shortened state flag. In this embodiment, information that can identify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state, information that can identify whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state, and information that can identify whether the game state is a variable shortened state or a non-variable shortened state are separated, but some or all of the information may be common information. For example, a single piece of information may be configured to identify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state, whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state, and whether the game state is a variable shortened state or a non-variable shortened state.

When controlling to a low probability state, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can identify a low probability state. When the probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a low probability state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify a low probability state in the output buffer. When controlling to a high probability state, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can identify a high probability state. When the probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a high probability state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify a high probability state in the output buffer. When controlling to a non-open extended state, the main CPU 40a sets the extended state flag to a value that can identify a non-open extended state. When the extended state flag is set to a value that can identify a non-open extended state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify a non-open extended state in the output buffer. When controlling to an open extended state, the main CPU 40a sets the extended state flag to a value that can identify an open extended state. When the extended state flag is set to a value that can identify an open extended state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify an open extended state in the output buffer. Furthermore, when controlling to a non-variable shortening state, the main CPU 40a sets the shortening state flag to a value that can identify the non-variable shortening state. When the shortening state flag is set to a value that can identify the non-variable shortening state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify the non-variable shortening state in the output buffer. When controlling to a variable shortening state, the main CPU 40a sets the shortening state flag to a value that can identify the variable shortening state. When the shortening state flag is set to a value that can identify the variable shortening state, the main CPU 40a stores control information that can identify the variable shortening state in the output buffer.

After the first jackpot is reached, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can identify a high probability state, sets the extension state flag to a value that can identify a non-open extension state, and sets the shortened state flag to a value that can identify a variable shortened state. After the second jackpot is reached, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can identify a high probability state, sets the extension state flag to a value that can identify an open extension state, and sets the shortened state flag to a value that can identify a variable shortened state. After the third jackpot is reached, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can identify a low probability state, sets the extension state flag to a value that can identify an open extension state, and sets the shortened state flag to a value that can identify a variable shortened state. After the third jackpot is reached, the main CPU 40a stores 100 times as the predetermined number of times in the main RAM 40c as extension remaining number information that can identify the remaining number of times of the special game controlled to the open extension state. When the remaining extension times information stored in the main RAM 40c is 1 or more, the main CPU 40a subtracts 1 from the remaining extension times information and updates the remaining extension times information each time the special game ends. Also, when the updated remaining extension times information reaches 0, the main CPU 40a sets the extension state flag to a value that can identify a non-open extension state, and sets the shortened state flag to a value that can identify a non-variable shortened state.

When the game state is set in which the probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a low probability state, the extension state flag is set to a value that can identify a non-open extension state, and the shortened state flag is set to a value that can identify a non-variable shortened state, the main CPU 40a stores information that can identify a normal low probability state (hereinafter referred to as normal low probability information) in the main RAM 40c. When the game state is set in which the probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a low probability state, the extension state flag is set to a value that can identify an open extension state, and the shortened state flag is set to a value that can identify a variable shortened state, the main CPU 40a stores information that can identify a specific low probability state (hereinafter referred to as specific low probability information) in the main RAM 40c. In addition, when the game state is set in which the probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a high probability state, the extension state flag is set to a value that can identify an open extension state, and the shortened state flag is set to a value that can identify a variable shortened state, the main CPU 40a stores information that can identify a specific high probability state (hereinafter referred to as specific high probability information) in the main RAM 40c. When a game state is reached in which the probability state flag is set to a value that identifies a high probability state, the extension state flag is set to a value that identifies a non-open extension state, and the shortened state flag is set to a value that identifies a variable shortened state, the main CPU 40a stores information that identifies a special state (hereinafter referred to as special state information) in the main RAM 40c.

Incidentally, when a jackpot game occurs, the main CPU 40a sets the probability state flag to a value that can specify control to a low probability state, the extension state flag to a value that can specify a non-open extension state, and the shortened state flag to a value that can specify a non-variable shortened state. Therefore, when a jackpot game occurs when in a special state, the special state ends and a jackpot game occurs. In this embodiment, when a jackpot game occurs when in a special state, that is, when a jackpot lottery is won when in a special state, the special state ends. And when a jackpot game occurs when in a specific low probability state, the specific low probability state ends and a jackpot game occurs. In this embodiment, when a jackpot game occurs when in a specific low probability state, that is, when a jackpot lottery is won when in a specific low probability state, the specific low probability state ends. Furthermore, if a jackpot game occurs during a specific high probability state, the specific high probability state ends and a jackpot game occurs. In this embodiment, if a jackpot game occurs during a specific high probability state, that is, if a jackpot lottery is won during a specific high probability state, the specific high probability state ends. As described above, in this embodiment, the main CPU 40a performs game state processing, thereby realizing a function as a game state control means that controls the game state.

Next, the normal symbol input process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described.
In the normal symbol input process, the main CPU 40a judges whether the game ball has passed (entered) the gate 33 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the gate sensor SE5. If the game ball has not passed through the gate 33, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol input process. On the other hand, if the game ball has passed through the gate 33, the main CPU 40a judges whether the normal reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If the normal reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol input process. If the normal reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 40a adds 1 to the normal reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c to update it. In this case, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated normal reserved number. In addition, the main CPU 40a stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a normal reserved number command) capable of identifying the updated normal reserved number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 40a acquires the normal winning lottery random number generated in the main board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main RAM 40c. In this case, the main CPU 40a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for a normal game and the storage order of the random number information. After that, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol input process.

Next, the normal symbol start process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described.
In the normal symbol start process, the main CPU 40a judges whether the execution conditions of the normal game are met. The main CPU 40a judges positively when the normal winning game is not being played and the normal game is not being played, while it judges negatively when the normal winning game is being played or the normal game is being played. If the execution conditions of the normal game are not met, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol start process. On the other hand, if the execution conditions of the normal game are met, the main CPU 40a judges whether the normal reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c is 1 or more. If the normal reserved number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 40a ends the normal symbol start process. If the normal reserved number is 1 or more, the main CPU 40a updates the normal reserved number stored in the main RAM 40c by subtracting 1. In this process, the main CPU 40a controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated normal reserved number is displayed. In addition, the main CPU 40a stores a normal reserved number command that can specify the updated normal reserved number in the output buffer.

Next, the main CPU 40a reads out the random number information for the normal game that was stored first from the main RAM 40c. After reading out the first random number information, the main CPU 40a erases the first random number information stored from the main RAM 40c. Next, the main CPU 40a judges whether or not a normal win is won based on the read out random number information for the normal game and the normal win judgment value stored in the main ROM 40b. This process corresponds to a normal win lottery (normal win judgment) to determine whether or not a normal win is won. For example, when the normal win high probability state and the normal win low probability state are controllable, the main CPU 40a may perform a normal win lottery so that the probability of winning a normal win is higher in the normal win high probability state than in the normal win low probability state. When a normal win is won, the main CPU 40a determines the normal win symbol to be displayed as a fixed stop in the normal game and the normal game fluctuation time, and then ends the normal symbol start process. If the normal winning lottery is not won, the main CPU 40a determines the normal losing symbol to be displayed as a fixed stop in the normal game and the normal game fluctuation time, and then ends the normal symbol start process. For example, when configured to be controllable to the normal shortened state and the non-normal shortened state, the main CPU 40a may determine a shorter time as the normal game fluctuation time in the normal shortened state (or may make it easier to determine a shorter time as the normal game fluctuation time) compared to the non-normal shortened state. The main CPU 40a may be configured to determine the normal game fluctuation time by determining a normal fluctuation pattern in which the normal game fluctuation time is set. This normal fluctuation pattern may be stored in the main ROM 40b.

Then, the main CPU 40a executes the normal game by performing a process separate from the normal symbol start process. Specifically, the main CPU 40a starts the normal game and controls the information display panel 22 so that the normal symbol determined in the normal symbol start process is displayed as a fixed stop when the variable time determined in the normal symbol start process has elapsed.

Next, the normal winning process performed by the main CPU 40a will be described.
After the normal game of the normal win is finished, the main CPU 40a performs normal win processing. In the normal win processing, the main CPU 40a starts control to generate a normal win game depending on whether the state is the open extension state or the non-open extension state. Therefore, the main CPU 40a generates a normal win by performing normal win processing. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a normal win game is generated after a normal win is won. Note that generating a normal win game corresponds to granting a normal win game. In the normal win processing, when the main CPU 40a is in the open extension state, the main CPU 40a controls the first actuator A1 so that the second start hole 27 is opened in the opening mode in the open extension state. Also, when the main CPU 40a is in the non-open extension state, the main CPU 40a controls the first actuator A1 so that the second start hole 27 is opened in the opening mode in the non-open extension state.

In this embodiment, the second starting hole 27 is opened more times in one normal winning game in the open mode in the extended open state, and the total time that the second starting hole 27 is open is longer, compared to the open mode in the non-open extended state. Therefore, when the second starting hole 27 is opened in the open mode in the extended open state, it is easier to get a game ball into the second starting hole 27, compared to when the second starting hole 27 is opened in the open mode in the non-open extended state. In other words, when the game is in the extended open state, there is a higher advantage in getting a game ball into the second starting hole 27, compared to when the game is in the non-open extended state.

Next, various processes performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described.
First, the process of inputting a read-ahead command performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described.
When a look-ahead command is input, the secondary CPU 41a stores the input look-ahead command in the secondary RAM 41c. Specifically, the secondary CPU 41a identifies which of the first and second special games the input look-ahead command corresponds to, and stores the look-ahead command corresponding to the first special game and the look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game in the secondary RAM 41c. At this time, the secondary CPU 41a stores the look-ahead command in the secondary RAM 41c so that the storage order of the look-ahead command can be specified according to the first special reserved number or the second special reserved number that can be specified from the look-ahead command. In addition, when the first special game is over, the secondary CPU 41a erases the look-ahead command that is stored first among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the first special game stored in the secondary RAM 41c. Similarly, when the second special game is over, the secondary CPU 41a erases the look-ahead command that is stored first among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the secondary RAM 41c.

Next, the presentation game process performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described.
The secondary CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamp 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that a performance game is performed. Specifically, when the secondary CPU 41a is in a normal low probability state, it controls to execute the performance game when it inputs the first variation pattern command. Note that, when the secondary CPU 41a is in a normal low probability state, it does not control to execute the performance game even if it inputs the second variation pattern command. On the other hand, when the secondary CPU 41a is in any of a specific low probability state, a specific high probability state, and a special state, it controls to execute the performance game when it inputs the second variation pattern command. Note that, when the secondary CPU 41a is in any of a specific low probability state, a specific high probability state, and a special state, it does not control to execute the performance game even if it inputs the first variation pattern command. In this way, when the secondary CPU 41a is in a normal low probability state, it executes a performance game based on the first special game. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, when it is controlled to the normal low probability state and the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the second special game being executed is not executed, while the presentation game corresponding to the first special game being executed is executed. Also, the sub-CPU 41a executes a presentation game based on the second special game when it is in any of the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, when it is controlled to any of the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state and the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the first special game being executed is not executed, while the presentation game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed.

When controlling the execution of the presentation game, the sub-CPU 41a determines the pattern combination of the presentation patterns to be finally displayed as a fixed stop in the presentation game based on the pattern command and the variation pattern command. When the special pattern identifiable from the pattern command is a big win pattern, the sub-CPU 41a determines the presentation pattern combination for a big win. When the special pattern identifiable from the pattern command is a small win pattern, the sub-CPU 41a determines the presentation pattern combination for a small win. When the special pattern identifiable from the pattern command is a losing pattern, the sub-CPU 41a determines the losing presentation pattern combination. When a reach presentation is performed in the presentation game because the reach condition is established, the sub-CPU 41a may determine a losing presentation pattern combination including a reach. In this embodiment, the reach condition is established when a loss reach-with-miss variation pattern is specified among the loss variation patterns.

When the sub-CPU 41a inputs the variation pattern command, it controls the performance display device 25 to display the variation pattern. In other words, the sub-CPU 41a starts the performance game. The variation pattern command can be said to be control information that instructs the start of a performance game based on a variation pattern. The sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that a performance such as a big win notice performance is executed based on a variation pattern that can be specified from the variation pattern command. In addition, the sub-CPU 41a temporarily stops and displays the pattern combination based on the determined performance pattern at a specified timing. After that, the sub-CPU 41a displays the performance pattern combination as a fixed stop in response to the input of the game end command. Note that the sub-CPU 41a may time a variation time that can be specified from the variation pattern regardless of the game end command, and display the performance pattern combination as a fixed stop in response to the passage of the variation time.

Next, the specific game process performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described.
The sub-CPU 41a controls the effect display device 25 so that the specific game is played. Specifically, in any of the game states of the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state, the sub-CPU 41a controls to execute the first specific game based on the first special game when the first variation pattern command is input. Also, in any of the game states of the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state, the sub-CPU 41a controls to execute the second specific game based on the second special game when the second variation pattern command is input. In the gaming machine 10, when the first special game and the second special game are simultaneously executed, the first specific game and the second specific game are simultaneously executed. In this embodiment, when the first special game and the second special game are simultaneously executed, regardless of whether the game is controlled in any of the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state, the first specific game corresponding to the first special game being executed is executed, and the second specific game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed.

When controlling the execution of a specific game, the sub-CPU 41a determines the specific symbol to be finally displayed as a fixed stop in the specific game based on the symbol command and the variable pattern command. If the special symbol identifiable from the symbol command is a jackpot symbol, the sub-CPU 41a determines the specific symbol for the jackpot. If the special symbol identifiable from the symbol command is a small jackpot symbol, the sub-CPU 41a determines the specific symbol for the small jackpot. If the special symbol identifiable from the symbol command is a losing symbol, the sub-CPU 41a determines the specific symbol for the losing symbol. Note that the type of specific symbol to be finally displayed as a fixed stop in the specific game may be different depending on the type of jackpot symbol.

When the sub-CPU 41a inputs a first variation pattern command, it controls the performance display device 25 to display the specific symbol in the first specific area Z1 in a variable manner and start the first specific game. When the sub-CPU 41a inputs a first game end command, it controls the performance display device 25 to display the specific symbol in the first specific area Z1 in a fixed, stopped state and end the first specific game. Similarly, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs a second variation pattern command, it controls the performance display device 25 to display the specific symbol in the second specific area Z2 in a variable manner and start the second specific game. When the sub-CPU 41a inputs a second game end command, it controls the performance display device 25 to display the specific symbol in the second specific area Z2 in a fixed, stopped state and end the second specific game.

Next, the winning effect process performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described.
During a jackpot game, the sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that a jackpot performance is performed. When an opening command is input, the sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that an opening performance is performed. When a round command is input, the sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that a round performance is performed. When an ending command is input, the sub-CPU 41a controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 so that an ending performance is performed.

The secondary CPU 41a also controls at least one of the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the effect display device 25 during small win play so that a small win effect is performed. In this embodiment, the small win effect is such that the effect pattern at the end of the small win special game is continuously displayed on the effect display device 25. In this embodiment, the small win effect is such that the effect pattern at the end of the small win special game is continuously displayed on the effect display device 25.

Next, the state processing performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described.
The sub-RAM 41c stores information that can identify the game state. The information that can identify the game state stored in the sub-RAM 41c includes information that can identify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state (hereinafter referred to as a sub-probability state flag). The information that can identify the game state stored in the sub-RAM 41c includes information that can identify whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state (hereinafter referred to as a sub-extension state flag). The information that can identify the game state stored in the sub-RAM 41c includes information that can identify whether the game state is a variable shortening state or a non-variable shortening state (hereinafter referred to as a sub-shortening state flag). In this embodiment, information that can identify whether the game state is a low probability state or a high probability state, information that can identify whether the game state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state, and information that can identify whether the game state is a variable shortening state or a non-variable shortening state are separated, but some or all of the information may be common information. For example, it may be possible to configure the device to be able to identify from a single piece of information whether the state is a low probability state or a high probability state, whether the state is an open extension state or a non-open extension state, and whether the state is a variable shortening state or a non-variable shortening state.

When control information capable of identifying a low probability state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary probability state flag to a value capable of identifying a low probability state. When control information capable of identifying a high probability state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary probability state flag to a value capable of identifying a high probability state. When control information capable of identifying a non-open extension state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary extension state flag to a value capable of identifying a non-open extension state. When control information capable of identifying an open extension state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary extension state flag to a value capable of identifying an open extension state. When control information capable of identifying a non-variable shortening state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary shortening state flag to a value capable of identifying a non-variable shortening state. When control information capable of identifying a variable shortening state is input, the secondary CPU 41a sets the secondary shortening state flag to a value capable of identifying a variable shortening state.

When the game state is reached in which the secondary probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a low probability state, the secondary extension state flag is set to a value that can identify a non-open extension state, and the secondary shortened state flag is set to a value that can identify a non-variable shortened state, the secondary CPU 41a stores information that can identify a normal low probability state (hereinafter referred to as secondary normal low probability information) in the secondary RAM 41c. When the game state is reached in which the secondary probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a low probability state, the secondary extension state flag is set to a value that can identify an open extension state, and the secondary shortened state flag is set to a value that can identify a variable shortened state, the secondary CPU 41a stores information that can identify a specific low probability state (hereinafter referred to as secondary specific low probability information) in the secondary RAM 41c. In addition, when a game state is reached in which the secondary probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a high probability state, the secondary extended state flag is set to a value that can identify an open extended state, and the secondary shortened state flag is set to a value that can identify a variable shortened state, the main CPU 40a stores information that can identify a specific high probability state (hereinafter referred to as secondary specific high probability information) in the secondary RAM 41c. When a game state is reached in which the secondary probability state flag is set to a value that can identify a high probability state, the secondary extended state flag is set to a value that can identify a non-open extended state, and the secondary shortened state flag is set to a value that can identify a variable shortened state, the secondary CPU 41a stores information that can identify a special state (hereinafter referred to as secondary special information) in the secondary RAM 41c.

When the secondary CPU 41a inputs an opening command, it sets the hit status flag stored in the secondary RAM 41c to a value that can identify that a big hit is being played. When the secondary CPU 41a inputs an ending command and then a variation pattern designation command, it sets the hit status flag stored in the secondary RAM 41c to a value that can identify that a big hit is not being played. When the secondary CPU 41a inputs a small hit occurrence command, it sets the hit status flag stored in the secondary RAM 41c to a value that can identify that a small hit is being played. When the secondary CPU 41a inputs a variation pattern designation command after inputting a small hit occurrence command, it sets a value that can identify that a big hit is not being played. By referring to the hit status flag stored in the secondary RAM 41c, the secondary CPU 41a can identify whether a big hit is being played, a small hit is being played, or not a hit is being played (not a big hit or not a small hit).

Here, with reference to FIG. 8, a change in the number of balls possessed with respect to the playing time in each playing state in the gaming machine 10 will be described.
In the gaming machine 10, if the game ball enters the second start hole 27, even if it does not become a big win, there is a high probability of a small win. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second start hole in a non-probability variable state is the same as the probability of a small win triggered by a ball entering the second start hole in a probability variable state. Therefore, the probability of a small win in the second special game is the same in any of the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, the specific high probability state, and the special state. Then, by hitting to the right, the game ball can be made to enter the gate 33 and the second start hole 27, so that a small win lottery is generated and a chance to win a prize ball is generated. However, since the fluctuation time of the second special game in the non-fluctuation shortening state is significantly longer than the fluctuation time of the second special game in the fluctuation shortening state, the time until the small win game actually occurs and the chance to win a prize ball arrives is also significantly longer. In this embodiment, after the game ball is inserted into the second starting hole 27 and the execution of the second special game starts, the second large winning hole 31 is finally opened about 10 minutes later.

And, when hitting to the right in the non-variable shortening state, the number of game balls consumed per unit of time (the number of game balls fired) exceeds the number of game balls that can be acquired per unit of time. Furthermore, when hitting to the right, the game balls do not enter the first starting hole 26, so the number of special games executed per unit of time is significantly reduced. For this reason, when in the non-variable shortening state, it is preferable to hit to the left. On the other hand, when in the variable shortening state, the variable time of the second special game is shorter than when in the non-variable shortening state. As a result, when in the variable shortening state, the number of small wins per unit of time is more likely to be greater than when in the non-variable shortening state, and the frequency of small wins per unit of time is likely to be higher. That is, in this embodiment, when in the special state, the frequency of small wins per unit of time is higher than when in the normal low probability state. In addition, in this embodiment, when in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state, the frequency of small wins per unit time is higher than when in the normal low probability state. Therefore, when in the variable shortening state, it is preferable to hit to the right.

Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, the second starting port 27 is provided upstream of the second large winning port 31 in the flow passage 39. In this embodiment, when the open extension state is in place, many of the game balls that enter through the ball entry port 39a enter the second starting port 27, and even if a small win game occurs, the game balls are unlikely to enter the second large winning port 31. In particular, even if the second starting port 27 is closed, the flow speed of the game balls flowing down the flow passage 39 is reduced by the first protrusion 38a, so that even if the game ball entered the ball entry port 39a when the second starting port 27 is closed, it is more likely to enter the second starting port 27. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when the non-open extension state is in place, more of the game balls that enter through the ball entry port 39a tend to enter the second large winning port 31 without entering the second starting port 27, compared to when the open extension state is in place. In particular, even if the second large prize opening 31 is closed, the second protrusion 38b reduces the flow speed of the game ball flowing down the flow passage 39, increasing the possibility that a game ball that did not enter the second start opening 27 will enter the second large prize opening 31.

And, as shown in FIG. 8, according to the gaming machine 10, when it is controlled to the special state, the number of times that small wins occur per unit time increases, so that the number of game balls that can be acquired per unit time is greater than the number of game balls consumed per unit time. In this way, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the special state, if you hit the right side, even if a big win game does not occur, it is possible to increase the game balls (held balls) you have by the occurrence of a small win game. In this way, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to at least the non-open extension state and the variable shortening state, it can be said that the advantage when a small win game occurs is higher than when it is controlled to at least the non-open extension state and the non-variable shortening state. Also, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to at least the non-open extension state and the variable shortening state, it can be said that the advantage when a small win game occurs is higher than when it is controlled to at least the open extension state and the variable shortening state. For this reason, it can be said that the special state is more advantageous than the normal low probability state, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state. In this embodiment, when controlled at least in the non-open extended state and the variable shortened state, the number of game balls that can be acquired is greater than the number of game balls that are shot per unit time, so that the advantage is high when a small win occurs. In other words, when a small win is awarded in a special state, the expectation of winning game balls is higher than when a small win is awarded in a normal low probability state, a specific low probability state, or a specific high probability state.

When the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal low probability state, it is preferable to hit from the left, so it is expected that the player will hit from the left. However, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal low probability state, the number of balls held cannot be increased even if the player hits from the left, and the number of balls held will decrease the longer the game continues.

In addition, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, it is preferable to hit the ball to the right, so it is assumed that the ball will be hit to the right. However, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the number of times a small hit is won per unit time is greater than in the normal low probability state, but the number of balls held cannot be increased even if the ball is hit to the right, and the number of balls held decreases as the game continues. In other words, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the number of times a small hit is awarded per unit time is greater than in the normal low probability state, but the number of balls held does not increase. However, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the game ball can be easily inserted into the second starting hole 27 by hitting the ball to the right, so the decrease in the number of balls held when the game continues is suppressed compared to when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal low probability state. For this reason, the specific low probability state can be said to be more advantageous than the normal low probability state. Furthermore, the specific high probability state is considered to be more advantageous than the normal low probability state.

On the other hand, when the machine is controlled to a special state, it is preferable to hit from the right, so it is assumed that the player will hit from the right. When the machine is controlled to a special state, hitting from the right increases the chances of a small win occurring per unit of time and causing the game ball to enter the second large winning port 31, so the number of balls held can be increased, and the more the game continues, the more balls held. In this way, in this embodiment, in the special state, the number of times a small win is won per unit of time increases compared to the normal low probability state, and the number of balls held can be increased. In other words, when the machine is in a special state, the number of times a small win is awarded per unit of time increases compared to the normal low probability state, making it possible to increase the number of balls held. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be controllable to a special state in which the number of times a small win is won per unit of time increases, thereby increasing the number of balls held.

In the gaming machine 10, when the special state is controlled, the player can expect a jackpot, and can also expect the period of control in the special state to be longer. In the gaming machine 10, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 900 from when the special state is controlled to when the special state ends. Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, when the first jackpot game occurs, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 750 during the jackpot game. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, when the second jackpot game occurs and when the third jackpot game occurs, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 300 during the jackpot game. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, the expected value of the increase in the number of balls held is higher in one first jackpot game than in one second jackpot game or one third jackpot game.

In the gaming machine 10, the expected value of the increase in the number of balls held is higher from the start of the special state to the end of the special state than in a single jackpot game. In the gaming machine 10, the special state is controlled after the end of the first jackpot game. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, the specific high probability state is controlled after the end of the second jackpot game, and the specific low probability state is controlled after the end of the third jackpot game. As described above, when a small jackpot game is awarded in a special state, the expected value of increasing the number of balls held is higher than when a small jackpot game is awarded in a specific low probability state or a specific high probability state. In other words, the expected value of the increase in the number of balls held in the game after the end of the first jackpot game is higher than the expected value of the increase in the number of balls held after the end of the second jackpot game or the end of the third jackpot game.

In addition, in the gaming machine 10, when one small win game occurs in a special state, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 30 during the small win game. In the gaming machine 10, when a first big win game occurs, the number of balls held can be increased by an average of 750 during the big win game, so the expected value for the increase in the number of balls held is higher in one first big win game than in one small win game. Therefore, it can be said that the degree of advantage is higher when the first big win game is awarded than when a small win game is awarded.

Next, we will explain that when a winning lottery (a big win lottery and a small win lottery) held when a ball enters the second starting hole 27 during the execution of the first special game is won and a winning game (a big win game and a small win game) is generated, the generation of the winning game takes priority over the first special game being executed.

As shown in FIG. 9, during the execution of the first special game, the second special game that won a big win or a small win in the winning lottery is ended at timing t11. In this case, the first special symbol changing game that would normally be played until the changing time T1 based on the changing pattern is forcibly ended as a loss at the changing time T2 corresponding to the time when the timing t11 arrives, and the first special game that was being executed is stopped. That is, in the gaming machine 10, when the second special game that is a big win or a small win ends during the execution of the first special game, the first control is interrupted, and the first special game that is being executed is forcibly ended as a loss. Then, when the winning game that occurred from timing t11 ends at timing t12, if the first special reserved number is "1 or more", the first special game is executed. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, after the winning game ends, if the first special reserved number is "1 or more", the interrupted first control is started, and the first special game starts. Similarly, when the winning game ends at timing t12, if the second special reserved number is "1 or more", the second special game will be executed. Note that the first special game that was forcibly ended at timing t11 and the first special game that is started to be executed after the winning game ends will be different first special games.

Here, the special effects executed on the gaming machine 10 will be described.
The special effects are configured to be executable in the effect display device 25. The special effects can be executed during a big win game. On the other hand, the special effects cannot be executed during a small win game. In this embodiment, the special effects are configured to be executable during an ending period during a big win game. In the gaming machine 10, the special effects are executed for the special games whose execution is suspended. That is, in this embodiment, the special effects are configured to be executable for the special games whose execution is suspended during a big win game. Specifically, in this embodiment, the special effects are configured to be executable for the second special game whose execution is suspended among the first special game whose execution is suspended and the second special game whose execution is suspended. That is, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute the special effects for the second special game whose execution is suspended during a big win game. Then, in the gaming machine 10, the special effects are executed depending on whether the second special game that becomes the first big win is present among the second special games whose execution is suspended during a big win game. Specifically, in the gaming machine 10, during a jackpot game, the special effect is executed when there is a second special game resulting in a first jackpot among the second special games that are the targets of the special effect. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, during a jackpot game, the special effect is not executed when there is no second special game resulting in a first jackpot among the second special games that are the targets of the special effect.

In the gaming machine 10, even if there is a second special game that will result in a small win among the second special games whose execution is suspended during a jackpot game, if there is no second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is not executed. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, even if there is a second special game that will result in a small win among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is not executed when there is no second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if there is a second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is executed even when there is no second special game that will result in a small win among the second special games whose execution is suspended. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, even if there is a second special game that will be the second or third jackpot among the second special games that are on hold during a jackpot game, if there is no second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games that are on hold, the special effect is not executed. That is, in the gaming machine 10, even if there is a second special game that will be the second or third jackpot among the second special games that are on hold, the special effect is not executed when there is no second special game that will be the first jackpot. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if there is a second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games that are on hold, the special effect is executed even if there is no second special game that will be the second or third jackpot. The special effect can be said to be an effect that notifies the player that there is a second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games that are on hold.

Figure 10 shows an example of the display contents of the effect display device 25 when a special effect is executed during the first jackpot game. As shown in Figure 10, during the jackpot game, after the final round of play is completed, an ending effect and a special effect are executed. In the effect display device 25, a special image SD1 is displayed in conjunction with the execution of the special effect. In this embodiment, the special image SD1 is composed of an image imitating a "Samurai" character and an image of the line "It's V!!" In this embodiment, the special image SD1 is displayed on the effect display device 25 during at least a portion of the ending period, and the special effect is executed.

The processing related to the special effects performed by the secondary CPU 41a will be described.
When the sub-CPU 41a inputs an ending command, it determines whether or not to execute a special effect based on the look-ahead command stored in the sub-RAM 41c. Specifically, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs an ending command, if the look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game is not stored in the sub-RAM 41c, it does not determine to execute a special effect. That is, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs an ending command, if the second special reserved number is 0, it does not determine to execute a special effect. Not determining to execute a special effect is equivalent to determining not to execute a special effect. During the first and second jackpot games, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs an ending command, if a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game is stored in the sub-RAM 41c, it determines whether the look-ahead command is classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5. In addition, when an ending command is input during a third jackpot game, if a look-ahead command corresponding to a second special game is stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a judges whether the look-ahead command is classified as a look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands. In other words, when an ending command is input during a jackpot game, the sub-CPU 41a judges whether a second special game that will become a first jackpot is present among the second special games whose execution is suspended.

During the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game, if there is a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a decides to execute a special effect. For example, during the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game, if there is a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game, the sub-CPU 41a may be configured to determine by lottery that a special effect will be executed. Also, during the third jackpot game, if there is a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a decides to execute a special effect. For example, during the third jackpot game, if there is a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game, the sub-CPU 41a may be configured to determine by lottery that a special effect will be executed.

When it is decided to execute a special effect, the sub-CPU 41a controls so that the special effect is executed. Thus, in this embodiment, if there is a second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is pending, the special effect is executed. When the special effect is executed, the sub-CPU 41a controls so that the special effect ends when the ending time has elapsed.

On the other hand, during the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game, if there is no look-ahead command classified as any of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, or SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a does not decide to execute a special effect. Also, during the third jackpot game, if there is no look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a does not decide to execute a special effect. Thus, in this embodiment, if there is no second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is pending, the special effect is not executed.

Next, the specific effects executed on the gaming machine 10 will be described.
The specific performance is configured to be executable in the performance display device 25. The specific performance can be executed during a small win game. On the other hand, the specific performance cannot be executed during any of the first, second, and third big win games. In addition, the specific performance can be executed during a small win game when a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state. On the other hand, the specific performance cannot be executed during the small win game even if a small win game is awarded in the normal low probability state. In addition, the specific performance cannot be executed during the small win game even if a small win game is awarded in the special state. And, the specific performance is executed during at least a part of the period from the start to the end of the small win game. In the gaming machine 10, the specific performance is executed for the special game whose execution is pending. That is, in this embodiment, during a small win game, a specific effect is configured to be executable for a special game whose execution is suspended. Specifically, in this embodiment, a specific effect is configured to be executable for the second special game whose execution is suspended among the first special game whose execution is suspended and the second special game whose execution is suspended. In this way, when a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute a specific effect for the second special game whose execution is suspended during the small win game. On the other hand, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be unable to execute a specific effect when a small win game is awarded in the normal low probability state. Also, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be unable to execute a specific effect when a small win game is awarded in a special state.

In the gaming machine 10, during a small win game, a specific effect is executed depending on whether or not there is a second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games that are on hold. Specifically, in the gaming machine 10, during a small win game, when there is a second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games that are on hold, the specific effect is more likely to be executed than when there is no second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games that are on hold. Specifically, in this embodiment, the probability of winning the specific effect lottery that determines whether or not to execute a specific effect is set higher when there is a second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games that are on hold, compared to when there is no second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games that are on hold. Incidentally, in this embodiment, a specific effect is determined to be executed by winning the specific effect lottery, while a specific effect is not determined to be executed by not winning the specific effect lottery. Not determining to execute a specific effect corresponds to determining not to execute a specific effect.

In the gaming machine 10, when a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the winning probability of the specific performance lottery does not change depending on whether or not there is a second special game that will result in a small win among the second special games whose execution is suspended. In this way, the specific performance can be executed during a small win game, regardless of whether there is a second special game that will result in a small win among the second special games whose execution is suspended. Also, in the gaming machine 10, when a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, the winning probability of the specific performance lottery does not change depending on whether or not there is a second special game that will result in a second or third jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. In this way, the specific performance can be executed during a small win game, regardless of whether there is a second special game that will result in a second or third jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended.

As described above, in the gaming machine 10, during a small win game, a special effect may be executed in either case where there is a second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is on hold, or where there is no second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is on hold. In other words, during a small win game, a special effect can be executed in either case where there is a second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games that are the subject of the special effect, or where there is no second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games that are the subject of the special effect. The special effect can be said to be an effect that suggests that there is a second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is on hold.

In this embodiment, there are multiple types of special effects. In this embodiment, the expectation that there will be a second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is on hold varies depending on the type of special effect. In the following explanation, the "expectation that there will be a second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is on hold" may be simply referred to as the "expectation of a first jackpot due to a special effect." The expectation of a first jackpot due to a special effect can be calculated as the ratio between the probability of being executed when there is no second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is on hold, and the probability of being executed when there is a second special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is on hold.

There are three special effects: a first special effect, a second special effect, and a third special effect. The third special effect has a higher expectation of a first big win due to the special effect than the first and second special effects. The second special effect has a higher expectation of a first big win due to the special effect than the first special effect. The special effects are designed so that the first stage is executed first, and then the second stage is executed. In this embodiment, the first stage of the first to third special effects is common, and the effects are of the same effect type. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the second stage of the first to third special effects is not common, and the effects are of different effect types.

As shown in FIG. 11(a), when a specific performance is executed, the performance display device 25 displays a specific image LD1, and the first stage of the performance is executed. The specific image LD1 in this embodiment is composed of an image imitating a "scroll" and including text information such as "Lord! Up ahead...". After that, the specific image LD1 is erased, and as shown in FIG. 11(b), when a specific performance is executed, the performance display device 25 displays a specific image LD2 different from the specific image LD1, and the second stage of the performance is executed. The specific image LD2 shown in FIG. 11(b) is an image imitating a "scroll" and including text information such as "It's super hot!?", but the text information included in the specific image LD2 differs depending on the type of the specific performance. That is, there are multiple types of specific performances in this embodiment, and the same performance (first stage performance) regardless of the type of specific performance and a performance (second stage performance) that differs depending on the type of specific performance are executed.

The following describes the processing related to the specific presentation performed by the secondary CPU 41a when in a specific low-probability state and when in a specific high-probability state.
When the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small win occurrence command, it determines whether or not to execute a specific effect based on a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c. Specifically, if there is no look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a does not decide to execute a specific effect. That is, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small win occurrence command, if the second special reserved number is 0, it does not decide to execute a specific effect. Not deciding to execute a specific effect is equivalent to deciding not to execute a specific effect.

In a specific high probability state, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small hit occurrence command, if a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game is stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a determines whether the look-ahead command is classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, or SC5. In addition, in a specific low probability state, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small hit occurrence command, if a look-ahead command corresponding to the second special game is stored in the sub-RAM 41c, the sub-CPU 41a determines whether the look-ahead command is classified as the look-ahead command SC1. In other words, when the sub-CPU 41a inputs a small hit occurrence command, the sub-CPU 41a determines whether there is a special game that will result in a first big hit among the second special games whose execution is pending. When the sub-CPU 41a judges that there is a look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game in the specific high probability state, the sub-CPU 41a performs a specific effect lottery with a winning probability when there is a second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. Similarly, when the sub-CPU 41a judges that there is a look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game in the specific low probability state, the sub-CPU 41a performs a specific effect lottery with a winning probability when there is a second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. On the other hand, when the sub-CPU 41a judges that there is no look-ahead command classified as one of the look-ahead commands SC1, SC4, and SC5 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game in the specific high probability state, the sub-CPU 41a performs a specific effect lottery with a winning probability when there is no second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. Similarly, when the sub-CPU 41a determines that there is no look-ahead command classified as the look-ahead command SC1 among the look-ahead commands corresponding to the second special game in the specific low probability state, it performs a specific effect lottery with the winning probability when there is no second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is pending. The specific effect lottery may be configured, for example, so that the sub-CPU 41a obtains a random number generated within the sub-board 41 as the value of the random number to be used in the specific effect lottery, and performs the lottery using the value of the random number and a judgment value stored in the sub-ROM 41b.

When the specific effect lottery is won, the sub-CPU 41a determines the type of specific effect from among the first to third specific effects. If the sub-CPU 41a determines that there is a second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the sub-CPU 41a determines the type of specific effect based on the selection rate when there is a second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. On the other hand, if the sub-CPU 41a determines that there is no second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended, the sub-CPU 41a determines the type of specific effect based on the selection rate when there is no second special game that will be the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution is suspended. For example, the sub-CPU 41a may obtain a random number generated within the sub-substrate 41 as the value of the random number used in the specific effect lottery, and the type of specific effect may be determined based on the random number. Then, after determining the type of specific effect, the sub-CPU 41a controls so that the determined type of specific effect is executed. At this time, the secondary CPU 41a executes the first stage of the performance, and then executes the second stage of the performance.

As described above, in this embodiment, the specific effect is an effect that suggests whether there is a special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution has been put on hold. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the special effect is an effect that notifies the player that there is a special game that will result in the first jackpot among the second special games whose execution has been put on hold. And, in this embodiment, the display content of the effect display device 25 when the specific effect is executed is different from the display content of the effect display device 25 when the special effect is executed.

Here, with reference to FIG. 12, we will explain the case where a special effect is executed when the second special game ends and a small win game is awarded in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, and the case where a special effect is executed when the second special game ends and a first big win game is awarded.

As shown in FIG. 12, during the execution of the first special game, the second special game that will be a small win ends at timing t21 and a small win game is awarded. At timing t21, the first control is interrupted and the first special game being executed is stopped based on the fact that the second special game ends and a small win game is awarded. At this time, the second special game that will be the first big win is included in the second special game whose execution is suspended, and based on that, it is decided to execute a specific effect. Then, during the small win game, the specific effect starts at timing t22 and ends at timing t23. Incidentally, if the small win game ends at a timing before timing t23, the specific effect ends at the timing when the small win game before timing t23 ends. The specific effect in this embodiment is an effect that can be executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended when a small win game is awarded, and is executed depending on whether there is a special game that will be the first big win among the second special games that are the targets of the specific effect. Therefore, the specific effect executed at timing t22 is executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended at the time of timing t21. In this embodiment, when the first special game is executed in either the specific low probability state or the specific high probability state, when the second special game which is a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, a specific effect is executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended. In this embodiment, when the first special game is executed, when the second special game which is a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, a specific effect is executed depending on whether the second special game which is a first big win is included in the second special game whose execution is suspended. Note that, as described above, in the gaming machine 10, when a small win game is awarded in either the normal low probability state or the special state, a specific effect is not executed. That is, in this embodiment, when the first special game is being played in either the normal low probability state or the special state, and the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and the specific presentation is configured to be unable to be executed while the first control is interrupted.

The specific effects can only be executed during a small win game, and cannot be executed during a big win game. In other words, in this embodiment, when the first big win game is awarded, the specific effects are not executed, whereas when the small win game is awarded, the specific effects are executed depending on whether there is a special game that will result in the first big win among the special games whose execution is pending. And in this embodiment, when the first special game is being executed and the second special game that will result in the first big win ends and the first big win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the specific effects cannot be executed.

Also, after the small win game ends at timing t24, if the first special reserved number is 1 or more, the first control is started and the first special game is started. Similarly, after the small win game ends at timing t24, if the second special reserved number is 1 or more, the second control is started and the second special game is started. Then, at timing t25, the execution of the second special game that is the first big win, whose execution was reserved at timing t21, is started. Incidentally, even if the first special game that is a miss ends at timing t26 during the execution of the second special game that started at timing t25, the second control is not interrupted and the second special game continues to be executed. After that, when the second special game that is the first big win that started at timing t25 ends at timing t27, if the first special game is being executed, the first control is interrupted and the first special game being executed is stopped based on the fact that the second special game ends and the first big win game is awarded. At this time, it is assumed that the second special game whose execution is suspended is the second special game whose execution will result in the first jackpot, and that it is decided to execute a special effect based on the second special game. During the first jackpot game, the special effect starts at timing t28 and ends at timing t29. The special effect is an effect that can be executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended when the ending period starts, and is executed depending on whether the special game whose execution will result in the first jackpot is included in the second special games that are the targets of the special effect. Therefore, the specific effect executed at timing t28 is executed for the second special game whose execution is suspended at the time of timing t28. In other words, even if the second special game whose execution was suspended before timing t28 during the first jackpot game is still the target of the special effect. Thus, in this embodiment, when the first special game is being executed and the second special game resulting in the first jackpot ends and the first jackpot game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and while the first control is interrupted, a special effect can be executed for the second special game whose execution is on hold.

Therefore, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) When the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, when the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the first control related to the execution of the first special game is interrupted and a special effect is executed. In this way, by executing a special effect while the first control is interrupted, attention can be drawn to the second special game whose execution is suspended, and interest can be increased. However, when the second special game ends and a small win game is awarded, there is a risk that interest in the special game will decrease due to the interruption of the first control related to the execution of the first special game, but the execution of the special effect can suppress the decrease in interest.

(2) The special state is more advantageous than the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state. Therefore, when the special state is in place, the player's expectations for the game are more likely to be heightened than when the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state are in place. In such a special state, when the second special game results in a small win and the first control is suspended, the specific performance is not executed. On the other hand, the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state are less advantageous than the special state, so that the player's expectations for the game are less likely to be heightened. In the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state, which are less advantageous than the special state, when the second special game results in a small win and the first control is suspended, the specific performance is executed, so that the player's interest can be effectively increased. This allows the player to enjoy the game and increase the player's interest in all of the special states, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state.

(3) In the specific low probability state and specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the first special game being executed is not executed, while the presentation game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed. Therefore, in the specific low probability state and specific high probability state, it is easy to understand that the second special game, which results in a small win, has ended and a small win game has been awarded. This makes it easier to draw attention to the execution of the specific effect, and can increase interest. Furthermore, when in the specific low probability state or specific high probability state, the presentation game corresponding to the second special game, which is the target of the specific effect, is executed, so attention to the presentation game can be increased, and interest can be increased.

(4) In the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the first specific game corresponding to the first special game being executed is executed, and the second specific game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed. Also, in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state, when the first special game and the second special game are being executed simultaneously, the presentation game corresponding to the first special game being executed is not executed, while the presentation game corresponding to the second special game being executed is executed. Therefore, while the specific game allows the player to understand that the first special game and the second special game are being executed, it is easy to understand that the presentation game will end the second special game that will result in a small win and a small win game will be awarded. Therefore, it is easy to allow the player to understand about the special game being executed, and it is easy to draw attention to the fact that a small win game will be awarded and a specific presentation will be executed, thereby improving interest.

(5) When the first jackpot game is awarded, the special effect is not executed. For example, when a small jackpot game is awarded, the degree of advantage is lower than when the first jackpot game is awarded, and it is therefore difficult to excite the player compared to when the first jackpot game is awarded. However, when a small jackpot game is awarded, it is possible to execute a special effect that is not executed when the first jackpot game is awarded. Therefore, when a small jackpot game is awarded, although the degree of advantage is lower than when the first jackpot game is awarded, a special benefit that cannot be obtained when the first jackpot game is awarded, namely "the execution of a special effect," can be obtained, which can increase interest.

(6) Although it is possible to execute the first special game and the second special game simultaneously, when the second special game becomes a jackpot, the first control is interrupted and a special effect is executed. By executing a special effect while the first control is interrupted, attention can be drawn to the second special game whose execution is on hold, and interest can be increased. Furthermore, the display content of the effect display device 25 when a specific effect is executed differs from the display content of the effect display device 25 when a special effect is executed. Therefore, a wide variety of effects can be executed for the display content of the effect targeted at the second special game whose execution is on hold, and interest can be increased.

(7) The special effects are executed depending on whether there is a second special game that will result in a first big win, which has a higher advantage than a small win, so that the player can pay more attention to the second special game that is on hold, thereby increasing interest.

(8) When a small win game is awarded, a specific effect is executed depending on whether there is a special game that will result in a first jackpot among the special games whose execution is suspended. Therefore, even if a small win game with a lower degree of advantage is awarded compared to when a first jackpot game is awarded, the specific effect is executed, so that it is possible to heighten the expectation that a first jackpot game with a higher degree of advantage will be awarded among the special games whose execution is suspended, thereby increasing interest. And, since a specific effect is executed depending on whether a first jackpot game with a higher degree of advantage will be awarded when a small win game is awarded, it is possible to heighten the expectation that in addition to the award of a small win game, a first jackpot game with an even higher degree of advantage will also be awarded, thereby increasing interest.

(9) The specific effect is executed depending on whether there is a special game that will result in a first big win among the reserved symbol-changing games. On the other hand, the specific effect is executed regardless of whether there is a special game that will result in a small win among the reserved special games. In this way, when a small win game with a low advantage is awarded, the specific effect is not executed depending on whether a small win game with a similarly low advantage is awarded, but the specific effect is executed depending on whether a first big win game with a high advantage is awarded. For example, even if a small win game with a low advantage is awarded when a small win game with a low advantage is awarded, the effect is executed depending on whether the current situation will be the same as the current situation, so it is difficult to increase interest in the specific effect. On the other hand, when a small win game with a low advantage is awarded, if the effect is executed depending on whether a first big win game with a high advantage is awarded, the effect is executed depending on whether the current situation will be a better game situation than the current situation, so it is easy to increase interest in the specific effect.

(10) The special effects are not executed when there is a special game resulting in a small win among the special games whose execution is suspended, but there is no special game resulting in a first big win. On the other hand, the special effects are executed even when there is no special game resulting in a small win among the special games whose execution is suspended, if there is a special game resulting in a first big win among the special games whose execution is suspended. In this way, the special effects are executed regardless of whether there is a special game resulting in a small win among the special games whose execution is suspended. On the other hand, if there is a first big win among the special games whose execution is suspended, the special effects are executed. For example, when a first big win game, which has a higher advantage than a small win game, is awarded, even if a special effect is executed when there is a special game resulting in a small win among the special games whose execution is suspended, it is difficult to excite the player because the small win game has a lower advantage than the first big win game. On the other hand, if a special presentation is given when there is a special game that will result in a first jackpot among the special games whose execution is on hold, it is possible to heighten the sense of expectation that a more advantageous first jackpot game will also be awarded when a more advantageous first jackpot game has been awarded, thereby increasing interest.

(11) When a small win is awarded in a special state, the expectation of winning a game ball is higher than when a small win is awarded in a specific low probability state or a specific high probability state. In this way, a specific effect that is not executed in a special state is executed only in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state where the expectation of winning a game ball is low. In the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state where the expectation of winning a game ball is low, a decrease in interest can be suppressed by executing a specific effect depending on whether there is a second special game that will result in a jackpot among the second special games whose execution is pending.

(12) In the special state, the specific low probability state, and the specific high probability state, small wins are awarded more frequently per unit time than in the normal low probability state. Furthermore, when a small win is awarded in a special state, the expectation of winning a game ball is higher than when a small win is awarded in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state. In such a special state where the expectation of winning a game ball is high, the player is more likely to feel excited by the award of a small win than in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state. On the other hand, in the specific low probability state and the specific high probability state where the expectation of winning a game ball is low, the player is less likely to feel excited by the award of a small win than in the special state, and furthermore, there is a risk of interest being reduced by the high frequency of small wins being awarded. When a small win is awarded in such a specific low probability state or specific high probability state, a specific presentation is executed depending on whether there is a special game that will result in a big win among the second special games whose execution is pending, so that a decrease in interest can be suppressed.

(13) The specific effects are executed depending on whether there is a second special game that will result in the first jackpot, which is the jackpot with the highest degree of advantage among all jackpots. This makes it possible to draw attention to the second special game, the execution of which is on hold, and thus to increase interest.

The above-described embodiment can be modified as follows. The above-described embodiments and the following modified examples can be combined with each other to the extent that they are not technically inconsistent.

- Specific and special performances may be performed using decorative lamps 17 instead of or in addition to the performance display device 25. Specific and special performances may also be performed using speakers 18 instead of or in addition to the performance display device 25.

- The gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to execute a special effect during jackpot play, targeting one or both of the first special game whose execution is on hold and the second special game whose execution is on hold. For example, the gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to execute a special effect during jackpot play, when the first special game that results in the first jackpot is among the first special games that are the targets of the special effect.

- The gaming machine 10 may be configured to be capable of executing a specific effect for one or both of the first special game and the second special game during a small win game. That is, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a specific effect for the first special game during execution of the first special game, when the first special game is being executed and the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, and when the first control is interrupted, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a specific effect for the first special game during execution of the first special game, when the first special game is being executed and the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, and when the first control is interrupted, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a specific effect depending on whether the first special game resulting in a first big win is among the first special games during execution of the first special game, when the first special game is being executed and the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, and when the first control is interrupted, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a specific effect.

・The game machine 10 may be configured so that a small win lottery may be held when a game ball enters the first starting hole 26. When the first special game results in a small win and the first special symbol display unit 22a displays a small win symbol as a fixed stop during the execution of the second special game, the main CPU 40a may force the second special game being executed to be terminated and the second special symbol display unit 22b to display a losing symbol as a fixed stop. For example, when the second special game is being executed and the first special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the second control may be interrupted, and a specific performance may be executed for the first special game whose execution is suspended while the second control is interrupted. In addition, when the second special game is being executed and the first special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game is awarded, the second control is interrupted, and the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a specific effect for the second special game whose execution is suspended when the second control is interrupted. The probability of a small win being triggered by the entry of a game ball into the first starting hole 26 may be set arbitrarily. In addition, in a normal low probability state, when the first special game ends and a small win game is awarded, the gaming machine 10 may execute a specific effect during the small win game. In a normal low probability state, when the second special game ends and a small win game is awarded, the gaming machine 10 may not execute a specific effect during the small win game.

- A special effect may be executed in place of an ending effect. In other words, when a special effect is executed, the gaming machine 10 may execute the special effect in place of the ending effect, without executing the ending effect.

- The special effects may be executable only when some of the multiple types of jackpot games (for example, the first jackpot game) have been awarded. For example, if the special effects are configured to be executable only during the first jackpot game, more attention will be paid to the fact that the first jackpot game has been awarded, which can increase interest. In addition, for example, the special effects may be configured to be executable during the second and third jackpot games out of the first to third jackpot games. When configured in this way, the second and third jackpot games, which are less advantageous than the first jackpot game, can be enjoyed, which can increase interest.

・The special effects may be executed not only during the ending period, but also during the opening period or during a round of play. When executing a special effect during a round of play, it may be executed in a specific round determined in advance, or the round of play in which the special effect is executed may be determined by lottery. In this case, it is assumed that the number of special games pending execution is greater in a round of play closer to the final round of play in the jackpot game, and attention to the execution of the special effect can be increased. As a result, attention to the execution of the special effect gradually increases as the jackpot game progresses, and interest can be improved. In addition, the special effect may be executed over multiple rounds of play. In addition, the timing of executing the special effect may be different depending on the type of jackpot game. For example, the special effect may be executed during the opening period during the first jackpot game, and the special effect may be executed during the ending period during the second and third jackpot games.

- The gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to execute a special effect if there is a special game that will result in a second jackpot among the special games on hold, even if there is no special game that will result in a first jackpot among the special games on hold. Similarly, the gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to execute a special effect if there is a special game that will result in a third jackpot among the special games on hold, even if there is no special game that will result in a first jackpot among the special games on hold.

- The content of the special effect may be different when there is "1" second special game that results in the first jackpot among the second special games that are the subject of the special effect, compared to when there are "2 or more" second special games that result in the first jackpot.

- When a decision is made to execute a special effect, the execution of a new special effect may be restricted until all second special games that are the subject of the special effect at the time the decision was made to execute the special effect have ended. For example, if a decision is made to execute a special effect when the execution of two second special games is on hold, it may be possible not to decide to execute a special effect until the end of the small win game and the end of two second special games.

- When there is no second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games that are the subject of the special effects, the probability of winning the special effects lottery may be different when there is a second special game that will result in a second jackpot, when there is a second special game that will result in a third jackpot, when there is a second special game that will result in a small jackpot, and when there is a second special game that will result in a miss. For example, the probability of winning the special effects lottery may be increased in the order of "miss < small jackpot < third jackpot < second jackpot". Also, the special effects may be configured to be executed whenever there is a second special game that will result in a first jackpot among the second special games that are the subject of the special effects.

- In a special state, when the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game occurs, a performance different from the small win performance and the specific performance in the above embodiment may be executed during the small win game. For example, in a special state, when a game ball enters the second large winning port 31 during a small win game, an image including the text information "+15" may be displayed on the performance display device 25 to notify the award of 15 game balls. On the other hand, in the normal low probability state, specific low probability state, and specific high probability state, when the second special game resulting in a small win ends and a small win game occurs, the above "performance different from the small win performance and the specific performance" may not be executed during the small win game.

・When the main CPU 40a starts the first special game while the second special game that will result in a big win is being executed, the main CPU 40a may forcibly set the first special game as a loss. Similarly, when the main CPU 40a starts the second special game while the first special game that will result in a big win is being executed, the main CPU 40a may forcibly set the second special game as a loss. Also, when the main CPU 40a starts the first special game while the second special game that will result in a small win is being executed, the main CPU 40a may forcibly set the first special game as a loss. Similarly, when the main CPU 40a starts the second special game while the first special game that will result in a small win is being executed, the main CPU 40a may forcibly set the second special game as a loss. Also, when the main CPU 40a starts the second special game while the first special game that will result in a big win is being executed, the main CPU 40a may forcibly set the second special game as a loss. In this way, when "forcibly setting a loss", the main CPU 40a may forcibly set the game as a loss after performing a winning lottery, or may forcibly set the game as a loss without performing a winning lottery.

- The types of special effects are not limited to the three types described in the above embodiment, but may be two or less types, or four or more types. In addition, the form of the special effects may be changed, and for example, even if there are multiple types of special effects, some of the effects (for example, the first stage effects in the above embodiment) may not be common.

- For example, if a big win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in one of the first and second special games while the other special game is being executed, the one special game may be interrupted, and the execution of the interrupted one special game may be resumed after the big win game ends. Similarly, if a small win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the other special game while the first and second special games are being executed, the one special game may be interrupted, and the execution of the interrupted one special game may be resumed after the small win game ends. Also, if a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the other special game while the first and second special games are being executed, a losing symbol may be derived in the one special game, and the one special game may be ended. In addition, if a losing symbol is displayed as a confirmed stop in one of the first and second special games while the other special game is being played, the one special game may be interrupted, and the interrupted one special game may be resumed after a variable interval has elapsed after the other special game has ended.

- When the game state is controlled to one of the specific low probability state, specific high probability state, and special state, if the first special game results in a jackpot, the execution of the presentation game based on the second special game may be stopped even if the second special game is being executed, and a specified jackpot notification presentation may be executed on the presentation display device 25. The specified jackpot notification presentation may be a presentation in which an image including text information such as "Opportunity changing" is displayed on the presentation display device 25.

- When in the variable time shortening state, it may be configured so that, compared to when in the non-variable shortening state, only the variable time of the second special game out of the first and second special games is shorter (or tends to be shorter). In this case, for example, when in the variable time shortening state, it may be configured so that, compared to when in the non-variable shortening state, the variable time of the first special game is longer (or tends to be longer).

・In the special game, after the jackpot pattern is displayed as a fixed stop, the jackpot game may be awarded when a game ball enters the gate 33. In this case, after the jackpot pattern is displayed as a fixed stop, the jackpot game may be awaited until the game ball enters the gate 33. At this time, the performance display device 25 may be configured to execute a performance that encourages the game ball to enter the gate 33. Here, the gate 33 is used as an example, but the jackpot game may be awarded when a game ball enters an entrance other than the gate 33. The entrance other than the gate 33 may be an entrance where the payout condition for the prize ball is established when the game ball enters, or it may be an entrance where the start condition for the game such as the special game or the normal game is not established unless the payout condition for the prize ball is established. Similarly, after a small win symbol is displayed as a confirmed stop in a special game, a small win may be awarded when a game ball enters gate 33, just as when a big win symbol is derived in a special game.

- When controlled to any of the special state, specific low probability state, and specific high probability state, a presentation game based on the first special game may be configured to be executed. Also, when controlled to the normal low probability state, a presentation game based on the second special game may be configured to be executed. For example, when a presentation game based on the first special game and a presentation game based on the second special game are executed, each presentation game may be executed separately in different display areas of the presentation display device 25, or each presentation game may be executed separately on different display devices.

- The number of game balls consumed (number of game balls launched) in the above embodiment is the number of game balls launched into the game area 21, and can also be considered the number of valid balls. The number of game balls paid out in the above embodiment is the number of game balls paid out as prize balls, and can also be considered the number of prize balls. This number of prize balls may be the number of prize balls when all balls enter the winning holes, or it may be the number of prize balls excluding the prize balls paid out when balls enter some of the winning holes.

・As pachinko gaming machines that can be controlled to a high probability state, there are specifications that control the state to a high probability state until the next big win is awarded, specifications that control the state to a high probability state until a fall lottery is won (falling machine), and specifications that control the state to a high probability state until a predetermined number of pattern change games are completed (ST machine). In addition, pachinko gaming machines that can be controlled to a high probability state include specifications that control the state to a high probability state when a game ball passes through a specific area (V probability change machine). The pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied in any of these specifications. It may also be a pachinko gaming machine with specifications that combine the above-mentioned falling machine and V probability change machine. In addition, the V probability change machine has a specification that has a single big prize opening and generates a specific round game. The V-type probability variable machine has a specification that generates a specific round game by having multiple large prize winning ports, consisting of a large prize winning port (V prize winning port) that opens in a specific round game and a large prize winning port that opens in a round game other than the specific round game. Each embodiment may be embodied in a V-type probability variable machine of any specification. The above embodiment does not have to be a gaming machine that can be controlled to a small win rush.

- In the above embodiment, the sub-substrate 41 may be a sub-general control substrate, and a display control substrate that specializes in controlling the performance display device 25, a light emission control substrate that specializes in controlling the decorative lamps 17, and a sound control substrate that specializes in controlling the speaker 18 may be provided separately from the sub-substrate 41. Such a sub-general control substrate and substrates that control other performances may be included in the sub-substrate.

- In the above embodiment, the main CPU 40a of the main board 40 and the sub-CPU 41a of the sub-board 41 may be mounted on a single board. Also, in the above other example, the display control board, the light emission control board, and the sound control board may be arbitrarily combined to form a single board or multiple boards.

The technical ideas that can be understood from this embodiment and its modifications will be described.
(i) The game state includes a normal state, and in the first game state, the number of times the small win game is awarded per unit time is greater than in the normal state, making it possible to increase the number of balls held, whereas in the second game state, the number of times the small win game is awarded per unit time is greater than in the normal state, but the number of balls held does not increase.

(b) The probability that the second special symbol variation game will result in a small win is the same in the first gaming state, the second gaming state, and the normal state.

(c) The probability that the second special pattern change game will result in the small win is higher than the probability that the second special pattern change game will result in the big win, and when the first special pattern change game is being played, when the second special pattern change game which will result in the big win ends and the big win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the specific performance is not executed.

(ii) In the second game state, when the second special pattern change game is being executed and the first special pattern change game resulting in the small win is ended and the small win game is awarded, the second control is interrupted, and when the second control is interrupted, the specific performance is executed depending on whether the first special pattern change game resulting in the big win is among the first special pattern change games whose execution is suspended.

(e) A gaming machine in which the execution of a pattern change game can be suspended, a small win game is awarded after the end of a pattern change game which results in a small win, and a big win game is awarded after the end of a pattern change game which results in a big win, is provided with a first start port, a second start port different from the first start port, a game control means capable of controlling the execution of the pattern change game, a game state control means for controlling the game state, and a performance execution means for executing a performance, and the pattern change game includes a first special pattern change game which can be executed in response to a game ball entering the first start port, and a second special pattern change game which can be executed in response to a game ball entering the second start port, and the game control means performs a first control regarding the execution of the first special pattern change game and a second special pattern change game which can be executed in response to a game ball entering the second start port. and a second control regarding the execution of the pattern change game, and the first special pattern change game and the second special pattern change game can be executed simultaneously, and the game state includes a first game state and a second game state, and when the small win game is awarded in the first game state, it is configured to make it easier to acquire game balls when the small win game is awarded compared to when the small win game is awarded in the second game state, and the effects include specific effects that can be executed for the pattern change game whose execution is suspended, and in the first game state, when the first special pattern change game is being executed, the second special pattern change game which results in the small win is ended and the small win game is awarded. When the first control is interrupted, the specific performance is not executed when the first control is interrupted. On the other hand, when the first special symbol changing game is being executed in the second gaming state, when the second special symbol changing game which is the small win is ended and the small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the specific performance is executed depending on whether the second special symbol changing game which is the big win is included in the second special symbol changing game whose execution is suspended. In the first gaming state, when the first special symbol changing game is being executed, when the second special symbol changing game which is the small win is ended and the small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted. When the first control is interrupted, a predetermined effect different from the specific effect can be executed, while in the second game state, when the first special symbol change game is being executed and the second special symbol change game resulting in the small win is ended and the small win game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, the predetermined effect is not executed and it is decided to execute the specific effect, the specific effect is executed, but until the second special symbol change game whose execution is pending that is the subject of the specific effect is ended, the execution of the new specific effect is restricted even if the execution of the second special symbol change game resulting in the big win is newly suspended.

(F) In the case where the specific effect is executed while the first control is interrupted, the effect execution means executes an effect that is executed regardless of whether the second special pattern change game that will result in the jackpot is included among the second special pattern change games whose execution is suspended, and then executes an effect that is executed depending on whether the second special pattern change game that will result in the jackpot is included among the second special pattern change games whose execution is suspended.

(G) The effects include a special effect that can be executed for the symbol change game whose execution is suspended, and when the first special symbol change game is being executed, when the second special symbol change game that is the jackpot ends and the jackpot game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the first control is interrupted, if the second special symbol change game that is the jackpot does not exist among the second special symbol change games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is not executed, whereas when the first special symbol change game is being executed, when the second special symbol change game that is the jackpot ends and the jackpot game is awarded, when the first control is interrupted, and when the second special symbol change game that is the jackpot ends and the jackpot game is awarded, the first control is interrupted, and when the second special symbol change game that is the jackpot exists among the second special symbol change games whose execution is suspended, the special effect is executed, and the display content of the effect execution means when the specific effect is executed is different from the display content of the effect execution means when the special effect is executed.

10... gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine), 25... performance display device, 26... first start port, 27... second start port, 40a... main CPU, 41a... sub-CPU.

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine in which the execution of a symbol-changing game can be suspended, a specific winning game is awarded after the end of a symbol-changing game resulting in a specific winning, and a special winning game is awarded after the end of a symbol-changing game resulting in a special winning,
A performance execution means for executing a performance is provided,
When the special winning game is awarded, the advantage is higher than when the specific winning game is awarded,
The effects include specific effects that can be executed for a symbol variation game whose execution is suspended,
The specific performance can be executed for a symbol variation game whose execution is suspended when the specific winning game is awarded, regardless of whether the game ball enters a winning hole into which the game ball is permitted in the specific winning game .
When the specific winning game is awarded, if there is a symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, the probability of executing the specific performance is higher than when there is no symbol change game resulting in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended;
The specific performance is executed regardless of whether there is a symbol variation game that will be the specific winning among the symbol variation games whose execution is suspended,
In the case where the specific performance is executed when the specific winning game is awarded, the performance execution means executes a first performance that is executed regardless of whether or not there is a symbol change game that will result in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, and then executes a second performance that is executed depending on whether or not there is a symbol change game that will result in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended;
When it is decided to execute the specific performance and the specific performance is executed, even if the specific performance ends, the specific performance will not be executed again until the pattern change game that is the target of the specific performance ends , even if the execution of the new pattern change game that will be the special hit is put on hold.
The effects include a special effect that can be executed for a symbol variation game whose execution is suspended when the special winning game is awarded,
When the specific winning game is awarded, the special performance is not executed,
When the special winning game is awarded, even if there is a symbol change game that will be the specific winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, if there is no symbol change game that will be the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, the special performance is not executed,
When the special winning game is awarded, if there is a symbol change game that will result in the special winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended, the special performance is executed even if there is no symbol change game that will result in the specific winning among the symbol change games whose execution is suspended.
A gaming machine characterized in that the display content of the effect execution means when the specific effect is executed is different from the display content of the effect execution means when the special effect is executed.