JP7685243B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines.

2. Description of the Related Art Among conventional pachinko gaming machines, some can be controlled to a plurality of different gaming states.
For example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, the conditions for terminating the advantageous gaming state (short-time state) when controlling to the advantageous gaming state after the end of the jackpot game are varied depending on the type of winning prize.

JP 2015-97584 A

However, with such gaming machines, it is desirable to further improve the control of the gaming state in order to increase the interest in the game.

A gaming machine that solves the above problem is a gaming machine in which, when a special lottery result is a special result, a special game based on the special result can be generated thereafter, and the gaming machine is provided with a state control means for controlling a gaming state, a storage means for storing gaming state information that can identify a current gaming state, and an initialization control means capable of controlling initialization of the information stored in the storage means, the gaming state being classified into a special gaming state and a non-special gaming state, and the state control means controls to control the special gaming state when the special game ends, The control to control to the special game state is possible when the result of the special lottery becomes a specific result different from the special result, and the control to control to the non-special game state is possible when the game state information is initialized by the initialization control means. The special game state includes a first special game state and a second special game state, and the specific result includes a first specific result and a second specific result. When the result of the special lottery becomes the first specific result in the non-special game state, the special game is not generated. When the result of the special lottery in the non-special game state becomes the second specific result , the special game is not generated and the game is controlled to the second special game state. In the non-special game state, the probability that the result of the special lottery becomes the first specific result and the probability that the result of the special lottery becomes the second specific result are different. When the game is controlled to the first special game state, the game is controlled to the non-special game state when the maximum number of special games has been executed since the game was controlled to the first special game state. The special results include specific special results, and when, in the first special game state, the result of the special lottery is the specific special result and the special game based on the specific special result is initiated, the system is controlled to the first special game state even after the special game ends, and when, in the non-special game state, the result of the special lottery is the specific special result and the special game based on the specific special result is initiated, the system is controlled to the non-special game state even after the special game ends .

The present invention can increase interest in games.

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a pachinko gaming machine. FIG. (a) is an explanatory diagram showing the types of first special patterns, (b) is an explanatory diagram showing the types of second special patterns, and (c) is an explanatory diagram showing the types of termination conditions for the time-saving state. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine; 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the types of presentation modes in each game state. FIG. An explanatory diagram showing the execution mode of the right-hit notification display. An explanatory diagram showing the game state and the transition of presentation modes when a special hit ZA is won. An explanatory diagram showing the transition of the game state and presentation mode when the special hit ZB is won. An explanatory diagram showing the transition of the game state and presentation mode when a special hit ZC is won. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the game state and the transition of the presentation mode when the special win Za is won. FIG. An explanatory diagram showing the transition of the game state and presentation mode when a special hit Zb is won. 13 is a timing chart showing the flow of control when a special win Za is won during the first special mode. 13 is a timing chart showing the flow of control when a special win Za is won during the second special mode. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the transition of presentation modes.

An embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below. In the following description, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (back) indicate the respective directions as seen by a player.
As shown in Fig. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 10 as a gaming machine includes a launch handle HD that is operated by a player when launching a gaming ball. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a speaker SP that outputs sound. The speaker SP can execute effects by outputting sound such as music and sound effects (hereinafter, referred to as sound effects). The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a decorative lamp LA that executes light-emitting effects using a light-emitting body (not shown). The decorative lamp LA can execute light-emitting effects by turning on, blinking, and turning off a light-emitting body (not shown).

The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a game board YB. A game area YBa is formed on the front side of the game board YB, into which game balls can flow. In this embodiment, game balls launched by operating the launch handle HD reach the game area YBa. The game board YB is equipped with an opening window YBb in approximately the center when viewed from the front. A center frame W with various designs is attached to the opening window YBb.

As shown in FIG. 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an effect display device 12 having an image display unit GH capable of displaying an image. The effect display device 12 is attached to the game board YB so that the image display unit GH is visible through the opening window YBb (center frame W) of the game board YB when viewed from the front. For example, the image display unit GH is a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The effect display device 12 is capable of executing various notifications and effects by displaying various images. In this embodiment, the effect display device 12 functions as a notification means capable of various notifications. The effect display device 12 is capable of executing an effect (hereinafter referred to as a "display effect") in which an image imitating a specific character or letter is displayed as one of the effects.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an information display device 13 capable of displaying predetermined information. The information display device 13 is provided at a position on the game board YB that is visible to the player.
The information display device 13 includes a first special symbol display unit 13a. The first special symbol display unit 13a is capable of executing a first special symbol variable game as a variable game in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and the first special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. The information display device 13 includes a second special symbol display unit 13b. The second special symbol display unit 13b is capable of executing a second special symbol variable game as a variable game in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and the second special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. The first special symbol and the second special symbol are symbols for announcing the result of a special lottery, which will be described later.

In the following description, the special drawing for the first special symbol is abbreviated to "first special drawing," and the special drawing for the second special symbol is abbreviated to "second special drawing." The first special symbol changing game is abbreviated to "first special game," and the second special symbol changing game is abbreviated to "second special game." The first special game and the second special game are collectively referred to as "special games." In this specification, "changing display" refers to a state in which the type of the displayed symbol changes over time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" refers to a state in which the symbol is fixedly displayed and the type of the displayed symbol does not change. With respect to symbols, "fixed stop display" and "derivation" have the same meaning.

The special patterns that can be derived in the first special pattern display unit 13a and the second special pattern display unit 13b include a special pattern as a result of a special win, a time-saving pattern as a result of a time-saving win, and a loss pattern as a result of a loss. In this embodiment, the first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously. In this embodiment, if a special win is won in the special lottery, a special pattern is derived in the special game, and a special win game occurs after the special game ends. The special win game will be described in detail later. Also, if a time-saving win is won in the special lottery, a time-saving pattern is derived in the special game. On the other hand, if neither a special win nor a time-saving win is won in the special lottery, a loss pattern is derived in the special game. That is, in the first special pattern display unit 13a and the second special pattern display unit 13b of this embodiment, a special game can be executed in which the special pattern is changed and stopped based on the result of the special lottery.

The information display device 13 includes a first special hold display unit 13c. The first special hold display unit 13c displays information that can identify the number of first special games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following description, the number of first special games that are on hold is referred to as the "first special hold number". In this embodiment, the maximum value of the first special hold number is "4". The information display device 13 includes a second special hold display unit 13d. The second special hold display unit 13d displays information that can identify the number of second special games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following description, the number of second special games that are on hold is referred to as the "second special hold number". In this embodiment, the maximum value of the second special hold number is "2".

The information display device 13 includes a normal symbol display unit 13e. The normal symbol display unit 13e is capable of executing a normal symbol variation game in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and a normal symbol is finally displayed as a fixed, stopped symbol. The normal symbol is a symbol for announcing the result of a normal lottery, which will be described later. In the following description, the normal symbol variation game is abbreviated to "normal game." The normal symbols that can be derived to the normal symbol display unit 13e include a normal winning symbol and a normal losing symbol. In this embodiment, if a normal winning symbol is won in the normal lottery, a normal winning symbol is derived in the normal game, and a normal winning game is awarded after the normal game ends.

The information display device 13 includes a regular hold display section 13f. The regular hold display section 13f displays information that can identify the number of regular games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met. In the following description, the number of regular games on hold is referred to as the "regular hold number." In this embodiment, the maximum value of the regular hold number is "1." Note that each display section in the information display device 13 does not need to be provided on one display device, and may be provided on different parts. In addition, the information display device 13 may include a right hit display section that displays information instructing a so-called "right hit" and a round display section that notifies the upper limit number of rounds of play, which will be described later.

The game board YB is formed with a plurality of winning holes through which game balls can enter. The plurality of winning holes open into the game area YBa. The plurality of winning holes include a first start winning hole 14, a second start winning hole 15, a first large winning hole 18, and a second large winning hole 20. The plurality of winning holes may include winning holes different from these winning holes.

The first start winning opening 14 is a winning opening through which a game ball enters to fulfill the conditions for awarding prize balls and the reservation conditions for the first special game. As an example, the first start winning opening 14 is located below the performance display device 12. The first start winning opening 14 is always open so that game balls can enter. The game board YB is equipped with a first start winning sensor SE1 that detects game balls that enter the first start winning opening 14 (see Figure 4).

The second start winning opening 15 is a winning opening through which a game ball enters to fulfill the conditions for awarding a prize ball and the reservation conditions for the second special game. As an example, the second start winning opening 15 is located to the right of the performance display device 12. The game board YB is equipped with a second start winning sensor SE2 that detects a game ball that enters the second start winning opening 15 (see FIG. 4).

The second start winning hole 15 is equipped with a normal movable piece 16. The normal movable piece 16 can be in a first operating state in which the game ball cannot enter the second start winning hole 15, and a second operating state in which the game ball can enter the second start winning hole 15. The normal movable piece 16 is always in the first operating state, and operates in the second operating state when a normal winning game is generated. In other words, when a normal winning game is generated, the second start winning hole 15 becomes capable of receiving the game ball. The game board YB is equipped with a first solenoid SL1 as a means for operating the normal movable piece 16 (see FIG. 4).

The first large prize opening 18 is an opening through which game balls enter to satisfy the conditions for awarding a prize ball. As an example, the first large prize opening 18 is located below the second start prize opening 15. The game board YB is equipped with a first count sensor SE3 that detects game balls that enter the first large prize opening 18 (see FIG. 4).

The first large prize opening 18 is provided with a first special opening/closing piece 19, which is, for example, door-shaped. The first special opening/closing piece 19 can be in an open state in which the first large prize opening 18 is opened so that game balls can enter, or in a closed state in which the first large prize opening 18 is closed so that game balls cannot enter. The first special opening/closing piece 19 is always in a closed state, and operates to an open state when a special winning game is generated. In other words, when a special winning game is generated, the first large prize opening 18 is opened so that game balls can enter. The game board YB is provided with a second solenoid SL2 as a means for operating the first special opening/closing piece 19 (see FIG. 4).

A passage 26 is provided at the back of the first large prize opening 18, through which a game ball that enters the first large prize opening 18 can pass. The passage 26 is provided so as to branch into a first passage 26a and a second passage 26b at a branching point 27 downstream of the first large prize opening 18.

The branching section 27 is provided with a distribution shutter 28 that distributes the game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 18 to the first passage 26a or the second passage 26b by the operation of the fourth solenoid SL4 (see FIG. 4). The distribution shutter 28 operates to be able to take a first state in which the game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 18 is distributed to the first passage 26a, and a second state in which the game ball is distributed to the second passage 26b. The distribution shutter 28 operates in a predetermined operating pattern when a predetermined operating condition is met.

The first passage 26a is provided with a specific passage sensor SE5 (see FIG. 4) that detects a game ball passing through a specific area in the first passage 26a. In this embodiment, the specific area is a so-called V area. Although details will be described later, in this embodiment, when the first large prize opening 18 is opened in a special winning game, a big win occurs when the game ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a and is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5, and a big win game occurs. In this embodiment, the allocation of the game ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 to either the first passage 26a or the second passage 26b can also be understood as a winning lottery for a role. In this case, the allocation of the game ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 to the first passage 26a corresponds to winning a big win in the winning lottery for a role.

The second large prize opening 20 is an opening through which game balls enter to satisfy the conditions for awarding prize balls. As an example, the second large prize opening 20 is located below the first large prize opening 18. The game board YB is equipped with a second count sensor SE4 that detects game balls that enter the second large prize opening 20 (see FIG. 4).

The second large prize opening 20 is provided with a second special opening/closing piece 21, which is, for example, door-shaped. The second special opening/closing piece 21 can be in an open state in which the second large prize opening 20 is opened so that game balls can enter, or in a closed state in which the second large prize opening 20 is closed so that game balls cannot enter. The second special opening/closing piece 21 is always in a closed state, and operates to an open state when a big win game is generated. That is, when a big win game is generated, the second large prize opening 20 is opened so that game balls can enter. The game board YB is provided with a third solenoid SL3 as a means for operating the second special opening/closing piece 21 (see FIG. 4). In this embodiment, in a big win game, the second large prize opening 20 is opened, and the game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 20 is detected by the second count sensor SE4, and the condition for awarding prize balls is established.

The game board YB has a gate 23. As an example, the gate 23 is located above the second start winning hole 15. The gate 23 has a gate opening 23a formed therein. The gate opening 23a is always open so that game balls can enter the gate. The gate 23 has a gate sensor SE6 that detects game balls that have entered the gate opening 23a (see FIG. 4). The gate opening 23a is an entry opening through which game balls can enter in order to establish the starting conditions for the normal game. Even if a game ball enters the gate opening 23a, the conditions for awarding prize balls are not established.

Next, the path along which the gaming ball flows in this embodiment will be described.
The pachinko game machine 10 configured as above has a plurality of paths through which the game balls flow down in the game area YBa according to the launch strength of the game balls. The paths through which the game balls flow down can also be understood as the areas through which the game balls flow down. The plurality of paths include a first path R1 that flows down the left side of the center frame W (performance display device 12) and a second path R2 that flows down the right side of the center frame W (performance display device 12). The first path R1 and the second path R2 may overlap in part or may not overlap in whole. In the following description, the area located to the left of the center line CL that bisects the game area YBa to the left and right when the game board YB is viewed from the front is referred to as the left side area R1a, and the area located to the right of the center line CL is referred to as the right side area R2a. That is, in this embodiment, the path flowing down the left region R1a is the first path R1, and the path flowing down the right region R2a is the second path R2. In this embodiment, the left region R1a corresponds to the first game region, and the right region R2a corresponds to the second game region.

The player can adjust the launch strength of the game ball by operating the launch handle HD to hit the game ball into the left region R1a or the right region R2a. The first start winning hole 14 is opened on the first path R1 (left region R1a). Therefore, when the game ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to be weak, the game ball tends to flow down the left region R1a and the first start winning hole 14 is opened.
There is a possibility that the ball will enter the gate opening 23a. On the second route R2 (right side area R2a), in order from upstream, the gate opening 23a, the second start winning opening 15, the first large winning opening 18, and the second large winning opening 20 are open. For this reason, when the game ball is shot with the shooting strength adjusted to be strong, the game ball is likely to flow down the right side area R2a and may enter the second start winning opening 15, the first large winning opening 18, the second large winning opening 20, or the gate opening 23a.

In the following description, firing a game ball toward the left region R1a with a firing intensity that makes it easy for the game ball to flow down the first path R1 may be referred to as a "left hit." Also, firing a game ball with a firing intensity that makes it easy for the game ball to flow down the second path R2 may be referred to as a "right hit."

Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 3, the pachinko gaming machine 10 has a non-time-shortening state, a first time-shortening state, and a second time-shortening state as game states in which the average fluctuation time of the special game is different. In the following description, the first time-shortening state and the second time-shortening state may be collectively referred to simply as the "time-shortening state". The time-shortening state of this embodiment is a state in which the average fluctuation time of the special game is shorter than the non-time-shortening state. The second time-shortening state is a state in which the average fluctuation time of the special game is shorter than the first time-shortening state. That is, in this embodiment, the average fluctuation time of the special game is shorter in the order of the non-time-shortening state > the first time-shortening state > the second time-shortening state.

In addition, the time-saving state of this embodiment is a state in which the probability of the game ball entering the second start winning hole 15 is higher than that of the non-time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, the time-saving state is a ball-entry rate improvement state in which the ball-entry rate of the game ball into the second start winning hole 15 is improved compared to the non-time-saving state. For example, the ball-entry rate of the game ball into the second start winning hole 15 can be improved by performing one control arbitrarily selected from the three controls described below, or by performing a combination of multiple controls. The first control is a normal pattern variation time shortening control that shortens the variation time of the normal game. The second control is a normal pattern probability variation control that varies the probability of winning a normal win in a normal lottery (normal win probability) to a high probability. The third control is an operation time extension control that lengthens the total operation time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state in one normal winning game. The operation time extension control may be at least one of control for increasing the number of times that the normal movable piece 16 operates into the second operation state during one normal winning game, and control for lengthening the operation time for one operation of the normal movable piece 16 into the second operation state during a normal winning game.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the operating time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operating state during one normal winning game is long in the following order: non-time-saving state < first time-saving state < second time-saving state. Also, in this embodiment, the operating time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operating state during one normal winning game when in the non-time-saving state or the first time-saving state is much shorter than the operating time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operating state during one normal winning game when in the second time-saving state.

In particular, in this embodiment, the operating time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operating state during one normal winning game in the non-time-saving state or the first time-saving state is short enough that the game ball cannot actually enter the second start winning hole 15. For this reason, in this embodiment, in the non-time-saving state or the first time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot the game ball into the left region R1a than to shoot the game ball into the right region R2a. In other words, the non-time-saving state or the first time-saving state can be said to be a game state in which left-handed hitting is recommended.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, the operating time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operating state in one normal winning game in the second time-saving state is long enough for the game ball to enter the second start winning hole 15. Therefore, in this embodiment, in the second time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot the game ball into the right region R2a than to shoot the game ball into the left region R1a. In other words, the second time-saving state can be said to be a game state in which right-handed hitting is recommended.

In this embodiment, the non-time-saving state corresponds to a non-specific game state and a non-special game state. Also, in this embodiment, the time-saving state corresponds to a specific game state and a special game state. In particular, in this embodiment, the first time-saving state corresponds to a first special game state, and the second time-saving state corresponds to a second special game state.

Here, the control conditions when the time-saving state is controlled will be described.
In the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, there is a case where the time-saving state is controlled after the end of the jackpot game. In other words, in this embodiment, the control condition for controlling the time-saving state includes a jackpot control condition that may be established by the end of the jackpot game.

In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, there are cases where the time-saving state is controlled after a time-saving hit is won in a special lottery and a time-saving symbol is derived in a special game. In other words, in this embodiment, the control conditions controlled to the time-saving state include a time-saving hit control condition that can be established when a time-saving hit is won in a special lottery. In this embodiment, when the current gaming state is in a non-time-saving state, a time-saving hit can be won in a special lottery, but when the current gaming state is in a time-saving state, a time-saving hit cannot be won in a special lottery. In other words, in this embodiment, when the current gaming state is in a non-time-saving state, a time-saving hit control condition can be established, but when the current gaming state is in a time-saving state, a time-saving hit control condition cannot be established.

Next, the termination conditions when the time-saving state ends will be described.
In the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the time-saving state may end when a jackpot game is started. In other words, the end condition for ending the time-saving state includes a jackpot end condition that is established when a jackpot game is started.

In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving state may end when a special game is executed a predetermined number of times as the upper limit number of times of execution after being controlled to the time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, the end condition for ending the time-saving state includes a number end condition that is established when a special game is executed a predetermined number of times after being controlled to the time-saving state.

In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving state may end when a special symbol is drawn in a special game. In other words, the end conditions for ending the time-saving state include a special win end condition that is established when a special symbol is drawn in a special game. In this embodiment, the special symbol is drawn in a special game when a special win is won in a special lottery. For this reason, in this embodiment, the special win end condition can also be understood as a condition that is established when a special win is won in a special lottery.

In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving state may end when the RAM clear process described below is executed. In other words, the end condition for ending the time-saving state includes an initialization end condition that is met when the RAM clear process is executed.

Next, the special winning game in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described.
The special winning game is started after the end of the special game in which the special symbol is derived. In the special winning game, a predetermined performance is first performed for a predetermined opening time. For example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance indicating the start of the special winning game. In the special winning game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game is performed in which the first large winning hole 18 is opened. That is, in this embodiment, if a special winning is won in a special lottery, a special winning game is generated in which the first large winning hole 18 is opened after a special symbol is derived in a special game. Then, in the special winning game, the first large winning hole 18 is closed when a ball entry condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enters or a time lapse condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed is met. That is, in this embodiment, the first special opening and closing piece 19 operates in an open state during the special winning game, and operates in a closed state when the ball entry condition or the time lapse condition is met. In this embodiment, a predetermined effect is performed during the round game. For example, the predetermined effect is a round effect that indicates that the round game in which the first large winning port 18 is opened is being played. After that, in the special winning game, the predetermined effect is performed for a predetermined ending time. For example, the predetermined effect is an ending effect that indicates the end of the special winning game. Then, the special winning game ends as the ending time passes.

Next, the jackpot game in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the jackpot game starts after the special jackpot game ends, on the condition that the game ball passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a in the special jackpot game. In this embodiment, the jackpot game corresponds to the special game.

In the jackpot game, a predetermined performance is first performed for a predetermined opening time. For example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance indicating the start of the jackpot game. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game in which the second large prize winning hole 20 is opened is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. One round game ends when a first round end condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enters the round, or a second round end condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed, is met. In the round game, the second large prize winning hole 20 is opened to a predetermined open state. Specifically, in this embodiment, the second large prize winning hole 20 is opened at the start of the round game and closed at the end of the round game. That is, in this embodiment, the second special opening and closing piece 21 operates to an open state at the start of the round game and operates to a closed state at the end of the round game. In this embodiment, a predetermined performance is performed during the round game. For example, the predetermined effect is a round effect that indicates that a round game in which the second large prize opening 20 is being played is in progress. When the final round game ends, in the jackpot game, the predetermined effect is played for a predetermined ending time. For example, the predetermined effect is an ending effect that indicates the end of the jackpot game. Then, the jackpot game ends as the ending time passes.

Next, the types of wins in this embodiment will be described.
As shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b), the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment has a plurality of types of special symbols as special symbols. The types of special winning games are respectively determined for the plurality of types of special symbols. The types of special symbols can also be understood as the types of special winning games. In this embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol each have a plurality of types of special symbols that are determined in advance.

The special symbols of the first special symbols are classified into three groups, special symbol ZA, special symbol ZB, and special symbol ZC, at a predetermined ratio. Specifically, in this embodiment, of the 100 types of first special symbols classified as special symbols, 10 types of special symbols are classified as special symbol ZA, 40 types of special symbols are classified as special symbol ZB, and 50 types of special symbols are classified as special symbol ZC. In the following explanation, a special hit based on a special symbol classified as special symbol ZA is referred to as "special hit ZA", a special hit based on a special symbol classified as special symbol ZB is referred to as "special hit ZB", and a special hit based on a special symbol classified as special symbol ZC is referred to as "special hit ZC".

The special symbols of the second special symbols are classified into two groups, special symbol Za and special symbol Zb, at a predetermined ratio. Specifically, in this embodiment, of the 100 types of second special symbols classified as special symbols, 75 types of special symbols are classified as special symbol Za, and 25 types of special symbols are classified as special symbol Zb. In the following explanation, a special win based on a special symbol classified as special symbol Za is referred to as a "special win Za," and a special win based on a special symbol classified as special symbol Zb is referred to as a "special win Zb."

In addition, in the following explanation, the special win games based on the special wins ZA, ZB, ZC, Za, and Zb are referred to as "special win game ZA," "special win game ZB," "special win game ZC," "special win game Za," and "special win game Zb," respectively.

In the special winning game of this embodiment, the first special opening and closing piece 19 operates in a different operation pattern depending on the type of special winning. Specifically, in each of the special winning games ZA, ZB, ZC, and Za, the first special opening and closing piece 19 operates in an operation pattern that allows the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18. On the other hand, in the special winning game Zb, the first special opening and closing piece 19 operates in an operation pattern that makes it difficult for the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18. In particular, in this embodiment, in the special winning game Zb, the first special opening and closing piece 19 operates in an operation pattern that makes it substantially impossible for the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18.

In addition, in the special winning game of this embodiment, the distribution shutter 28 operates in a certain operating pattern. In this operating pattern, the distribution shutter 28 operates in a first state in which it distributes the game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 18 to the first passage 26a, and in a second state in which it distributes the game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 18 to the second passage 26b.

In this embodiment, when a game ball passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a during a special winning game and is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5, a jackpot is awarded, and the jackpot game occurs after the special winning game ends. In the following explanation, the fact that a game ball passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a during a special winning game and is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 is referred to as a "specific condition."

Thus, in this embodiment, in each of the special winning games ZA, ZB, ZC, and Za, the first special opening/closing piece 19 is operated in an operating pattern that allows the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18, and the distribution shutter 28 is operated in an operating pattern that allows the game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 18 to pass through the first passage 26a. Therefore, in this embodiment, in each of the special winning games ZA, ZB, ZC, and Za, a specific condition can be met to cause a big winning game. In particular, in this embodiment, in each of the special winning games ZA, ZB, ZC, and Za, if the game ball is hit to the right during the special winning game, the first special opening/closing piece 19 and the distribution shutter 28 are operated in an operation pattern such that the game ball enters the first large winning opening 18 and passes through the first passage 26a in principle. That is, in this embodiment, in each of the special winning games ZA, ZB, ZC, and Za, if the game ball is hit to the right during the special winning game, a specific condition is established in principle and a large winning game occurs.

On the other hand, in the special winning game Zb, the first special opening/closing piece 19 is operated in an operating pattern that effectively prevents the game ball from entering the first large winning hole 18. Therefore, in the special winning game Zb in this embodiment, the specific condition is not met as a general rule, and the large winning game does not occur.

In the following explanation, the jackpot games that occur when specific conditions are met in each of the special jackpot games ZA, ZB, ZC, Za, and Zb are referred to as "jackpot game ZA," "jackpot game ZB," "jackpot game ZC," "jackpot game Za," and "jackpot game Zb," respectively.

In this embodiment, in the jackpot games ZA and Za, the upper limit number of round games is set to 10 times. In addition, in the jackpot games ZB, ZC, and Zb, the upper limit number of round games is set to 2 times. In addition to the opening of the second large prize winning hole 20 in the jackpot game that occurs when a specific condition is established in the special prize game, the upper limit number of round games in this specification includes the opening of the first large prize winning hole 18 in the special prize game that triggered the jackpot game. In other words, when a jackpot game occurs based on the special prize ZA or Za, it can be said that 10 round games are executed, including the opening of the first large prize winning hole 18 in the special prize game and the opening of the second large prize winning hole 20 in the jackpot game based on the special prize. In addition, when a jackpot game is generated based on the special wins ZB, ZC, and Zb, it can be said that two rounds of play are played, including the opening of the first large prize opening 18 in the special win game and the opening of the second large prize opening 20 in the jackpot game based on the special win.

In this embodiment, for each jackpot game, the game state to which the game is controlled after the jackpot game ends and the end conditions of the time-saving state when the game is controlled to the time-saving state are determined. Specifically, after the end of each jackpot game, the game state is controlled to one that corresponds to the game state at the time of the jackpot. Here, the game state at the time of the jackpot refers to the game state at the time when a specific condition is established in the special jackpot game. That is, in this embodiment, the game state at the time of the jackpot is the game state when the game ball passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a in the special jackpot game and is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5.

For example, after the end of the jackpot game ZA, the game is controlled to the second time-saving state regardless of the game state at the time of the jackpot. Also, when the game is controlled to the second time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game ZA, if the game state at the time of the jackpot is a non-time-saving state, the end condition of the time-saving state becomes the fourth condition pattern, whereas if the game state at the time of the jackpot is a time-saving state, the end condition of the time-saving state becomes the second condition pattern. The end condition of the time-saving state will be described in detail later.

After the end of the jackpot game ZB, the game is controlled to the second time-saving state regardless of the game state at the time of the jackpot. Also, when the game is controlled to the second time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game ZB, if the game state at the time of the jackpot is a non-time-saving state, the end condition of the time-saving state becomes the second condition pattern, whereas if the game state at the time of the jackpot is a time-saving state, the end condition of the time-saving state becomes the fourth condition pattern.

After the jackpot game ZC ends, whether or not the game is controlled to the time-shortened state depends on the game state at the time of the jackpot. If the game state at the time of the jackpot is a non-time-shortened state, it will also be controlled to the non-time-shortened state after the jackpot game ZC ends. On the other hand, if the game state at the time of the jackpot is a time-shortened state, it will be controlled to the first time-shortened state after the jackpot game ZC ends. Also, if it is controlled to the first time-shortened state after the jackpot game ZC ends, the end condition for the time-shortened state will be the first condition pattern.

After the end of the jackpot game Za, the game is controlled to the second time-saving state regardless of the game state at the time of the jackpot. Also, when the game is controlled to the second time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game Za, if the game state at the time of the jackpot is the non-time-saving state, the end condition of the time-saving state is the second condition pattern, whereas if the game state at the time of the jackpot is the time-saving state, the end condition of the time-saving state is the third condition pattern. Also, after the end of the jackpot game Zb, the game is controlled to the non-time-saving state regardless of the game state at the time of the jackpot.

In this embodiment, a special hit corresponds to a special result. Also, in this embodiment, a special hit ZA corresponds to a fourth special result, a special hit ZB corresponds to a first special result, a special hit ZC corresponds to a specific special result, a special hit Za corresponds to a second special result, and a special hit Zb corresponds to a third special result.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment also has multiple types of time-saving symbols as special symbols. The multiple types of time-saving symbols each have a set type of time-saving win. In this embodiment, the first special symbols include multiple types of time-saving symbols. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the second special symbols do not include any time-saving symbols. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is configured so that while it is possible to win a time-saving win in the first special lottery, it is not possible to win a time-saving win in the second special lottery.

The time-saving patterns of the first special patterns are classified into two groups, time-saving pattern ZX and time-saving pattern ZY, at a predetermined ratio. Specifically, in this embodiment, of the 100 types of first special patterns classified as time-saving patterns, 20 types of special patterns are classified as time-saving pattern ZX, and 80 types of special patterns are classified as time-saving pattern ZY. In the following explanation, a time-saving hit based on a special pattern classified as time-saving pattern ZX is referred to as a "time-saving hit ZX," and a time-saving hit based on a special pattern classified as time-saving pattern ZY is referred to as a "time-saving hit ZY."

In this embodiment, when a time-saving hit is won, the game is controlled to the time-saving state without a winning game being generated after the special game in which the time-saving symbol is derived ends.
For example, when the time-saving winning ZX is won, the game is controlled to the second time-saving state after the special game in which the time-saving symbol ZX is derived ends. When the game is controlled to the second time-saving state after the special game in which the time-saving symbol ZX is derived ends, the end condition of the time-saving state becomes the third condition pattern.

In addition, if the time-saving win ZY is won, the game will be controlled to the first time-saving state after the special game in which the time-saving pattern ZY is derived ends. And, if the game is controlled to the first time-saving state after the special game in which the time-saving pattern ZY is derived ends, the end condition of the time-saving state will be the first condition pattern.

In this embodiment, the time-saving per unit corresponds to a specific result. In this embodiment, the time-saving per unit ZX corresponds to a second specific result, and the time-saving per unit ZY corresponds to a first specific result.
Here, a condition pattern that defines the end condition of the time-saving state in this embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 3(c), in this embodiment, there are multiple types of condition patterns for the condition for terminating the time-saving state. Each condition pattern has a specified termination condition for terminating the time-saving state.

For example, in the first condition pattern, the first number of operations (e.g., 1324 times) is set as the number of operations that will satisfy the number of times end condition. That is, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the first condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when the first number of operations of the special game are executed after the time-saving state is controlled. Also, in the first condition pattern, the special win ZA, special win ZB, and special win Za are set as the types of special wins that will satisfy the special win end condition, and one time is set as the upper limit number of wins for each special win. That is, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the first condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when any of the special symbols ZA, ZB, and Za is derived in the special game. On the other hand, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the first condition pattern, the time-saving state does not end when the special symbol ZC or Zb is derived in the special game. In other words, when the condition for terminating the time-saving state is the first condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when either the special hit ZA, the special hit ZB, or the special hit Za is won once, whereas the time-saving state does not end when either the special hit ZC or the special hit Zb is won.

In the second condition pattern, the number of times of operation for the number of times end condition to be satisfied is not specified. In other words, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the second condition pattern, the time-saving state does not end when the number of times end condition is satisfied. In addition, in the second condition pattern, the types of special hits for which the special hit end condition is satisfied are specified as special hit ZB, special hit ZC, special hit Za, and special hit Zb, and the upper limit number of times each special hit can be won is set to one. In other words, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the second condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when any of the special patterns ZB, ZC, Za, and Zb is derived in the special game. On the other hand, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the second condition pattern, the time-saving state does not end when the special pattern ZA is derived in the special game. In other words, if the condition for terminating the time-saving state is the second condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when one of the special wins ZB, ZC, Za, and Zb is won, but the time-saving state does not end when one of the special wins ZA is won.

In the third condition pattern, the second number of operations (for example, 13 times) is set as the number of operations at which the number of times end condition is satisfied. That is, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the third condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when the special game is executed the second number of operations after being controlled to the time-saving state. In this embodiment, the second number of operations is less than the first number of operations. In addition, in the third condition pattern, the special hit ZB and the special hit ZC are set as the types of special hits at which the special hit end condition is satisfied, and one time is set as the upper limit number of times each special hit can be won. That is, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the third condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when either the special pattern ZB or the special pattern ZC is derived in the special game. On the other hand, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the third condition pattern, the time-saving state does not end when either the special pattern ZA, the special pattern Za, or the special pattern Zb is derived in the special game. In other words, if the condition for terminating the time-saving state is the third condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when either the special hit ZB or the special hit ZC is won once, but the time-saving state does not end when the special hit ZA, special hit Za, or special hit Zb is won.

In the fourth condition pattern, the number of times of operation for the number of times end condition to be satisfied is not specified. In other words, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the fourth condition pattern, the time-saving state does not end when the number of times end condition is satisfied. In addition, in the fourth condition pattern, the special hit ZC and the special hit Za are specified as the types of special hits for which the special hit end condition is satisfied, and the upper limit number of times each special hit can be won is set to one. In other words, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the fourth condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when either the special pattern ZC or the special pattern Za is derived in the special game. On the other hand, when the end condition of the time-saving state is the fourth condition pattern, the time-saving state does not end when either the special pattern ZA, the special pattern ZB, or the special pattern Zb is derived in the special game. In other words, if the condition for terminating the time-saving state is the fourth condition pattern, the time-saving state ends when either the special hit ZC or the special hit Za is won once, but the time-saving state does not end when the special hit ZA, special hit ZB, or special hit Zb is won.

In this embodiment, even if the end condition of the time-saving state is any of the first to fourth condition patterns, the time-saving state ends when the big win end condition is satisfied. Similarly, in this embodiment, even if the end condition of the time-saving state is any of the first to fourth condition patterns, the time-saving state ends when the initialization end condition is satisfied.

In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, when it is controlled to the first time-saving state, the end condition of the time-saving state is the first condition pattern, while when it is controlled to the second time-saving state, the end condition of the time-saving state is any one of the second condition pattern to the fourth condition pattern. In this embodiment, the first time-saving state when the end condition is the first condition pattern corresponds to the first specific game state. The second time-saving state when the end condition is the second condition pattern corresponds to the second specific game state. The second time-saving state when the end condition is the third condition pattern corresponds to the third specific game state. The second time-saving state when the end condition is the fourth condition pattern corresponds to the fourth specific game state. In the following description, the first time-saving state when the end condition is the first condition pattern may be referred to as the first specific game state. Similarly, in the following description, the second time-saving state when the end condition is the second condition pattern may be referred to as the second specific game state, the second time-saving state when the end condition is the third condition pattern may be referred to as the third specific game state, and the second time-saving state when the end condition is the fourth condition pattern may be referred to as the fourth specific game state.

Due to such conditions for terminating the time-saving state, in this embodiment, when the condition for terminating the time-saving state is the first condition pattern, the first time-saving state ends when the number of special games played since control to the first time-saving state reaches the first activation number. In other words, in this embodiment, when controlled to the first special game state, it can be said that the state is controlled to the non-special game state when the maximum number of special games has been played since control to the first special game state.

In addition, in this embodiment, when the termination condition of the time-saving state is the second condition pattern, the second time-saving state ends when the special win Zb is won, but does not end when the number of special games played since control to the second time-saving state reaches a predetermined number of times. In other words, in this embodiment, the second specific game state ends when the first termination condition is met, whereby the result of the special lottery is the third special result, but does not end when the second termination condition is met, whereby a specific number of special games are played since control to the specific game state.

On the other hand, when the termination condition of the time-saving state is the third condition pattern, the second time-saving state ends when the number of special games executed since control to the second time-saving state reaches the second activation number, but does not end when the special win Zb is won. In other words, in this embodiment, the third specific game state ends when the second termination condition is met, whereby a specific number of special games are executed since control to the specific game state, but does not end when the first termination condition is met, whereby the result of the special lottery is the third special result.

In addition, if the termination condition for the time-saving state is the fourth condition pattern, the second time-saving state does not end when a special win Zb is won, nor does it end when the number of special games played since control to the second time-saving state reaches a predetermined number of times. In other words, in this embodiment, the fourth specific game state does not end when the first termination condition is met, nor does it end when the second termination condition is met.

Next, the effect symbol variation game executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
In this embodiment, the performance display device 12 is capable of executing a performance pattern change game in which the performance patterns are displayed in a plurality of rows and a combination of performance patterns is ultimately derived. That is, in this embodiment, the performance display device 12 corresponds to a performance pattern display means that displays the performance patterns. In the following description, the performance pattern change game is abbreviated to "performance game". The performance patterns are patterns (decorative patterns) decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are intended to diversify the display performance. In this embodiment, the performance game is performed by displaying (scrolling) the first, second, and third pattern rows in a predetermined direction.

The effect game is started with the start of the special game and is ended with the end of the special game. Specifically, in the effect game, the effect symbols are temporarily displayed in a stopped state in each of the first to third symbol rows (hereinafter referred to as a "temporary stop display"), and then the effect symbols temporarily displayed in each symbol row are displayed as a fixed stop display, thereby deriving a combination of effect symbols. In the effect game, a combination of effect symbols according to the special symbols derived in the special game is derived. Specifically, when a special symbol (special winning result) is derived in the special game, a symbol combination of a special winning effect by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. Furthermore, when a time-saving symbol (time-saving winning result) is derived in the special game, a symbol combination of a time-saving winning effect by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. And, when a losing symbol (losing result) is derived in the special game, a losing symbol combination by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. In the following description, the special game and the effect game may be collectively referred to as "variable games".

Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
As shown in Fig. 4, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main control board 40. The main control board 40 performs various processes and outputs control signals such as control commands, which are an example of control information, depending on the results of the processes. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a sub-control board 50. The main control board 40 and the sub-control board 50 are connected so that a control signal can be output in one direction from the main control board 40 to the sub-control board 50. The sub-control board 50 executes a predetermined process based on the control signal input from the main control board 40.

The main control board 40 will now be described in detail.
The main control board 40 includes a microprocessor 41. The microprocessor 41 includes a processing unit (hereinafter referred to as the main control CPU 41a) and a storage unit (memory). The main control CPU 41a executes various processes by executing a program for main control. The storage unit of the microprocessor 41 includes a ROM area (hereinafter referred to as the main control ROM 41b) from which information can be read but to which information cannot be written, and a RAM area (hereinafter referred to as the main control RAM 41c) from which information can be read and written.

The main control ROM 41b stores judgment values and tables used for various judgments and lotteries. The main control ROM 41b stores multiple types of fluctuation patterns. The fluctuation pattern is fluctuation information that can identify the fluctuation content of the fluctuation game. In particular, in this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern is information that can identify the fluctuation time from the start to the end of the special game. The fluctuation pattern may be information that can identify the presentation content of the presentation game that is performed during the execution of the special game.

The main control RAM 41c stores various information that is rewritten depending on the results of processing by the main control CPU 41a. In other words, the main control RAM 41c corresponds to a storage means for storing various information. For example, the information stored in the main control RAM 41c is a flag, a counter, a timer, etc. The microprocessor 41 is equipped with a random number circuit (not shown) that generates hardware random numbers. The microprocessor 41 may be capable of generating software random numbers by the random number generation process by the main control CPU 41a. Note that the main control CPU 41a, main control ROM 41b, and main control RAM 41c are not limited to being configured on a single chip as the microprocessor 41, and may each be configured separately.

The main control CPU 41a detects the first start winning sensor SE1, the second start winning sensor SE2, and the first
The main control CPU 41a is connected to the count sensor SE3, the second count sensor SE4, the specific passage sensor SE5, and the gate sensor SE6. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to input detection signals outputted when each sensor detects a gaming ball. The main control CPU 41a is connected to the information display device 13. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the display contents of the information display device 13.

The main control CPU 41a is connected to the first solenoid SL1, the second solenoid SL2, the third solenoid SL3, and the fourth solenoid SL4. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the normal movable piece 16 by controlling the first solenoid SL1. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the first special opening/closing piece 19 by controlling the second solenoid SL2. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the second special opening/closing piece 21 by controlling the third solenoid SL3. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the distribution shutter 28 by controlling the fourth solenoid SL4.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a backup power supply (not shown) capable of supplying power to the main control board 40 after the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off. The backup power supply is, for example, a capacitor or a secondary battery. The main control board 40 is supplied with power from the pachinko gaming machine 10 when power is supplied to the pachinko gaming machine 10, and is supplied with power from the backup power supply after the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off, thereby enabling various information stored in the main control RAM 41c to be stored and held (backed up). Information that can be stored and held by the main control RAM 41c includes, for example, information that can identify the result of a special lottery. In other words, the main control RAM 41c is configured to be able to store and hold the result of a special lottery even if the power supply from outside the machine is cut off.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment also includes a RAM clear switch CS that can be operated to erase the contents stored in the main control RAM 41c. The main control CPU 41a is connected to the RAM clear switch CS via a RAM clear switch circuit (not shown). The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to input an operation signal that is output when the RAM clear switch CS is operated (pressed). When the main control CPU 41a inputs an operation signal indicating that the RAM clear switch CS has been operated when the power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine 10, the main control CPU 41a executes a RAM clear process as initialization control to initialize (erase) various information stored in the main control RAM 41c.

Next, the sub-control board 50 will be described in detail.
The sub-control board 50 includes a sub-control CPU 50a, a sub-control ROM 50b, and a sub-control RAM 50c. The sub-control CPU 50a executes a program for sub-control to perform various processes related to the performance. The sub-control ROM 50b stores the sub-control program and a judgment value used for a predetermined lottery. The sub-control ROM 50b stores display performance data used for display performance, light-emitting performance data used for light-emitting performance, audio performance data used for audio performance, and movable body performance data used for movable body performance.

The sub-control RAM 50c stores various information that is rewritten during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the sub-control RAM 50c includes flags, counters, and timers. In this embodiment, the sub-control board 50 is also configured to be capable of generating software random numbers through a random number generation process performed by the sub-control CPU 50a. The sub-control board 50 may also be equipped with a random number generation circuit and be capable of generating hardware random numbers.

The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the performance display device 12. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the display contents of the performance display device 12. The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to a decorative lamp LA. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp LA. The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to a speaker SP. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the output mode of the speaker SP.

Next, various processes performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described.
First, the control when the power is turned on in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described.
In the power-on process, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the RAM clear switch CS has been operated to the on state based on whether an operation signal has been received from the RAM clear switch CS.

When the RAM clear switch CS is operated to the ON state, the main control CPU 41a performs RAM clear processing of the main control RAM 41c. In the RAM clear processing of the main control RAM 41c, the main control CPU 41a initializes (deletes) the stored contents of the main control RAM 41c. That is, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a functions as an initialization control means capable of controlling the initialization of information stored in the main control RAM 41c. In addition, the main control CPU 41a outputs a RAM clear command to the sub-control board 50 in conjunction with the execution of the RAM clear processing of the main control RAM 41c. Next, the main control CPU 41a controls the state so that a special game can be executed. After that, the main control CPU 41a ends the RAM clear processing of the main control RAM 41c and ends the power-on processing.

On the other hand, if the RAM clear switch CS is not turned on, the main control CPU 41a checks whether there is a backup abnormality, that is, whether there is an abnormality in the contents stored in the main control RAM 41c. If there is a backup abnormality, the main control CPU 41a performs the RAM clear process in the same way as when the RAM clear switch CS of the main control RAM 41c is turned on.

On the other hand, if there is no backup abnormality, the main control CPU 41a performs a recovery process. When the recovery process starts, the main control CPU 41a outputs a recovery command to the sub-control board 50. Next, the main control CPU 41a controls the special game to a state in which it can be executed based on various information stored (backed up) in the main control RAM 41c. After that, the main control CPU 41a ends the recovery process and the power-on process.

Next, the special symbol input process will be described.
In the special symbol input process, the main control CPU 41a judges whether the game ball has entered the first start winning port 14 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the first start winning sensor SE1. When the game ball has entered the first start winning port 14, the main control CPU 41a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). When the first special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a adds 1 to the first special reserved number to update it. Next, the main control CPU 41a controls the first special reserved display unit 13c to display information that can identify the updated first special reserved number. In this way, the reservation condition of the first special game is established when the game ball is detected by the first start winning sensor SE1 when the first special reserved number is less than the upper limit number. At this time, the main control CPU 41a generates information that can identify the updated first special reserved number (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved number command) and sets it in the output buffer. In this embodiment, the information (control command) set in the output buffer is output to the sub-control board 50 in a predetermined output process.

Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires random numbers generated in the main control board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 41c. For example, the random numbers are special winning random numbers used in a special lottery, special symbol random numbers used in a lottery to determine special symbols, and variation pattern random numbers used to determine variation patterns. The main control CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number by a predetermined method. The pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment can suspend the execution of the first special game until the start condition of the first special game is satisfied by storing the random number information used in the first special game in the main control RAM 41c.

When the random number information for the first special game is stored in the main control RAM 41c, if the game ball has not entered the first start winning port 14 and if the first special reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the game ball has entered the second start winning port 15 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start winning sensor SE2. If the game ball has entered the second start winning port 15, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the second special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c is less than the upper limit number (2 in this embodiment). If the second special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a updates the second special reserved number by adding 1. At this time, the main control CPU 41a controls the second special reserved display unit 13d to display information that can identify the updated second special reserved number. In this way, the reservation condition for the second special game is met when the second special reservation number is less than the upper limit and a game ball is detected by the second start winning sensor SE2. At this time, the main control CPU 41a also generates information that can identify the updated second special reservation number (hereinafter referred to as the second reservation number command) and sets it in the output buffer.

The main control CPU 41a then acquires the random numbers generated within the main control board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 41c. The main control CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that the random number information is to be used in the second special game, and the order in which the random number information is stored. By storing the random number information to be used in the second special game in the main control RAM 41c, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can suspend the execution of the second special game until the execution conditions for the second special game are met.

Next, the special symbol start process will be described.
In the special symbol start process, the main control CPU 41a judges whether the execution condition of the special game is satisfied. The main control CPU 41a judges positively when the game is not winning and the special game is not being executed, whereas it judges negatively when the game is winning or the special game is being executed. When the execution condition of the special game is not satisfied, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start process. When the execution condition of the special game is satisfied, the main control CPU 41a judges whether the second special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c is "1" or more. When the second special reserved number is "1" or more, the main control CPU 41a executes a process to execute the second special game. On the other hand, when the second special reserved number is not "1" or more, the main control CPU 41a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c is "1" or more. When the first special reserved number is "1" or more, the main control CPU 41a executes a process to execute the first special game. On the other hand, if the first special reserved number is not "1" or more, the main control CPU 41a terminates the special pattern start processing.

When the main control CPU 41a executes a process for executing a special game, it first updates the special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c by subtracting "1". Specifically, when the main control CPU 41a executes a first special game, it updates the first special reserved number by subtracting "1" and controls the first special reserved display unit 13c so that the updated first special reserved number is displayed. At this time, the main control CPU 41a generates a first reserved number command indicating the updated first special reserved number and sets it in the output buffer. Similarly, when the main control CPU 41a executes a second special game, it updates the second special reserved number by subtracting "1" and controls the second special reserved display unit 13d so that the updated second special reserved number is displayed. At this time, the main control CPU 41a generates a second reserved number command indicating the updated second special reserved number and sets it in the output buffer.

Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires the random number information for the special game that was stored first from the main control RAM 41c. The main control CPU 41a then conducts a special lottery using the special winning random number identified from the acquired random number information. Specifically, when the main control CPU 41a executes a first special game, it acquires the random number information for the first special game that was stored first from the main control RAM 41c, and conducts a first special lottery using the special winning random number identified from the acquired random number information. Similarly, when the main control CPU 41a executes a second special game, it acquires the random number information for the second special game that was stored first from the main control RAM 41c, and conducts a second special lottery using the special winning random number identified from the acquired random number information.

Here, the main control CPU 41a judges whether or not a special win will be won by judging whether or not the value of the special win random number matches the special win judgment value stored in the main control ROM 41b. If the value of the special win random number matches the special win judgment value, the main control CPU 41a performs special win variation processing. In the special win variation processing, the main control CPU 41a determines a special pattern from among the special patterns classified as special patterns by conducting a lottery to determine the special pattern based on the value of the special pattern random number specified from the acquired random number information. This determined special pattern becomes the confirmed stop pattern derived in the special game. Furthermore, when the main control CPU 41a determines a special pattern, it determines a variation pattern from among the variation patterns for the special win by conducting a lottery to determine a variation pattern based on the value of the variation pattern random number specified from the acquired random number information.

On the other hand, if the value of the special win random number does not match the special win judgment value, the main control CPU 41a determines whether or not the player has won the time-saving win by determining whether or not the value of the special win random number matches the time-saving win judgment value stored in the main control ROM 41b.

At this time, the main control CPU 41a judges whether or not a time-saving hit will be won using a time-saving hit judgment value that differs depending on the current game state. For this reason, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a time-saving hit during a non-time-saving state differs from the probability of winning a time-saving hit during a time-saving state. For example, in a non-time-saving state, the time-saving hit judgment value may be allocated so that there is a higher probability of winning a time-saving hit compared to when the time-saving state is in effect. Specifically, in this embodiment, the time-saving hit judgment value is allocated so that while a time-saving hit can be won during a non-time-saving state, a time-saving hit cannot be won during a time-saving state. That is, in this embodiment, while the result of the special lottery may be a time-saving hit in a non-time-saving state, the result of the special lottery does not result in a time-saving hit in a time-saving state.

The main control CPU 41a also uses different time-saving hit judgment values for the first special lottery and the second special lottery to determine whether or not a time-saving hit will be won. For this reason, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a time-saving hit in the first special lottery is different from the probability of winning a time-saving hit in the second special lottery. For example, the time-saving hit judgment value may be allocated so that there is a higher probability of winning a time-saving hit in the first special lottery compared to the second special lottery. Specifically, in this embodiment, the time-saving hit judgment value is allocated so that while it is possible to win a time-saving hit in the first special lottery, it is not possible to win a time-saving hit in the second special lottery.

In particular, in this embodiment, when the first special lottery is held during a non-time-saving state, and the value of the special win random number does not match the special win judgment value, the time-saving win judgment value is allocated so that the time-saving win is always won. In other words, in this embodiment, in a non-time-saving state, the result of the first special lottery will be either a special win or a time-saving win.

As described above, in this embodiment, of the 100 types of first special symbols classified as time-saving symbols, 20 types of special symbols are classified as time-saving symbols ZX, and 80 types of special symbols are classified as time-saving symbols ZY. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the first special lottery is held during a non-time-saving state, the probability that the result of the special lottery will be a time-saving symbol ZY is higher than the probability that the result of the special lottery will be a time-saving symbol ZX.

When the value of the special win random number matches the time-saving win judgment value, the main control CPU 41a performs time-saving win fluctuation processing. In the time-saving win fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 41a determines one of the special patterns classified as time-saving patterns by holding a lottery to determine the special pattern based on the value of the special pattern random number specified from the acquired random number information. This determined special pattern becomes the confirmed stop pattern derived in the special game. Furthermore, when the main control CPU 41a determines a special pattern, it determines the fluctuation pattern from the fluctuation patterns for the time-saving win by holding a lottery to determine the fluctuation pattern based on the value of the fluctuation pattern random number specified from the acquired random number information.

Then, if the value of the special win random number does not match the time-saving win judgment value, the main control CPU 41a performs a loss variation process. In the loss variation process, the main control CPU 41a determines a special pattern as a loss pattern. This determined special pattern becomes the confirmed stop pattern derived in the special game. Furthermore, when the main control CPU 41a determines a special pattern, it determines a variation pattern from among loss variation patterns by conducting a variation pattern determination lottery based on the value of the variation pattern random number specified from the acquired random number information. When the main control CPU 41a determines the variation pattern, it ends the special pattern start process.

When the special symbol start process is completed, the main control CPU 41a executes a special game by performing a process other than the special symbol start process. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a controls the display content of the information display device 13 so as to start the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The main control CPU 41a also sets information (hereinafter referred to as a special symbol designation command) that designates the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process in the output buffer. The main control CPU 41a also sets information (hereinafter referred to as a variation pattern designation command) that designates the variation pattern and instructs the start of the performance game in the output buffer. The main control CPU 41a also measures the variation time determined for the variation pattern determined in the special symbol start process. Then, the main control CPU 41a controls the information display device 13 so that the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process is derived when the variation time determined for the variation pattern has elapsed. In addition, when the change time set for the change pattern determined in the special pattern start process has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a sets information for deriving the combination of performance patterns (hereinafter referred to as the all pattern stop command) in the output buffer.

Next, the special win process performed by the main control CPU 41a for generating a special win game will be described.
After the special game for the special win is completed, the main control CPU 41a performs special win processing. In the special win processing, the main control CPU 41a performs control according to the type of the special win won, thereby generating a special win game based on the special win won.

First, the main control CPU 41a starts measuring the opening time, and generates information capable of identifying the start of the special winning game (hereinafter, referred to as the special winning game start command) and sets it in the output buffer. When the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a controls the second solenoid SL2 so that the first large winning opening 18 is opened based on a predetermined opening pattern, and generates information capable of identifying that the first large winning opening 18 has been opened (hereinafter, referred to as the opening start command) and sets it in the output buffer. After that, when the ball entry condition or the time lapse condition is established, the main control CPU 41a controls the second solenoid SL2 so that the first large winning opening 18 is closed, and generates information capable of identifying that the first large winning opening 18 has been closed (hereinafter, referred to as the opening end command) and sets it in the output buffer. After that, the main control CPU 41a starts measuring the ending time. Then, when the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a generates information capable of specifying the end of the special win game (hereinafter, referred to as a special win game end command) and sets it in the output buffer. After that, the main control CPU 41a ends the special win processing.

In addition, in the special win process, the main control CPU 41a controls the fourth solenoid SL4 to operate the distribution shutter 28 based on a predetermined operation pattern during the special win game. Then, if the operation of the distribution shutter 28 based on the predetermined operation pattern has not ended at the end of the special win game, the main control CPU 41a controls the fourth solenoid SL4 to end the operation of the distribution shutter 28 with the end of the special win game.

Next, the big win process for generating a big win game as a special game performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described.
When a game ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during a special winning game, the main control CPU 41a performs a jackpot process after the special winning game ends. In the jackpot process, the main control CPU 41a performs control according to the type of special winning that triggered the jackpot game, thereby generating a jackpot game based on the special winning that was won. That is, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery is a special winning, a jackpot game based on the special winning can be generated thereafter.

In the jackpot process, the main control CPU 41a starts measuring the opening time and generates information capable of identifying the start of the jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot game start command) and sets it in the output buffer. When the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a performs processing to execute the round game. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a controls the third solenoid SL3 so that the second large prize winning hole 20 is opened based on a predetermined opening pattern, and starts the round game. Then, after starting the round game, when the first round end condition or the second round end condition is established, the main control CPU 41a controls the third solenoid SL3 so that the second large prize winning hole 20 is closed, and ends the round game. The main control CPU 41a repeats such processing to execute the round game until the upper limit number of round games is completed. In addition, the main control CPU 41a generates information capable of identifying the start of the round game (hereinafter referred to as the round start command) and sets it in the output buffer every time the round game is started. In addition, each time a round of play ends, the main control CPU 41a generates information that can identify the end of the round of play (hereinafter referred to as a round end command) and sets it in the output buffer.

When the final round of play ends, the main control CPU 41a starts measuring the ending time. Then, when the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a generates information capable of identifying the end of the jackpot game (hereinafter, the jackpot game end command) and sets it in the output buffer. After that, the main control CPU 41a ends the jackpot processing.

Next, we will explain the processing related to the game state performed by the main control CPU 41a. In this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a performs processing related to the game state, thereby realizing a state control means that controls the game state.

The main control CPU 41a can control the game state by setting a predetermined value to the operation flag stored in the main control RAM 41c. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a controls the game state to the non-time-shortened state by setting the operation flag to a value that can identify the non-time-shortened state. The main control CPU 41a controls the game state to the first time-shortened state by setting the operation flag to a value that can identify the first time-shortened state. The main control CPU 41a controls the game state to the second time-shortened state by setting the operation flag to a value that can identify the second time-shortened state.

The main control CPU 41a can set the end condition of the time-saving state by setting a predetermined value to the condition pattern flag stored in the main control RAM 41c. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a sets the first condition pattern as the condition pattern of the end condition of the time-saving state by setting a value that can identify the first condition pattern to the condition pattern flag. The main control CPU 41a sets the second condition pattern as the condition pattern of the end condition of the time-saving state by setting a value that can identify the second condition pattern to the condition pattern flag. The main control CPU 41a sets the third condition pattern as the condition pattern of the end condition of the time-saving state by setting a value that can identify the third condition pattern to the condition pattern flag. The main control CPU 41a sets the fourth condition pattern as the condition pattern of the end condition of the time-saving state by setting a value that can identify the fourth condition pattern to the condition pattern flag.

In this embodiment, the values set in the activation flag and the condition pattern flag correspond to game state information that can identify the current game state. That is, in this embodiment, the main control RAM 41c, which stores the values of the activation flag and the condition pattern flag, corresponds to a storage means that stores game state information that can identify the current game state. When the main control CPU 41a updates the values of the activation flag and the condition pattern flag, it generates a game state command that can identify the current game state and sets it in the output buffer.

When the main control CPU 41a is in the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets the activation flag to a value that can identify a non-time-saving state when a specific special symbol is drawn in a special game, and erases the value of the condition pattern flag. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the time-saving state to end when the special win end condition is met.

Specifically, when the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets the activation flag to a value that can identify a non-time-saving state when any of the special patterns ZA, ZB, and Za are derived, and erases the value of the condition pattern flag. On the other hand, when the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a does not update the values of the activation flag and the condition pattern flag when any of the special patterns ZC and Zb are derived. In other words, when the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state when any of the special patterns ZA, ZB, and Za are won, but does not end the time-saving state when any of the special patterns ZC and Zb are won.

When the second condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets the activation flag to a value that can identify a non-time-saving state when any of the special patterns ZB, ZC, Za, or Zb is derived, and erases the value of the condition pattern flag. On the other hand, when the second condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a does not update the values of the activation flag and the condition pattern flag when the special pattern ZA is derived. In other words, when the second condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state when any of the special patterns ZB, ZC, Za, or Zb is won, but does not end the time-saving state when the special pattern ZA is won.

When the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets a value that can identify the non-time-saving state to the operation flag when either the special pattern ZB or ZC is derived, and erases the value of the condition pattern flag.
When the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a does not update the values of the operation flag and the condition pattern flag when any of the special symbols ZA, Za, or Zb is derived. In other words, when the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state when any of the special symbols ZB or ZC is won, but does not end the time-saving state when any of the special symbols ZA, Za, or Zb is won.

When the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets the activation flag to a value that can identify a non-time-saving state when any of the special patterns ZC and Za are derived, and erases the value of the condition pattern flag. On the other hand, when the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a does not update the values of the activation flag and the condition pattern flag when any of the special patterns ZA, ZB, and Zb are derived. In other words, when the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state when any of the special patterns ZC and Za are won, but does not end the time-saving state when any of the special patterns ZA, ZB, and Zb are won.

When starting a jackpot game, the main control CPU 41a sets a value that can identify a non-time-saving state to the activation flag and erases the value of the condition pattern flag. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the end of the time-saving state when the jackpot end condition is met.

When the main control CPU 41a ends a jackpot game, it updates the values of the operation flag and the condition pattern flag according to the game state at the time of the jackpot and the type of jackpot game. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control to a time-saving state when the jackpot control condition is met. That is, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a is capable of first state control, which controls to a time-saving state when the jackpot game ends.

Specifically, when the main control CPU 41a ends a jackpot game ZA and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a non-time-shortened state, it sets the activation flag to a value that can identify the second time-shortened state and sets the condition pattern flag to a value that can identify the fourth condition pattern. When the main control CPU 41a ends a jackpot game ZA and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a time-shortened state, it sets the activation flag to a value that can identify the second time-shortened state and sets the condition pattern flag to a value that can identify the second condition pattern.

When the main control CPU 41a ends a jackpot game ZB and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a non-time-shortened state, it sets the activation flag to a value that can identify the second time-shortened state and sets the condition pattern flag to a value that can identify the second condition pattern. When the main control CPU 41a ends a jackpot game ZB and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a time-shortened state, it sets the activation flag to a value that can identify the second time-shortened state and sets the condition pattern flag to a value that can identify the fourth condition pattern.

When the main control CPU 41a ends a jackpot game ZC and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a non-time-shortened state, the main control CPU 41a does not update the values of the operation flag and the condition pattern flag. In other words, when the main control CPU 41a ends a jackpot game ZC and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a non-time-shortened state, the main control CPU 41a continues to control the game to a non-time-shortened state even after the jackpot game ends. When the main control CPU 41a ends a jackpot game ZC and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a time-shortened state, the main control CPU 41a sets the operation flag to a value that can identify the first time-shortened state and sets the condition pattern flag to a value that can identify the first condition pattern.

When the main control CPU 41a ends the jackpot game Za and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a non-time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets the operation flag to a value that can identify the second time-saving state and sets the condition pattern flag to a value that can identify the second condition pattern. That is, in this embodiment, when a special game based on a second special result occurs in a non-specific game state, the main control CPU 41a can be said to control to the second specific game state after the special game ends. When the main control CPU 41a ends the jackpot game Za and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets the operation flag to a value that can identify the second time-saving state and sets the condition pattern flag to a value that can identify the third condition pattern. That is, in this embodiment, when a special game based on a second special result occurs in a specific game state, the main control CPU 41a can be said to control to the third specific game state after the special game ends.

When the main control CPU 41a ends the jackpot game Zb, it does not update the values of the operation flag and the condition pattern flag regardless of whether the game state at the time of the jackpot was a non-time-saving state or a time-saving state. In other words, when the main control CPU 41a ends the jackpot game Zb, it continues to control the game to a non-time-saving state even after the jackpot game ends, regardless of the game state at the time of the jackpot.

In addition, when the main control CPU 41a wins a time-saving hit, it updates the values of the operation flag and the condition pattern flag according to the type of time-saving hit. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control to the time-saving state when the time-saving hit control condition is met. In other words, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a is capable of second state control, which controls to the time-saving state when the result of the special lottery is a time-saving hit.

Specifically, when the main control CPU 41a wins the time-saving prize ZX, it sets the activation flag to a value that can identify the second time-saving state, and sets the condition pattern flag to a value that can identify the third condition pattern. When the main control CPU 41a wins the time-saving prize ZY, it sets the activation flag to a value that can identify the first time-saving state, and sets the condition pattern flag to a value that can identify the first condition pattern.

In addition, when a special game is executed a predetermined number of times after control to the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets a value that can identify a non-time-saving state to the activation flag and erases the value of the condition pattern flag. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the time-saving state to end when the count end condition is met.

Specifically, when the first or third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a counts the number of special games executed since the time-saving state was controlled by updating the value of a predetermined counter in the main control RAM 41c each time a special game is executed during the time-saving state. When the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets a value that can identify a non-time-saving state to the activation flag and erases the value of the condition pattern flag when the number of special games executed since the time-saving state has been controlled to reach the first activation count. When the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a sets a value that can identify a non-time-saving state to the activation flag and erases the value of the condition pattern flag when the number of special games executed since the time-saving state has been controlled to reach the second activation count. That is, when the first or third condition pattern is set as the end condition for the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a can control the time-saving state to end when the count end condition is met.

On the other hand, when the second or fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a does not update the values of the operation flag and the condition pattern flag when a certain number of special games have been played since the time-saving state was entered. In other words, when the second or fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a does not end the time-saving state when the establishment of the number-of-play end condition is set.

In addition, in the RAM clear process, the main control CPU 41a sets the activation flag to a value that can identify a non-time-save state, and erases the value of the condition pattern flag. In other words, in the RAM clear process, the main control CPU 41a initializes the game state information. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the game to end the time-save state when the initialization end condition is met. That is, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a is capable of third state control, which controls the game to a non-time-save state when the game state information is initialized in the RAM clear process.

Next, the normal symbol input process performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described.
In the normal symbol input process, when the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal from the gate sensor SE6 and the normal reserved number is less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 41a adds 1 to the normal reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c to update it, and controls the normal reserved display unit 13f to display the updated normal reserved number. After that, the main control CPU 41a acquires the random number generated in the main control board 40, and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main control RAM 41c. In this case, the main control CPU 41a stores the random number information for the normal game and the storage order of the random number information so that it can be specified. For example, the random number is a normal winning random number used for normal winning judgment (normal lottery). After that, the main control CPU 41a ends the normal symbol input process.

Next, the normal pattern start processing performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described.
In the normal symbol start process, when the normal winning game is not being played and the normal game is not being executed, and the normal reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c is 1 or more, the main control CPU 41a subtracts 1 from the normal reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c to update it. Also, at this time, the main control CPU 41a controls the normal reserved display section 13f so that the updated normal reserved number is displayed. Next, the main control CPU 41a reads out the random number information stored first among the random number information for the normal game from the main control RAM 41c, and performs a normal lottery based on the read random number information. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a performs a normal lottery by determining whether the value of the normal winning random number matches the normal winning judgment value stored in the main control ROM 41b. At this time, the main control CPU 41a performs a normal lottery using a normal winning judgment value that differs depending on the current game state. For example, in this embodiment, the normal win determination value is assigned to each game state so that when the game is not in a time-saving state, a normal win will not be won regardless of the value of the normal win random number, whereas when the game is in a time-saving state, a normal win will be won regardless of the value of the normal win random number.

The main control CPU 41a then determines the normal symbol to be derived in the normal game and the normal game fluctuation time. After that, the main control CPU 41a ends the normal symbol start process. At this time, the main control CPU 41a may determine a shorter time as the normal game fluctuation time when in the time-saving state compared to when in the non-time-saving state (or may make it easier to determine a shorter time as the normal game fluctuation time).

The main control CPU 41a then executes a normal game by performing a process separate from the normal symbol start process. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a starts the normal game and controls the information display device 13 so that the normal symbol determined in the normal symbol start process is derived when the variable time determined in the normal symbol start process has elapsed.

Next, the normal win processing performed by the main control CPU 41a will be explained. When the normal game of a normal win ends, the main control CPU 41a executes the normal win processing. In the normal win processing, the main control CPU 41a generates a normal win game by controlling the first solenoid SL1 to operate the normal movable piece 16 to the second operating state in an operating mode determined by the normal symbol (type of normal win).

By performing this normal symbol input process, normal symbol start process, and normal hit process, the main control CPU 41a operates the normal movable piece 16 so that when the time-saving state is active, it is easier for the game ball to enter the second start winning hole 15 than when the time-saving state is not active.

The main control CPU 41a also performs various processes in addition to the processes described above. For example, when the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from each sensor, it generates information indicating that the detection signal has been received and sets it in the output buffer. For example, when the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the first start winning sensor SE1, it generates a first ball entry command indicating that the game ball has entered the first start winning port 14 and sets it in the output buffer. When the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the second start winning sensor SE2, it generates a second ball entry command indicating that the game ball has entered the second start winning port 15 and sets it in the output buffer.

In addition, when the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the first count sensor SE3, it generates a first large prize command indicating that the game ball has entered the first large prize opening 18 and sets it in the output buffer. When the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the second count sensor SE4, it generates a second large prize command indicating that the game ball has entered the second large prize opening 20 and sets it in the output buffer. When the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the specific passage sensor SE5, it generates a specific passage command indicating that the game ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 has passed through a specific area in the first passage 26a and sets it in the output buffer. When the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the gate sensor SE6, it generates a gate passage command indicating that the game ball has passed through the gate 23 and sets it in the output buffer.

Next, we will explain the various processes performed by the sub-control CPU 50a. When the sub-control CPU 50a receives a control signal from the main control CPU 41a, it executes various processes in response to the control signal.

First, the effect symbol variation process for executing the effect game will be described.
When the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a special symbol designation command and a variable pattern designation command, it controls the effect display device 12 to execute an effect game corresponding to the special game by starting the variable display of the effect symbols. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a special symbol designation command, it determines a combination of effect symbols to be derived in the effect game based on the type of special symbol designated by the input special symbol designation command.

Specifically, when a special pattern classified as a special pattern is specified, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the pattern combination for a special win based on the performance pattern. When a special pattern classified as a time-saving pattern is specified, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the pattern combination for a time-saving win based on the performance pattern. When a special pattern classified as a losing pattern is specified, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the pattern combination for a losing win based on the performance pattern.

Also, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a variation pattern designation command, it determines the effect to be executed during the execution of the effect game based on the variation pattern designated by the input variation pattern designation command. After that, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to start the variable display of the effect patterns of each pattern row. That is, the sub-control CPU 50a starts the effect game. Specifically, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to variably display three rows of effect patterns. Also, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the execution of various effects that have been determined to be executed. Next, when a predetermined timing arrives after starting the effect game, the sub-control CPU 50a temporarily stops the display of the effect patterns of each pattern row, and, upon input of the all pattern stop command, causes the effect patterns of each pattern row to be fixed and stopped. In addition, the sub-control CPU 50a may display the performance symbols of each symbol row in a fixed stop state upon the lapse of a change time set in the change pattern, regardless of the all symbol stop command. In this case, the all symbol stop command may be omitted.

Then, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the performance display device 12 to end the performance game by ending the fixed stop display of the performance pattern when the fixed stop time of the special pattern has elapsed.

Next, processing related to the game state will be described.
When the sub-control CPU 50a receives a game state command from the main control CPU 41a, it stores a value capable of identifying a game state specified from the input game state command in a sub-operation flag of the sub-control RAM 50c, and stores a value capable of identifying a condition pattern specified from the input game state command in a sub-condition pattern flag of the sub-control RAM 50c. This enables the sub-control CPU 50a to identify the current game state and the set condition pattern.

The following describes the presentation in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment.
First, the presentation mode in this embodiment will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment has a plurality of presentation modes that define various presentation aspects. The various presentation aspects include, for example, the types of presentations that can be executed, the execution probability of the presentations, the types of images displayed in the presentations, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 5, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment has five presentation modes: chance zone, normal mode, first special mode, second special mode, and blessing zone.

The chance zone is a presentation mode when the current game state is a non-time-saving state. In this embodiment, the chance zone corresponds to a non-specific presentation mode that can be controlled during a non-time-saving state. The normal mode is a presentation mode when the current game state is a first specific game state. That is, the normal mode is a presentation mode when the game state is a first time-saving state and the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state. In this embodiment, the normal mode corresponds to a first specific presentation mode that can be controlled during a time-saving state. The first special mode is a presentation mode when the current game state is a second specific game state. That is, the first special mode is a presentation mode when the game state is a second time-saving state and the second condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state. In this embodiment, the first special mode corresponds to a second specific presentation mode that can be controlled during a time-saving state. The second special mode is a presentation mode when the current game state is a third specific game state. That is, the second special mode is a presentation mode when the game is in the second time-saving state and the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state. In this embodiment, the second special mode corresponds to a third specific presentation mode that is controllable during the time-saving state. The blessing zone is a presentation mode when the current game state is the fourth specific game state. That is, the blessing zone is a presentation mode when the game is in the second time-saving state and the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state.

In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a identifies the condition pattern of the ending condition when the current game state and time-saving state are in place based on the values of the sub-operation flag and the sub-condition pattern flag stored in the sub-control RAM 50c, and controls the presentation mode according to the identified content. That is, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the presentation mode to one of multiple types of presentation modes according to the current game state. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value indicating a predetermined presentation mode in the mode flag stored in the sub-control RAM 50c. Then, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the predetermined presentation mode by executing various presentations based on the value stored in the mode flag. As a result, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a functions as a mode control means that controls the presentation mode.

In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a does not control any of the presentation modes during special win games and jackpot games. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may erase the value of the mode flag during special win games and jackpot games.

In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a right-hit notification effect that encourages the player to hit the gaming ball to the right. In this embodiment, the right-hit notification effect corresponds to a specific notification that encourages the player to launch the gaming ball into the second gaming area.

As shown in FIG. 6, in the right-hit notification effect of this embodiment, a right-hit notification image G1 that encourages the player to hit the game ball to the right is displayed on the image display unit GH of the effect display device 12. In this embodiment, the right-hit notification image G1 is an image that imitates the string of characters "Aim right →". In this embodiment, the right-hit notification effect is executed in the same manner regardless of whether the player is controlled in the first special mode, the second special mode, or the blessing zone.

As shown in FIG. 5, the right-hit notification effect of this embodiment can be executed when controlled to the first special mode, the second special mode, and the blessing zone presentation mode. On the other hand, the right-hit notification effect of this embodiment is not executed when controlled to the chance zone and normal mode presentation modes. That is, in this embodiment, the presentation display device 12 can execute the right-hit notification effect when in the second time-saving state, but does not execute the right-hit notification effect when in the non-time-saving state or the first time-saving state. The right-hit notification effect of this embodiment is also executed during special hit play and jackpot play.

Next, the transition of the game state and presentation mode when a special win is won will be described together with the control of the main control CPU 41a and the sub control CPU 50a.
First, the game state and the transition of the presentation mode when the special hit ZA is won will be described.

As shown in FIG. 7, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special win ZA during the non-time-saving state and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game ZA, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the second time-saving state after the big win game ZA ends, and sets a fourth condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins a special win ZA during the chance zone and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game ZA, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to the blessing zone after the big win game ZA ends. On the other hand, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special win ZA during the non-time-saving state and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game ZA, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the non-time-saving state even after the special win game ZA ends. Therefore, if the special win ZA is won during the chance zone and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game ZA, the sub-control CPU 50a will control the game to the chance zone even after the special win game ZA ends.

When the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state and controls to a non-time-saving state when the special symbol ZA is drawn in the special game as a trigger when the special winning ZA is won. Therefore, when the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, when the special winning ZA is won and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning game ZA, it means that the game ball has passed through a specific area during the non-time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls to a second time-saving state after the end of the big winning game ZA, and sets a fourth condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, when the special winning ZA is won during the normal mode and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning game ZA, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to a celebration zone after the end of the big winning game ZA.

On the other hand, when the first condition pattern is set as the end condition for the time-saving state, if the special win ZA is won and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game ZA, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to a non-time-saving state after the special win game ZA ends. Therefore, when the special win ZA is won during normal mode and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game ZA, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to a chance zone after the special win game ZA ends.

When the special hit ZA is won when any of the second to fourth condition patterns is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a continues the time-saving state even during the special hit game. Therefore, when the special hit ZA is won when any of the second to fourth condition patterns is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special hit game ZA, the game ball passes through a specific area during the time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls to the second time-saving state after the end of the big hit game ZA, and sets the second condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, when the special hit ZA is won during any of the presentation modes of the first special mode, the second special mode, and the blessing zone, and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special hit game ZA, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the first special mode after the end of the big hit game ZA.

On the other hand, when the main control CPU 41a wins the special win ZA when any of the second to fourth condition patterns is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game ZA, the main control CPU 41a controls the game state to be the same as when the special win was won even after the special win game ZA ends. Therefore, when the special win ZA is won during the first special mode and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game ZA, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game state to be the first special mode even after the special win game ZA ends. Similarly, when the special win ZA is won during the second special mode and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game ZA, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game state to be the second special mode even after the special win game ZA ends. Furthermore, if the special win ZA is won during the blessing zone and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game ZA, the sub-control CPU 50a will control to the blessing zone even after the special win game ZA ends.

In the figure, the situation that cannot occur in principle when the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment is played in the intended manner is shown as "irregular". Here, "a situation that cannot occur in principle when the game is played in the intended manner" corresponds to, for example, a situation in which the second special lottery is executed by hitting the game ball to the right during a non-time-saving state or a first time-saving state in which hitting to the left is recommended, and a situation in which the first special lottery is executed by hitting the game ball to the left during a second time-saving state in which hitting to the right is recommended. In addition, "a situation that cannot occur in principle when the game is played in the intended manner" corresponds to, for example, a situation in which the game ball does not pass through a specific area in the special winning games ZA, ZB, ZC, and Za in which the game ball can pass through a specific area, and a situation in which the game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning game Zb in which the game ball cannot substantially pass through the specific area.

In this way, in this embodiment, when the first time-saving state is in the first condition pattern and the result of the special lottery is a special hit ZA, and a jackpot game ZA is subsequently generated, the state is controlled to the second time-saving state after the jackpot game ZA ends, and the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery is the fourth special result in the first specific game state and a special game based on the fourth special result is subsequently generated, the state is controlled to the fourth specific game state after the special game ends.

As shown in FIG. 8, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special win ZB during the non-time-saving state and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game ZB, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the second time-saving state after the big win game ZB ends and sets a second condition pattern as the end condition for the time-saving state. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins a special win ZB during the chance zone and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game ZB, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to the first special mode after the big win game ZB ends. On the other hand, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special win ZB during the non-time-saving state and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game ZB, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the non-time-saving state even after the special win game ZB ends. Therefore, if the special win ZB is won during the chance zone and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game ZB, the sub-control CPU 50a will control the chance zone even after the special win game ZB ends.

When the special hit ZB is won when any of the first to third condition patterns is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state and controls it to a non-time-saving state when the special symbol ZB is drawn in the special game. Therefore, when the special hit ZB is won when any of the first to third condition patterns is set as the end condition of the time-saving state and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special hit game ZB, it means that the game ball has passed through a specific area during the non-time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls it to the second time-saving state after the end of the big hit game ZB, and sets the second condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, if a special win ZB is won during any of the presentation modes of the normal mode, the first special mode, or the second special mode, and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game ZB, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the first special mode after the big win game ZB ends.

On the other hand, when the special win ZB is won when any of the first to third condition patterns is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game ZB, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to a non-time-saving state after the special win game ZB ends. Therefore, when the special win ZB is won during any of the presentation modes of the normal mode, the first special mode, and the second special mode, and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game ZB, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to a chance zone after the special win game ZB ends.

When the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if the special win ZB is won, the main control CPU 41a continues the time-saving state even during the special win game. Therefore, when the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if the special win ZB is won and the game ball passes through the specific area in the special win game ZB, the game ball passes through the specific area during the time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls to the second time-saving state after the end of the big win game ZB, and sets the fourth condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, when the special win ZB is won during the celebration zone and the game ball passes through the specific area in the special win game ZB, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the celebration zone even after the end of the big win game ZB.

On the other hand, when the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if the special win ZB is won and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game ZB, the main control CPU 41a controls the game state to be the same as when the special win was won even after the special win game ZB ends. Therefore, when the special win ZB is won during the blessing zone and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game ZB, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game state to be the blessing zone even after the special win game ZB ends.

In this way, in this embodiment, when the first time-saving state is in the first time-saving state and the end condition of the time-saving state is the first condition pattern, if the result of the special lottery is a special win ZB, and a jackpot game ZB is subsequently generated, the state is controlled to the second time-saving state after the jackpot game ZB ends, and the second condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery is the first special result in the first specific game state, and a special game based on the first special result is subsequently generated, the state is controlled to the second specific game state after the special game ends.

As shown in FIG. 9, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special hit ZC during the non-time-saving state and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special hit game ZC, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to a non-time-saving state after the end of the big hit game ZC. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins a special hit ZC during the chance zone and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special hit game ZC, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to the chance zone even after the end of the big hit game ZC. Also, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special hit ZC during the non-time-saving state and the game ball does not pass through a specific area during the special hit game ZC, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to a non-time-saving state even after the end of the special hit game ZC. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins a special hit ZC during the chance zone and the game ball does not pass through a specific area during the special hit game ZC, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to the chance zone even after the end of the special hit game ZC.

When the main control CPU 41a wins a special win ZC when any of the second to fourth condition patterns is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state and controls to a non-time-saving state when the special symbol ZC is drawn in the special game. Therefore, when the special win ZC is won when any of the second to fourth condition patterns is set as the end condition of the time-saving state and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special win game ZC, the game ball passes through a specific area during the non-time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls to a non-time-saving state after the big win game ZC ends. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins a special win ZC during any of the presentation modes of the first special mode, the second special mode, and the blessing zone, and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special win game ZC, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to a chance zone after the big win game ZC ends.

In addition, when the special hit ZC is won when any of the second to fourth condition patterns is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special hit game ZC, the main control CPU 41a controls to a non-time-saving state after the special hit game ZC ends. Therefore, when the special hit ZC is won during any of the presentation modes of the first special mode, the second special mode, and the blessing zone, and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special hit game ZC, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the chance zone after the special hit game ZC ends.

When the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if the special hit ZC is won, the main control CPU 41a continues the time-saving state even during the special hit game. Therefore, when the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if the special hit ZC is won and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special hit game ZC, the game ball passes through a specific area during the time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls to the first time-saving state after the big hit game ZC ends, and sets the first condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, when the special hit ZC is won during the normal mode and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special hit game ZC, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the normal mode even after the big hit game ZC ends.

In addition, when the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if a special win ZC is won and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game ZC, the main control CPU 41a controls the game state to be the same as when the special win was won even after the special win game ZC ends. Therefore, if a special win ZC is won during normal mode and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game ZC, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game state to be normal mode even after the special win game ZC ends.

In addition, when the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if a special hit ZC is won and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special hit game ZC, the time-saving state will be ended once with the start of the jackpot game ZC as a trigger. For this reason, when a special hit ZC is won and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special hit game ZC when the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a initializes the value stored in a predetermined counter in the main control RAM 41c at the start of the jackpot game ZC. Therefore, in this case, the number-ending condition is established when the first operation number of special games is executed from the time when the time-saving state is again controlled after the end of the jackpot game ZC. That is, in this embodiment, if a special win ZC is won in the first time-saving state, and control is exercised to the first time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game ZC, control is exercised to the non-time-saving state when the special game is executed the first number of times since control was exercised to the first time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game ZC.

In this way, in this embodiment, if the result of a special lottery is a special win ZC in the non-time-saving state, and a jackpot game ZC is subsequently generated, the system will be controlled to the non-time-saving state after the jackpot game ZC ends. In other words, in this embodiment, if the result of a special lottery is a specific special result in the non-special game state, and a special game based on the specific special result is generated, the system will be controlled to the non-special game state even after the special game ends.

In addition, in this embodiment, if the result of a special lottery is a special win ZC while in the first time-saving state, and a jackpot game ZC is subsequently generated, control is provided to the first time-saving state after the jackpot game ZC ends. In other words, in this embodiment, if the result of a special lottery is a specific special result while in the first special game state, and a special game based on the specific special result is generated, control is provided to the first special game state after the special game ends.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery during the second time-saving state is a special win ZC and a big win game ZC is subsequently generated, the state is controlled to a non-time-saving state after the big win game ZC ends. That is, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery during the second special game state is a specific special result and a special game based on the specific special result is generated, the state is controlled to a non-special game state after the special game ends.

As shown in FIG. 10, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special win Za during the non-time-saving state and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the second time-saving state after the big win game Za ends and sets a second condition pattern as the end condition for the time-saving state. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins a special win Za during the chance zone and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to the first special mode after the big win game Za ends. Also, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special win Za during the non-time-saving state and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game Za, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the non-time-saving state even after the special win game Za ends. Therefore, if a special win Za is won during the chance zone and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game Za, the sub-control CPU 50a will control the game to the chance zone even after the special win game Za ends.

When the first, second, or fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state and controls to a non-time-saving state when the special symbol Za is drawn in the special game, triggering the special winning Za to be ended. Therefore, when the first, second, or fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, when the special winning Za is won and the game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning game Za, it means that the game ball has passed through a specific area during the non-time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls to the second time-saving state after the big winning game Za ends, and sets the second condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, if a special win Za is won during any of the presentation modes of normal mode, first special mode, or celebration zone, and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the first special mode after the big win game Za ends.

In addition, when the special win Za is won when the first condition pattern, the second condition pattern, or the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game Za, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to a non-time-saving state after the special win game Za ends. Therefore, when the special win Za is won during any of the normal mode, first special mode, and blessing zone presentation modes, and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game Za, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to a chance zone after the special win game Za ends.

When the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if the special win Za is won, the main control CPU 41a continues the time-saving state even during the special win game. Therefore, when the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if the special win Za is won and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za, it means that the game ball has passed through a specific area during the time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls to the second time-saving state after the big win game Za ends, and sets the third condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, when the special win Za is won during the second special mode and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the second special mode even after the big win game Za ends.

In addition, when the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if the special win Za is won and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game Za, the main control CPU 41a controls the game state to be the same as when the special win was won even after the special win game Za ends. Therefore, when the special win Za is won during the second special mode and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game Za, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game state to be the second special mode even after the special win game Za ends.

When the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if a special win Za is won and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za, the time-saving state will be ended once with the start of the jackpot game Za as a trigger. For this reason, when a special win Za is won and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za when the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a initializes the value stored in a predetermined counter in the main control RAM 41c at the start of the jackpot game Za. Therefore, in this case, the number-ending condition is established when the special game is executed the second number of times from the time when the time-saving state is again controlled after the end of the jackpot game Za.

In this way, in this embodiment, when the game is in the second time-saving state and the end condition of the time-saving state is the second condition pattern, if the result of the special lottery is a special win Za, and a jackpot game Za is subsequently generated, the game is controlled to the second time-saving state after the jackpot game Za ends, and the second condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery is the second special result in the second specific game state, and a special game based on the second special result is subsequently generated, the game is controlled to the second specific game state after the special game ends.

In addition, in this embodiment, when the game is in the second time-saving state and the end condition of the time-saving state is the third condition pattern, if the result of the special lottery is a special win Za, and a jackpot game Za is subsequently generated, the game is controlled to the second time-saving state after the jackpot game Za ends, and the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery is the second special result in the third specific game state, and a special game based on the second special result is subsequently generated, the game is controlled to the third specific game state after the special game ends.

As shown in FIG. 11, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special win Zb during the non-time-saving state and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Zb, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the non-time-saving state after the end of the big win game Zb. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins a special win Zb during the chance zone and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Zb, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to the chance zone even after the end of the big win game Zb. Also, when the main control CPU 41a wins a special win Zb during the non-time-saving state and the game ball does not pass through a specific area during the special win game Zb, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the non-time-saving state even after the end of the special win game Zb. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins a special win Zb during the chance zone and the game ball does not pass through a specific area during the special win game Zb, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to the chance zone even after the end of the special win game Zb.

When the second condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state and controls to a non-time-saving state when the special symbol Zb is derived in the special game. Therefore, when the second condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, when the special win Zb is won and the game ball passes through the specific area in the special win game Zb, the game ball passes through the specific area during the non-time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls to a non-time-saving state after the big win game Zb ends. Therefore, when the special win Zb is won during the first special mode and the game ball passes through the specific area in the special win game Zb, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to a chance zone after the big win game Zb ends.

In addition, when the second condition pattern is set as the end condition for the time-saving state, if the special win Zb is won and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game Zb, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to a non-time-saving state after the special win game Zb ends. Therefore, when the special win Zb is won during the first special mode and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game Zb, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to a chance zone after the special win game Zb ends.

When the first condition pattern, the third condition pattern, or the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, and the special win Zb is won, the main control CPU 41a continues the time-saving state even during the special win game. Therefore, when the first condition pattern, the third condition pattern, or the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, and the special win Zb is won, and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Zb, the game ball passes through a specific area during the time-saving state. Therefore, in this case, the main control CPU 41a controls to a non-time-saving state after the big win game Zb ends. Therefore, when the special win Zb is won during each of the normal mode, the second special mode, and the blessing zone performance modes, and the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Zb, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to the chance zone after the big win game Zb ends.

In addition, when the first condition pattern, the third condition pattern, or the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, if the special win Zb is won and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game Zb, the main control CPU 41a controls the game state to be the same as when the special win is won even after the special win game Zb ends. Therefore, when the special win Zb is won during the normal mode and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game Zb, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game state to be normal mode even after the special win game Zb ends. Similarly, when the special win Zb is won during the second special mode and the game ball does not pass through the specific area in the special win game Zb, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game state to be the second special mode even after the special win game Zb ends. Furthermore, if a special win Zb is won during the blessing zone and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game Zb, the sub-control CPU 50a will control the game to the blessing zone even after the special win game Zb ends.

As described above, according to the transition modes of the game states shown in Figures 7 to 11, if the result of the special lottery in the first time-saving state is a special win, and the game is controlled to the second time-saving state after the big win game based on the special win ends, the second condition pattern may be set as the end condition of the time-saving state, but the third condition pattern is not set. In other words, in this embodiment, if the result of the special lottery in the first specific game state is a special result, and then a special game based on the special result occurs, the game may be controlled to the second specific game state after the special game ends, but the game is not controlled to the third specific game state after the special game ends.

Here, a specific example of control regarding the game state when a special win is won will be described.
In the example of FIG. 12, a control will be described when a special win Za is won during the second specific game state and the game ball passes through a specific area in a special win game Za based on the special win Za.

In this example, since the current game state is the second specific game state, it is controlled to the first special mode (time t0). Then, when the main control CPU 41a causes the special symbol Za to be derived in the special game, the special winning game Za is generated after the special game ends (time t1). At this time, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state and controls to a non-time-saving state when the special symbol Za is derived. After that, when the main control CPU 41a inputs a detection signal indicating that the game ball has passed through the specific area in the special winning game Za from the specific passing sensor SE5 (time t2), the main control CPU 41a generates the big winning game Za after the special winning game Za ends (time t3). Here, the game state when the game ball passes through the specific area in the special winning game Za is a non-time-saving state. Therefore, in this example, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the second time-saving state after the big win game Za ends, and sets the second condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state (time t4). Therefore, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to the first special mode after the big win game Za ends.

In this way, in this embodiment, when a special win Za is won in a special lottery during the second specific game state and a jackpot game Za is subsequently generated, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state between the execution of the special lottery and the generation of the jackpot game Za. According to this, since the game state at the time of the jackpot becomes a non-time-saving state, after the jackpot game Za ends, the game is controlled to the second time-saving state, and the second condition pattern is set as the end condition for the time-saving state. That is, in this case, the game is controlled to the second specific game state even after the jackpot game Za ends.

In the example of FIG. 13, a control when the special win Za is won during the third specific game state and the game ball passes through the specific area in the special win game Za will be described.
In this example, since the current game state is the third specific game state, it is controlled to the second special mode (time t10). Then, when the main control CPU 41a causes the special symbol Za to be derived in the special game, the special winning game Za is generated after the special game ends (time t11). At this time, the main control CPU 41a does not end the time-saving state when the special symbol Za is derived. After that, when the main control CPU 41a inputs a detection signal indicating that the game ball has passed through the specific area in the special winning game Za from the specific passing sensor SE5 (time t12), the main control CPU 41a generates the big winning game Za after the special winning game Za ends (time t13). Here, the game state when the game ball passes through the specific area in the special winning game Za is the time-saving state. Therefore, in this example, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to the second time-saving state after the big win game Za ends, and sets the third condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state (time t14). Therefore, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the game to the second special mode after the big win game Za ends.

In this way, in this embodiment, when a special win Za is won in a special lottery during the third specific game state and a jackpot game Za is subsequently generated, the main control CPU 41a does not end the time-saving state between the execution of the special lottery and the generation of the jackpot game Za. According to this, since the game state at the time of the jackpot becomes the time-saving state, after the jackpot game Za ends, the game is controlled to the second time-saving state, and the third condition pattern is set as the end condition for the time-saving state. In other words, in this case, the game is controlled to the third specific game state even after the jackpot game Za ends.

Next, the transition of the game state and presentation mode when the time-saving prize is won will be described together with the control of the main control CPU 41a and the sub control CPU 50a.
When the main control CPU 41a wins the time-saving hit ZX during the non-time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a controls the state to the second time-saving state after the special game in which the time-saving symbol ZX is derived ends, and sets the third condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins the time-saving hit ZX during the chance zone, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the state to the second special mode after the special game in which the time-saving symbol ZX is derived ends. Thus, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery during the non-time-saving state is the time-saving hit ZX, the state is controlled to the second time-saving state without the special hit game and the big win game being generated, and the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state. That is, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery during the non-specific game state is the second specific result, it can be said that the state is controlled to the third specific game state without the special game being generated, and when the result of the special lottery during the non-specific game state is the second specific result, it can be said that the state is controlled to the second special game state without the special game being generated.

In addition, when the main control CPU 41a wins the time-saving hit ZY during the non-time-saving state, it controls to the first time-saving state after the end of the special game in which the time-saving pattern ZY is derived, and sets the first condition pattern as the end condition of the time-saving state. Therefore, when the sub-control CPU 50a wins the time-saving hit ZY during the chance zone, it controls to the normal mode after the end of the special game in which the time-saving pattern ZY is derived. As a result, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery during the non-time-saving state is the time-saving hit ZY, it is controlled to the first time-saving state without the special hit game and the big hit game being generated, and the first condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state. That is, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery becomes the first specific result in the non-specific game state, it can be said that the special game is controlled to the first specific game state without the generation of the special game, and when the result of the special lottery becomes the first specific result in the non-special game state, it can be said that the special game is controlled to the first special game state without the generation of the special game.

Here, the transition of the presentation mode in this embodiment will be described.
As shown in FIG. 14, in this embodiment, when a special win ZA is won in the normal mode and a big win game ZA is generated, the zone shifts to the blessing zone after the big win game ZA ends. Also, in this embodiment, when a special win ZA is won in the chance zone and a big win game ZA is generated, the zone shifts to the blessing zone after the big win game ZA ends. That is, in this embodiment, even if a special win ZA is won in either the normal mode or the chance zone and a big win game ZA is generated, the zone shifts to the blessing zone after the big win game ZA ends.

In this embodiment, if a special win ZB is won in normal mode and a jackpot game ZB is generated, control is performed to the first special mode after the jackpot game ZB ends. Also, in this embodiment, if a special win ZB is won in the chance zone and a jackpot game ZB is generated, a transition to the first special mode occurs after the jackpot game ZB ends. In other words, in this embodiment, regardless of whether a special win ZB is won in normal mode or chance zone and a jackpot game ZB is generated, a transition to the first special mode occurs after the jackpot game ZB ends.

In this embodiment, if a special win ZC is won in normal mode and a jackpot game ZC is generated, control remains in normal mode even after the jackpot game ZC ends. Also, in this embodiment, if a special win ZC is won in the chance zone and a jackpot game ZC is generated, control remains in the chance zone even after the jackpot game ZC ends. That is, in this embodiment, regardless of whether a special win ZC is won in normal mode or chance zone, and a jackpot game ZC is generated by winning a special win ZC, the presentation mode in which the special win ZC was won continues after the jackpot game ZC ends.

In this embodiment, if a time-saving hit ZX is won in the chance zone, control is performed to the second special mode. Also, in this embodiment, if a time-saving hit ZY is won in the chance zone, control is performed to the normal mode. That is, in this embodiment, when the result of a special lottery during the chance zone is a time-saving hit, control can be performed to either the normal mode or the second special mode. In this way, in this embodiment, the presentation mode to which the transition is made differs depending on the type of time-saving hit won in the chance zone.

As described above, in this embodiment, of the 100 types of first special symbols classified as time-saving symbols, 20 types of special symbols are classified as time-saving symbols ZX, and 80 types of special symbols are classified as time-saving symbols ZY. Therefore, in this embodiment, if the result of the special lottery during the chance zone is a time-saving hit, the probability of being controlled to normal mode is higher than the probability of being controlled to the second special mode. In other words, in this embodiment, if the second state control is performed during the non-specific presentation mode, the probability of being controlled to the first specific presentation mode is higher than the probability of being controlled to the third specific presentation mode.

In this embodiment, if a special win Za is won in the first special mode and a jackpot game Za is generated, the first special mode is maintained even after the jackpot game Za ends. Also, in this embodiment, if a special win Za is won in the second special mode and a jackpot game Za is generated, the second special mode is maintained even after the jackpot game Za ends. In other words, in this embodiment, regardless of whether a special win Za is won in the first special mode or the second special mode and a jackpot game Za is generated by winning the special win Za, the presentation mode in which the special win Za was won continues after the jackpot game Za ends.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, when a special win Za is won in the celebration zone and a jackpot game Za is generated, control is performed to the first special mode after the jackpot game Za ends. That is, in this embodiment, when a special win Za is won in the celebration zone and a jackpot game Za is generated, unlike when a special win Za is won in the first special mode or the second special mode and a jackpot game Za is generated, after the jackpot game Za ends, a presentation mode different from the presentation mode when the special win Za is won is performed.

In this embodiment, in the first special mode, a transition to the chance zone occurs when a special hit Zb is won. On the other hand, in the second special mode, a transition to the chance zone occurs when a special game is executed the second number of times after being controlled to the time-saving state (indicated in the figure as the condition for ending the number of times being met). That is, in this embodiment, the transition condition for transitioning from the first special mode to the chance zone is different from the transition condition for transitioning from the second special mode to the chance zone. In other words, in this embodiment, the conditions for ending the presentation mode are different between the first special mode and the second special mode.

In addition, in this embodiment, in normal mode, the special game is executed the first number of times after being controlled to the time-saving state (indicated in the figure as the number of times end condition being met), which triggers a transition to the chance zone. In other words, in this embodiment, the number of times of operation when transitioning from the first special mode to the chance zone and the number of times of operation when transitioning from the normal mode to the chance zone are different, triggered by the number of times end condition being met.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, regardless of whether the presentation mode is the chance zone, normal mode, first special mode, second special mode, or blessing zone, when the RAM clear process is performed, the game will transition to the chance zone.

In this way, in this embodiment, when a special win ZB is won during normal mode and a jackpot game ZB based on the special win ZB is generated, control is made to the first special mode after the jackpot game ZB ends. In other words, in this embodiment, if the first state control is made in response to the result of a special lottery becoming the first special result during the first specific presentation mode, control is made to the second specific presentation mode.

In addition, in this embodiment, when a special win Za is won during the first special mode and a big win game Za based on the special win Za is generated, the game is controlled to the first special mode after the big win game Za ends. That is, in this embodiment, when the result of the special lottery during the second specific performance mode is the second
When the first state control is performed as a result of a special result being obtained, it can be said that the control is switched to the second specific presentation mode.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, when a special win Za is won during the second special mode and a jackpot game Za based on the special win Za is generated, control is made to the second special mode after the jackpot game Za ends. In other words, in this embodiment, if the first state control is made in response to the result of a special lottery being the second special result during the third specific presentation mode, it can be said that control is made to the third specific presentation mode.

In addition, in this embodiment, when controlled to the blessing zone, in principle, the game will not transition to another presentation mode unless a jackpot game Za occurs. For this reason, in this embodiment, the blessing zone can be understood as a presentation mode in which the jackpot game Za is guaranteed to occur. In other words, in this embodiment, the fourth specific game state when controlled to the blessing zone is a game state that will not end in principle unless a jackpot game Za occurs, and can be understood as a game state in which the jackpot game Za is guaranteed to occur.

Next, an example of a presentation executed in each presentation mode will be described along with the control by the sub-control CPU 50a.
The sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a background image corresponding to each effect mode. In this embodiment, the background image is an image that can identify the current effect mode. Specifically, the background image in this embodiment is an image that includes a character string indicating the name of the effect mode.

In addition, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the performance display device 12 to execute different performances depending on the current performance mode.
As an example, when the sub-control CPU 50a is controlled to the first special mode or the second special mode, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the performance display device 12 to execute an end notification performance that notifies the player of the conditions for ending the current performance mode. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU 50a is controlled to the first special mode, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the performance display device 12 to display, as the end notification performance, a first end notification image that notifies the player that the first special mode will end upon winning the special win Zb. The first end notification image is, for example, an image that imitates the string of characters "Winning the special win Zb ends the first special mode!?"

When the sub-control CPU 50a is controlled to the second special mode, it controls the effect display device 12 to display, as an end notification effect, a second end notification image that notifies the player that the second special mode will end when the second number of special games have been played. The second end notification image is, for example, an image that indicates the number of remaining games until the number of special games played in the second special mode reaches the second number of play. Specifically, in this embodiment, the second end notification image is an image that imitates the string of characters "○ times remaining."

When the sub-control CPU 50a is controlled to the blessing zone, it controls the effect display device 12 to execute a definite notification effect that definitively notifies that a jackpot game Za will occur. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU 50a is controlled to the blessing zone, it controls the effect display device 12 to display, as a definite notification effect, a definite notification image that definitively notifies that a jackpot game Za will occur. The definite notification image is, for example, an image that imitates the string of characters "Jackpot confirmed!".

When controlled to the chance zone, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute a time-saving chance effect that notifies the player that a win in the time-saving hit is possible. Specifically, when controlled to the chance zone, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display, as a time-saving chance effect, a time-saving chance image that notifies the player that a win in the time-saving hit is possible. The time-saving chance image is, for example, an image imitating the character string "Chance to win in the time-saving hit!"

The effects of this embodiment will be described.
(1) In the second specific game state, the first special mode may be controlled when the big win game ends. On the other hand, in the third specific game state, the second special mode may be controlled when the time-saving win is won. This allows control to be made to different game states when the big win control condition is met and when the time-saving win control condition is met, diversifying the gameplay and making the game more enjoyable.

(2) Whether in the second specific game state or the third specific game state, if a special win Za is won and a jackpot game Za occurs, after the jackpot game Za ends, the game state will be controlled to the same state as when the special win Za was won. Therefore, after being controlled to the second specific game state or the third specific game state, the specific game state can be enjoyed for a long time.

(3) Since the condition patterns for the end conditions of the time-saving state are different between the second specific game state and the third specific game state, the game can be enjoyed with different gameplay characteristics when controlled to the second specific game state and when controlled to the third specific game state.

(4) In principle, the fourth specific game state will not end unless the special win Za is won and a big win game Za occurs. Therefore, when the game is controlled to the fourth specific game state, it is possible to increase the interest of the player who is hoping that a big win game Za will occur.

(5) When a special win Za is won in the second or third specific game state, causing a jackpot game Za, the main control CPU 41a only needs to be able to identify the game state when the game ball passes through the specific area in the special win game Za when controlling the game to the same game state as when the special win Za was won after the jackpot game Za ends. This simplifies the control because the main control CPU 41a does not need to identify the game state when the special win Za was won.

(6) In each game state, whether or not the right-hit notification effect is executed varies. This makes it possible to appropriately prompt the launch of the game ball in each game state.
(7) In this embodiment, the time-saving win is not won during the time-saving state. This limits the chance of being controlled to the third specific game state when the time-saving win control condition is met, thereby improving the player's interest when being controlled to the third specific game state.

(8) In this embodiment, if a special win occurs during the first specific game state and a jackpot game based on the special win occurs, the player may be controlled to the second specific game state after the jackpot game ends, but will not be controlled to the third specific game state. This limits the chance of being controlled to the third specific game state in response to the establishment of the jackpot control condition, thereby increasing the player's interest when controlled to the third specific game state.

(9) When the first special lottery is executed during the non-time-saving state, the result of the first special lottery will be either a special win or a time-saving win. This makes it possible to shorten the period during which the game is controlled to the non-time-saving state, thereby increasing the interest of players who are looking forward to being controlled to the time-saving state.

(10) In this embodiment, even if a special win is not won in the non-time-shortening state, when a time-shortening win ZX is won, the game is controlled to the second time-shortening state. This allows a player who wants to play in the second time-shortening state to enjoy the game by expecting to win the time-shortening win ZX even if a special win is not won in the non-time-shortening state.

(11) In this embodiment, even if the time-saving win ZY is won in the non-time-saving state and the game is controlled to the first time-saving state, if a special game is subsequently played for the first number of times without a jackpot being awarded, the game is controlled to the non-time-saving state again. This makes it possible to prevent a decrease in the player's interest in being controlled to the second time-saving state, even if the time-saving win ZY is won in the date and time-saving state.

(12) In this embodiment, even if a special win ZC is won in the first time-saving state and a jackpot game ZC occurs, control is again performed to the first time-saving state after the jackpot game ZC ends. In this way, when controlled to the first time-saving state, the player is not only made to wait for the special game of the first number of operations to be executed, but can also be made to pay attention to whether or not the special win ZC is won, allowing the player to enjoy the game.

(13) In particular, in this embodiment, if a special win ZC is won in the first time-shortened state, causing a jackpot game ZC, and the game is controlled back to the first time-shortened state after the jackpot game ZC ends, the game is controlled back to the non-time-shortened state when the special game is executed the first number of times after the jackpot game ZC ends and the game is controlled to the first time-shortened state. This allows players who expect a transition from the first time-shortened state to the non-time-shortened state to pay more attention to whether or not they will win the special win ZC, allowing them to enjoy the game.

(14) Even if a special win ZC is won during the second time-saving state and a jackpot game ZC occurs, the state is controlled to a non-time-saving state after the jackpot game ZC ends, so that it is possible to expect that a time-saving win ZX will be won in the non-time-saving state and the state will be controlled to the second time-saving state again.

(15) In this embodiment, even if a special win ZC is won in a non-time-shortened state and a jackpot game ZC is generated, control is again performed to the non-time-shortened state after the jackpot game ZC ends. In this way, even if a special win ZC is won in a non-time-shortened state and a jackpot game ZC is generated, it can be expected that a time-shortened win ZX will be won thereafter and control will be performed to the second time-shortened state.

This embodiment can be modified and implemented as follows.
The present embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

- For each condition pattern, whether or not to set a count end condition and the number of times the count end condition is activated may be changed as appropriate. In this case, a condition pattern in which the count end condition is not actually met may be created by setting the number of times the count end condition is activated an extremely large number of times (for example, 10,000 times).

- In each condition pattern, the type of special win and the upper limit of the number of wins that are the subject of the special win termination condition may be changed as appropriate. In this case, a condition pattern in which the special win termination condition is not actually met for a specified special win may be created by setting the upper limit of the number of wins for a specified special win in the special win termination condition to an extremely large number (for example, 1000 times) or to a number equal to or greater than the number of activations in the count termination condition. Also, a condition pattern in which no special win termination condition is set may be created.

- The number and type of time-saving hits may be changed as appropriate. For example, there may be time-saving hits controlled in the second specific game state, or time-saving hits controlled in the fourth specific game state.

- The probability of winning each time-saving bonus may be changed as appropriate. For example, the probability of winning a time-saving bonus ZX may be higher than the probability of winning a time-saving bonus ZY, or they may be the same probability.

- The time-saving win may be made possible to be won even when not in a non-time-saving state. For example, the time-saving win may be made possible to be won during a first time-saving state, or during a second time-saving state. In this case, when a time-saving win is won, the time-saving state may be controlled to a time-saving state based on the time-saving win after the end condition of the current time-saving state is met, or the time-saving state may be controlled to a time-saving state based on the time-saving win instead of the current time-saving state at the time when the time-saving win is won.

- The time-saving win may be made possible to win in the second special lottery. In this case, it may be possible to make it impossible to win the time-saving win in the first special lottery, or to make it possible to win the time-saving win in both the first and second special lotteries.

- The main control CPU 41a may determine the game state after the end of the jackpot game based on the special win, based on the game state when the special win is won. In particular, when a special win is won during the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a may set a condition pattern for the end condition of the time-saving state when controlling to the time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game based on the special win, based on the condition pattern set as the end condition of the time-saving state.

- The number and type of special wins may be changed as appropriate. For example, for each special win, the type of time-saving state that is controlled after the end of the jackpot game based on that special win may be changed, or the condition pattern of the time-saving state termination condition that is set when the time-saving state is controlled may be changed.

- The number and types of condition patterns for the termination conditions of the time-saving state may be changed as appropriate. For example, only one type of condition pattern may be provided as the condition pattern for the termination conditions of the time-saving state when controlled to the second time-saving state. In this case, when controlled to the second time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a may set the same condition pattern as the condition pattern for the termination conditions of the time-saving state regardless of whether the jackpot control condition or the time-saving hit control condition is established. Also, for example, two or more types of condition patterns may be provided as the condition pattern for the termination conditions of the time-saving state when controlled to the first time-saving state. In this case, the main control CPU 41a may set different condition patterns when the jackpot control condition is established and when the time-saving hit control condition is established. In this case, the main control CPU 41a may vary the condition pattern set depending on the type of special win when the jackpot control condition is met or the game state when the game ball passes through a specific area in a special win game, or may vary the condition pattern set depending on the type of time-saving win when the time-saving win end condition is met.

A condition pattern of the termination condition that can be set in the first time-saving state may have a plurality of types of condition patterns with different activation times in the count termination condition. Similarly, a condition pattern of the termination condition that can be set in the second time-saving state may have a plurality of types of condition patterns with different activation times in the count termination condition. In this case, the number of special games executed from when the time-saving state is controlled to the time-saving state until the time-saving state ends when the count termination condition is satisfied varies depending on the set condition pattern, so that the timing at which the time-saving state ends can be diversified to make the game more enjoyable.

- The condition for transitioning from the non-time-shortened state or the first specific game state to the second specific game state may be interchanged with the condition for transitioning from the non-time-shortened state or the first specific game state to the third specific game state. In this case, when a jackpot game ZB occurs and the game state at the time of the jackpot is a non-time-shortened state, the main control CPU 41a may control to the second time-shortened state and set the third condition pattern as the end condition of the time-shortened state. On the other hand, when a time-shortened hit ZX is won, the main control CPU 41a may control to the second time-shortened state and set the second condition pattern as the end condition of the time-shortened state.

- If a special win Za is won during the fourth specific game state and a jackpot game Za occurs, the game may be controlled to the third specific game state after the jackpot game Za ends. In this case, when the fourth condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state, the main control CPU 41a may control so that the special win end condition is not established when the special win Za is won. According to this, since the time-saving state does not end when the special win Za is won during the fourth specific game state, the game state when the game ball passes through the specific area in the special win game Za becomes the time-saving state. Therefore, in this example, if a special win Za is won during the fourth specific game state and a jackpot game Za occurs, the game is controlled to the second time-saving state after the jackpot game Za ends and the third condition pattern is set as the end condition of the time-saving state.

- In the first special lottery during the non-time-saving state, it is possible that neither the special prize nor the time-saving prize will be won.
The random number used to determine whether or not a special win has been won and the random number used to determine whether or not a time-saving win has been won may be different random numbers.

The main control CPU 41a may determine whether or not a special win has been won and whether or not a time-saving win has been won in a single win determination. For example, the main control CPU 41a may determine a special win if the acquired random number value matches a special win determination value among win determination values that include both a special win determination value and a time-saving win determination value, and may determine a time-saving win if the acquired random number value matches a time-saving win determination value, but may determine a miss if the acquired random number does not match either.

- The presentation style of the right-hit notification effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, the right-hit notification effect may be executed in a different presentation style depending on the current game state. Also, the right-hit notification effect may be executed in a different presentation style when a special game is being played and when a winning game is being played. Furthermore, the right-hit notification effect may be executed in a different presentation style when a special winning game is being played and when a big winning game is being played.

- It may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute a right-hit notification effect. It may also be embodied in a gaming machine that executes a right-hit notification under the control of the main control CPU 41a instead of or in addition to a right-hit notification effect. As a right-hit notification under the control of the main control CPU 41a, for example, a notification by the information display device 13 may be adopted.

- The number and types of presentation modes may be changed as appropriate. For example, multiple presentation modes may be provided as controllable presentation modes when a specific game state is in effect. Also, the same presentation mode may be controllable for different game states.

Depending on the type of the end condition of the time-saving state that has been established, the presentation mode when the time-saving state is controlled to the non-time-saving state after the time-saving state has ended may be different. For example, the sub-control CPU 50a may control to a different presentation mode when the time-saving state is controlled to the non-time-saving state triggered by the establishment of any of the end conditions of the number of times end condition, the jackpot end condition, and the special win end condition, and when the time-saving state is controlled to the non-time-saving state triggered by the establishment of the initialization end condition. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may control to the same presentation mode as when the first time-saving state is controlled when the initialization end condition is established. According to this, it is possible to suppress the current presentation mode from guessing whether the RAM clear process was performed when the power was turned on to the pachinko game machine 10, so that even when the first time-saving state in which the time-saving win is not won is controlled, the player can play the game by expecting that the non-time-saving state in which the time-saving win can be won is controlled.

- The type of the presentation executed in each presentation mode may be changed as appropriate. For example, when the sub-control CPU 50a is controlled to the first special mode or the second special mode, instead of or in addition to the end notification presentation that notifies the conditions for the current presentation mode to end, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the presentation display device 12 to execute a continuation notification presentation that notifies the conditions for the current presentation mode to continue. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU 50a is controlled to the first special mode, the sub-control CPU 50a may display, as the continuation notification presentation, a first continuation notification image that notifies the first special mode that the special win Za is won before the special win Zb is won. Also, when the sub-control CPU 50a is controlled to the second special mode, the sub-control CPU 50a may display, as the continuation notification presentation, a second continuation notification image that notifies the second special mode that the special win Za is won before the special game of the second operation number is executed.

- The present invention may be embodied in a pachinko game machine in which a jackpot game is triggered by winning a jackpot in a special lottery. In this case, the main control CPU 41a may control the game state controlled after the end of the jackpot game to be different or the same depending on whether the jackpot game is triggered by winning a jackpot in a special lottery or the jackpot game is triggered by the establishment of a special condition in a special win game.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine having three or more types of time-saving states.
The sub-control board 50 may be a sub-integrated control board, and a display control board that specializes in controlling the performance display device 12, a sound control board that specializes in controlling the speaker SP, and a lamp control board that specializes in controlling the decorative lamps LA may be provided separately from the sub-control board 50. Also, some or all of the display control board, sound control board, and lamp control board may be the same board. Also, the sub-control CPU 50a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

- The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be equipped with a single control board that integrates the functions of the main control board 40 and the sub-control board 50. The functions of the main control board 40 may also be realized by dividing them into multiple boards. The main control CPU 41a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

The present invention may be applied to a pachinko gaming machine that does not execute a special game. In this case, it is preferable that the special symbol is displayed on the effect display device 12.
The technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described.

(Note 1) In a gaming machine in which, when a special drawing results in a special result, a special game based on the special result can be generated thereafter, the gaming machine is provided with a state control means for controlling a game state, a storage means for storing game state information capable of identifying a current game state, and an initialization control means capable of controlling the initialization of the information stored in the storage means, the game state being a special game state and a non-special game state, the state control means being capable of controlling the game state to the special game state when the special drawing results in a specific result different from the special result, and controlling the game state to the non-special game state when the game state information is initialized by the initialization control means, the special game state being a first special game state, a special game state and a second special game state, the special results include a first special result and a second special result, and when the result of the special lottery in the non-special game state is the first special result, the special game is not generated and the game is controlled to the first special game state, while when the result of the special lottery in the non-special game state is the second special result, the special game is not generated and the game is controlled to the second special game state, and in the non-special game state, the probability that the result of the special lottery will be the first special result is higher than the probability that the result of the special lottery will be the second special result, and when controlled to the first special game state, the game is controlled to the non-special game state when a maximum number of special games have been played since being controlled to the first special game state.

(Appendix 2) The special results include a specific special result, and when the result of the special lottery in the first special game state is the specific special result, and the special game based on the specific special result is generated, the gaming machine described in appendix 1 is controlled to the first special game state even after the special game ends.

(Appendix 3) The gaming machine described in Appendix 2 is configured such that, in the first special game state, if the result of the special lottery is the specific special result, and when the game is controlled to the first special game state after the special game based on the specific special result ends, the game machine is controlled to the non-special game state when the maximum number of special games has been played since the game was controlled to the first special game state after the special game ends.

(Appendix 4) The special results include a specific special result, and when the result of the special lottery in the second special game state is the specific special result, and the special game based on the specific special result is generated, the gaming machine described in any one of Appendices 1 to 3 is controlled to the non-special game state after the special game ends.

(Appendix 5) A gaming machine according to any one of appendices 1 to 4, comprising a gaming board in which a gaming area is formed in which gaming balls can flow down, and a notification means capable of issuing various notifications, the gaming area including a first gaming area and a second gaming area that is at least partially different from the first gaming area, the notification means being capable of issuing a specific notification to encourage the launch of gaming balls into the second gaming area when in the second special gaming state, but not issuing the specific notification when in the non-special gaming state or when in the first special gaming state.

(Appendix 6) A gaming machine as described in any one of appendices 1 to 5, in which the result of the special lottery may be the specific result in the non-special game state, but the result of the special lottery is not the specific result in the special game state.

(Appendix 7) A gaming machine as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 6, in which the result of the special lottery in the non-special game state is either the special result or the specific result.

CL...center line CS...RAM clear switch G1...right hit notification image GH...image display section HD...launch handle LA...decorative lamp R1...first path R1a...left side area R2...second path R2a...right side area SE1...first start winning sensor SE2...second start winning sensor SE3...first count sensor SE4...second count sensor SE5...specific passing sensor SE6...gate sensor SL1...first solenoid SL2...second solenoid SL3...third solenoid SL4...fourth solenoid SP...speaker W...center frame YB...game board YBa...game area YBb...opening window 10...pachinko game machine 12...effect display device (notification means) 13...information display device 13a...first special symbol display section 13b...Second special pattern display section 13c...First special hold display section 13d...Second special hold display section 13e...Normal pattern display section 13f...Normal hold display section 14...First start ball entry port 15...Second start ball entry port 16...Normal opening and closing piece 18...First large prize entry port 19...First special opening and closing piece 20...Second large prize entry port 21...Second special opening and closing piece 23...Gate 23a...Gate port 26...Passage 26a...First passage 26b...Second passage 27...Branch section 28...Distribution shutter 40...Main control board 41...Microprocessor 41a...Main control CPU (state control means, initialization control means) 41b...Main control ROM 41c...Main control RAM (storage means) 50...Sub-control board 50a...Sub-control CPU (mode control means) 50b...Sub-control ROM 50c...Sub-control RAM

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine in which, when a special result is obtained as a result of a special lottery, a special game based on the special result is generated thereafter,
A state control means for controlling a game state;
A storage means for storing game status information capable of identifying a current game status;
An initialization control means capable of controlling initialization of the information stored in the storage means,
The game state includes a special game state and a non-special game state,
The state control means includes:
A control for controlling the special game state in response to the end of the special game;
A control for controlling the game into the special game state when the result of the special lottery becomes a specific result different from the special result;
The initialization control means is capable of controlling the game state information to be initialized to the non-special game state.
The special game state includes a first special game state and a second special game state,
The identification results include a first identification result and a second identification result,
When the result of the special lottery in the non-special game state becomes the first specific result, the special game is not generated and the state is controlled to the first special game state ;
When the result of the special lottery in the non-special game state becomes the second specific result, the special game is not generated and the game is controlled to the second special game state;
In the non-special game state, a probability that the result of the special lottery becomes the first specific result is different from a probability that the result of the special lottery becomes the second specific result;
When the game is controlled to the first special game state, the game is controlled to the non-special game state when the maximum number of special games has been played since the game was controlled to the first special game state .
The special results include a specific special result;
In the first special game state, when the result of the special lottery is the specific special result and the special game based on the specific special result is generated, the game is controlled to the first special game state even after the special game ends,
This gaming machine is characterized in that when, in the non-special game state, the result of the special lottery becomes the specific special result and the special game based on the specific special result occurs, the gaming machine is controlled to the non-special game state even after the special game ends .

Images