JP7632844B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and in particular to a gaming machine capable of implementing a light guide plate effect using a light guide plate and a movable device effect using a movable device in the effect associated with the win/loss judgment of whether or not the game will transition to a favorable gaming state that is advantageous to the player.

Conventionally, most pachinko machines, which are gaming machines, judge whether or not a jackpot has been awarded when a game ball enters a starting hole, and if the result of the judgment is a jackpot, the big prize entry hole opens, and a jackpot game that is advantageous for the player to acquire prize balls begins. In this type of pachinko machine, a special symbol is changed in response to the judgment of whether or not a jackpot has been awarded, and the result of the judgment is announced by later displaying the special symbol as a confirmed symbol. In this case, since the special symbol is displayed small in the corner of the playing area, an effect display is performed in which a pseudo effect symbol corresponding to the special symbol is displayed in a changing manner on an effect symbol display device provided in the center of the playing area, and the result of the judgment is announced while the effect display heightens the player's expectations for a jackpot.

Furthermore, it has been proposed that conventional pachinko machines be provided with a light guide plate that displays light guide decorations when exposed to a specified light, and that the light guide decorations be displayed in accordance with the performance display to enhance the performance effect of building up the player's anticipation (see, for example, Patent Document 1), or that a movable device with an operable decorative part be provided, and that the movable device be operated in accordance with the performance display to enhance the performance effect of building up the player's anticipation (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP 2016-043100 A JP 2016-028723 A

Pachinko machines equipped with light guide plates and movable accessories used in this way can provide effective effects that leave a strong impression on players, so there is a demand for diversifying the effects of the light guide plates and movable accessories to further improve the effects of the effects. The present invention aims to provide an interesting gaming machine by improving the effects of the light guide plates and movable accessories.

The game of the present invention includes a winning/losing determination means for determining whether or not a game state advantageous to a player will be entered when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
A performance display means for performing a performance display showing a result of the winning/losing determination based on the winning/losing determination;
A light guide plate disposed in front of the performance display means and having a light transmittance that transmits visible light;
A gaming machine equipped with a movable accessory in which a decorative part operates according to the progress of a game,
The light guide plate is configured to perform a light guide plate performance that displays a light guide decoration by receiving light from a light emitting member provided at a predetermined position,
The movable role is configured to perform a movable role performance that activates the decorative part,
According to one of the performance displays based on the winning/losing judgment, a performance that combines the light guide plate performance and the movable role performance can be implemented,
As a performance mode combining the light guide plate performance and the movable prop performance, a first performance mode in which the movable prop performance is performed after the light guide plate performance, and a second performance mode in which the light guide plate performance is performed after the movable prop performance can be performed.
In the first performance mode, the light guide plate performance is implemented as a notice performance that notices the result of the hit/miss judgment in the performance display,
In the second performance mode, the light guide plate performance is implemented as a performance to celebrate the fact that the result of the hit/miss judgment in the performance display is a win,
In addition, in the second performance mode, at least a second performance mode A pattern and a second performance mode B pattern, which are different patterns, can be implemented as an implementation pattern in which the movable role object performance and the light guide plate performance are implemented in cooperation with each other;
The second presentation mode A pattern and the second presentation mode B pattern are characterized in that the rate at which they are implemented varies depending on the game content of the advantageous game state that is implemented when the result of the win/loss judgment is a win.

In the gaming machine of the present invention, the predetermined condition is a condition for starting the variable display of the identification information. In the case of a pinball gaming machine, the identification information is, for example, a special pattern, and the condition is that a random number for determining whether or not a win has been determined is obtained by the entry of a gaming ball into a start hole arranged in the gaming area, and the game is not in a winning gaming state that is favorable for winning a prize ball, and the special pattern is not being displayed variable or confirmed. The predetermined condition may be added or some of the conditions may be removed. The predetermined condition in the case of a reel-type gaming machine is that a gaming medium is inserted into the gaming machine, a bet is made, the reels are not spinning, the start lever is operated with the lottery right obtained, and the gaming medium is not being paid out. The condition may be added or some of the conditions may be removed.

In the gaming machine of the present invention, the advantageous game state that is advantageous to the player is, for example, a jackpot game state that is advantageous for winning prize balls. The result of the win/loss determination may include a small win game state, or a game state that is advantageous for transitioning to the next jackpot game after the jackpot game state ends (for example, a sure-win game state or a time-saving game state).

In the gaming machine of the present invention, the effect display shows the result of the win/loss judgment by, for example, displaying a pseudo effect pattern corresponding to a special pattern in a variable manner and then displaying a confirmed result later.

In the gaming machine of the present invention, it is desirable to arrange the light guide plate in front of the effect display means (the side facing the player) so as to cover the entire display surface. The light guide plate is usually transparent so as not to impede visibility of the display surface of the effect display means. The light guide plate, for example, guides and reflects light incident from the end face of the light guide plate by the light emitted by the light-emitting member, and emits it from the front surface of the plate (the side facing the player) to present a predetermined light-guiding decoration.

In the gaming machine of the present invention, it is desirable to place the movable parts around the performance display means provided on the gaming board. The movable parts can be configured to be movable between an initial position and an operating position where operation can be clearly confirmed. The movable parts are not limited to being placed on the performance display means of the gaming board, but can also be placed on a member such as the front frame of the gaming machine that supports the gaming board.

The combination of the light guide plate effect and the movable role effect in the gaming machine of the present invention can be used as a configuration to notify and congratulate the player on a jackpot game state as a result of a win/loss judgment, or as a notification and congratulations on an advancement to a game state that is favorable for transitioning to the next jackpot game as a result of a win/loss judgment.

In the gaming machine of the present invention, for example, the second presentation mode A pattern and the second presentation mode B pattern can be considered to be a sequential presentation mode in which a light guide plate presentation is performed after the movable role presentation ends, and an overlapping presentation mode in which a light guide plate presentation is started while the movable role presentation is being performed.

The present invention provides the following effects. That is, while the light guide plate effect and the movable role effect are each simple performance actions, by combining the light guide plate effect and the movable role effect, it is possible to provide a notice of the transition to a favorable game state for the player or a congratulatory performance of the transition to a favorable game state, thereby improving the performance effect according to the game. Furthermore, even if the order of the movable role effect and the light guide plate effect is the same, the player can predict the expectation of the game content of the favorable game state according to the timing of the light guide plate effect according to the implementation pattern that links the movable role effect and the light guide plate effect, thereby diversifying the performance and increasing the interest of the game.

In addition, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the light guide plate performance may be provided with multiple types of light guide plate performance patterns with different light guide decoration patterns. For example, the light guide plate performance pattern may be such that the light guide decoration's appearance color is changed using multiple light emitting members with different light emitting colors, or the light guide decoration is changed using multiple light guide plates with different decorations. In the light guide plate performance in the first performance mode, at least a first light guide plate performance pattern and a second light guide plate performance pattern with different light guide decoration patterns can be implemented, and the first light guide plate performance pattern and the second light guide plate performance pattern may have different reliability in predicting the result of the win/loss judgment. On the other hand, in the light guide plate performance in the second performance mode, a third light guide plate performance pattern that celebrates the win is implemented.

This allows for a greater variety of presentations to suit the gameplay, making the game even more exciting.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a front view of a game board used in the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a single upper part used as a movable part in the gaming machine. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a single sword device used as a movable device in the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a single shield device used as a movable device in the gaming machine. A diagram showing the operating state of movable parts implemented in the gaming machine. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the state in which the gaming machine is decorated with light guide plates. FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory view showing the light guide plate alone. FIG. FIG. 2 is an electrical block diagram of the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of special symbols used in the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram regarding a jackpot game carried out on the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram regarding the gaming specifications of the gaming machine. 4 is a flowchart showing the control contents of the "start-up process" executed by the main control device of the gaming machine. 4 is a first flowchart showing the control contents of an "interrupt process" executed by a main control device. 11 is a second flowchart showing the control contents of the "interrupt process" executed by the main control device. 10 is a flowchart showing the control content of an "input determination process" executed in the interrupt process. This is a flowchart showing the control contents of the "special ball entry confirmation process" executed during the input judgment process. This is a flowchart showing the control contents of the "pass/fail determination process" executed during the interrupt process. This is the first flowchart showing the control contents of the ``special chart win/loss determination process'' executed during the win/loss determination process. This is a second flowchart showing the control contents of the ``special chart win/loss determination process'' executed during the win/loss determination process. This is a third flowchart showing the control contents of the ``special chart win/loss determination process'' executed during the win/loss determination process. This is the fourth flowchart showing the control contents of the ``special chart win/loss determination process'' executed during the win/loss determination process. This is the fifth flowchart showing the control contents of the ``special chart win/loss determination process'' executed during the win/loss determination process. 13 is a flowchart showing the control contents of the "variable performance start processing" executed by the sub-integrated control device of the gaming machine. A figure showing a first presentation mode of the presentation implemented by the gaming machine. A figure showing a second presentation mode of the presentation implemented by the gaming machine. This is a first time chart showing the flow of a performance using the movable props and the light guide plate. A figure showing a third presentation mode of the presentation implemented by the gaming machine. This is a second time chart showing the flow of a performance using the movable props and the light guide plate. A figure showing a fourth presentation mode of the presentation implemented by the gaming machine. FIG. 11 is a first explanatory diagram showing the expectation level of a preview performance using the light guide plate. A second explanatory diagram showing the expectation level of the preview performance using the light guide plate. This is a third time chart showing the flow of a performance using the movable props and the light guide plate. An explanatory diagram showing the ratio at which the sequential performance mode and overlapping performance mode using the movable props and the light guide plate are implemented. A figure showing a fifth presentation mode of the presentation implemented by the gaming machine.

[First embodiment]
A gaming machine (pachinko machine) according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, the external configuration of a pachinko machine 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 9.

(1. General Configuration of Pachinko Machine 1)
As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine that can be played by a player and is installed in an amusement facility.

(1-1. Front configuration of pachinko machine 1)
The pachinko machine 1 is structured such that each component is held by an outer frame 10 that is a vertically long fixed outer shell holding frame. A front frame (glass frame) 11 in which a glass plate 110 is fitted and an inner frame 30 (see FIG. 9) are provided so as to be openable and closable via hinges 101, 101 provided at upper and lower positions on the left side of the outer frame 10. The front frame 11 and the inner frame 30 are locked to the outer frame 10 by a cylinder lock 18. By inserting a specified key into the cylinder lock 18 and turning the key clockwise to open the inner frame 30, the front frame 11 can be opened by turning it counterclockwise.
Behind the glass plate 110 of the front frame 11 is a game board 2 (see FIG. 2) held by an inner frame 30 .

Speakers 112, 112 are installed on both the left and right sides of the upper part of the front frame 11, which output game sounds to enhance the entertainment value of the game. The front frame 11 is also equipped with frame-side decorative lamps 113 that light up according to the game status, as well as LEDs that notify of abnormalities in the game.

An upper tray 12 and a lower tray 13 are integrally formed in the lower half of the front frame 11. A launching handle 14 is provided on the right side of the lower tray 13, and by operating the launching handle 14 clockwise, the launching device is activated and game balls supplied from the upper tray 12 are launched toward the game board 2. Prize balls are also paid out onto the upper tray 12.
The lower tray 13 is configured to receive prize balls that have spilled over from the upper tray 12, and by operating a ball removal lever, the game balls accumulated in the lower tray 13 can be transferred to a separate box (dollar box) provided in the game arcade.

This pachinko machine 1 is a so-called CR machine, and is adjacent to a prepaid card unit (CR unit) CR that reads and writes prepaid cards. On the right side of the upper tray 12 of the pachinko machine 1, a ball loan switch 171, a settlement switch 172, and a settlement display of the settlement display device 170 (see Figure 10) are provided. In addition, in the center of the upper tray 12, there is a performance button 15 that can be operated by the player, and a jog dial 16 is provided around the outer periphery.

(1-2. Configuration of the game board of the pachinko machine 1)
As shown in Fig. 2, the game board 2 is detachably attached to the inner frame, and is a structure including a transparent synthetic resin plate so that the back side can be seen, and various parts attached to the plate. The game board 2 has a substantially circular game area 20 surrounded by an outer rail 201 and an inner rail 202. Near the center of the game area 20, a performance pattern display device 46 having an LCD panel that allows the display of a variable pseudo performance pattern for performance is provided on the back side of the game board 2 so that it can be seen through the transparent game board 2. In addition, a windmill and many game nails are planted in the game area 20.

In the game area 20, a normal symbol operation gate 22 is provided to the left of the center case 200, through which game balls can pass and through which a lottery for a normal symbol (hereinafter simply referred to as a normal symbol) is drawn when the game ball passes through the gate.

Directly below the center of the center case 200 is a first special symbol start hole 23, which is always open to game balls and where a ball entry determines whether a first special symbol (hereafter referred to as the first special symbol) has been selected. Directly below this is a second special symbol start hole 24, which determines whether a ball entry determines whether a second special symbol (hereafter referred to as the second special symbol) has been selected. The second special symbol start hole 24 is configured to be openable by a tulip-type opening member. When a regular symbol is selected as a winning symbol and a regular electric device (also referred to as a regular electric device) is activated, the opening member opens in a specified opening mode for a specified time, and a ball can enter (win) only when the opening member is open.

Directly below the second special pattern start hole 24 is a large prize hole 25 that can be opened and closed with an opening and closing plate and is opened for a big win game. The large prize hole 25 is opened in a predetermined opening manner for a predetermined time by the operation of a special electric device, and a ball can enter (win) only when the opening plate is open. Furthermore, when a big win is determined based on the first or second special pattern, the device continuous operation device is activated, and the special electric device is operated continuously. This causes the large prize hole 25 to be opened continuously.

Diagonally below and to the left of the center case 200, there are multiple (four) general prize holes 27 located to the left of the first special prize hole 23 through the large prize hole 25. In addition, an outlet 203 is provided at the bottom of the board directly below the large prize hole 25. The outlet 203 takes in game balls that have been shot but have not entered (won) any of the first special prize hole 23, the second special prize hole 24, the large prize hole 25, or the general prize hole 27.

At the lower right end of the game board 2, outside the outer rail 201, a first special chart display device 281, a first special chart reserved number display device 282, a second special chart display device 283, a second special chart reserved number display device 284, a regular chart display device 285, and a regular chart reserved number display device 286 are arranged.

(1-3. Movable props for the effects of Pachinko machine 1)
The pachinko machine 1 is provided with a plurality of movable parts 60, 61, 62 for performance, which can activate decorative parts according to the progress of the game, in the center case 200 of the game board 20. One of the movable parts, the upper part 60, is arranged in a position along the upper edge of the center case 200. The upper part 60 activates decorative parts consisting of a small LCD panel or the like according to the game. The upper part 60 is usually on standby in an initial position along the upper edge of the center case 200. The upper part 60 is provided so as to be movable to an operating position where it descends from the initial position and protrudes in front of the display area so as to block the display area of the performance pattern display device 46 when it is activated.

The sword role object 61, which is one of the movable roles, is located along the left edge of the center case 200. The sword role object 61 activates a sword-shaped decorative part in response to play. The sword role object 61 is normally on standby in an initial position along the left edge of the center case 200 (when the sword role object 61 is stored in the center case 200). When activated, the sword role object 61 is movable to an operating position (virtual line) where it rotates clockwise from the initial position and protrudes in front of the display area of the performance pattern display device 46 to block the display area.

The shield device 62, which is one of the movable devices, is positioned along the right edge of the center case 200. The shield device 62 activates a shield-shaped decorative part in response to play. The shield device 62 normally waits in an initial position along the right edge of the center case 200. When activated, the shield device 62 rotates leftward from the initial position and is movable to an operating position where it protrudes in front of the display area to block the display area of the performance pattern display device 46.

Figure 3 shows the upper role 60 and its drive mechanism. The upper role 60 is installed on the upper edge of the center case 200 so that it can be raised and lowered vertically. The upper role 60 is driven by an upper role motor 601 as a power source to rotate an upper role gear 602, which causes a rack 603 to move vertically and raise and lower the upper role 60. Note that the symbol 604 in the figure indicates an upper role sensor. The upper role sensor 604 detects that the rack 603 is in the initial position (the upper role 60 is stored in the upper edge of the center case 200 shown in Figure 2).

Figure 4 shows the sword role object 61 and its drive mechanism. The lower end 614 of the sword role object 61 is axially attached to the left edge of the center case 200 so that it can rotate up and down. The sword gear 612 of the sword role object 61 is driven to rotate by the sword role object motor 611 as a power source. The sword role object 61 is configured to be able to swing between an initial position and an operating position with the lower end 614 as a fulcrum by the operation of the sword gear 612 and the sword rack 613 linked thereto. The reference numeral 615 in the figure indicates a sword role object sensor. The sword role object sensor 615 detects that the sword role object 61 is in the initial position (stored in the left edge of the center case 200).

Figure 5 shows the shield role 62 and its drive mechanism. The lower end 626 of the arm 625 of the shield role 62 is axially attached to the right edge of the center case 200 so that it can rotate up and down. The shield role 62 is driven by the shield gear 622, which is driven by the shield role motor 621 as a power source. The shield role 62 is configured to be able to swing between the initial position and the operating position, with the lower end 626 as a fulcrum, by the operation of the shield gear 622 and the shield rack 623 linked thereto. The symbol 624 in the figure indicates a shield role sensor. The shield role sensor 624 detects that the shield role 62 is in the initial position (a state in which it is stored in the right edge of the center case 200).

The operation of the upper role 60, sword role 61, and shield role 62 will be explained with reference to Figure 6. The movable roles 60, 61, and 62 are configured so that the sword role 61 is activated, followed by the shield role 62 and upper role 60. As shown in Figure 6(a), first the sword role 61 rotates clockwise (in the direction of arrow F1) and appears from its initial position along the left edge of the center case 200 to an operating position where it protrudes forward of the display area of the performance pattern display device 46 so as to block the display area.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the shield device 62 rotates counterclockwise (in the direction of arrow F2) and appears from its initial position along the right edge of the center case 200 to an operating position where it protrudes in front of the display area so as to block the display area of the performance pattern display device 46. The upper device 60 then descends (in the direction of arrow F3) and appears from its initial position along the upper edge of the center case 200 to an operating position where it protrudes in front of the display area so as to block the display area of the performance pattern display device 46.

The upper role 60, sword role 61, and shield role 62 remain in their respective operating positions for a predetermined period of time. Then, as the game progresses, the upper role 60 rises and returns to its initial position along the upper edge of the center case 200. The sword role 61 rotates counterclockwise and returns to its initial position within the center case 200. Meanwhile, the shield role 62 rotates clockwise and returns to its initial position within the center case 200. Operation ends when the movable roles 60, 61, and 62 return to their respective initial positions.

(1-4. Light-guiding decoration for the performance of pachinko machine 1)
As shown in Fig. 7, the pachinko machine 1 has a light guide plate 80 arranged on the front side (player side) of the performance symbol display device 46 in the center case 200 of the game board 2, and is configured so that an image (light guide decoration 81) can be displayed by the light guide plate 80 according to the progress of the game. The light guide plate 80 is a conventionally known configuration.

For example, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the light guide plate 80 is made of a transparent synthetic resin plate such as acrylic or polycarbonate, and is formed into a horizontally long, approximately rectangular shape with a predetermined plate thickness, for example, about 5 mm. In this case, the light guide plate 80 has a size and shape that covers the entire front of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46. Normally, the light guide plate 80 is configured to allow the player to enjoy the display image of the performance pattern display device 46 without interfering with the display image of the performance pattern display device 46 when the light guide decoration 81 is not displayed. Note that the light guide plate 80 does not necessarily have to be transparent, and may be colored or translucent as long as it has translucency that transmits visible light.

The light guide plate 80 has light emitters 821 (light emitting members, see FIG. 10) arranged along one side edge 801, which irradiate light into the plate. The light guide plate 80 reflects the light incident from the light emitters 821 with a reflecting portion formed on the plate surface of the light guide plate 80, and emits it to the front of the light guide plate 80, thereby revealing a predetermined light guide decoration 81. In the illustrated example, the light guide decoration 81 is "Tatsuji the Bear," the main character of the pachinko machine 1. In this case, the light guide decoration 81 appears to cover the entire front of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46. By revealing the light guide decoration 81 to cover the entire front of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46 in this way, it is possible to make a strong impression on the player.

The light guide plate 80 is fixed in the center case 200 with the light emitter 821 on one side edge 801 stored in the side edge of the center case 200 on the front side of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46. Of course, the light guide plate 80 is placed in a position that does not interfere with the operation of the upper role 60, sword role 61, and shield role 62 placed in the center case 200. For example, it is desirable to place the light guide plate 80 on the front side of each movable role 60, 61, and 62. It is not limited to this, and it is also possible to place it in the middle position between each movable role 60, 61, and 62 and the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46.

(1-5. Back structure of pachinko machine 1)
9 shows the back of the pachinko machine 1, and the back side of the pachinko machine 1 houses an inner frame 30 to which the game board 2 is detachably attached. The inner frame 30 is hinged to the outer frame 10 at the top and bottom positions of one side edge (right side of FIG. 9) in the same manner as the front frame 11, and is installed so as to be openable and closable. A game ball flow passage is formed in the inner frame 30, and a ball tank 31, a tank rail 32, and a payout unit 33 are provided from the top (upstream), and a payout mechanism is provided in the payout unit 33. With this configuration, when a game ball enters a winning hole of the game board 2, a predetermined number of game balls (prize balls) are paid out from the ball tank 31 through the tank rail 32 by the payout unit 33 through the payout ball flow passage to the upper tray 12. In addition, the payout unit 33, which pays out prize balls, also pays out loan balls paid out by operating the ball loan switch 171.

The back side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a main control device 40, a payout control device 41, a sub-integrated control device 42, a performance symbol control device 43, a launch control device 44, and a power supply board 45. The main control device 40, the sub-integrated control device 42, and the performance symbol control device 43 are provided on the game board 2, and the payout control device 41, the launch control device 44, and the power supply board 45 are provided on the inner frame 30. The launch control device 44 is not shown in Figure 9, but it is provided on the back side of the power supply board 45.

The main control device 40 is provided with an RWM clear switch and a setting key switch. The RWM clear switch is primarily operated when clearing game information and the like stored in the RWM built into the main control device 40. The RWM clear switch may also be located on the payout control device 41 or the power supply board 45.

The main control device 40 is provided with a performance display device consisting of four seven-segment LED displays. By providing the performance display device on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, the pachinko machine 1 can place the performance display device in a position that is not visible to the player during play.

The payout control device 41 is also provided with a fraud notification lamp that lights up an LED when the main control device 40 determines that fraud has occurred, thereby notifying employees of the gaming facility that fraud has occurred.

On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, to the right of the ball tank 31, an external connection terminal board 38 is arranged, and signals indicating the game status and game results are sent to the hall computer 500 (see FIG. 10) by the external connection terminal board 38. Note that, conventionally, two types of external connection terminal boards are used to send signals to the hall computer 500: one for the board (terminals for outputting signals output from the game board side to the hall computer 500) and one for the frame side (terminals for outputting signals output from the outer frame 10, front frame 11, and inner frame 30 to the hall computer 500). However, in this embodiment, signals indicating the game status and game results are sent to the hall computer 500 via a single external connection terminal board 38.

(2. Electrical Configuration of Pachinko Machine 1)
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. The pachinko machine 1 is configured with a main control device 40 that controls the game, and sub-control devices such as a payout control device 41, a sub-integrated control device 42, and a performance pattern control device 43. The main control device 40, the payout control device 41, the sub-integrated control device 42, and the performance pattern control device 43 all have a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input port, an output port, etc., and each of these control devices starts a program consisting of a main routine and a subroutine loaded in the ROM by the CPU in response to an interrupt signal with a 2 ms or 4 ms cycle, and various controls are executed. The main control device 40 also has a random number counter that extracts various random numbers.

In this embodiment, the launch control device 44 is not provided with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. However, this is not limited to this, and the launch control device 44 may be provided with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc.

(2-1. Main Control Device 40)
As shown in Fig. 10, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1 is centered around a main control device 40 that mainly controls the game. The main control device 40 is electrically connected to a hall computer 500 or a test firing device (not shown) via a rear wiring relay terminal board 530 and an external connection terminal board 38. An output signal from the main control device 40 is sent to the hall computer 500 or the test firing device via the rear wiring relay terminal board 530 and the external connection terminal board 38.

A glass frame opening switch 501 that detects whether the front frame 11 (see FIG. 1) is open or not, and an inner frame opening switch 502 that detects whether the inner frame 30 (see FIG. 9) is open or not are connected to the main control device 40 via the rear wiring relay terminal board 530. Note that in the figure, the switches are simply referred to as SW. The glass frame opening switch 501 and the inner frame opening switch 502 output their respective detection signals to the main control device 40.

The main control device 40 is also connected, via the game board relay terminal board 531, to a first special symbol start port switch 503 that detects balls entering the first special symbol start port 23, a second special symbol start port switch 504 that detects balls entering the second special symbol start port 24, a normal symbol operation switch 505 that detects balls entering the normal symbol operation port 22, a general prize port switch 506 that detects balls entering the general prize port 27, and a count switch 507 that detects balls entering the large prize port 25.

The first special symbol start port switch 503, the second special symbol start port switch 504, the normal symbol activation switch 505, the general winning port switch 506, and the count switch 507 each output a detection signal to the main control device 40.

The main control device 40 is further connected to the large prize opening solenoid 510 and the normal power device solenoid 511 via the game board relay terminal board 531. The main control device 40 controls the large prize opening solenoid 510 to open and close the large prize opening 25, and controls the normal power device solenoid 511 to open and close the normal power device (second special chart start opening 24).

The main control device 40 also operates according to the installed program, generates various commands related to the progress of the game based on the above-mentioned detection signals, and outputs commands to the payout control device 41 and the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance pattern control device 43 via the performance relay terminal board 532.

Furthermore, the main control device 40 controls the display of the first special pattern display device 281, the first special pattern reserved number display device 282, the second special pattern display device 283, the second special pattern reserved number display device 284, the regular pattern display device 285, and the regular pattern reserved number display device 286, etc., via the pattern display device relay terminal board 533.

The MPU (Micro Processing Unit) mounted on the main control device 40 mainly comprises a CPU, ROM, RAM, a counter circuit, a timer circuit, and a random number circuit. The CPU, ROM, RAM, counter circuit, timer circuit, and random number circuit are each connected via an internal bus, and the internal bus is communicatively connected to various switches and devices provided in the pachinko machine 1 via an external bus interface.

(2-2. Dispensing control device 41)
Next, the payout control device 41 will be described. The payout control device 41 is connected to the main control device 40 so as to be capable of two-way communication. The payout control device 41 is connected to the glass frame opening switch 501 and the inner frame opening switch 502 via the payout relay terminal board 534 and the back wiring relay terminal board 530. The payout control device 41 transmits information about the winning balls, information about the open/closed state of the front frame 11 and the inner frame 30, etc. to the hall computer 500 or the test firing device (not shown) via the external connection terminal board 38. The payout control device 41 also transmits a firing stop signal to the firing control device 44 to stop the firing of the game balls as necessary.

The dispensing control device 41 is also connected to a bulb-out switch 520, which detects when the bulb tank 31 (see FIG. 9) is empty, via the rear wiring relay terminal board 530. When the bulb-out switch 520 detects that the bulb tank 31 is empty, it outputs a detection signal to the dispensing control device 41.

Furthermore, the payout control device 41 is connected to a payout motor 521 that pays out game balls and a payout switch 522 that detects that game balls have been paid out via a payout relay terminal board 534. The payout control device 41 drives the payout motor 521 in response to commands sent from the main control device 40 to pay out game balls. When the payout switch 522 detects that game balls have been paid out, it outputs a detection signal to the payout control device 41. Furthermore, the payout control device 41 is connected to a full switch 523 that detects when the lower tray 13 is full. When the full switch 523 detects that the lower tray 13 is full, it outputs a detection signal to the payout control device 41.

When a detection signal is input from the out-of-ball switch 520 and when a detection signal is input from the full switch 523, the payout control device 41 stops the payout motor 521. This stops the payout operation of the payout unit 33 to pay out prize balls. The out-of-ball switch 520 continues to output a detection signal until the out-of-ball condition is resolved, and the full switch 523 continues to output a detection signal until the full condition of the lower tray 13 is released. Then, when the input of the detection signals from the out-of-ball switch 520 and the full switch 523 stops, the payout control device 41 resumes driving the payout motor 521.

When the present invention is applied to an enclosed gaming machine in which game balls enclosed within the machine are circulated to play the game, one-way communication may be used from the main control device 40 to the payout control device 41 (in the case of an enclosed gaming machine, since game balls are not paid out, it is preferable to call it a frame control device). In this case, the gaming machine can be configured to be difficult to tamper with.

The payout control device 41 is further connected to the CR unit CR and the settlement display device 170 via the CR unit terminal board 535 so as to be capable of two-way communication. A ball lending switch 171 and a settlement switch 172 operated by the player are connected to the settlement display device 170. The ball lending switch 171 is a switch that is operated when the player requests the lending of game balls, and the settlement switch 172 is a switch that is operated when the player requests settlement.

When the ball lending switch 171 detects an operation by the player, it outputs an operation signal requesting a loan. The loan request signal output by the ball lending switch 171 is input to the CR unit CR via the settlement display device 170, and a loan request signal is sent from the CR unit CR to the payout control device 41. Then, when the payout control device 41 receives the loan request signal from the CR unit CR, it drives the payout motor 521 to pay out game balls and control the display of the balance of the prepaid card inserted in the CR unit CR.

When the settlement switch 172 detects an operation by the player, it outputs an operation signal requesting settlement. The settlement request signal output by the settlement switch 172 is input to the CR unit CR via the settlement display device 170, and the CR unit CR controls the balance management and balance display of the prepaid card inserted into the CR unit CR in response to the settlement request signal.

The payout control device 41 is also provided with a fraud notification lamp, which is an LED that lights up if it is determined that the frequency of balls entering the general winning port 27 is abnormal. When the payout control device 41 receives a fraud command from the main control device 40, it lights up the fraud notification lamp, thereby alerting employees of the gaming facility that fraud may have occurred.

(2-3. Sub-integrated control device 42 and performance pattern control device 43)
The sub integrated control device 42 is connected to the main control device 40 via a performance relay terminal board 532, and enables communication from the main control device 40 to the sub integrated control device 42. The sub integrated control device 42 controls performance based on commands received from the main control device 40. The performance button 15 and jog dial 16 are connected to the sub integrated control device 42. The performance button 15 and jog dial 16 each input their respective detection signals to the sub integrated control device 42 when operated.

The upper role sensor 604, the sword role sensor 615, and the shield role sensor 624 are connected to the sub-integrated control device 42. The upper role sensor 604, the sword role sensor 615, and the shield role sensor 624 input their respective detection signals to the sub-integrated control device 42.

The sub-integrated control device 42 is connected to the speaker 112, various LEDs, lamps 113, upper role motor 601, sword role motor 611, and shield role motor 621. In addition, the light emitter 821 of the light guide plate 80 is connected to the sub-integrated control device 42.

The sub-integrated control device 42 controls the output of sound by driving the speaker 112, and also controls the turning on and off of various LEDs and lamps, including the frame side decorative lamp 113. The sub-integrated control device 42 is provided with a volume adjustment switch that adjusts the volume of the sound output from the speaker 112. The sub-integrated control device 42 controls the volume of the sound output from the speaker 112 based on the operation signal input from the volume adjustment switch.

Furthermore, the sub-integrated control device 42 drives the upper role motor 601, the sword role motor 611, and the shield role motor 621 to control the operation of the upper role 60, the sword role 61, and the shield role 62. Furthermore, the sub-integrated control device 42 controls the turning on and off of the light emitter 821 of the light guide plate 80, etc., to reveal the light guide decoration of the light guide plate 80.

In addition, if the sub-integrated control device 42 determines that the frequency of balls entering the general winning port 27 is abnormal, it issues an error alert via the speaker 112, the frame side decorative lamp 113, and the performance pattern display device 46.

The effect pattern control device 43 is connected to the sub-integrated control device 42 so as to be capable of two-way communication. The sub-integrated control device 42 transmits commands to the effect pattern control device 43 regarding the display mode of pseudo effects that display characters and the pseudo patterns of special charts. Meanwhile, the effect pattern control device 43 displays pseudo effect patterns 700 corresponding to the commands sent from the sub-integrated control device 42 on the LCD panel of the effect pattern display device 46.

(2-4. Launch Control Device 44)
The launch control device 44 is connected to the payout control device 41 and enables communication from the payout control device 41 to the launch control device 44. The launch control device 44 controls the launch motor 526 based on commands sent from the main control device 40 via the payout control device 41 and rotation signals of the launch handle 14, and launches and stops the launch of game balls.

The launch control device 44 is also connected to a launch stop switch 524 provided on the launch handle 14, and a touch switch 525 that detects the player's contact with the launch handle 14. When the touch switch 525 detects the player's contact with the launch handle 14, it inputs a detection signal to the launch control device 44. When a detection signal is input from the touch switch 525, the launch control device 44 launches the game ball. On the other hand, the launch stop switch 524 inputs a detection signal to the launch control device 44 when operated by the player. When a detection signal is input from the launch stop switch 524, the launch control device 44 stops the launch of the game ball, even if a detection signal is input from the touch switch 525.

(2-5. Power supply board 45)
Although not shown, the power supply board 45 includes a power supply circuit, a power receiving circuit, a power failure detection circuit, and a backup power supply circuit. The power supply circuit converts AC voltage supplied from an external AC power supply (main power supply AC 24V) to generate DC voltage. A power switch is provided in the power receiving circuit, and the power supply circuit is connected to the AC power supply via the power receiving circuit. When the power switch is turned on, the power supply circuit is connected to the AC power supply, and the main power supply AC 24V is supplied to the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit then supplies the necessary DC voltage to various control devices, actuators, etc.

The power outage detection circuit monitors the voltage supplied from the power supply circuit. If the supplied voltage falls below a predetermined voltage, the power outage detection circuit determines that the power switch has been switched OFF or that a power outage has occurred, and sets the power outage detection signal output to the main control device 40 and the dispensing control device 41 to a high level (ON). On the other hand, if the voltage supplied from the power supply circuit rises above the predetermined voltage, the power outage detection circuit sets the power outage detection signal to a low level (OFF).

In this embodiment, the power outage detection circuit has been described as transmitting a power outage detection signal to the main control device 40 and the dispensing control device 41, but this is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the power outage detection circuit may be configured to transmit a power outage detection signal to only one of the main control device 40 and the dispensing control device 41, and transmit a power outage command from the main control device 40 to the dispensing control device 41, or from the dispensing control device 41 to the main control device 40.

The backup power supply circuit is composed of a capacitor, etc. The backup power supply circuit charges the DC 5V power generated while the power supply circuit supplies power from the AC power source, and in the event of a power outage, supplies the backup power (DC 5V) to the RWM of the main control device 40 and the RWM of the dispensing control device 41, etc.

In this embodiment, the backup power supply is supplied to the RWM of the main control device 40 and the RWM of the payout control device 41. Therefore, even after the power supply is cut off, the pachinko machine 1 can retain the contents stored in the main control device 40 and the payout control device 41 at the time of the power outage for a certain period of time, such as the game status of the pachinko machine 1 and the number of game balls to be paid out as prize balls.

On the other hand, the backup power supply is not supplied to the RWM of the sub-integrated control device 42. Therefore, when the power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is stopped, the contents stored in the RWM of the sub-integrated control device 42 are erased.

(3. Operation of Pachinko Machine 1)
The operation of the pachinko machine 1 will now be described.

(3-1. Basic Games)
When a game ball enters the normal symbol operation port 22, the pachinko machine 1 extracts multiple random numbers related to the normal symbol hit/miss judgment, and judges whether the normal symbol hit/miss based on the extracted random numbers. Based on the result of this hit/miss judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts the normal symbol fluctuating display on the normal symbol display device 285, and displays the fixed image after a predetermined time.

If the result of the normal winning/losing judgment is a winning combination, the pachinko machine 1 opens the normal power device and allows the ball to enter the second special winning combination opening 24. The opening time and number of times the second special winning combination opening 24 is opened are set to, for example, 1.0 second x 1 time in normal mode, and 3.0 seconds x 1 time in a game mode advantageous to the player (a time-saving game mode described below).

When a game ball enters the first special symbol start hole 23, the pachinko machine 1 extracts multiple random number values related to the hit/miss judgment of the first special symbol, and stores a predetermined number of the extracted random number values as reserved memory for the first special symbol. The pachinko machine 1 then performs a hit/miss judgment based on the reserved random number values, and judges whether it is a big hit or a miss. Based on the result of this hit/miss judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts the variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 281, and displays the final result after a predetermined time has passed. The pachinko machine 1 also starts the variable display of the pseudo performance symbol 700 (see Figure 26) corresponding to the first special symbol on the performance symbol display device 46, and displays the final result after a predetermined time has passed.

Similarly, when a game ball enters the second special symbol start hole 24, the pachinko machine 1 extracts multiple random number values related to the hit/miss judgment of the second special symbol, and stores a predetermined number of the extracted random number values as reserved memory for the second special symbol. The pachinko machine 1 then performs a hit/miss judgment based on the reserved random number value of the second special symbol, and judges whether it is a big hit, a small hit, or a miss. Based on this hit/miss judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 283, and displays the finalized second special symbol after a predetermined time has passed. The pachinko machine 1 also starts the variable display of the pseudo performance symbol 700 corresponding to the second special symbol on the performance symbol display device 46, and displays the finalized symbol after a predetermined time has passed.

The first and second special charts are displayed in small size in the corners of the game board 2. The pachinko machine 1 performs a "special chart hit/miss judgment performance" using pseudo performance patterns 700 corresponding to the first and second special charts on the performance pattern display device 46 provided in the center of the game area 20, and notifies the player of the result of the hit/miss judgment through the special chart hit/miss judgment performance. In the special chart hit/miss judgment performance, the pachinko machine 1 performs a moving display of three pseudo performance patterns 700, and if the result of the hit/miss judgment is a jackpot, the three pseudo performance patterns 700 are stopped with the same pattern. In addition, in the special chart hit/miss judgment performance, the pachinko machine 1 performs a reach performance in which two pseudo performance patterns 700 are stopped with the same pattern and the remaining one pseudo performance pattern 700 is displayed with a moving display, thereby giving the player a sense of expectation that the hit/miss judgment will be a jackpot.

The pachinko machine 1 is configured to prioritize the hit/miss judgment of the second special symbol over the hit/miss judgment of the first special symbol. For example, even if there is a reserved memory of the first special symbol, if the reserved memory of the second special symbol is stored by a ball entering the second special symbol start hole 24, the hit/miss judgment of the reserved memory of the second special symbol is performed before the hit/miss judgment of the reserved memory of the first special symbol. In this case, the fluctuation of the special symbol and the pseudo performance pattern is also performed with priority given to the fluctuation of the second special symbol. Note that, in implementing the present invention, it is not necessary for the game configuration to prioritize the hit/miss judgment of the second special symbol, and a game configuration in which the first special symbol and the second special symbol change simultaneously may also be used.

When the result of the first or second special pattern hit/miss judgment is a hit according to the confirmed display state of the first or second special pattern, the pachinko machine 1 plays a hit game. In this hit game, the pachinko machine 1 opens and closes the big prize opening 25. Specifically, the pachinko machine 1 plays a round game a predetermined number of times, with one round being a series of actions such as closing the big prize opening 25 when a predetermined time (e.g., 29 seconds) has elapsed since the opening of the big prize opening 25 was started, or when the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening 25 since the opening of the big prize opening 25 has reached a specified number of winning balls (9 balls in this embodiment). For example, the big prize game is configured to play 4, 7, 10, or 15 rounds of round games in which the big prize opening 25 is opened in a predetermined opening state.

If the result of the second special symbol hit/miss judgment is a small hit according to the confirmed display state of the second special symbol, the pachinko machine 1 executes a small hit game. In this small hit game, the pachinko machine 1 opens and closes the large prize opening 25. In the small hit game, for example, an opening operation is executed once to open the large prize opening 25 for 1.600 seconds.

In addition, the pachinko machine 1 is configured to be capable of implementing a "notice performance" that notifies the result of the judgment of the first or second special chart during the change in a predetermined reach performance among the special chart hit/miss judgment performances accompanying the change in the first or second special chart before the final display of the first or second special chart. The notice performance includes a "light guide plate performance (see FIG. 7)" in which a light guide decoration 81 is displayed by a light guide plate 80. The "light guide plate performance" notifies the player that there is a high possibility of transitioning to the next stage of special reach (also called SP reach) and that the SP reach may lead to a jackpot, for example, by displaying a light guide decoration 81 on the light guide plate 80 during a normal normal reach (also called N reach). In addition, the pachinko machine 1 may be configured to perform a "light guide plate performance" at the start of the change in addition to the timing of the reach performance. In this case, by performing a "light guide plate effect" at the start of multiple changes as a look-ahead effect based on reserved memory, described below, the player can have hope for a big win even before the reserved memory changes that are the subject of the look-ahead effect. A detailed explanation of the advance notice effect using the "light guide plate effect" will be provided later.

The advance notice performance can be a combination of a "light guide plate performance" and a "movable role performance (see FIG. 6)" that activates the movable role performances 60, 61, and 62. For example, a "light guide plate performance" can be followed immediately by a "movable role performance" to indicate a transition to a SP reach. It is also possible to implement a configuration in which a "movable role performance" is not implemented immediately following a "light guide plate performance", but is implemented after a delay. For example, a "light guide plate performance" is implemented at the start of the fluctuation, and then a "movable role performance" is implemented when the transition to a reach performance occurs, thereby providing a performance that indicates the expectation of a jackpot as the fluctuation performance develops.

Furthermore, the pachinko machine 1 is configured to be able to implement a "celebration performance" that celebrates the transition to a jackpot prior to the start of the jackpot game when a jackpot occurs as a result of a hit/miss determination of the first or second special chart. The celebration performance includes a "light guide plate performance." For example, it is considered that the celebration performance is produced by combining a "movable gadget performance" and a "light guide plate performance." In this case, after the jackpot pattern is displayed as a confirmed hit, a "movable gadget performance" is implemented, followed immediately by a "light guide plate performance." This makes it easy to distinguish between the advance notice performance and the celebration performance. A detailed explanation of the celebration performance using the "light guide plate performance" will be given later.

In addition, the advance notice using the "light guide panel effect" can be used to not only notify the player of the occurrence of a jackpot, but also to notify the player of other useful information besides the jackpot, such as whether or not the game will move to a special mode or a time-saving mode, as described below.

Furthermore, the congratulatory effects using the "light guide plate effects" can be used to congratulate players not only on the occurrence of a jackpot, but also on the occurrence of other useful states for the player, such as whether or not the game will transition to a special mode or time-saving mode, as described below.

(3-2. Game Status)
The pachinko machine 1 is roughly divided into two game states: a game state in which the big prize opening 25 is closed, and a game state in which the big prize opening 25 is open. Furthermore, the game state in which the big prize opening 25 is closed includes a normal game, a probability variation game that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game, and a time-saving game that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game.

Normal play is a play state in which the probability of winning the jackpot based on the hit/miss judgment of the first or second special design is set low, and the normal power support function described below is not provided. In the normal play state, the pachinko machine 1 plays by aiming at the first special design start hole 23.

Probability change play is a game state in which the probability of a jackpot determined by the hit/miss judgment of the first or second special chart is set to a higher probability than normal play. Probability change play is a game that can be transitioned to via jackpot play after the end of a jackpot game, depending on the jackpot pattern (or the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot pattern) determined at the time of the hit/miss judgment that caused the jackpot game. Probability change play is configured to transition to normal play (low probability) when an end condition is met in the game, such as the number of times that the special chart that did not result in a jackpot in succession due to the hit/miss judgment of the first and second special charts has changed reaches a predetermined number of consecutive times (for example, 100 times).

Time-saving play is a game state in which a time-saving function is provided that shortens the average change time of the special chart when determining whether the first or second special chart is a winner, and a normal power support function is provided that increases the probability of winning when determining whether the normal chart is a winner, shortens the change time of the normal chart, and extends the opening time of the normal power device (second special chart start port 24).

The pachinko machine 1 is equipped with multiple types of time-saving games. One of them is a time-saving game that can be transitioned to after a jackpot game ends (also called a time-saving game). The pachinko machine 1 is configured to transition to "a time-saving game" after a jackpot game ends. For example, the pachinko machine 1 can also be configured to transition to a special mode game and a time-saving game after a jackpot game ends.

The pachinko machine 1 also has a special time-saving game (also called b time-saving game) that can be switched from normal play without going through a jackpot game when the number of consecutive variations (small win variations or miss variations) that do not result in a jackpot based on the hit/miss judgment of the first and second special charts in a non-probability variable play (low probability) state after the end of the jackpot game reaches a preset number (also called the number of times that the special time-saving game is reached, for example 900 times). In this case, when the game transitions to the probability variable play after the end of the jackpot game, the number of consecutive variations of the first and second special charts that do not result in a jackpot game is counted after the duration of the probability variable play ends.

The pachinko machine 1 also includes a type of time-saving game (also called c-time-saving game) that can be switched from normal game without going through a jackpot game by determining whether the first or second special chart is a winning combination when a predetermined losing pattern is determined during normal game.

In all these time-saving games, the game transitions to normal play when a termination condition is met, such as the number of consecutive changes in the special chart that have not resulted in a jackpot reaching a predetermined number of consecutive times (e.g., 100 times, 500 times, etc.) based on the hit/miss judgment of the first and second special charts.

Note that, depending on the game configuration, the time-saving game may be configured so that only the normal power support function is provided without shortening the average fluctuation time of the special chart. In particular, in the case of a configuration that provides time-saving without a jackpot game such as "b time-saving game" or "c time-saving game", the rules do not allow the winning probability to be shifted to a high probability without a jackpot game, so in the case of a configuration with such time-saving, it is necessary to configure a time-saving game state without shifting the winning probability of the normal chart to a high probability. For this reason, a state in which it is easy to win the normal power role (second special chart start hole 24) may simply be called a time-saving game. In the time-saving game state, the pachinko machine 1 plays by aiming at the normal power role (second special chart start hole 24).

In this way, the pachinko machine 1, which is equipped with normal play, special probability play, and time-saving play, can transition to either a special probability play/time-saving play state (high probability/time-saving) consisting of special probability play and time-saving play, or a normal/time-saving play state (low probability/time-saving) immediately after the end of a jackpot play. In other words, the machine is configured to always transition to the time-saving play state for a specified period of time immediately after the end of a jackpot play. Furthermore, when the pachinko machine 1 transitions to the normal play state, it transitions to the special time-saving play when the number of consecutive variations of the first and second special charts that do not result in a jackpot reaches the number of times that the special time-saving play has been reached.

(3-3. Special symbols and big wins)
11 and 12, the big win symbol, small win symbol, and miss symbol used in the pachinko machine 1, and the types of big win games set according to the big win symbol will be described. The pachinko machine 1 has 13 types of special symbols, such as "first big win symbol,""second big win symbol,""third big win symbol,""fourth big win symbol,""fifth big win symbol,""small win symbol A,""small win symbol B,""small win symbol C,""small win symbol D,""miss symbol 1,""miss symbol 2,""miss symbol 3," and "miss symbol 4."

As shown in Figs. 11 and 12, the "first jackpot pattern" is a pattern for selecting the "first jackpot". The "first jackpot" is a configuration in which the game state is set to a probability variable game and a time-limited game after the jackpot game ends. In this case, the probability variable game is configured to transition to a non-probability variable game (low probability) when the number of times that the special pattern that did not result in a jackpot in succession reaches a predetermined number of times of probability variable continuation (100 times, see Fig. 13) as described above. On the other hand, the type of time-limited game is "a time-limited game". In "a time-limited game", the time-limited game ends when the number of times that the special pattern that did not result in a jackpot in succession reaches a predetermined number of times of time-limited continuation (100 times, see Fig. 13) as described above. The selection rate of the "first jackpot" when selected at the time of a jackpot is set to 10%. The "first jackpot" transitions to a 4R (round) jackpot game.

For the "First Big Hit", the bonus time-saving play count, which is the condition for granting the bonus time-saving play (b time-saving play), is set to 900 times. In other words, when the jackpot play of the "First Big Hit" ends and the number of fluctuations that do not result in a jackpot after the end of the special bonus play and the "a time-saving play" reaches 900 times, the bonus time-saving play will start from the next fluctuation. Furthermore, for the "First Big Hit", the bonus time-saving play continuation count, during which the bonus time-saving play continues, is set to 500 times. In other words, when the number of fluctuations reaches 500 times during the bonus time-saving play, the bonus time-saving play ends and the normal play state (non-special bonus and non-time-saving play) is resumed.

The "second jackpot symbol" is a symbol that selects the "second jackpot." The "second jackpot" is configured such that the game state is set to a sure-change game and a time-saving game after the jackpot game ends. The type of time-saving game is "a time-saving game." The selection rate of the "second jackpot" when selected at the time of a jackpot is set to 45%. The "second jackpot" transitions to a 10R jackpot game. The "second jackpot" is set to 900 times the number of times the bonus time-saving game is reached, at which the bonus time-saving game is granted. Furthermore, the number of times the bonus time-saving game continues, at which the bonus time-saving game continues, is set to 500 times.

The "third jackpot symbol" is a symbol that selects the "third jackpot." The "third jackpot" is configured such that the game state is set to a sure-change game and a time-saving game after the jackpot game ends. The type of time-saving game is "a time-saving game." The selection rate of the "third jackpot" when selected at the time of a jackpot is set to 5%. The "third jackpot" transitions to a 15R jackpot game. The "third jackpot" is set to 900 times the bonus time-saving game is reached, at which the bonus time-saving game is granted. Furthermore, the "third jackpot" is set to 500 times the bonus time-saving game continues.

The "fourth jackpot pattern" is a pattern that selects the "fourth jackpot." The "fourth jackpot" is configured so that the game state is set to a non-probable time-saving game after the jackpot game ends. The type of time-saving game is "a time-saving game." The selection rate of the "fourth jackpot" when it is selected at the time of a jackpot is set to 30%. The "fourth jackpot" transitions to a 7R jackpot game. The "fourth jackpot" is set to 900 bonus time-saving times at which the bonus time-saving game is granted. In other words, when the number of fluctuations that do not result in a jackpot after the jackpot game of the "fourth jackpot" ends and the "a time-saving game" ends reaches 900, the bonus time-saving game will start from the next fluctuation. Furthermore, the bonus time-saving continuation number of times at which the bonus time-saving game continues is set to 500 times.

The "5th jackpot symbol" is a symbol that selects the "5th jackpot." The "5th jackpot" is configured so that the game state is set to non-probable time-saving game after the jackpot game ends. The type of time-saving game is "a time-saving game." The "5th jackpot" has a 10% selection rate at the time of a jackpot. The "5th jackpot" transitions to a 15R jackpot game. The "5th jackpot" sets the number of bonus time-saving times reached, at which the bonus time-saving game is granted, to 800 times. Furthermore, the number of bonus time-saving times continued, at which the bonus time-saving game continues, is set to 500 times.

The "First Big Hit" through the "Fifth Big Hit" have different game advantages, such as the number of prize balls that can be won according to the number of rounds, and whether or not there is a probability change after the end of the big hit game. For example, the "Third Big Hit" has the most rounds of big hit game play, and the greatest number of prize balls that can be won, and it has the highest advantage for the player because it has a probability change after the end of the big hit game. On the other hand, the "First Big Hit" has the least advantage for the player based on the number of prize balls that can be won.

"Small win pattern A", "Small win pattern B", "Small win pattern C", and "Small win pattern D" are the patterns used to play small win games.

Among "Missing symbol 1", "Missing symbol 2", "Missing symbol 3" and "Missing symbol 4", "Missing symbol 3" and "Missing symbol 4" are the aforementioned predetermined missing symbols and "time-saving symbols". These are symbols that, after the symbol is determined, will set the game state to "c time-saving game" from the next change without going through a jackpot game. The probability of "c time-saving game" occurring is set to, for example, 1/76.

(4. Game Specifications of Pachinko Machine 1)
Next, the basic specifications of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. As shown in Fig. 13, the pachinko machine 1 is configured to be able to change the probability of winning the first and second special symbols according to the setting value. For example, the probability of winning the first and second special symbols in the normal game state at setting value 1 is set to 1/219, 1/214 at setting value 2, 1/209 at setting value 3, 1/204 at setting value 4, 1/199 at setting value 5, and 1/194 at setting value 6. The probability of winning the first and second special symbols in the probability variable game state is set to 1/20, which is the same for all of setting values 1 to 6, regardless of the first and second special symbols.
In this embodiment, the probability of a jackpot in the special probability game state is common to all of the setting values 1 to 6, but this is not limited to the above and may be different for each setting value.

In the pachinko machine 1, a small win is not determined in the hit/miss judgment of the first special pattern. On the other hand, the winning probability of a small win on the second special pattern is set to 175/209 regardless of the normal game state, the special game state, or the setting value. Not limited to this, the winning probability of a small win may be different depending on the normal game state, the special game state, and the setting value.

In pachinko machine 1, the probability of winning a normal prize is constant regardless of the setting value. The probability of winning a normal prize is set to 1/6 in the normal state, and 5/6 in the special play state or time-saving play state.

In pachinko machine 1, the probability of entering the special probability state after a jackpot game ends is set to 60% for both the first special chart and the second special chart. The duration of the special probability state is set to 100 times. This setting means that the special probability state will continue until the number of fluctuations that do not result in a jackpot reaches 100 times.

In the pachinko machine 1, the rate of entering the time-saving play state (time-saving play state A) after the end of a jackpot game is set to 100% for both the first and second special charts. In addition, the continuation of the time-saving play state that is entered after the end of a jackpot game is set to 100 times when the number of times the first and second special charts change display is set to 100 times after the end of the jackpot game. Furthermore, the continuation of the bonus time-saving play state that is entered when the number of times the first and second special charts change display in the non-probability play state (low probability) after the end of the jackpot game reaches the bonus time-saving reach number continues until the number of times the first and second special charts change display reaches the bonus time-saving continuation number of 500 times after the end of the jackpot game.

When a jackpot occurs on the first or second special design of the pachinko machine 1, a jackpot game is played in the large prize opening 25. In the jackpot game, the large prize opening 25 is opened for 4, 7, 10 or 15 rounds. In each round, the large prize opening 25 is opened until the opening time reaches 29 seconds or until the number of balls entering the large prize opening 25 reaches the specified number of 10.

When a small win occurs on the second special chart, the pachinko machine 1 plays a small win game in the large prize opening 25. In the small win game, the large prize opening 25 is opened once for 1.600 seconds.

In the pachinko machine 1, in the non-time-saving play state (normal), the regular power device (second special chart start port 24) opens once for 1.0 second. Also, when a regular chart is won in the time-saving play state, the regular power device (second special chart start port 24) opens once for 3.0 seconds. In this way, the opening time of the regular power device (second special chart start port 24) is configured to change depending on whether the time-saving play state or non-time-saving play state is selected.

Next, we will explain the prize balls. The number of prize balls at the first special prize starting hole 23 is set to three per ball that enters. The number of prize balls at the second special prize starting hole 24 is set to one per ball that enters. The number of prize balls at the large prize hole 25 is set to ten per ball that enters. The number of prize balls at the general prize hole 27 is set to ten per ball that enters.

(5. Start-up process)
Next, the "start-up process" executed by the main control device 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 14. The start-up process is a process executed when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on.

As shown in FIG. 14, the main control unit 40 sets a stack pointer to a stack address as the first process of the startup process (process S1). Next, the main control unit 40 sets the interrupt vector address of the interrupt vector table to the corresponding register (process S2) and also sets the built-in register (process S3). Note that the interrupt vector address is used to specify the start address of the interrupt processing program, which will be described later, in the address space (memory space).

Next, the main control unit 40 reads the register of the input port (process S4) and determines whether the power outage stop signal is OFF or not (process S5). Then, if the power outage detection signal remains ON and a negative determination is made (process S5: No), the main control unit 40 determines that the voltage supplied from the power supply board 45 has not reached the predetermined voltage. In this case, the main control unit 40 returns to process S4 and repeatedly executes processes S4 and S5 until the power outage stop signal is turned OFF.

On the other hand, if the power outage detection signal switches to OFF and the result is positive (Process S5: Yes), the main control unit 40 determines that the voltage supplied from the power supply board 45 has reached or exceeded the predetermined voltage and is in a stable voltage supply state, and permits writing to the RWM built into the main control unit 40 (Process S6).

After process S6, the main control unit 40 executes an initial setting process (process S7). This initial setting process (process S7) mainly sets the transition mode. After that, the main control unit 40 prohibits interrupts (process S8) and executes register evacuation (process S9). Furthermore, the main control unit 40 executes a gaming performance calculation process (process S10) that calculates gaming performance such as base values. In other words, the main control unit 40 performs calculations related to gaming performance outside the area of the RWM built into the main control unit 40.

After process S10, the main control unit 40 executes register restoration (process S11) and allows interrupts (process S12), and returns to process S8. In this way, the main control unit 40 repeatedly executes processes S8 to S12 in the startup process. Meanwhile, the main control unit 40 periodically (e.g., at a processing S cycle of 4m) executes an interrupt process (see FIG. 15) described below, between the time when process S12 is executed and the time when process S8 is executed again.

(6. Interrupt Processing)
Next, the "interrupt process" executed by the main control unit 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 15. As shown in Fig. 15, the main control unit 40 sets a timer and a watchdog timer as the first process executed in the interrupt process (process S21). In process S21, the main control unit 40 sets various timers provided in the main control unit 40 and clears and restarts the watchdog timer.

After process S21, the main control device 40 judges whether the transition mode to which the pachinko machine 1 transitions after power is turned on is the "game stop mode" (process S22). As a result, if it is the "game stop mode" (process S22: Yes), it can be judged that the pachinko machine 1 is in a state in which it is not possible to start playing and is waiting for the power switch to be switched to OFF. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 40 permits an interrupt (process S36) and returns to the startup process (see FIG. 14).

On the other hand, if the mode is not "game stop mode" and the result is negative in process S22 (process S22: No), the main control device 40 executes a timer update process to update various timers provided in the main control device 40 (process S23). Next, the main control device 40 executes an input determination process (process S24), which is a process related to the entry of game balls into various starting holes and various winning holes. Details of the input determination process (process S24) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 17. After process S24, the main control device 40 executes a win/loss determination process (process S25), which is a process related to win/loss determination and jackpot play. Details of the win/loss determination process (process S25) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 19.

After process S25, the main control unit 40 executes a game state setting process (process S26) in which, if the game state has changed, a signal to that effect is sent to the hall computer 500. In process S26, the main control unit 40 sends a signal to the hall computer 500 after a predetermined time has elapsed after, for example, the jackpot game (special game) or winning game (regular game) has ended in the hit/miss determination process (process S25) described above.

When the pachinko machine 1 is connected to a test firing device (not shown), the main control device 40 transmits a test signal indicating that the game state has been changed to the test firing device in process S26.

After process S26, the main control unit 40 performs an error monitoring process (process S27) to monitor whether an error has occurred. Examples of errors that the main control unit 40 monitors in the error monitoring process (process S27) include an open error indicating that the front frame 11 or the inner frame 30 is open, a radio wave error indicating that an abnormal radio wave has been detected by a radio wave sensor (not shown), and a vibration error indicating that an abnormal vibration has been detected by a vibration sensor (not shown).

After process S27, the main control device 40 executes a prize ball command transmission process (process S28) to transmit a prize ball command to the payout control device 41. Then, based on the received prize ball command, the payout control device 41 executes the payout of prize balls set for each of the various starting holes or various winning holes into which the ball entered.

After process S28, the main control device 40 executes a performance data output process (process S29) in which image data, audio data, etc. corresponding to the game content are created during execution, and output to the sub-integrated control device 42. Furthermore, if the main control device 40 detects the occurrence of an error in the error monitoring process (process S27) described above, it will appropriately notify the error by displaying an error on the performance pattern display device 46, lighting or blinking the frame side decorative lamp 113, outputting audio from the speaker 112, etc., depending on the content of the detected error.

After process S29, the main control unit 40 executes an external output process (process S30) to the hall computer 500 via the external connection terminal board 38. In process S30, the main control unit 40 transmits data related to the large prize opening solenoid 510 and the normal power solenoid 511 to the hall computer 500 based on the processing contents of the hit/miss determination process (process S25) described above. Also, in process S30, if the main control unit 40 detects an error in the error monitoring process (process S27) described above, it transmits a security signal to the hall computer 500. Note that if a test firing device is connected to the pachinko machine 1, the main control unit 40 transmits data related to the large prize opening solenoid 510 and the normal power solenoid 511 and a security signal to the test firing device in process S30.

As shown in FIG. 16, after process S30, the main control unit 40 saves the register (process S31) and executes a performance display data creation process (process S32). In process S32, the main control unit 40 creates data to display on the performance display device the calculation results of the performance display calculation process (process S10) executed outside the area of the RWM built into the main control unit 40 during the startup process (see FIG. 14) and the test results of the test firing. After process S31, the main control unit 40 executes register restoration (process S33).

After process S33, the main control unit 40 executes a segment data creation process (process S34). In process S34, the main control unit 40 creates segment data for controlling the light emission of each common (8-bit display area related to an LED segment) of various LEDs provided on the performance display unit in preparation for displaying the data created in process S31 on the performance display unit.

After process S34, the main control unit 40 displays game performance and test firing data on the performance display device as a display process (process S35) for the various display devices. Also, in process S35, the main control unit 40 performs variable display and final display of various patterns on the first special pattern display device 281, the second special pattern display device 283, and the normal pattern display device 285 according to the game status being played. After process S35, the main control unit 40 allows an interrupt (process S36) and returns to the startup process (see FIG. 14).

The main control unit 40 executes the performance display calculation process (process S10) in the startup process (Figure 14), while performing the process related to displaying the calculation results of the performance display calculation process (process S10) in the interrupt process. In this regard, the main control unit 40 executes the performance display calculation process (process S10), which has a large processing volume, in the startup process, thereby preventing interrupt prohibition (process S8, see Figure 14) from being executed before the performance display calculation process (process S10) is completed. On the other hand, the main control unit 40 can improve the efficiency of display control by executing the display process for the performance display device at the same timing as the display process for the first special chart display device 281, etc.

(7. Input Determination Process)
Next, the "input judgment process" (process S24) executed in the interrupt process (see FIG. 15) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 17, the main control device 40 executes a special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) as the first process of the input judgment process (process S24). The special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) is a process executed when a game ball enters the first special ball start hole 23 or the second special ball start hole 24. The details of the special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 18.

After process S101, the main control device 40 executes a normal ball entry confirmation process (process S102). The normal ball entry confirmation process (process S102) is a process that is executed when a game ball enters the normal ball operation port 22.

After process S102, the main control unit 40 executes a winning number count process (process S103). The winning number count process (process S103) is a process executed when a gaming ball enters the large prize opening 25 or the general prize opening 27. Specifically, in process S103, when the count switch 507 or the general prize opening switch 506 detects a gaming ball, the main control unit 40 adds 1 to the value of a counter that counts the number of gaming balls that have entered the large prize opening 25 or the general prize opening 27.

After process S103, the main control unit 40 executes a process for counting the number of outs (process S104). The process for counting the number of outs (process S104) is a process for tallying up the number of outs used to calculate the game performance. Specifically, in process S104, the main control unit 40 adds 1 to the value of a counter that counts the number of outs when the first special symbol start port switch 503, the second special symbol start port switch 504, the normal symbol activation switch 505, the general winning port switch 506, the count switch 507, and the switch that detects balls entering the out port 203 detect a game ball.

After process S104, the main control unit 40 judges whether the frequency of balls entering the general winning opening 27 is abnormal (process S105). Specifically, in process S105, the main control unit 40 judges that cheating has occurred if the number of game balls entering the general winning opening 27 within a predetermined time (e.g., 60 seconds) exceeds a specified number of winning balls (e.g., 10 balls). As a result, if the main control unit 40 judges that the frequency of balls entering is normal and the judgment is negative (process S105: No), it ends this process as is and returns to the interrupt process (see FIG. 15).

On the other hand, if the ball entry frequency is abnormal and the result is a positive judgment (Process S105: Yes), the main control unit 40 sends a fraud notification command to the payout control unit 41 and the sub-integrated control unit 42 (Process S106), and ends this process. In Process S106, the payout control unit 41, which has received the fraud notification command from the main control unit 40, turns on the fraud notification lamp provided on the payout control unit 41.

In addition, the sub-integrated control device 42, which has received a fraud notification command from the main control device 40, issues an error notification by turning on or blinking the frame side decorative lamp 113, outputting a sound from the speaker 112, etc. Furthermore, the performance pattern control device 43, which has received a fraud notification command from the sub-integrated control device 42, displays a warning on the performance pattern display device 46 to the effect that fraud has occurred. The error notification via sound output from the speaker 112 ends 30 seconds after the error notification begins, and the warning display on the performance pattern display device 46 and the error notification by the frame side decorative lamp 113 end 5 minutes after the error notification begins.

(7-1. Special ball entry confirmation process)
Next, the special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) executed in the input judgment process (process S24, see FIG. 17) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 18. The special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) extracts and reserves a plurality of first special ball random numbers according to the entry into the first special ball start hole 23, and extracts and reserves a plurality of second special ball random numbers according to the entry into the second special ball start hole 24. Then, it is a process of transmitting various commands resulting from the entry into the first special ball start hole 23 and the second special ball start hole 24 to the sub-integrated control device 42.

As shown in FIG. 18, the "special ball entry confirmation process" first determines in process S110 whether the first special ball entry port switch 503 has detected a ball entering the first special ball entry port 23. If the determination is negative (process S110: No), the process proceeds to process S115.

If the determination in process S110 is positive (process S110: Yes), then in process S111 it is determined whether the number of reserved memories for the first special image stored in the reserved memory area for the first special image is full (whether the upper limit has been reached). If the determination is positive (process S111: Yes), the process proceeds to process S115.

If the result of the process S111 is negative (process S111: No), the random numbers for determining the jackpot of the first special chart, the random numbers for determining the jackpot pattern, the random numbers for determining the reach, the random numbers for determining the variation pattern, etc. are extracted in process S112. The various extracted random numbers are stored in a temporary memory area of the reserved memory area for the first special chart. Furthermore, the various random numbers stored in the temporary memory area are stored in the main memory area of the reserved memory area for the first special chart as reserved memory for the first special chart. Note that even if the reserved memory number for the first special chart is "0", various random numbers such as the win/lose random number extracted when the game ball enters the first special chart start hole 23 are stored in the same way as when there is a memory number less than the maximum value.

Next, the first special chart pre-reading judgment process is executed in process S113. In this pre-reading judgment process, before the judgment of whether or not it will be a jackpot is made, it is confirmed whether the random numbers for determining a jackpot and the random numbers for determining a jackpot pattern stored in the temporary storage area of the reserved storage area for the first special chart are specific numerical values. For example, it is confirmed whether the specific numerical value is a numerical value that is determined to be a jackpot, a numerical value that is determined to be a super reach or a reach, and further, in the case of a jackpot, whether or not it is a jackpot that is granted a probability variable play, a first time-saving play, or a second time-saving play. In this process, a pre-reading command indicating the judgment result of the pre-reading judgment of the first special chart is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42. After that, in process S114, the reserved memory counter indicating the reserved memory number is incremented, and a reserved number instruction command indicating the incremented value of the reserved memory counter of the first special chart is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42.

It is preferable that the read-ahead command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 when there is a possibility of a jackpot, a reach, or the like. Of course, it may be configured to send a read-ahead command to the sub-integrated control device 42 every time, regardless of the judgment content. In response to the read-ahead command, the sub-integrated control device 42 performs a read-ahead performance on the reserved memory patterns of the performance pattern display device 46, etc., suggesting the possibility of a jackpot or a reach.

In the next process S115, the second special pattern start port switch 504 determines whether or not a ball has entered the second special pattern start port 24. If the determination is negative (process S115: No), the process returns to the input determination process (see FIG. 17) and ends this process.

If the determination in step S115 is positive (step S115: Yes), then in step S116 it is determined whether the number of reserved memories for the second special image stored in the reserved memory area for the second special image is full (whether the upper limit has been reached). If the determination is positive (step S116: Yes), the process returns.

If the result of the process S116 is negative (process S116: No), in process S117, the random numbers for determining the big win of the second special chart, the random numbers for determining the big win pattern, the random numbers for determining the small win pattern, the random numbers for reaching the limit, the random numbers for determining the variation pattern, etc. are extracted. The various extracted random numbers are stored in a temporary memory area of the reserved memory area for the second special chart. Furthermore, the various random numbers stored in the temporary memory area are stored in the main memory area of the reserved memory area for the second special chart as reserved memory for the second special chart. Furthermore, the random numbers stored in the specified memory area are stored as reserved memory. Note that even if the reserved memory number for the second special chart is "0", various random numbers such as the win/lose random number extracted when the game ball enters the second special chart start hole 24 are stored in the same way as when there is a memory number less than the maximum value.

Next, in process S118, a pre-reading judgment process for the second special chart is executed. In this pre-reading judgment process, before a judgment is made as to whether or not a jackpot will be hit, the random numbers for determining a jackpot and the random numbers for determining a jackpot pattern stored in the temporary storage area of the reserved storage area for the second special chart are confirmed to be specific numerical values. For example, as specific numerical values, it is confirmed whether or not the numerical value is a numerical value that is judged to be a jackpot, a numerical value that is judged to be a super reach or a reach, and further, in the case of a jackpot, whether or not it is a jackpot that is granted a sure-change play, a first time-saving play, or a second time-saving play. In this process, a pre-reading command indicating the judgment result of the pre-reading judgment for the second special chart is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42. After that, in process S119, a reserved memory counter indicating the reserved memory number is incremented, and a reserved number instruction command indicating the incremented value of the reserved memory counter for the first special chart is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42.

It is preferable that the read-ahead command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 when there is a possibility of a jackpot, a reach, or the like. Of course, it may be configured to send a read-ahead command to the sub-integrated control device 42 every time, regardless of the judgment content. In response to the read-ahead command, the sub-integrated control device 42 performs a read-ahead performance on the reserved memory patterns of the performance pattern display device 46, etc., suggesting the possibility of a jackpot or a reach.

In the special ball entry confirmation process (process S101), if the number of reserved memories is not full, the extracted random number is stored in a pre-set temporary memory area, and then the random number stored in the temporary memory area is stored in the main reserved memory area. Not limited to this, if the number of reserved memories is not full, the extracted random number may be stored in the temporary memory area and the main reserved memory area, respectively. Furthermore, when a random number is extracted due to a ball entering the first special ball start hole 23 or the second special ball start hole 24, the extracted random number is stored in the temporary memory area. Then, it is confirmed whether the number of reserved memories is full, and if not, the random number stored in the temporary memory area may be stored in the main reserved memory area. In this case, if the number of reserved memories is full, the random number stored in the temporary memory area is erased.

In the special ball entry confirmation process (process S101), the look-ahead determination process looks ahead and determines the random numbers stored in the temporary memory area, but it is not limited to this and may also look ahead and determine the random numbers stored in the subject's reserved memory area.

(8. Correct/incorrect decision process)
Next, the winning/losing determination process (process S25) executed in the interrupt process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 19. As shown in Fig. 19, the main control device 40 executes a winning/losing determination process (process S200) for the normal game, which is a process related to the winning/losing determination of the normal game and the winning game (normal game), as the first process executed in the winning/losing determination process (process S25).

In addition, in process S200, the main control device 40 also executes processing related to the winning game of the normal map (normal map game) according to the winning/losing judgment of the normal map. In this case, if the result of the winning/losing judgment of the normal map is a win, the main control device 40 performs control processing of the normal map game to open and close the normal electricity device in a predetermined manner. In this normal map game processing, when a normal map hit occurs due to the winning/losing judgment of the normal map, the main control device 40 opens the normal electricity device in a predetermined opening manner after the start interval time has elapsed. Then, the main control device 40 performs processing to close the normal electricity device when a specified number of balls enter the normal electricity device or the opening end time has elapsed. On the other hand, if the winning/losing judgment of the normal map does not result in a winning/losing judgment of the normal map, the normal electricity device is not opened and the process returns to the winning/losing judgment processing (process S25, see FIG. 19).

Next, the main control device 40 executes a special pattern win/loss determination process (process S300), which is a process related to the win/loss determination of the first or second special pattern, the small win game, and the big win game. Next, the details of the special pattern win/loss determination process (process S300) will be explained with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figures 20 to 24.

(8-1. Special drawing right or wrong judgment processing)
As shown in Fig. 20, the "special winning/losing determination process" first checks whether the special electric device is not in operation in process S300 to determine whether or not a jackpot game is in progress. If the result is negative (process S300: No), the process proceeds to "special game process" (process S400) (see Fig. 21).

If the determination is affirmative in step S300 (step S300: Yes), then in step S301 it is determined whether the first or second special symbol is stopped from changing. If the determination is affirmative (step S301: Yes), then in step S302 it is determined whether the determined symbol of the first or second special symbol is not yet displayed.

If the determination in step S302 is positive (step S302: Yes), then in step S303 it is determined whether or not there is a reserved memory of the second special design. If the determination is positive (step S303: Yes), then in step S304 the number of reserved memories of the second special design is subtracted, and a shift process of the reserved memories is performed. As a result of this shift process, the oldest reserved memory among the reserved memories of the second special design becomes the subject of the determination of whether or not it is true.

If the determination is negative in the process S303 (process S303: No), a determination is made in process S305 as to whether or not there is a reserved memory of the first special drawing. If the determination is positive (process S305: Yes), the number of reserved memories of the first special drawing is subtracted in process S306, and a shift process of the reserved memories is performed. As a result of this shift process, the oldest reserved memory among the reserved memories of the first special drawing becomes the subject of the judgment of whether or not it is correct.

Following the process S304 or S306, in process S310 shown in FIG. 21, the probability bonus flag is checked to determine whether the current game state is a probability bonus game state of the special chart. If the determination is positive (process S310: Yes), in process S311, a determination is made by comparing the winning/losing determination table during the probability bonus (high probability) with the random number for determining a winning jackpot in the reserved memory that is the subject of the winning/losing determination.

If the result of step S310 is negative (step S310: No), step S312 compares the table for determining whether or not the game has won with the random number for determining whether or not the game has won, which is stored in the reserved memory and is the subject of the determination.

Next, in process S313, it is determined whether the result of the process S311 or the process S312 is a jackpot or not.
If the judgment is affirmative (step S313: Yes), in step S314, the jackpot symbol is determined based on the random number for determining the jackpot symbol in the reserved memory that is the subject of the win/loss judgment.
Next, in process S315, a fluctuation pattern such as the fluctuation time of the jackpot pattern of the special chart is determined based on the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern of the reserved memory that is the subject of the hit/miss judgment.

After the variation pattern is determined, a jackpot setting process is performed in process S316. In this process, the content of the jackpot game is set based on the jackpot pattern determined above. In addition, it is set whether the game state will transition to a certain variable game state or to a time-saving game state after the jackpot game ends, and when transitioning to a certain variable game state, the number of times that the certain variable game will continue is set, and when transitioning to a time-saving game state, the number of times that the time-saving game will continue is set. Furthermore, in this process, the number of times that the bonus time-saving game will be reached, the number of times that the variation switch will be reached, the number of times that the bonus time-saving game will continue, the time for the jackpot start presentation of the jackpot game executed by the presentation pattern display device 46, the time for the jackpot end presentation, etc. are set.

Next, in process S317, information on the reserved memory after the correct/incorrect determination is performed (for example, information indicating a decrease in the reserved memory after the correct/incorrect determination is performed) is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42.
In the next process S318, the first special symbol display device 281 or the second special symbol display device 283 is controlled to start changing the symbols, and a symbol change start command and a symbol designation command are sent to the sub-integrated control device 42, and the process proceeds to "special game process" (process S400). The change start command and symbol designation command include the change pattern of the special symbol, the result of the judgment of whether the special symbol is a hit or a miss, etc. Depending on the configuration, a symbol determination command may be sent to indicate the end of the change time. However, this is not essential since the change time is designated in advance by the change pattern, etc.

If the result of the process S313 is negative (Process S313: No), a determination is made in Process S320 as to whether the result of the process S311 or the process S312 is a small win or not. If the result of the process S311 or the process S312 is positive (Process S320: Yes), a small win pattern is determined in Process S321 based on the random number for determining the small win pattern of the second special pattern that is the subject of the win/loss determination.

Next, in process S322, a variation pattern such as the variation time of the small win pattern of the second special chart, which is the subject of the hit/miss judgment, is determined from a preselected variation pattern table for variations other than at the time of a big win.

Next, in process S323, a small win setting process is performed. In this process, based on the determined small win pattern, the contents of the small win game, the time of the small win start presentation of the small win game performed by the presentation pattern display device 46, the time of the small win end presentation, etc. are set. After that, the process S317 and the process S318 are executed, and then the process returns.

If the result of the process S320 is negative (process S320: No), the first or second special chart is determined to be a miss, so the missing symbol of the second special chart is determined in process S325, and the fluctuation pattern, such as the fluctuation time of the missing symbol, is determined from a preselected fluctuation pattern table for fluctuations other than at the time of a jackpot in process S326, based on the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern of the second special chart that is the subject of the hit/miss judgment. Next, a miss setting process is performed in process S327. After that, the process S317 and the process S318 are executed, and then the process returns.

If the determination is negative in the process S301 shown in Fig. 20 (process S301: no), it is confirmed whether the symbol variation time has elapsed in process S330 as shown in Fig. 22. If the determination is negative (process S330: no), the process proceeds to "special game process" (process S400, see Fig. 21).
If the result is positive (process S330: Yes), in the determined symbol display process of process S331, control is performed to end the variable display of the special symbol of the first special symbol display device 281 or the second special symbol display device 283. After that, the process proceeds to "special game process" (process S400).

If the determination is negative in the process S302 shown in FIG. 20 (process S302: No), then in process S340, as shown in FIG. 23, it is determined whether or not the determined symbol display time for the first special symbol or the second special symbol has elapsed. If the determination is negative (process S340: No), the process proceeds to "special game process" (process S400, see FIG. 21).

On the other hand, if the judgment is positive (Process S340: Yes), in Process S341, control is performed to terminate the display of the confirmed pattern of the first special pattern by the first special pattern display device 281 or the display of the confirmed pattern of the second special pattern by the second special pattern display device 283, and a command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 to terminate the confirmed display of the pseudo performance pattern corresponding to the first special pattern or the second special pattern.

Next, in process S342, it is determined whether the symbols on the first special chart or the second special chart are a combination that will result in a jackpot. If the determination is positive (process S342: Yes), it is determined in process S343 whether the special chance flag, which indicates a special chance game state, is "1". If the determination is negative (process S343: No), the process proceeds to process S345. If the determination is positive (process S343: Yes), the special chance flag is reset to "0" in process S344.

In process S345, it is determined whether the time-saving flag indicating the time-saving game state is "1". If the determination is negative (process S345: No), the process proceeds to process S347. If the determination is positive (process S345: Yes), the time-saving flag is reset to "0" in process S346.

The time-saving flag is a flag that indicates that the game state is in a time-saving game state, and when it is set (the flag value becomes "1"), the game state is changed to the time-saving game state. On the other hand, when it is released (the flag value becomes "0"), the game state is changed to the non-time-saving game state.

These processes reset the game state regarding the special mode and time-saving mode during jackpot play to the normal game state.

Next, in process S347, the operation of the condition device is started. The condition device is operated when the first or second special symbol is judged to be a jackpot and the jackpot symbol is displayed as a confirmed jackpot, thereby establishing the conditions for starting the jackpot game, and is a device necessary for the operation of the device for continuously operating the role in the jackpot game.

In the next process S348, the continuous operation device for the reels is operated. Furthermore, the special electric reels are operated in response to the operation of the continuous operation device for the reels. This makes it possible to start the jackpot game, and in the next process S349, the jackpot game start process is performed.

In the jackpot game start process, a command to start the jackpot game and information related to the jackpot game (jackpot opening time, opening pattern, jackpot ending time, number of rounds, etc.) are sent to the sub-integrated control device 42. After that, the process moves to "special game process" (process S400).

If the determination is negative in the process S342 (process S342: No), as shown in FIG. 24, in process S351, it is determined whether or not the patterns on the second special chart are a combination that will result in a small win. If the determination is negative (process S351: No), the process proceeds to process S354. If the determination is positive (process S351: Yes), the process starts the operation of the special electric device in process S352. In the following process S353, the process to start the small win game is performed. In this process, a command to start the small win game and information related to the small win game (small win opening time, opening pattern, small win ending time, etc.) are sent to the sub-integrated control device 42.

Next, in process S354, it is determined whether the time-saving flag is "1". If the determination is negative (process S354: No), the process proceeds to process S358. If the determination is positive (process S354: Yes), the process proceeds to process S355, where the time-saving counter counts the number of times the first special chart and the second special chart have changed after the transition to the time-saving game state. In this case, the number of times the first special chart and the second special chart have changed is the sum of the number of times they have changed.

For example, in this embodiment, the number of times the time-saving game state continues is 100 or 500 (bonus time-saving game (b time-saving)), and it is desirable that the counting process by the time-saving counter subtracts "1" from the count value of the time-saving counter for the number of times continued "100" or "500" each time there is a change other than a jackpot on the first special chart or the second special chart. Not limited to this, the process of counting the number of changes may also be a process of adding "1" to the count value of the time-saving counter from the initial value "0" each time there is a change other than a jackpot on the first special chart or the second special chart.

Next, in process S356, it is determined whether the number of times the first special chart and the second special chart have changed has reached the ending number (100 or 500) at which the time-saving game state ends. That is, it is determined whether the value counted in process S355 is "0" (in an addition configuration, it is determined whether it is 100 or 500). If the determination is negative (process S356: No), the process proceeds to process S358. If the determination is positive (process S356: Yes), the time-saving flag is reset to "0" in process S357. This ends the time-saving game state, and the game state transitions to a non-time-saving game state.

In the next process S358, it is determined whether or not the game state is low probability. If the determination is negative (process S358: No), the process proceeds to process S367. If the determination is positive (process S358: Yes), in process S359, it is determined whether or not the losing symbol set in accordance with the winning/losing determination is a time-saving symbol (losing symbol 3 or losing symbol 4). If the determination is negative (process S359: No), the process proceeds to process S362.

If the result of process S359 is positive (process S359: Yes), the game will transition to a time-saving game state. Therefore, in process S360, a predetermined number of continuations (100 times) according to the time-saving pattern of the losing pattern is set in the time-saving counter. Next, in process S361, the time-saving flag is set to "1". This grants the time-saving game state.

In this case, if the time-saving symbol is Miss Symbol 3 or Miss Symbol 4, the game will transition to a time-saving game state after the special symbol has finished changing. Note that even if the time-saving symbol is displayed in the time-saving game state, the pachinko machine 1 will be invalidated. In other words, a new time-saving game state will not start after the change has ended, but the time-saving game state before the change will continue (the time-saving counter will continue to count).

In the next process S362, the number of times that the variable display of the first special chart and the second special chart that do not result in a jackpot is counted by the bonus time-saving counter since the end of the previous jackpot game. In this case, the count is the total number of times that the variable display of the first special chart and the second special chart that do not result in a jackpot.

For example, the process of counting with the bonus time-saving counter is preferably a process of adding "1" to the count value of the bonus time-saving counter from the initial value "0" each time a change occurs other than a jackpot on the first and second special charts. Not limited to this, the process of counting the number of changes other than a jackpot may be a process of setting the bonus time-saving counter to the number of times (800 or 900) that was determined in advance after the previous jackpot game ended as the count value, and subtracting "1" from the count value each time a change occurs other than a jackpot on the first and second special charts. The bonus time-saving counter is reset (cleared) to its initial value when a jackpot game occurs (see process S349) or when the bonus time-saving number is reached in process S365 described below.

Next, in process S363, it is determined whether the number of fluctuations other than the jackpot of the first special chart and the second special chart has reached the bonus time-saving number of times that grants the time-saving game state. In other words, it is determined whether the count value of the bonus time-saving counter counted in process S362 is the bonus time-saving number of times (in a subtraction configuration, it is determined whether it is "0" or not). If the determination is negative (process S363: No), it proceeds to process S367.

If the result of the process S363 is positive (Process S363: Yes), the process S364 sets the number of times (e.g., 500 times) to which the bonus time-saving game state will continue when the bonus time-saving count is reached. Next, in process S365, the count value of the bonus time-saving counter is reset to the initial value when the bonus time-saving count is reached.

Next, in process S366, the time-saving flag is set to "1". This transitions the game state to a bonus time-saving game state due to the bonus time-saving count being reached. In the bonus time-saving game state, the pattern change time associated with the hit/miss determination of the first and second special symbols is shortened, and a time-saving function for the regular symbols and an extension function for the opening of the regular electric device (second special symbol starting hole 24) are added. On the other hand, the probability of winning a regular symbol is not high.

In this case, if the bonus time-saving count is reached by a small win change display, the bonus time-saving play state will be entered after the small win play ends. On the other hand, if the bonus time-saving count is reached by a miss change display, the bonus time-saving play state will be entered after the special chart changes. As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, even if the bonus time-saving count is reached in the time-saving play state, the transition to the bonus time-saving play state due to this is invalidated. In other words, the time-saving play state before the change is continued (the time-saving counter continues to count) rather than starting a new time-saving play state after the change ends. However, this is just one example, and a configuration in which a bonus time-saving play starts from there when the bonus time-saving count is reached in the time-saving play state, or a configuration in which a transition to the state with a longer number of continuations when a new time-saving play starts in the time-saving play state may be entered. It is sufficient to adopt this as appropriate when determining the playability.

Next, in process S367, a state designation command indicating whether the current game state is a guaranteed variable game state or a time-limited game state or not is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 after the special pattern determination time. Note that the timing for sending the state designation command from the main control device 40 to the sub-integrated control device 42 is after the special pattern determination time, but the state designation command may also be sent when the special pattern starts to change and when the power is restored. Then, the process proceeds to "special game processing" (process S400, see FIG. 21).

If the result of the hit/miss judgment of the first or second special chart is a big hit or a small hit, the main control device 40 performs control processing for the big hit game or small hit game in the special game processing (processing S400) to open and close the big prize opening 25 in a predetermined manner.

In the special game process (process S400), when the result of the win/loss determination (process S311 or S312) indicates a jackpot and the operation of the continuous role-playing device is started (see process S348), the main control device 40 performs jackpot game process, and starts a round game in which the large prize winning opening 25 is opened in a predetermined opening mode after the jackpot start presentation time has elapsed. The main control device 40 then performs a process to close the large prize winning opening 25 and end the round game when a specified number of balls have entered the large prize winning opening 25 or the end of the opening time has elapsed. Then, after a specified number of rounds have been executed, the jackpot game ends. At this time, settings are made for the special bonus game, time-saving game, etc. that will be granted after the jackpot game ends.

In addition, in the special game processing (processing S400), when the result of the hit/miss judgment (processing S311 or S312) is a small hit and the operation of the special electric device is started (see processing S352), the main control unit 40 performs small hit game processing and starts a small hit game in which the large winning opening 25 is opened in a predetermined opening mode after the small hit start performance time has elapsed. The main control unit 40 then performs processing to close the large winning opening 25 and end the small hit game when a specified number of balls have entered the large winning opening 25 or the opening end time has elapsed.

On the other hand, if the winning combination is neither a big win nor a small win, the main control device 40 does not perform the big win game processing or the small win game processing in the special game processing (processing S400) and returns to the win/loss determination processing (processing S25, see FIG. 19).

(9. Special drawing hit judgment performance (variable performance display))
Next, we will explain the special chart win/loss judgment performance (variable performance display) that is implemented in conjunction with the judgment of whether the first special chart or the second special chart is a win or loss.
The special chart hit/miss judgment performance includes a "notice performance" that notifies the result of the hit/miss judgment of the first or second special chart during the change before the first or second special chart is confirmed, and a "celebration performance" that celebrates the transition to a big hit before the big hit game when a big hit occurs due to the hit/miss judgment of the first or second special chart. Furthermore, the special chart hit/miss judgment performance includes the "light guide plate performance" and the "movable role performance" in the "notice performance" and the "celebration performance".

(9-1. Variable performance start processing)
When the pachinko machine 1 determines whether the first or second special symbol is a hit or miss, the sub-integrated control device 42 controls the special symbol hit or miss determination presentation that is performed according to the variable display of the first or second special symbol. Figure 25 shows the "variable presentation start process" that is executed by the sub-integrated control device 42. The "variable presentation start process" is a part (subroutine) of the program processing that is executed by the sub-integrated control device 42.

The "variable performance start process" is a process that starts the pseudo performance display by receiving a special chart variation start command (process S318, see Figure 21) from the main control device 40. When starting the pseudo performance display, this process determines whether or not to implement a "light guide plate performance" or a "movable role object performance."

As shown in FIG. 25, in the "variation performance start process", the sub-integrated control device 42 first determines whether or not it has received a special chart variation start command from the main control device 40 (process S500). If the determination is negative (process S500: No), this process ends and the process returns to the main routine executed by the sub-integrated control device 42.

If the judgment in process S500 is positive (process S500: Yes), in process S501, the special chart change start command is referenced to judge whether the result of the hit/miss judgment is a jackpot or not. If the judgment is positive (process S501: Yes), the content of the jackpot reach performance is determined in process S502. For example, in the jackpot reach performance determination process of process S502, it is determined whether or not a "preview performance" using a light guide plate performance and a movable role performance is to be implemented as the content of the jackpot reach performance. Furthermore, in the jackpot reach performance determination process of process S502, it is determined whether or not a "celebration performance" using a movable role performance and a light guide plate performance is to be implemented.

Next, in process S503, a jackpot effect pattern (a jackpot pseudo effect pattern) is determined. Note that whether or not to implement a "celebration effect" can be determined in process S503, not just in the jackpot reach effect determination process in process S502.

Next, in process S504, the variable performance start process is executed to start the pseudo performance display of the big win. This process sends a command to the performance pattern control device 43, and the performance pattern display device 46 starts a variable performance using a three-digit pseudo performance pattern under the control of the performance pattern control device 43. Then, the process returns.

If the result of the process S501 is negative (S501: No), in process S505, a special chart change start command from the main control device 40 is used to determine whether or not the result of the hit/miss determination is a miss and a reach performance is to be performed. If the result is positive (process S505: Yes), the content of the miss reach performance is determined in process S506. For example, in the miss reach performance determination process in process S506, it is determined whether or not to perform a "preview performance" using a light guide panel performance. Next, in process S507, a miss performance pattern (miss pseudo performance pattern) is determined. After that, in process S504, a change performance is started to perform a reach performance on a miss.

If the result of the process S505 is negative (Process S505: No), the content of the normal miss effect is determined in Process S508, and then the miss effect pattern (miss pseudo effect pattern) is determined in Process S509. After that, in the process of Process S504, a variable effect that does not perform a reach effect on a miss is started.

(9-2. Variable performance display mode)
When the first special symbol display device 281 or the second special symbol display device 283 starts changing the pattern of the first or second special symbol in accordance with the win/loss judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts changing the pseudo performance symbol corresponding to the first or second special symbol in the performance symbol display device 46. As shown in FIG. 26(a), the display screen of the performance symbol display device 46 displays a pseudo performance symbol 700 consisting of three number symbols corresponding to the change of the first or second special symbol in a large manner in the lower half. In addition, the character image 710 of "Tatsuyoshi the Bear", the main character of the pachinko machine 1, is displayed in the upper right part of the display screen. Then, the first reserved memory display image 721 indicating the presence of the reserved memory of the first special symbol is displayed in the lower left part of the display screen. Similarly, the second reserved memory display image 722 indicating the presence of the reserved memory of the second special symbol is displayed in the lower right part.

When the pseudo performance pattern 700 changes, the pachinko machine 1 progresses to a reach performance if there is a high expectation of a jackpot. In this case, as shown in FIG. 26(b), the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46 displays a reach suggestion display section 731 on the upper left side, and a large reach pseudo performance pattern 701 is displayed in the lower half of the display screen. In the reach pseudo performance pattern 701, the two patterns on both sides stop at the same pattern, and only the central pattern is changing. Note that the example shown shows a "normal reach (also called N reach)."

If the result of the hit/miss judgment of the first or second special chart is a hit (pattern hit), the pachinko machine 1 displays a hit suggestion display section 732 on the upper left side of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46, as shown in FIG. 26(c). Then, a large pseudo-hit performance pattern 702 consisting of three identical patterns corresponding to the hit pattern of the first or second special chart is displayed in the lower half of the display screen. In addition, a broadly smiling "Tatsuyoshi the Bear" is displayed as the character image 710.

If the result of the hit/miss determination is a small hit, the pachinko machine 1 will display a confirmed small hit pseudo performance pattern 703 consisting of three identical small hit patterns corresponding to the small hit pattern of the second special chart in a large size in the lower half of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46, as shown in Figure 26 (d).

The pachinko machine 1 is also configured to be able to develop from N reach (see FIG. 26(b)) to the "SP reach" shown in FIG. 27, as a performance to heighten the player's expectations for a big win. As shown in FIG. 27(a), the SP reach that develops from N reach displays a showdown reach image 741, for example, in which fighter A and fighter B face off against each other, on the display screen of the performance symbol display device 46.

If the result of the judgment is a jackpot, as shown in FIG. 27(b), the display screen of the performance symbol display device 46 displays a SP jackpot suggestion display section 742 such as "Victory, jackpot entry" and also displays a fighting victory jackpot video 743 in which the main character, fighter A, defeats the enemy fighter B.

On the other hand, if the result of the win/loss judgment is a miss, as shown in FIG. 27(c), the display screen of the performance symbol display device 46 displays an SP miss display section 744 such as "Defeat" and a miss symbol 704, and also displays a fighting defeat miss image 745 in which the main character fighter A is defeated by the enemy fighter B.

(9-3. Preview performance (combination of light guide plate performance and movable role object performance, first performance mode))
As shown in Fig. 28 to Fig. 29, the pachinko machine 1 can perform a performance (first performance mode) that combines a light guide plate performance and a movable role performance as a notice performance of whether or not N reach will develop into SP reach. For example, in the notice performance when N reach develops into SP reach, first, as shown in Fig. 28 to Fig. 29 (b), a light guide plate performance is performed in front of the performance pattern display device 46 at the end of N reach ([A] in Fig. 28). Next, as shown in Fig. 28 and Fig. 29 (c), when the light guide plate performance ends, a movable role performance is performed in front of the performance pattern display device 46 ([B] in Fig. 28). After that, as shown in Fig. 28 and Fig. 29 (d), when the movable role performance ends, it develops into SP reach on the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46.

The illustrated example explains the performance when N reach progresses to SP reach, but if N reach does not progress to SP reach, for example, a light guide plate performance is implemented in the middle of the N reach (see Figures 29(a) and (b)), but after the light guide plate performance ends, the N reach continues without a movable role performance.

According to the preview performance of this embodiment, the light guide plate performance is performed at the N reach, which can increase the anticipation of players hoping for the progression to an SP reach. After the light guide plate performance ends, a movable role device performance is performed to suggest the progression to an SP reach, which can further increase the joy of players who expect the progression to an SP reach and the anticipation of players hoping for the SP reach to progress to a jackpot.

(9-4. Blessing performance (combination of movable role performance and light guide plate performance, second performance mode))
Next, a description will be given of a combination of a movable accessory effect and a light guide plate effect (second effect mode) as a congratulatory effect that is performed when a jackpot occurs, using Figures 30 and 31. The congratulatory effect is performed after the jackpot pattern 702 is confirmed and displayed on the effect pattern display device 46 from the SP reach, as shown in Figures 30 to 31 (c).

As shown in Figures 30 and 31(c), after the big win pattern 702 is confirmed by the performance pattern display device 46, a movable role display is performed in front of the performance pattern display device 46 ([E] in Figure 30). Then, as shown in Figures 30 and 31(d), when the movable role display ends, a light guide plate display is performed in front of the performance pattern display device 46 ([C] in Figure 30). Then, the light guide plate display ends, a big win game start display is performed, and the game transitions to the big win game.

In this embodiment, the preview performance is a mode in which a movable prop performance is performed after a light guide plate performance (first performance mode), and the celebration performance is a mode in which a light guide plate performance is performed after a movable prop performance (second performance mode), and the two can be clearly distinguished.

(10. Effects of this embodiment)
The gaming machine of this embodiment has the following configuration. That is, it is a gaming machine equipped with a winning/losing judgment means (S311, S312) that judges whether or not the game state advantageous to the player will be shifted to when a predetermined condition is established, a performance display means 46 that displays the performance result of the winning/losing judgment, a light guide plate 80 that is arranged in front of the performance display means 46 and has optical transparency that transmits visible light, and movable role objects 60, 61, 62 whose decorative parts are activated according to the progress of the game. The light guide plate 80 performs a light guide plate performance that displays the light guide decoration 81 by receiving light from a light emitter 821 provided at a predetermined position. The movable role objects 60, 61, 62 perform a movable role object performance that activates the decorative part. Then, it is possible to perform a performance that combines the light guide plate performance and the movable role object performance according to one performance display based on the winning/losing judgment. As a performance mode combining the light guide plate performance and the movable role performance, a first performance mode in which the movable role performance is performed after the light guide plate performance, and a second performance mode in which the light guide plate performance is performed after the movable role performance are performed can be performed. In the first performance mode, the light guide plate performance is performed as a notice performance that notifies the result of the hit/miss judgment in the performance display. In the second performance mode, the light guide plate performance is performed as a performance that celebrates the fact that the result of the hit/miss judgment in the performance display is a win.

The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment combines the simple presentation operation of the light guide plate with the movable role-playing device presentation, allowing it to provide a notice of the transition to a favorable gaming state for the player or a congratulatory presentation of the transition to a favorable gaming state, thereby improving the presentation effect according to the game, and thus realizing an entertaining gaming machine.

In this embodiment, the notice performance by the first performance mode of the light guide plate performance and the movable role performance is used as a notice performance that develops from N reach to SP reach, but this is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to implement the notice performance by the first performance mode as a notice performance that becomes a jackpot at the end of the SP reach. In this case, it is possible to implement the light guide plate performance during the pattern change at the end of the SP reach, and if the result of the hit/miss judgment is a jackpot, the movable role performance is performed after the light guide plate performance, and the jackpot pattern is displayed as a confirmed display. Of course, if the result of the hit/miss judgment is not a jackpot, the movable role performance is not performed after the light guide plate performance, and the losing pattern is displayed as a confirmed display. In this case, it is desirable to implement the celebration performance in the middle of the start performance of the jackpot game or at the end of it before the start of the first round of the jackpot game to avoid confusion and confusion with the notice performance.

It is also possible to configure the light guide plate performance to be performed when the first or second special chart starts to change, and the movable role performance to be performed at the end of the SP reach, with a gap between the light guide plate performance and the movable role performance. In this case, the light guide plate performance and the movable role performance are not performed consecutively, but the probability of developing into the SP reach is high when the light guide plate performance is performed. Then, the SP reach is configured to perform a performance that determines whether or not it is a big hit (hereinafter, also called a win/loss performance) at the end. In the win/loss performance, it is also possible to perform a movable role performance in which the player is prompted to operate the performance button, and the movable role performance is performed by operating the button or by the passage of a predetermined time, in the case of a big hit, the movable role performance is performed in which the movable role performance is not performed in the case of a loss. In this case, the implementation of the light guide plate performance suggests that the SP reach will develop and the movable role performance will be performed as the win/loss performance, and even if there is a gap in time, the correlation between the light guide plate performance and the movable role performance is strong.

In addition, when implementing a light guide plate performance at the start of a change, it is also possible to implement it at the start of multiple changes as a look-ahead performance based on reserved memory. In that case, it can also have the role of suggesting the possibility that a movable role piece performance will be implemented several changes before the number of changes in the reserved memory that are the subject of the look-ahead, so it is possible to have a relationship between the light guide plate performance and the movable role piece performance.

In addition, as a congratulatory performance of the second performance mode, in the case of an operation mode in which the movable role moves to a position behind the light guide plate and to a position in front of the display screen of the performance pattern display device, it is possible to implement a light guide plate performance with the movable role moving to the front of the display screen as a movable role performance. In that case, it is possible to perform a flashing performance as the light guide plate performance. In this case, when the light source of the light guide plate is turned on, the light guide decoration of the light guide plate is displayed as the light guide plate performance, and when it is turned off, the operation of the movable role can be seen, and the light guide plate performance and the movable role performance can be seen alternately. In addition, if a congratulatory display of the winning is also performed on the display screen of the performance pattern display device, it is possible to congratulate the winning using all the performance means in the center of the game board, such as the light guide plate, the movable role, and the performance pattern display device, and to give the player a high sense of satisfaction. In addition, by performing a performance pattern in which the light guide plate performance and the movable role performance are alternately shown, which is not present in the first performance mode, the player can intuitively recognize that it is a performance different from the advance notice performance of the first performance mode.

In this way, in the first performance mode in which the movable prop performance is performed after the light guide plate performance, the light guide plate performance functions as a notice of the performance of the movable prop performance, and in the second performance mode in which the light guide plate performance is performed after the movable prop performance, not only can the winning be celebrated using only a display means such as a performance pattern display device, but the movable prop and the light guide plate performance work together to celebrate the winning, further enhancing the performance power.

Second Example
A pachinko machine 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Fig. 32. The basic configuration of the pachinko machine 1 according to this embodiment is almost the same as that of the first embodiment, and the following description will focus on the differences.

(11. Preview Effects in the Second Example)
The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is configured to be able to implement multiple types of light guide plate performance patterns with different patterns of displaying the light guide decoration in the light guide plate performance of the advance notice performance indicating whether or not the N reach will progress to an SP reach, and is configured so that the reliability of the advance notice performance differs depending on the light guide plate performance pattern.

In this embodiment, the multiple types of light guide plate performance patterns are one image of the light guide decoration (for example, an image of "Tatsuyoshi the Bear"), but multiple types of luminous colors (decorative colors) of the light guide decoration are provided, and the reliability of the preview performance differs depending on the luminous color. As shown in FIG. 32, four types of performance patterns, "light guide plate performance pattern A" to "light guide plate performance pattern D", can be implemented as light guide plate performance patterns with different luminous colors.

"Light guide plate performance pattern A" is a pattern used for the preview performance (first performance mode), and the decorative color is set to "yellow."
"Light guide plate performance pattern B" is a pattern used for the preview performance (first performance mode), and the decorative color is set to "green."
"Light guide plate performance pattern C" is a pattern used for the preview performance (first performance mode), and the decorative color is set to "red."
"Light guide plate performance pattern D" is a pattern used for a celebration performance (second performance mode), and the decorative color is set to a pattern that changes in the order of yellow, green, and red.

The preview performances "Light guide plate performance pattern A" to "Light guide plate performance pattern C" are configured so that the reliability of the preview increases from "Light guide plate performance pattern A" to "Light guide plate performance pattern C." For example, "Light guide plate performance pattern A" has the lowest reliability, and "Light guide plate performance pattern B" has a higher reliability than "Light guide plate performance pattern A." And "Light guide plate performance pattern C" is the most reliable.

The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment has a single light guide plate 80, and the light emitters 821 arranged on the side edge 801 can emit "yellow," "green," and "red" lights individually, and the light guide plate presentation pattern can be changed by changing the light emission pattern of the light emitters 821.

(12. Effects of this embodiment)
The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment has the same configuration as the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, and in the light guide plate performance of the first performance mode in which the movable role performance is performed after the light guide plate performance, at least a first light guide plate performance pattern (for example, light guide plate performance pattern A) and a second light guide plate performance pattern (for example, light guide plate performance pattern C) with different patterns of light guide decoration can be performed, and the reliability of predicting the result of the hit/miss judgment is different between the first light guide plate performance pattern and the second light guide plate performance pattern. Then, in the second performance mode, the light guide plate performance is performed as a performance that celebrates the result of the hit/miss judgment in the performance display, and in the light guide plate performance of the second performance mode, a third light guide plate performance pattern (for example, light guide plate performance pattern D) that celebrates the win is performed.

According to this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, by combining the light guide plate effect with the movable role object effect, it is possible to provide a notice of the transition to a game state that is advantageous to the player, or a congratulatory effect of the transition to an advantageous game state, thereby improving the presentation effect according to the game. Furthermore, in the light guide plate effect in the first presentation mode, multiple patterns with different decorative colors for the light guide decoration are provided, and the reliability of the prediction of the result of the win/loss judgment differs depending on the pattern, so that a more interesting gaming machine can be provided.

In the above embodiment, the decorative colors of the light guide plate performance pattern are three colors, "yellow," "green," and "red," but this is not limited to this, and the luminous colors may be increased or decreased. Furthermore, the light guide plate performance pattern in the celebration performance is not limited to a performance in which the three colors are changed in sequence, but may be, for example, the luminous color of the light guide decoration is partially changed. For example, it is possible to color-code the light guide decoration image into three colors at the top, middle, and bottom.

Although the configuration has been described in which the light emitting patterns are different between the first and second presentation modes, for example, it is also conceivable that "light guide plate presentation pattern D" can be used in common for both the first and second presentation modes. If the expectation level of "light guide plate presentation pattern D" in the first presentation mode is set to a guaranteed win, then in the first presentation mode, the player will recognize the light emitting color as indicating a guaranteed win, and in the second presentation mode, the player will recognize it as a congratulations with the most valuable presentation pattern, considering that the light emitting color in the first presentation mode has the highest expectation level.

Third Example
A pachinko machine 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Fig. 33. The basic configuration of the pachinko machine 1 according to this embodiment is almost the same as the basic configuration of the first and second embodiments, and the following description will focus on the differences.

(13. Preview Effects in the Third Example)
The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, like the second embodiment, is capable of implementing a number of different light guide plate presentation patterns, each of which has a different pattern for displaying the light guide decoration, in the light guide plate presentation of the advance notice performance indicating whether or not the N reach will progress to an SP reach, and is configured so that the reliability of the advance notice performance differs depending on the light guide plate presentation pattern.

In this embodiment, the multiple types of light guide plate performance patterns are provided with multiple types of light guide decorative images, and the reliability of the preview performance differs depending on the image. In this case, multiple types of light guide plates with different images are arranged in advance on the front side of the performance pattern display device 46. As shown in FIG. 33, four types of performance patterns, "light guide plate performance pattern E" to "light guide plate performance pattern H", can be implemented as light guide plate performance patterns with different images.

"Light guide plate performance pattern E" is a pattern used for the preview performance (first performance mode), and the image is set to "Tatsuji the Bear."
"Light guide plate performance pattern F" is a pattern used for the preview performance (first performance mode), and the image is set to "Fighter B."
"Light guide plate performance pattern G" is a pattern used for the preview performance (first performance mode), and the image is set to "Fighter A."
"Light guide plate effect pattern H" is a pattern used for the celebration effect (second effect mode), and the image is set to "Fighter A'".

The preview performances "Light guide plate performance pattern E" to "Light guide plate performance pattern G" are configured so that the reliability of the preview increases from "Light guide plate performance pattern E" to "Light guide plate performance pattern G." For example, "Light guide plate performance pattern E" has the lowest reliability, and "Light guide plate performance pattern F" has a higher reliability than "Light guide plate performance pattern E." And "Light guide plate performance pattern G" is the most reliable.

The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment has three light guide plates 80, and each light guide plate is irradiated with light from a light emitter attached to it to display an image of one of the light guide decorations, thereby changing the light guide plate presentation pattern.

In addition, although the configuration in which the light guide plate presentation pattern is different between the first presentation mode and the second presentation mode has been described, for example, it is conceivable that the "light guide plate presentation pattern H" is used in common to the first presentation mode and the second presentation mode. If the expectation level of the "light guide plate presentation pattern H" in the first presentation mode is set to winning confirmation, the player will recognize it as a light guide decoration indicating a winning confirmation in the first presentation mode, and in the second presentation mode, the player will recognize it as a congratulations with the presentation pattern with the highest value from the viewpoint that the light guide decoration has the highest expectation level in the first presentation mode.
It is also possible to combine the light guiding decoration of this embodiment with the luminous color of the second embodiment, thereby enabling even more diverse expressions of expectation and blessing to be expressed.

(14. Effects of this embodiment)
The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment has the same configuration as the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, and in the light guide plate performance of the first performance mode in which the movable role performance is performed after the light guide plate performance, at least a first light guide plate performance pattern (for example, light guide plate performance pattern E) and a second light guide plate performance pattern (for example, light guide plate performance pattern F) with different patterns of light guide decoration can be performed, and the reliability of predicting the result of the hit/miss judgment is different between the first light guide plate performance pattern and the second light guide plate performance pattern. Then, in the second performance mode, the light guide plate performance is performed as a performance that celebrates the result of the hit/miss judgment in the performance display, and in the light guide plate performance of the second performance mode, a third light guide plate performance pattern (for example, light guide plate performance pattern H) that celebrates the win is performed.

According to this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, by combining the light guide plate presentation with the movable role piece presentation, it is possible to provide a notice of the transition to a game state that is advantageous to the player, or a congratulatory presentation of the transition to an advantageous game state, thereby improving the presentation effect according to the game. Furthermore, as in the second embodiment, in the light guide plate presentation in the first presentation mode, multiple different patterns of light guide decoration images are provided, and the reliability of the prediction of the result of the win/loss judgment differs depending on the difference in the pattern, so that a more interesting gaming machine can be provided.

[Fourth embodiment]
A pachinko machine 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 34 and 35. The basic configuration of the pachinko machine 1 according to this embodiment is almost the same as that of the first embodiment, and the following description will focus on the differences.

(15. Blessing performance in the fourth embodiment)
The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is configured to provide a plurality of presentation modes in which the movable role effect and the light guide plate effect are implemented in coordination in a congratulatory performance when a jackpot is hit, and for example, different presentation modes in which the start timing of the light guide plate effect implemented according to the movable role effect differs, and to allow the player to predict whether the jackpot game will be advantageous or not based on the start timing of the light guide plate effect.

In this embodiment, the performance modes in which the start timing of multiple types of light guide plate performances differ are a "sequential performance mode" (second performance mode A pattern) in which the light guide plate performance starts [ka] immediately after the movable role object performance [ki] ends, as shown in FIG. 34(a), and an "overlapping performance mode" (second performance mode B pattern) in which the light guide plate performance starts [ku] in the middle of the movable role object performance [ke], as shown in FIG. 34(b).

The pachinko machine 1 is configured to implement different ratios of "sequential presentation mode" and "overlapping presentation mode" in the celebration presentation depending on the content of the jackpot game to which the game transitions upon the occurrence of a jackpot. As shown in FIG. 35, in the "first jackpot," which has the fewest number of rounds of jackpot game and the lowest degree of advantage, the pachinko machine 1 implements the "sequential presentation mode" 90% of the time and the "overlapping presentation mode" 10% of the time. In the "fifth jackpot," which has the next lowest degree of advantage, the pachinko machine 1 implements the "sequential presentation mode" 80% of the time and the "overlapping presentation mode" 20% of the time.

On the other hand, in pachinko machine 1, for the "third jackpot," which has the greatest number of jackpot game rounds and the highest degree of advantage for transitioning to the special time-saving mode, the rate at which the "overlapping presentation mode" is implemented is 90%, and the rate at which the "sequential presentation mode" is 10%. For the "fifth jackpot," which has the next highest degree of advantage, the rate at which the "overlapping presentation mode" is implemented is 80%, and the rate at which the "sequential presentation mode" is 20%. In addition, for the "second jackpot," which has the middle degree of advantage among the five jackpots, pachinko machine 1 sets the rates at which the "overlapping presentation mode" and the "sequential presentation mode" are both 50%.

In this way, it can be predicted that the pachinko machine 1 will have a high advantage in terms of winning a jackpot if the congratulatory performance is an "overlapping performance mode," but on the other hand, it can be predicted that the advantage in terms of winning a jackpot will not be so high if the performance is a "sequential performance mode."

(16. Effects of this embodiment)
The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment has the same configuration as the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, and in addition, in the second presentation mode in which a light guide plate presentation is implemented after a movable role presentation, as if to celebrate the result of the win/lose judgment being a win, it is possible to implement a sequential presentation mode in which a light guide plate presentation is implemented after the movable role presentation has ended, and an overlapping presentation mode in which a light guide plate presentation is started while the movable role presentation is being implemented, and the configuration is such that the proportion of the sequential presentation mode and the proportion of the overlapping presentation mode are implemented differ depending on the game content of the advantageous game state implemented by the win/lose judgment.

According to this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, by combining the light guide plate effect with the movable accessory effect, it is possible to provide a notice of the transition to a favorable gaming state for the player or a congratulatory effect of the transition to a favorable gaming state, thereby improving the presentation effect according to the game. Furthermore, even if the order of the movable accessory effect and the light guide plate effect is the same, the expectation level of the game content of the favorable gaming state can be changed according to the timing of the light guide plate effect, thereby diversifying the presentation and providing a more interesting gaming machine.

Fifth Example
A pachinko machine 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Fig. 36. The basic configuration of the pachinko machine 1 according to this embodiment is almost the same as that of the first embodiment, and the following description will focus on the differences.

(17. Blessing performance in the fifth embodiment)
The congratulatory performance by the second performance mode combining the movable role performance and the light guide plate performance is not limited to the celebration at the time of the occurrence of the big win. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, it is configured to celebrate this promotion while presenting the big win game as if it has been promoted from a game with a low degree of advantage to a game with a high degree of advantage.

For example, in pachinko machine 1, an actual jackpot is more advantageous than the "first jackpot" of 4R, but when the jackpot occurs and when the jackpot game starts, it appears to be the "first jackpot." Then, as shown in FIG. 36(a), in the fourth round of the jackpot, a jackpot 4R image 762 is displayed as if the next round can continue, giving the player hope that the jackpot round will continue.

After that, at the end of the fourth round or at the end of the fourth round, as shown in Fig. 36(b) to Fig. 36(c), a congratulatory effect is performed using movable role effects and light guide plate effects. Then, as shown in Fig. 36(d), in the fourth round of the jackpot, a jackpot 5R image 763 is displayed as if the next round could continue, so that the jackpot round continues.

(18. Effects of this embodiment)
According to this embodiment, the same action and effect as in the first embodiment can be achieved, and the use of the celebratory performance can be expanded by combining the movable role effect with the light guide plate effect, thereby diversifying the performance and providing a more interesting gaming machine.

In this embodiment, the congratulatory effect achieved by combining the movable role effect and the light guide plate effect may be used to congratulate the player when the game is promoted from a non-variable game state to a variable game state, or when the game is promoted from a non-time-saving game state to a time-saving game state.

The gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to the above first to fifth embodiments, and can of course be implemented in various ways without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, the advance notice performance by the first performance mode of the combination of the light guide plate performance and the movable accessory performance may be used not only for the celebration performance, but also for the promotion of the jackpot game from a game with a low degree of advantage to a game with a high degree of advantage, for example, the round promotion performance of the jackpot game, the promotion from a non-variable game state to a variable game state, or the promotion from a non-time-saving game state to a time-saving game state. In addition, in the advance notice performance by the first performance mode, when the movable accessory performance is performed in conjunction with the light guide performance, it is possible to implement the first performance mode A pattern and the first performance mode B pattern, which are different implementation patterns in which the light guide plate performance and the movable accessory performance are performed in conjunction with each other, and it is also possible to make the reliability of the advance notice different between the first performance mode A pattern and the first performance mode B pattern.

Furthermore, the gaming machine of the present invention may be applied to an enclosed gaming machine or a reel gaming machine in which the gaming balls that have been displayed and released are collected inside the gaming machine and released again by the release device, and the number of balls held by the player is managed as data using a storage medium such as an IC card.

1: Pachinko machine, 2: Game board, 20 Game area, 23: First special chart start port, 24: Second special chart start port, 25: Big prize port, 281: First special chart display device, 283: Second special chart display device, 40: Main control device (win/lose determination means), 42: Sub integrated control device, 46: Performance pattern display device (performance display device), 60: Upper role (movable role), 61: Sword role (movable role), 62: Shield role (movable role), 80: Light guide plate, 81: Light guide decoration, 821: Light emitter (light emitting member)

Claims (1)

A win/loss determination means for determining whether or not a game state advantageous to a player will be entered when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
A performance display means for performing a performance display showing a result of the winning/losing determination based on the winning/losing determination;
A light guide plate disposed in front of the performance display means and having a light transmittance that transmits visible light;
A gaming machine equipped with a movable accessory in which a decorative part operates according to the progress of a game,
The light guide plate is configured to perform a light guide plate performance that displays a light guide decoration by receiving light from a light emitting member provided at a predetermined position,
The movable role is configured to perform a movable role performance that activates the decorative part,
A performance that combines the light guide plate performance and the movable role object performance can be implemented according to one of the performance displays based on the win/loss judgment,
As a performance mode combining the light guide plate performance and the movable prop performance, a first performance mode in which the movable prop performance is performed after the light guide plate performance is performed, and a second performance mode in which the light guide plate performance is performed after the movable prop performance are performed can be performed.
In the first performance mode, the light guide plate performance is implemented as a notice performance that notices the result of the hit/miss judgment in the performance display,
In the second performance mode, the light guide plate performance is implemented as a performance to celebrate the fact that the result of the hit/miss judgment in the performance display is a win,
In addition, in the second performance mode, at least a second performance mode A pattern and a second performance mode B pattern, which are different patterns, can be implemented as an implementation pattern in which the movable role object performance and the light guide plate performance are implemented in cooperation with each other;
A gaming machine characterized in that the second presentation mode A pattern and the second presentation mode B pattern are implemented at different rates depending on the game content of the advantageous game state that is implemented when the result of the win/loss judgment is a win.

Images