JP7633664B2 - Ball game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a pinball game machine.

There is a known pinball game machine that develops various stories during the changing display of the special chart or during special play, and that suggests or notifies the result of the jackpot lottery or a transition to a favorable game state depending on the story development. As an example of such a presentation, Patent Document 1 discloses a battle presentation in which an ally character fights an enemy character, and the development of the battle suggests the result of the jackpot lottery or whether the special state will continue, etc., together with the pattern presentation.

JP 2012-192167 A

In the battle presentation disclosed in Patent Document 1, attacks and defenses unfold in stages between friendly and enemy characters. If the situation of the friendly character's battle improves, a game move that is advantageous to the player is suggested, and conversely, if the situation of the friendly character's battle worsens, a game move that is disadvantageous to the player is suggested. However, the suggestion of advantageous or disadvantageous game moves by the battle presentation has become repetitive and lacking in interest.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above problems, and aims to optimally increase the interest of story-based productions.

The invention of claim 1, which was made in consideration of the above problem, is a pinball game machine in which a lottery is held when a ball enters a starting hole, and a jackpot game is played when the lottery is won, and the game state is provided with a normal state and at least one type of bonus state in which the game is more advantageous to the player than the normal state. The game machine is equipped with a transition means for transitioning the game state to the normal state or the bonus state after the jackpot game ends, and a presentation means for performing a specific presentation during the jackpot game that suggests or notifies the player of the game state to be transitioned to after the jackpot game ends. The specific presentation has at least a first stage, a second stage to which the game is transitioned after the first stage, and a third stage to which the game is transitioned after the second stage, and the presentation patterns in the first to third stages are respectively a bonus stage, There are notification patterns that notify the transition to the special state and non-notification patterns that do not notify the transition, and in each of the first to third stages, one of these presentation patterns appears. If a non-notification pattern appears in the first stage, the first stage is followed by a transition to the second stage, and if a non-notification pattern appears in the second stage, the second stage is followed by a transition to the third stage. The types of notification patterns that can appear in the second stage are greater than the types of notification patterns that can appear in each of the first and third stages, and in a specific presentation that is performed during the execution of a jackpot game that transitions to the special state, the probability that a notification pattern will appear first in the second stage is higher than the probability that a notification pattern will appear first in the first or third stage.

According to the above configuration, during a specific presentation, the player cannot expect a notification pattern to appear in the first stage, but if the notification pattern does not appear in the first stage, the game moves to the second stage, where the probability of the notification pattern appearing first is higher. Therefore, the player will not be too disappointed if the notification pattern does not appear in the first stage, and since the notification pattern may unexpectedly appear in the first stage, the player can relax and enjoy the first stage.

On the other hand, the second stage has a greater variety of notification patterns than the first and third stages, making it possible to provide a variety of presentations. Also, in the second stage, the probability of a notification pattern appearing first is higher than in the first and third stages, raising the player's expectations, but on the other hand, if a notification pattern does not appear in the second stage, there is a high possibility that the notification pattern will not appear in a specific presentation. For this reason, the second stage can provide a sense of tension to the player while entertaining them with a variety of presentations.

Even if the notification pattern does not appear in the second stage, there is a possibility that the notification pattern will appear first in the third stage, which can reduce disappointment for the player, and furthermore, if the notification pattern does appear in the third stage, it can provide an element of surprise. Furthermore, if the notification pattern does not appear in the first and second stages and the player becomes disappointed, the player's joy will be increased if the notification pattern appears first in the third stage.

In this way, with the above configuration, in a presentation with a story that unfolds from the first stage to the second and third stages, the player's emotions can be stimulated in different ways at each stage, making for a presentation with a rich variety of effects. This makes it possible to effectively heighten the interest of the presentation with a story.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board of a pachinko machine. FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine. This is a table explaining the winning probability and winning symbols in the jackpot lottery. 3 is a flowchart of a main routine. This is a flowchart for the starting gate winning confirmation process. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the correct/incorrect determination process. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the correct/incorrect determination process. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the correct/incorrect determination process. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the correct/incorrect determination process. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the correct/incorrect determination process. 13 is a flowchart showing jackpot game processing. 13 is a flowchart showing jackpot game processing. 13 is a flowchart showing jackpot game processing. 13 is a flowchart showing jackpot game processing. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of the development of a specific performance. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a presentation screen for a specific presentation. 13 is a flowchart of a first specific performance process.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment, and various forms may be adopted as long as they fall within the technical scope of the present invention.
[Configuration Description]
(1) Overall Configuration As shown in Fig. 1, a pachinko machine 50 of this embodiment has a structure in which each component is held by an outer frame 51 that forms a vertically long fixed outer shell holding frame. Hinges 53 are provided on the top and bottom of the left side of the outer frame 51, and the front frame (glass frame) 52 into which a glass plate 61 is fitted and an inner frame (described below) are held by the hinges 53 so as to be openable and closable relative to the outer frame 51. In addition, behind the glass plate 61 of the front frame 52, a game board 1 (Fig. 2) held by the inner frame is provided.

Speakers 66 are installed on both the left and right sides of the upper part of the front frame 52, which output game sounds to enhance the entertainment value of the game. The front frame 52 is also provided with horizontal frame lamps 65 and upper frame lamps 68 that emit light in response to special effects. The horizontal frame lamps 65 and upper frame lamps 68 are equipped with LEDs that light up in a specified color. In addition, the front frame 52 is also provided with LEDs that alert players to abnormalities during gameplay.

An upper tray 55 and a lower tray 63 are integrally formed at the bottom of the front frame 52. A launching handle 64 is provided on the right side of the lower tray 63. By operating the launching handle 64 clockwise, the launching device is activated and the game balls supplied from the upper tray 55 are launched toward the game board 1.
The lower tray 63 is configured to receive prize balls that have spilled over from the upper tray 55, and by operating a ball removal lever, the game balls that have accumulated in the lower tray 63 can be transferred to a coin box provided in the game parlor. In addition, a game button 67 is provided in the center of the upper tray 55.

This pachinko machine 50 is a so-called CR machine, and is equipped with a prepaid card unit (CR unit) 56 that reads and writes prepaid cards, and is provided with a ball loan button 57, a settlement button 58, and a settlement display device 59 on the right side of the upper tray 55.
In addition, reference numeral 49 in Figure 1 denotes a cylinder lock that locks the front frame 52 and the inner frame to the outer frame 51. When a specified key is inserted into the cylinder lock 49 and the key is turned clockwise, the inner frame is opened, and when the key is turned counterclockwise, the front frame 52 is opened.

As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 1 has a substantially circular game area 3 surrounded by an outer rail 2a and an inner rail 2b. A center case 5 is attached to the center of the game area 3, and a normal symbol activation gate 22 is installed to the right of the center case 5. When a game ball passes through the normal symbol activation gate 22, multiple types of random numbers are extracted for the lottery to determine whether the normal symbol is a winner, and a win/loss determination (normal symbol lottery) is made based on the extracted random numbers.

Directly below the center case 5 is a first start gate 11 where a jackpot lottery (win/lose determination) is conducted with the variable display of a first special symbol (also written as first special symbol or special symbol 1) resulting from the entry of a gaming ball. In addition, to the right of the center case 5 and directly below the normal symbol activation gate 22 is a second start gate 12 where a jackpot lottery is conducted with the variable display of a second special symbol (also written as second special symbol or special symbol 2) resulting from the entry of a gaming ball.

The first starting hole 11 is located in an area (left hitting area) where a game ball launched by a left hit (aiming at the left side of the center case 5) mainly flows down, and the second starting hole 12 is located in an area (right hitting area) where a game ball launched by a right hit (aiming at the right side of the center case 5) mainly flows down.
Therefore, by hitting with the left hand side, the first starting hole 11 can be aimed and hit, and by hitting with the right hand side, the second starting hole 12 can be aimed and hit.

The arrangement of the first and second starting holes 11, 12 is not limited to this, and for example, the first and second starting holes 11, 12 may be arranged vertically below the center case 5, or the first starting hole 11 may be arranged in the right-hand hitting area and the second starting hole 12 in the left-hand hitting area.
The first starting hole 11 is configured so that game balls can enter at all times, but the second starting hole 12 is configured as a normal electric device that is opened by winning a normal pattern lottery, and balls can enter only when it is open. Note that it may be configured so that balls can enter occasionally even when it is closed.

When a game ball enters a first starting hole 11, a plurality of kinds of random numbers corresponding to a first special chart are extracted and stored as a first reserved memory, and when a game ball enters a second starting hole 12, a plurality of kinds of random numbers corresponding to a second special chart are extracted and stored as a second reserved memory.
The second starting hole 12 configured as a normal electric role is opened for a predetermined time when a normal symbol lottery is won.

Furthermore, below the center case 5, to the right of the first starting hole 11 and below the second starting hole 12, there is provided a large prize opening 20 consisting of a special electric device. The large prize opening 20 is located in a position where game balls hit to the right mainly enter. Of course, the location of the large prize opening 20 is not limited to this, and for example, the large prize opening 20 may be located in the left hitting area.

In the area on the left side of the game board 1, there are installed a first special symbol display device 9 and a second special symbol display device 10 each equipped with multiple (e.g., about seven) LEDs, and a first special symbol reserved number display device 23 and a second special symbol reserved number display device 24 each consisting of four LEDs. In addition, in the area on the lower right side of the game board 1, there are installed a normal symbol display device 7 consisting of two LEDs, and a normal symbol reserved number display device 8 consisting of four LEDs.

The first special symbol display device 9 displays special symbol 1, and the second special symbol display device 10 displays special symbol 2. The first and second special symbol display devices 9 and 10 make it impossible or difficult for players to distinguish the special symbols by making the lighting patterns of the LEDs irregular when displaying these special symbols. The arrangement of the LEDs that make up the first and second special symbol display devices 9 and 10 may also be irregular, making it impossible or difficult for players to distinguish the displayed special symbols.

An LCD panel for a performance pattern display device 6 (not shown in its entirety) is disposed in the center of the center case 5 of the game board 1 shown in Figure 2, and on the performance screen of the LCD panel, a pattern performance is performed by displaying changes in the performance patterns, etc., to announce the results of the jackpot lottery corresponding to the first and second special patterns.
The center case 5 is also provided with a warp inlet, a warp gutter, a stage, etc., in a well-known manner.

Further, below the center case 5 and to the left of the first starting hole 11, there are disposed general winning holes 25 to 27. Further, below the second starting hole 12 (in other words, to the right of the first and second large winning holes 20, 21), there is disposed a general winning hole 28, which is configured to allow game balls to enter at all times.
A large number of game pegs are set in the game area 3 of the game board 1, and an outlet is provided at the bottom of the board.

As shown in FIG. 3, the back side of the pachinko machine 50 is configured such that an inner frame 70, which detachably mounts the game board 1, is housed in the outer frame 51. The inner frame 70, like the front frame 52, is connected to a hinge 53 provided on the outer frame 51 at the top and bottom positions of one side edge (the right side in FIG. 3), and is installed so as to be able to open and close. A game ball flow passage is formed in the inner frame 70, and a ball tank 71, a tank rail 72, and a payout unit 73 are provided from above (upstream), and a payout device is provided in the payout unit 73. With this configuration, when a game ball enters the winning hole of the game board 1, a predetermined number of game balls (prize balls) stored in the ball tank 71 are paid out from the payout device, and are paid out through the flow passage to the upper tray 55. In addition, in this embodiment, the payout device is configured to pay out game balls (loan balls) in response to the operation of the ball loan button 57.

The back side of the pachinko machine 50 is provided with a main control device 80, a payout control device 81, a performance symbol control device 82, a sub-integrated control device 83, a launch control device, and a power supply board 85. The main control device 80, the performance symbol control device 82, and the sub-integrated control device 83 are provided on the game board 1, and the payout control device 81, the launch control device, and the power supply board 85 are provided on the inner frame 70. Note that although the launch control device is not shown in Figure 3, the launch control device is located behind the payout control device 81 (on the game board 1 side).

In addition, an external connection terminal board 78 is provided on the right side of the ball tank 71, and signals indicating the game status and game results are sent to a hall computer (not shown) via the external connection terminal board 78.
(2) Electrical Configuration Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 50 will be described. As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 4, the pachinko machine 50 is configured with the main control device 80 as the center. Note that this block diagram does not show so-called relay boards and power supply boards that simply relay signals. Also, although detailed illustrations are omitted, the main control device 80, payout control device 81, performance symbol control device 82, and sub-integrated control device 83 all have a CPU, ROM, RAM, input port, output port, etc. Also, although the launch control device 84 and the power supply board are not provided with a CPU, ROM, or RAM, this is not limited thereto, and the launch control device 84, etc. may be provided with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc.

The main control device 80 receives detection signals from a first start port SW 11a which detects a game ball that has entered the first start port 11, a second start port SW 12a which detects a game ball that has entered the second start port 12, a normal pattern operation SW 22a which detects a game ball that has entered the normal pattern operation gate 22, and a general winning port SW 25a which detects a game ball that has entered the general winning ports 25 to 28.
In addition to this, a detection signal is input from a count SW 20a for counting the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening 20.

The main control unit 80 operates according to a program installed therein, generates various commands related to the progress of the game based on the above-mentioned detection signals, etc., and outputs them to the payout control unit 81 and the sub-integrated control unit 83.
In addition, the main control unit 80 controls the display of the first special pattern display device 9, the second special pattern display device 10, the first special pattern reservation number display device 23, the second special pattern reservation number display device 24, the normal pattern display device 7, and the normal pattern reservation number display device 8, which are connected via the pattern display device relay terminal board 90.

Furthermore, the main control unit 80 controls the opening and closing of the large prize opening 20 by controlling the large prize opening solenoid 20b, and also controls the opening and closing of the second starting opening 12 by controlling the normal power device solenoid 12b.
The main control device 80 is also provided with a setting display device 80a, a RAM clear SW 80b, and a setting key SW 80c. The setting display device 80a, the RAM clear SW 80b, and the setting key SW 80c are arranged in positions where they cannot be seen or operated by the player, and can be seen and operated by opening the inner frame.

The setting display device 80a has a seven-segment LED display or the like. Although details will be described later, the pachinko machine of this embodiment has a setting change function for selecting one of a number of setting values, and the probability of winning a jackpot in the jackpot lottery can be changed in stages according to the selected setting value. The setting display device 80a displays the current setting value. Note that a configuration without the setting display device 80a is also possible. However, in the pachinko machine 50 of this embodiment, as an example, the setting change function is disabled and only one setting value can be selected, so the probability of winning a jackpot in the jackpot lottery cannot be changed. Of course, the setting change function may be enabled and any one of a number of setting values may be set.

The RAM clear SW 80b is a switch for initializing (clearing) the RAM of the main control device 80. The RAM clear SW 80b is also used for changing set values (hereinafter also referred to as setting change).
The setting key SW 80c is a portion into which a setting key can be inserted. The setting key SW 80c has an ON state and an OFF state, and by inserting the setting key into the setting key SW 80c and turning it, it is possible to switch between the ON state and the OFF state. When the setting key SW 80c is in the ON state, it is possible to change the setting of the big win.

Furthermore, the main control device 80 is equipped with a non-volatile memory (for example, an EEPROM) (not shown) for storing the current setting values.
The output signal from the main control device 80 is also output to the test signal terminal, and signals for managing pattern changes, jackpots, etc. are output to the external connection terminal board 78 and sent to the hall computer 87.

The main control unit 80 and the dispensing control unit 81 are capable of two-way communication.
The payout control device 81 operates the payout motor 30 in response to a command sent from the main control device 80 to pay out prize balls. In this embodiment, a detection signal from a payout SW 31 for counting the game balls paid out as prize balls is input to the payout control device 81, and the payout control device 81 counts the prize balls. Alternatively, a detection signal from the payout SW 31 is input to the main control device 80 and the payout control device 81, and both the main control device 80 and the payout control device 81 may count the prize balls.

The payout control device 81 receives signals from the glass frame closing SW 45, inner frame closing SW 46, ball out SW 33, payout SW 31, and full SW 32, and when the full SW 32 receives a signal indicating that the lower tray 63 is full, or when the ball out SW 33 receives a signal indicating that there are few or no game balls in the ball tank 71, it stops the payout motor 30 and stops the payout operation of the prize balls. The full SW 32 and ball out SW 33 are also configured to continue outputting signals until the condition is resolved, and the payout control device 81 resumes driving the payout motor 30 when the signal is no longer output.

The payout control device 81 also communicates with the CR unit 56 via the CR unit terminal board 34 to operate the payout motor 30 and dispense the loaned balls. The paid-out loaned balls are detected by the payout SW 31, and the detection signal is input to the payout control device 81. The CR unit terminal board 34 is also connected to the settlement display device 59 for two-way communication, and the settlement display device 59 is provided with a ball loan button 57 for requesting the loan of game balls and a settlement button 58 for requesting settlement.

In addition, the payout control device 81 transmits information regarding winning balls, information indicating the open/closed status of the frames (inner frame 70, front frame 52), etc. to the hall computer 87 via the external connection terminal board 78, and also transmits a launch stop signal to the launch control device 84.
Although the pachinko machine 50 of this embodiment is configured to pay out game balls, it may be configured as an enclosed type in which prize balls generated in response to winning or the like are stored without being paid out.

The launch control device 84 controls the launch motor 40 to launch the game ball into the game area 3.
In addition to the payout control device 81, the launch control device 84 receives a rotation amount signal from the launch handle 64, a touch signal from the touch SW 38, and a launch stop signal from the launch stop SW 39.
The rotation amount signal is output when the player operates the launch handle 64, the touch signal is output when the player touches the launch handle 64, and the launch stop switch signal is output when the player presses the launch stop SW 39. If the touch signal is not input to the launch control device 84, the game ball cannot be launched, and when the launch stop switch signal is input, the game ball cannot be launched even if the player is touching the launch handle 64.

The sub-integrated control device 83 receives data and commands sent from the main control device 80. The sub-integrated control device 83 does not send data to the main control device 80. It then divides the data into data for performance display control, sound control, and lamp control, sending commands for performance display control to the performance pattern control device 82, and distributing the commands for sound control and lamp control to each control part contained in itself (functional parts as sound control device and lamp control device).

The functional unit as a voice control device controls the voice output from the speaker 66 by activating the sound LSI based on data for voice control, and the functional unit as a lamp control device controls the horizontal frame lamp 65 and the upper frame lamp 68 by activating the lamp driver based on data for lamp control.
In addition, the sub-integrated control device 83 is connected to the game button 67 , and when the player operates the game button 67 , the signal is input to the sub-integrated control device 83 .

The sub-integrated control device 83 is also connected to a haptic device 69 that stimulates the player through touch. The haptic device 69 is provided at a location on the pachinko machine 50 that comes into contact with or is in close proximity to a part of the player's body. Specifically, the haptic device 69 may be provided on, for example, an operation unit such as the game button 67 or a jog dial, the launch handle 64, or the frame of the pachinko machine 50.

The haptic device 69 may vibrate a part of the player's body that is in contact with the part by vibrating the part where the haptic device 69 is provided with an actuator. The haptic device 69 may also press against the part of the player's body that is in contact with or close to the part by, for example, protruding a component with an actuator. In addition, the haptic device 69 may stimulate the player through touch, for example, by blowing air toward the part of the player's body that is in contact with or close to the part.

The sub-integrated control device 83 and the performance pattern control device 82 are capable of two-way communication.
The performance pattern control device 82 controls the performance pattern display device 6 based on the data and commands received from the sub-integrated control device 83 (both of which are sent from the main control device 80 and generated by the sub-integrated control device 83) to display a performance screen such as a display of changing performance patterns (pattern performance).

[Operation Description]
(1) Regarding the setting change function As described above, the pachinko machine 50 of this embodiment is provided with a setting change function, but the setting value is fixed in advance and cannot be changed. It is also possible to set any one of a number of setting values, and the higher the setting value, the higher the probability of a jackpot occurring. The setting value is stored in a non-volatile memory in the main control device 80. When the main control device 80 is powered on, it saves the setting value stored in the non-volatile memory in the RAM, and sets the setting value as the current setting value.

In the pachinko machine 50, the settings are changed by operating the RAM clear SW 80b and the setting key SW 80c when the power is turned on. Specifically, when the RAM clear SW 80b is on and the setting key SW 80c is in the ON state, the main control unit 80 transitions to the setting change mode when the power of the pachinko machine is turned on. In the setting change mode, the current setting value is first displayed on the setting display device 80a, and each time the RAM clear SW 80b is operated, the setting value displayed on the setting display device 80a is changed in sequence. Then, when the setting key SW 80c is operated to the OFF state, the setting value displayed on the setting display device 80a at that time becomes the new current setting value of the pachinko machine 50. At this time, the main control unit 80 saves the new current setting value in a non-volatile memory, and transmits to the sub-integrated control unit 83 a setting value command indicating the current setting value and a setting change command indicating that the setting has been changed.

(2) Overview Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 50 in this embodiment will be described. In the pachinko machine 50, when a jackpot is won in the jackpot lottery, a jackpot game (in other words, a special game) is played. In the jackpot game, the jackpot winning hole 20 is opened for a predetermined total number of rounds (for example, 4R or 10R). After the jackpot game ends, the bonus period begins, and the time-saving function, or the time-saving function and the probability-changing function, are activated until the jackpot lottery is performed a predetermined number of times. Hereinafter, the game state during the bonus period is also referred to as the bonus state.

The probability of winning the jackpot lottery is a function that increases the probability of winning the jackpot lottery. Hereinafter, the game state in which the probability of winning the jackpot function is activated will be referred to as the probability of winning state or high probability state, and the game state in which the probability of winning the jackpot function is not activated will also be referred to as the low probability state. The probability of winning the jackpot lottery in the low probability state and high probability state are 1/300 and 1/30, respectively (see Figure 5 (a)).

On the other hand, the time-saving function is a function that increases the frequency of the second special symbol jackpot lottery. Specifically, when the time-saving function is activated, the variable display time of the special symbol on the special symbol display device is shortened. In this embodiment, when the time-saving function is activated, the electric support function is also activated, making it easier to enter the second starting hole 12. In other words, when the electric support function is activated, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery increases, the opening time of the second starting hole 12 when the normal symbol lottery is won becomes longer, and the variable display time on the normal symbol display device 7 when the normal symbol lottery is performed becomes shorter. Of course, the electric support function may not be activated when the time-saving function is activated. Also, during the time-saving state, the electric support function may be activated without shortening the variable display time of the special symbol. Hereinafter, the game state in which the time-saving function is activated will be referred to as the time-saving state. Also, the game state in which the probability change function and the time-saving function are not activated will be referred to as the normal state.

During the bonus period, the time-saving state is activated, making it easier to land the ball in the second starting hole 12, and the frequency of the second special chart jackpot lottery increases. For this reason, during the bonus period, players hit to the right and aim to land the ball in the second starting hole 12. On the other hand, when the time-saving state is not activated, it is difficult to land the ball in the second starting hole 12. For this reason, when the time-saving state is not activated, players hit to the left and aim to land the ball in the first starting hole 11.

In addition, in the pachinko machine 50, multiple types of special symbols (hereinafter also referred to as jackpot symbols) are provided to be displayed on the first and second special symbol display devices 9 and 10 when a jackpot occurs. In other words, multiple types of jackpots are provided, and the type of jackpot is determined by the jackpot symbol. Then, as shown in FIG. 5(b) and (c), the total number of rounds of the jackpot game and the game state during the bonus period after the jackpot game are determined according to the jackpot symbol. Specifically, each jackpot symbol on the special symbol 1 is divided into special 1 jackpot symbols 1 and 2, and each jackpot symbol on the special symbol 2 is divided into special 2 jackpot symbols 1 to 3. Each of these divisions includes multiple types of jackpot symbols.

A jackpot with a jackpot pattern of Special 1 jackpot pattern 2 or Special 2 jackpot pattern 2, 3 is configured as a special jackpot, and during the bonus period after the jackpot game caused by the special jackpot, the special jackpot function and the time-saving function are activated. On the other hand, a jackpot with a jackpot pattern of Special 1 jackpot pattern 1 or Special 2 jackpot pattern 1 is configured as a normal jackpot, and during the bonus period after the jackpot game caused by the normal jackpot, the special jackpot function is not activated but the time-saving function is activated. Note that if a jackpot occurs due to a specific jackpot pattern, the bonus period does not begin after the jackpot game ends, and the game state after the jackpot game may be the normal state.

In addition, if the jackpot symbol belongs to the special 1 jackpot symbol 2 and the special 2 jackpot symbol 2, 3, the number of times the special period will continue will be 100. On the other hand, if the jackpot symbol belongs to the special 1 jackpot symbol 1 and the special 2 jackpot symbol 1, the number of times the special period will continue will be set to 20, 50, or 100, depending on the jackpot symbol.
The pachinko machine 50 of the present embodiment is not limited to the above configuration, and may be configured as various types of pachinko machines, such as a so-called one-type two-type mixed machine, a limiter machine, etc. In a pachinko machine configured as a one-type two-type mixed machine, a big win or a small win occurs in a big win lottery, a small win game is played in which the big win opening is opened when a small win occurs, and when a game ball that entered the big win opening during the small win game enters a predetermined specific area, a big win game is played.

(3) Time-saving function In the pachinko machine 50 of the present embodiment, when the time-saving start condition set for the jackpot lottery is satisfied, the machine transitions to the time-saving state without playing the jackpot. Specifically, when the time-saving win occurs or the continuous time-saving function is activated, the time-saving start condition is satisfied.
That is, in this embodiment, a time-saving pattern is provided as the first special pattern, and when the time-saving pattern is displayed as a fixed pattern in the variable display of the first special pattern during the normal state, a time-saving win occurs and the state transitions to the time-saving state. As an example, the probability of winning the time-saving win is 1/150 (see FIG. 5(a)). However, this probability can be determined as appropriate. In addition, the number of continuations, which is the number of jackpot lotteries that can be executed during the time-saving state, is 20 times as an example. However, the number of continuations can be determined as appropriate. In addition, multiple time-saving patterns may be provided, and the number of continuations may be determined according to the type of the time-saving pattern that is displayed as a fixed pattern.

In addition, the time-saving pattern may be provided not only for the first special chart but also for the second special chart, so that the time-saving winning may occur in the jackpot lottery for the second special chart. As a result, when the jackpot lottery is held based on the remaining reserves of the second special chart after the time-saving state ends, there is a chance to obtain the time-saving state in addition to the jackpot. Therefore, even if the time-saving state ends without a jackpot, there is still hope that the time-saving state will be restored. In addition, the remaining reserves refer to the reserved memories that exist after the time-saving state ends and that were generated during the time-saving state. Furthermore, the number of times that the time-saving winning of the second special chart continues may be greater than the number of times that the time-saving winning of the first special chart continues. Furthermore, the probability of the time-saving winning of the second special chart may be higher than the probability of the time-saving winning of the first special chart. As a result, the expectation of obtaining the time-saving state by consuming the remaining reserves can be increased.

In addition, when the number of consecutive jackpot draws that have produced a draw result other than a jackpot (in other words, jackpot draws that do not result in a jackpot game) during the low probability state continues, the pachinko machine 50 activates the continuous time-saving function and the time-saving function is activated. The upper limit number may be 800 times, for example. The upper limit number may be appropriately set, for example, in the range of 750 to 900 times. In addition, when the time-saving state is entered by the continuous time-saving function, the number of times that the time-saving state continues is greater than the number of times that the time-saving state continues during the bonus period and the number of times that the time-saving state is entered when the time-saving state is entered. In this embodiment, the number of times that the time-saving state entered by the activation of the continuous time-saving function continues is, for example, 1140 times. However, the number of times that the time-saving state continues may be appropriately set, for example, in the range of 1140 times or less.

(4) Main Routine First, the main routine in the main control device 80 of the pachinko machine 50 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 6. This main routine is started as a timer interrupt process with a 2 ms cycle.
In S10, the main control unit 80 determines whether the main routine has been started by a normal timer interrupt, and if a positive determination is obtained (S10: yes), the process proceeds to S20, and if a negative determination is obtained (S10: no), the process proceeds to S15.

In S15, the main control device 80 performs initial settings for the CPU, I/O, etc., and then proceeds to S70.
On the other hand, if a positive judgment is obtained in S10, the main control unit 80 updates the initial value random number (S20), updates the random number for determining a jackpot (S25), updates the random number for determining a jackpot pattern (S30), updates the random number for determining a win (S35), updates the random number for reach judgment (S40), and updates the random number for determining a variation pattern (S45).

The main control device 80 then performs a winning confirmation process to detect the entry of a game ball into a winning hole such as the starting hole (S50), a winning/losing determination process to draw a jackpot lottery based on the winning ball entering the starting hole (S55), various output processes to send data and commands to the sub integrated control device 83 etc. and to send various information to the hall computer 87 etc. (S60), and a fraud monitoring process to detect fraudulent activity by players (S65).

In addition to this, a normal symbol win/loss determination process is performed in which a normal symbol lottery is held when the game ball passes through the normal symbol activation gate 22, and a normal symbol game process is performed in which a normal symbol game is played by opening a normal electric device (second starting hole 12).
In addition, following the win/lose determination process, a jackpot game process is performed to play a jackpot game.
Also, in S70, the main control unit 80 repeatedly updates the initial random number value until the next timer interrupt occurs and the main routine is started.

(5) Start Port Winning Confirmation Processing Next, the start port winning confirmation processing, which detects winnings at the first and second start ports 11 and 12 and performs reserved storage in response to the winnings, will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 7. This processing is configured as a subroutine called from the winning confirmation processing executed from the main routine.

In S100, the main control device 80 judges, based on the detection signal of the first start hole SW11a, whether or not a game ball has entered the first start hole 11. If the judgment is affirmative (S100: yes), the process proceeds to S105, and if the judgment is negative (S100: no), the process proceeds to S115.
In S105, the main control device 80 judges whether the number of reserved memories (first reserved memories) for the special chart corresponding to the first starting port 11 has reached a maximum value (for example, 4). If the judgment is affirmative (S105: yes), the process proceeds to S115, and if the judgment is negative (S105: no), the process proceeds to S110.

In S110, the main control unit 80 extracts random numbers for determining a jackpot used in the jackpot lottery, random numbers for determining a jackpot pattern to determine a jackpot pattern, random numbers for reaching a target to determine whether a target pattern will be reached in the pattern presentation, and random numbers for determining a change pattern to determine the change time of a special pattern.Then, the main control unit 80 stores the extracted random numbers as a first reserved memory, and generates a first reserved number command indicating how many first reserved memories have been generated and sends it to the sub-integrated control unit 83, and the process proceeds to S115.

In S110, the main control unit 80 determines whether the random number for determining a jackpot related to the first reserved memory (in other words, the first numerical data) is a specific value, and performs a look-ahead to determine whether a jackpot will occur in the jackpot lottery based on the first reserved memory, whether a specific reach will occur in the pattern presentation that notifies the result of the jackpot lottery, and whether a time-saving win will occur, for each of the high probability state and low probability state. Then, a look-ahead command indicating the look-ahead result is transmitted to the sub-integrated control unit 83.

In addition to this, for example, a read-ahead may be performed based on the extracted random number before storing the random number as the first reserved memory, or the extracted random number may be stored in a memory area separate from the memory area provided for the first reserved memory, and a read-ahead may be performed based on the random number stored in the separate memory area.
In S115, the main control device 80 judges, based on the detection signal of the second start hole SW 12a, whether or not a game ball has entered the second start hole 12. If the judgment is affirmative (S115: yes), the process proceeds to S120, and if the judgment is negative (S115: no), the process ends.

In S120, the main control device 80 judges whether the number of reserved memories (second reserved memories) for the special chart corresponding to the second starting port 12 has reached a maximum value (for example, 4). If the judgment is affirmative (S120: yes), the process ends, and if the judgment is negative (S120: no), the process proceeds to S125.
In S125, the main control device 80 extracts random numbers for determining a jackpot, random numbers for determining a jackpot pattern, random numbers for judging a reach, random numbers for determining a variation pattern, etc. Then, the main control device 80 stores the extracted random numbers as second reserved memories, generates a second reserved number command indicating how many second reserved memories have been generated, and transmits it to the sub integrated control device 83, and ends this process.

In addition, the main control unit 80 may perform the above-mentioned look-ahead on the random numbers for determining a jackpot related to the second reserved memory (in other words, the second numerical data) and send a look-ahead command to the sub-integrated control unit 83.
(6) Win/lose determination process Next, the win/lose determination process for performing a jackpot lottery using the jackpot determination random numbers related to the reserved memory will be explained using the flowcharts of Figures 8 to 12. This process is executed from the main routine. After the end of this process, the jackpot game process for playing the jackpot game is executed.

First, in Fig. 8, in S200, the main control device 80 judges whether the consecutive operation device of the role is in operation, i.e., whether a big win game is being played. If the judgment is affirmative (S200: yes), the process ends, and if the judgment is negative (S200: no), the process proceeds to S205.
In S205, the main control device 80 judges whether the first special symbol or the second special symbol is being displayed. If the judgment is affirmative (S205: yes), the process proceeds to S320 in FIG. 11, and if the judgment is negative (S205: no), the process proceeds to S210.

In S210, the main control device 80 judges whether the first special symbol or the second special symbol is being displayed. If the judgment is affirmative (S210: yes), the process proceeds to S330 in Fig. 12, and if the judgment is negative (S210: no), the process proceeds to S215 in Fig. 9.
Next, with regard to FIG. 9, in S215, the main control unit 80 determines whether or not a first pending memory and a second pending memory exist, and if either pending memory exists (S215: yes), the process proceeds to S220, and if not (S215: no), the process terminates.

In S220, if the second reserved memory exists, the main control device 80 selects the first generated second reserved memory, and if the second reserved memory does not exist and only the first reserved memory exists, the main control device 80 selects the first generated first reserved memory. In other words, in this embodiment, the second reserved memory is consumed preferentially.
In S225, the main control unit 80 determines whether or not a high probability flag indicating that the game is in a high probability state is set, and if the determination is positive (S225: yes), the process proceeds to S230, and if the determination is negative (S225: no), the process proceeds to S235.

In S230, the main control device 80 determines whether or not a jackpot will be won in the jackpot lottery based on the random number for jackpot determination related to the selected reserved memory and the winning/losing determination table (probability variable table) corresponding to the probability variable state, and consumes the reserved memory. Then, the process proceeds to S240.
On the other hand, in S235, the main control device 80 judges whether or not a jackpot will be obtained in the jackpot lottery based on the random number for jackpot judgment related to the selected reserved memory and the winning/losing judgment table (normal table) corresponding to the case where the probability of winning is not increased, and consumes the reserved memory. Then, the process proceeds to S240.

In S240, the main control unit 80 determines whether or not a jackpot has occurred in the jackpot lottery, and if the determination is positive (S240: yes), the processing proceeds to S245, and if the determination is negative (S240: no), the processing proceeds to S265 in FIG. 10.
In S245, the main control device 80 determines the jackpot symbol based on the random number for determining the jackpot symbol related to the reserved memory that has been consumed. As a result of the determination based on the random number for determining the jackpot symbol, each jackpot symbol corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol is randomly selected according to a predetermined distribution ratio. Then, the process proceeds to S250.

In S250, the main control device 80 determines the variation time of the special symbol, etc., based on the variation pattern determination random number related to the consumed reserved memory and the variation pattern table. Specifically, the variation time of the special symbol is registered in the variation pattern table, and the variation time of the special symbol is determined by selecting one of the variation times registered in the variation pattern table based on the variation pattern determination random number. In this embodiment, there is provided a time-saving variation pattern table used when the time-saving function is activated, and a normal variation pattern table used when the time-saving function is not activated. The average value of the variation time registered in the time-saving variation pattern table is smaller than the average value of the variation time registered in the normal variation pattern table.

In this embodiment, the time-saving state is entered due to three factors: a jackpot, the activation of the continuous time-saving function, and winning the time-saving prize. A different time-saving fluctuation pattern table corresponding to each factor may be provided. Furthermore, as time-saving fluctuation pattern tables corresponding to each factor, a time-saving fluctuation pattern table corresponding to a high probability state and a time-saving fluctuation pattern table corresponding to a low probability state may be provided. The average value of the fluctuation time registered in each time-saving fluctuation pattern table may be different. During the time-saving state, the fluctuation time of the special chart may be determined using a time-saving fluctuation pattern table corresponding to the factor for entering the time-saving state and the presence or absence of the activation of the special fluctuation function. Of course, during the time-saving state, the same time-saving fluctuation pattern table may be used regardless of the factor for entering the time-saving state.

In the next S255, the main control unit 80 determines the type of jackpot, the total number of rounds of jackpot play, the game state after the jackpot play, the number of times the special state or time-saving state will continue during the bonus period, etc. based on the jackpot pattern, and then transitions to S260.
On the other hand, in S265 of FIG. 10, which is entered when it is determined in S240 that the jackpot lottery has been lost, the main control device 80 determines whether the probability variable flag is cleared, and in the following S270, determines whether the continuous counter is greater than 0. If a positive determination is obtained in S265 and S270, the main control device 80 proceeds to S275 to decrement the continuous counter, and in the following S280, determines whether the continuous counter is 0, and if a positive determination is obtained (S280: yes), proceeds to S285 to activate the continuous time-shortening function. If a negative determination is obtained in S265 or S270, and if a negative determination is obtained in S280, the main control device 80 proceeds to S295.

The consecutive counter counts the number of consecutive times while the low probability state continues, and is used to determine whether the number of consecutive times has reached the upper limit. An upper limit is set in the consecutive counter when the pachinko machine 50 is initialized by turning on the power or when a jackpot occurs. When the number of consecutive times reaches the upper limit, the consecutive counter becomes 0, the consecutive time-saving function is activated to transition to the time-saving state, and after the consecutive time-saving function is activated, the upper limit is not set in the consecutive counter until a new jackpot occurs. Therefore, once the consecutive time-saving function is activated, even if the time-saving state to which the function was activated ends, the consecutive counter remains at 0 until a new jackpot occurs. Therefore, in S270, it is determined whether the time-saving state has been transitioned to by the activation of the consecutive time-saving function.

In S285, the main control unit 80 determines the time for the special symbol to change based on the random numbers for reaching the target and for determining the change pattern, the change pattern table, and the like, related to the reserved memory that has been consumed. In the following S290, the main control unit 80 sets the number of times the time-saving state will continue to be entered in order to activate the continuous time-saving function or the time-saving function due to a time-saving win, and then proceeds to S260 in FIG. 9.

On the other hand, in S295, the main control unit 80 judges whether or not a time-saving winning has occurred based on the random number for determining a jackpot related to the reserved memory that has been consumed. If the judgment is affirmative (S295: yes), the main control unit 80 decides to confirm and display the time-saving pattern (S300) and proceeds to S305. Note that if multiple types of time-saving patterns are provided, the type of time-saving pattern to be confirmed and displayed may be determined based on the random number for determining a jackpot, or the random number for determining a jackpot and the random number for determining a jackpot pattern. On the other hand, if the judgment is negative (S295: no), proceeds to S310.

In S305, the main control device 80 determines whether the game state is normal or not, and if a positive determination is obtained (S305: yes), the process proceeds to S285, and if a negative determination is obtained (S305: no), the process proceeds to S310.
In S310, the main control device 80 determines the time for the special symbol to change based on the random numbers for reaching the target and for determining the change pattern, the change pattern table, etc., related to the reserved memory that has been consumed. Then, in the following S315, the main control device 80 updates the counters indicating the remaining number of jackpot draws that can be performed during the high probability state (hereinafter, the remaining number of high probability states), and the counters indicating the remaining number of jackpot draws that can be performed during the time-saving state (hereinafter, the remaining number of time-saving states), and then proceeds to S260 in FIG.

In S260, the main control device 80 transmits to the sub-integrated control device 83 a first reserved number command indicating the number of first reserved memories after the big win drawing, and a second reserved number command indicating the number of second reserved memories after the big win drawing. It also starts the display of the special pattern corresponding to the consumed reserved memory, and starts the pattern display by transmitting a change start command to the sub-integrated control device 83 indicating the change time of the special pattern, etc. Furthermore, it transmits a pattern designation command to the sub-integrated control device 83 to specify the display pattern to be stopped, and ends this process.

Next, with regard to FIG. 11, in S320, which is entered during the varying display of the first or second special chart, the main control unit 80 determines whether the variation time of the special chart has elapsed or not, and if the determination is positive (S320: yes), the process proceeds to S325, and if the determination is negative (S320: no), the process is terminated.
In S325, the main control unit 80 ends the varying display of the special chart, displays the confirmed pattern of the special chart, and sends a pattern confirmation command to the sub-integrated control unit 83 to cause the confirmed display of the performance pattern, and ends this processing.

12, in S330, which is performed during the confirmation display of the special image, the main control device 80 judges whether the duration of the confirmation display of the special image has ended. If the result is positive (S330: yes), the process proceeds to S335, and if the result is negative (S330: no), the process ends.
In S335, the main control unit 80 ends the confirmation display of the special drawing and transitions to S340.

In S340, the main control unit 80 determines whether the special symbol that was displayed as confirmed is the one that will be displayed at the time of a jackpot, and if the determination is positive (S340: yes), the process proceeds to S345, and if the determination is negative (S340: no), the process proceeds to S380.
In S345, the main control device 80 refers to the high probability flag which indicates that the game is in a high probability state, and if the high probability flag is set, clears the high probability flag (S350), and then proceeds to S355.

In S355, the main control device 80 refers to a time-shortening flag indicating that the time-shortening state is in effect, and if the time-shortening flag is set, clears the time-shortening flag (S360), and then transitions to processing at S365.
Then, the main control unit 80 executes a condition device operation start process (S365) and a role continuous operation device operation start process (S370), and sends a command to the sub-integrated control unit 83 notifying the player of the win in the jackpot lottery, as well as a command to notify the player of the type of jackpot game and the contents of the bonus, etc. (S375), and then ends this process.

On the other hand, in S380, which is performed when a negative judgment is obtained in S340, the main control device 80 refers to the high probability flag, and if the flag is set (S380: yes), refers to the remaining number of high probability flags (S385). Then, if the remaining number of high probability flags is 0 (S385: yes), the high probability flag is cleared (S390) and the process proceeds to S395.
In S395, the main control device 80 refers to the time-saving flag, and if the time-saving flag is set (S395: yes), refers to the remaining number of time-saving times (S400). Then, if the remaining number of time-saving times is 0 (S400: yes), the time-saving flag is cleared (S405), and the process proceeds to S410.

In S410, the main control device 80 judges whether or not the continuous time-saving function or the time-saving function due to the time-saving winning is to be activated. If a positive judgment is obtained (S410: yes), the process proceeds to S415, and if a negative judgment is obtained (S410: no), the process proceeds to S430.
In S415, the main control unit 80 sets a time-saving flag, and in the following S420, it sets the remaining number of jackpot lotteries that can be executed during the time-saving state entered by the activation of the continuous time-saving function or winning the time-saving function, and then proceeds to S430.

In S430, the main control unit 80 executes a state designation command sending process to send a state designation command to the sub-integrated control unit 83 to notify the sub-integrated control unit 83 of the current game state, the number of remaining special mode rounds, and the number of remaining time-saving mode rounds, and then terminates this process.
(7) Big Win Game Processing Next, the big win game processing for performing the big win game will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figures 13 to 16. This processing is executed following the win/loss determination processing.

In S500, the main control device 80 judges whether the consecutive operation device of the role is in operation, i.e., whether a big win game is being played. If the judgment is affirmative (S500: yes), the process proceeds to S510, and if the judgment is negative (S500: no), the process ends.
In S510, the main control device 80 determines whether the large prize opening 20 is open or not, and if the determination is positive (S510: yes), the process proceeds to S550 in FIG. 14, and if the determination is negative (S510: no), the process proceeds to S515.

In S515, the main control unit 80 determines whether or not it is during the interval between each round in the jackpot game, and if the determination is positive (S515: yes), the processing proceeds to S600 in FIG. 15, and if the determination is negative (S515: no), the processing proceeds to S520.
In S520, the main control device 80 determines whether or not the end presentation of the jackpot game is in progress, and if the determination is positive (S520: yes), the processing proceeds to S645 in FIG. 16, and if the determination is negative (S520: no), the processing proceeds to S525.

In S525, the main control unit 80 determines whether or not the presentation time for the jackpot start presentation, which is performed after a jackpot is won in the jackpot lottery and before the jackpot game starts, has elapsed, and if the determination is positive (S525: yes), the process proceeds to S530, and if the determination is negative (S525: no), the process ends.
In S530, the main control device 80 executes a large prize opening process to open the large prize opening 20 according to an opening pattern corresponding to the large prize symbol (executes the large prize game of the first round), sets the opening counter indicating the number of rounds to 1 (S535), and ends this process. At this time, the main control device 80 may send a command indicating that the first round is about to start to the sub-integrated control device 83.

14, in S550, which is performed while the large prize opening 20 is open, the main control device 80 judges whether the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening 20 has reached 10. If the judgment is affirmative (S550: yes), the process proceeds to S560, and if the judgment is negative (S550: no), the process proceeds to S555.
In S555, the main control unit 80 determines whether the opening time of the large prize opening 20, which is determined according to the opening pattern, has ended, and if the determination is positive (S555: yes), the processing proceeds to S560, and if the determination is negative (S555: no), the processing ends.

In S560, the main control unit 80 executes a large prize opening closing process to close the large prize opening 20, and then transitions to S565.
In S565, the main control unit 80 executes a jackpot interval process to set the interval between each round of the jackpot game, and then ends this process.
Next, with regard to FIG. 15, in S600, which is entered during the interval between each round, the main control unit 80 judges whether or not the final round has been reached based on the opening counter and the opening pattern of the jackpot game, and if the judgment is positive (S600: yes), the processing proceeds to S605, and if the judgment is negative (S600: no), the processing proceeds to S615.

In S605, the main control device 80 executes a jackpot end presentation process to produce a presentation for ending the jackpot game, and clears the opening counter (S610), and ends this process.
On the other hand, in S615, the main control device 80 determines whether or not the interval time for the jackpot game has elapsed, and if the determination is positive (S615: yes), the process proceeds to S620, and if the determination is negative (S615: no), the process ends.

In S620, the main control device 80 executes a large prize opening process to open the large prize opening 20, and increments the opening counter indicating the number of rounds (S625), and ends this process. At this time, the main control device 80 may transmit a command indicating a new round to the sub integrated control device 83.
Next, with regard to Figure 16, in S645, which is entered during the end presentation of the jackpot game, the main control device 80 determines whether or not the time for the end presentation has ended, and if the determination is positive (S645: yes), the process proceeds to S650, and if the determination is negative (S645: no), the process terminates.

In the following steps S650 and S655, the main control device 80 stops the reel continuous operation device and the condition device, and transfers processing to S660.
In S660, the main control device 80 judges whether the game state after the big win game is the high probability state and the time-saving state. If the judgment is affirmative (S660: yes), the process proceeds to S665, and if the judgment is negative (S660: no), the process proceeds to S680.

In S665, the main control device 80 sets the number of times the high probability state or the time-saving state will continue, which has been determined in advance according to the winning symbol, etc. Also, the high probability state flag and the time-saving state flag are set (S670), and the process proceeds to S695.
On the other hand, in S680, the main control device 80 determines whether or not the time-saving state will be entered after the end of the jackpot game, and if the determination is positive (S680: yes), the processing proceeds to S685, and if the determination is negative (S680: no), the processing proceeds to S695.

In S685, the main control device 80 sets the number of times the time-saving state will continue, which has been determined in advance according to the big win symbol, etc. Also, the main control device 80 sets a time-saving flag (S690), and the process proceeds to S695.
In S695 and S700, the main control unit 80 sends to the sub-integrated control unit 83 a jackpot end command to end the presentation related to the jackpot game, and a state designation command to notify the sub-integrated control unit 83 of the game state after the jackpot game ends and the number of times the special state or time-saving state will continue, and then ends this processing.

(8) About the performance The pachinko machine 50 of this embodiment is configured to win a jackpot and a time-saving winning in the jackpot lottery, but as described above, the pachinko machine 50 of this embodiment can also be configured as a pachinko machine that wins a jackpot, a small winning, and a time-saving winning in the jackpot lottery. Furthermore, the pachinko machine 50 of this embodiment can also be configured as a pachinko machine that wins a small winning and no jackpot, or a pachinko machine that does not win a time-saving winning. The following description is not limited to a pachinko machine that wins a jackpot and a time-saving winning in the jackpot lottery, but rather describes a case where the performance of this embodiment is applied to a pachinko machine that wins at least one of a jackpot, a small winning, and a time-saving winning in the jackpot lottery, and the winning in the jackpot lottery in the following description means winning either a jackpot, a small winning, or a time-saving winning. Furthermore, from now on, not winning the jackpot lottery will be described as a loss.

In the pachinko machine 50, the sub-integrated control device 83 controls the performance symbol control device 82 and the like based on commands from the main control device 80, and performs various performances via the performance screen of the performance symbol display device 6 and the speaker 66. In addition to this, the performances may be performed, for example, through the player's sense of touch using the haptic device 69, or by turning on an LED, illuminating a light guide plate, outputting a specified sound from the speaker 66, or moving a role-playing device.

The pachinko machine 50 also has multiple types of presentation modes, and these presentations are performed in a manner that corresponds to the presentation mode. The presentation mode is determined, for example, according to the current game state. In this embodiment, as an example, there is a normal mode, which is a presentation mode that is entered during a normal state, and a bonus mode, which is a presentation mode that is entered when the time-saving state and low probability state, or the time-saving state and high probability state, are provided.

Specifically, the sub-integrated control device 83 performs a pattern presentation on the presentation screen to notify the result of the jackpot lottery based on a variation start command from the main control device 80. In the pattern presentation, as an example, three presentation patterns are displayed in a variable manner, and after all of these presentation patterns are displayed as still patterns, they are further displayed as fixed patterns to notify the result of the jackpot lottery. In addition, as a form of the pattern presentation, a reach presentation is provided that suggests or notifies the winning of the jackpot lottery (in other words, the result of the jackpot lottery). Note that suggesting means that a predetermined event such as winning the jackpot lottery occurs with a predetermined expectation (in other words, a predetermined probability less than 100%). The reach presentation includes a normal reach with a low expectation and a SP reach with a high expectation.

The sub-integrated control device 83 also performs a reserved effect in which reserved symbols corresponding to the first and second reserved memories are displayed on the display screen based on reserved number commands and the like from the main control device 80. Furthermore, after the reserved memory is consumed, a changing effect is performed in which a changing symbol is displayed in place of the reserved symbol corresponding to the reserved memory. The changing effect is performed in parallel with the symbol effect corresponding to the jackpot lottery based on the consumed reserved memory.

In addition, the sub-integrated control device 83 performs, for example, a preview effect on the performance screen, together with a pattern performance, which suggests or notifies the player that a win will occur in a big win lottery whose result is notified by the pattern performance. The preview effect is started after the big win lottery that suggests or notifies the player that a win will occur is executed.
In addition, the sub-integrated control device 83 performs a jackpot presentation that notifies the progress of the jackpot game via the presentation screen based on a command from the main control device 80. The jackpot presentation is performed in a manner that corresponds to, for example, the total number of rounds of the jackpot game, the game state after the jackpot game, etc., and for example, the current round, the total number of winning balls acquired by the player in the jackpot game, the difference in the number of balls in the jackpot game, the total number of winning balls and the difference in the number of balls in the jackpot game during the consecutive wins, etc. are displayed. The difference in the number of balls means the number of game balls shot from the total number of winning balls.

Furthermore, the sub-integrated control device 83 performs a look-ahead performance that suggests or notifies a winner in a jackpot lottery based on the reserved memory (hereinafter also referred to as the target reserved memory) corresponding to the look-ahead command, based on the look-ahead result indicated by the look-ahead command corresponding to the first or second reserved memory received from the main control device 80. The look-ahead performance is started at any point during the period from the generation of the target reserved memory to the end of the pattern performance (in other words, the variable display of the special chart) for the jackpot lottery performed based on the target reserved memory. Note that the look-ahead performance may not be started during the pattern performance for the target reserved memory.

(9) Regarding the specific performance as the SP reach In this embodiment, a specific performance is provided as one of the above-mentioned SP reaches. The specific performance is not limited to the SP reach, and may be configured as a performance that suggests or notifies the result of the jackpot lottery before the result of the jackpot lottery is notified by the variable display of the special chart, such as a normal reach, a notice performance, a pre-reading performance, etc. The specific performance is configured as a performance in which a battle between a main character and an enemy character develops as a story, and suggests or notifies the result of the jackpot lottery by the development of the battle, etc., and has at least the first to third stages. The second stage is transitioned after the first stage, and the third stage is transitioned after the second stage. In each stage, the performance is performed according to any one (or multiple) performance patterns.

Specifically, as the presentation patterns that can appear in each stage, there are provided a notification pattern that notifies the player that there is a 100% probability of winning the jackpot lottery, and a non-notification pattern that does not notify the player of the winning selection (in other words, suggests a loss in the jackpot lottery). If a non-notification pattern appears in the first stage, the game moves to the second stage after the first stage, and if a non-notification pattern appears in the second stage, the game moves to the third stage after the second stage. The non-notification pattern may appear in the third stage to notify the player that the jackpot lottery will be a loss. On the other hand, if a notification pattern appears in the first or second stage, the game may or may not move to the next stage. Even if a notification pattern appears in the preceding stage, the notification pattern may appear again in the stage following that stage.

In addition, at least one type of notification pattern and at least one type of non-notification pattern may appear in each stage. The types of notification patterns that may appear in the second stage are greater than the types of notification patterns that may appear in each of the first and third stages.
Here, the specific performance in which the notification pattern first appears in the second stage is called the normal notification mode, and the specific performance in which the notification pattern first appears in the first or third stage is called the special notification mode. The specific performance performed when a big win is won is more likely to be the normal notification mode than the special notification mode. In other words, in many cases, the notification pattern first appears in the second stage.

In addition, if a player wins a jackpot lottery in which a specific presentation of a special notification mode is performed, the player has a higher probability of transitioning to a more advantageous game state after the jackpot game than if the player wins a jackpot lottery in which a specific presentation of a normal notification mode is performed. In this embodiment, as an example, if a player wins a jackpot lottery in which a specific presentation of a special notification mode is performed, the player will transition to a particularly advantageous bonus state with a higher probability than if the player wins a jackpot lottery in which a specific presentation of a normal notification mode is performed. Note that a particularly advantageous bonus state means a bonus state that is more advantageous to the player than other bonus states (hereinafter, normal bonus states), such as a time-saving state and a high probability state, or a bonus state with a continuation count of 100 times. On the other hand, if a player wins a jackpot lottery in which a normal notification mode is performed, the player will transition to a normal state or a normal bonus state with a higher probability than if the player wins a jackpot lottery in which a special notification mode is performed.

Furthermore, the type of notification pattern that appears for the first or second time onwards may suggest or notify the player of the type of benefit that will be given to the player if the player wins the jackpot lottery. Specifically, for example, the type of notification pattern may suggest or notify whether the jackpot lottery will result in a jackpot, a small jackpot, or a time-saving win, or may suggest or notify the number of rounds of the jackpot game, or may suggest or notify which game state will be entered after the jackpot game.

The specific effects may include effect patterns other than notification patterns and non-notification patterns. Specifically, for example, there may be suggestion patterns that indicate a win in the jackpot lottery, a jackpot, a small win, or a time-saving win, or effect patterns that indicate a transition to a bonus state or the contents of the bonus state after a jackpot game that is played as a result of winning the jackpot lottery. Such effect patterns may appear at each stage in place of notification patterns or non-notification patterns, or may appear before or after notification patterns or non-notification patterns appear at each stage.

(10) Specific Examples of Specific Effects In this embodiment, as an example, in the notification pattern, the battle develops in favor of the main character, and in the non-notification pattern, the battle develops in disadvantage to the main character. Then, as an example, the development of the battle in the first to third stages of the specific effects is as follows. That is, in the first stage, the main character launches a preemptive attack on the enemy character (notification pattern), or the enemy character launches a preemptive attack on the main character (non-notification pattern), and when the enemy character launches a preemptive attack, the game moves to the second stage. Also, in the second stage, the main character counterattacks the enemy character (notification pattern), or the main character falls due to a preemptive attack from the enemy character and is unable to counterattack the enemy character (non-notification pattern), and the battle is concluded for the time being. Then, if the main character is unable to counterattack, the game moves to the third stage, and in the third stage, the fallen main character gets up and prepares to counterattack (notification pattern), or the main character remains fallen (non-notification pattern). Of course, the development of the battle is not limited to this and can be determined as appropriate.

As shown in FIG. 17, in this embodiment, as an example, one type of notification pattern and one type of non-notification pattern may appear in the first and third stages, respectively, and three types of notification patterns and one type of non-notification pattern may appear in the second stage. Of course, the number of types of notification patterns and non-notification patterns that may appear in each stage is not limited to this, and may be selected as appropriate. In other words, multiple types of notification patterns may appear in the first and third stages, and multiple types of non-notification patterns may appear in each stage.

When a notification pattern appears in the second stage, the type of notification pattern that appears may suggest or notify the type of benefit that will be awarded as a result of winning the jackpot lottery. Specifically, for example, when the notification pattern "(c) An ally character appears and counterattacks an enemy character" in FIG. 17 appears, it may suggest or notify that the total number of rounds in the jackpot game is large (10R) or that after the jackpot game, a transition to the particularly advantageous bonus state described above will occur. When the performance pattern (c) above appears in the second stage, the type of ally character may suggest or notify the type of win in the jackpot lottery, the number of rounds in the jackpot game, or the game state after the jackpot game.

Furthermore, in each presentation pattern at each stage, in addition to the video of the battle between the main character 810 and the enemy character 820, supplementary explanations of the battle development may be displayed on the presentation screen 800. FIG. 18(a) shows an example of a notification pattern that may appear in the first stage, FIG. 18(b) shows an example of a non-notification pattern that may appear in the second stage, and FIG. 18(c) shows an example of a non-notification pattern that may appear in the third stage. As shown in 830-832 in FIG. 18, supplementary explanations may be provided in text, or bar graphs 811, 821 showing the remaining strength of the main character 810 and enemy character 820 may be used to show whether the battle is developing in favor of the main character or the enemy character. Note that supplementary explanations in text may be provided by audio.

In the third stage notification pattern and non-notification pattern, no attacks are made by the main character or enemy character, which can make it difficult to understand how the battle is progressing. By providing the above-mentioned supplementary explanation, however, it becomes easier to understand whether the main character or the enemy character has the advantage, making it easier to understand how the battle is progressing even in the third stage.
In addition, even if a notification pattern appears first in the first stage, the game may move to the second stage and a further notification pattern may appear in the second stage. As described above, the number of types of notification patterns that can appear in the second stage is the greatest, and the battle of the specific presentation is once concluded in the second stage. Therefore, even if a notification pattern appears in the first stage, by moving to the second stage and making a further notification pattern appear, it is possible to provide a variety of presentations and to conclude the battle of the specific presentation, thereby entertaining the player.

Furthermore, after the result of the jackpot lottery is announced by a preview effect or a look-ahead effect, a specific effect for that jackpot lottery may be performed in a similar manner. Although the player already knows the result of the jackpot lottery, there is a possibility that a new combination of effect patterns will appear in the specific effect, which can be entertaining for the player. Furthermore, the player can enjoy the specific effect even more by checking what combination of effect patterns will appear in the specific effect when the jackpot lottery is won.

(11) About the specific effects during a jackpot game By performing the above-mentioned specific effects during a jackpot game, the game state after the end of the jackpot game may be suggested or notified. The specific effects during a jackpot game are configured in the same manner as the specific effects as SP reach. The specific effects during a jackpot game may be configured as so-called promotion effects. That is, the specific effects may be performed when the game state after the jackpot game cannot be grasped from the effects, or when the effects have already notified that the game state after the jackpot game is the normal state or the above-mentioned normal privilege state. The specific effects may notify that the game state will be transitioned to a privilege state after the jackpot game, or that the game state will be transitioned to a privilege state that is more advantageous than the already notified game state.

The first to third stages of the specific effects may be performed during any one round of the big win game. The first to third stages may be performed across multiple rounds, in which case each stage may be performed in response to each of three consecutive rounds in the big win game, or may be performed without being linked to the consumption of the rounds.
In addition, in a specific presentation during a jackpot game, the notification pattern notifies with 100% probability that a transition to a special privilege state will occur after the jackpot game ends. More specifically, the notification pattern may simply notify a transition to a special privilege state, or may notify a transition to a particularly advantageous special privilege state. On the other hand, the non-notification pattern does not notify a transition to a special privilege state notified by the notification pattern after the jackpot game ends. In other words, the non-notification pattern suggests a transition to a normal state or a transition to a normal special privilege state.

Furthermore, if a non-notification pattern appears in the third stage, it may indicate a transition to a normal state after a jackpot game or a transition to a normal bonus state.
Similarly, in the special presentation during a jackpot game, there are normal notification modes and special notification modes, but the special presentation performed when the transition to the special state is notified by the notification pattern after the jackpot game is more likely to be the normal notification mode than the special notification mode. In other words, in many cases, in the special presentation during a jackpot game, the notification pattern first appears in the second stage.

In addition, when a specific presentation of the special notification mode is performed, the probability of transitioning to a particularly advantageous bonus state after a jackpot game may be higher than when a specific presentation of the normal notification mode is performed.
In addition, depending on the type of notification pattern that appears for the first or second time or later, the content of the bonus state to which the player will be transitioned after a jackpot game may be suggested or notified, for example, of whether or not the player will transition to a high probability state and the number of times the bonus state will continue.

In addition, in the specific presentation during the big win game, a presentation pattern other than the notification pattern and the non-notification pattern may be provided. Specifically, for example, a suggestion pattern indicating a transition to a high probability state or indicating that the number of continuations is 100 may be provided.
In addition, the battle may also be developed in the specific presentation during the big win game in the same manner as the specific presentation as the SP reach (see Figs. 17 and 18). In addition, when a notification pattern appears in the second stage, the content of the privilege state to be entered after the big win game may be suggested or notified depending on the type of the notification pattern that appears. Specifically, for example, when a presentation pattern of "(c) an ally character appears and counterattacks an enemy character" appears, it may be suggested or notified that a transition to a particularly advantageous privilege state will occur after the big win game. In addition, when the presentation pattern (c) appears in the second stage, the content of the game state after the big win game may be suggested or notified depending on the type of the ally character.

(12) First Specific Effects Process Next, the first specific effects process for executing the specific effects configured as the SP reach will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 19. This process is periodically executed by the sub-integrated control device 83.
In S900, the sub-integrated control device 83 judges whether or not it has received a fluctuation start command from the main control device 80. If a positive judgment is obtained (S900: yes), the process proceeds to S905, and if a negative judgment is obtained (S900: no), the process proceeds to S915.

In S905, the sub-integrated control device 83 specifies the variable display time of the special symbol based on the variable start command, and determines whether to execute a specific performance based on the variable display time. In the following S910, the sub-integrated control device 83 starts the pattern performance and ends this process.
In S915, the sub-integrated control device 83 determines whether or not to execute a specific effect during the pattern effect, and if a positive determination is obtained (S915: yes), the process proceeds to S920, and if a negative determination is obtained (S915: no), the process terminates.

In S920, the sub-integrated control device 83 judges whether the timing for starting the first stage of the specific performance has arrived, and if a positive judgment is obtained (S920: yes), the first stage performance is started (S925) and this process is terminated. On the other hand, if a negative judgment is obtained (S920: no), the sub-integrated control device 83 proceeds to S930.
In S930, the sub-integrated control device 83 judges whether the start timing of the second stage of the specific performance has arrived. Specifically, for example, the start timing of the second stage may be the timing when the performance of the non-alarm pattern that appeared in the first stage ends. Then, if a positive judgment is obtained (S930: yes), the sub-integrated control device 83 starts the performance of the second stage (S935) and ends this process. On the other hand, if a negative judgment is obtained (S930: no), the sub-integrated control device 83 proceeds to S940.

In S940, the sub-integrated control device 83 determines whether the timing to start the third stage of the specific effect has arrived. Specifically, for example, the timing at which the effect of the non-alarm pattern that appeared in the second stage ends may be the start timing of the third stage. If a positive determination is obtained (S940: yes), the sub-integrated control device 83 starts the third stage of the effect (S945) and ends this process. On the other hand, if a negative determination is obtained (S940: no), the sub-integrated control device 83 ends this process.

(13) About the second specific effect process Next, the second specific effect process that executes the specific effect performed during the big win game will be explained. The second specific effect process is the same as the first specific effect process, but there are some differences. Therefore, the following will explain the differences from the first specific effect process with reference to the flowchart in Figure 19. Note that this process is periodically executed by the sub-integrated control device 83.

In S900 of the second specific effect process, the sub integrated control device 83 judges whether or not a big win game is to be started based on a command from the main control device 80. If a positive judgment is obtained (S900: yes), the process proceeds to S905, and if a negative judgment is obtained (S900: no), the process proceeds to S915.
In S905, the sub-integrated control device 83 determines whether or not to perform a special effect during the big win game. In the following S910, the sub-integrated control device 83 starts the big win effect and ends this process.

In S915, the sub-integrated control device 83 determines whether or not to execute a specific effect during jackpot play, and if a positive determination is obtained (S915: yes), it proceeds to S920, and if a negative determination is obtained (S915: no), it terminates this processing.
Note that steps S920 to S945 are the same as the first specific effect process, and therefore the explanation will be omitted.
[Other embodiments]
(1) In the pachinko machine 50 of the above embodiment, it may be configured not to perform a specific performance such as an SP reach, or may be configured not to perform a specific performance during a jackpot game. In addition, in the specific performance, instead of the jackpot lottery of the special symbol, the result of the lottery of the normal symbol may be suggested or notified. Even in the case of such a configuration, the same effect can be obtained.

(2) In the specific presentation of the above embodiment, a battle between a main character and an enemy character unfolds as a story. However, in the specific presentation, a different type of battle may unfold as a story, or a story other than a battle may unfold, such as the main character exploring a cave and finding treasure. Even in such a case, the specific presentation can be configured in the same way as in the above embodiment.

(3) The pachinko machine 50 of the above embodiment may be configured without the continuous time-saving function. In the specific performance, the player may be suggested or informed that a big win or a small win will occur in the big win lottery in the same manner as in the above embodiment. Even in such a case, the same effect can be obtained.
[Correspondence to claims]
The following shows correspondence between the terms used in the description of the above embodiment and the terms used in the claims.

The pachinko machine 50 of the above embodiment corresponds to an example of a pinball game machine, and the sub-integrated control device 83 and the like correspond to an example of a presentation means.
Moreover, S260 and S325 of the winning/losing determination process correspond to an example of a changing means. Moreover, S670 and S690 of the big win game process correspond to an example of a shifting means.

1...game board, 3...game area, 5...center case, 6...performance symbol display device, 7...normal symbol display device, 8...normal symbol reserved number display device, 9...first special symbol display device, 10...second special symbol display device, 11...first start port, 12...second start port, 20...big prize port, 22...normal symbol activation gate, 50...pachinko machine, 80...main control device, 81...payout control device, 82...performance symbol control device, 83...sub-integrated control device.

Claims (1)

A pinball game machine which holds a lottery when a ball enters a starting hole, and plays a jackpot game when a winning ball is won in the lottery, and has a normal game state and at least one special game state in which a game more advantageous to a player than the normal game state is played,
A transition means for transitioning the game state to the normal state or the special state after the end of the jackpot game;
and a presentation means for performing a specific presentation during the execution of the jackpot game to suggest or notify the game state to be transitioned to after the end of the jackpot game,
The specific performance has at least a first stage, a second stage that transitions after the first stage, and a third stage that transitions after the second stage,
As the presentation patterns in the first to third stages, a notification pattern for notifying a transition to the special bonus state and a non-notification pattern for not notifying the transition are provided, and in each of the first to third stages, one of these presentation patterns appears;
If the non-alarm pattern appears in the first stage, the process proceeds to the second stage after the first stage, and if the non-alarm pattern appears in the second stage, the process proceeds to the third stage after the second stage;
the types of the notification patterns that may appear in the second stage are greater than the types of the notification patterns that may appear in each of the first stage and the third stage;
In the specific performance performed during the execution of the jackpot game that transitions to the special bonus state, the probability that the notification pattern will first appear in the second stage is higher than the probability that the notification pattern will first appear in the first stage or the third stage;
A pinball game machine characterized by:

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