JP7630851B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

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

In conventional gaming machines, when a gaming ball enters a starting hole provided in the gaming area, a determination is made as to whether or not a jackpot game will be awarded, and if it is determined that a jackpot game will be awarded, it is common for the machine to award the jackpot game.

There is also a gaming machine that increases the interest of the player by retaining and storing judgment information used to determine whether or not a jackpot game will occur, and displaying the reserved memory status as a display of the number of reserved balls (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2017-184834 A

However, there is still room for improvement to further increase gaming interest.

In light of this situation, the present invention aims to further increase interest in gaming.

The gaming machine according to the present invention is equipped with a main control means and a presentation control means capable of receiving a predetermined signal from the main control means, and is equipped with a start port formed in a game area through which a gaming ball can flow down, a reservation storage means for reservation-storing judgment information acquired when a gaming ball enters the start port, a judgment means for judgment on the basis of the judgment information as to whether or not a special game advantageous to a player should be executed, and a reservation display means for displaying reservation information according to the number of the reservation memories, and the presentation control means is capable of shifting and displaying the reservation information displayed on the reservation display means according to a decrease in the number of the reservation memories, and within a predetermined period of time, If the number of pending memories increases and then decreases, it is possible to update and display the pending information without skipping the process of change, and when a signal indicating that the number of pending memories will become a second number that is multiple times less than the first number is received from the main control means while a first number of pending information is being displayed in the pending display means, the pending information corresponding to the first number is erased without being moved and the pending information corresponding to the number one more than the second number is moved and displayed, thereby making it possible to display the pending information corresponding to the second number.

By configuring it in this way, when the result of the determination is that the second special game will be played in the specific game state, the player can focus on whether the first symbol will be determined and the game will enter the normal game state, or whether the second symbol will be determined and the specific game state will be maintained. This can further increase the player's interest in the game.

The present invention can further increase the interest in gaming.

1 is a front view of the appearance of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is an external rear view of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. A figure showing a special pattern winning determination table related to the first embodiment of the present invention. 1A to 1C are diagrams showing a big win special pattern determination table, a small win special pattern determination table, and a miss special pattern determination table according to the first embodiment of the present invention. A figure showing details of the big win special pattern and details of the small win special pattern in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a game state control table according to the first embodiment of the present invention. A figure showing a normal pattern winning judgment table and a normal pattern determination table related to the first embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows a special pattern change pattern table for the first starting port in a normal game state, a special pattern change pattern table for the second starting port in a time-saving game state, a special pattern change pattern table for the second starting port in a normal game state, and a normal pattern change pattern table in the first embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a diagram showing a judgment information storage area of a main RAM according to the first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a main control board main process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart showing a setting value changing process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart showing a setting value confirmation process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing main control board timer interrupt processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing an input SW detection process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. A flowchart showing the processing when the first starting hole is detected in the first embodiment of the present invention. A flowchart showing the processing when the second starting hole is detected in the first embodiment of the present invention. A flowchart showing the processing performed when the second large prize opening is detected in the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing a special symbol-related process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing at the start of special pattern variation according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing a special symbol winning determination process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing processing during special pattern fluctuation according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 13 is a flowchart showing the jackpot 1 game processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing a small win game processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention. A flowchart showing the second type jackpot transition control processing related to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing the jackpot 2 game processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing normal pattern related processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing at the start of normal pattern fluctuation according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing processing during normal pattern fluctuation according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing processing during a normal winning pattern according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing the main processing of the performance control board according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing the performance control board timer interrupt processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 10 is a flowchart showing a main command receiving process (1/2) according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 13 is a flowchart showing a main command receiving process (2/2) according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart showing a main process of an image and sound control unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing an image generating process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart showing an image and sound control unit timer interrupt process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart showing a main process of a light emission drive control unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart showing a light emission control process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart showing a timer interrupt process of a light emission drive control unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a time chart 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a time chart 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 3 is a time chart 3 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a time chart 4 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a time chart 5 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a time chart 6 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 7 is a time chart 7 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 8 is a time chart 8 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 9 is a time chart 9 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 8A to 8C are animation diagrams corresponding to time charts 8 and 9 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a time chart 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a time chart 11 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a time chart 12 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a front view of a game board according to a second embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a special pattern big win determination table and a special pattern small win determination table according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a big win special symbol determination table and a small win special symbol determination table according to a second embodiment of the present invention. A figure showing details of the big win special pattern and details of the small win special pattern in the second embodiment of the present invention. A figure showing an ordinary pattern winning judgment table and an ordinary pattern determination table related to the second embodiment of the present invention. A figure showing a special pattern variation pattern table related to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a transition diagram illustrating a feature according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

First Embodiment
A first embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described as an example of a gaming machine according to the present invention. In the following description, "front,""back,""left,""right,""upper," and "lower" refer to the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 as seen from the player's side.

(External Configuration of Pachinko Game Machine 1)
As shown in Fig. 1, the pachinko game machine 1 has an outer frame 2 for installation on a game machine installation island (not shown) in a game parlor, a middle frame 3 pivotally supported by the outer frame 2 and removably holding a game board 6 shown in Fig. 3, a glass frame 4 pivotally supported by the middle frame 3, facing the front side of the game board 6, and allowing the game board 6 to be viewed through transparent glass, and a tray member 5 pivotally supported by the middle frame 3, located below the glass frame 4, and capable of storing game balls. The glass frame 4 and the tray member 5 may be configured as separate types or as an integrated type.

The middle frame 3 is provided with a launching device (not shown) for launching the game balls into the game area 7 of the game board 6, and a launching handle 8 for causing the launching device to perform a launching operation. The launching handle 8 is held by the player and can be rotated within a predetermined range, and the launch strength when launching the game balls into the game area 7 can be adjusted depending on the amount of rotation. For example, when the launching handle 8 is rotated a first amount of rotation (first launch strength), the game ball is launched to the left of the game area 7 (so-called "left hit" is possible), and when the launching handle 8 is rotated a second amount of rotation larger than the first amount of rotation (second launch strength), the game ball is launched to the right of the game area 7 (so-called "right hit" is possible).

Although not shown, the launch handle 8 is provided with a handle touch sensor. This handle touch sensor turns ON when the player is holding the launch handle 8, and the ON signal is input to the payout control board 300. This makes it possible to know that the launch handle 8 is being held by the player.

The glass frame 4 is also provided with a light-emitting device 9 (lamp, LED, etc.) that can light up to decorate the pachinko game machine 1. For example, when a jackpot is determined to have been hit in the special symbol hit determination process described below, the device can emit rainbow light to notify the player that a jackpot has been hit.

The glass frame 4 is also provided with a speaker 10, which is capable of outputting voice and sound effects. For example, when the normal game state described below is being controlled, music corresponding to the normal game state can be output, and when the time-saving game state described below is being controlled, music corresponding to the time-saving game state can be output.

The tray member 5 is composed of an upper tray 5a and a lower tray 5b, and when the amount of game balls stored in the upper tray 5a exceeds a certain amount, the game balls are dispensed into the lower tray 5b. The tray member 5 is also provided with a ball removal button 11 for discharging the game balls stored in the upper tray 5a into the lower tray 5b at the end of a game, a ball lending button 12 for requesting the payout of game balls from a game ball lending device (not shown), a card return button 13 for requesting the return of a valuable medium inserted into the insertion port of the game ball lending device, a balance display 12a for displaying the remaining balance of the valuable medium, and a ball lending available lamp 12b for notifying that ball lending is possible by operating the ball lending button 12.

The tray member 5 is also provided with an effect button 14 and an effect lever 15 that can be operated by the player when an operation promotion effect is executed, etc. The tray member 5 is also provided with a cross key button 16 that can be operated by the player to adjust the volume of the voice and sound effects output from the speaker 10, adjust the amount of light emitted from the light-emitting device 9, and adjust the amount of light emitted from the image display device 26 described below. The effect button 14 and the effect lever 15 may be provided independently of each other, or may be provided as one unit.

(Configuration of the rear side of the pachinko gaming machine 1)
Next, the configuration of the rear side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. On the rear side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, various control boards such as a main control board 100, a performance control board 200, a payout control board 300, a payout device 304, and a power supply board 400 are provided (to be precise, these various control boards are attached to the rear side of the inner frame 3).

The main control board 100 is also provided with a RAM clear switch 105. The RAM clear switch 105 is a switch for initializing game information that is rewritten as games are played in the area of the main RAM 103. For example, if the game arcade closes while the game is still in the time-saving game mode, the manager can turn the power on while pressing the RAM clear switch 105, clearing the game information in the time-saving game mode, and allowing the game to start from the normal game mode when the arcade opens the next day.

The RAM clear switch 105 is also a switch for switching the setting value in the setting change state described below. Details will be described later in the flowchart, but for example, in the case of six setting values, when the setting value "1" is displayed on the display 104 described below, pressing the RAM clear switch 105 once switches the setting value from "1" to "2", and when the RAM clear switch 105 is pressed once again, the setting value switches from "2" to "3", and thereafter, each time the RAM clear switch 105 is pressed once, the setting value switches to "4", "5", and "6", and when the setting value "6" is displayed on the display 104, pressing the RAM clear switch 105 once switches the setting value from "6" to "1".

Although the RAM clear switch 105 is provided on the main control board 100, it may be provided on the power supply board 400 or directly on the inner frame 3, for example, as long as it can be input to the main control board 100.

The main control board 100 is also provided with a setting change keyhole 31 (also referred to as a setting key SW in this embodiment). The setting change keyhole 31 is used when setting one of the multiple setting value stages described below. Specifically, when a setting change key (not shown) managed by a gaming parlor staff member is inserted into the setting change keyhole 31 and rotated 90 degrees clockwise (rotating from vertical to horizontal), and the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned ON (power SW 400a is turned ON) while pressing the above-mentioned RAM clear switch 105, the setting change state in which a setting value can be set is entered. Details of the setting change state will be described later in the flow chart.

The setting change keyhole 31 is also used to check the currently set setting values. Specifically, when a setting change key managed by a store clerk is inserted into the setting change keyhole 31 and rotated 90 degrees clockwise (from vertical to horizontal), and the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned ON (power SW 400a is turned ON), the machine enters a setting confirmation state in which the setting values can be checked. Details of the setting confirmation state will be described later in the flow chart.

The setting change keyhole 31 can be rotated by the setting change key, and for example, the main CPU 101 can detect three positions (states) in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, and the diagonal direction.

Note that, although the setting change keyhole 31 is provided on the main control board 100, the location of the installation is not limited to this. For example, the setting change keyhole 31 may be provided on the middle frame 3.

The main control board 100 is also provided with a display 104. If the display 104 is in a setting change state or a setting confirmation state, the setting value is displayed, and if the display 104 is not in a setting change state or a setting confirmation state, the display 104 displays game performance information calculated, for example, using the formula "(number of game balls paid out in normal game state ÷ number of outs in normal game state) × 100".

In addition, when the game performance information is not in a setting change state or setting confirmation state (for example, when interrupts are permitted in step S18 of FIG. 12), a process of calculating the game performance information is performed for each interrupt (for example, every 4 ms), and the current section and three previous sections (one section before, two sections before, and three sections before) can be displayed at each specified display timing (for example, every 5 seconds). In other words, the display is switched as follows: display of the current section → a specified time has elapsed (5 seconds has elapsed) → display of the past section (1) → a specified time has elapsed (5 seconds has elapsed) → display of the past section (2) → a specified time has elapsed (5 seconds has elapsed) → display of the past section (3) → a specified time has elapsed (5 seconds has elapsed) → display of the current section.

(Configuration of the game board 6)
Next, the configuration of the game board 6 of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

The game board 6 is made of plywood or a transparent synthetic resin material, and an image display device 26 is removably attached to the back side. The game board 6 also has a game area 7 in which game balls can roll, and an outer rail member 18 and an inner rail member 19 for guiding game balls shot out from the launching device to the game area 7. In addition, the game area 7 includes a gate member 20 through which game balls can pass, a first starting hole 21 through which game balls can enter, a stage 17 for facilitating entry into the first starting hole 21, a second starting hole 22 through which game balls can enter, a normal winning hole 23 through which game balls can enter, a first large winning hole 24 through which game balls can enter when a big win 1 game or a big win 2 game is being played, a second large winning hole 32 through which game balls can enter when a small win game is being played, an outlet 25 for discharging game balls that do not enter any of the winning holes to the outside of the game area (a game ball discharge gutter), a movable body 28 that can move up and down, and other game nails and windmills (not shown).

(Regarding the gate member 20)
The gate member 20 is provided in the right center of the game area 7, and allows the game ball to pass when a so-called "right hit" is performed, in which the game ball is shot to the right side of the game area 7. In addition, the gate member 20 is always open upward, and always allows the game ball to pass. When the game ball passes through the gate member 20, a "passing gate detection time process" described later is performed, and a "normal symbol hit determination process" is performed to determine whether or not to project a protruding member (not shown) provided in the second starting hole 22, and a "normal symbol change game" is executed to derive the determination result of the normal symbol hit determination process after the normal symbol change time has elapsed.

When a normal pattern change game based on passing through gate member 20 is being played, if a game ball also passes through gate member 20, the execution of the normal pattern change game based on that passage is put on hold, and up to a maximum of "4" balls can be put on hold, excluding the normal pattern change game that is being played. Specifically, a reserved memory area for the normal symbol changing game is provided in the main RAM 103, and the reserved memory area is composed of a "change memory area" corresponding to the currently changing normal symbol changing game, a "first memory area" corresponding to the normal symbol changing game that will be played after the currently changing normal symbol changing game ends, and then a "second memory area", a "third memory area", and a "fourth memory area". When the currently changing normal symbol changing game ends, the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "first memory area" is transferred to the "change memory area", the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "second memory area" is transferred to the "first memory area", the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "third memory area" is transferred to the "second memory area", the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "fourth memory area" is transferred to the "third memory area", and the "fourth memory area" becomes empty.

(Regarding the first starting port 21)
The first starting hole 21 is provided in the center of the game area 7, and is capable of receiving a game ball when a so-called "left shot" is being performed, in which the game ball is shot to the left side of the game area 7. The first starting hole 21 is always open upward, and always allows the game ball to enter. When a game ball enters the first starting hole 21, for example, a "3" game ball is paid out as a prize ball, and if any reserved memory area is empty in addition to the prize ball, a "pattern change game" is executed in which a special symbol hit determination process is performed, a special symbol and a decorative symbol image and a fourth symbol image are displayed in a variable manner, and the result of the special symbol hit determination process (special symbol and decorative symbol) is derived (determined display) after a variable time described below has elapsed.

When a symbol change game based on a ball entering the first starting hole 21 is being played, if another game ball enters the first starting hole 21, the execution of the symbol change game based on that ball entry is put on hold, and up to four balls can be put on hold, excluding the symbol change game that is being played.

Specifically, the main RAM 103 is provided with a reserved memory area for the symbol change game, and the reserved memory area is composed of a "change memory area" corresponding to the currently changing symbol change game, a "first memory area" corresponding to the symbol change game to be played after the currently changing symbol change game ends, and the "second memory area", "third memory area", and "fourth memory area" as shown in FIG. 11(A). Then, when the currently changing symbol change game ends with judgment information (random number value) stored in all reserved memory areas, the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "first memory area" is transferred to the "change memory area", the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "second memory area" is transferred to the "first memory area", the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "third memory area" is transferred to the "second memory area", the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "fourth memory area" is transferred to the "third memory area", and the "fourth memory area" becomes empty.

Note that the first starting hole 21 is an entry hole through which the game ball can enter, but it may also be configured as a passing area through which the game ball can pass.

(Regarding the second starting hole 22)
The second starting hole 22 is provided in the right center of the game area 7, and is capable of receiving a game ball when a so-called "right hit" is performed, in which the game ball is launched to the right side of the game area 7. Unlike the first starting hole 21, the second starting hole 22 is not always open upward, and does not allow game balls to enter in principle (is in a "closed" state). In other words, the second starting hole 22 has a protruding member that can protrude forward, and only when this protruding member protrudes forward (when in an "open" state) can a game ball enter.

Regarding whether or not the protruding member is protruded forward to allow the game ball to enter, if a normal winning symbol is determined in the normal winning symbol determination process, it can be opened and closed in the opening and closing manner shown in "Opening and closing manner of the second starting hole" in FIG. 9 described later. Then, when a game ball enters the second starting hole 22, for example, a "2" game ball is paid out as a prize ball, and if any reserved memory area is free in addition to the prize ball, a pattern change game is executed.

When a symbol change game based on a ball entering the second starting hole 22 is being played, if a game ball enters the second starting hole 22, the execution of the symbol change game based on that ball entry is put on hold, and up to four balls can be put on hold, excluding the symbol change game being played. The specific configuration of the main RAM 103 related to the hold is the same as that of the first starting hole 21 described above, so a description is omitted.

In addition, a protruding member that can move in the forward and backward directions is used as the second starting port 22, but a so-called "electric tulip" with movable wings may also be used.

In addition, the second starting hole 22 is an entry hole through which the game ball can enter, but it may also be configured as a passing area through which the game ball can pass.

In addition, in this embodiment, the series of steps in which a game ball enters the first starting hole 21 and the second starting hole 22, a special symbol hit determination process is performed, the special symbol, decorative symbol image, and fourth symbol image are displayed in a variable manner, and the determination result of the special symbol hit determination process (special symbol, decorative symbol image, and fourth symbol image) is derived (determined display) after the variation time has elapsed is sometimes referred to as a "symbol change game" or simply as a "one-variation game." Also, the period during which the "symbol change game" is being played may be referred to as a "variation display."

In addition, when a game ball with a value of "1" enters the first starting hole 21, a "pattern change game" based on the game ball with a value of "1" is executed in the "first special pattern display device 27a" and the "image display device 26", and when a game ball with a value of "1" enters the second starting hole 22, a "pattern change game" based on the game ball with a value of "1" is executed in the "second special pattern display device 27b" and the "image display device 26". Thus, the "pattern change game" refers to the general term for the games played between the "first special pattern display device 27a" and the "image display device 26", and the general term for the games played between the "second special pattern display device 27b" and the "image display device 26".

In this embodiment, the derivation of the judgment result of the special symbol hit judgment process (special symbol, decorative symbol image, and fourth symbol image) after the fluctuation time in the symbol fluctuation game has elapsed is referred to as the "confirmed display" (of the special symbol, decorative symbol image, and fourth symbol image). On the other hand, in the symbol fluctuation game, stopping the decorative symbol image temporarily before the fluctuation time has elapsed is referred to as the "provisional stop display" of the decorative symbol image. An example of a "provisional stop display" is a "reach" as described below, or a "swaying change display" before the "confirmed display". The "swaying change display" before the "confirmed display" is, for example, a change display at a branching point where the decorative symbol image is "provisionally stopped" at, for example, "767" and then "confirmedly displayed" at "767", or a "provisionally stopped" display of a missing "767" is temporarily displayed, and a reversal performance is performed to derive "777" and then "confirmedly displayed" at "777".

(Regarding regular prize slot 23)
The normal winning openings 23 are provided in a total of four, three at the lower left and one at the lower right of the game area 7. The three normal winning openings 23 at the lower left are capable of receiving game balls when a so-called "left hit" is being performed, and the one normal winning opening 23 at the lower right is capable of receiving game balls when a so-called "right hit" is being performed. The normal winning openings 23 are always open upward like the first starting opening 21, and always allow game balls to enter. When a game ball enters the normal winning opening 23, for example, eight game balls are paid out as prize balls. The position of the normal winning openings 23 can be changed arbitrarily, and the number of the normal winning openings 23 may be less than four. The number of prize balls may be different between the three normal winning openings 23 at the lower left and the one normal winning opening 23 at the lower right.

(Regarding the first big prize slot 24)
The first large prize winning hole 24 is provided in the lower right part of the game area 7, and can receive a game ball when a so-called "right hit" is being performed. The first large prize winning hole 24 has an opening and closing door, and when a big win is determined in the special symbol hit determination process, a big win 1 game is executed, and the opening and closing door tilts forward to allow the game ball to enter. When a small win is determined in the special symbol hit determination process and the game ball passes through a specific area provided in the second large prize winning hole 32 described later, a big win 2 game is executed, and the opening and closing door tilts forward to allow the game ball to enter. When a game ball enters the first large prize winning hole 24, for example, a "12" game ball is paid out as a prize ball.

Here, in one big win game, the opening and closing door of the first big winning opening 24 opens (tilts forward) for the number of awarded rounds shown in FIG. 6. Then, it opens (tilts forward) for 29.5 S (S = seconds) per round, and if 10 game balls are detected by the first big winning opening detection SW 24a described below before 29.5 S has elapsed, the opening and closing door closes and the game proceeds to the next round, even if it is before 29.5 S has elapsed, and this is repeated for the specified number of rounds. On the other hand, if 29.5 S has elapsed before 10 game balls are detected by the first big winning opening detection SW 24a (so-called "attacker full open"), the opening and closing door closes and the game proceeds to the next round. In this case, one round of play ends before reaching the specified number of balls per round, which is 10 balls, which is disadvantageous for the player.

In this embodiment, a door that tilts forward is used as the first large prize opening 24, but a so-called "electric tulip" may also be used, or a "shutter member" that moves back and forth may also be used.

(Regarding the second big prize slot 32)
The second large winning hole 32 is provided in the lower right part of the game area 7, and the game ball can enter when so-called "right hit" is performed. In addition, a specific area through which the game ball can pass is provided inside the second large winning hole 32. When the game ball passes through the specific area, the big win 2 game is executed. That is, when a small win is determined in the special pattern hit determination process, the small win game is executed, and the opening and closing door tilts forward to allow the game ball to enter. When the game ball passes through the specific area while the small win game is being executed (for example, the first round), the small win game ends, and the big win 2 game is executed. In other words, in the case of jackpot 2 play, the opening and closing door of the first large prize opening 24 opens (tilts forward) for the number of awarded rounds shown in Figure 6, but since the first round is a small prize play, the second large prize opening 32 opens, and from the second round onwards the first large prize opening 24 opens.

In addition, a lid member (not shown) is provided in the specific area, and the lid member is in an open state when a small win game is being played. In this embodiment, the special symbols that will play a small win game are special symbols D, E, F, and G (see FIG. 6). In addition, in these special symbols, the lid member is in an open state, allowing the game ball to pass through to the specific area. In other words, in a small win game, as long as a "right hit" is performed, it is possible to pass the game ball through the specific area, and it is possible to play a big win 2 game.

(Regarding the image display device 26)
The image display device 26 has a display area covering almost the entire area, is provided to be located above the stage 17, and is capable of displaying a symbol-changing game and a performance image in the display area. That is, based on the game ball entering the first start hole 21 or the second start hole 22 and the special symbol hit determination process being performed, the left decorative symbol image 26a, the middle decorative symbol image 26b, and the right decorative symbol image 26c are changed (vertical scroll) in the variable display area. In addition, whether the game ball enters the first start hole 21 or the second start hole 22, the left decorative symbol image 26a, the middle decorative symbol image 26b, and the right decorative symbol image 26c are changed (vertical scroll) in the variable display area in common (the special symbol display device is different, but the decorative symbol image used in the image display device 26 is common).

Then, within the variation time described below, the presentation image is displayed, and when the variation time has elapsed, if there is a big win, for example, the "7" is stopped on each decorative pattern image, and the decorative pattern combination of "777" is displayed as a confirmed result, thereby announcing that there is a big win. Also, if there is a small win, for example, the decorative pattern combination of "111" or "222" is displayed as a confirmed result, thereby announcing that there is a small win. On the other hand, if there is a loss, for example, the decorative pattern combination of "765" is displayed as a confirmed result, thereby announcing that there is a loss.

In addition to each decorative pattern image, a fourth pattern image 26d (the fourth pattern following the above-mentioned left decorative pattern image 26a, center decorative pattern image 26b, and right decorative pattern image 26c) can be displayed in the lower right of the display area, and variable display and fixed display are possible in sync with each decorative pattern image. The image display device 26 also displays a first start port reserved ball number image 26e that displays the number of reserved balls for the pattern change game in the first start port 21 with "0" to "4", a second start port reserved ball number image 26f that displays the number of reserved balls for the pattern change game in the second start port 22 with "0" to "4", a first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g, a first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h, and a first start port third reserved ball image display area 26f that displays the number of reserved balls for the pattern change game in the first start port 21 with reserved ball images. i, the first start port fourth reserved ball image 26 display area j (in FIG. 3, simply indicated as "g", "h", "i", and "j"); the second start port first reserved ball image display area 26k, the second start port second reserved ball image display area 26l, the second start port third reserved ball image display area 26m, and the second start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n (in FIG. 3, simply indicated as "k", "l", "m", and "n") that display the number of reserved balls in the pattern change game in the second start port 22 with reserved ball images. Also, the variable icon display area 26o (in FIG. 3, simply indicated as "o") that displays an icon image corresponding to the currently executed pattern change game can be displayed.

In addition, the number of reserved balls displayed in the first start port reserved ball number image 26e and the number of reserved balls displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are in principle synchronized (except when a command error, etc. occurs), and the number of reserved balls displayed in the second start port reserved ball number image 26f and the number of reserved balls displayed in the second start port first reserved ball image display area 26k to the second start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n are in principle synchronized (except when a command error, etc. occurs). For example, if "4" is displayed in the first start port reserved ball number image 26e, "4" reserved ball images will be displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j.

The number of reserved balls displayed as the first start port reserved ball number image 26e and the number of reserved balls displayed as the second start port reserved ball number image 26f may be referred to as "number reserved balls" below. The reserved ball images displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g, the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h, the first start port third reserved ball image display area 26i, and the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j, and the reserved ball images displayed in the second start port first reserved ball image display area 26k, the second start port second reserved ball image display area 26l, the second start port third reserved ball image display area 26m, and the second start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n may be referred to as "reserved icons" below. The icon image displayed in the variable icon display area 26o may be referred to as the "variable icon" below.

The variable icon display area 26o, the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g, the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h, the first start port third reserved ball image display area 26i, the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j, the second start port first reserved ball image display area 26k, the second start port second reserved ball image display area 26l, the second start port third reserved ball image display area 26m, and the second start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n are displayed on the image display device 26, but are not limited to this and may be displayed on an LED or lamp, or may be displayed on a display device other than the image display device 26 (for example, a second image display device).

The left decorative pattern image 26a, the middle decorative pattern image 26b, the right decorative pattern image 26c, and the fourth pattern image 26d can display pattern images from "1" to "8", and if the result of the special pattern hit determination process is a jackpot, any one of the pattern combinations "333", "444", "555", "666", "777", or "888" can be displayed.

On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol hit determination process is a miss, it is possible to display a symbol combination other than the above-mentioned symbol combination. If the result is a miss, and a special symbol change pattern accompanied by a "reach" is determined in the special symbol change pattern described below, a symbol combination such as "767" will be displayed as confirmed, and if a special symbol change pattern without a "reach" is determined, a symbol combination such as "765" will be displayed as confirmed.

Note that "reach" refers to a state in which the left decorative pattern image 26a and the right decorative pattern image 26c display the same number image (temporary stop display), and the center decorative pattern image 26b is displayed in a variable manner. In this embodiment, if the result of the "special pattern hit determination process" is a jackpot, the process is configured to always go through "reach," so it can be said that this is a state in which the player can expect a jackpot.

The fourth pattern image 26d may not be a combination of the above-mentioned patterns, but may simply display a single digit number or a two digit number, or may be illuminated in different colors to indicate a jackpot, a loss, or the type of pattern.

(Regarding the pattern display device 27)
The symbol display device 27 is provided outside the game area (outside the outer rail member 18), which is an area of the game board 6 different from the game area 7. As shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 includes a first special symbol display 27a that is display-controlled by the main control board 100 and executes a symbol change game based on a game ball entering the first starting hole 21, and a second special symbol display 27b that executes a symbol change game based on a game ball entering the second starting hole 22. Here, the first special symbol display 27a and the second special symbol display 27b are configured with a "7" segment display, and in the symbol change game, the special symbol is made to flash "-" (horizontal bar pattern) from the start of the change, and when it is time to derive the judgment result of the special symbol hit judgment process, if it is a miss, the "-" (horizontal bar pattern) is turned on (determined display), and if it is a jackpot, for example, "7" is turned on (determined display). In other words, the "special pattern" refers to a pattern whose display is controlled by the main control board 100.

In this embodiment, the "special pattern" and the above-mentioned left decorative pattern image 26a, center decorative pattern image 26b, right decorative pattern image 26c, and fourth pattern image 26d may be simply referred to as "patterns" or "identification information." In addition, the left decorative pattern image 26a, center decorative pattern image 26b, right decorative pattern image 26c, and fourth pattern image 26d managed by the performance control board 200 may be collectively referred to as "sub-patterns."

As shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 is provided with a first special symbol reserved indicator 27c, which is display controlled by the main control board 100 and displays the number of reserved symbols for the symbol change game based on the game ball entering the first starting hole 21, and a second special symbol reserved indicator 27d, which displays the number of reserved symbols for the symbol change game based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 22.

The first special symbol reserved indicator 27c and the second special symbol reserved indicator 27d are each composed of two dot LED indicators, and can display the number of reserved balls by turning them off, on, or off. For example, when the number of reserved balls is "0", both dot LED indicators are "off", when the number of reserved balls is "1", one is "on" and the other is "off", when the number of reserved balls is "2", both are "on", when the number of reserved balls is "3", one is "on" and the other is "blinking", and when the number of reserved balls is "4", both are "blinking". In the following, the off state of the first special symbol reserved indicator 27c and the second special symbol reserved indicator 27d may be indicated by "○", the on state by "●", and the blinking state by "◎".

In addition, the first special pattern reserved display 27c is, in principle, synchronized with the number of reserved balls displayed as the above-mentioned first starting port reserved ball number image 26e and the number of reserved balls displayed in the first starting port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j (except when a command error, etc. occurs), and the second special pattern reserved display 27d is, in principle, synchronized with the number of reserved balls displayed as the above-mentioned second starting port reserved ball number image 26f and the number of reserved balls displayed in the second starting port first reserved ball image display area 26k to the second starting port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n (except when a command error, etc. occurs). For example, when both first special pattern reserved indicators 27c are "flashing" (when the number of reserved balls is "4"), "4" is displayed as the first start port reserved ball number image 26e, and "4" reserved ball images are displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j. In the following, the first special pattern reserved indicator 27c and the second special pattern reserved indicator 27d may be referred to as the "main reserved indicators".

Note that the first special symbol reserved indicator 27c and the second special symbol reserved indicator 27d are each configured with two dot LED indicators, but are not limited to this. For example, a liquid crystal display device whose display is controlled by the main control board 100 may be provided, and the display may be displayed on the liquid crystal display device.

As shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 is provided with a normal symbol display 27e that is display controlled by the main control board 100 and executes a normal symbol change game based on the passage of a game ball through the gate member 20. The normal symbol display 27e is composed of two dot LED displays, and in the normal symbol change game, from the start of the change, it repeatedly switches between turning one on and turning the other off, and turning one off and the other on. When it is time to derive the result of the normal symbol hit determination process, if there is a miss, it displays one light on and the other off to confirm, and if there is a normal hit, it displays one light off and the other on to confirm.

As shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 is also provided with a normal symbol reserved indicator 27f, which is display controlled by the main control board 100 and displays the number of reserved symbols for the normal symbol variation game based on the passage of the game ball through the gate member 20. Note that the normal symbol reserved indicator 27f is composed of "2" dot LED indicators, similar to the first special symbol reserved indicator 27c and the second special symbol reserved indicator 27d described above, and the display format of the reserved number is also the same, so a detailed description will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 is provided with a round indicator 27g that is display controlled by the main control board 100 and displays the "number of rounds (see the number of awarded rounds in FIG. 6)" indicating the number of times the first large prize opening 24 is opened in the above-mentioned jackpot 1 game and jackpot 2 game. The round indicator 27g is composed of "4" dot LED indicators, and is provided with "6" rounds and "10" rounds as shown in FIG. 6. For example, if a jackpot is won with special symbol A, the LED indicator for "6" rounds lights up and the others are turned off, and if a jackpot is won with special symbol C, the LED indicator for "10" rounds lights up and the others are turned off.

The game board 6 is also provided with a number of board lighting devices 29 (e.g., full-color LEDs), which, when the power is on to the pachinko game machine 1, emit light in a predetermined light pattern, enhancing the decorativeness of the pachinko game machine 1. For example, as shown by reference numeral 29 in FIG. 3, the board lighting devices 29 can decorate the entire game area 7 of the game board 6. In addition, all of the board lighting devices 29 can be turned off to highlight the display content of the image display device 26. The predetermined light emission pattern is made up of a number of light emission patterns that specify the light emission speed, light emission color, and which LEDs are to be emitted and which are not to be emitted.

In addition, on the right side of the image display device 26 (the so-called "center role"), a first special symbol sub-reserved indicator 29a and a second special symbol sub-reserved indicator 29b are provided as an embodiment of the board lighting device 29. The first special symbol sub-reserved indicator 29a and the second special symbol sub-reserved indicator 29b are controlled by the performance control board 200, and each is composed of "2" dot LED indicators, and the number of reserved balls can be displayed by "turning off", "turning on", or "flashing". For example, when the number of reserved balls is "0", both dot LED indicators are "turned off", when the number of reserved balls is "1", one is "turned on" and the other is "turned off", when the number of reserved balls is "2", both are "turned on", when the number of reserved balls is "3", one is "turned on" and the other is "flashing", and when the number of reserved balls is "4", both are "flashing". In the following, the first special symbol sub-reserve indicator 29a and the second special symbol sub-reserve indicator 29b may be indicated as off with a "○", lit with a "●", and flashing with a "◎".

In addition, the first special pattern sub-reserve display 29a is, in principle, synchronized with the number of reserved balls displayed as the first starting port reserved ball number image 26e and the number of reserved balls displayed in the first starting port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j (except when a command error, etc. occurs), and the second special pattern sub-reserve display 29b is, in principle, synchronized with the number of reserved balls displayed as the second starting port reserved ball number image 26f and the number of reserved balls displayed as the second starting port first reserved ball image display area 26k to the second starting port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n (except when a command error, etc. occurs). For example, when both first special symbol sub-reserve indicators 29a are "flashing" (when there are "4" reserved balls), "4" is displayed as the first start port reserved ball number image 26e, and "4" reserved ball images are displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j. In the following, the first special symbol sub-reserve indicator 29a and the second special symbol sub-reserve indicator 29b may be referred to as "sub-reserve indicators."

Note that the first special symbol sub-reserved display 29a and the second special symbol sub-reserved display 29b are each configured with two dot LED displays, but this is not limited to this. For example, they may be displayed on a display device (e.g., a second image display device) separate from the image display device 26.

(Internal Configuration of Pachinko Game Machine 1)
Next, the internal configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Note that the description of the configuration of the gaming board 6 in Fig. 3 will be omitted as appropriate.

The pachinko game machine 1 is equipped with a main control board 100, a performance control board 200, a payout control board 300, and a power supply board 400 on the rear side of the middle frame 3 (see FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 4, the main control board 100 and the performance control board 200 are connected via a harness or the like (not shown) so that only one-way communication from the main control board 100 to the performance control board 200 is possible. The main control board 100 and the payout control board 300 are connected via a harness or the like so that two-way communication is possible. The power supply board 400 is connected so that it can receive external power via a power plug (not shown) and supply the supplied external power to any of the main control board 100, the performance control board 200, and the payout control board 300.

The main control board 100 is connected via harnesses, relay boards, etc. to allow input from various switches, and is also connected via harnesses, relay boards, etc. to allow display control for various displays and drive control for various solenoids. The performance control board 200 is connected via harnesses, relay boards, etc. to allow input from various switches, and is also connected via harnesses, relay boards, etc. to allow display control for various displays.

(Regarding the main control board 100)
The main control board 100 is equipped with a main CPU 101 that performs control processing, a main ROM 102 that stores a control program required for the control processing, and a main RAM 103 that can read and write data required for the control processing. In addition to these, although not shown in the figure, the main control board 100 is also equipped with an interrupt controller circuit that issues an interrupt signal to the main CPU 101, a hardware random number generation circuit that generates random numbers within a certain range, and the like. The control processing in the main CPU 101 will be described in detail later using a flow chart.

The main RAM 103 also has storage areas for managing various information. For example, there are a set value storage area for storing set value information, a specific area passing flag storage area for storing the passing status of a specific area, a special pattern status flag storage area for storing the status of a special pattern, a game status storage area for storing the game status, a jackpot 1 status storage area for storing the status in a jackpot 1 game, a small win status storage area for storing the status in a small win game, a jackpot 2 status storage area for storing the status in a jackpot 2 game, a normal pattern status flag storage area for storing the status of a normal pattern, and a normal pattern win status storage area for storing the status in a normal pattern win game.

The main RAM 103 also has counters for managing various information (time and number of times). For example, there are a time management counter for managing various times, a time-saving number counter for managing the number of time-saving times, and a round number counter for managing the number of rounds in jackpot 1 play and jackpot 2 play.

(Regarding the frame opening detection SW3a)
The frame open detection SW3a is provided on the middle frame 3, and is capable of detecting an "open" state when the glass frame 4 is open, when the glass frame 4 and the middle frame 3 are open, when the middle frame 3 is open, etc., and detecting a "closed" state when the glass frame 4 and the middle frame 3 are closed. In other words, the frame open detection SW3a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and when in the above-mentioned "closed" state, information indicating the closed state is input to the main control board 100. On the other hand, when in the above-mentioned "open" state, the above-mentioned information indicating the closed state is not input to the main control board 100, and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) can detect the above-mentioned "open" state by not being input.

(Regarding the gate detection SW 20a)
The gate detection SW 20a is provided inside the passage opening of the gate member 20 of the game board 6, and is a SW for detecting that the game ball has passed through the gate member 20. That is, the gate detection SW 20a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and when the passage of the game ball is detected, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) that inputs the detected information controls to immediately execute the normal pattern change game when the normal pattern change game is not being executed in the normal pattern reserve indicator 27f and the number of reserved normal pattern change games is "0", controls to reserve the execution of the normal pattern change game when the number of reserved normal pattern change games is "1" to "3", and controls not to reserve the execution of the normal pattern change game when the number of reserved normal pattern change games is "4".

(Regarding the first start hole detection SW 21a)
The first start hole detection SW 21a is provided inside the winning hole of the first start hole 21 of the game board 6, and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the first start hole 21. In other words, the first start hole detection SW 21a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and when a game ball has entered, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) that has input the detected information performs processing to have the payout control board 300 pay out a "3" game ball as a prize ball for the game ball having entered the first start hole 21.

In addition, when an input is made from the first start hole detection SW21a, if the pattern change game is not being executed on either the first special pattern display 27a or the second special pattern display 27b, and the number of reserved symbols on the first special pattern reserved display 27c and the second special pattern reserved display 27d is "0", the main control board 100 immediately controls to execute the pattern change game on the first special pattern display 27a, controls to suspend the execution of the pattern change game if the number of reserved symbol change games on the first special pattern reserved display 27c is "1" to "3", and controls not to suspend the execution of the pattern change game if the number of reserved symbol change games on the first special pattern reserved display 27c is "4".

In addition, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) transmits a first start hole winning command to the performance control board 200 indicating that the number of reserved symbol change games in the first special symbol reserve display 27c has been updated (increased), except when the number of reserved symbol change games in the first special symbol reserve display 27c is "4". This allows the performance control board 200 to recognize the number of reserved symbol change games in the first special symbol reserve display 27c. Note that the first start hole winning command may be transmitted to the performance control board 200 when the number of reserved symbol change games in the first special symbol reserve display 27c is "4".

(Regarding the second start hole detection SW 22a)
The second start hole detection SW 22a is provided inside the winning hole of the second start hole 22, and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the second start hole 22. In other words, the second start hole detection SW 22a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and when a game ball has entered, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) that has input the detected information performs processing to have the payout control board 300 pay out "2" game balls as prize balls for the game ball having entered the second start hole 22.

In addition, when an input is made from the second start hole detection SW22a, if the pattern change game is not being executed on either the first special pattern display 27a or the second special pattern display 27b and the number of reserved symbols on the second special pattern reserved display 27d is "0", the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) immediately controls the second special pattern display 27b to execute the pattern change game, if the number of reserved symbol change games on the second special pattern reserved display 27d is "1" to "3", the main control board 100 controls the pattern change game to be suspended, and if the number of reserved symbol change games on the second special pattern reserved display 27d is "4", the main control board 100 controls the pattern change game not to be suspended.

In addition, the main control board 100 transmits a second start hole winning command to the performance control board 200 indicating that the number of reserved symbol change games in the second special symbol reserve display 27d has been updated (increased), except when the number of reserved symbol change games in the second special symbol reserve display 27d is "4". This allows the performance control board 200 to recognize the number of reserved symbol change games in the second special symbol reserve display 27d. Note that the second start hole winning command may be transmitted to the performance control board 200 when the number of reserved symbol change games in the second special symbol reserve display 27d is "4".

(Regarding the second starting port opening/closing solenoid 22b)
The second starting port opening/closing solenoid 22b is provided behind the second starting port 22, and is a solenoid for opening and closing the protruding member provided in the above-mentioned second starting port 22. In other words, the second starting port opening/closing solenoid 22b and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and when the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) determines that a normal pattern is a hit in the normal pattern hit determination process, it drives and controls the second starting port opening/closing solenoid 22b to open and close in the opening/closing mode shown in "Opening/closing mode of the second starting port" in FIG.

(Regarding the normal winning port detection SW23a)
The normal winning hole detection SW 23a is provided inside the winning hole of the normal winning hole 23 of the game board 6, and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the normal winning hole 23. In other words, the normal winning hole detection SW 23a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and when a game ball has entered, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) that has input the detected information performs processing to have the payout control board 300 pay out the "8" game ball as a prize ball for the game ball having entered the normal winning hole 23.

(Regarding the first big prize opening detection switch 24a)
The first large prize opening detection SW 24a is provided inside the winning opening of the first large prize opening 24, and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the first large prize opening 24. In other words, the first large prize opening detection SW 24a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and when the game ball's entry is detected, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) that inputs the detected information performs processing to make the payout control board 300 pay out the game ball "12" as a prize ball due to the game ball entering the first large prize opening 24. In addition, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) transmits a first large prize opening entry command indicating that a game ball has entered the first large prize opening 24 to the performance control board 200. This allows the performance control board 200 to recognize the status of the game ball entering the first large prize opening 24.

(Regarding the first prize opening opening solenoid 24b)
The first large prize opening opening solenoid 24b is provided behind the first large prize opening 24, and is a solenoid for opening and closing the opening and closing door provided in the above-mentioned first large prize opening 24. In other words, the first large prize opening opening opening solenoid 24b and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) drives and controls the first large prize opening opening opening solenoid 24b to open and close the opening and closing door for the number of awarded rounds in FIG. 6 in the jackpot 1 game and the jackpot 2 game.

(Regarding the second large winning hole detection SW 32a)
The second large winning opening detection SW 32a is provided inside the winning opening of the second large winning opening 32, and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the second large winning opening 32. In other words, the second large winning opening detection SW 32a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and when the game ball's entry is detected, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) that inputs the detected information performs processing to make the payout control board 300 pay out the game ball "12" as a prize ball due to the game ball entering the second large winning opening 32. In addition, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) transmits a second large winning opening entry command indicating that a game ball has entered the second large winning opening 32 to the performance control board 200. This allows the performance control board 200 to recognize the status of the game ball entering the second large winning hole 32.

(Regarding the second large prize opening opening solenoid 32b)
The second large prize opening opening solenoid 32b is provided behind the second large prize opening 32, and is a solenoid for opening and closing the opening and closing door provided in the above-mentioned second large prize opening 32. In other words, the second large prize opening opening solenoid 32b and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) drives and controls the second large prize opening opening solenoid 32b when a small win is determined in the special symbol winning determination process.

(Regarding the specific area detection SW 32c)
The specific area detection SW 32c is provided in a specific area inside the winning port of the second large winning port 32, and is a SW for detecting that the game ball has entered the specific area of the second large winning port 32. In other words, the specific area detection SW 32c and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and when the game ball's entry is detected, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) that inputs the detected information performs processing to end the small win game and transition to the big win 2 game. In addition, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) transmits a specific area passing command indicating that the game ball has entered the specific area of the second large winning port 32 to the performance control board 200. As a result, the performance control board 200 can also recognize the passing status of the game ball to the specific area of the second large winning port 32.

(Regarding the specific area opening/closing solenoid 32d)
The specific area opening and closing solenoid 32d is provided behind the specific area, and is a solenoid for opening and closing the cover member provided in the specific area. In other words, the specific area opening and closing solenoid 32d and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) drives and controls the specific area opening and closing solenoid 32d to open and close the cover member when a small win is determined in the special symbol winning determination process. The opening time and closing time of the cover member can be set to any time.

(Regarding the outlet detection switch 25a)
The out-port detection SW 25a is provided inside the entrance of the out-port 25, and is a switch for detecting that a game ball has entered the out-port 25. In other words, the out-port detection SW 25a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and when an entry of a game ball is detected, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. This allows the main control board 100 to grasp the number of outs.

(Regarding the first special symbol display 27a)
The first special symbol display 27a is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is a display controlled by the main control board 100 to execute a symbol change game based on the entry of a game ball into the first starting hole 21. That is, the first special symbol display 27a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) controls the display of the symbol change game on the first special symbol display 27a when the execution condition of the symbol change game on the first special symbol display 27a is satisfied. Note that the execution condition of the symbol change game on the first special symbol display 27a is satisfied when a negative judgment is made in the processing of step S105-2-4 in the "special symbol change start processing" (see FIG. 21) described later.

(Regarding the second special symbol display 27b)
The second special symbol display 27b is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is a display controlled by the main control board 100 to execute a symbol change game based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 22. That is, the second special symbol display 27b and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) controls the display of the symbol change game on the second special symbol display 27b when the execution condition of the symbol change game on the second special symbol display 27b is satisfied. Note that the execution condition of the symbol change game on the second special symbol display 27b is satisfied when a negative judgment is made in the processing of step S105-2-1 in the "special symbol change start processing" (see FIG. 21).

(Regarding the first special symbol reserved indicator 27c)
The first special symbol reserved indicator 27c is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is a display controlled by the main control board 100 to display the number of reserved symbols in the symbol change game based on the game ball entering the first starting hole 21. That is, the first special symbol reserved indicator 27c and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and when the main control board 100 inputs information that a game ball has been detected by the first starting hole detection SW 21a, if the upper limit of reserved symbols ("4") has not been reached, the display control of the first special symbol reserved indicator 27c (from off to on, or from on to blinking) is performed. On the other hand, when the symbol change game based on the game ball entering the first starting hole 21 that is currently changing ends, the display control of the first special symbol reserved indicator 27c is performed (from blinking to on, or from on to off).

(Regarding the second special symbol reserved indicator 27d)
The second special symbol reserved indicator 27d is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is a display controlled by the main control board 100 to display the number of reserved symbols in the symbol change game based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 22. That is, the second special symbol reserved indicator 27d and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and when the main control board 100 inputs information that a game ball has been detected from the second starting hole detection SW 22a, if the upper limit of reserved symbols ("4") has not been reached, the display control of the second special symbol reserved indicator 27d (from off to on, or from on to blinking) is performed. On the other hand, when the symbol change game based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 22 that is currently changing ends, the display control of the second special symbol reserved indicator 27d is performed (from blinking to on, or from on to off).

(Regarding the normal symbol display 27e)
The normal symbol display 27e is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is a display for executing a normal symbol variation game whose display is controlled by the main control board 100. In other words, the normal symbol display 27e and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) controls the display of the normal symbol variation game on the normal symbol display 27e when the execution condition of the normal symbol variation game on the normal symbol display 27e is satisfied.

(Regarding the normal symbol reserved indicator 27f)
The normal symbol reserved indicator 27f is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is a display controlled by the main control board 100 to display the number of reserved normal symbol variation games based on the passage of game balls through the gate member 20. In other words, the normal symbol reserved indicator 27f and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and when the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) inputs information that game balls have been detected from the gate detection SW 20a, it controls the display of the normal symbol reserved indicator 27f (from off to on, or from on to blinking) if the upper limit value of the reserved number ("4") has not been reached. On the other hand, when the currently varying normal symbol variation game ends, it controls the display of the normal symbol reserved indicator 27f (from blinking to on, or from on to off).

(Regarding the round indicator 27g)
The round indicator 27g is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is controlled by the main control board 100 to display the number of times the first large winning hole 24 is opened in the above-mentioned big win 1 game and the number of times the first large winning hole 24 is opened in the big win 2 game (including the small win game). That is, the round indicator 27g and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and, for example, when the symbol change game determined as a big win in the special symbol hit determination process ends and the first special symbol display 27a displays a special symbol (for example, "7") indicating a big win, the LED indicator of the round number corresponding to the determined big win 1 game is controlled to light up. Then, when the big win 1 game or the big win 2 game is being executed, the round indicator 27g is controlled to light up continuously, and when the big win 1 game or the big win 2 game ends, the round indicator 27g is controlled to light off.

(Regarding the performance control board 200)
As shown in Fig. 4, the performance control board 200 is provided with a performance control section 200a, which has a sub-CPU 201 that performs performance control processing, a sub-ROM 202 that stores a control program required for the performance control processing, and a sub-RAM 203 that can read and write data required for the performance control processing. Also provided is an image/sound control section 200b that is connected to the performance control section 200a via a harness or the like so as to enable two-way communication, and the image/sound control section 200b has an image/sound CPU 204 that performs image/sound control processing, a sound ROM 205 that stores sound data, a CG ROM 206 that stores image data, and a VRAM 207 equipped with a frame buffer that stores image generation data, etc. In addition, there is provided a light emission drive control unit 200c which is connected to the performance control unit 200a via a harness or the like so as to enable two-way communication. The light emission drive control unit 200c has a light emission drive CPU 208 which performs light emission control processing and drive control processing, a light emission drive ROM 209 which stores the control programs necessary for the light emission control processing and drive control processing, and a light emission drive RAM 210 which can read and write the data necessary for the light emission control processing and drive control processing.

The performance control unit 200a is also connected so that operation information from the performance button detection SW14a, the performance lever detection SW15a, and the cross key detection SW16a can be input.

(Regarding the performance button detection SW 14a)
The effect button detection SW 14a is provided on the effect button 14, and is a SW for detecting that the effect button 14 is pressed by the player when the effect button 14 is in the operation valid period. In other words, the effect button detection SW 14a and the effect control board 200 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and information indicating that the effect button 14 is pressed is input to the effect control board 200. Then, the effect control board 200 that has input the information indicating that the effect button 14 is pressed controls the effect corresponding to the pressing of the effect button 14 via the image display device 26 and the speaker 10. Here, for example, in a pattern change game, the effect button 14 is set to an operation valid period for a predetermined time, and the effect button detection SW 14a detects only pressing when the operation valid period is set.

(Regarding the effect lever detection SW15a)
The effect lever detection SW15a is provided on the effect lever 15, and is a SW for detecting that the effect lever 15 is operated by the player when the effect lever 15 is in the operation effective period. That is, the effect lever detection SW15a and the effect control board 200 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and information indicating that the effect lever 15 is operated is input to the effect control board 200. Then, the effect control board 200 that inputs the information indicating that the effect lever 15 is operated controls the effect according to the operation of the effect lever 15 via the image display device 26 and the speaker 10. Here, for example, in a symbol variation game, the effect lever 15 is set to an operation effective period for a predetermined time, and the effect lever detection SW15a detects only the operation when the operation effective period is set.

(About the cross key detection SW 16a)
The cross key detection SW 16a is provided on the cross key button 16, and is a switch for detecting that the player has pressed the cross key button 16. In other words, the cross key detection SW 16a and the performance control board 200 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and information indicating that the cross key button 16 has been operated is input to the performance control board 200.

As described above, by operating the cross key button 16, the amount of light emitted from the light-emitting device 9 and the amount of light emitted from the image display device 26 can be adjusted. Specifically, by pressing the up button on the cross key button 16, the amount of light can be increased (in stages), by pressing the down button on the cross key button 16, the amount of light can be decreased (in stages), by pressing the right button on the cross key button 16, the volume can be increased (in stages), and by pressing the left button on the cross key button 16, the volume can be decreased (in stages).

The light intensity may be set to three levels, "strong," "medium," and "weak," or may be further subdivided into five levels. The volume may be set to three levels, "high," "medium," and "low," or may be further subdivided into five levels. A level gauge image showing the degree of light intensity or volume adjustment, or an adjustment sound may be emitted.

The light intensity and sound volume adjustments can be performed when the symbol change game is not being played, but may also be performed when the symbol change game is being played. In this case, it is preferable to perform the adjustments without emitting the level gauge image or adjustment sound described above, or by displaying the level gauge image in a small size and outputting the adjustment sound at a low volume. This prevents the effect images and sound corresponding to the symbol change game from being obstructed by the level gauge image or adjustment sound.

In addition, an image display device 26 is connected to the image/sound control unit 200b, and image information generated by the image/sound control unit 200b can be displayed. In addition, a speaker 10 is connected to the image/sound control unit 200b, and sound information generated by the image/sound control unit 200b can be output.

(Regarding the speaker 10)
1, the speaker 10 is capable of outputting voice and sound effects. For example, if information indicating the closed state is not input from the frame open detection SW 3a described above, the speaker 10 outputs a sound notifying the user that the inner frame 3 is in the open state. In other words, the speaker 10 and the image and sound control unit 200b are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and the above-mentioned sounds are output from the speaker 10 under the control of the image and sound control unit 200b.

The light-emitting device 9 and the board lighting device 29 are connected to the light-emitting drive control unit 200c, and light emission can be controlled by the light-emitting drive control unit 200c. The light-emitting drive control unit 200c is also connected to the board drive device 30, and the movable body 28 can be driven and controlled via the board drive device 30.

(Regarding the movable body 28)
The movable body 28 is provided on the game board 6 and is capable of performing actions such as "dropping,""swinging," and "rotating." By performing these actions, the possibility of a big win being awarded is suggested.

In addition to these, although not shown in the figure, it also includes an interrupt controller circuit that issues an interrupt signal to the sub-CPU 201, a hardware random number generation circuit that generates random numbers within a certain range, etc.

(Regarding the dispensing control board 300)
4, the payout control board 300 is provided with a payout CPU 301 that performs payout control processing, a payout ROM 302 that stores a control program required for the payout control processing, and a payout RAM 303 that can read and write data required for the payout control processing. A payout device 304 is connected to the payout control board 300 via a harness or the like, and game balls are paid out to the upper tray 5a by controlling the payout device 304.

Specifically, when the main control board 100 receives information that a game ball has been detected from the first start hole detection SW 21a (described later), a payout command signal is sent from the main control board 100 to the payout control board 300 to pay out a "3" prize ball, and the payout control board 300, upon receiving this, controls the payout device 304 to pay out the "3" prize ball into the upper tray 5a. Then, when the payout of the "3" prize ball is completed, a payout completion signal is sent from the payout control board 300 to the main control board 100, completing the payout of the game balls in response to the input of information that a game ball has been detected from the first start hole detection SW 21a.

The payout control board 300 is also connected to the launch handle 8 via a harness or the like, and when the player touches the above-mentioned handle touch sensor provided on the launch handle 8, information that the launch handle 8 is being held is input, and the amount of rotation of the launch handle 8 is input based on the amount of launch volume (not shown) provided on the launch handle 8.

The payout control board 300 is also connected to a launching device 305 via a harness or the like, and by controlling the launching device 305, game balls are launched into the game area 7. Specifically, when the payout control board 300 receives information from the player that the launching handle 8 is being held by the player and inputs the amount of rotation of the launching handle 8, it controls the launching device 305 with a launch strength according to the amount of rotation of the launching handle 8 to launch the game balls.

Although not shown in FIG. 4, the payout control board 300 is connected so as to receive an input signal from the ball lending button 12 shown in FIG. 1 via a ball lending unit or the like, and when the ball lending button 12 is operated by a player, the payout control board 300 controls the payout device 304 to pay out a number of game balls (e.g., 125 balls) corresponding to one operation of the ball lending button 12 into the upper tray 5a.

(Regarding the power supply board 400)
As shown in Fig. 4, the main control board 100, the performance control board 200, and the payout control board 300 are connected to the power supply board 400 via harnesses, etc., and as described above, the power supply board 400 receives external power via a power plug (not shown) and supplies the supplied external power to the main control board 100, the performance control board 200, and the payout control board 300. Although not shown, the power supply board 400 is provided with a conversion circuit that converts external power (AC 100 volts) to DC 24 volts.

(About the special symbol winning judgment table)
Next, the special symbol winning determination table will be described with reference to FIG.

The special symbol hit determination table is stored in the main ROM 102, and includes (1) to be used when the game ball enters the first starting hole 21, and (2) to be used when the game ball enters the second starting hole 22. In this embodiment, the setting value can be set in "6" stages, and although not shown, special symbol hit determination tables (1) and (2) corresponding to each of the "6" setting values are stored. The setting value is not limited to "6" stages, and can be any value. For example, it may be "4" stages or "2" stages. It is also not necessary to have a setting value.

In the special symbol hit determination table (first starting hole 21) in (1), when the game state is the normal game state and when the game state is the time-saving game state, the probability of a big hit being determined in the special symbol hit determination process is "1/319". Also, when the game state is the normal game state and when the game state is the time-saving game state, the probability of a small hit being determined in the special symbol hit determination process is "-" (no small hit).

Note that not winning a small win may mean not performing the small win determination itself. For example, in the special symbol win determination process described below, the processes of steps S105-2-9-4 to S105-2-9-6 may be not performed. Also, the random number value for small win may be not included in the random number value for win determination to be acquired (see FIG. 17) so that a small win is not won. For example, the range of the random number value for win determination to be acquired may be set to "0 to 637", and the random number value for small win may be set to "638" so that a small win is not won. On the other hand, there is no problem with winning a small win.

In the special symbol hit determination table (second starting hole 22) in (2), when the game state is the normal game state and when the game state is the time-saving game state, the probability that the special symbol hit determination process will determine a big hit is "1/319". Also, when the game state is the time-saving game state, the probability that the special symbol hit determination process will determine a small hit is "1/7.9".

Although not shown in the figure, when the setting value is "6", the probability of a big win being determined in the special pattern hit determination process in both (1) and (2) is, for example, "1/280", making it easier to win a big win than the special pattern hit determination table shown in Figure 5. In other words, the probability of a big win being determined varies depending on the setting value. On the other hand, when the setting value is "6", the probability of a small win being determined in the special pattern hit determination process in (2) is, for example, "1/7.9", which is the same probability as the special pattern hit determination table shown in Figure 5. In other words, there is no difference in the probability of a small win being determined depending on the setting value.

(About the big win special symbol determination table, small win special symbol determination table, and loss special symbol determination table)
Next, each special symbol determination table will be described with reference to FIG.
(A) the big win special symbol determination table, (B) the small win special symbol determination table, and (C) the loss special symbol determination table in FIG. 6 are stored in the main ROM 102.

When the main CPU 101 determines a jackpot in the special symbol hit determination process based on the entry of the game ball into the first starting hole 21, (A) it uses a jackpot special symbol determination table to determine "special symbol A" with a 50% chance, and "special symbol B" with a 50% chance. "Special symbol A" is a special symbol that is determined to control the normal game state when "6" rounds of jackpot play are awarded and the end of the jackpot play. On the other hand, "special symbol B" is a special symbol that is determined to control the time-saving game state when "6" rounds of jackpot play are awarded and the end of the jackpot play.

In addition, when the main CPU 101 determines a jackpot in the special symbol hit determination process based on the entry of the game ball into the second starting hole 22, (A) it uses a jackpot special symbol determination table to determine "special symbol C" with 100% accuracy. "Special symbol C" is a special symbol that is determined to provide one jackpot play of "10" rounds, and to control the time-saving play state when one jackpot play ends.

In this embodiment, the game has a normal game state and a time-saving game state. The normal game state is a game state in which the player is not given the opportunity to put the game ball into the second starting hole 22 (a game state in which the player hits from the left), whereas the time-saving game state is a game state in which the player is given the opportunity to put the game ball into the second starting hole 22 (a game state in which the player hits from the right). When the game ball is put into the second starting hole 22, the player is given the opportunity to win a small prize and may be awarded two big prizes. Therefore, the time-saving game state is a more advantageous game state for the player than the normal game state. In other words, the "special pattern B" and "special pattern C" are more advantageous for the player than the "special pattern A".

In the normal game state, since there is no opportunity to insert a game ball into the second starting hole 22, it can be said that there is no support for opening the second starting hole 22. On the other hand, in the time-saving game state, since there is an opportunity to insert a game ball into the second starting hole 22, it can be said that there is support for opening the second starting hole 22.

The game state after a win can be set arbitrarily for both the first start hole 21 and the second start hole 22. For example, the game state after a win for both the first start hole 21 and the second start hole 22 may be a time-saving game state, or a special symbol may be provided for the second start hole 22, which provides one jackpot play of "10" rounds and controls the normal game state when the one jackpot play ends.

In addition, in this embodiment, the configuration includes a normal game state and a time-saving game state, but it may also include a high probability game state. A high probability game state is a game state in which the probability of a jackpot is higher than in the normal game state. For example, if the probability of a jackpot in the normal game state is "1/319," the probability of a jackpot in the high probability game state will be as high as "1/32."

Although not specifically shown, there is no difference in the setting value for the selection ratio of the special symbol. For example, whether the setting value is "1" or "6," the special symbol is determined using (A) the jackpot special symbol determination table.

In addition, when the main CPU 101 determines that a small win has occurred in the special pattern hit determination process based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 22, (B) it uses the small win special pattern determination table to determine "special pattern D" with a "25%" chance, "special pattern E" with a "25%" chance, "special pattern F" with a "25%" chance, and "special pattern G" with a "25%" chance.

The "special symbol D" is a special symbol that is determined to provide "6" rounds of small win play and big win 2 play (including "1" round of small win play and "5" rounds of big win 2 play), and to control the normal play state when the big win 2 play ends. Note that if the game ball does not pass through a specific area during the small win play and the small win play ends without transitioning to the big win 2 play, the play state after the win becomes the normal play state. Therefore, the "special symbol D" is a special symbol that ends the time-saving play state, and a small win with the "special symbol D" constitutes the end condition of the time-saving play state (the end condition of the opening support state of the second starting hole 22).

"Special pattern E" is a special pattern that is determined to award "6" rounds of small win play and big win 2 play (breaking down into "1" round of small win play and "5" rounds of big win 2 play), and to control the time-saving play state when big win 2 play ends. Note that if the game ball does not pass through a specific area during the small win play and the small win play ends without transitioning to big win 2 play, the play state after the win will be the normal play state.

The "special symbol F" is a special symbol that is determined to provide "10" rounds of small win play and big win 2 play (including "1" round of small win play and "9" round of big win 2 play), and to control the normal play state when the big win 2 play ends. Note that if the game ball does not pass through a specific area during the small win play and the small win play ends without transitioning to the big win 2 play, the play state after the win becomes the normal play state. Therefore, the "special symbol F" is a special symbol that ends the time-saving play state, and a small win with the "special symbol F" constitutes the end condition of the time-saving play state (the end condition of the opening support state of the second starting hole 22).

The "Special Pattern G" is a special pattern that is determined to award "10" rounds of small win play and big win 2 play (which consists of "1" round of small win play and "9" rounds of big win 2 play), and to control the time-saving play state when the big win 2 play ends. Note that if the game ball does not pass through a specific area during the small win play and the small win play ends without transitioning to the big win 2 play, the play state after the win will be the normal play state.

In addition, for the "special pattern D", after "6" rounds of small win play and two big win play (breaking down to "1" round of small win play and "5" rounds of two big win play), the normal play state is then entered; however, it is also possible to enter only the small win play in an opening and closing mode in which the game ball cannot pass through a specific area, and then enter the normal play state after the small win play ends.
Similarly, for the "special pattern F," a small win game of "10" rounds and two big win games (breaking down to a small win game of "1" round and two big win games of "9" rounds) are executed, and then the normal game state is resumed; however, it is also possible to execute only the small win game in an opening and closing mode in which the game ball cannot pass through a specific area, and then resume the normal game state after the small win game ends.
With this configuration, the game balls that a player can obtain are more likely to vary, and the advantage or disadvantage can be more clearly defined.

Although not specifically shown, there is no difference in the setting value for the selection ratio of the special symbol. For example, whether the setting value is "1" or "6," the special symbol is determined using (B) the small win special symbol determination table.

In addition, if the main CPU 101 determines that the special symbol hit determination process based on the game ball entering the first starting hole 21 is a miss, it uses (C) the miss special symbol determination table to determine the "special symbol H" with 100% certainty.

In addition, if the main CPU 101 determines that the special symbol hit determination process based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 22 is a miss, it uses (C) the miss special symbol determination table to determine "special symbol I" with 100% certainty.

(Details about the special big win patterns and the special small win patterns)
Next, based on FIG. 7, the details of the big win special symbol and the small win special symbol will be explained.

(A) In the details of the special jackpot patterns, for "special pattern A" (Type 1 jackpot 1) and "special pattern B" (Type 1 jackpot 2), the door of the first large prize winning opening 24 opens for 29.5S per round, and closes when it detects the entry of a "10" game ball, or when 29.5S has passed before it detects the entry of a "10" game ball. Then, when the closing interval time has elapsed, it moves on to the next round, and this is done for "6" rounds. After the "6" rounds are over, it moves on to the jackpot ending (for example, 10S). In addition, for "Special Pattern C" (Type 1 Big Win 3), the door of the first big winning opening 24 opens for 29.5S per round, and closes when it detects the entry of a "10" game ball, or when 29.5S has passed before it detects the entry of a "10" game ball. Then, when the closing interval time has elapsed, it moves on to the next round, and this is done for "10" rounds. After the "10" rounds are over, it moves on to the big winning ending (for example, 10S).

(B) In the details of the small win special symbols, for "special symbol D" (type 2 big win 1) and "special symbol E" (type 2 big win 2), the door of the second big win opening 32 opens for 1.8 seconds in the first round, and closes when the entry of a "10" game ball is detected or 1.8 seconds have passed before the entry of a "10" game ball is detected. Then, when the transition interval time of 3 seconds has passed from the small win game to the big win 2 game, the game moves to the second round, and from the second round, the door of the first big win opening 24 opens for 29.5 seconds per round, and closes when the entry of a "10" game ball is detected or 29.5 seconds have passed before the entry of a "10" game ball is detected. Once the closure interval has elapsed, the game moves on to the next round, and this is repeated for five rounds.

In addition, for the "special pattern F" (type 2 jackpot 3) and "special pattern G" (type 2 jackpot 4) in the small win special pattern details, the door of the second large prize opening 32 opens for 1.8 seconds in the first round, and closes when the entry of a "10" game ball is detected or 1.8 seconds have passed before the entry of a "10" game ball is detected. Then, when the transition interval time of 3 seconds has passed from the small win game to the jackpot 2 game, the game moves to the second round, and from the second round, the door of the first large prize opening 24 opens for 29.5 seconds per round, and closes when the entry of a "10" game ball is detected or 29.5 seconds have passed before the entry of a "10" game ball is detected. Once the closure interval has elapsed, the game moves on to the next round, and this is repeated for nine rounds.

Although not specifically shown, there are no set values for the round opening and closing modes. Also, the round details (opening and closing modes) shown in FIG. 7 are merely examples and can be changed as appropriate.

(Regarding the Game Status Control Table)
Next, the game state control table will be described with reference to FIG.

The game state control table is stored in the main ROM 102, and is a table that defines the upper limit number of times the time-saving game state can be played for each special symbol. For example, when a jackpot 1 game ends with either "special symbol B" or "special symbol C", or when a jackpot 2 game ends with either "special symbol E" or "special symbol G", if the symbol change game is played "100" times at the first start hole 21 and the second start hole 22 in the subsequent time-saving game state, the time-saving game state ends and the game transitions to the normal game state. Note that playing the symbol change game "100" times at the first start hole 21 and the second start hole 22 constitutes the end condition of the time-saving game state (the end condition of the opening support state of the second start hole 22).

In this embodiment, the condition for ending the time-saving game state (the condition for ending the opening support state of the second starting hole 22) is that the pattern change game is played "100" times at the first starting hole 21 and the second starting hole 22, but a specified upper limit number of changes may also be set only at the first starting hole 21, or a specified upper limit number of changes may also be set only at the second starting hole 22. For example, when the pattern change game is played "10" times at the first starting hole 21, the time-saving game state may be ended and a transition to the normal game state may be made. Also, when the pattern change game is played "10" times at the second starting hole 22, the time-saving game state may be ended and a transition to the normal game state may be made.

(Regarding the normal symbol hit judgment table and the normal symbol determination table)
Next, the normal symbol related table will be described with reference to FIG.
(1) The normal symbol winning judgment table and (2) the normal symbol determination table in FIG.

In the (1) normal symbol hit determination table, the probability of a normal symbol hit being determined in the normal symbol hit determination process when the game state is in the normal game state is "-" (normal symbol not hitting), and the probability of a normal symbol hit being determined in the normal symbol hit determination process when the game state is in the time-saving game state is "250/251."

Not winning a normal symbol may mean not performing a normal symbol winning judgment at all. For example, in the passing gate detection process in FIG. 16, even if it is detected that a game ball has passed through the gate member 20, the random number value for normal symbol winning judgment may not be extracted, and the normal symbol winning judgment process may not be performed. Also, a normal symbol winning may not be obtained by not including the random number value for normal symbol winning in the obtained random number value for normal symbol winning judgment. For example, the range of the random number value for normal symbol winning judgment to be obtained can be set to "0-250", and the random number value for normal symbol winning can be set to "251" to prevent a normal symbol winning. On the other hand, there is no problem if a normal symbol winning is performed.

Although not specifically shown, there is no difference in the set value for the probability of winning a normal symbol, and whether the set value is "1" or "6," the probability of winning a normal symbol in the time-saving play state is "250/251."

When the main CPU 101 determines that the normal symbol is a hit in the normal symbol hit determination process, (2) it uses the normal symbol determination table to determine "normal symbol A", and determines the opening and closing mode of the second starting hole 22, which is to open the protruding member of the second starting hole 22 for 1.3 S, close it, wait a closing interval time, open the protruding member of the second starting hole 22 again for 1.3 S, close it, wait a closing interval time, open the protruding member of the second starting hole 22 again for 1.3 S, close it, wait a closing interval time, open the protruding member of the second starting hole 22 again for 1.3 S. On the other hand, when the main CPU 101 determines that the normal symbol is a miss in the normal symbol hit determination process, (2) it uses the normal symbol determination table to determine "normal symbol B", and determines that the protruding member of the second starting hole 22 is not to be opened.

In addition, in the normal game state, since normal symbols do not win, the normal symbols and the opening and closing mode of the second starting hole 22 are not determined. Also, although not specifically shown, there is no difference in the setting value for the opening and closing mode of the second starting hole 22, and whether the setting value is "1" or "6", "1.3S opening x 4 times" is determined.

Although no set value is provided for normal symbols, a set value may be provided. For example, the probability of being determined as a win in the "normal symbol hit determination process" may be different for each set value, and a set value of "1" may be easier to win compared to a set value of "6", or vice versa. Also, the opening and closing manner of the second starting port 22 may be different for each set value. For example, a set value of "1" may open and close in a more favorable manner compared to a set value of "6", or vice versa.

(Special symbol variation pattern table, normal symbol variation pattern table)
Next, each variation pattern table will be explained based on FIG.

(A) Special symbol fluctuation pattern table (for normal game state_first start gate), (B) Special symbol fluctuation pattern table (for time-saving game state_second start gate), (C) Special symbol fluctuation pattern table (for normal game state_second start gate), (D) Regular symbol fluctuation pattern table are stored in the main ROM 102. Note that only a portion of the special symbol fluctuation pattern tables are listed, and some tables, such as the table for the first start gate in the time-saving game state, are omitted.

(A) The special symbol fluctuation pattern table (for normal game play state_first starting gate) has "fluctuation pattern 1" to "fluctuation pattern 6" that can be selected when the result of the special symbol hit determination process is a miss, and "fluctuation pattern 7" to "fluctuation pattern 11" that can be selected when the result of the special symbol hit determination process is a jackpot.

In "variation pattern 1," "shortened variation (miss)" is executed, and the variation time is "3S." In "variation pattern 2," "normal variation (miss)" is executed, and the variation time is "6S." In "variation pattern 3," "normal reach (miss)" is executed, and the variation time is "12S." In "variation pattern 4," "super reach (miss)" is executed, and the variation time is "30S." In "variation pattern 5," "pseudo consecutive 2 normal reach (miss)" is executed, and the variation time is "50S." In "variation pattern 6," "pseudo consecutive 3 super reach (miss)" is executed, and the variation time is "70S."

In addition, "variation pattern 7" is configured with a "super reach (first type jackpot 1 or first type jackpot 2)" and a variation time of "30S". In addition, "variation pattern 8" is configured with a "pseudo consecutive 2 normal reach (first type jackpot 1 or first type jackpot 2)" and a variation time of "50S". In addition, "variation pattern 9" is configured with a "pseudo consecutive 3 super reach (first type jackpot 1 or first type jackpot 2)" and a variation time of "70S". In addition, "variation pattern 10" is configured with a "pseudo consecutive 4 super reach (first type jackpot 1 or first type jackpot 2)" and a variation time of "90S". In addition, "variation pattern 11" is configured with a "full rotation reach (first type jackpot 2)" and a variation time of "120S".

When the main CPU 101 performs a special symbol hit determination process in the normal game state and the result is a miss, it determines one of the fluctuation patterns from "Fluctuation Pattern 1" to "Fluctuation Pattern 6". Specifically, when the game ball enters the first starting hole 21, it obtains a random number for determining the fluctuation pattern, and determines one of the fluctuation patterns by referring to the obtained random number for determining the fluctuation pattern. Although not shown, when the game ball enters the first starting hole 21, it may obtain a reach determination random number, and if the reach determination random number corresponds to a random number for executing a reach, it may determine one of the fluctuation patterns from "Fluctuation Pattern 3" to "Fluctuation Pattern 6", and if the reach determination random number does not correspond to a random number for executing a reach, it may determine one of "Fluctuation Pattern 1" or "Fluctuation Pattern 2".

In addition, when the main CPU 101 performs the special symbol hit determination process in the normal game state, if the result is a jackpot (Type 1 jackpot 1), it will determine one of the fluctuation patterns from "Fluctuation Pattern 7" to "Fluctuation Pattern 10", and if the result is Type 1 jackpot 2, it will determine one of the fluctuation patterns from "Fluctuation Pattern 7" to "Fluctuation Pattern 11".

Once the fluctuation pattern is determined, the "effect content" and "fluctuation time" (number of seconds S) are determined univocally. Here, "shortened fluctuation" and "normal fluctuation" refer to fluctuations that do not result in a reach. Also, a "normal reach" refers to a reach that does result in a reach, but does not include any particular development effect (for example, a momentary stop display for a miss, followed by a fluctuation of the middle decorative pattern image 26b), and is positioned as a reach with a low expectation of a jackpot, as it is configured with a low selection rate for a jackpot and a high selection rate for a miss.

In addition, a "super reach" refers to a reach that develops during the execution of a reach (normal reach) and develops into a live-action image, for example, displayed on the image display device 26. Since the selection rate for a jackpot is higher than that of a "normal reach" and the selection rate for a miss is lower than that of a "normal reach," it is positioned as a reach with a higher expectation of a jackpot than a "normal reach."

"Pseudo consecutive wins", which will be explained in detail later, are effects that make it look as if multiple pattern change games are being played in one pattern change game, and "pseudo consecutive win 4 super reach" is positioned as a reach with a higher expectation of a jackpot than "pseudo consecutive win 3 super reach". Note that "pseudo consecutive win 4 super reach" in "variation pattern 10" is a variation pattern in which only a jackpot (first type jackpot 1 or first type jackpot 2) can be selected, so when "pseudo consecutive wins" are played four times, a jackpot (first type jackpot 1 or first type jackpot 2) is confirmed at that point.

(B) The special symbol fluctuation pattern table (for time-saving game state_second starting port) has "fluctuation pattern 12" to "fluctuation pattern 14" that can be selected when the result of the special symbol hit determination process is a miss, "fluctuation pattern 15" to "fluctuation pattern 17" that can be selected when the result of the special symbol hit determination process is a jackpot (first type jackpot 3), and "fluctuation pattern 18" to "fluctuation pattern 20" that can be selected when the result of the special symbol hit determination process is a small jackpot (second type jackpot 1 to second type jackpot 4).

In "variation pattern 12," "miss variation 1" is executed and is composed of a variation time of "10S." In addition, in "variation pattern 13," "miss variation 2" is executed and is composed of a variation time of "20S." In addition, in "variation pattern 14," "miss variation 3" is executed and is composed of a variation time of "30S."

In addition, "variation pattern 15" involves the execution of "hit variation 1" (first type jackpot 3) and is configured with a variation time of "10S". In addition, "variation pattern 16" involves the execution of "hit variation 2" (first type jackpot 3) and is configured with a variation time of "20S". In addition, "variation pattern 17" involves the execution of "hit variation 3" (first type jackpot 3) and is configured with a variation time of "30S".

In addition, "variation pattern 18" executes "hit variation 4" (type 2 jackpot 1 to type 2 jackpot 4) and is composed of a variation time of "10S". In addition, "variation pattern 19" executes "hit variation 5" (type 2 jackpot 1 to type 2 jackpot 4) and is composed of a variation time of "20S". In addition, "variation pattern 20" executes "hit variation 6" (type 2 jackpot 1 to type 2 jackpot 4) and is composed of a variation time of "30S".

(C) The special symbol fluctuation pattern table (for normal game state_second starting port) has "fluctuation pattern 21" that can be selected when the result of the special symbol hit determination process is a miss, "fluctuation pattern 22" that can be selected when the result of the special symbol hit determination process is a jackpot (first type jackpot 3), and "fluctuation pattern 23" that can be selected when the result of the special symbol hit determination process is a small jackpot (second type jackpot 1 to second type jackpot 4).

In "fluctuation pattern 21," a "miss fluctuation" is executed, and the fluctuation time is "10S." In "fluctuation pattern 22," a "hit fluctuation" (first type jackpot 3) is executed, and the fluctuation time is "10S." In "fluctuation pattern 23," a "hit fluctuation" (second type jackpot 1 to second type jackpot 4) is executed, and the fluctuation time is "10S."

(D) The normal symbol fluctuation pattern table has "normal symbol fluctuation pattern 1" (normal symbol winning fluctuation) and "normal symbol fluctuation pattern 2" (normal symbol losing fluctuation), and both have a fluctuation time of "3S".

(Regarding the judgment information storage area of the main RAM)
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the judgment information storage area (reserved storage area) provided in the main RAM 103. As shown in FIG.

As described above, the main RAM 103 is provided with (A) a reserved memory area corresponding to a special symbol, and (B) a reserved memory area corresponding to a normal symbol. In the first starting hole 21, the "variable memory area", the "first memory area", the "second memory area", the "third memory area", and the "fourth memory area" can store judgment information (random number value) related to the special symbol, respectively. In the second starting hole 22, the "variable memory area", the "first memory area", the "second memory area", the "third memory area", and the "fourth memory area" can store judgment information (random number value) related to the special symbol, respectively. In the gate member 20, the "variable memory area", the "first memory area", the "second memory area", the "third memory area", and the "fourth memory area" can store judgment information (random number value) related to the normal symbol, respectively.

(Regarding control processing performed by the main CPU 101)
The control processing performed by the main CPU 101 will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Regarding the main control board main processing)
11 is a flowchart showing main processing performed in the main control board 100. This processing is started by the main CPU 101 of the main control board 100 when the power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine 1 and voltage is supplied from the power supply board 400 to each control board.

(Step S1)
In step S1, the main CPU 101 judges whether the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a power outage state. If the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a power outage state, the process of step S1 is repeated, and if the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not in a power outage state, the process proceeds to step S2. If the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a power outage state, the process can be executed using a backup power source (not shown).

(Step S2)
In step S2, the main CPU 101 inhibits interrupts. As a result, the main CPU 101 executes only the process in Fig. 12 until interrupts are permitted in S18, which will be described later. Then, once interrupts are prohibited, the process proceeds to step S3.

(Step S3)
In step S3, the main CPU 101 judges whether the RAM clear switch 105 is ON (whether it is pressed down). That is, it judges whether the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is ON (the power supply SW 400a is ON) with the RAM clear switch 105 pressed down. If the RAM clear switch 105 is ON, the process proceeds to step S4, and if the RAM clear switch 105 is not ON, the process proceeds to step S9.

(Step S4)
In step S4, the main CPU 101 judges whether the setting change key is in the setting change position. For example, if it detects that the setting change key is inserted into the setting change keyhole 31 and that the setting change key has been rotated 90 degrees, it judges that the setting change key is in the setting change position, and if it does not detect this, it judges that the setting change key is not in the setting change position. If the result is that the setting change key is in the setting change position, the process proceeds to step S5, and if the setting change key is not in the setting change position, the process proceeds to step S7.

(Step S5)
In step S5, the main CPU 101 performs a set value change process shown in Fig. 13. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 13. Then, when the set value change process ends, the process proceeds to step S6.

(Step S6)
In step S6, the main CPU 101 transmits a power-on command. The power-on command is a command indicating that the power has been turned on, and when the performance control board 200 receives this command, it causes, for example, the image display device 26 to display "Power on" via the image/sound control unit 200b, and causes the speaker 10 to output a sound saying "Power on." Then, after transmitting the power-on command, the process proceeds to step S17.

(Step S7)
In step S7, if the RAM clear switch 105 is ON and the power switch 400a is ON, the main CPU 101 initializes areas 1 and 2 (excluding the setting value storage area) of the main RAM 103. This allows, for example, if the game is in a time-saving game mode when the gaming establishment closes, to resume normal game mode when the gaming establishment opens the next day. After initializing areas 1 and 2 (excluding the setting value storage area) of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S8.

(Step S8)
In step S8, the main CPU 101 transmits a power-on command. After transmitting the power-on command, the process proceeds to step S17.

(Step S9)
In step S9, the main CPU 101 determines whether the setting change key is in the setting change position. If the setting change key is in the setting change position, the process proceeds to step S10. If the setting change key is not in the setting change position, the process proceeds to step S11.

(Step S10)
In step S10, the main CPU 101 performs a setting value confirmation process shown in Fig. 14. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 14. Then, when the setting value confirmation process ends, the process proceeds to step S11.

(Step S11)
In step S11, the main CPU 101 determines whether there is backed-up data. For example, when the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned off, a backup process (not shown) is performed to hold data, store a checksum, and turn on a backup flag. If the backup flag is on, it is determined that there is backed-up data, and if the backup flag is not on, it is determined that there is no backed-up data. If there is backed-up data, the process proceeds to step S12, and if there is no backed-up data, it is determined that this is the first power-on and the process proceeds to step S17.

(Step S12)
In step S12, main CPU 101 calculates a checksum of an area of main RAM 103. Then, after calculating the checksum of the area of main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S13.

(Step S13)
In step S13, the main CPU 101 determines whether the checksum of the area of the main RAM 103 is normal. For example, it determines whether the checksum value stored in a backup process (not shown) matches the checksum value calculated in step S12, and if they match, it determines that the checksum is normal, and if they do not match, it determines that the checksum is abnormal. If the checksum is normal, the process proceeds to step S15, and if the checksum is abnormal, the process proceeds to step S14.

(Step S14)
In step S14, the main CPU 101 performs a game stop process (error setting). Specifically, it transmits an error command to the performance control board 200 to notify an error using the light emitting device 9, the speaker 10, the image display device 26, etc., and performs a process that makes it impossible to release the error unless the setting value change process of Fig. 13 is performed. Then, it remains in that process unless the setting value change process of Fig. 13 is performed.

(Step S15)
In step S15, the main CPU 101 performs a recovery process. That is, the main CPU 101 restores the state before the power outage to normal. Then, when the state before the power outage is restored to normal, the process proceeds to step S16.

(Step S16)
In step S16, the main CPU 101 transmits a power restoration command. The power restoration command is a command indicating that the power has been restored, and when the performance control board 200 receives the command, it causes, for example, the image display device 26 to display "power restoration in progress" via the image/sound control unit 200b, and causes the speaker 10 to output a sound saying "power restoration in progress." Then, after transmitting the power restoration command, the process proceeds to step S17.

(Step S17)
In step S17, the main CPU 101 sets the CTC. That is, it sets the CTC (Counter Timer Circuit) that has a function of generating a pulse output at a constant period and a function of measuring time, and sets the time constant register of the CTC so that the main control board timer interrupt process described below is performed periodically every 4 ms. Then, after setting the CTC, the process proceeds to step S18.

(Step S18)
In step S18, the main CPU 101 permits the interruption. Then, when the interruption is permitted, the main control board timer interruption process (described later) is performed every 4 ms.

(Regarding setting value change processing)
Fig. 13 is a flow chart showing the setting value change processing (subroutine of step S5 of the main control board main processing) performed in the main control board 100. The state in which the processing in Fig. 13 is being performed corresponds to the above-mentioned "setting change state".

(Step S5-1)
In step S5-1, main CPU 101 initializes the areas (excluding the setting value storage area) of main RAM 103. Then, after initializing the areas (excluding the setting value storage area) of main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S5-2.

(Step S5-2)
In step S5-2, the main CPU 101 transmits a setting value changing command. The setting value changing command is a command indicating that a setting value change process is being performed, and when the performance control board 200 receives this command, it causes, for example, the image display device 26 to display "setting changing" via the image/sound control unit 200b, and causes the speaker 10 to output a sound saying "setting changing." Then, when the setting value changing command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S5-3.

(Step S5-3)
In step S5-3, main CPU 101 reads out the current setting value and displays it on display 104. For example, if the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of main RAM 103 is "1", "1" is displayed on display 104. Then, after reading out the current setting value and displaying it on display 104, processing proceeds to step S5-4.

(Step S5-4)
In step S5-4, main CPU 101 determines whether a setting change operation has been performed. Specifically, main CPU 101 determines whether RAM clear switch 105 has been turned ON. If RAM clear switch 105 has been turned ON, processing proceeds to step S5-5. If RAM clear switch 105 has not been turned ON, processing proceeds to step S5-7.

(Step S5-5)
In step S5-5, the main CPU 101 performs a process of changing the set value. For example, when the set value is "1", if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value is changed to "2", when the set value is "2", when the set value is "2", the set value is changed to "3", when the set value is "3", the set value is changed to "4", when the set value is "4", when the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value is changed to "5", when the set value is "5", the set value is changed to "6", and when the set value is "6", the set value is changed to "1". After changing the set value, the process proceeds to step S5-6.

(Step S5-6)
In step S5-6, the main CPU 101 displays the changed set value on the display 104 (for example, the rightmost segment). For example, when the set value "1" is displayed, if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value "2" is displayed; when the set value "2" is displayed, if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value "3" is displayed; when the set value "3" is displayed, if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value "4" is displayed; when the set value "4" is displayed, if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value "5" is displayed; when the set value "5" is displayed, if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value "6" is displayed; when the set value "6" is displayed, if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value "1" is displayed. Then, when the changed set value is displayed on the display 104, the process proceeds to step S5-7.

(Step S5-7)
In step S5-7, the main CPU 101 determines whether a setting value confirmation operation has been performed. Specifically, it determines whether the setting change key is in a position rotated 90 degrees clockwise (horizontal direction) to a position rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise (vertical direction). If a setting value confirmation operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S5-8, and if a setting value confirmation operation has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S5-4.

(Step S5-8)
In step S5-8, the main CPU 101 stores the setting value in a setting value storage area of the main RAM 103. That is, when the desired setting value is displayed on the display 104, the setting value of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is confirmed by rotating the setting change key 90 degrees counterclockwise (vertical direction). Thereby, subsequent games are played based on the stored setting value. Then, once the setting value has been stored in the setting value storage area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S5-9.

(Step S5-9)
In step S5-9, the main CPU 101 turns off the display 104. That is, it turns off the setting value that was displayed on the display 104 in step S5-6. After turning off the display 104, the process proceeds to step S5-10.

(Step S5-10)
In step S5-10, the main CPU 101 transmits a setting value information command. The setting value information command is a command that indicates information on the setting value, and when the performance control board 200 receives this command, it stores the setting value information in the sub-RAM 203, and when executing the setting value suggestion performance described below, it refers to the setting value information stored in the sub-RAM 203. Furthermore, when the performance control board 200 receives this command, it ends the notification such as "settings are being changed" described above. Then, when the setting value information command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S6 of the main control board main process.

(Regarding setting value confirmation processing)
Fig. 14 is a flow chart showing the setting value confirmation process (a subroutine of step S10 of the main control board main process) performed in the main control board 100. The state in which the process of Fig. 14 is being performed corresponds to the above-mentioned "setting confirmation state".

(Step S10-1)
In step S10-1, the main CPU 101 transmits a setting value checking command. The setting value checking command is a command indicating that a setting value checking process is being performed, and when the performance control board 200 receives this command, it causes, for example, the image display device 26 to display "setting checking in progress" via the image/sound control unit 200b, and causes the speaker 10 to output a sound saying "setting checking in progress." Then, when the setting value checking command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S10-2.

(Step S10-2)
In step S10-2, main CPU 101 reads out the current setting value and displays it on display 104. For example, if the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of main RAM 103 is "1", "1" is displayed on display 104. Then, after reading out the current setting value and displaying it on display 104, processing proceeds to step S10-3.

(Step S10-3)
In step S10-3, the main CPU 101 determines whether an end operation has been performed. Specifically, it determines whether the setting change key is in a position rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise (vertical direction) from a position rotated 90 degrees clockwise (horizontal direction). If an end operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S10-4, and if an end operation has not been performed, the process loops until an end operation is performed.

(Step S10-4)
In step S10-4, main CPU 101 turns off display 104. That is, it turns off display of the setting value displayed on display 104 in step S10-2. Then, after turning off display 104, the process proceeds to step S10-5.

(Step S10-5)
In step S10-5, the main CPU 101 transmits a setting value check end command. The setting value check end command is a command indicating that the setting value check process has ended, and when the performance control board 200 receives this command, it terminates the notification such as "Settings are being checked" described above. Then, when the setting value check end command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S11 of the main control board main process.

(Main control board timer interrupt processing)
15 is a flowchart showing main control board timer interrupt processing performed in the main control board 100. This processing is executed by periodically (for example, every 4 ms) interrupting the above-mentioned main control board main processing.

(Step S101)
In step S101, the main CPU 101 saves information stored in a register. After saving the information stored in the register, the process proceeds to step S102.

(Step S102)
In step S102, the main CPU 101 performs a time management process to update a timer used in the game (for example, the opening time of the first large winning port 24, etc.). Then, after updating the timer used in the game, the process proceeds to step S103.

(Step S103)
In step S103, the main CPU 101 updates the initial value random numbers such as the random numbers for determining a win, the random numbers for determining a special symbol, the random numbers for determining a variation pattern, etc. Then, when the various random number update processes are completed, the process proceeds to step S104.

(Step S104)
In step S104, the main CPU 101 detects input from each switch shown in Fig. 4. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 16. Then, when an input from each switch is detected, the process proceeds to step S105.

(Step S105)
In step S105, the main CPU 101 performs a process related to the special symbols. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 20. Then, when the process related to the special symbols is completed, the process proceeds to step S106.

(Step S106)
In step S106, the main CPU 101 performs processing related to the normal symbols. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 28. Then, when the processing related to the normal symbols is completed, the process proceeds to step S107.

(Step S107)
In step S107, the main CPU 101 performs processing related to the payout of game balls. For example, when the entry of a game ball is detected in the input SW detection processing in step S104, a payout command signal is set in a payout command transmission area in order to send a payout command signal to the payout control board 300 to pay out the corresponding prize ball, and a payout completion signal is received from the payout control board 300. Then, when the processing related to the payout of game balls is completed, the process proceeds to step S108.

(Step S108)
In step S108, the main CPU 101 performs a process of transmitting various commands to the performance control board 200. For example, in this process, the main CPU 101 checks whether a command has been set in the command transmission area, and if a command has been set, transmits the set command to the performance control board 200 or the payout control board 300. Then, when the command transmission process is completed, the process proceeds to step S109.

(Step S109)
In step S109, the main CPU 101 performs display control (variable display and fixed display) of special symbols on the first special symbol display 27a in the case of a symbol change game based on a game ball entering the first start hole 21, and performs display control (variable display and fixed display) of special symbols on the second special symbol display 27b in the case of a symbol change game based on a game ball entering the second start hole 22. In addition, based on the game ball entering each start hole and the symbol change game at each start hole being completed, the main CPU 101 also performs display control of the first special symbol reserved display 27c and the second special symbol reserved display 27d. Then, when the display control of the special symbols is completed, the process proceeds to step S110.

(Step S110)
In step S110, the main CPU 101 controls the display of the normal symbol (variable display and fixed display) on the normal symbol display 27e. In addition, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the gate member 20 and the fact that the normal symbol variable game has ended, the main CPU 101 also controls the display of the normal symbol reserved display 27f. Then, when the display control of the normal symbol is ended, the process proceeds to step S111.

(Step S111)
In step S111, the main CPU 101 performs a game performance information management process. Specifically, the main CPU 101 calculates game performance information using the above-mentioned formula of "(number of paid-out game balls in normal game state ÷ number of outs in normal game state) × 100" and performs a process of displaying the calculated game performance information on the display 104. Then, when the game performance information management process ends, the process proceeds to step S112.

(Step S112)
In step S112, the main CPU 101 restores the information saved in step S101 to the register. Then, after restoring the saved information to the register, the main control board timer interrupt process ends.

(Input SW detection process)
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the input SW detection processing performed in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S104 of the main control board timer interrupt processing).

(Step S104-1)
In step S104-1, the main CPU 101 performs a process when the first start hole is detected. This process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 17. Then, when the process when the first start hole is detected is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-2.

(Step S104-2)
In step S104-2, the main CPU 101 performs a process when the second start hole is detected. This process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 18. Then, when the process when the second start hole is detected is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-3.

(Step S104-3)
In step S104-3, when the main CPU 101 receives information that a game ball has been detected from the normal winning hole detection SW 23a, the main CPU 101 performs processing to set a payout command signal in a payout command transmission area in order to have the payout control board 300 pay out a game ball number "8" as a prize ball. Then, when the normal winning hole detection processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S104-4.

(Step S104-4)
In step S104-4, when the main CPU 101 receives information that a game ball has been detected from the first large prize opening detection SW 24a, the main CPU 101 performs processing to set a payout command signal in a payout command transmission area in order to have the payout control board 300 pay out "12" game balls as prize balls. In addition, in order to notify the fact that a game ball has entered the first large prize opening 24 using the image display device 26 or the like, a first large prize opening ball entry detection signal is set in the command transmission area. For example, when more than 10 game balls are detected by the first large prize opening detection SW 24a per round (also called over entry), the notification using the image display device 26 or the like may be notified by a sound from the speaker 10. Then, when the first large prize opening detection processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S104-5.

In step S104-5, the main CPU 101 performs processing when the second large prize opening is detected. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 19. Then, when the processing when the second large prize opening is detected is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-6.

(Step S104-6)
In step S104-6, when the main CPU 101 receives information that the game ball has passed from the gate detection SW 20a, if the number of reserved balls in the normal pattern change game is less than "4", it adds "1" to the number of reserved balls in the normal pattern change game, obtains a random number to be used in the normal pattern winning determination process, and stores it in the reserved memory area for the normal pattern change game provided in the main RAM 103. Also, in order to perform an effect corresponding to the game ball having passed through the gate member 20, it performs a process to set a gate passing command in the command transmission area. Then, when the passing gate detection process is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-7.

(Step S104-7)
In step S104-7, the main CPU 101 performs processing when it receives information that a game ball has entered the game area from the OUT detection SW 25a. For example, in order to transmit an OUT passage command to the performance control board 200, the OUT passage command is set in a command transmission area. Then, when the OUT detection processing is completed, the process proceeds to step S105 of the main control board timer interrupt processing.

(Processing when the first starting port is detected)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the processing performed in the main control board 100 when the first starting hole is detected (a subroutine of step S104-1 of the input SW detection processing).

(Step S104-1-1)
In step S104-1-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the first start hole detection SW 21a has input information indicating that a game ball has entered the game hole. If the first start hole detection SW 21a has input information indicating that a game ball has entered the game hole, the process proceeds to step S104-1-2. If the first start hole detection SW 21a has not input information indicating that a game ball has entered the game hole, the process proceeds to step S104-2 of the input SW detection process.

(Step S104-1-2)
In step S104-1-2, the main CPU 101 sets a prize ball command in the payout command transmission area to cause the payout control board 300 to pay out three game balls as prize balls for the game ball entering the first starting hole 21. Then, after setting the prize ball command, the process proceeds to step S104-1-3.

(Step S104-1-3)
In step S104-1-3, the main CPU 101 judges whether the above-mentioned "fourth memory area" has been stored. In other words, it judges whether the number of reserved symbol variation games in the first starting hole 21 is "4". If the "fourth memory area" has been stored, the process proceeds to step S104-2 of the input SW detection process, and if the "fourth memory area" has not been stored, the process proceeds to step S104-1-4.

(Step S104-1-4)
In step S104-1-4, the main CPU 101 acquires a random number value for winning judgment. The random number value acquired in this process is used in the winning judgment process (step S104-1-8) and the special symbol variation start process (see FIG. 21) described later. After acquiring the random number value for winning judgment, the process proceeds to step S104-1-5.

The random number value for hit determination may be obtained prior to step S104-1-3. If it is determined in step S104-1-3 that the "fourth storage area" has been filled, the obtained random number value may be discarded.

(Step S104-1-5)
In step S104-1-5, the main CPU 101 acquires a random number value for determining a special symbol. The random number value acquired in this process is used in the winning determination process (step S104-1-8) and the special symbol variation start process (see FIG. 21), which will be described later. After acquiring the random number value for determining a special symbol, the process proceeds to step S104-1-6.

The random number value for determining the special symbol may be obtained prior to step S104-1-3. If it is determined in step S104-1-3 that the "fourth storage area" has been filled, the obtained random number value may be discarded.

(Step S104-1-6)
In step S104-1-6, the main CPU 101 acquires a random number value for determining the special symbol variation pattern. The random number value acquired in this process will be used in the winning determination process (step S104-1-8) and the special symbol variation start process (see FIG. 21) described later. After acquiring the random number value for determining the special symbol variation pattern, the process proceeds to step S104-1-7.

The random number value for determining the special symbol variation pattern may be obtained prior to step S104-1-3. If it is determined in step S104-1-3 that the "fourth memory area" has been filled, the obtained random number value may be discarded.

(Step S104-1-7)
In step S104-1-7, the main CPU 101 stores the random number values for determining a win, the random number values for determining a special symbol, and the random number values for determining a special symbol variation pattern in an available memory area as determination information. For example, if the "third memory area" is stored and the "fourth memory area" is empty, each random number value is stored in the "fourth memory area." Then, once each random number value has been stored in an available memory area, the process proceeds to step S104-1-8.

(Step S104-1-8)
In step S104-1-8, the main CPU 101 performs a winning time determination process. This winning time determination process is a process for determining whether the random number value acquired in step S104-1-4 is a big win, prior to the special symbol winning determination process in the special symbol variation start process (see FIG. 21). As a result, for example, if the winning time determination random number value stored in the "fourth memory area" in step S104-1-7 is a big win, a notice performance ("pre-reading performance" described later) can be executed across multiple variations. Then, when the winning time determination process is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-1-9.

(Step S104-1-9)
In step S104-1-9, the main CPU 101 sets the first start port winning command in the command transmission area in order to send the first start port winning command to the performance control board 200. The first start port winning command also includes information on the result of the winning time judgment process in step S104-1-8, and by receiving this command, the performance control board 200 can recognize whether the result of the winning time judgment process is a jackpot or a miss. Then, after setting the first start port winning command, the process proceeds to step S104-1-10.

(Step S104-1-10)
In step S104-1-10, the main CPU 101 sets the reserved memory area designation command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the reserved memory area designation command to the performance control board 200. The reserved memory area designation command is a command that indicates the storage status of the judgment information storage area (reserved memory area) of the main RAM 103, and is a command that includes information such as "-" if not stored in any reserved memory area, "0" if only the variable memory area is stored, "1" if stored up to the first memory area, "2" if stored up to the second memory area, "3" if stored up to the third memory area, and "4" if stored up to the fourth memory area. This allows the performance control board 200 to recognize the storage status of the judgment information storage area (reserved memory area) of the main RAM 103. Then, when the reserved memory area designation command is set, the process moves to step S104-2 of the input SW detection process.

(Regarding processing when the second starting port is detected)
Figure 18 is a flow chart showing the process at the time of detecting the second start port (a subroutine of step S104-2 of the input SW detection process) performed in the main control board 100. Note that Figure 18 is the same as Figure 17 except for the start port, and therefore the explanation will be omitted as appropriate.

(Step S104-2-1)
In step S104-2-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the information on the detection of the game ball entering has been input from the second start hole detection SW 22a. If the information on the detection of the game ball entering has been input from the second start hole detection SW 22a, the process proceeds to step S104-2-2. If the information on the detection of the game ball entering has not been input from the second start hole detection SW 22a, the process proceeds to step S104-3 of the input SW detection process.

(Step S104-2-2)
In step S104-2-2, the main CPU 101 sets a prize ball command in the payout command transmission area to cause the payout control board 300 to pay out two game balls as prize balls for the game ball entering the second starting hole 22. Then, after setting the prize ball command, the process proceeds to step S104-2-3.

(Step S104-2-3)
In step S104-2-3, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the above-mentioned "fourth memory area" has been stored. In other words, it judges whether or not the number of reserved symbol variation games in the second starting hole 22 is "4". If the "fourth memory area" has been stored, the process proceeds to step S104-3 of the input SW detection process, and if the "fourth memory area" has not been stored, the process proceeds to step S104-2-4.

(Step S104-2-4)
In step S104-2-4, the main CPU 101 obtains a random number value for determining whether or not a win has been determined. After obtaining the random number value for determining whether or not a win has been determined, the process proceeds to step S104-2-5.

(Step S104-2-5)
In step S104-2-5, the main CPU 101 obtains a random number value for determining a special symbol. After obtaining the random number value for determining a special symbol, the process proceeds to step S104-2-6.

(Step S104-2-6)
In step S104-2-6, the main CPU 101 obtains a random number value for determining a special symbol variation pattern. After obtaining the random number value for determining a special symbol variation pattern, the process proceeds to step S104-2-7.

(Step S104-2-7)
In step S104-2-7, the main CPU 101 stores the random number value for determining the winning combination, the random number value for determining the special symbol combination, and the random number value for determining the special symbol variation pattern in an available memory area as determination information. After storing each random number value in an available memory area, the process proceeds to step S104-2-8.

(Step S104-2-8)
In step S104-2-8, the main CPU 101 performs a prize determination process. Then, when the prize determination process ends, the process proceeds to step S104-2-9.

(Step S104-2-9)
In step S104-2-9, the main CPU 101 sets the second start hole winning command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the second start hole winning command to the performance control board 200. Then, when the second start hole winning command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-2-10.

(Step S104-2-10)
In step S104-2-10, the main CPU 101 sets the reserved memory area designation command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the reserved memory area designation command to the performance control board 200. Then, when the reserved memory area designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-3 of the input SW detection process.

(Processing when the second big winning hole is detected)
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the processing carried out in the main control board 100 when the second large prize opening is detected (a subroutine of step S104-5 of the input SW detection processing).

(Step S104-5-1)
In step S104-5-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not information on the detection of a game ball entering the game area has been input from the specific area detection SW 32c. If information on the detection of a game ball entering the game area has been input from the specific area detection SW 32c, the process proceeds to step S104-5-2. If information on the detection of a game ball entering the game area has not been input from the specific area detection SW 32c, the process proceeds to step S104-5-4.

(Step S104-5-2)
In step S104-5-2, the main CPU 101 turns ON the specific area passage flag in the specific area passage flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, after turning ON the specific area passage flag, the process proceeds to step S104-5-3.

(Step S104-5-3)
In step S104-5-3, the main CPU 101 sets the specific area passing command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the specific area passing command to the performance control board 200. The performance control board 200 that receives the command performs a performance (for example, "V win!") to notify the user that the game ball has passed through the specific area via the image and sound control unit 200b. Then, when the specific area passing command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-6 of the input SW detection process.

(Step S104-5-4)
In step S104-5-4, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the information on the detection of the game ball entering has been input from the second large prize opening detection SW 32a. If the information on the detection of the game ball entering has been input from the second large prize opening detection SW 32a, the process proceeds to step S104-5-5. If the information on the detection of the game ball entering has not been input from the second large prize opening detection SW 32a, the process proceeds to step S104-6 of the input SW detection process.

(Step S104-5-5)
In step S104-5-5, the main CPU 101 sets a prize ball command in the payout command transmission area to cause the payout control board 300 to pay out 12 game balls as prize balls for the game ball entering the second large winning port 32. Then, when the prize ball command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-6 of the input SW detection process.

(Regarding special pattern related processing)
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the special pattern-related processing performed in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S105 of the main control board timer interrupt processing).

(Step S105-1)
In step S105-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether a flag indicating a stopped state is stored in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. For example, when the main CPU 101 starts the variation of the special symbol, it sets the value "1" indicating the variation in the special symbol state flag storage area (step S105-2-13 in FIG. 22 described later), and when it stops the variation of the special symbol, it sets the value "0" indicating the stopped state in the special symbol state flag storage area (step S105-4-3 in FIG. 23 described later). Note that after setting the value "0" indicating the stopped state, if there is a big win, the value "2" indicating the big win 1 game is set. Also, after setting the value "0" indicating the stopped state, if there is a small win, the value "3" indicating the small win game is set. Also, when the value "3" indicating a small win game is set and the game ball passes through the specific area, the value "4" indicating a big win 2 game is set. If the value "0" indicating a stopped state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2, and if the value "0" indicating a stopped state is not set, the process proceeds to step S105-3.

(Step S105-2)
In step S105-2, the main CPU 101 performs the special symbol variation start time process shown in Fig. 21. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 21. Then, when the special symbol variation start time process ends, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-3)
In step S105-3, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a flag indicating that the symbol is changing is stored in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. If the value "1" indicating that the symbol is changing is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4, and if the value "1" indicating that the symbol is changing is not set, the process proceeds to step S105-5.

(Step S105-4)
In step S105-4, the main CPU 101 performs the special symbol variation process shown in Fig. 23. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 23. Then, when the special symbol variation process ends, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-5)
In step S105-5, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a flag indicating one big win game is stored in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. If the value "2" indicating one big win game is set, the process proceeds to step S105-6, and if the value "2" indicating one big win game is not set, the process proceeds to step S105-7.

(Step S105-6)
In step S105-6, the main CPU 101 performs the jackpot 1 game process shown in Fig. 24. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 24. Then, when the jackpot 1 game process is completed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-7)
In step S105-7, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a flag indicating a small win game is stored in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. If the value "3" indicating a small win game is set, the process proceeds to step S105-8, and if the value "3" indicating a small win game is not set, the process proceeds to step S105-9.

(Step S105-8)
In step S105-8, the main CPU 101 performs the small win game process shown in Fig. 25. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 25. Then, when the small win game process is completed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-9)
In step S105-9, if the main CPU 101 determines that the value "0" indicating stopped is not set, and that the value "1" indicating fluctuating is not set, and that the value "2" indicating jackpot 1 play is not set, and that the value "3" indicating small win play is not set, it determines that the value "4" indicating jackpot 2 play is set, and performs jackpot 2 play processing shown in Figure 27. This processing will be described in detail later using Figure 27. Then, when the jackpot 2 play processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt processing.

(Regarding the processing at the start of special symbol fluctuation)
FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing the special symbol variation start processing carried out in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S105-2 of the special symbol related processing).

(Step S105-2-1)
In step S105-2-1, the main CPU 101 determines whether the reserved memory area of the pattern variation game corresponding to the second start hole 22, which is provided in the main RAM 103, is in a state of "-" where no balls are reserved in any of the "variable memory area" through the "fourth memory area". If the number of reserved balls corresponding to the second start hole 22 is not "-", the process proceeds to step S105-2-2, and if the number of reserved balls corresponding to the second start hole 22 is "-", the process proceeds to step S105-2-4.

(Step S105-2-2)
In step S105-2-2, the main CPU 101 subtracts "1" from the number of reserved balls in the second start hole 22. As described above in the section "Regarding the second start hole 22," the subtraction corresponds to sliding the judgment information (random value) in the "variable memory area" to the "fourth memory area" and then emptying the memory area of "1." Accordingly, the display of the second special symbol reserved indicator 27d also changes to a display mode (from "blinking" to "lit," or from "lit" to "off") according to the number of reserved balls. Then, after subtracting "1" from the number of reserved balls in the second start hole 22, the process proceeds to step S105-2-3.

(Step S105-2-3)
In step S105-2-3, the main CPU 101 sets the second start port subtraction command in the command transmission area described above in order to subtract the reserved number managed by the performance control board 200. Then, when the second start port subtraction command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-8.

(Step S105-2-4)
In step S105-2-4, the main CPU 101 determines whether the pending memory area corresponding to the first start port 21, which is provided in the main RAM 103, is in a "-" state, meaning that no pending items are in any of the "variable memory area" through the "fourth memory area." If the number of pending items corresponding to the first start port 21 is not "-", the process proceeds to step S105-2-5, and if the number of pending items corresponding to the first start port 21 is "-", the process proceeds to step S105-2-7.

(Step S105-2-5)
In step S105-2-5, the main CPU 101 subtracts "1" from the number of reserved balls in the first start hole 21. As described above in the section "Regarding the first start hole 21," the subtraction corresponds to sliding the judgment information (random value) in the "variable memory area" to the "fourth memory area" and then emptying the memory area of "1." Accordingly, the display of the first special symbol reserved indicator 27c also changes to a display mode (from "blinking" to "lit," or from "lit" to "off") according to the number of reserved balls. Then, after subtracting "1" from the number of reserved balls in the first start hole 21, the process proceeds to step S105-2-6.

(Step S105-2-6)
In step S105-2-6, the main CPU 101 sets the first start port subtraction command in the command transmission area described above in order to subtract the reserved number managed by the performance control board 200. Then, when the first start port subtraction command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-8.

(Step S105-2-7)
In step S105-2-7, if the symbol variation game is not played for a predetermined time, the main CPU 101 determines that the player is not playing, and sets a demo command in the command transmission area to display a demo screen (demo performance) showing the model name and manufacturer name on the image display device 26. Then, when the demo command is set, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

Although details are omitted, when the symbol change game is ended and the status is "-" and not stored in any reserved memory area, the state is "Waiting for customers". "Waiting for customers" refers to a state in which, for example, the sub-symbols confirmed and displayed in the most recently ended symbol change game, the background image displayed in the most recently ended symbol change game, the change icon display area 26o, the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j (which may also include the reserved ball image display area of the second start port) are displayed, and, for example, an image that notifies the user that the volume or light intensity can be adjusted is further added and displayed. Then, when a predetermined time has elapsed in "Waiting for customers", a "demo performance" is executed. In addition, in the "demo performance", the sub-patterns and background images displayed in "Waiting for customers" as well as the variable icon display area 26o, the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j (which may also include the reserved ball image display area of the second start port) are not displayed, and for example, the entire display area is used to display the model name and manufacturer name. Then, when a predetermined time has elapsed in the "demo performance", it will again become "Waiting for customers".

(Step S105-2-8)
In step S105-2-8, the main CPU 101 sets the reserved memory area designation command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the reserved memory area designation command to the performance control board 200. Then, when the reserved memory area designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-9.

(Step S105-2-9)
In step S105-2-9, if the main CPU 101 has performed step S105-2-2 and then reached this processing, it uses the determination information (random number value) acquired and stored in the second start hole detection processing to determine whether the determination information (random number value) is a big win or a small win, or if the main CPU 101 has performed step S105-2-5 and then reached this processing, it uses the determination information (random number value) acquired and stored in the first start hole detection processing to determine whether the determination information (random number value) is a big win or a small win. This processing will be described in detail later using FIG. 22. Then, when the special symbol hit determination processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S105-2-10.

(Step S105-2-10)
In step S105-2-10, the main CPU 101 determines the variation pattern of the special symbol in the symbol variation game. For example, when the ball enters the first start hole 21 in the normal game state and is determined to be a miss, one of the variation patterns is determined from "variation pattern 1" to "variation pattern 6." When the ball enters the first start hole 21 in the normal game state and is determined to be a big win, one of the variation patterns is determined from "variation pattern 7" to "variation pattern 11." When the ball enters the second start hole 22 in the time-saving game state and is determined to be a miss, one of the variation patterns is determined from "variation pattern 12" to "variation pattern 14." When the ball enters the second start hole 22 in the time-saving game state and is determined to be a big win, one of the variation patterns is determined from "variation pattern 15." In the time-saving game state, if the ball enters the second starting hole 22 and is determined to be a small win, then one of the variation patterns is determined from "variation pattern 18" to "variation pattern 20". In the normal game state, if the ball enters the second starting hole 22 and is determined to be a miss, then "variation pattern 21" is determined. In the normal game state, if the ball enters the second starting hole 22 and is determined to be a big win, then "variation pattern 22" is determined. In the normal game state, if the ball enters the second starting hole 22 and is determined to be a small win, then "variation pattern 23" is determined. Then, when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined, the process proceeds to step S105-2-11.

(Step S105-2-11)
In step S105-2-11, the main CPU 101 sets a special symbol variation pattern designation command in the command transmission area in order to transmit a command indicating the special symbol variation pattern determined in step S105-2-10 to the performance control board 200. For example, if "variation pattern 9" is determined in step S105-2-10, a special symbol variation pattern designation command indicating "variation pattern 9" is set. Then, when the special symbol variation pattern designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-12.

(Step S105-2-12)
In step S105-2-12, the main CPU 101 sets the fluctuation time (see FIG. 10) corresponding to the special symbol fluctuation pattern determined in step S105-2-10 in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. For example, if "fluctuation pattern 9" is determined, the fluctuation time "70S" is set. After the fluctuation time is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-13.

(Step S105-2-13)
In step S105-2-13, the main CPU 101 sets the value "1" indicating that the special symbol is changing in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. This allows the player to recognize that the special symbol is changing. In addition, in this process, the subtraction of the change time set in step S105-2-12 is started. Then, when the value "1" indicating that the special symbol is changing is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

In the explanation of FIG. 21 above, if there is judgment information for the second starting hole 22 in step S105-2-1, the special pattern hit judgment process is executed in priority to the first starting hole 21, but the special pattern hit judgment process may be executed in the order in which the balls enter the first starting hole 21 and the second starting hole 22.

(Regarding the special symbol winning judgment process)
FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing the special symbol winning determination process carried out in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S105-2-9 of the special symbol variation start processing).

(Step S105-2-9-1)
In step S105-2-9-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a jackpot has been hit. In other words, it judges whether or not the random number value for hit judgment in the judgment information (random number value) matches the random number value for hit winning. If it is a jackpot, the process proceeds to step S105-2-9-2. If it is not a jackpot, the process proceeds to step S105-2-9-4.

(Step S105-2-9-2)
In step S105-2-9-2, the main CPU 101 determines the special jackpot symbol. That is, the special jackpot symbol is determined using a random number value for determining the special symbol and a jackpot special symbol determination table. For example, if a jackpot is determined by a ball entering the first starting hole 21 and the random number value for determining the special symbol is any of "0 to 49," the special symbol A is determined, and if a jackpot is determined by a ball entering the first starting hole 21 and the random number value for determining the special symbol is any of "50 to 99," the special symbol B is determined. Then, when the special jackpot symbol is determined, the process proceeds to step S105-2-9-3.

(Step S105-2-9-3)
In step S105-2-9-3, the main CPU 101 sets a special jackpot symbol designation command in the command transmission area in order to make the performance control board 200 recognize the determined special jackpot symbol. Then, when the special jackpot symbol designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-10.

(Step S105-2-9-4)
In step S105-2-9-4, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not it is a small win. That is, it judges whether or not the random number value for winning judgment in the judgment information (random number value) matches the random number value for winning the small win. Then, if it is a small win, the process proceeds to step S105-2-9-5, and if it is not a small win, the process proceeds to step S105-2-9-7.

(Step S105-2-9-5)
In step S105-2-9-5, the main CPU 101 determines the small win special symbol. That is, the small win special symbol is determined using the random number value for determining the special symbol and the small win special symbol determination table. For example, if a small win is determined by a ball entering the second starting hole 22 and the random number value for determining the special symbol is equivalent to any of "0 to 24", the special symbol D is determined; if a small win is determined by a ball entering the second starting hole 22 and the random number value for determining the special symbol is equivalent to any of "25 to 49", the special symbol E is determined; if a small win is determined by a ball entering the second starting hole 22 and the random number value for determining the special symbol is equivalent to any of "50 to 74", the special symbol F is determined; and if a small win is determined by a ball entering the second starting hole 22 and the random number value for determining the special symbol is equivalent to any of "75 to 99", the special symbol G is determined. Then, when the small win special symbol is determined, the process proceeds to step S105-2-9-6.

(Step S105-2-9-6)
In step S105-2-9-6, the main CPU 101 sets a small win special symbol designation command in the command transmission area to make the performance control board 200 recognize the determined small win special symbol. Then, when the small win special symbol designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-10.

(Step S105-2-9-7)
In step S105-2-9-7, the main CPU 101 determines the special losing symbol. That is, the random number value for determining the special symbol and the special losing symbol determination table are used to determine the special losing symbol. For example, if a ball lands in the first starting hole 21 and a losing symbol is determined, the special symbol H is determined, and if a ball lands in the second starting hole 22 and a losing symbol is determined, the special symbol I is determined. Then, when the special losing symbol is determined, the process proceeds to step S105-2-9-8.

(Step S105-2-9-8)
In step S105-2-9-8, the main CPU 101 sets a losing special symbol designation command in the command transmission area in order to make the performance control board 200 recognize the determined losing special symbol. Then, when the losing special symbol designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-10.

(Regarding processing during special pattern changes)
FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing the special symbol variable processing carried out in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S105-4 of the special symbol related processing).

(Step S105-4-1)
In step S105-4-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether the set variation time has elapsed in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. For example, when "variation pattern 9" is determined and "70S" is set, it judges whether "70S" has elapsed. In addition, the timing at which it is judged that the timer has elapsed may be brought forward for the convenience of transmitting a pattern stop command to the performance control board 200 described later. For example, in the case of "variation pattern 9", the timing at which it is judged that the timer has elapsed may be the time when "69S" has elapsed. In this way, it is possible to prevent a significant difference from occurring between the timing at which the special pattern is determined and displayed on the first special pattern display device 27a or the second special pattern display device 27b and the timing at which the sub-pattern is determined and displayed on the image display device 26. Then, when the variation time of the special pattern has elapsed, the process moves to step S105-4-2, and when the variation time of the special pattern has not elapsed, the process moves to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-4-2)
In step S105-4-2, the main CPU 101 sets a symbol stop command in the command transmission area in order to transmit a symbol stop command for stopping the sub-symbols variably displayed on the image display device 26 to the performance control board 200. Then, when the symbol stop command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4-3.

(Step S105-4-3)
In step S105-4-3, the main CPU 101 sets the value "0" indicating that the special symbol is stopped in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. This allows the main CPU 101 to recognize that the special symbol is stopped. Then, when the value "0" indicating that the special symbol is stopped is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S105-4-4.

(Step S105-4-4)
In step S105-4-4, the main CPU 101 judges whether a value is set in a time-saving counter provided in the main RAM 103. This time-saving counter is set in the jackpot 1 game process or the jackpot 2 game process described later. If a value is set in the time-saving counter, the process proceeds to step S105-4-5, and if a value is not set in the time-saving counter, the process proceeds to step S105-4-9.

(Step S105-4-5)
In step S105-4-5, the main CPU 101 decrements the value of the time-saving count counter (decrements "1"), and then proceeds to step S105-4-6.

(Step S105-4-6)
In step S105-4-6, the main CPU 101 judges whether the value of the time-saving counter after subtraction is "0". If the value of the time-saving counter after subtraction is "0", the process proceeds to step S105-4-7, and if the value of the time-saving counter after subtraction is not "0", the process proceeds to step S105-4-9.

(Step S105-4-7)
In step S105-4-7, the main CPU 101 sets the gaming state to the normal gaming state. For example, in the gaming state storage area of the main RAM 103, "0" is stored if the gaming state is the normal gaming state, and "1" is stored if the gaming state is the time-saving gaming state. Therefore, in this process, "0" is set in the gaming state storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the gaming state is set to the normal gaming state, the process proceeds to step S105-4-8.

(Step S105-4-8)
In step S105-4-8, the main CPU 101 sets a game state command (normal) in the command transmission area in order to transmit a game state command indicating that the game is in the normal game state to the performance control board 200. Then, when the game state command indicating that the game is in the normal game state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4-9.

(Step S105-4-9)
In step S105-4-9, the main CPU 101 sets the value "0" indicating that the reels are stopped in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "0" indicating that the reels are stopped is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-4-10)
In step S105-4-10, the main CPU 101 judges whether the judgment result in step S105-2-9-1 in Fig. 23 is a jackpot. If it is a jackpot, the process proceeds to step S105-4-11, and if it is not a jackpot, the process proceeds to step S105-4-16.

(Step S105-4-11)
In step S105-4-11, the main CPU 101 sets the value "2" indicating jackpot 1 play (jackpot 1) in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. This allows the player to recognize that it is jackpot 1 play (jackpot 1). Then, when the value "2" indicating jackpot 1 play (jackpot 1) is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S105-4-12.

(Step S105-4-12)
In step S105-4-12, the main CPU 101 shifts to a jackpot opening, which notifies the start of the jackpot 1 game. For example, the jackpot 1 state storage area of the main RAM 103 stores the state of the jackpot 1 game, and if it is a jackpot opening, "0" is set, if the first big prize winning port 24 is open, "1" is set, if it is an interval between rounds, "2" is set, and if it is an ending, "3" is set. Although not shown, for example, whether the game state at the time of the jackpot is a normal game state or a time-saving game state, the game state is temporarily set to the normal game state in this process. Then, when the jackpot opening is shifted to, the process shifts to step S105-4-13.

(Step S105-4-13)
In step S105-4-13, the main CPU 101 sets a jackpot opening command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the jackpot opening command for executing the presentation corresponding to the opening of the jackpot 1 game to the presentation control board 200. Then, when the jackpot opening command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4-14.

(Step S105-4-14)
In step S105-4-14, the main CPU 101 sets a time corresponding to the opening of one big win game (for example, "10S") in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. Then, when the time corresponding to the big win opening is set, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-4-15)
In step S105-4-15, the main CPU 101 judges whether the result of the judgment in step S105-2-9-4 in Fig. 23 is a small win. If it is a small win, the process proceeds to step S105-4-16. If it is not a small win, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-4-16)
In step S105-4-16, the main CPU 101 sets the value "3" indicating a small win game (during a small win) in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. This allows the player to recognize that the game is a small win game (during a small win). Then, when the value "3" indicating a small win game (during a small win) is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S105-4-16.

(Step S105-4-17)
In step S105-4-17, the main CPU 101 transitions to a small win opening that notifies the start of a small win game. For example, the small win state storage area of the main RAM 103 stores the state of the small win game, and if it is a small win opening, "0" is set, and if the second large winning opening 32 is open, "1" is set. Although not shown, for example, regardless of whether the game state when a small win occurs is a normal game state or a time-saving game state, the game state is temporarily set to the normal game state in this process. Then, when the transition is made to the small win opening, the process transitions to step S105-4-18.

(Step S105-4-18)
In step S105-4-18, the main CPU 101 sets a small win opening command in the command transmission area in order to transmit a small win opening command for executing a presentation corresponding to the opening of the small win game to the presentation control board 200. Then, when the small win opening command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4-19.

(Step S105-4-19)
In step S105-4-19, the main CPU 101 sets a time corresponding to the opening of the small win game (for example, "10S") in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. Then, when the time corresponding to the small win opening is set, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

In this embodiment, the termination conditions of the time-saving game state (termination conditions of the opening support state of the second start port 22) are, as described above, a small win with the "special symbol D", a small win with the "special symbol F", and the pattern change game being played "100" times at the first start port 21 and the second start port 22. However, it is also assumed that a small win with the "special symbol D" or the "special symbol F" will occur in the "100" pattern change game in the time-saving game state. In other words, there are cases where multiple termination conditions of the time-saving game state are met at the same time. In this case, as described in the flowchart of FIG. 23, in order to determine whether the number of time-saving times is 0, it is first recognized that the pattern change game has been played "100" times at the first start port 21 and the second start port 22 (without determining whether the termination conditions with the special symbol D or the special symbol F are met), and the time-saving game state is terminated. This simplifies the control flow by eliminating the need to determine whether the termination condition for special pattern D or special pattern F is met.

(About the jackpot 1 game process)
FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the jackpot 1 game processing carried out in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S105-6 of the special symbol related processing).

(Step S105-6-1)
In step S105-6-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a jackpot opening is in progress. That is, it judges whether or not "0", which indicates a jackpot opening, is set in the jackpot 1 state storage area of the main RAM 103. When the first big prize opening is opened in step S105-6-3 described later, the value of the jackpot 1 state storage area changes from "0" to "1". If a jackpot opening is in progress, the process proceeds to step S105-6-2, and if a jackpot opening is not in progress, the process proceeds to step S105-6-4.

(Step S105-6-2)
In step S105-6-2, the main CPU 101 judges whether the time (for example, "10S") corresponding to the jackpot opening set in step S105-4-13 in Fig. 23 described above has elapsed. If the time corresponding to the jackpot opening has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S105-6-3, and if the time corresponding to the jackpot opening has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-6-3)
In step S105-6-3, the main CPU 101 drives the first large prize opening opening solenoid 24b to open the first large prize opening 24. Also, the time management counter in the main RAM 103 is set to an opening time of 29.5 S. This starts the first round of the first large prize game. In this process, the value in the first large prize opening state storage area is changed from "0" to "1." Then, when the first large prize opening 24 is opened, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-6-4)
In step S105-6-4, the main CPU 101 judges whether the first large prize opening is open. It judges whether "1" indicating that the first large prize opening is open is set in the jackpot 1 state storage area of the main RAM 103. If the first large prize opening is open, the process proceeds to step S105-6-5. If the first large prize opening is not open, the process proceeds to step S105-6-7.

(Step S105-6-5)
In step S105-6-5, the main CPU 101 determines whether either of the first large prize opening closing conditions is met, that is, whether 29.5 S has elapsed with the first large prize opening 24 open without the first large prize opening detection SW 24a detecting 10 balls entering, or whether the first large prize opening detection SW 24a has detected 10 balls entering. If the first large prize opening closing condition is met, the process proceeds to step S105-6-6, and if the first large prize opening closing condition is not met, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-6-6)
In step S105-6-6, the main CPU 101 transitions to the inter-round interval that constitutes the period from when the first large prize opening 24 closes until the next opening. In this process, the value of the jackpot 1 state storage area is changed from "1" to "2." Then, after transitioning to the inter-round interval, the process transitions to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-6-7)
In step S105-6-7, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not it is during the inter-round interval. That is, it judges whether or not "2" indicating the inter-round interval is set in the jackpot 1 state storage area of the main RAM 103. If it is during the inter-round interval, the process proceeds to step S105-6-8, and if it is not during the inter-round interval, the process proceeds to step S105-6-12.

(Step S105-6-8)
In step S105-6-8, the main CPU 101 determines whether it is the end of the final round. For example, in step S105-6-10 described below, if the number of remaining rounds is "0" as a result of updating (incrementing or decrementing) the number of rounds, it determines in this process that it is the end of the final round. If it is the end of the final round, the process proceeds to step S105-6-9, and if it is not the end of the final round, the process proceeds to step S105-6-10.

(Step S105-6-9)
In step S105-6-9, the main CPU 101 transitions to a jackpot ending that notifies the user that the jackpot 1 game has ended. In this process, the value of the jackpot 1 state storage area is changed from "2" to "3." In addition, the time corresponding to the ending of the jackpot 1 game (for example, "10S") is set in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. Then, when the transition to the jackpot ending has been made, the process transitions to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-6-10)
In step S105-6-10, the main CPU 101 updates the value of the round number counter in the main RAM 103. The updating method may be increment or decrement. For example, if a "6 round" jackpot is awarded, the round number counter in the main RAM 103 may be set to "6" and decremented by 1 each time a round is played, or the round number counter in the main RAM 103 may not be set to "6" and may be incremented by 1 each time a round is played. After updating the number of rounds, the process proceeds to step S105-6-11.

(Step S105-6-11)
In step S105-6-11, the main CPU 101 drives the first large prize opening opening solenoid 24b to open the first large prize opening 24. Also, the time management counter in the main RAM 103 is set to an opening time of 29.5 S. This starts the second round and onward of the first large prize opening game. In this process, the value in the first large prize opening state storage area is changed from "0" to "1." Then, when the first large prize opening 24 is opened, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-6-12)
In step S105-6-12, the main CPU 101 judges whether the time (for example, "10S") corresponding to the jackpot ending set in the above-mentioned step S105-6-9 has elapsed. If the time corresponding to the jackpot ending has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S105-6-13. If the time corresponding to the jackpot ending has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-6-13)
In step S105-6-13, the main CPU 101 determines whether the special symbol is either "special symbol B" or "special symbol C." In other words, it determines whether the symbol determined in the jackpot special symbol determination process is either "special symbol B" or "special symbol C." If the special symbol is either "special symbol B" or "special symbol C," the process proceeds to step S105-6-14, and if the special symbol is neither "special symbol B" nor "special symbol C," the process proceeds to step S105-6-18.

(Step S105-6-14)
In step S105-6-14, the main CPU 101 sets the gaming state to the time-saving gaming state. Therefore, in this process, the main CPU 101 sets "1" to the gaming state storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, after setting "1" to the gaming state storage area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S105-6-15.

(Step S105-6-15)
In step S105-6-15, the main CPU 101 sets the time-saving count counter provided in the main RAM 103 to "100". This will cause a time-saving gaming state of "100" times to start from the next variation. Then, when the time-saving count counter provided in the main RAM 103 has been set to "100", the process proceeds to step S105-6-16.

(Step S105-6-16)
In step S105-6-16, the main CPU 101 sets a game state command (time reduction) in the command transmission area in order to transmit a game state command indicating that the game is in a time-reduction game state to the performance control board 200. Then, when the game state command indicating that the game is in a time-reduction game state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-6-17.

(Step S105-6-17)
In step S105-6-17, the main CPU 101 sets the value "0" indicating stopped in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "0" indicating stopped is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-6-18)
In step S105-6-18, the main CPU 101 sets the game state to the normal game state. Therefore, in this process, the main CPU 101 sets "0" in the game state storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, after setting "0" in the game state storage area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S105-6-19.

(Step S105-6-19)
In step S105-6-19, the main CPU 101 sets a game state command (normal) in the command transmission area in order to transmit a game state command indicating that the game is in the normal game state to the performance control board 200. Then, when the game state command indicating that the game is in the normal game state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-6-20.

(Step S105-6-20)
In step S105-6-20, the main CPU 101 sets the value "0" indicating stopped in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "0" indicating stopped is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding small win game processing)
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the small win game processing carried out in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S105-8 of the special symbol related processing).

(Step S105-8-1)
In step S105-8-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether a small win opening is in progress. That is, it judges whether "0", which indicates a small win opening, is set in the small win status storage area of the main RAM 103. When the second large prize opening is opened in step S105-8-3 described later, the value in the small win status storage area changes from "0" to "1". Then, if a small win opening is in progress, the process proceeds to step S105-8-2, and if a small win opening is not in progress, the process proceeds to step S105-8-5.

(Step S105-8-2)
In step S105-8-2, the main CPU 101 judges whether the time (for example, "10S") corresponding to the small win opening set in step S105-4-18 of Fig. 23 described above has elapsed. If the time corresponding to the small win opening has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S105-8-3, and if the time corresponding to the small win opening has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-8-3)
In step S105-8-3, the main CPU 101 drives the second large prize opening opening solenoid 32b to open the second large prize opening 32. In addition, the time management counter in the main RAM 103 is set to an opening time of 1.8S. This starts the first round of the small prize game. In this process, the value in the small prize status storage area is changed from "0" to "1". Then, when the second large prize opening 32 is opened, the process proceeds to step S105-8-4.

(Step S105-8-4)
In step S105-8-4, the main CPU 101 drives the specific area opening/closing solenoid 32d to control the lid member provided in the specific area from a closed state to an open state. The lid member is opened in conjunction with the opening of the second large prize opening 32, and the lid member is closed in conjunction with the closing of the second large prize opening 32. After controlling the opening and closing of the lid member in the specific area, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-8-5)
In step S105-8-5, the main CPU 101 determines whether the specific area passage flag is ON by referring to the specific area passage flag storage area in the main RAM 103. If the specific area passage flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S105-8-6, and if the specific area passage flag is not ON, the process proceeds to step S105-8-7.

(Step S105-8-6)
In step S105-8-6, the main CPU 101 performs the second type big win transition control process shown in Fig. 26. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 26. Then, when the second type big win transition control process is completed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-8-7)
In step S105-8-7, the main CPU 101 judges whether the second large prize opening is being opened. That is, it judges whether "1" indicating that the second large prize opening is being opened is set in the small win status storage area of the main RAM 103. If the second large prize opening is being opened, the process proceeds to step S105-8-8. If the second large prize opening is not being opened, the process proceeds to step S105-8-11.

(Step S105-8-8)
In step S105-8-8, the main CPU 101 determines whether the second large prize opening 32 has been opened for 1.8 seconds, or whether the second large prize opening detection switch 32a has detected 10 balls entering the second large prize opening, and if the second large prize opening closing condition is met, the process proceeds to step S105-8-9. If the second large prize opening closing condition is not met, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-8-9)
In step S105-8-9, the main CPU 101 closes the second large prize opening 32 to end the small win game. Then, when the small win game ends, the process proceeds to step S105-8-10.

(Step S105-8-10)
In step S105-8-10, the main CPU 101 transitions to a small win ending that notifies the end of the small win game. In this process, the value of the small win status storage area is changed from "1" to "2". In addition, the time corresponding to the ending of the small win game (for example, "5S") is set in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. Then, when the transition to the small win ending is made, the process transitions to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-8-11)
In step S105-8-11, the main CPU 101 judges whether the time (for example, "5S") corresponding to the small winning ending set in the above-mentioned step S105-8-10 has elapsed. If the time corresponding to the small winning ending has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S105-8-12, and if the time corresponding to the small winning ending has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-8-12)
In step S105-8-12, the main CPU 101 sets the game state to the normal game state. Therefore, in this process, the main CPU 101 sets "0" in the game state storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, after setting "0" in the game state storage area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S105-8-13.

(Step S105-8-13)
In step S105-8-13, the main CPU 101 sets a game state command (normal) in the command transmission area in order to transmit a game state command indicating that the game is in the normal game state to the performance control board 200. Then, when the game state command indicating that the game is in the normal game state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-8-14.

(Step S105-8-14)
In step S105-8-14, the main CPU 101 sets the value "0" indicating stopped in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "0" indicating stopped is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding the second type jackpot transition control process)
FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the second type big win transition control processing performed in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S105-8-6 of the small win game processing).

(Step S105-8-6-1)
In step S105-8-6-1, the main CPU 101 closes the second large prize opening 32 to end the small win game. Then, when the small win game ends, the process proceeds to step S105-8-6-2.

(Step S105-8-6-2)
In step S105-8-6-2, the main CPU 101 turns OFF the specific area passage flag in the specific area passage flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, after turning OFF the specific area passage flag, the process proceeds to step S105-8-6-3.

(Step S105-8-6-3)
In step S105-8-6-3, the main CPU 101 sets the number of rounds corresponding to the small win special symbol in the round number counter of the main RAM 103. The small win special symbols are 6 rounds for "special symbol D" and "special symbol E", and 10 rounds for "special symbol F" and "special symbol G". Since the first round has already been played in the small win game, the number of rounds set in this process is set to "5" corresponding to 5 rounds for "special symbol D" and "special symbol E", and "9" corresponding to 9 rounds for "special symbol F" and "special symbol G". Then, when the number of rounds corresponding to the small win special symbol is set in the round number counter of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S105-8-6-4.

(Step S105-8-6-4)
In step S105-8-6-4, the main CPU 101 sets the value "4" indicating jackpot 2 play (jackpot in progress 2) in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "4" indicating jackpot 2 play (jackpot in progress 2) is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(About the jackpot 2 game process)
FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the jackpot 2 game processing carried out in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S105-9 of the special symbol related processing).

(Step S105-9-1)
In step S105-9-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether the start condition of the second round is satisfied. Note that a predetermined interval time (for example, "5S") is provided from the end of the small win game to the start of the big win 2 game, and when the interval time has elapsed, it is judged that the start condition of the second round is satisfied. Then, if the start condition of the second round is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S105-9-2, and if the start condition of the second round is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S105-9-3.

(Step S105-9-2)
In step S105-9-2, the main CPU 101 drives the first large prize opening opening solenoid 24b to open the first large prize opening 24. Also, the time management counter in the main RAM 103 is set to an opening time of 29.5 S. This starts the first round of the big prize 2 game (the second round if the small prize game is included). In this process, the value of the big prize 2 state storage area is changed from "0" to "1". Then, when the first large prize opening 24 is opened, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-9-3)
In step S105-9-3, the main CPU 101 judges whether the first large prize opening is being opened. That is, it judges whether "1" indicating that the first large prize opening is being opened is set in the big win 2 state storage area of the main RAM 103. If the first large prize opening is being opened, the process proceeds to step S105-9-4. If the first large prize opening is not being opened, the process proceeds to step S105-9-6.

(Step S105-9-4)
In step S105-9-4, the main CPU 101 determines whether either of the first large prize opening closing conditions is met, that is, whether 29.5 S has elapsed with the first large prize opening 24 open without the first large prize opening detection SW 24a detecting 10 balls entering, or whether the first large prize opening detection SW 24a has detected 10 balls entering. If the first large prize opening closing condition is met, the process proceeds to step S105-9-5, and if the first large prize opening closing condition is not met, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-9-5)
In step S105-9-5, the main CPU 101 transitions to the inter-round interval that constitutes the period from when the first large prize opening 24 closes until it opens again. In this process, the value of the jackpot 2 state storage area is changed from "1" to "2." Then, after transitioning to the inter-round interval, the process transitions to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-9-6)
In step S105-9-6, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not it is during the inter-round interval. That is, it judges whether or not "2" indicating the inter-round interval is set in the jackpot 2 state storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, if it is during the inter-round interval, the process proceeds to step S105-9-7, and if it is not during the inter-round interval, the process proceeds to step S105-9-11.

(Step S105-9-7)
In step S105-9-7, the main CPU 101 determines whether it is the end of the final round. For example, in step S105-9-9 described below, if the number of remaining rounds is "0" as a result of updating (incrementing or decrementing) the number of rounds, it determines in this process that it is the end of the final round. If it is the end of the final round, the process proceeds to step S105-9-8, and if it is not the end of the final round, the process proceeds to step S105-9-9.

(Step S105-9-8)
In step S105-9-8, the main CPU 101 transitions to a jackpot ending that notifies the user that the jackpot 2 game has ended. In this process, the value of the jackpot 2 state storage area is changed from "2" to "3." In addition, the time corresponding to the ending of the jackpot 2 game (for example, "10S") is set in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. Then, when the transition to the jackpot ending has been made, the process transitions to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-9-9)
In step S105-9-9, the main CPU 101 updates the value of the round number counter in the main RAM 103. The updating method is the same as in the processing during one big win game described above. Then, after updating the round number, the process proceeds to step S105-9-10.

(Step S105-9-10)
In step S105-9-10, the main CPU 101 drives the first large prize opening opening solenoid 24b to open the first large prize opening 24. Also, the time management counter in the main RAM 103 is set to an opening time of 29.5 S. This starts the second round and onward of the big prize 2 game. In this process, the value in the big prize 2 state storage area is changed from "0" to "1." Then, when the first large prize opening 24 is opened, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-9-11)
In step S105-9-11, the main CPU 101 judges whether the time (for example, "10S") corresponding to the jackpot ending set in the above-mentioned step S105-9-8 has elapsed. If the time corresponding to the jackpot ending has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S105-9-12, and if the time corresponding to the jackpot ending has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-9-12)
In step S105-9-12, the main CPU 101 determines whether the special symbol is either "special symbol E" or "special symbol G." In other words, it determines whether the symbol determined in the jackpot special symbol determination process is either "special symbol E" or "special symbol G." If the special symbol is either "special symbol E" or "special symbol G," the process proceeds to step S105-9-13, and if the special symbol is neither "special symbol E" nor "special symbol G," the process proceeds to step S105-9-17.

(Step S105-9-13)
In step S105-9-13, the main CPU 101 sets the game state to the time-saving game state. Therefore, in this process, the main CPU 101 sets "1" to the game state storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, after setting "1" to the game state storage area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S105-9-14.

(Step S105-9-14)
In step S105-9-14, the main CPU 101 sets the time-saving count counter provided in the main RAM 103 to "100". This will cause a time-saving gaming state of "100" times to start from the next variation. Then, when the time-saving count counter provided in the main RAM 103 has been set to "100", the process proceeds to step S105-9-15.

(Step S105-9-15)
In step S105-9-15, the main CPU 101 sets a game state command (time reduction) in the command transmission area in order to transmit a game state command indicating that the game is in the time-reduction game state to the performance control board 200. Then, when the game state command indicating that the game is in the time-reduction game state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-9-16.

(Step S105-9-16)
In step S105-9-16, the main CPU 101 sets the value "0" indicating that the reels are stopped in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "0" indicating that the reels are stopped is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-9-17)
In step S105-9-17, the main CPU 101 sets the game state to the normal game state. Therefore, in this process, the main CPU 101 sets "0" to the game state storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, after setting "0" to the game state storage area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S105-9-18.

(Step S105-9-18)
In step S105-9-18, the main CPU 101 sets a game state command (normal) in the command transmission area in order to transmit a game state command indicating that the game is in the normal game state to the performance control board 200. Then, when the game state command indicating that the game is in the normal game state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-9-19.

(Step S105-6-19)
In step S105-6-19, the main CPU 101 sets the value "0" indicating that the reels are stopped in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "0" indicating that the reels are stopped is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding normal pattern related processing)
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing normal pattern-related processing performed in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt processing).

(Step S106-1)
In step S106-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether a flag indicating a stopped state is stored in the normal symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. For example, when the main CPU 101 starts the fluctuation of the normal symbol, it sets the value "1" indicating a changing state in the normal symbol state flag storage area (step S106-2-12 in FIG. 29 described later), and when it stops the fluctuation of the normal symbol, it sets the value "0" indicating a stopped state in the normal symbol state flag storage area (step S106-4-2 in FIG. 30 described later). Note that after setting the value "0" indicating a stopped state, if the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the value "2" indicating a winning symbol is set. Then, if the value "0" indicating a stopped state is set, the process proceeds to step S106-2, and if the value "0" indicating a stopped state is not set, the process proceeds to step S106-3.

(Step S106-2)
In step S106-2, the main CPU 101 performs the normal symbol variation start time processing shown in Fig. 29. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 29. Then, when the normal symbol variation start time processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt processing.

(Step S106-3)
In step S106-3, the main CPU 101 judges whether a flag indicating that the symbol is changing is stored in the normal symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. If the value "1" indicating that the symbol is changing is set, the process proceeds to step S106-4, and if the value "1" indicating that the symbol is changing is not set, the process proceeds to step S106-5.

(Step S106-4)
In step S106-4, the main CPU 101 performs the normal pattern variation process shown in Fig. 30. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 30. Then, when the normal pattern variation process is completed, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-5)
In step S106-5, when the main CPU 101 determines that the value "0" indicating that the symbol is stopped is not set and that the value "1" indicating that the symbol is fluctuating is not set, it determines that the value "2" indicating that the symbol is in a normal winning state is set, and performs normal winning process shown in Fig. 31. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 31. Then, when the normal winning process is completed, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding normal pattern change start processing)
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the main control board 100 when the normal symbol variation starts (a subroutine of step S106-2 of the normal symbol related processing).

(Step S106-2-1)
In step S106-2-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether there is judgment information in the normal symbol storage area (see FIG. 11) provided in the main RAM 103. If there is judgment information in the normal symbol storage area, the process proceeds to step S106-2-2. If there is no judgment information in the normal symbol storage area, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-2-2)
In step S106-2-2, the main CPU 101 subtracts "1" from the number of reserved balls related to the normal symbol variation game. As with the special symbols, the subtraction corresponds to sliding the judgment information (random value) of the "relevant variable memory area" to the "fourth memory area" and then emptying the memory area of "1". Accordingly, the display of the normal symbol reserved indicator 27f also changes to a display mode corresponding to the number of reserved balls (from "blinking" to "on", or from "on" to "off"). Then, after subtracting "1" from the number of reserved balls related to the normal symbol variation game, the process proceeds to step S106-2-3.

(Step S106-2-3)
In step S106-2-3, the main CPU 101 judges whether the judgment information (random number value) is winning judgment information (random number value) by using the judgment information (random number value) extracted in the above-mentioned passing gate detection process and the normal symbol winning judgment table of Fig. 9. Then, when it is judged that the judgment information (random number value) is winning judgment information (random number value), the process proceeds to step S106-2-4.

(Step S106-2-4)
In step S106-2-4, the main CPU 101 judges whether the result of the normal symbol winning judgment process is a normal winning. If the result of the normal symbol winning judgment process is a normal winning, the process proceeds to step S106-2-5. If the result of the normal symbol winning judgment process is not a normal winning, the process proceeds to step S106-2-7.

(Step S106-2-5)
In step S106-2-5, the main CPU 101 determines "normal symbol A" as the normal symbol for the normal winning combination. Then, when the "normal symbol A" is determined, the process proceeds to step S106-2-6.

(Step S106-2-6)
In step S106-2-6, the main CPU 101 sets a normal symbol A designation command in the command transmission area in order to make the performance control board 200 recognize the determined normal symbol A. Then, when the normal symbol A designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S106-2-9.

(Step S106-2-7)
In step S106-2-7, the main CPU 101 determines "normal symbol B" as the normal symbol for the normal miss. Then, when the "normal symbol B" is determined, the process proceeds to step S106-2-8.

(Step S106-2-8)
In step S106-2-8, the main CPU 101 sets a normal symbol B designation command in the command transmission area in order to make the performance control board 200 recognize the determined normal symbol B. Then, when the normal symbol B designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S106-2-9.

(Step S106-2-9)
In step S106-2-9, if the main CPU 101 determines the normal symbol A in step S106-2-5, it determines the normal symbol variation pattern 1 from the normal symbol variation pattern table in Fig. 10(D), and if the main CPU 101 determines the normal symbol B in step S106-2-7, it determines the normal symbol variation pattern 2 from the normal symbol variation pattern table in Fig. 10(D). Then, when the normal symbol variation pattern is determined, the process proceeds to step S106-2-10.

(Step S106-2-10)
In step S106-2-10, the main CPU 101 sets a normal pattern variation pattern designation command in the command transmission area in order to transmit a command indicating the normal pattern variation pattern determined in step S106-2-9 to the performance control board 200. For example, if "normal pattern variation pattern 1" is determined in step S106-2-9, a normal pattern variation pattern designation command indicating "normal pattern variation pattern 1" is set. Then, when the normal pattern variation pattern designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S106-2-11.

(Step S106-2-11)
In step S106-2-11, the main CPU 101 sets the fluctuation time (see FIG. 10) corresponding to the normal symbol fluctuation pattern determined in step S106-2-9 in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. For example, if "normal symbol fluctuation pattern 1" is determined, the fluctuation time "3S" is set. Then, after setting the fluctuation time, the process proceeds to step S106-2-12.

(Step S106-2-12)
In step S106-2-12, the main CPU 101 sets the value "1" indicating that the symbol is changing in the normal symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "1" indicating that the symbol is changing is set in the normal symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding normal pattern change processing)
FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol fluctuation processing performed in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S106-4 of the normal symbol related processing).

(Step S106-4-1)
In step S106-4-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether the set variation time has elapsed in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. For example, when "normal symbol variation pattern 1" is determined and "3S" is set, it judges whether "3S" has elapsed. Then, if the normal symbol variation time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106-4-2, and if the normal symbol variation time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-4-2)
In step S106-4-2, the main CPU 101 sets the value "0" indicating that the normal symbol is stopped in the normal symbol status flag storage area of the main RAM 103. This allows the main CPU 101 to recognize that the normal symbol is stopped. Then, when the value "0" indicating that the normal symbol is stopped is set in the normal symbol status flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106-4-3.

(Step S106-4-3)
In step S106-4-3, the main CPU 101 judges whether the result of the judgment in step S106-2-3 in Fig. 29 is a normal winning. If it is a normal winning, the process proceeds to step S106-4-4. If it is not a normal winning, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-4-4)
In step S106-4-4, the main CPU 101 sets the value "2" indicating a normal winning combination in the normal symbol status flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "2" indicating a normal winning combination is set in the normal symbol status flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S106-4-5.

(Step S106-4-5)
In step S106-4-5, the main CPU 101 sets the second start port opening count counter in the main RAM 103 to "4". This causes the second start port 22 to open in the open/close manner shown in Fig. 9. Then, after setting the second start port opening count counter to "4", the process proceeds to step S106-4-6.

(Step S106-4-6)
In step S106-4-6, the main CPU 101 shifts to a normal symbol winning opening. For example, the normal symbol winning status storage area of the main RAM 103 stores the status in the normal symbol winning game, and if it is a normal symbol winning opening, "0" is set, if the second start hole 22 is opening, "1" is set, if it is an interval between openings, "2" is set, and if it is a normal symbol winning ending, "3" is set. Then, when the normal symbol winning opening is shifted to, the process shifts to step S106-4-7.

(Step S106-4-7)
In step S106-4-7, the main CPU 101 sets a time corresponding to the opening of a normal winning symbol (for example, "3S") in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. Then, when the time corresponding to the opening of a normal winning symbol is set, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding normal pattern winning process)
FIG. 31 is a flow chart showing the normal symbol winning process carried out in the main control board 100 (a subroutine of step S106-5 of the normal symbol related process).

(Step S106-5-1)
In step S106-5-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether a normal symbol winning opening is in progress. That is, it judges whether "0" indicating a normal symbol winning opening is set in the normal symbol winning status storage area of the main RAM 103. When the second start hole is opened in step S106-5-4 described later, the value of the normal symbol winning status storage area changes from "0" to "1". Then, if a normal symbol winning opening is in progress, the process proceeds to step S106-5-2, and if a normal symbol winning opening is not in progress, the process proceeds to step S106-5-5.

(Step S106-5-2)
In step S106-5-2, the main CPU 101 refers to the time management counter of the main RAM 103 and judges whether the time (for example, "3S") corresponding to the normal symbol winning opening set in step S106-4-7 of Fig. 30 has elapsed. If the time corresponding to the normal symbol winning opening has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106-5-3, and if the time corresponding to the normal symbol winning opening has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-5-3)
In step S106-5-3, the main CPU 101 sets the opening time of one time of the second start port 22 to "1.3 S" in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. Then, after setting the opening time of one time of the second start port 22 to "1.3 S", the process proceeds to step S106-5-4.

(Step S106-5-4)
In step S106-5-4, the main CPU 101 sets "1" indicating that the second start hole 22 is open in the normal symbol winning status storage area of the main RAM 103, and opens the second start hole 22 for 1.3S. Then, after setting "1" indicating that the second start hole 22 is open and opening the second start hole 22 for 1.3S, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-5-5)
In step S106-5-5, the main CPU 101 determines whether "1" indicating that the second start hole 22 is open is set in the normal symbol winning status storage area of the main RAM 103, that is, whether the second start hole 22 is open. If the second start hole 22 is open, the process proceeds to step S106-5-6, and if the second start hole 22 is not open, the process proceeds to step S106-5-12.

(Step S106-5-6)
In step S106-5-6, main CPU 101 refers to the time management counter in main RAM 103 to determine whether the opening time of second start port 22 "1.3 S" has elapsed. If the opening time of second start port 22 "1.3 S" has elapsed, processing proceeds to step S106-5-7, and if the opening time of second start port 22 "1.3 S" has not elapsed, processing proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt processing.

(Step S106-5-7)
In step S106-5-7, the main CPU 101 subtracts "1" from the value of the second start hole opening count counter provided in the main RAM 103. Then, after subtracting "1" from the value of the second start hole opening count counter, the main CPU 101 proceeds to step S106-5-8.

(Step S106-5-8)
In step S106-5-8, the main CPU 101 determines whether the value of the second start port opening counter after subtracting "1" in step S106-5-7 is "0". If the value after subtraction is "0", the process proceeds to step S106-5-9, and if the value after subtraction is not "0", the process proceeds to step S106-5-10.

(Step S106-5-9)
In step S106-5-9, the main CPU 101 sets "3" indicating the normal symbol winning ending in the normal symbol winning state storage area of the main RAM 103, and transitions to the normal symbol winning ending. Furthermore, the main CPU 101 sets the time corresponding to the normal symbol winning ending (for example, "2S") in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. Then, after performing the process related to the normal symbol ending, the process transitions to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-5-10)
In step S106-5-10, the main CPU 101 sets "2" indicating the interval between openings in the normal symbol winning state storage area of the main RAM 103, and transitions to the interval between openings. Then, after setting "2" indicating the interval between openings and transitioning to the interval between openings, the process transitions to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-5-11)
In step S106-5-11, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not "2", which indicates the interval between openings, is set in the normal symbol winning state storage area of the main RAM 103. If "2", which indicates the interval between openings, is set, the process proceeds to step S106-5-13, and if "2", which indicates the interval between openings, is not set, the process proceeds to step S106-5-16.

(Step S106-5-12)
In step S106-5-12, main CPU 101 refers to the time management counter in main RAM 103 to determine whether the interval time between the openings of second start port 22 has elapsed. If the interval time between the openings of second start port 22 has elapsed, processing proceeds to step S106-5-14, and if the interval time between the openings of second start port 22 has not elapsed, processing proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt processing.

(Step S106-5-13)
In step S106-5-13, the main CPU 101 sets the opening time of one time of the second start port 22 to "1.3 S" in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. Then, after setting the opening time of one time of the second start port 22 to "1.3 S", the process proceeds to step S106-5-15.

(Step S106-5-14)
In step S106-5-14, the main CPU 101 sets "1" indicating that the second start hole 22 is open in the normal symbol winning status storage area of the main RAM 103, and opens the second start hole 22 for 1.3S. Then, when "1" indicating that the second start hole 22 is open is set and the second start hole 22 is opened for 1.3S, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-5-15)
In step S106-5-15, the main CPU 101 refers to the time management counter of the main RAM 103 and judges whether the time (e.g., "2S") corresponding to the normal symbol winning ending set in the above-mentioned step S106-5-9 has elapsed. If the time (e.g., "2S") corresponding to the normal symbol winning ending has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106-5-16. If the time (e.g., "2S") corresponding to the normal symbol winning ending has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S106-5-16)
In step S106-5-16, the main CPU 101 sets the value "0" indicating that the reels are stopped in the normal symbol status flag storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, when the value "0" indicating that the reels are stopped is set in the normal symbol status flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S107 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding control processing performed by sub-CPU 201)
The control processing performed by the sub-CPU 201 will be described with reference to Figures 32 to 35. The control programs shown in the flowcharts of Figures 32 to 35 are stored in the sub-ROM 202, and the sub-CPU 201 reads out the control programs from the sub-ROM 202 and performs the control processing in accordance with the read out control programs.

(Step S200)
In step S200, the sub-CPU 201 judges whether the pachinko game machine 1 is in a power outage state. If the pachinko game machine 1 is in a power outage state, the sub-CPU 201 repeats the process of step S200, and if the pachinko game machine 1 is not in a power outage state, the sub-CPU 201 proceeds to step S201. If the pachinko game machine 1 is in a power outage state, the sub-CPU 201 can execute the process by using a backup power source (not shown).

(Step S201)
In step S201, the sub-CPU 201 performs an initial setting process to initialize the values of internally provided registers, etc. Then, when the initial setting process ends, the process proceeds to step S202.

(Step S202)
In step S202, the sub-CPU 201 sets the CTC. That is, it sets the CTC (counter timer circuit) that has a function of generating a pulse output at a constant period and a function of measuring time, and sets the time constant register of the CTC so that the performance control board timer interrupt processing described later is performed periodically every 4 ms. Then, after setting the CTC, the process proceeds to step S203.

(Step S203)
In step S203, the sub-CPU 201 inhibits the interruption of the performance control board timer interrupt process that periodically interrupts the performance control board main process and is executed. Then, when the interruption is inhibited, the process proceeds to step S204.

(Step S204)
In step S204, the sub-CPU 201 updates the random numbers for effect. Then, when the update process of the random numbers for effect is completed, the process proceeds to step S205.

(Step S205)
In step S205, the sub-CPU 201 allows the interruption of the performance control board timer interrupt process, which is executed by periodically interrupting the performance control board main process. Then, when the interruption is allowed, the process moves to step S203 again, and thereafter, steps S203 to S205 are looped.

(Regarding the performance control board timer interrupt processing)
33 is a flowchart showing the performance control board timer interruption process performed in the performance control board 200. This process is a process that is executed by periodically (for example, every 4 ms) interrupting the performance control board main process described above.

(Step S300)
In step S300, the sub CPU 201 saves the contents of the registers in a stack area. After saving the contents of the registers in the stack area, the process proceeds to step S301.

(Step S301)
In step S301, the sub-CPU 201 performs a process of updating a timer managed by the performance control board 200. Then, after updating the timer, the process proceeds to step S302.

(Step S302)
In step S302, the sub-CPU 201 performs input processing of the operation device. For example, when the effect button 14 is operated, operation information is input from the effect button detection SW 14a, when the effect lever 15 is operated, operation information is input from the effect lever detection SW 15a, and when the cross key button 16 is operated, operation information is input from the cross key detection SW 16a. When the sub-CPU 201 receives this operation information, it controls the image display device 26, the speaker 10, etc. to execute the effect. Then, when the input processing of the operation device is completed, the process proceeds to step S303.

(Step S303)
In step S303, the sub CPU 201 performs a main command receiving process shown in Fig. 34 and Fig. 35. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 34 and Fig. 35. Then, when the main command receiving process ends, the process proceeds to step S304.

(Step S304)
In step S304, the sub-CPU 201 performs a process of transmitting a sub-command. A sub-command is a command set in the main command receiving process of Figs. 34 and 35 described later, and in this process, the sub-command is transmitted to the image and sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, the image and sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c that have received the sub-command control the display, sound, light emission, and drive effects corresponding to the sub-command. Then, once the sub-command has been transmitted, the process proceeds to step S305.

(Step S305)
In step S305, the sub-CPU 201 restores the contents saved in the stack area in step S300 to the register. Then, when the contents saved in the stack area are restored to the register, the performance control board timer interrupt process is terminated.

(Regarding main command reception processing)
FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing main command receiving process 1/2 performed in the performance control board 200 (a subroutine of step S301 of the performance control board timer interrupt process).

(Step S301-1)
In step S301-1, the sub-CPU 201 determines whether a power-related information command has been received. Examples of power-related information commands include the power-on command and the power-recovery command described above. If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-2. If any of these commands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-4.

(Step S301-2)
In step S301-2, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing when a power-related information command is received. For example, when a power-on command is received, a corresponding sub-command is set to notify "power is being turned on" via the light-emitting device 9, the speaker 10, and the image display device 26, and when a power-recovery command is received, a corresponding sub-command is set to notify "power is being restored" via the light-emitting device 9, the speaker 10, and the image display device 26. After completing this processing, the process proceeds to step S301-3.

(Step S301-3)
In step S301-3, the sub-CPU 201 sets a power-related sub-command in the sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the power-related sub-command to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, when this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-4)
In step S301-4, the sub-CPU 201 judges whether an error-related information command has been received. Examples of error-related information commands include a magnetic sensor error (major error) that is sent when an illegal magnetism is detected, and a tray full error (minor error) that is sent when more than a predetermined amount of game balls are stored in the lower tray 5b. If an error-related information command has been received, the process proceeds to step S301-5. If any of these commands has not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-7.

(Step S301-5)
In step S301-5, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing when receiving an error-related information command. For example, if a serious error is received, a corresponding sub-command is set to notify the error using the entire display area of the image display device 26, and if a minor error is received, a corresponding sub-command is set to notify the error using a part of the display area of the image display device 26. After completing this processing, the process proceeds to step S301-6.

(Step S301-6)
In step S301-6, the sub-CPU 201 sets an error-related sub-command in the sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the error-related sub-command to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, when this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-7)
In step S301-7, the sub-CPU 201 judges whether a start port related information command has been received. The start port related information command includes the above-mentioned first start port winning command, second start port winning command, first start port subtraction command, second start port subtraction command, and reserved memory area designation command. If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-8. If any of these commands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-10.

(Step S301-8)
In step S301-8, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing when receiving a start-hole related information command. For example, when a command indicating a win is received, a corresponding sub-command is set to update (add) the "number reservation" or "reserved icon", and when a command indicating subtraction is received, a corresponding sub-command is set to update (subtract) the "number reservation", the "relevant variable icon" and the "reserved icon". In addition, a corresponding sub-command is set to make the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c recognize the current storage status of the judgment information storage area (reserved storage area) of the main RAM 103. Then, when the processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S301-9.

(Step S301-9)
In step S301-9, the sub-CPU 201 sets the start hole related sub-command in the sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the start hole related sub-command to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, when this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-10)
In step S301-10, the sub-CPU 201 judges whether or not a variation pattern related information command has been received. The variation pattern related information command may be the special symbol variation pattern designation command described above. If the command has been received, the process proceeds to step S301-11. If the command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-13.

(Step S301-11)
In step S301-11, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing when receiving a variation pattern related information command. For example, when a special symbol variation pattern designation command is received, a variation performance pattern is determined from a variation performance pattern determination table (not shown). In the variation performance pattern determination table, one or more variation performance patterns are associated with one special symbol variation pattern. For example, for the "normal variation" (6S) of "variation pattern 2", one corresponding variation performance pattern (6S) is prepared, and for the "super reach" (30S) of "variation pattern 4", multiple corresponding variation performance patterns (30S) are prepared. Then, when "variation pattern 4" is received, any one of the multiple prepared variation performance patterns is determined. Note that the multiple prepared variation performance patterns each have different performance contents, so multiple performances can be executed for one variation pattern. Then, when the processing is completed, the processing is shifted to step S301-12.

(Step S301-12)
In step S301-12, the sub-CPU 201 sets the change pattern related sub-command in the sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the change pattern related sub-command to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, when this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-13)
In step S301-13, the sub-CPU 201 judges whether a symbol designation related information command has been received. Symbol designation related information commands include a special symbol designation command for a big win, a special symbol designation command for a small win, and a special symbol designation command for a loss. If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-14. If any of these commands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-16.

(Step S301-14)
In step S301-14, the sub-CPU 201 performs a process when receiving a symbol designation related information command. For example, when a symbol designation related information command for a big win is received, a symbol combination (e.g., "777") for the sub-symbols corresponding to the big win is determined, when a symbol designation related information command for a small win is received, a symbol combination (e.g., "111" or "222") for the sub-symbols corresponding to the small win is determined, and when a symbol designation related information command for a loss is received, a symbol combination (e.g., "524") for the sub-symbols corresponding to a loss is determined. In addition, when the symbol is the special symbol A, any of "444", "666", and "888" is determined for the sub-symbols, when the symbol is the special symbol B, any of "333", "444", "555", "666", and "888" is determined for the sub-symbols, and when the symbol is the special symbol C, "777" is determined for the sub-symbols. In addition, if the special symbol D is selected, the sub-symbol is set to "222", if the special symbol E is selected, either "111" or "222", if the special symbol F is selected, either "222", if the special symbol G is selected, either "111" or "222". After completing this process, the process proceeds to step S301-15.

(Step S301-15)
In step S301-15, the sub-CPU 201 sets the sub-command related to designation in the sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the sub-command related to designation to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, when this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-16)
In step S301-16, the sub-CPU 201 judges whether or not the symbol stop related information command has been received. If the symbol stop related information command has been received, the process proceeds to step S301-17. If the symbol stop related information command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-19.

(Step S301-17)
In step S301-17, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing when receiving the symbol stop related information command. Specifically, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing for stopping the sub-symbols being variably displayed. Then, when the processing is completed, the process proceeds to step S301-18.

(Step S301-18)
In step S301-18, the sub-CPU 201 sets the symbol stop related sub-command in the sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the symbol stop related sub-command to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, when the process is completed, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding main command reception processing)
FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing main command receiving process 2/2 performed in the performance control board 200 (a subroutine of step S301 of the performance control board timer interrupt process).

(Step S301-19)
In step S301-19, the sub-CPU 201 judges whether or not a game status related information command has been received. Examples of game status related information commands include a game status command (normal) and a game status command (time-saving). If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-20. If any of these commands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-22.

(Step S301-20)
In step S301-20, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing upon reception of a game state related information command. Specifically, when a game state command (normal) is received, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing to determine the effect (background, etc.) corresponding to the normal game state, and when a game state command (time-saving) is received, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing to determine the effect (background, etc.) corresponding to the time-saving game state. Then, when this processing is completed, the process proceeds to step S301-21.

(Step S301-21)
In step S301-21, the sub-CPU 201 sets a game status related sub-command in a sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the game status related sub-command to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, after completing this process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-22)
In step S301-22, the sub CPU 201 determines whether or not a demo command has been received, and if so, proceeds to step S301-23, whereas if not, proceeds to step S301-25.

(Step S301-23)
In step S301-23, the sub-CPU 201 performs a process for receiving a demo command. Specifically, the sub-CPU 201 performs a process for starting a demo effect. Then, when the process ends, the process proceeds to step S301-24.

(Step S301-24)
In step S301-24, the sub-CPU 201 sets a demo-related sub-command in the sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the demo-related sub-command to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. As a result, the image/sound control unit 200b that receives the sub-command displays a demo movie image (such as a company logo) on the image display device 26, and the light emission drive control unit 200c causes the light-emitting device 9 to emit light in the light emission pattern during the demonstration. Then, when this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-25)
In step S301-25, the sub-CPU 201 judges whether a jackpot-related information command has been received. Examples of jackpot-related information commands include a jackpot opening command, a jackpot ending command, and other commands related to jackpots. If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-26. If any of these commands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-28.

(Step S301-26)
In step S301-26, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing when receiving a jackpot related information command. Specifically, when a jackpot opening command is received, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing to determine the presentation (background, etc.) corresponding to the jackpot opening, and when a jackpot ending command is received, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing to determine the presentation (background, etc.) corresponding to the jackpot ending. Then, when the processing is completed, the process proceeds to step S301-27.

(Step S301-27)
In step S301-27, the sub-CPU 201 sets the big win related sub-command in the sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the big win related sub-command to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, when this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-28)
In step S301-28, the sub-CPU 201 judges whether a small win related information (including a specific area passing command) command has been received. Examples of small win related information commands include a small win opening command, a small win ending command, and other commands related to small wins. In addition, a specific area passing command indicating that the specific area detection SW 32c has detected the passage of the game ball in a small win is also included. If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-29, and if any of these commands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-31.

(Step S301-29)
In step S301-29, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing when receiving a small win related information command. Specifically, when a small win opening command is received, a process is performed to determine the presentation (background, etc.) corresponding to the small win opening, and when a small win ending command is received, a process is performed to determine the presentation (background, etc.) corresponding to the small win ending. Also, when a specific area passing command is received, a process is performed to determine the presentation such as "V Win!". Then, when the process is completed, the process proceeds to step S301-30.

(Step S301-30)
In step S301-30, the sub-CPU 201 sets a small win related sub-command in the sub-command transmission area to transmit the small win related sub-command to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. Then, when the process is completed, the process proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-31)
In step S301-31, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing corresponding to other received commands. For example, when a setting value change command, a setting value information command, a setting value confirmation command, or a setting value confirmation end command is received, the sub-CPU 201 performs processing corresponding to these received commands. Then, when the processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S302 of the performance control board timer interrupt processing.

Here, we will describe some examples of the various effects that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment.

(Preview performance)
The pre-reading performance is a performance that is executed based on the result of the pre-reading performance, which is executed prior to the special symbol hit determination process in the special symbol change start process at the timing when the game ball enters the first start hole 21 or the second start hole 22 and performs a pre-determination process (a prize winning determination process in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18). If the pre-reading performance is not installed, for example, when the game ball enters the first start hole 21, the determination information (random number value) is acquired and stored, and then the special symbol hit determination process is executed in the special symbol change start process, so even if the determination information (random number value) is stored in the "fourth memory area", it is not determined whether or not it is a jackpot until the determination information (random number value) is transferred to the "change memory area". Therefore, even if the "jackpot" determination information (random number value) is acquired, it is not possible to execute a performance that increases the expectation of a jackpot at a stage before the determination information (random number value) is transferred to the "change memory area". However, if a pre-reading effect is installed, for example, a "pre-judgment process (judgment process at the time of winning)" can be performed to determine whether it is a "hit" or a "miss", and then continuous effects can be executed over multiple fluctuations (including the fluctuations transferred to the variable memory area) until the judgment information (random number value) is transferred to the "variable memory area". This makes it possible to increase the anticipation of a "jackpot" from a stage before the judgment information (random number value) is transferred to the "variable memory area".

A specific example of the above-mentioned look-ahead performance is the "reserved ball look-ahead performance." The "reserved ball look-ahead performance" is a performance that mainly uses the reserved ball image displayed in the variable icon display area 26o and the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j, and the variable icon display area 26o and the second start port first reserved ball image display area 26k to the second start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n. For example, when the judgment information (random number value) is stored up to the above-mentioned "third memory area," if a game ball enters the first start port 21, the judgment information (random number value) is stored in the "fourth memory area," and then a pre-judgment process is performed. Then, based on the judgment result of the pre-judgment process, if it is judged that the reserved ball look-ahead performance is to be performed, a pre-judgment reserved ball image different from the normal reserved image is displayed in the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j. The pre-read reserved ball image can be displayed in multiple types and in multiple stages, such as "white flashing", "blue", "green", "red", "gold", and "rainbow". If the result of the pre-judgment process is a "jackpot", any of "white flashing", "blue", "green", "red", "gold", and "rainbow" can be displayed. If the result of the pre-judgment process is a "miss", any of "white flashing", "blue", "green", "red", and "gold" can be displayed. The "rainbow" can be selected only in the case of a "jackpot", and "red" and "gold" are easily selected in the case of a "jackpot", while "white flashing" and "blue" are easily selected in the case of a "miss", thereby increasing the expectation of a "red" or "gold" jackpot. In addition, when the ball enters the ball, it is "white flashing", but it is possible to change to a reserved ball image with a high expectation of a jackpot, such as "blue" or "green", each time "one-variation play" is performed, and it is also possible to display "gold" from the time the ball enters the ball.

In addition, a specific example of another type of the above-mentioned look-ahead performance is a "zone performance." The "zone performance" is a performance that mainly uses the image display device 26. For example, when the judgment information (random number value) is stored up to the above-mentioned "third memory area," if a game ball enters the first starting hole 21, the judgment information (random number value) is stored in the "fourth memory area," and then a pre-judgment process is performed. Then, if it is determined based on the judgment result of the pre-judgment process that a zone performance is to be performed, for example, in the next pattern change game, the image display device 26 performs a performance encouraging the player to enter, such as "If the special pattern is lined up, enter the XX zone!", and then the special pattern is lined up to enter the "XX zone," and the "XX zone" performance is performed until the judgment information (random number value) stored in the above-mentioned "fourth memory area" is transferred to the "change memory area." During the execution of this "XX zone" performance, the image display device 26 displays a caption such as "In the XX zone." Furthermore, the "zone effect" is likely to be executed if the pre-determination process determines that there is a "jackpot" and is unlikely to be executed if there is a "miss," so if it is executed, there can be high hopes that one jackpot will be awarded.

In addition, a specific example of another effect of the above-mentioned pre-reading effect is "Chance Eyes Continuous Notice". "Chance Eyes Continuous Notice" is an effect using the left decorative pattern image 26a, the middle decorative pattern image 26b, and the right decorative pattern image 26c displayed mainly on the image display device 26. For example, when the judgment information (random number value) is stored up to the above-mentioned "third memory area", if a game ball enters the first starting hole 21, the judgment information (random number value) is stored in the "fourth memory area" and then a pre-judgment process is performed. Then, when it is judged based on the judgment result of the pre-judgment process that a chance eye continuous effect is to be performed, for example, a combination of decorative pattern images of the same color is stopped in the confirmation display of the pattern change game corresponding to the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "first memory area", the confirmation display of the pattern change game corresponding to the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "second memory area", and the confirmation display of the pattern change game corresponding to the judgment information (random number value) stored in the "third memory area". For example, the decorative pattern image is composed of "333" and "777" in red, "111" and "555" in green, and "222", "444", "666", and "888" in blue, and by displaying combinations of only red, such as "337" and "773", combinations of only green, such as "115" and "551", and combinations of only blue, such as "246" and "628", over multiple variations, it creates an expectation that a jackpot will be awarded in the subsequent pattern variation game. In the case of a "jackpot", it is easy to select a combination of only red, and in the case of a "miss", it is easy to select a combination of only blue, increasing the expectation of a jackpot when a combination of only red is displayed.

(Pseudo consecutive announcement)
The pseudo consecutive announcement is a presentation that mainly uses the left decorative pattern image 26a, the center decorative pattern image 26b, and the right decorative pattern image 26c displayed on the image display device 26, and the symbols dedicated to the pseudo consecutive, and in a "game of one change", the temporary stop display of the decorative patterns is repeatedly performed to make it look as if multiple changes are occurring. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the pseudo consecutive can be performed "2", "3", or "4" times, and the more times it is performed, the higher the expectation of a "big win" (in this embodiment, "4" times is a "big win"). As a specific example of the performance, for example, "5" is temporarily displayed as the left decorative pattern image 26a, "6" is temporarily displayed as the right decorative pattern image 26c, and a "pseudo consecutive exclusive pattern (e.g., "NEXT")" is temporarily displayed as the center decorative pattern image 26b, and all decorative pattern images are displayed in a variable manner again (at this point, pseudo consecutive "2" times), and again, "5" is temporarily displayed as the left decorative pattern image 26a, "6" is temporarily displayed as the right decorative pattern image 26c, and a "pseudo consecutive exclusive pattern (e.g., "NEXT")" is temporarily displayed as the center decorative pattern image 26b, and , and all decorative pattern images are displayed in a variable manner (at this point, pseudo consecutive "3"times; the same applies for pseudo consecutive "4" times thereafter). For example, if, in the "2" provisional stop display, a "5" is temporarily displayed as the left decorative pattern image 26a and a "5" is temporarily displayed as the right decorative pattern image 26c, this will result in pseudo consecutive "2"times; and if, in the "2" provisional stop display, a "5" is temporarily displayed as the left decorative pattern image 26a and a "6" is temporarily displayed as the right decorative pattern image 26c, this will result in pseudo consecutive "3" times (the same applies for pseudo consecutive "4" times thereafter). In addition, once a reach has been reached, a so-called "pseudo-consecutive streak" can be temporarily displayed as the middle decorative pattern image 26b (e.g., "NEXT"), or, for example, when the fluctuation starts after the "1st" temporary stop display, a notice (pattern stop notice) can be given that a "pseudo-consecutive streak exclusive pattern (e.g., "NEXT")" will be temporarily displayed in the middle decorative pattern image 26b, and at that point, a pseudo-consecutive streak of "3" or more times is confirmed.

(Regarding control processing performed by the image/sound CPU 204)
Next, the control processing performed by the image/sound CPU 204 will be described with reference to Figures 36 to 38. Figures 36 and 37 show the image/sound control unit main processing performed by the image/sound CPU 204, and Figure 38 shows the image/sound control unit timer interrupt processing which is performed by periodically (every 33 ms) interrupting the image/sound control unit main processing.

(Step S400-1)
In step S400-1, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether any of the subcommands have been received. In other words, it determines whether any of the subcommands have been received from the performance control unit 200a. The subcommands are received in the image/sound control unit timer interrupt process of FIG. 38. If any of the subcommands have been received, the process proceeds to step S400-2, and if any of the subcommands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S400-5.

(Step S400-2)
In step S400-2, the image/sound CPU 204 performs image/sound setting processing. Specifically, processing is performed to set an image and sound corresponding to the received subcommand. When the image and sound corresponding to the subcommand are set, the set image is generated in an image generation process in step S400-7 described below, and the set sound is generated in a sound generation process in step S400-8, and is output from the image display device 26 and the speaker 10 in step S400-9. Then, when the image/sound setting processing is completed, the process proceeds to step S400-3.

(Step S400-3)
In step S400-3, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether or not a start port related subcommand has been received. If a start port related subcommand has been received, the process proceeds to step S400-4. If a start port related subcommand has not been received, the process proceeds to step S400-5.

(Step S400-4)
In step S400-4, the image/sound CPU 204 performs a process of updating a reserved number counter (not shown) provided in the image/sound control unit 200b. That is, the image/sound control unit 200b can also recognize the storage status of the judgment information storage area (reserved storage area) of the main RAM 103 by the start-hole related subcommand transmitted from the performance control unit 200a. That is, the reserved number counter provided in the image/sound control unit 200b can also recognize "-" which is not stored in any reserved storage area, "0" which is stored only in the variable storage area, "1" which is stored up to the first storage area, "2" which is stored up to the second storage area, "3" which is stored up to the third storage area, and "4" which is stored up to the fourth storage area. Note that the reserved number counter may be provided with a dedicated RAM or may use the VRAM 207. Then, when the reserved number counter is updated, the process proceeds to step S400-5.

(Step S400-5)
In step S400-5, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether a frame switching flag is ON in a flag management area (not shown) provided in the image/sound control unit 200b. The frame switching flag is turned ON by the image/sound control unit timer interrupt process of FIG. 38, so that it is turned ON every 33 ms. In other words, one frame of image is displayed every 33 ms in the image display device 26. The management area for managing the frame switching flag may be provided in a dedicated RAM, or the VRAM 207 may be used. If the frame switching flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S400-6, and if the frame switching flag is not ON, the process proceeds to step S400-1.

(Step S400-6)
In step S400-6, the image/sound CPU 204 performs processing to turn the frame switch flag OFF. Then, after turning the frame switch flag OFF, the process proceeds to step S400-7.

(Step S400-7)
In step S400-7, the image/sound CPU 204 performs the image generation process shown in Fig. 37. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 37. Then, when the image generation process ends, the process proceeds to step S400-8.

(Step S400-8)
In step S400-8, the image/sound CPU 204 performs sound generation processing. Specifically, sound information for one frame is generated based on the contents set in step S400-2. In this way, the image and sound for one frame are generated. Then, when the sound generation processing is completed, the process proceeds to step S400-9.

(Step S400-9)
In step S400-9, the image/sound CPU 204 performs processing to output the image and sound for the one generated frame. As a result, the image for the one generated frame is displayed on the image display device 26, and the sound for the one generated frame is output from the speaker 10. Then, when the output processing is completed, the process proceeds to step S400-1.

(Image generation process)
FIG. 37 is a flow chart showing the image generating process performed in the image and sound control section 200b (a subroutine of step S400-7 of the image and sound control section main process).

(Step S400-7-1)
In step S400-7-1, the image/sound CPU 204 performs a process of incrementing a frame update counter (not shown) provided in the image/sound control unit 200b by "1". The frame update counter is a counter that is incremented by "1" every 33 ms. The frame update counter may be provided in a dedicated RAM, or the VRAM 207 may be used. After incrementing the frame update counter by "1", the process proceeds to step S400-7-2.

(Step S400-7-2)
In step S400-7-2, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether the value of the frame update counter is "3". In other words, it determines whether 3 frames, or 99 ms, have passed. If the value of the frame update counter is "3", the process proceeds to step S400-7-3, and if the value of the frame update counter is not "3", the process proceeds to step S400-7-9.

(Step S400-7-3)
In step S400-7-3, the image/sound CPU 204 performs a process of reading the reserved number counter. That is, it reads out whether the reserved number counter is "-" which is not stored in any reserved memory area, "0" which is stored only in the variable memory area, "1" which is stored up to the first memory area, "2" which is stored up to the second memory area, "3" which is stored up to the third memory area, or "4" which is stored up to the fourth memory area. Then, after reading the reserved number counter, the process proceeds to step S400-7-4.

(Step S400-7-4)
In step S400-7-4, the image/sound CPU 204 judges whether the pending number counter has been updated. That is, it judges whether the pending number counter has been updated within 99 ms. Here, "updated" includes not only the pending number counter value being changed, but also the pending number counter value not being changed, but both "increasing" and "decreasing", resulting in "±0". That is, the pending number counter can also store an update history, and the image/sound CPU 204 can recognize that the pending number counter has been updated if there is an update history, and can recognize that the pending number counter has not been updated if there is no update history. Then, if the pending number counter has been updated, the process proceeds to step S400-7-5, and if the pending number counter has not been updated, the process proceeds to step S400-7-8.

(Step S400-7-5)
In step S400-7-5, the image/sound CPU 204 judges whether the value of the pending number counter has changed since the previous reading. That is, it judges whether the value of the pending number counter has changed during 99 ms, or whether the value of the pending number counter has not changed but both "increases" and "decreases" have occurred, resulting in "±0". If the value of the pending number counter has changed, the process proceeds to step S400-7-6, and if the value of the pending number counter has not changed, the process proceeds to step S400-7-7.

(Step S400-7-6)
In step S400-7-6, the image/sound CPU 204 determines the display content of the "number reserved" based on the changed value without skipping the change process. Also, the display content of the "reserved icon" is determined based on the changed value without skipping the change process. Here, the "change process" refers to the change process of the reserved number counter over 99 ms. For example, if the reserved number counter changes from "1" to "2" over 99 ms, the change process is not skipped and the "number reserved" is updated from "1" to "2" and displayed, and one new "reserved icon" is displayed. Then, once the display content has been determined based on the changed value, the process proceeds to step S400-7-8.

(Step S400-7-7)
In step S400-7-7, the image/sound CPU 204 omits the change process for the "number reservation" and determines the display contents with the value at the time of the previous read. Also, for the "reserved icon", the change process is not omitted and the display contents are determined with the value after the change. For example, if the reserved number counter changes from "1" to "2" in 99 ms and then changes from "2" to "1" (when both the start hole winning and the start of the pattern change game occur), the "number reservation" does not display "1" → "2" → "1", but maintains the display of "1" (omitting the change process), and the "reserved icon" increases by one and decreases by one (not omitting the change process). Then, when the display contents are determined with the value at the time of the previous read, the process proceeds to step S400-7-8.

(Step S400-7-8)
In step S400-7-8, the image/sound CPU 204 performs processing to clear the frame update counter. That is, after completing the determination of the display contents related to the hold, which is performed every 99 ms, the image/sound CPU 204 performs processing to set the frame update counter to "0." Then, after clearing the frame update counter, the process proceeds to step S400-7-9.

(Step S400-7-9)
In step S400-7-9, the image/sound CPU 204 performs image generation processing. That is, when the processing of steps S400-7-3 to S400-7-8 is completed and the processing reaches this step, the image/sound CPU 204 performs image generation processing that reflects the processing contents of the steps. Then, when the image generation processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S400-8.

In FIG. 37, when the frame update counter reaches "3", the display contents for the number hold and hold icon are determined, but the value of the frame update counter that determines the display contents can be set arbitrarily. For example, it may be greater than "3" or less than "3". For example, when the frame update counter reaches "1", the display contents for the number hold and hold icon may be determined. In other words, the display contents for the number hold and hold icon may be determined every 33 ms.

(Image and sound control unit timer interrupt processing)
38 is a flowchart showing image/sound control unit timer interrupt processing performed in the image/sound CPU 204. This processing is executed by periodically (for example, every 33 ms) interrupting the above-mentioned image/sound control unit main processing.

(Step S500)
In step S500, the image/sound CPU 204 performs a process of receiving various sub-commands. That is, the image/sound CPU 204 performs a process of receiving various sub-commands from the performance control unit 200a. Then, when various sub-commands are received, the process proceeds to step S501.

(Step S501)
In step S501, the image/sound CPU 204 performs processing to update the frame counter, etc. Then, after updating the frame counter, etc., the process proceeds to step S502.

(Step S502)
In step S502, the image/sound CPU 204 sets the frame switch flag to ON, and then ends the image/sound control unit timer interrupt process.

(Regarding control processing performed by the light emission drive CPU 208)
Next, the control processing performed by the light emission drive CPU 208 will be described with reference to Figures 39 to 41. Figures 39 and 40 show the light emission drive control unit main processing performed by the light emission drive CPU 208, and Figure 41 shows the light emission drive control unit timer interrupt processing which is performed by periodically (every 33 ms) interrupting the light emission drive control unit main processing.

(Step S600-1)
In step S600-1, the light emission drive CPU 208 judges whether various sub-commands have been received. In other words, it judges whether any sub-commands have been received from the performance control unit 200a. The sub-commands are received in the light emission drive control unit timer interrupt process of FIG. 41. Then, if various sub-commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S600-2, and if various sub-commands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S600-5.

(Step S600-2)
In step S600-2, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs light emission and drive setting processing. Specifically, it sets the light emission pattern of the light emitting device 9 etc. corresponding to the received subcommand, and sets the drive pattern of the movable body 28. When the light emission pattern of the light emitting device 9 etc. corresponding to the subcommand is set, light emission is controlled according to the light emission pattern set in step S600-7 described later, and when the drive pattern of the movable body 28 corresponding to the subcommand is set, drive is controlled according to the drive pattern set in step S600-8 described later. Then, when the light emission and drive setting processing is completed, the process proceeds to step S600-3.

(Step S600-3)
In step S600-3, the light emission driving CPU 208 judges whether or not the start port related subcommand has been received. If the start port related subcommand has been received, the process proceeds to step S600-4. If the start port related subcommand has not been received, the process proceeds to step S600-5.

(Step S600-4)
In step S600-4, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs a process of updating a reserved number counter (not shown) provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c. That is, the light emission drive control unit 200c can also recognize the storage status of the judgment information storage area (reserved storage area) of the main RAM 103 by the start-hole related subcommand transmitted from the performance control unit 200a. That is, the reserved number counter provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c can also recognize "-" which is not stored in any reserved storage area, "0" which is stored only in the variable storage area, "1" which is stored up to the first storage area, "2" which is stored up to the second storage area, "3" which is stored up to the third storage area, and "4" which is stored up to the fourth storage area. Note that the reserved number counter may be provided with a dedicated RAM or may use the light emission drive RAM 210. Then, when the reserved number counter is updated, the process proceeds to step S600-5.

(Step S600-5)
In step S600-5, the light emission drive CPU 208 judges whether the frame switching flag is ON in a flag management area (not shown) provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c. The frame switching flag is turned ON by the light emission drive control unit timer interrupt processing of FIG. 41, so that it is turned ON every 33 ms. As a result, for example, in the sub-reservation display, the display is updated every 33 ms. The management area for managing the frame switching flag may be provided with a dedicated RAM, or the light emission drive RAM 210 may be used. Then, if the frame switching flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S600-6, and if the frame switching flag is not ON, the process proceeds to step S600-1.

(Step S600-6)
In step S600-6, the light emission driving CPU 208 performs processing to turn off the frame switching flag. Then, after turning off the frame switching flag, the process proceeds to step S600-7.

(Step S600-7)
In step S600-7, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs the light emission control process shown in Fig. 40. This process will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 40. Then, when the light emission control process ends, the process proceeds to step S600-8.

(Step S600-8)
In step S600-8, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs drive control processing. Specifically, if a drive pattern for the movable body 28 is set in step S600-2, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs drive control for the movable body 28. Then, when the drive control processing ends, the process proceeds to step S600-1.

(Light Emission Control Processing)
FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the light emission control process performed in the light emission drive controller 200c (a subroutine of step S600-7 of the light emission drive controller main process).

(Step S600-7-1)
In step S60-7-1, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs a process of incrementing a frame update counter (not shown) provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c by "1". The frame update counter is a counter that is incremented by "1" every 33 ms. Note that the frame update counter may be provided with a dedicated RAM, or the light emission drive RAM 210 may be used. Then, after incrementing the frame update counter by "1", the process proceeds to step S600-7-2.

(Step S600-7-2)
In step S600-7-2, the light emission driving CPU 208 determines whether the value of the frame update counter is "3". In other words, it determines whether 3 frames, or 99 ms, have elapsed. If the value of the frame update counter is "3", the process proceeds to step S600-7-3, and if the value of the frame update counter is not "3", the process proceeds to step S600-7-9.

(Step S600-7-3)
In step S600-7-3, the light emission driving CPU 208 performs a process of reading the reserved number counter. That is, it reads out whether the reserved number counter is "-" which is not stored in any reserved memory area, "0" which is stored only in the variable memory area, "1" which is stored up to the first memory area, "2" which is stored up to the second memory area, "3" which is stored up to the third memory area, or "4" which is stored up to the fourth memory area. Then, after reading the reserved number counter, the process proceeds to step S600-7-4.

(Step S600-7-4)
In step S600-7-4, the light emission drive CPU 208 judges whether the pending number counter has been updated. That is, it judges whether the pending number counter has been updated within 99 ms. Here, "update" includes not only the pending number counter value being changed, but also the pending number counter value not being changed, but both "increasing" and "decreasing", resulting in "±0". That is, the pending number counter can also store an update history, and the light emission drive CPU 208 can recognize that the pending number counter has been updated if there is an update history, and can recognize that the pending number counter has not been updated if there is no update history. Then, if the pending number counter has been updated, the process proceeds to step S600-7-5, and if the pending number counter has not been updated, the process proceeds to step S600-7-8.

(Step S600-7-5)
In step S600-7-5, the light emission driving CPU 208 judges whether the value of the pending number counter has changed since the previous reading. That is, it judges whether the value of the pending number counter has changed in 99 ms, or whether the value of the pending number counter has not changed but both "increases" and "decreases" have occurred, resulting in "±0". If the value of the pending number counter has changed, the process proceeds to step S600-7-6, and if the value of the pending number counter has not changed, the process proceeds to step S600-7-7.

(Step S600-7-6)
In step S600-7-6, the light emission driving CPU 208 determines the light emission content of the "sub-hold indicator" based on the changed value without skipping the change process. Here, the "change process" refers to the change process of the hold number counter over 99 ms. For example, if the hold number counter changes from "1" to "2" over 99 ms, the change process is not skipped and the "sub-hold indicator" is updated from "1" to "2" and displayed. Then, once the light emission content has been determined based on the changed value, processing proceeds to step S600-7-8.

(Step S600-7-7)
In step S600-7-7, the light emission drive CPU 208 skips the change process for the "sub-reserved indicator" and determines the light emission content with the value at the time of the previous read. For example, if the reserved number counter changes from "1" to "2" within 99 ms and then changes from "2" to "1" (when both the start hole winning and the start of the pattern change game occur), the "sub-reserved indicator" does not emit light from "●○" (one is lit, the other is off) → "●●" (both are lit) → "●○" (one is lit, the other is off), but maintains the light emission of "●○" (one is lit, the other is off) (omitting the change process). Then, when the light emission content is determined with the value at the time of the previous read, the process proceeds to step S600-7-8.

(Step S600-7-8)
In step S600-7-8, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs processing to clear the frame update counter. That is, when the determination of the light emission content related to the hold, which is performed every 99 ms, is finished, processing to set the frame update counter to "0" is performed. Then, after clearing the frame update counter, the process proceeds to step S600-7-9.

(Step S600-7-9)
In step S600-7-9, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs light emission control processing. That is, when the processing of steps S600-7-3 to S600-7-8 is completed and the process reaches this step, the light emission control processing reflects the processing contents of the steps. Then, when the light emission control processing is completed, the process proceeds to step S600-8.

In FIG. 40, the light-emitting content for the sub-hold indicator is determined when the frame update counter reaches "3", but the value of the frame update counter that determines the light-emitting content can be set arbitrarily. For example, it may be greater than "3" or less than "3". For example, the light-emitting content for the sub-hold indicator may be determined when the frame update counter reaches "1". In other words, the light-emitting content for the sub-hold indicator may be determined every 33 ms.

(Light Emission Drive Control Unit Timer Interrupt Processing)
41 is a flowchart showing light emission drive control unit timer interrupt processing performed in the light emission drive CPU 208. This processing is executed by periodically (for example, every 33 ms) interrupting the above-mentioned light emission drive control unit main processing.

(Step S700)
In step S700, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs a process of receiving various sub-commands. That is, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs a process of receiving various sub-commands from the performance control unit 200a. Then, when various sub-commands are received, the process proceeds to step S701.

(Step S701)
In step S701, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs processing to update the frame counter, etc. Then, after updating the frame counter, etc., the process proceeds to step S702.

(Step S702)
In step S702, the light emission drive CPU 208 sets the frame switch flag to ON. Then, when the frame switch flag is set to ON, the light emission drive control unit timer interrupt process ends.

Next, the characteristics of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 42 to 54. Specifically, Figs. 42 to 54 are diagrams showing the characteristics of updates related to the "main hold indicator", "sub hold indicator", "number hold", "relevant hold icon", and "hold icon".

The "frame update counter" in the figure corresponds to the contents described in the explanation of step S400-7-1 in Fig. 37 and step S600-7-1 in Fig. 40. That is, it indicates that one frame of image is displayed every 33 ms.
In addition, the "pending number counter" in the figure corresponds to the pending number counter provided in the image/sound control unit 200b and the pending number counter provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c described above.
In addition, the "main reserved display" in the figure corresponds to the first special symbol reserved display 27c described above. Of course, the second special symbol reserved display 27d may also be included.
In addition, the "sub-reserved indicator" in the figure corresponds to the first special symbol sub-reserved indicator 29a described above. Of course, the second special symbol sub-reserved indicator 29b may also be included.
In addition, the "number reserved" in the figure corresponds to the number of reserved items displayed as the first start port reserved item number image 26e described above. Of course, the number of reserved items displayed as the second start port reserved item number image 26f may also be included.
In addition, the "relevant pending icon" and "reserved icon" in the figure correspond to the aforementioned relevant pending icon display area 26o, the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j. Of course, the second start port first reserved ball image display area 26k to the second start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n may also be included.

(Regarding Time Chart 1)
42 is a time chart 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Time chart 1 shows an example in which the pending number counter does not increase or decrease within 99 ms.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the hold memory area for the first start port in main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly, the "hold number counter" is "2" and two LEDs of the "main hold indicator" are lit. Note that the "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 in FIG. 15.

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "sub-hold indicator" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 40, and the "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" will each be updated according to the value of the "hold number counter" (here, "2") in the process shown in Figure 37.
That is, two LEDs of the "sub-hold indicator" light up, "2" is displayed as the "number hold", hold icon A is displayed in the variable icon display area 26o, hold icon B is displayed in the first start port first hold ball image display area 26g, and hold icon C is displayed in the first start port second hold ball image display area 26h.Then, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "variable icon" and "hold icon" continue to display the corresponding contents until the frame update counter next reaches "3" (until 99 ms has elapsed).

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "2" and two LEDs of the "main reserved indicator" are lit.

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "sub-hold indicator" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 40, and the "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" will each be updated according to the value of the "hold number counter" (here, "2") in the process shown in Figure 37.
That is, two LEDs of the "sub-hold indicator" light up, "2" is displayed as the "number hold", hold icon A is displayed in the variable icon display area 26o, hold icon B is displayed in the first start port first hold ball image display area 26g, and hold icon C is displayed in the first start port second hold ball image display area 26h.Then, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "variable icon" and "hold icon" continue to display the corresponding contents until the frame update counter next reaches "3" (until 99 ms has elapsed).

In this way, if there is no increase or decrease in the number of reserved balls counter within 99 ms, even if the next update cycle occurs at "4F", the "sub reserved ball display" will maintain the display content at "1F" (two LEDs lit), the "number reserved ball" will maintain the display content at "1F" ("2" displayed), and the "corresponding variable icon" and "reserved ball" will maintain the display content at "1F" (reserved ball icon A is displayed in the corresponding variable icon display area 26o, reserved ball icon B is displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g, and reserved ball icon C is displayed in the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h).

(Regarding Time Chart 2)
43 is a time chart 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Time chart 2 shows an example in which the pending number counter increases by one in 99 ms. Since this is an example of an increase, the explanation of the "changing icon" is omitted.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the hold memory area for the first start port in main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly, the "hold number counter" is "2" and two LEDs of the "main hold indicator" are lit. Note that the "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 in FIG. 15.

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "sub-hold indicator" is updated according to the value of the "hold number counter" (here "2") in the process shown in Figure 40, and the "numeric hold" and "hold icon" are updated according to the value of the "hold number counter" (here "2") in the process shown in Figure 37.
That is, two LEDs of the "sub-hold indicator" light up, "2" is displayed as the "number hold", hold icon A is displayed in the variable icon display area 26o, hold icon B is displayed in the first start port first hold ball image display area 26g, and hold icon C is displayed in the first start port second hold ball image display area 26h.Then, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "variable icon" and "hold icon" continue to display the corresponding contents until the frame update counter next reaches "3" (until 99 ms has elapsed).

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 17 is affirmative and step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start hole in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "third memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "3" due to the reception of the start hole related sub-command.
The "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms, so it can be updated at the same or nearly the same timing as "timing T1." That is, the "main hold indicator" is updated to a display in which one LED flashes and the other LED lights up, indicating that the hold memory area for the first start port has been stored up to the "third memory area" (see FIG. 11).
On the other hand, the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold," and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents at "1F" until the next update cycle (frame update counter is "3") (updating will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At that timing, the "hold number counter" is "3" and the "main hold indicator" displays one LED flashing and the other LED lit.
On the other hand, the "Sub-Hold Indicator,""NumericalHold," and "Hold Icon" are not updated and maintain the display contents at "1F."

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "third memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "3" and one LED of the "main reserved indicator" is flashing and the other LED is lit.

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "sub-reserve display" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 40, and the "number reserve" and "reserve icon" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 37 to display content corresponding to the winning at "timing T1" depending on the value of the "reserve number counter" (here, "3").
That is, the "sub-reservation indicator" is updated to a display content where one LED flashes and the other LED lights up, the "number reservation" is updated from displaying "2" to displaying "3", and the "reservation icon" is displayed as the reservation icon D in the first start port third reservation ball image display area 26i. Note that when the "reservation icon" is displayed in each reservation ball image display area, as shown by the reservation icon D, a small circular image is first displayed, and the circular image gradually becomes larger and reaches the normal display size, and is displayed with a display animation. In this way, by displaying the reservation icon corresponding to the winning with a display animation, it is possible to give a visually interesting feeling rather than suddenly displaying it at the normal display size.

Then, the "Sub-Hold Indicator", "Numerical Hold", and "Hold Icon" continue to display the corresponding contents until the frame update counter next reaches "3" (until 99 ms has elapsed).
As described above, it can be said that the "sub-hold display,""numberhold," and "hold icon" are more likely to have a time lag between when a winning jackpot is won at the starting gate and when the display is updated, compared to the "main hold display."

(Regarding Time Chart 3)
44 is a time chart 3 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Time chart 3 shows an example in which the pending number counter is decreased by one in 99 ms.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the hold memory area for the first start port in main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly, the "hold number counter" is "2" and two LEDs of the "main hold indicator" are lit. Note that the "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 in FIG. 15.
At "timing T0" (not shown), the symbol-changing game corresponding to the icon A of the "changing icon" is displayed as a confirmed game, and the icon A of the "changing icon" is erased when the frame update counter after the confirmed game reaches "3." In other words, until "timing T1" (described later) is reached, a so-called inter-changing interval between the symbol-changing game of the first game and the symbol-changing game of the second game is assumed.

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "sub-hold indicator" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 40, and the "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" will each be updated according to the value of the "hold number counter" (here, "2") in the process shown in Figure 37.
That is, two LEDs of the "sub-hold indicator" are lit, "2" is displayed as the "number hold", hold icon B is displayed in the first start port first hold ball image display area 26g, and hold icon C is displayed in the first start port second hold ball image display area 26h. Then, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "the variable icon" and "hold icon" continue to display the corresponding contents until the frame update counter next reaches "3" (until 99 ms has elapsed).

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing when "reserved subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "1" due to the reception of the start port related subcommand.
The "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms, so it can be updated at the same or nearly the same timing as "timing T1." That is, the "main hold indicator" is updated to a display content in which one LED is lit and the other LED is turned off, indicating that the hold memory area for the first start port has been stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11).
On the other hand, the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold,""corresponding variable icon," and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents at "1F" until the next update period (frame update counter is "3") (updating will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "hold number counter" is "1" and the "main hold indicator" displays one LED turned on and the other LED turned off.
On the other hand, the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold,""corresponding variable icon," and "hold icon" are not updated and maintain the display contents on "1F."

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "1" and the "main reserved indicator" has one LED lit and the other LED off.

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", in the process shown in Figure 40, the "sub-hold display" updates the "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" to display content corresponding to the hold subtraction at "timing T1" in accordance with the value of the "hold number counter" (here "1") in the process shown in Figure 37.
In other words, the "sub-hold display" is updated to display one LED turned on and the other LED turned off, the "number hold" is updated from displaying "2" to displaying "1", hold icon B that had been displayed in the first starting port first hold ball image display area 26g slides into the corresponding variable icon display area 26o and is displayed as "the corresponding variable icon", and hold icon C that had been displayed in the first starting port second hold ball image display area 26h slides into the first starting port first hold ball image display area 26g.

Then, the "sub-hold indicator,""digithold,""corresponding variable icon," and "hold icon" will continue to display the corresponding contents until the frame update counter next reaches "3" (until 99 ms has elapsed).
As described above, it can be said that the ``sub-hold indicator,'' ``number hold,'' ``relevant variable icon,'' and ``hold icon'' are more likely to have a time lag between when a hold subtraction occurs and when the display is updated, compared to the ``main hold indicator.''

(Regarding Time Chart 4)
45 is a time chart 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Time chart 4 shows an example in which the pending number counter increases by one in 99 ms and then decreases by one.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the hold memory area for the first start port in main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly, the "hold number counter" is "2" and two LEDs of the "main hold indicator" are lit. Note that the "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 in FIG. 15.
At "timing T0" (not shown), the symbol-changing game corresponding to the icon A of the "changing icon" is displayed as a confirmed game, and the icon A of the "changing icon" is erased when the frame update counter after the confirmed game reaches "3." In other words, until "timing T2" (described later), a so-called inter-changing interval between the symbol-changing game of the first game and the symbol-changing game of the second game is assumed.

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "sub-hold indicator" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 40, and the "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" will each be updated according to the value of the "hold number counter" (here, "2") in the process shown in Figure 37.
That is, two LEDs of the "sub-hold indicator" are lit, "2" is displayed as the "number hold", hold icon B is displayed in the first start port first hold ball image display area 26g, and hold icon C is displayed in the first start port second hold ball image display area 26h. Then, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "the variable icon" and "hold icon" continue to display the corresponding contents until the frame update counter next reaches "3" (until 99 ms has elapsed).

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 during the inter-variation interval (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 17 is affirmative and step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start hole in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "third memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "3" due to the reception of the start hole-related sub-command.
The "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms, so it can be updated at the same or nearly the same timing as "timing T1." That is, the "main hold indicator" is updated to a display in which one LED flashes and the other LED lights up, indicating that the hold memory area for the first start port has been stored up to the "third memory area" (see FIG. 11).
On the other hand, the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold," and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents at "1F" until the next update cycle (frame update counter is "3") (updating will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

Next, "timing T2" is the timing when "reserved subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "2" due to the reception of the start port related subcommand.
The "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms, so it can be updated at the same or nearly the same timing as "timing T2." That is, the "main hold indicator" is updated to a display in which two LEDs are lit, indicating that the hold memory area for the first start port has been stored up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11).
On the other hand, the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold,""corresponding variable icon," and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents at "1F" until the next update period (frame update counter is "3") (updating will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "hold number counter" is "2" and two LEDs are lit on the "main hold indicator."
On the other hand, the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold,""corresponding variable icon," and "hold icon" are not updated and maintain the display contents on "1F."

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "2" and two LEDs are lit on the "main reserved indicator".

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", in the process shown in Figure 40, the "sub-reserve display" updates the "number reserve", "relevant variable icon" and "reserve icon" in the process shown in Figure 37, depending on the value of the "reserve number counter" (here "2"), to display content corresponding to winning the starting gate at "timing T1" and display content corresponding to reserve subtraction at "timing T2", respectively.
However, in this example, the pending number counter is increased by one at "timing T1" and decreased by one at "timing T2", so it is "±0".
In this way, if the pending number counter increases by one over 99 ms and then decreases by one, resulting in the pending number counter becoming "±0",
The "main hold display" updates its display every 4 ms, so it will not omit displays of either an increase or a decrease.
Since the "Sub-hold display" is updated every 33 ms, the display of both an increase and a decrease is omitted. In other words, the display content of "1F" is maintained from the appearance.
Since the "Number Reserve" display is updated every 33 ms, both the increase and decrease indications are omitted. In other words, the display content of "1F" is maintained.
Although the "relevant reserved icon" and the "reserved icon" are updated every 33 ms, the display of either an increase or decrease is not omitted. That is, the reserved icon D is temporarily displayed in the first start port third reserved ball image display area 26i, and then the reserved icon B that was previously displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g slides to the relevant variable icon display area 26o and is displayed as the "relevant variable icon", the reserved icon C that was previously displayed in the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h slides to the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g, and the reserved icon D that was temporarily displayed in the first start port third reserved ball image display area 26i slides to the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h.
It has the following characteristics:

The reason for this configuration is that, for example, the player is likely to be paying close attention to the image display device 26 while playing, and the degree of attention to the "sub-reserve display" located at a position away from the image display device 26 is low. Therefore, in terms of the degree of attention, the "reserved icon", the "reserved icon", and the "number reserved" are greater than the "sub-reserved display."
In addition, since the "number reservation" is displayed in the lower right corner of the display area and is an image with a smaller display size than the "reserved icon" and the "reserved icon", the "reserved icon" and the "reserved icon" are more easily seen by the player than the "number reservation". Therefore, in terms of ease of seeing, the "reserved icon" and the "reserved icon" are greater than the "number reservation".
In other words, while the update cycle is the same, the "reserved icon" and "reserved icon," which attract a high level of attention from players and are easy to see, are displayed without omitting both the indication of an increase or decrease, thereby preventing the player from feeling uncomfortable; and the "number reserve" and "sub reserve indicator," which attract a low level of attention from players and are hard to see compared to the "reserved icon" and "reserved icon," are displayed without omitting both the indication of an increase or decrease, thereby reducing the processing involved in image generation (e.g., the amount of display to be updated).

In addition, in this embodiment, when the frame update counter reaches "3" (every 99 ms), the display of the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold,""relevant hold icon," and "hold icon" is updated.
The reason for this is that, for example, compared to when updating at a shorter update cycle, the possibility of a start-up winning or reserved subtraction occurring is higher. And when the possibility of a start-up winning or reserved subtraction occurring increases, the phenomenon shown in Fig. 45 is more likely to occur. And when the phenomenon shown in Fig. 45 occurs, by omitting what can be omitted, the processing related to image generation (for example, the amount of display to be updated) can be reduced more effectively.
As described above, when the frame update counter reaches "3" (every 99 ms), the "Sub-hold indicator", "Number hold", "Relevant hold icon" and "Hold icon" are displayed and updated, but the frame update counter to be displayed and updated can be changed as appropriate. For example, it may be "1" or "5".

In addition, in Figure 45, when the reserved icon D is initially displayed in the first starting port second reserved ball image display area 26h, it may be slid to the first starting port second reserved ball image display area 26h after the display animation reaches its normal display size in the first starting port second reserved ball image display area 26h, or it may be slid to the first starting port second reserved ball image display area 26h before the display animation reaches its normal display size.
In this way, in the former case, the player can clearly recognize that an increased reserved ball has been newly displayed, and in the latter case, (an icon) can be quickly displayed in the corresponding reserved ball image display area, thereby achieving an optimal display of a reserved ball image.

(Regarding Time Chart 5)
46 is a time chart 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Time chart 5 shows an example in which the pending number counter is decremented by one in 99 ms and then incremented by one.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the hold memory area for the first start port in main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly, the "hold number counter" is "2" and two LEDs of the "main hold indicator" are lit. Note that the "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 in FIG. 15.
At "timing T0" (not shown), the symbol-changing game corresponding to the icon A of the "changing icon" is displayed as a confirmed game, and the icon A of the "changing icon" is erased when the frame update counter after the confirmed game reaches "3." In other words, until "timing T1" (described later) is reached, a so-called inter-changing interval between the symbol-changing game of the first game and the symbol-changing game of the second game is assumed.

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "relevant variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing when "reserved subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "1" due to the reception of the start port related subcommand.
The "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms, so it can be updated at the same or nearly the same timing as "timing T1." That is, the "main hold indicator" is updated to a display content in which one LED is lit and the other LED is turned off, indicating that the hold memory area for the first start port has been stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11).
On the other hand, the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold,""corresponding variable icon," and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents at "1F" until the next update period (frame update counter is "3") (updating will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

Next, "timing T2" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 17 is affirmative and step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start hole in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "2" due to the reception of the start hole related subcommand.
The "main hold indicator" is updated every 4 ms, so it can be updated at the same or nearly the same timing as "timing T2." That is, the "main hold indicator" is updated to a display in which two LEDs are lit, indicating that the hold memory area for the first start port has been stored up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11).
On the other hand, the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold," and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents at "1F" until the next update cycle (frame update counter is "3") (updating will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "hold number counter" is "2" and two LEDs are lit on the "main hold indicator."
On the other hand, the "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold,""corresponding variable icon," and "hold icon" are not updated and maintain the display contents on "1F."

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "2" and two LEDs are lit on the "main reserved indicator".

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", in the process shown in Figure 40, the "sub-reserve display" updates the "number reserve", "relevant variable icon" and "reserve icon" in the process shown in Figure 37, depending on the value of the "reserve number counter" (here "2"), to display content corresponding to the reserve subtraction at "timing T1", and display content corresponding to winning the starting gate at "timing T2".
However, in this example, the pending number counter is "±0" because it is decreased by one at "timing T1" and increased by one at "timing T2".
In this way, if the pending number counter decreases by one over 99 ms and then increases by one, resulting in the pending number counter becoming "±0",
The "main hold display" updates its display every 4 ms, so it will not omit displays of either a decrease or an increase.
Since the "Sub-hold display" is updated every 33 ms, both the decrease and increase indications are omitted. In other words, the display content of "1F" is maintained.
Since the "Number Reserve" display is updated every 33 ms, both the decrease and increase indications are omitted. In other words, the display content of "1F" is maintained from the outside.
Although the "relevant reserved icon" and the "reserved icon" are updated every 33 ms, the display of the decrease and the display of the increase are not omitted. That is, the reserved icon B that was displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g slides to the variable icon display area 26o and is displayed as the "relevant variable icon", the reserved icon C that was displayed in the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h slides to the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g, and the reserved icon D is displayed in the first start port third reserved ball image display area 26i with a display animation.
It has the following characteristics:
This provides the same effect as that described in the description of FIG.
In addition, the events described in Figures 45 and 46 (events in which both decreases and increases occur within a given frame) are more likely to occur in a time-saving game state, in which it is easier to execute a symbol variation game and it is easier to win the starting hole, than in a normal game state. Therefore, the contents described in Figures 45 and 46 (configurations that may or may not be omitted depending on the display device) are more effective when executed in a time-saving game state.
Furthermore, in the case of a pachinko game machine 1 that has a probability variable game state, if it is executed in the probability variable game state, it will be more effective, just like in the time-saving game state.
In this embodiment, the contents explained in Fig. 45 and Fig. 46 (which may or may not be omitted depending on the display device) are implemented in both the normal game state and the time-saving game state, but they may be executed in only one of the game states, or may be executed and not executed in the same game state. For example, even in the same game state, they may be executed in "A mode (A stage)" but not executed in "B mode (B stage)".

(Regarding Time Chart 6)
FIG. 47 is a time chart 6 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Time chart 6 is a diagram mainly comparing the "number reservation" and the "reserved icon" from the start of the display update to the completion of the display update when reservation subtraction is performed. Note that the period up to "timing T1" is an inter-variable interval. Also, FIG. 47 mainly explains the "number reservation" and the "reserved icon", and omits an explanation of the "main reservation indicator".

First, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "Number of Holds Counter" is "2", and the "Sub-hold Indicator", "Number Hold", and "Hold Icon" are not updated, and maintain the display contents prior to "3F".

Next, "timing T1" is the timing when "reserved subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "1" due to the reception of the start port related subcommand.
The "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold," and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents prior to "3F" until the next update cycle (frame update counter is "3") (updates will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "1".

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "sub-hold display" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 40, and the "numeric hold" and "hold icon" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 37 to display content corresponding to the hold subtraction at "timing T1" in accordance with the value of the "hold number counter" (here, "1").
Here, "number reservation" starts display update at "4F" and completes display update at "4F." That is, on the "4F," the display switches from "2" to "1."
On the other hand, the "reserved icon" starts display update at "4F". That is, the timing of starting display update is the same as that of "number reserved". However, as shown in FIG. 47, the reserved icon B that was displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g is slid to the variable icon display area 26o and displayed as the "variable icon", and the reserved icon C that was displayed in the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h is slid to the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g and displayed, so that in the subsequent "αF" (the value of α is an arbitrary value), the update process (the reserved icon is sliding) is performed, and in the subsequent "βF" (the value of β is an arbitrary value), the display update is completed. Therefore, the display update is completed in a frame later than "number reserved". In other words, it can be said that the time required for the display update of the "reserved icon" is longer than the time required for the display update of the "number reserved".

The reason for this configuration is, as mentioned above, that the ``reserve icon'' is more likely to catch the player's eye than the ``number reserve,'' and the ``reserve icon,'' which is more likely to catch the player's eye, can be made to look more interesting by taking more time to update its display than the ``number reserve.''
Also, since the "number reservation" does not play the role of the above-mentioned "reserved ball look-ahead performance," but the "reserved ball icon" plays the role of the "reserved ball look-ahead performance," it is possible to change the image to a read-ahead reserved ball image, for example, by using the update process (while the reserved ball icon is sliding). By configuring it in this way, it is possible to make the player pay attention to the update process (while the reserved ball icon is sliding), and to increase the interest in the game.

(Regarding Time Chart 7)
FIG. 48 is a time chart 7 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The time chart 7 is a diagram mainly comparing the display update start to the display update completion of "number reservation" and "reserved icon" when the starting gate winning is performed. Note that FIG. 48 differs from FIG. 47 only in whether it is a decrease or an increase, so the explanation will be omitted as appropriate.

"Timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 17 is affirmative and step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start hole in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "third memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "3" due to the reception of the start hole related sub-command.
The "sub-hold indicator,""numberhold," and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents prior to "3F" until the next update cycle (frame update counter is "3") (updates will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 has stored up to the "third memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "3".

Also, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "sub-reserve display" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 40, and the "number reserve" and "reserve icon" will be updated in the process shown in Figure 37 to display content corresponding to winning the starting gate at "timing T1" depending on the value of the "reserve number counter" (here, "3").
Here, "number reservation" starts display update at "4F" and completes display update at "4F." That is, on the "4F," the display switches from "2" to "3."
On the other hand, the "reserved icon" starts display update at "4F". That is, the timing of starting display update is the same as "number reserved". However, as shown in FIG. 48, a new reserved icon D is displayed in the first start port third reserved ball image display area 26i with the above-mentioned display animation, so that in the subsequent "αF" (the value of α is any value), the update process (the reserved icon D gradually becomes larger) is performed, and in the subsequent "βF" (the value of β is any value), the display update is completed (the reserved icon D is displayed in normal size). Therefore, the display update is completed in a frame later than "number reserved". In other words, it can be said that the time required for the display update of the "reserved icon" is longer than the time required for the display update of the "number reserved".
This provides the same effect as that described with reference to FIG.

(Regarding Time Chart 8)
49 is a time chart 8 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The time chart 8 shows (Example 1) a case where a winning entry at the start point occurs in a variable display, and (Example 2) a case where a winning entry at the start point occurs while waiting for customers, and in particular, a comparison is made between the start and end of the display animation related to the "hold icon."

In Example 1, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (e.g., step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At that timing, the "pending number counter" is "1" and the "pending icon" is not updated and maintains the display content from before "3F".

Next, in (Example 1), "timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 17 is affirmative and step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start hole in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "2" due to the reception of the start hole related subcommand.
The "hold icon" will maintain the display content prior to "3F" until the next update cycle (frame update counter is "3") (updating will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

Next, in (Example 1), "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (e.g., step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "second memory area" (see FIG. 11), and therefore the "reserved number counter" is "2".

Furthermore, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "pending icon" will be updated to the display content corresponding to winning the starting gate at "timing T1" in accordance with the value of the "pending number counter" (here, "2") in the process shown in Figure 37.
That is, at "4F", display updating is started, and accompanied by the above-mentioned display animation, a new reserved icon C is displayed in a small size in the first starting hole second reserved ball image display area 26h.

Next, in (Example 1), "αF" (the value of α is an arbitrary value) is a frame in the update process, and the hold icon C, which began to be displayed at "4F", is displayed at a size larger than "4F".
Then, at the subsequent "βF" (the value of β is an arbitrary value), the display animation of the newly displayed reserved icon C in the first starting hole second reserved ball image display area 26h is completed, and the reserved icon C is displayed in its normal size.

On the other hand, in (Example 2), "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At that timing, the "pending number counter" is "-" and the "pending icon" is not displayed.

Next, in (Example 2), "timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 17 is affirmative and step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start hole of the main RAM 103 is temporarily stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" is temporarily set to "1" due to the reception of the associated start hole related subcommand. In addition, in the reserved memory area for the first start hole of the main RAM 103, the judgment information that was temporarily stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11) is then transferred to the "zeroth memory area" (see FIG. 11). In response to this, the reserved number counter also becomes "0".
The "on hold icon" will not be displayed until the next update period (frame update counter is "3").

Next, in (Example 2), "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (e.g., step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "1".

Furthermore, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "pending icon" will be updated to the display content corresponding to winning the starting gate at "timing T1" in accordance with the value of the "pending number counter" (here, "1") in the process shown in Figure 37.
That is, at "4F", display updating is started, and a new reserved icon C is displayed in a small size in the first starting hole first reserved ball image display area 26g, accompanied by the display animation described above.

Next, in (Example 2), "αF" (the value of α is any value) is the frame that completes the display animation of the reserved icon C that is newly displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g. In other words, when a winning ball is won at the start port while waiting for a customer, the update process shown by "αF" in (Example 1) is partially (or entirely) omitted. Therefore, in (Example 2), at "αF" (the value of α is any value), the reserved icon becomes the normal display size.
Then, at "βF" (the value of β is an arbitrary value), the reserved icon A displayed in the first starting port first reserved ball image display area 26g slides (shifts) to the variable icon display area 26o.
Therefore, between (Example 1) and (Example 2), it can be said that (Example 1) has a longer execution time for the display animation of a newly displayed hold icon.

The reason for this configuration is that in the case of (Example 2), it is necessary to first display the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g with "αF" and then slide (shift) it with "βF" (this is not necessary in Example 1). For example, if the display animation of the reserved icon is executed over the same time as in (Example 1), the reserved icon A will be displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g even though the pattern change game has already started, which may give the player a sense of incongruity. Therefore, in (Example 2), it is necessary to omit part (or all) of the update process, display the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g, and then quickly slide (shift) it to the variable icon display area 26o to prevent the above-mentioned sense of incongruity from being given. On the other hand, in (Example 1), the variable display related to the previous pattern change game is still being performed, and there is no need to slide (shift) it to the variable icon display area 26o, so the reserved icon can be displayed without omitting the update process. This allows for a suitable display of the reserved ball image.

(Regarding Time Chart 9)
FIG. 50 is a time chart 9 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The time chart 9 shows a case where a start gate winning occurs during a customer waiting period (Example 2) and a case where a start gate winning occurs during a demo performance (Example 3), and is a diagram comparing the display animation related to the "hold icon" from start to completion. Note that (Example 2) has already been explained in FIG. 49, so the explanation here is omitted.

In (Example 3), "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, negating step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40). At this timing, the "reserved number counter" is "-" and the "reserved icon" is not displayed. Note that "not displayed" here means that, because a demo performance is in progress, the variable icon display area 26o and the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are not displayed.

Next, in (Example 3), "timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 17 is affirmative and step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start hole of the main RAM 103 is temporarily stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" is temporarily set to "1" due to the reception of the associated start hole related subcommand. Note that, in the reserved memory area for the first start hole of the main RAM 103, the judgment information that was temporarily stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11) is then transferred to the "zeroth memory area" (see FIG. 11). In response to this, the reserved number counter also becomes "0".
The "on hold icon" will not be displayed until the next update period (frame update counter is "3").

Next, in (Example 3), "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the "pending number counter" is "0", and a new pending icon A is directly displayed in the variable icon display area 26o at the normal display size without the display animation described above.
Therefore, between (Example 2) and (Example 3), it can be said that (Example 2) has a longer execution time for the display animation of a newly displayed hold icon.
In addition, in (Example 3) of FIG. 50, no display animation is performed, but it may be accompanied by a display animation for a shorter time than (Example 2). In that case, as shown by "βF" in (Example 2), the reserved icon may be displayed once in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g, and then slid (shifted) to the variable icon display area 26o. Also, there is no problem with executing a display animation for the same time as when waiting for customers.

The reason for this configuration is that in the case of (Example 2), since the player is waiting for customers, the variable icon display area 26o and the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are displayed, whereas in the case of (Example 3), since the demo performance is in progress, the variable icon display area 26o and the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are not displayed. In other words, if a winning start port occurs during the demo performance, the demo performance screen is ended and a variable display screen is displayed, and then a display animation similar to that during the customer waiting period is displayed, the reserved icon A is displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g even though the pattern change game has already started, which may give the player a sense of incongruity. Therefore, in (Example 3), the player can prevent the above-mentioned sense of incongruity from being given by directly displaying a new reserved icon A in the variable icon display area 26o. This allows for an optimal display of the reserved ball image.

FIG. 51 is a display example of the contents explained in the time charts of FIGS.
In addition, in the figure, the variable icon display area 26o, the first starting port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are simply written as ``o'', ``g'', ``h'', ``i'', and ``j''.
In the display example of the variable display of (Example 1) when a winning entry at the start port occurs, the variable icon display area 26o, the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are displayed before and after the winning entry at the start port, and when a winning entry at the start port occurs, a new reserved icon is displayed in the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h accompanied by a display animation.
In the display example in which a winning entry at the start port occurs while customers are waiting (Example 2), the variable icon display area 26o and the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g to first start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are displayed before and after the winning entry at the start port, and when a winning entry at the start port occurs, a reserved icon is displayed in the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26g with some (or all) of the display animation omitted (indicated by a dotted circle in the figure), and then it is quickly slid (shifted) to the variable icon display area 26o.
In a display example in which a winning entry to the starting port occurs during the demo performance of (Example 3), the variable icon display area 26o and the first starting port first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting port fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are not displayed before and after the winning entry to the starting port, and when a winning entry to the starting port occurs, the demo performance screen is ended and the variable display screen is displayed, and the variable icon is displayed directly in the variable icon display area 26o.
(Example 1) to (Example 3) are display examples like the above.

(Regarding Time Chart 10)
52 is a time chart 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The time chart 10 is a diagram showing a display mode of the hold icon when an irregularity occurs.

First, timing (a) indicates that, for example, a transmission error or a reception error has occurred in the start port related information command, resulting in a difference between the number of pending memories stored on the main control board 100 side and the number of pending memories stored on the performance control board 200 side.
That is, the reserved memory area of the main RAM 103 stores up to the "third memory area" (see FIG. 11), the reserved memory area of the sub-RAM 203 stores up to the "first memory area," and the reserved number counter stores up to the "first memory area." Therefore, while the reserved memory area and reserved number counter of the sub-RAM 203 should originally store up to the "third memory area," they only store up to the "first memory area."
In addition, since the variable icon display area 26o assumes an interval between fluctuations, the variable icon is not displayed, and the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g displays reserved icon B, while no reserved icon is displayed in the other reserved ball image display areas.

Next, at timing (b), the reserved subtraction is performed, and as the change begins, a reserved memory area designation command indicating a memory count of 2 is set in step S105-2-8 of FIG. 21, and this command is sent in the command sending process of FIG. 15. Although not shown in the figure, it is assumed that the reserved memory area designation command indicating a memory count of 2 is received normally in the performance control board 200. Therefore, when the performance control board 200 receives this command, the memory count in the sub-RAM 203 changes from "1" to "2", just like the memory count in the main RAM 103, which is 2, and the memory count in the reserved count counter also changes from "1" to "2".

Then, when the frame update counter becomes "3", the reserved icon C is displayed in the first start port first reserved ball image display area 26g and the reserved icon D is displayed in the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h to display the reserved icon according to the value of the reserved number counter. Note that, since the reserved subtraction is performed at the timing (b), the variable icon B is displayed in the variable icon display area 26o.
Here, when displaying the reserved icon C in the first starting port first reserved ball image display area 26g and the reserved icon D in the first starting port second reserved ball image display area 26h, both are displayed simultaneously without any display animation.
In other words, when a command reception error or the like occurs and the hold icon that should normally be displayed is displayed as a correction, no display animation is performed.
This allows the normal hold icon to be displayed quickly, so that any discomfort felt by a player who notices, for example, that there is a discrepancy between the display content of the "main hold display" and the display content of the hold icon can be quickly resolved.

(Regarding Time Chart 11)
FIG. 53 is a time chart 11 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The time chart 11 is a diagram showing the display mode of the reserved icon when an irregularity occurs. Note that FIG. 52 describes a case in which the number of reserved memories stored on the main control board 100 side is greater than the number of reserved memories stored on the performance control board 200 side, but FIG. 53 describes a case in which the number of reserved memories stored on the performance control board 200 side is greater than the number of reserved memories stored on the main control board 100 side. Note that the description of the parts common to FIG. 52 will be omitted as appropriate.

That is, at timing (b), the reserved subtraction is performed, and as the change begins, a reserved memory area designation command indicating a memory count of 1 is set in step S105-2-8 of FIG. 21, and this command is sent in the command sending process of FIG. 15. Although not shown in the figure, it is assumed that the reserved memory area designation command indicating a memory count of 1 was received normally in the performance control board 200. Therefore, when the performance control board 200 receives this command, the memory count in the sub-RAM 203 changes from "4" to "1", just like the memory count in the main RAM 103, which is 1, and the memory count in the reserved count counter also changes from "4" to "1".

Then, when the frame update counter reaches "3", the hold icon B is shifted (display updated) to the variable icon display area 26o in order to display the hold icon according to the value of the hold number counter. Meanwhile, for the hold icons C, D, and E, the following correction display is performed at this timing in order to display the hold icon according to the value of the hold number counter, "1".
Pending icon C...shifts (updates display) from the first starting port second pending ball image display area 26h to the first starting port first pending ball image display area 26g.
Reserve icon D...disappears from the first starting hole third reserved ball image display area 26i.
Reserve icon E...Deleted in the first starting port, fourth reserved ball image display area 26j (deleted at the same time as reserve icon D).
This provides the same effect as that described in the description of FIG.

(Regarding Time Chart 12)
54 is a time chart 12 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The time chart 12 shows an irregularity in the reserved pre-reading performance at the start gate winning.

First, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is negated). At this timing, the "reserved number counter" is "1", and the "reserved icon" and the "reserved icon" are not updated and maintain the display contents before "3F".
At "timing T0" (not shown), the symbol-changing game corresponding to the icon A of the "changing icon" is displayed as a confirmed game, and the icon A of the "changing icon" is erased when the frame update counter after the confirmed game reaches "3." In other words, until "timing T1" (described later) is reached, a so-called inter-changing interval between the symbol-changing game of the first game and the symbol-changing game of the second game is assumed.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing when "reserved subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 stores up to the "zeroth memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "0" due to the reception of the start port related subcommand.
The "changing icon" and the "pending icon" will maintain the display content prior to "3F" until the next update cycle (when the frame update counter is "3") (updating will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").

"Timing T2" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 17 is affirmative and step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start hole in the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and the "reserved number counter" becomes "1" due to the reception of the start hole related subcommand.
The "changing icon" and the "pending icon" will maintain the display content prior to "3F" until the next update cycle (when the frame update counter is "3") (updating will not be performed at approximately the same timing as "timing T1").
It is assumed that at "timing T2", the winning jackpot at the starting gate has led to the execution of the reserved pre-reading effect.

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 37 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 40 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved memory area for the first start port in the main RAM 103 has stored data up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 11), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "1".

Furthermore, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "pending icon" will be updated to the display content corresponding to winning the starting gate at "timing T2" in accordance with the value of the "pending number counter" (here, "1") in the process shown in Figure 37.
Here, it is assumed that the sound generation process of step S400-8 in Fig. 36 was executed, but the image generation process of step S400-7 in Fig. 36 could not be executed. In other words, it is assumed that the reserved icon corresponding to the winning of the starting hole at "timing T2" could not be displayed in the first starting hole first reserved ball image display area 26g.
In this case, since the sound generation process of step S400-8 in Fig. 36 has been executed, when the reserved pre-reading performance mentioned at "timing T2" is won, for example, a sound (piron ♪) corresponding to the pre-read reserved ball image "blue" is output from the speaker 10. Therefore, an event occurs in which the pre-read reserved ball image of "blue" is not displayed, but a sound corresponding to the pre-read reserved ball image of "blue" is output.
In addition, the sound corresponding to the pre-read reserved ball image is different for each color of the pre-read reserved ball image, and an experienced player may be able to recognize from the sound what color pre-read reserved ball image is displayed.

Then, at the subsequent "αF", the display content corresponding to the winning of the starting hole at "timing T2", the "blue" pre-read reserved ball image (blue reserved) is displayed in the first starting hole first reserved ball image display area 26g. Note that at this timing, the sound corresponding to the pre-read reserved ball image (blue reserved) is not output.
In this way, even if a player wins the reserved ball pre-reading effect by winning the starting gate, but the image generation process cannot be executed, a sound corresponding to the pre-read reserved ball image that was supposed to be displayed is output separately, so that an experienced player as described above can recognize from the output sound what color pre-read reserved ball image will be displayed later (for example, "αF") even if the pre-read reserved ball image is not displayed.

Second Embodiment
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the second embodiment, only differences from the first embodiment will be described, and detailed descriptions of parts common to the first embodiment and descriptions of the drawings will be omitted.
In the first embodiment, the game state includes a normal game state and a time-saving game state, and the probability of being determined as a big win is constant regardless of the game state (1/319 in either game state). In contrast, the second embodiment includes a low-probability game state (corresponding to the normal game state in the first embodiment) and a high-probability game state (corresponding to the probability-changing game state described in the first embodiment) as game states, and is significantly different from the first embodiment in that the probability of being determined as a big win varies depending on the game state. On the other hand, it is common to the first embodiment in that the opening support state of the second starting hole 22 is terminated by a special symbol (for example, special symbol D) that constitutes a small win.

(Regarding game board 6)
First, in the second embodiment, the configuration of the game board 6 is slightly different from that of the first embodiment. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 55, the gate member 20 through which the game ball can pass is provided on the left side of the game area 7, and the game ball can pass through in the case of "left hit". In addition, the second start hole 22 is provided directly below the first start hole 21, and the game ball can also enter in the case of "left hit". That is, in a state in which the game ball is allowed to enter the second start hole 22 ("State B (present)" described later), if a "left hit" is performed, the game ball can be made to pass through the gate member 20 and enter the second start hole 22.
In addition, a second large prize opening 32 is provided directly below the second starting opening 22 and with the same width as the second starting opening 22.
That is, in the second embodiment, the board is configured so that "right hit" is performed only during a jackpot game, and "left hit" is performed otherwise.

(Special symbol big win judgment table, special symbol small win judgment table)
FIG. 56 shows (1) a special symbol big win determination table and (2) a special symbol small win determination table.
(1) According to the special symbol jackpot determination table, the probability of a jackpot being determined to be a jackpot in a low probability game state for both the first start hole 21 and the second start hole 22 is "1/319", and the probability of a jackpot being determined to be a jackpot in a high probability game state is "1/60", making it easier to determine a jackpot in a high probability game state than in a low probability game state. Therefore, it can be said that a high probability game state is a more advantageous game state for a player than a low probability game state.
(2) According to the special pattern small win determination table, neither the first starting hole 21 nor the second starting hole 22 will result in a small win in a low probability game state, and the probability of a small win being determined in a high probability game state is 1/3.

(About the big win special symbol determination table and the small win special symbol determination table)
FIG. 57 shows (A) a big win special symbol determination table and (B) a small win special symbol determination table.
(A) According to the jackpot special symbol determination table, when the first starting hole 21 and the second starting hole 22 are both judged to be jackpots, either the "special symbol J", the "special symbol K", or the "special symbol L" is determined. In either case, the number of rounds awarded is set to "10", and a jackpot game consisting of "10" rounds (corresponding to one jackpot game in the first embodiment) can be executed. In addition, the game state after a win with the "special symbol J" is a low probability game state, and the game state after a win with the "special symbol K" or the "special symbol L" is a high probability game state. Therefore, the "special symbol K" and the "special symbol L", which are in a high probability game state after a win, are more advantageous for the player than the "special symbol J", which is in a low probability game state after a win.
In addition, the second start hole opening support state after a win with "special symbol J" is "State A (absent)," the second start hole opening support state after a win with "special symbol K" is "State B (present)," and the second start hole opening support state after a win with "special symbol L" is "State A (absent)." Therefore, it is more advantageous for the player to have "special symbol K" in which the game ball is allowed to enter the second start hole 22 after a win (State B (present)) than "special symbol J" in which the game ball is not allowed to enter the second start hole 22 after a win (State A (absent)).
Here, the "special symbol L" is in state A (absent) where the game ball is not allowed to enter the second starting hole 22 after a win, but is more advantageous to the player than the "special symbol K" in which the game ball is allowed to enter the second starting hole 22 after a win (present). The reason for this will be described later.
In addition, there is a 50% chance of a jackpot deciding on a "special symbol J", a 40% chance of a jackpot deciding on a "special symbol K", and a 10% chance of a jackpot deciding on a "special symbol L".

(B) According to the small win special symbol determination table, when the game state is a "high probability game state" and the second start hole opening support state is "state B (present)", if a small win is determined at the first start hole 21 or the second start hole 22, either "special symbol D" or "special symbol E" is determined. In either case, "2" is set as the number of rounds to be awarded, and a small win game consisting of "2" rounds (corresponding to the small win game in the first embodiment) can be executed. In addition, the game state after a win with "special symbol D" becomes a high probability game state, and the game state after a win with "special symbol E" becomes a high probability game state. In addition, the second start hole opening support state after a win with "special symbol D" becomes "state A (not present)", and the second start hole opening support state after a win with "special symbol E" becomes "state B (present)".
Here, the "special symbol D" is more advantageous to the player than the "special symbol E" which, after a win, results in state A (absent) in which the game ball is not allowed to enter the second starting hole 22, but is allowed to enter the second starting hole 22. The reason for this will be described later.
In addition, when the second start hole opening support state is "State A (none)", if a small win is determined at the first start hole 21, either "special pattern D" or "special pattern E" is determined. In either case, "2" is set as the number of rounds awarded, and a small win game consisting of "2" rounds (corresponding to the small win game in the first embodiment) can be executed. In addition, for both "special pattern D" and "special pattern E", the game state after the win becomes a high probability game state, and the second start hole opening support state after the win becomes "State A (none)".
In either case, there is a 10% chance of a small win that a "special symbol D" will be determined, and there is a 90% chance that a small win will result in a "special symbol E."

In other words, "special pattern D" is a special pattern which, after a win, sets the second starting hole opening support state to state A (absent), whether it is determined when the second starting hole opening support state is in state B (present) in a high probability game state, or when it is determined when the second starting hole opening support state is in state A (absent) in a high probability game state.
On the other hand, "special pattern E" is a special pattern which, if determined when the second starting hole opening support state is in state B (present) in a high probability game state, sets the second starting hole opening support state to state B (present) after a win, and, if determined when the second starting hole opening support state is in state A (absent) in a high probability game state, sets the second starting hole opening support state to state A (absent) after a win.
In other words, when the second starting hole opening support state is in state B (present), if the "special pattern D" is determined, the second starting hole opening support state is terminated, which is similar to the first embodiment in that a small hit with the "special pattern D" constitutes the termination condition for the time-saving game state (the termination condition for the opening support state of the second starting hole 22).
On the other hand, in the first embodiment, a small win with the "special symbol D" is disadvantageous to the player, but in the second embodiment, a small win with the "special symbol D" is advantageous to the player, which is different. The reason for this will be described later.

(Details about the special big win patterns and the special small win patterns)
In FIG. 58 (A) in the details of the special jackpot symbols, the "special symbol J" (first type jackpot 1), "special symbol K" (first type jackpot 2), and "special symbol L" (first type jackpot 3) open the door of the first big prize winning hole 24 for 29.5S per round, and when the entry of "10" game balls is detected or 29.5S has elapsed before the entry of "10" game balls is detected, the door of the first big prize winning hole 24 closes. Then, when the closing interval time has elapsed, the game moves to the next round, and this is done for "10" rounds. After the "10" rounds are finished, the game moves to the jackpot ending (for example, 10S).

In addition, in the (B) small win special pattern details in Figure 58, for "special pattern D" (small win 1) and "special pattern E" (small win 2), the door of the second large prize opening 32 opens for 0.8 S in the first round, and when the entry of a "10" game ball is detected, or when 0.8 S has passed before the entry of a "10" game ball is detected, the door of the second large prize opening 32 closes. Then, when the closing interval time has elapsed, it moves on to the next round, and this is repeated up to the "2" round.

(Regarding the normal symbol hit judgment table and the normal symbol determination table)
In (1) the normal symbol hit determination table in Figure 59, when the second start hole opening support state is "State A (none)," the probability that the normal symbol hit determination process will determine that the symbol is a hit is "-" (normal symbol not a hit), and when the second start hole opening support state is "State B (present)," the probability that the normal symbol hit determination process will determine that the symbol is a hit is "250/251."

When the main CPU 101 determines that the second start port opening support state is "state B (present)" and that the normal pattern is a hit in the normal pattern hit determination process, it uses the (2) normal pattern determination table in FIG. 59 to determine "normal pattern A", opens the protruding member of the second start port 22 for 1.3S, closes it, waits the closing interval time, and then opens the protruding member of the second start port 22 again for 1.3S, closes it, waits the closing interval time, and then opens the protruding member of the second start port 22 again for 1.3S, and then closes it, waits the closing interval time, and then opens the protruding member of the second start port 22 again for 1.3S. On the other hand, when it determines that the normal pattern is a miss in the normal pattern hit determination process, it uses the (2) normal pattern determination table to determine "normal pattern B", and it is determined that the protruding member of the second start port 22 is not to be opened.
In addition, when the second starting hole opening support state is "State A (none)", it is not possible to win normally, so both are displayed as "-".
In addition, when the second start hole opening support state is "State A (absent)", it may be possible to make it so that a normal hit occurs. In that case, the probability of a normal hit is less likely than when the second start hole opening support state is "State B (present)", and the opening and closing mode of the second start hole is less favorable than when the second start hole opening support state is "State B (present)" (for example, 0.3S x 1 time).

(About the special pattern change table)
60 shows the special symbol variation pattern table in the second embodiment, which is different from the first embodiment mainly in that the variation patterns that can be determined in the low probability game state and the high probability game state, and in the high probability game state, the small win 1 variation and the small win 2 variation are determined. Since the other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, detailed explanations are omitted here.

Here, we will explain why the "special pattern L" is more advantageous to the player than the "special pattern K" which, after a win, results in state A (absent) where the game ball is not allowed to enter the second starting hole 22, but after a win, results in state B (present) where the game ball is allowed to enter the second starting hole 22; why the "special pattern D" is more advantageous to the player than the "special pattern E" which, after a win, results in state A (absent) where the game ball is not allowed to enter the second starting hole 22, but after a win, results in state B (present) where the game ball is allowed to enter the second starting hole 22; and why the "special pattern D" in the second embodiment is advantageous to the player.

Figure 61 shows a state transition diagram in the second embodiment, and Figure 62 shows a schematic diagram in the second embodiment.

(If you win with the special K symbol)
First, an example will be described in which a jackpot is won in a low probability game state and a "special symbol K" is determined. In this case, in a high probability game state after the win, a "left hit" can be performed to pass the game ball through the first start hole 21 and the gate member 20, and the game ball can enter the second start hole 22. Then, the game ball enters the first start hole 21 or the second start hole 22, and for example, a small win is won. At this time, if the "special pattern E" which is easy to determine is determined, the second large prize opening 32 opens "2" rounds in 0.8S, but the second starting opening 22, which is provided directly above the second large prize opening 32 with the same width as the second large prize opening 32, opens and closes in an opening and closing manner of 1.3S opening x 4 (because it is easy to open and close), so most of the game balls rolling in the game area 7 will enter the second starting opening 22, making it difficult to enter the second large prize opening 32 (see FIG. 62(a)). That is, as shown in FIG. 62(a), even if the game ball Y approaches the second large prize opening 32, it will enter the second starting opening 22 due to the protruding second starting opening 22, or it will be bounced by the protruding member of the second starting opening 22, making it difficult to enter the second large prize opening 32. Then, after the small win of "special pattern E" ends, the second starting hole opening support state again becomes state B (present), so although a small win occurs, it tends to continue to be difficult to get the game ball into the second large winning hole 32.

(If you win with the special L pattern)
Next, an example in which a jackpot is won in a low probability game state and the "special symbol L" is determined will be described. In this case, in a high probability game state after the win, the game ball can be made to enter the first start hole 21 by performing "left hit". Then, the game ball enters the first start hole 21, and for example, a small win is won. At this time, if the "special symbol E" which is easy to determine is determined, since the second start hole 22 provided directly above the second large winning hole 32 is not open, the game ball can be made to enter the second large winning hole 32 which could not be entered in the example of the special symbol K (see FIG. 62(b)). That is, as shown in FIG. 62(b), if the game ball Y approaches the second large winning hole 32, it can be made to enter the second large winning hole 32 without being obstructed by the second start hole 22. As described in the first embodiment, the prize ball awarded by having a game ball enter the second starting hole 22 is "2," and the prize ball awarded by having a game ball enter the second large winning hole 32 is "12." Therefore, it can be said that the "special pattern L," which makes it difficult to enter the game ball into the second starting hole 22 but allows the game ball to enter the second large winning hole 32, is more advantageous to the player in terms of making it easier to win more game balls, than the above-mentioned "special pattern K," which makes it possible to enter the game ball into the second starting hole 22 but makes it difficult to enter the game ball into the second large winning hole 32.
In addition, the "special symbol K" remains in the high probability game state/state B (present) even if the "special symbol D" with a selection rate of "10%" is not determined after a win, or the "special symbol L" is not determined after a big win. On the other hand, the "special symbol L" can enter the second big winning hole 32 even if the "special symbol D" or the "special symbol E" is determined after a win, and since the "special symbol L" is in the high probability game state/state A (absent) again after a small win, it tends to continue to be a small win and a state in which the game ball can be entered into the second big winning hole 32. Therefore, the "special symbol L" is more advantageous to the player than the "special symbol K", and the "special symbol D" is more advantageous to the player than the "special symbol E".
Furthermore, in the high probability game state/state B (present), when a small win occurs and the "special pattern D" is determined, the second starting hole opening support state changes from state B (present) to state A (absent), but as described above, since the high probability game state/state A (absent) makes it easier to obtain many game balls, the determination of the "special pattern D" resulting in a small win is advantageous to the player in the second embodiment.
Although not specifically mentioned, once a jackpot is hit and the "special symbol L" is determined, even if a jackpot is hit and the "special symbol K" is determined, the second starting hole opening support state may again be set to state A (none) after the hit.
With this configuration, once the high probability gaming state/state A (none) is reached, an advantageous state can be maintained thereafter for any of the special symbols for small wins and any of the special symbols for big wins (special symbol K, special symbol L), so that the degree of advantage can be varied. Also, a game aimed at reaching the high probability gaming state/state A (none) can be realized, which is expected to further increase interest in the game.
Furthermore, if a jackpot is hit and the "special pattern K" is determined, in any case, after the hit, the second starting hole opening support state may be set to state B (present).

The details of the means and the like described in the gaming machine will now be described.
A start port (e.g., first start port 21, second start port 22) formed in a game area (e.g., game area 7) through which a game ball can flow down, a first special game determination means (e.g., main CPU 101) which determines whether or not a first special game (e.g., big win 1 game) is to be played (e.g., special symbol hit determination process) based on the game ball entering the start port, a second special game determination means (e.g., main CPU 101) which determines whether or not a second special game (e.g., small win game) different from the first special game is to be played (e.g., special symbol hit determination process), and if the result of the determination that the second special game is to be played (e.g., step S105-2-9-4 in FIG. 22 is YES), a first symbol (e.g., special symbols D, F), and a game state control means (e.g., the main CPU 101) capable of controlling game states of a normal game state (e.g., a normal game state) and a specific game state (e.g., a time-saving game state, a high-probability game state) different from the normal game state, wherein, when the first pattern is determined in the specific game state, the game state control means controls the normal game state in a game following the game in which the first pattern is determined, and, when the second pattern is determined in the specific game state, the game state control means controls the specific game state in a game following the game in which the second pattern is determined.

In this embodiment, a pachinko game machine has been used as an example for explanation, but the contents described in this embodiment can also be applied to a reel-type game machine (slot machine), a jan-ball game machine, or an arrange-ball game machine.

Reference Signs List 1 Pachinko game machine 21 First start port 22 Second start port 24 First big prize port 26 Image display device 27 Pattern display device 29 Board lighting device 32 Second big prize port 100 Main control board 101 Main CPU
200: Performance control board 200a: Performance control section 200b: Image and sound control section 200c: Light emission drive control section

Claims (1)

A gaming machine including a main control means and a performance control means capable of receiving a predetermined signal from the main control means,
A starting port formed in a game area through which game balls can flow down;
A reserve storage means for reserve-storing judgment information acquired by the entry of the game ball into the starting hole;
a determination means for determining whether or not a special game advantageous to a player is to be executed based on the determination information;
a hold display means for displaying hold information according to the number of hold memories;
The performance control means includes:
The hold information displayed on the hold display means can be moved and displayed in response to a decrease in the number of the hold memories,
If the number of reserved memories increases and then decreases within a predetermined period of time, the reserved information can be updated and displayed without skipping the process of the change;
When a first number of reserved information is displayed on the reserved display means, if a signal indicating that the number of reserved memories becomes a second number that is several numbers less than the first number is received from the main control means,
Among the displayed pending information of the first number, the pending information corresponding to the first number is erased without being moved and displayed, and the pending information corresponding to a number one larger than the second number is moved and displayed, thereby making it possible to display the pending information corresponding to the second number.
A gaming machine characterized by: