JP7701059B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines.

Conventionally, in pachinko gaming machines, which are a type of gaming machine, when a jackpot display result is displayed in a pattern changing game, a jackpot game is awarded in which a special ball entrance is opened, and a performance is executed to heighten the anticipation of a jackpot.

Among these pachinko gaming machines, for example, there is one that displays a specific image such as a specific background image during a specific period spanning multiple consecutive pattern change games, and indicates the likelihood of a jackpot based on the number of pattern change games in which the specific image is displayed, as in Patent Document 1.

JP 2012-75523 A

However, in such gaming machines, it is desirable to increase interest in the game by improving the presentation effect of the presentation in which the specific image is displayed.
The present invention has been made in consideration of the problems existing in the conventional technology, and has an object to provide a gaming machine which can increase the interest in the game.

The gaming machine that solves the above problem is a gaming machine in which a jackpot game is awarded after a jackpot display result is displayed in a symbol variation game, and is equipped with an effect execution means that executes effects, and the effects executed by the effect execution means include a specific effect that is executed in a specific period that is a part of the period in which one symbol variation game is executed, and a special effect that can be executed when the specific effect is started, and the specific periods include a first specific period and a second specific period having a control time longer than the first specific period, and the specific effect is executed in the first specific period and in the second specific period, and when executed in the first specific period, it is executed until a predetermined time has elapsed since control in the first specific period, and when executed in the second specific period, it is executed until the predetermined time has elapsed since control in the second specific period. a special effect capable of displaying a different specific image when the special effect is executed in the second specific period and when the special effect is executed in the second specific period, the special effect being an effect that displays the same special image when the special effect is executed in the first specific period and when the special effect is executed in the second specific period, the special effect being an effect that variably displays an image indicating a jackpot expectation, the special effect being an effect that is more likely to change to an image with a higher jackpot expectation when the special effect is executed in the second specific period than when the special effect is executed in the first specific period, a pseudo consecutive effect being capable of being executed when the special effect is being executed, the pseudo consecutive effect being an effect that is capable of executing unit effects multiple times during one pattern variation game, the special effect being more likely to change to an image with a higher jackpot expectation when the special effect is executed in the second specific period, However, the number of times that the unit performance is continuously executed in the pseudo consecutive performance that is executed when the specific performance is being executed is greater than when the specific performance is executed in the first specific period, and when the unit performance is continuously executed in the pseudo consecutive performance that is executed when the specific performance is being executed, a performance that can specify that the unit performance is continuously executed is executed, and the performance that can specify that the unit performance is continuously executed is a performance in which a continuing pattern combination is temporarily stopped and displayed, and the specific performance may be executed during the execution of multiple consecutive unit performances in one pattern change game, and when multiple consecutive unit performances are executed during the execution of one pattern change game, during the execution of the unit performance that is executed earliest among the multiple consecutive unit performances and a case where the specific effect is executed during the execution of the unit effect that is executed after the first unit effect, and a case where the specific effect is not executed during the execution of the first of a plurality of consecutive unit effects, and the specific effect is executed during the execution of the unit effect that is executed after the first unit effect, and when a plurality of consecutive unit effects are executed during the execution of one pattern change game, the specific effect can be executed across a plurality of consecutive unit effects , and the image indicating the probability of a jackpot that is displayed during the specific effect may change across a plurality of consecutive unit effects, but the specific image that is displayed during the specific effect is displayed unchanged even across a plurality of consecutive unit effects .

The present invention can increase interest in games.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a pachinko gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko game machine. FIG. 13A to 13H are diagrams showing the presentation modes of various presentations. 13A to 13H are diagrams showing the presentation modes of various presentations. 13A to 13H are diagrams showing the presentation modes of various presentations. 13A to 13H are diagrams showing the presentation modes of various presentations. FIG. 4A to 4D are diagrams showing presentation modes based on presentation patterns. FIG. 13A to 13F are diagrams showing the presentation modes of the presentation blocks. 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a control mode of a special zone. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a read-ahead command setting process.

[First embodiment]
An embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below.
In this specification, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (back) indicate the respective directions as seen by the player.

As shown in Fig. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 10 serving as a gaming machine includes a frame 11. The frame 11 is a member for mounting various components such as a game board 20.
The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a launch handle 16. For example, the launch handle 16 is provided on the front side of the frame body 11. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, a game ball (game medium) is launched toward a game area 21 of a game board 20 with a strength corresponding to an operation amount (rotation amount) of the launch handle 16. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is configured so that the launch strength of the game ball can be adjusted by operating the launch handle 16.

The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a decorative lamp 17. For example, the decorative lamp 17 is provided on the front side of the frame body 11. The decorative lamp 17 has a built-in light-emitting element (not shown) and is configured to be able to emit light, blink, and turn off using the light-emitting element. The decorative lamp 17 executes an effect of emitting light, blinking, and turning off (hereinafter referred to as a light-emitting effect) as one of its effects.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a speaker 18. For example, the speaker 18 is provided on the front side of the frame body 11. The speaker 18 is a device that outputs sound, and as one of the effects, it executes an effect (hereinafter referred to as an audio effect) that outputs sounds such as the voices of people and animals, sound effects, and music.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an operation button 19 on the front side of the frame 11, in a position that can be operated by the player. The operation button 19 as an operating means is used, for example, during performances.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an information display device 22. For example, the information display device 22 is provided in a position on the gaming board 20 that is visible to the player. The information display device 22 displays various information indicating the control status of the pachinko gaming machine 10.

The information display device 22 is equipped with a first special symbol display unit 22a. The first special symbol display unit 22a is configured to be capable of displaying one or more types of first special symbols. The first special symbol display unit 22a is capable of executing a first special symbol change game (first change game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a changing manner, and the first special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed, stopped symbol. In the following description, the "first special symbol change game" may be abbreviated to "first special game."

The information display device 22 is equipped with a second special symbol display unit 22b. The second special symbol display unit 22b is configured to be capable of displaying one or more types of second special symbols. The second special symbol display unit 22b is capable of executing a second special symbol change game (second change game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a changing manner, and the second special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed, stopped symbol. In the following description, the "second special symbol change game" may be abbreviated to "second special game."

In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the first special symbol changing game and the second special symbol changing game, they may be collectively referred to as the "special symbol changing game (symbol changing game)" and the special symbol changing game may be referred to as the "special game." The first special symbol and the second special symbol are symbols for notifying the result of a lottery (a jackpot lottery described later) that is performed internally in the pachinko gaming machine 10.

In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of the displayed pattern changes over time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" means a state in which the pattern is fixedly displayed and the type of the displayed pattern does not change. In this specification, "fixed stop display" and "derive" have the same meaning when it comes to patterns. The special patterns that can be derived in the first special pattern display section 22a and the second special pattern display section 22b each include a jackpot pattern as a jackpot display result and a loss pattern as a loss display result. When a jackpot pattern is derived in a special game, the player can recognize that a jackpot has occurred. When a loss pattern is derived in a special game, the player can recognize that a loss has occurred.

In this embodiment, the first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously. In this embodiment, the second special game is executed in priority to the first special game. In this embodiment, if the jackpot lottery is won, a jackpot pattern is derived in the special game, and the jackpot game is awarded after the special game ends. In other words, the jackpot game (winning game) is a game that is awarded on the condition that the jackpot lottery is won, and is a game that is awarded after the jackpot display result is displayed in the special game. As will be described in more detail later, the jackpot game is a game in which a large number of prize balls can be won, and is therefore an advantageous game (state) for the player.

The information display device 22 includes a first special hold display section 22c. The first special hold display section 22c displays information that allows the user to recognize 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." The information display device 22 includes a second special hold display section 22d. The second special hold display section 22d displays information that allows the user to recognize 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." For example, the maximum values of the first special hold number and the second special hold number are each "4."

The information display device 22 includes a normal symbol display unit 22e. The normal symbol display unit 22e is configured to be capable of displaying one or more types of normal symbols. The normal symbol display unit 22e can execute a normal symbol variable game (normal variable game) in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and a normal symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. In the following description, the normal symbol variable game is abbreviated to "normal game". The normal symbols that can be derived to the normal symbol display unit 22e include a normal winning symbol and a normal losing symbol. When a normal winning symbol is derived in the normal game, the player can recognize that a normal winning has occurred. When a normal losing symbol is derived in the normal game, the player can recognize that a normal losing has occurred. In this embodiment, when a winning lottery for a normal symbol is won, a normal winning symbol is derived in the normal game, and a normal winning game is awarded after the normal game ends. As will be explained in more detail later, normal winning games are advantageous for players because they make it easier to achieve the reserve conditions for the second special game.

The information display device 22 is equipped with a normal hold display section 22f. The normal hold display section 22f displays information that allows the user to recognize the number of normal games (number of normal hold games) whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. For example, the maximum value of the normal hold number is "4."

Next, the game board 20 will be described.
The game board 20 has a surface (front side) of the game board 20 divided into a substantially circular shape by rails, forming a game area 21. The pachinko game machine 10 also has a center frame 26 decorated with various ornaments in the substantially center of the game area 21. The center frame 26 has an opening 26a.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a performance display device 27 as a performance execution means for executing a performance. The performance display device 27 is equipped with a display area 27r in which an image is displayed. The performance display device 27 is attached to the game board 20 so that the player can view the display area 27r through the opening 26a of the center frame 26. The performance display device 27 executes a performance (hereinafter referred to as a display performance) that displays an image (picture) that imitates a specified character or letter as one of the performances.

In this embodiment, the display effects that can be executed by the effect display device 27 include an effect pattern change game in which effect patterns are displayed in a variable manner in multiple rows, and ultimately a combination of effect patterns is derived. In the following explanation, the effect pattern change game is abbreviated to "effect game." The effect patterns are patterns (decorative patterns) decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are intended to diversify the display effects. In this embodiment, the effect game is performed by displaying (scrolling) the first, second, and third rows of patterns in a variable manner in a predetermined direction.

The presentation game is started with the start of the special game and ends with the end of the special game. In the presentation game, a combination of presentation symbols corresponding to the special symbols derived in the special game is derived. When a jackpot symbol is derived in the special game, a combination of symbols for a jackpot based on the presentation symbols is derived in the presentation game. For example, a combination of symbols for a jackpot based on the presentation symbols is a combination of symbols in which the presentation symbols in all columns are the same, such as "333" or "777". When a losing symbol is derived in the special game, a losing combination of symbols based on the presentation symbols is derived in the presentation game. For example, a losing combination of symbols based on the presentation symbols is a combination of symbols in which the presentation symbols in at least some columns are different from the presentation symbols in the other columns, such as "787" or "556". In addition, in the presentation game, the presentation symbols may be displayed temporarily before being displayed as a fixed stop. In this specification, a "temporary stop display" refers to a temporary stop state before the performance pattern is displayed in a definite stop state, for example, a state in which the performance pattern is displayed in a fluctuating manner.

The performance game may include a reach performance that is performed by forming a reach. A reach is a state in which the same performance pattern is temporarily displayed in a specific column (the first and third columns in this embodiment) among multiple columns, and the performance pattern in a column other than the specific column (the second column in this embodiment) continues to be displayed in a variable manner. For example, there may be multiple types of reach performances in which the characters that appear and the actions of the performance patterns differ.

The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a first start port 28 that opens into the game area 21 below the center frame 26. The first start port 28 is open so that game balls can be inserted at all times. The first start port 28 is capable of receiving game balls. The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a first start sensor SE1 that detects game balls that have entered the first start port 28. For example, the first start sensor SE1 is provided in a passage through which game balls that have entered the first start port 28 pass. In this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, the reservation condition (first reservation condition) of the first special game may be established, and the payout condition of the prize ball is established. In this way, the first start sensor SE1 detects the entry of a game ball into the first start port 28 (a game ball that has entered the first start port 28). Additionally, the first special game may be executed (can be executed) when a game ball enters the first starting hole 28.

The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a second start port 29 that opens into the game area 21 below the center frame 26. The second start port 29 is capable of receiving a game ball. The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a second start sensor SE2 that detects a game ball that has entered the second start port 29. For example, the second start sensor SE2 is provided in a passage through which the game ball that has entered the second start port 29 passes. In this embodiment, when the game ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, the reservation condition (second reservation condition) of the second special game can be established, and the payout condition of the prize ball is established. In this way, the second start sensor SE2 detects the entry of a game ball into the second start port 29 (a game ball that has entered the second start port 29). In addition, the second special game may be executed (can be executed) when a game ball enters the second start port 29.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a normal variable member 30 that can be operated in an open state (permitted state) and a closed state (restricted state) in the game area 21. The open state is a state in which the game ball can be inserted into the second starting hole 29 or it is easy to insert the ball into the second starting hole 29. The closed state is a state in which the game ball cannot be inserted into the second starting hole 29 or it is difficult to insert the ball into the second starting hole 29. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a normal actuator A1 (shown in FIG. 2) that operates the normal variable member 30. The normal variable member 30 is operated to the open state during normal winning play. In this way, the normal variable member 30 operates so that the second starting hole 29 can be inserted into an open state and a closed state.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a large prize opening 31 that opens into the gaming area 21 at the lower right of the center frame 26. The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a special prize opening sensor SE3 that detects a gaming ball that enters the large prize opening 31. For example, the special prize opening sensor SE3 is provided in a passage through which a gaming ball that enters the large prize opening 31 passes. In this embodiment, when a gaming ball is detected by the special prize opening sensor SE3, the condition for paying out a prize ball is met.

The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a special variable member 32 that can be operated in an open state (permitted state) and a closed state (restricted state) in the game area 21. The open state is a state in which the game ball can be inserted into the large prize opening 31 or is easy to insert. The closed state is a state in which the game ball cannot be inserted into the large prize opening 31 or is difficult to insert. The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a special actuator A2 (shown in FIG. 2) that operates the special variable member 32. The special variable member 32 is operated to the open state in a jackpot game. In this way, the special variable member 32 operates so that the large prize opening 31 can be inserted into an open state and a closed state. In other words, a jackpot game is a game in which the large prize opening 31 is opened (the large prize opening 31 is opened).

The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a gate 33 through which a gaming ball can pass (enter) located to the right of the center frame 26 in the gaming area 21. The gate 33 is capable of receiving a gaming ball and has a gate sensor SE4 (shown in FIG. 2) that detects a gaming ball passing through the gate 33. In this embodiment, when a gaming ball is detected by the gate sensor SE4, a reserve condition for the normal game can be established.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a general winning opening 34 that opens into the gaming area 21 to the right of the center frame 26. The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a general winning sensor SE5 (shown in FIG. 2) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the general winning opening 34. For example, the general winning sensor SE5 is provided in a passage (not shown) through which a gaming ball that has entered the general winning opening 34 passes. In this embodiment, when a gaming ball is detected by the general winning sensor SE5, a condition for the payout of a prize ball is established. Note that the pachinko gaming machine 10 may have multiple general winning openings.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a first start port 28, a second start port 29, a big prize port 31, and a general prize port 34 as prize ports. The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be equipped with prize ports other than the above prize ports. A "prize" is when a gaming ball enters a prize port. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is also equipped with components, such as nails and windmills, for changing the behavior of the gaming ball flowing down the play area 21.

In addition, in this embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine is provided with multiple movable bodies KL, KR. The multiple movable bodies KL, KR include a left movable body KL and a right movable body KR that resemble swords. In this embodiment, the left movable body KL moves when driven by the first performance actuator A3 (shown in FIG. 2), and the right movable body KR moves when driven by the second performance actuator A4 (shown in FIG. 2). The left movable body KL and the right movable body KR perform moving performances. Thus, in this embodiment, the left movable body KL and the right movable body KR correspond to the moving performance means.

Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a low probability state and a high probability state as gaming states with different jackpot probabilities. The jackpot probability is the probability of winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery. The high probability state is a gaming state in which the jackpot probability is higher than in the low probability state. In the high probability state, the possibility of winning the jackpot lottery is higher than in the low probability state, making it an advantageous gaming state for the player. The high probability state is what is known as a "probability-varying state (high probability state)."

The pachinko game machine 10 has a low base state and a high base state as game states with different ratios of the number of winning balls to the number of game balls fired. The high base state is a game state in which the probability of a game ball entering the second starting hole 29 is higher than in the low base state. The high base state is a so-called "electric support state", and the low base state is a so-called "non-electric support state". In the high base state, the probability of a game ball entering the second starting hole 29 increases, making it easier for game balls to enter the second starting hole 29, resulting in a game state that is advantageous to the player (easy ball entry state, improved ball entry rate state).

For example, the high base state can be realized by performing one of the three controls described below, which are arbitrarily selected, or by combining a plurality of controls. The first control is a normal symbol variation time shortening control that shortens the variation time of the normal game compared to the low base state. The second control is a normal symbol probability variation control that varies the probability of winning the normal symbol winning lottery (normal winning probability) to a higher probability than in the low base state. The third control is an opening time extension control that lengthens the total opening time of the normal variable member 30 in one normal winning game compared to the low base state. Note that the opening time extension control may be at least one of the following: a control that increases the number of times the normal variable member 30 is opened in one normal winning game compared to the low base state, and a control that lengthens the opening time of one normal variable member 30 in a normal winning game compared to the low base state.

In this embodiment, the probability of a normal hit in the low base state exceeds 0. Therefore, the normal variable member 30 can be operated to the open state in the low base state. The probability of a normal hit in the low base state may be 0. In this case, the normal variable member 30 is not operated to the open state in the low base state. In other words, the low base state can be said to be a state in which it is more difficult for a game ball to enter the second starting hole 29 or in which a game ball does not enter the second starting hole 29 compared to the high base state.

The high base state may also be achieved by combining it with the fourth control, which will be described next. The fourth control is a special symbol fluctuation time shortening control that shortens the fluctuation time of the special game (e.g., the average fluctuation time) compared to the low base state. When special symbol fluctuation time shortening control is performed, the high base state becomes a so-called "fluctuation time shortening state" for the special symbol. In contrast, the low base state becomes a so-called "non-fluctuation time shortening state" for the special symbol.

Next, a jackpot in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
The pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment has a plurality of types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. A type of jackpot is determined for each of the plurality of types of jackpot symbols. A type of jackpot game is determined for each of the plurality of types of jackpot symbols (types of jackpots).

In the jackpot game, first, an opening performance is performed for a predetermined opening time to notify the start of the jackpot game. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, multiple rounds of play are played in which the jackpot winning hole 31 is opened. The rounds are played up to the upper limit number of times. In this embodiment, the upper limit number of times is a predetermined number of times.

A round of play ends when a first end condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit number ("9" in this embodiment) of game balls enter the large prize opening 31, or when a second end condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed. In other words, the end conditions for each of the multiple rounds of play include a first end condition in which the number of game balls entering the large prize opening 31 becomes the upper limit number, and a second end condition in which the number of game balls entering the large prize opening 31 does not become the upper limit number and a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed. In a round of play, the large prize opening 31 is opened in a predetermined opening manner, and more specifically, it takes an open state when the round of play starts and takes a closed state when the round of play ends. In a round of play, a round performance is performed. In this way, the special variable member 32 operates so that the large prize opening 31 can be in an open state during each of the multiple rounds of play, and when the start conditions for starting each round of play are met, the large prize opening 31 is in an open state, and when the end conditions for ending each round of play are met, the large prize opening 31 is in a closed state. Then, when the final round of play ends in a jackpot game, an ending presentation is performed for a predetermined ending time to notify the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game ends as the ending time passes.

Next, a specific jackpot in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
In this embodiment, of the 100 types of jackpot symbols displayed in the first special symbol display section 22a as the game result of the first special game, 65 types of jackpot symbols are classified as symbols ZA, and 35 types of jackpot symbols are classified as symbols ZB. Also, of the 100 types of jackpot symbols displayed in the second special symbol display section 22b as the game result of the second special game, 65 types of jackpot symbols are classified as symbols Za, and 35 types of jackpot symbols are classified as symbols Zb. Thus, in this embodiment, there are two types of jackpots in the first special game and two types of jackpots in the second special game, but this is not limited to this. Hereinafter, the types of jackpots will be expressed as jackpots based on symbols ZA, ZB, Za, and Zb, using the types of jackpot symbols. In addition, the type of jackpot game awarded based on the type of jackpot is expressed as a jackpot game based on the patterns ZA, ZB, Za, and Zb using the type of jackpot pattern.

For jackpot games based on the symbols ZA and Za, the upper limit for the number of rounds is set to 10. For jackpot games based on the symbols ZB and Zb, the upper limit for the number of rounds is set to 4, which is less than 10.

In this embodiment, the upper limit time for round play is set to 25 seconds for each jackpot game. Note that in this embodiment, an inter-round interval time (2 seconds in this embodiment) is set (specified) for each of the multiple round plays after the end of the round play, and when the inter-round interval time has elapsed, the next round play will start, or the ending time will start. Also, in this embodiment, the same opening time (8 seconds in this embodiment) and the same ending time (10 seconds in this embodiment) are set for all types of jackpot games.

For the patterns ZA and Za, a high probability state and a high base state are defined as the game states after the end of a jackpot game. After the end of a jackpot game based on the patterns ZA and Za, the high probability state and the high base state are defined until the next jackpot game is awarded. For the patterns ZB and Zb, a low probability state and a high base state are defined as the game states after the end of a jackpot game. After the end of a jackpot game based on the patterns ZB and Zb, the low probability state is defined, and the high base state is defined as the game states after the end of a jackpot game until the end of a predetermined maximum number of special games (100 times in this embodiment) or until a jackpot game is awarded before the end of the maximum number of special games.

In this embodiment, the probability of a jackpot is set to 345/65536 in the low probability state and 734/65536 in the high probability state. The probability of a normal hit is set to 1/65536 in the low base state and 65534/65535 in the high base state. In this embodiment, a normal hit lottery was performed to determine whether a normal hit would occur, but this is not limited to the above. For example, a normal hit lottery may not be performed, and a normal hit may be determined in the low base state, while a normal hit may not be determined in the high base state. The total opening time of the normal variable member 30 in one normal hit game is set to 396 ms in the low base state and 5680 ms in the high base state. The number of winning balls is set to "4" when a game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, "1" when a game ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, "15" when a game ball is detected by the special winning sensor SE3, and "5" when a game ball is detected by the general winning sensor SE5.

Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
2, the pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a main control board 40 on the back side (rear) of the game board 20. The main control board 40 performs various processes and outputs control signals (control commands) according to the results of the processes.

The pachinko game machine 10 also has a sub-control board 41 on the back (rear) of the game board 20. The sub-control board 41 executes a predetermined process based on a control signal input from the main control board 40. For example, the sub-control board 41 executes processes for executing light emission effects by the decorative lamps 17, audio effects by the speaker 18, and display effects by the effect display device 27.

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

The main control ROM 40b stores a main control program, tables used in a predetermined lottery, and judgment values. The main control ROM 40b also stores a plurality of types of fluctuation patterns. The fluctuation pattern is information that can specify the fluctuation time from when a special game is started to when the special game is ended. In this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern is information that can specify the presentation content (presentation mode) of a presentation game that is performed between when a special game is started and when the special game is ended, such as the type of reach presentation. Note that, for example, the fluctuation pattern does not have to be information that can specify the presentation content of a presentation game that is performed between when a special game is started and when the special game is ended, as long as it is information that can specify the fluctuation time from when a special game is started to when the special game is ended.

There are three types of fluctuation patterns: a jackpot fluctuation pattern, a miss reach fluctuation pattern, and a miss fluctuation pattern. In the jackpot fluctuation pattern, the performance content of the performance game is determined to be a performance content that goes through a reach performance and ultimately derives a jackpot symbol combination. In the miss reach fluctuation pattern, the performance content of the performance game is determined to be a performance content that goes through a reach performance and ultimately derives a miss symbol combination. In the miss fluctuation pattern, the performance content of the performance game is determined to be a performance content that does not go through a reach performance and ultimately derives a miss symbol combination.

The main control RAM 40c is configured to be capable of storing various information that is rewritten during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. Information stored in the main control RAM 40c includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The main control board 40 is also configured to be capable of generating random numbers. For example, the random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

The main control CPU 40a and sensors SE1 to SE5 are connected. The main control CPU 40a is configured to be able to input the detection signals that are output when sensors SE1 to SE5 detect a game ball.

The main control CPU 40a and the actuators A1 and A2 are connected. The main control CPU 40a is configured to be able to control the operation of the actuators A1 and A2. The main control CPU 40a and the information display device 22 are connected. The main control CPU 40a is configured to be able to control the display contents of the information display device 22.

Next, the sub-control board 41 will be described.
The sub-control board 41 and the main control board 40 are connected to each other. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is configured so that a control signal can be output in one direction from the main control board 40 to the sub-control board 41.

The sub-control board 41 is equipped with a sub-control CPU 41a, a sub-control ROM 41b, and a sub-control RAM 41c. The sub-control CPU 41a executes a sub-control program to perform various processes (e.g., processes related to performance). The sub-control ROM 41b stores the sub-control program, tables used in the lottery, and judgment values. The sub-control ROM 41b stores display performance data related to the display performance in the performance display device 27. The sub-control ROM 41b stores light-emitting performance data related to the light-emitting performance in the decorative lamp 17. The sub-control ROM 41b stores audio performance data related to the audio performance in the speaker 18.

The sub-control RAM 41c is configured to be capable of storing various information that is appropriately rewritten during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. Information stored in the sub-control RAM 41c includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The sub-control board 41 is also configured to be capable of generating random numbers. For example, the random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

The sub-control CPU 41a and the performance display device 27 are connected. The sub-control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the display mode of the performance display device 27. The sub-control CPU 41a and the decorative lamp 17 are connected. The sub-control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp 17. The sub-control CPU 41a and the speaker 18 are connected. The sub-control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the output mode of the speaker 18. The sub-control CPU 41a and the operation button 19 are connected. The sub-control CPU 41a is configured to be able to input an operation signal indicating that the operation button 19 has been operated.

The sub-control CPU 41a is connected to the actuators A3 and A4. The sub-control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the actuators A3 and A4. The first performance actuator A3 is an actuator, such as a stepping motor, for moving (operating) the left movable body KL, and the second performance actuator A4 is an actuator, such as a stepping motor, for moving the right movable body KR.

Next, various processes performed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
First, the special symbol input process performed by the main control CPU 40a will be described. The special symbol input process is performed as an interrupt process.

In the special symbol input process, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not a gaming ball has entered the first start hole 28 based on whether or not a detection signal has been input from the first start sensor SE1.
When a game ball enters the first starting hole 28, the main control CPU 40a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c is less than the upper limit number ("4" in this embodiment). If the first special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 40a updates the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c by adding "1". This establishes the reservation condition for the first special game. In this process, the main control CPU 40a controls the information display device 22 to display the updated first special reserved number. In addition, the main control CPU 40a sets information (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved number command) that can identify the updated first special reserved number in the output buffer. The information (control command) set in the output buffer is output to the sub-control board 41 in the next or subsequent interrupt processing.

Next, the main control CPU 40a acquires 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 40c. For example, the random numbers are random numbers used in a jackpot lottery, random numbers used to determine a jackpot symbol, random numbers used to determine a variation pattern, etc. In this process, the main control CPU 40a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game, and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the first special game in the main control RAM 40c, it is possible to suspend the execution of the first special game until the execution conditions for the first special game are met. The random number information may be the acquired random numbers themselves, or may be information obtained by processing the random numbers using a predetermined method.

When no game ball has entered the first start hole 28, when the first special reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, and when random number information for the first special game has been stored in the main control RAM 40c, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not a game ball has entered the second start hole 29 based on whether or not a detection signal has been input from the second start sensor SE2. When no game ball has entered the second start hole 29, the main control CPU 40a ends the special symbol input process.

When a game ball enters the second starting hole 29, the main control CPU 40a determines whether the second special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c is less than the upper limit number ("4" in this embodiment). If the second special reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 40a ends the special symbol input process. If the second special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 40a updates the second special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c by adding "1". This establishes the reservation condition for the second special game. In this process, the main control CPU 40a controls the information display device 22 to display the updated second special reserved number. The main control CPU 40a also sets information that can identify the updated second special reserved number (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved number command) in the output buffer.

The main control CPU 40a 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 40c. In this process, the main control CPU 40a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that the random number information is for the second special game, and the order in which the random number information is stored. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the second special game in the main control RAM 40c, it is possible to 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 performed by the main control CPU 40a will be described. The special symbol start process is performed as an interrupt process.
In the special symbol start process, the main control CPU 40a judges whether a special game or a big win game is being played. If a special game or a big win game is being played, the main control CPU 40a ends the special symbol start process.

On the other hand, when neither the special game nor the big win game is being played, the main control CPU 40a judges whether the second special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c is "1" or more. When the second special reserved number is "1" or more, the main control CPU 40a performs a predetermined process so that the execution condition of the second special game is met and the second special game is started. On the other hand, when the second special reserved number is not "1" or more, the main control CPU 40a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c is "1" or more. When the first special reserved number is "1" or more, the main control CPU 40a performs a predetermined process so that the execution condition of the first special game is met and the first special game is started. In this way, the main control CPU 40a executes the second special game in priority over the first special game. On the other hand, when the first special reserved number is not "1" or more, the main control CPU 40a ends the special symbol start process.

When starting the first special game, the main control CPU 40a updates the first special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c by subtracting "1". In this process, the main control CPU 40a controls the information display device 22 so that the updated first special reserved number is displayed. Next, the main control CPU 40a reads out the random number information for the first special game from the main control RAM 40c, which is the first-stored random number information. After reading out the first-stored random number information, the main control CPU 40a erases the random number information from the main control RAM 40c.

Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not a jackpot will be won based on the read random number information and the jackpot determination value stored in the main control ROM 40b. The determination of whether or not a jackpot will be won is determined, for example, by whether or not the value of the random number identified from the random number information matches the jackpot determination value corresponding to the current probability state. In addition, the determination of whether or not a jackpot will be won may also be determined by whether or not the value obtained by adding the value of the random number identified from the random number information and the jackpot determination value exceeds a predetermined value.

When a jackpot is won, the main control CPU 40a determines the jackpot pattern to be derived in the first special game and the variation pattern of the first special game. For example, the main control CPU 40a determines the jackpot pattern to be derived in the first special game and the variation pattern of the first special game by a lottery using the random number information for the first special game that has been read out. When the jackpot pattern to be derived in the first special game is determined, the main control CPU 40a sets information (hereinafter referred to as a pattern command) capable of identifying the determined jackpot pattern in the output buffer. When the variation pattern of the first special game is determined, the main control CPU 40a sets information (hereinafter referred to as a game start command) capable of identifying the determined variation pattern and instructing the start of a presentation game based on the variation pattern in the output buffer. After setting the pattern command and the first game start command in the output buffer, the main control CPU 40a ends the special pattern start process. In this embodiment, the game start commands include a first game start command that instructs the start of an effect game based on the fluctuation pattern of a first special game, and a second game start command that instructs the start of an effect game based on the fluctuation pattern of a second special game, and the information is capable of identifying which special game fluctuation pattern is based on.

On the other hand, in the case of a loss that does not result in a jackpot, the main control CPU 40a determines the loss symbol to be derived in the first special game and the variation pattern of the first special game. For example, the main control CPU 40a determines the loss symbol to be derived in the first special game and the variation pattern of the first special game by a lottery using the read random number information for the first special game. When the loss symbol to be derived in the first special game is determined, the main control CPU 40a sets information (hereinafter referred to as a pattern command) capable of identifying the determined loss symbol in the output buffer. When the variation pattern of the first special game is determined, the main control CPU 40a sets a game start command capable of identifying the determined variation pattern and based on the variation pattern in the output buffer. After setting the pattern command and the first game start command in the output buffer, the main control CPU 40a ends the special pattern start process.

When starting the second special game, the main control CPU 40a performs the same control as when starting the first special game described above. In other words, the main control CPU 40a subtracts the second special reserved number, performs a jackpot lottery (jackpot determination), determines the jackpot or non-jackpot symbol based on the result of the jackpot lottery, determines the variation pattern based on the result of the jackpot lottery, and sets the symbol command and game start command. After that, the main control CPU 40a ends the special symbol start process.

When the special symbol start process is completed, the main control CPU 40a executes a special game by performing a process other than the special symbol start process. Specifically, the main control CPU 40a controls the information display device 22 so that a special game is started. The main control CPU 40a measures the change time set in the change pattern determined in the special symbol start process. The main control CPU 40a then controls the information display device 22 so that the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process is derived when the change time set in the change pattern has elapsed. Furthermore, when the change time set in the change pattern determined in the special symbol start process has elapsed, the main control CPU 40a instructs the stop of the change in the performance symbol, and sets information (hereinafter referred to as a game end command) for deriving a symbol combination by the performance symbol in the output buffer.

In this way, the main control CPU 40a can control the first special game and the second special game, and when the conditions for executing the special games are met, it controls the execution of the special games. In this embodiment, the main control CPU 40a, which determines a fluctuation pattern capable of identifying the fluctuation time of the special games, corresponds to the fluctuation pattern determination means.

Next, the big win processing performed by the main control CPU 40a will be described.
In the jackpot process, the main control CPU 40a performs control to award a jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start process. That is, the main control CPU 40a awards a jackpot game by executing the jackpot process.

When the special game of the jackpot ends, the main control CPU 40a first sets information capable of identifying the start of the opening time (hereinafter referred to as the opening command) in the output buffer. When the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 40a performs processing to execute a round of play. Specifically, the main control CPU 40a controls the special actuator A2 so that the large prize opening 31 is opened based on an opening pattern determined by the jackpot pattern (type of jackpot), and starts the round of play. After starting the round of play, when the first or second ending condition is established, the main control CPU 40a controls the special actuator A2 so that the large prize opening 31 is closed, and ends the round of play. The main control CPU 40a repeats such processing to execute the round of play until the specified number of rounds of play are completed.

In addition, the main control CPU 40a sets information capable of identifying the start of a round of play (hereinafter referred to as a round command) in the output buffer each time a round of play begins. When the final round of play ends, the main control CPU 40a sets information capable of identifying the start of the ending time (hereinafter referred to as an ending command) in the output buffer. When the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 40a ends the jackpot game.

Next, the game status processing performed by the main control CPU 40a will be described.
When the main control CPU 40a awards a jackpot game based on the symbols ZA and Za, it sets a value that can specify that the game state is controlled to a high probability state when the jackpot game ends to the main probability state flag stored in the main control RAM 40c. Also, when the main control CPU 40a awards a jackpot game based on the symbols ZA and Za, it sets a value that can specify that the game state is controlled to a high base state when the jackpot game ends to the main base state flag stored in the main control RAM 40c. In this case, the main control CPU 40a controls the game state so that the game state is in a high probability state and a high base state until the next jackpot game starts.

When the main control CPU 40a awards a jackpot game based on the patterns ZB and Zb, it sets a value that can specify that the game will be controlled to a low probability state when the jackpot game ends in the main probability state flag stored in the main control RAM 40c. Also, when the main control CPU 40a awards a jackpot game based on the patterns ZB and Zb, it sets a value that can specify that the game will be controlled to a high base state when the jackpot game ends in the main base state flag stored in the main control RAM 40c. In this case, since the main control CPU 40a awards a high base state with a set upper limit number of times, it stores the number of times equivalent to the upper limit number of times (100 times in this embodiment) in the main control RAM 40c as the remaining number of times for the special game that awards the high base state.

The main control CPU 40a subtracts "1" from the remaining number stored in the main control RAM 40c each time a special game is executed. When the remaining number becomes "0", the main control CPU 40a sets the main base state flag to a value that can specify that control will be made to the low base state upon completion of the special game in which the remaining number becomes "0". In other words, the main control CPU 40a ends the high base state and transitions to the low base state upon completion of the special game with the maximum number of times.

When the main control CPU 40a awards a jackpot game, it sets the main probability state flag to a value that can specify that the game will be controlled to a low probability state when the jackpot game starts. Also, when the main control CPU 40a awards a jackpot game, it sets the main base state flag to a value that can specify that the game will be controlled to a low base state when the jackpot game starts.

When the main control CPU 40a sets the main probability state flag to a value that can identify control to a low probability state, it sets information that can identify a low probability state (hereinafter referred to as a low probability state command) in the output buffer. On the other hand, when the main control CPU 40a sets the main probability state flag to a value that can identify control to a high probability state, it sets information that can identify a high probability state (hereinafter referred to as a high probability state command) in the output buffer.

When the main control CPU 40a sets the main base state flag to a value that can identify control to a low base state, it sets information that can identify a low base state (hereinafter referred to as a low base state command) in the output buffer. On the other hand, when the main control CPU 40a sets the main base state flag to a value that can identify control to a high base state, it sets information that can identify a high base state (hereinafter referred to as a high base state command) in the output buffer.

Next, the normal symbol input process performed by the main control CPU 40a will be described. The normal symbol input process is performed as an interrupt process.
In the normal symbol input process, the main control CPU 40a judges whether or not the game ball has passed (entered) the gate 33 based on whether or not a detection signal has been input from the gate sensor SE4. If the game ball has not passed through the gate 33, the main control CPU 40a ends the normal symbol input process. On the other hand, if the game ball has passed through the gate 33, the main control CPU 40a judges whether or not the number of normal reserved balls stored in the main control RAM 40c is less than the upper limit number ("4" in this embodiment). If the number of normal reserved balls is not less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 40a ends the normal symbol input process.

If the normal reserved number is less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 40a updates the normal reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c by adding "1". This establishes the reserve condition for the normal game. When a game ball enters the gate 33 and the normal reserved number has not reached the predetermined upper limit, the reserve condition for the normal game is established and the execution of the normal variable game is put on hold. The main control CPU 40a also controls the information display device 22 to display the updated normal reserved number. The main control CPU 40a also sets information capable of identifying the updated normal reserved number (hereinafter referred to as the normal reserved number command) in the output buffer.

Next, the main control CPU 40a 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 40c. For example, the random numbers are random numbers used in the lottery for determining whether a normal symbol is a winning symbol, and random numbers used to determine the variable time of the normal game. In this case, the main control CPU 40a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the normal game, and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the normal game in the main control RAM 40c, it is possible to suspend the execution of the normal game until the execution conditions for the normal game are met. Thereafter, the main control CPU 40a ends the normal symbol input process.

Next, the normal symbol start process performed by the main control CPU 40a will be described. The normal symbol start process is performed as an interrupt process.
In the normal symbol start process, the main control CPU 40a judges whether the normal game or normal winning game is being played. If the normal game or normal winning game is being played, the main control CPU 40a ends the normal symbol start process.

On the other hand, when not playing a normal game or when a normal winning game is in progress, the main control CPU 40a judges whether the normal reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c is "1" or more. If the normal reserved number is "1" or more, the main control CPU 40a performs a predetermined process so that the execution conditions for the normal game are met and the normal game starts. On the other hand, if the normal reserved number is not "1" or more, the main control CPU 40a ends the normal pattern start process.

When starting a normal game, the main control CPU 40a updates the normal reserved number stored in the main control RAM 40c by subtracting "1". In this process, the main control CPU 40a controls the information display device 22 so that the updated normal reserved number is displayed. Next, the main control CPU 40a reads out the random number information for the normal game that was stored first from the main control RAM 40c. After reading out the random number information that was stored first, the main control CPU 40a erases the random number information from the main control RAM 40c.

Next, the main control CPU 40a judges whether or not a normal win will be won based on the read random number information and the normal win judgment value stored in the main control ROM 40b (normal win lottery). The judgment of whether or not a normal win will be won is made, for example, by whether or not the value of the random number identified from the random number information matches the normal win judgment value corresponding to the current base state. In this way, the main control CPU 40a performs a normal win lottery and determines whether or not to grant a normal win game in which the second starting hole 29 can be opened by operating the normal variable member 30.

When a normal win is won, the main control CPU 40a determines the normal winning pattern derived in the normal game and the fluctuation time of the normal game. For example, when adopting the above-mentioned normal pattern fluctuation time shortening control, the main control CPU 40a determines a first fluctuation time in a low base state, and determines a second fluctuation time shorter than the first fluctuation time in a high base state. When the fluctuation time of the normal game is determined, the main control CPU 40a sets information capable of identifying the determined fluctuation time (hereinafter referred to as a normal start command) in the output buffer. Note that the normal start command may be information capable of identifying the result of the normal pattern winning lottery. After that, the main control CPU 40a ends the normal pattern start process.

On the other hand, if the normal win is not achieved, the main control CPU 40a determines the normal losing symbol to be derived in the normal game and the fluctuation time of the normal game. When the main control CPU 40a determines the fluctuation time of the normal game, it sets a normal start command capable of identifying the determined fluctuation time in the output buffer. After that, the main control CPU 40a ends the normal symbol start process.

Then, the main control CPU 40a executes the normal game by performing a process separate from the normal symbol start process. Specifically, the main control CPU 40a starts the normal game and controls the information display device 22 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 winning process performed by the main control CPU 40a will be described.
When a normal win is won, the main control CPU 40a determines the opening pattern of the second start hole 29 (the operation pattern of the normal variable member 30) and controls the normal actuator A1 so that the second start hole 29 is opened based on the determined opening pattern. For example, when the above-mentioned opening time extension control is adopted, the main control CPU 40a determines the first opening pattern in the low base state, and determines the second opening pattern in the high base state, in which the total opening time of the normal variable member 30 in one normal win game is longer than the first opening pattern.

Next, various processes performed by the sub-control CPU 41a will be described.
First, the presentation game processing performed by the sub-control CPU 41a will be described.
The sub-control CPU 41a determines a symbol combination to be derived in the performance game based on the game start command and the symbol command. When the special symbol identifiable from the symbol command is a big win symbol, the sub-control CPU 41a determines a big win symbol combination by the performance symbol. When the special symbol identifiable from the symbol command is a losing symbol, the sub-control CPU 41a determines a losing symbol combination by the performance symbol.

The sub-control CPU 41a also determines a losing symbol combination including a reach (for example, "787") when the conditions for executing a reach effect are met and the reach effect is to be executed in the effected game. In this embodiment, the conditions for executing a reach effect are set to be that a losing variation pattern with a reach effect has been determined. Note that the conditions for executing a reach effect may also be set to be that the sub-control CPU 41a has performed a predetermined reach lottery and won the reach lottery.

The sub-control CPU 41a also controls the effect display device 27 to change and display the effect symbols in each column in response to the input of a game start command. That is, the sub-control CPU 41a starts the effect game. When a predetermined timing arrives after the start of the effect game, the sub-control CPU 41a temporarily stops and displays the symbol combination based on the determined effect symbols, and in response to the input of a game end command, causes the symbol combination based on the determined effect symbols to be derived. Note that the sub-control CPU 41a may measure a change time that can be determined from the change pattern, regardless of the game end command, and cause the symbol combination to be derived in response to the passage of the change time. In this case, the game end command may be omitted.

Next, the big win presentation processing performed by the sub-control CPU 41a will be described.
The sub-control CPU 41a controls the performance display device 27 so that an opening performance is performed when an opening command is input. The sub-control CPU 41a controls the performance display device 27 so that a round performance is performed when a round command is input. Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 41a ends the round performance when a round end command is input. The sub-control CPU 41a controls the performance display device 27 so that an ending performance is performed when an ending command is input. In this way, the sub-control CPU 41a executes the opening performance, round performance, and ending performance as jackpot performances during jackpot play.

In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 41a controls the decorative lamp 17, speaker 18, left movable body KL, right movable body KR, etc. in addition to the performance display device 27 so that various performances are performed.

Next, the game status processing performed by the sub-control CPU 41a will be described.
When the sub-control CPU 41a inputs a low probability state command, it sets the sub-probability state flag stored in the sub-control RAM 41c to a value that can identify a low probability state. When the sub-control CPU 41a inputs a high probability state command, it sets the sub-probability state flag stored in the sub-control RAM 41c to a value that can identify a high probability state. By referring to the sub-probability state flag stored in the sub-control RAM 41c, the sub-control CPU 41a can identify whether the current game state is a low probability state or a high probability state.

When the sub-control CPU 41a inputs a low base state command, it sets the secondary base state flag stored in the sub-control RAM 41c to a value that can identify a low base state. When the sub-control CPU 41a inputs a high base state command, it sets the secondary base state flag stored in the sub-control RAM 41c to a value that can identify a high base state. By referring to the secondary base state flag stored in the sub-control RAM 41c, the sub-control CPU 41a can identify whether the current game state is a low base state or a high base state.

Here, the fluctuation pattern will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
As shown in Fig. 3, the fluctuation pattern of this embodiment is selected depending on whether or not a jackpot occurs. Specifically, the fluctuation patterns HP12, HP22, HP32, HP42, and HP52 are defined as jackpot fluctuation patterns. The fluctuation patterns HP11, HP21, HP31, and HP51 are defined as miss reach fluctuation patterns, and the fluctuation patterns HP01 and HP02 are defined as miss fluctuation patterns.

Fluctuation patterns HP11, HP12, HP21, HP22, HP31, HP32, and HP42 are selectable fluctuation patterns in a low base state, fluctuation patterns HP51 and HP52 are selectable fluctuation patterns in a high base state, and fluctuation patterns HP01 and HP02 are selectable fluctuation patterns in common to both the low base state and the high base state.

Furthermore, the variation patterns HP11, HP12, HP21, HP22, HP31, HP32, and HP42 are variation patterns in which a reach is formed in the presentation game (during the execution of the special game) and a first super reach (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "SR1") presentation is executed. The variation patterns HP51 and HP52 are variation patterns in which a reach is formed in the presentation game (during the execution of the special game) and a second super reach (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "SR2") presentation is executed.

Each fluctuation pattern corresponds to a fluctuation time, and the fluctuation time can be determined from the fluctuation pattern. Specifically, in this embodiment, fluctuation pattern HP02 is a fluctuation pattern that shortens the fluctuation time of fluctuation pattern HP01, and is more likely to be selected in a high base state than in a low base state. Furthermore, fluctuation pattern HP02 can be selected when the first special reserved number is large in a low base state, and fluctuation pattern HP01 can be selected when the second special reserved number is small in a high base state.

In this embodiment, the number of variation cycles (consecutive number) executed in one special game is associated with the variation pattern. A variation cycle is a unit performance executed in each of one or more predetermined periods in one special game, and is a unit performance associated with the variation of the performance pattern. In other words, a variation cycle is a unit performance executed in one or more predetermined periods to which one special game is assigned (divided). In this embodiment, a variation cycle other than the final one is defined as one variation cycle from the start of the variation display of the performance pattern to the time when the performance pattern is temporarily stopped and displayed, and a final variation cycle is defined as one variation cycle from the start of the variation display of the performance pattern to the time when the performance pattern is fixed and stopped and displayed.

In this embodiment, an upper limit on the number of fluctuation cycles that can be executed during one special game (upper limit on consecutive times, four times in this embodiment) is specified, and the number of fluctuation cycles executed during one special game can indicate the likelihood of a jackpot. In particular, it is specified that the greater the number of fluctuation cycles executed during one special game, the higher the likelihood of a jackpot. In addition, it is specified that when the number of fluctuation cycles executed during one special game reaches the upper limit, a jackpot is confirmed. Therefore, by continuing to execute the next fluctuation cycle during one special game, the likelihood of a jackpot is increased.

Specifically, the fluctuation patterns HP01, HP02, HP11, HP12, HP51, and HP52 are defined as fluctuation patterns in which one fluctuation cycle is executed in one special game. The fluctuation patterns HP21 and HP22 are defined as fluctuation patterns in which two fluctuation cycles are executed in one special game, the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 are defined as fluctuation patterns in which three fluctuation cycles are executed in one special game, and the fluctuation pattern HP42 is defined as a fluctuation pattern in which four fluctuation cycles are executed in one special game. Hereinafter, a performance in which multiple fluctuation cycles are executed in one special game will be referred to as a "pseudo consecutive performance."

In this embodiment, when the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 are determined, there are cases where three fluctuation cycles occur in one special game, and cases where one or two fluctuation cycles occur in one special game, and when one or two fluctuation cycles occur in one special game, it is controlled to the special zone.

In this embodiment, the special zone is a state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is high. In this special zone, the effect display device 27 displays a background image (special background image) that is different from the background image during normal times (normal background image), and points can be acquired in response to the operation of the operation button 19. The points acquired in this way are numerical values that can identify the probability of winning a jackpot, and it can be identified that the higher the points, the higher the probability of winning a jackpot. Also, in this embodiment, the effects executed when controlled by the special zone are different from effects that use effect patterns, such as reach effects. Hereinafter, effects executed when controlled by the special zone will be referred to as special zone effects.

Here, a specific example of the presentation mode of each type of presentation will be described with reference to Figs.
As shown in Fig. 4(a), the effect symbols are displayed as fixed stop in the display area 27r of the effect display device 27 in the low base state, and as shown in Fig. 4(b), when the execution of the special game starts, the effect symbols are displayed in a variable manner. In this case, the background image during normal times is displayed. Then, as shown in Fig. 4(c), the effect symbols are displayed as fixed stop with a losing symbol combination, and the special game ends.

As shown in FIG. 4(d), when the execution of the next special game starts, the fixed display of the effect symbols is changed. Then, as shown in FIG. 4(e), the left and right columns of effect symbols are temporarily displayed as "1" and are temporarily displayed as a reach pattern combination. Then, as shown in FIG. 4(f), the right column of effect symbols changes from "1" to "2" and the middle column of effect symbols is temporarily displayed as "2", and the continuation pattern combination is temporarily displayed. The continuation pattern combination is a combination of the middle and right columns of effect symbols that are "1" larger than the left column of effect symbols, and it is possible to specify that there is a next cycle of change in one special game and that the next cycle of change will continue. In this case, it is possible to specify that the first cycle of change has ended in one special game and that there is a second cycle of change.

As shown in FIG. 4(g), when the next fluctuation cycle (second fluctuation cycle) starts, the display symbols that were temporarily frozen are displayed. Then, as shown in FIG. 4(h), the display symbols in the left and right columns are temporarily frozen as "1" and are displayed temporarily frozen as a reach symbol combination. Then, as shown in FIG. 5(a), the display symbols in the right column change from "1" to "2" and the display symbols in the middle column are temporarily frozen as "2", and the continuation symbol combination is temporarily frozen. In this case, the second fluctuation cycle ends in one special game, and it is possible to identify that there will be a third fluctuation cycle.

As shown in FIG. 5(b), when the next variation cycle (the third variation cycle) starts, the display of the effect symbols that were temporarily stopped changes to a display of the effect symbols. Then, as shown in FIG. 5(c), the effect symbols in the left and right columns are temporarily displayed as "1" and temporarily displayed as a reach pattern combination, and it may become a reach without temporarily displaying a continuation pattern combination. This makes it possible to determine that the third variation cycle will be performed in one special game. Then, as shown in FIG. 5(d), the effect symbols are displayed as a fixed jackpot pattern combination, and the special game ends.

As shown in FIG. 5(e), the effect symbols are displayed as fixed and stopped, and as shown in FIG. 5(f), when the special game starts, the effect symbols are displayed in a variable manner. In this case, the normal background image is displayed. Then, as shown in FIG. 5(g), the effect symbols in the left and right columns are displayed as "1" and stopped temporarily as a reach pattern combination, and then, as shown in FIG. 5(h), the effect symbol in the right column changes from "1" to "2" and the effect symbol in the middle column is displayed as "2" and stopped temporarily as a continuation pattern combination.

As shown in FIG. 6(a), normally the next fluctuation cycle (second fluctuation cycle) would start, but there are cases where the next fluctuation cycle (second fluctuation cycle) does not start and the game enters a special zone. In this case, a special background image different from the normal background image is displayed. In addition, when the game enters the special zone, an image saying "Chance 4" is displayed, and it is possible to identify that the number of times controlled during the effective operation period in which the operation of the operation button 19 is effective is "4."

As shown in FIG. 6(b), after entering the special zone and executing the introductory performance, the game is controlled to the first valid operation period, and an image is displayed encouraging a single hit of the operation button 19. In addition, an image saying "Chance 1/4" is displayed, making it possible to specify that the number of times controlled during the valid operation period is the first of four. Then, as shown in FIG. 6(c), when the operation button 19 is operated once, a point image saying "+300" is displayed, and "300" is displayed as the accumulated points.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6(d), after the introductory performance is executed, the operation is controlled to the second valid operation period, and an image prompting a single hit operation of the operation button 19 is displayed. In addition, an image "Chance 2/4" is displayed, making it possible to specify that the number of times controlled during the valid operation period is the second of four. Then, as shown in FIG. 6(e), when the operation button 19 is operated once, a point image "+300" is displayed, and "600" is displayed as the cumulative points.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6(f), after the introductory performance is executed, the game is controlled to the third valid operation period, and an image is displayed encouraging the player to repeatedly tap the operation button 19. In addition, an image saying "Chance 3/4" is displayed, making it possible to specify that the number of times controlled during the valid operation period is the third out of four. Then, as shown in FIG. 6(g), when the operation button 19 is repeatedly tapped, a point image saying "+600" is displayed, and "1200" is displayed as the cumulative points.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6(h), after the introductory performance is executed, the game is controlled to the fourth valid operation period, and an image is displayed encouraging the player to press and hold the operation button 19. In addition, an image saying "Chance 4/4" is displayed, making it possible to specify that the number of times controlled during the valid operation period is the fourth out of four. Then, as shown in FIG. 7(a), when the operation button 19 is pressed and held, a point image saying "+900" is displayed, and "2100" is displayed as the cumulative points. Finally, as shown in FIG. 7(b), a result image showing that the cumulative points acquired in the special zone are "2100" is displayed.

Then, as shown in FIG. 7(c), the left and right columns of symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed as "1", which represents a reach symbol combination, and as shown in FIG. 7(d), the symbols are confirmed as a jackpot symbol combination and the special game ends.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 7(e), in the special zone, the left movable body KL and the right movable body KR may be displaced and then controlled to the effective operation period. In this case, after the introduction performance is executed, the left movable body KL and the right movable body KR are displaced, and as shown in FIG. 7(f), the control is performed to the third effective operation period, and an image prompting the long press operation of the operation button 19 is displayed. Also, an image "Chance 3/3" is displayed, and it is possible to specify that the number of times controlled to the effective operation period is the third out of three. Then, as shown in FIG. 7(g), when the operation button 19 is long pressed, a point image "+3000" is displayed, and "4500" is displayed as the accumulated points. Finally, as shown in FIG. 7(h), a result image is displayed in which the accumulated points acquired in the special zone are "4500".

Here, with reference to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, a description will be given of the presentation pattern that is determined when the variation patterns HP31, HP32 are determined.
As shown in FIG. 8, when the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 are determined, there are a plurality of kinds of the effect patterns EP3A to EP3D as the effect patterns that are determined. The effect pattern EP3A is an effect pattern in which a pseudo consecutive effect in which three fluctuation cycles are performed is executed without entering a special zone, and an SR1 effect is executed. The effect pattern EP3B is an effect pattern in which a pseudo consecutive effect in which two fluctuation cycles are performed is executed, and in the second fluctuation cycle, a special zone is entered, and an SR1 effect is executed. The effect pattern EP3C is an effect pattern in which a special zone is entered after the first fluctuation cycle is completed, and an SR1 effect is executed. The effect pattern EP3D is an effect pattern in which a special zone is entered in the first fluctuation cycle, and an SR1 effect is executed.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9(a), in presentation pattern EP3A, at the timing indicated by symbol T0, a special game is started, a presentation game is started, and the execution of the first variation cycle begins. In this case, the presentation is executed up until the generation of a reach. Then, at the timing indicated by symbol T2, the presentation symbols in the left and right columns are temporarily stopped and displayed as a reach pattern combination, after which the presentation symbols in the right column sway in the direction of change, and the presentation symbols in the right column change again, executing a teasing presentation that suggests that the presentation symbols will be temporarily stopped and displayed as a continuation pattern combination. Then, at the timing indicated by symbol T3, the presentation symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed as a continuation pattern combination.

Next, at the timing indicated by symbol T4, the display of the performance symbols begins to change, and the second cycle of change begins. In this case, the performance up until the generation of a reach is executed. Then, at the timing indicated by symbol T6, the performance symbols in the left and right columns are temporarily stopped and displayed as a reach pattern combination, after which the performance symbols in the right column sway and change in the direction of change, and the performance symbols in the right column change again, executing a teasing performance that suggests that the performance symbols will be temporarily stopped and displayed as a continuation pattern combination. Then, at the timing indicated by symbol T7, the performance symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed as a continuation pattern combination.

Next, at the timing indicated by symbol T8, the display of the performance symbols begins to change, and the third cycle of change begins. In this case, the performance up until the generation of a reach is executed. Then, at the timing indicated by symbol T9, the performance symbols in the left and right columns are temporarily stopped and displayed as a reach pattern combination, after which the performance symbols in the right column sway and change in the direction of change, and the performance symbols in the right column change again, executing a teasing performance that suggests that the performance symbols will be temporarily stopped and displayed as a continuation pattern combination. Next, at the timing indicated by symbol T10, the performance symbols are not temporarily stopped and displayed as a continuation pattern combination, and the execution of the SR1 performance begins.

Also, as shown in Figure 9 (b), in presentation pattern EP3B, the display of the presentation pattern begins to change at the timing indicated by symbol T4, and the second change cycle begins. In this case, the presentation that occurs when the change cycle begins is executed. Then, at the timing indicated by symbol T5, a special zone is entered, and at the timing indicated by symbol T10, the special zone ends and the execution of the SR1 presentation begins. This special zone is a period controlled based on special zone pattern ZP1.

Also, as shown in FIG. 9(c), in presentation pattern EP3C, at the timing indicated by symbol T4, the display of the presentation pattern does not start to change, but instead a special zone is entered, and at the timing indicated by symbol T10, the special zone ends and the execution of the SR1 presentation starts. This special zone is a period controlled based on special zone pattern ZP2, and is controlled for a longer period of time than the special zone controlled based on special zone pattern ZP1.

Also, as shown in Figure 9 (d), in presentation pattern EP3D, the execution of the first fluctuation cycle begins at the timing indicated by symbol T0. In this case, the presentation when the fluctuation cycle begins is executed. Then, at the timing indicated by symbol T1, the special zone is entered, and at the timing indicated by symbol T10, the special zone ends and the execution of the SR1 presentation begins. This special zone is a period controlled based on special zone pattern ZP3, and is controlled for a longer period of time than the special zones controlled based on special zone patterns ZP1 and ZP2.

Now, with reference to FIG. 10, the special zone pattern will be described.
As shown in Fig. 10, there are several types of special zone patterns ZP1 to ZP3. Special zone pattern ZP1 is a pattern that is referenced when the variation patterns HP31 and HP32 are determined and then the performance pattern EP3B is determined. Special zone pattern ZP2 is a pattern that is referenced when the variation patterns HP31 and HP32 are determined and then the performance pattern EP3C is determined. Special zone pattern ZP3 is a pattern that is referenced when the variation patterns HP31 and HP32 are determined and then the performance pattern EP3D is determined.

Multiple types of special zone patterns ZP1 to ZP3 are each associated with multiple types of effect block patterns. Specifically, special zone pattern ZP1 is associated with effect block patterns BP10 to BP18, special zone pattern ZP2 is associated with effect block patterns BP20 to BP29, and special zone pattern ZP3 is associated with effect block patterns BP30 to BP51. Then, one of the multiple types of effect block patterns corresponding to the special zone pattern is determined.

Furthermore, each of the multiple types of performance block patterns is associated with multiple performance blocks in chronological order. Specifically, performance block pattern BP10 is associated with performance block EB1, performance block EB1, performance block EB1, performance block EB1, and performance block EB3 in chronological order.

For each performance block, the operation of the operation button 19 is controlled during one valid operation period during which it is accepted as valid. Therefore, it can be said that the number of times the operation is controlled during the valid operation period corresponds to the number of performance blocks corresponding to the performance block pattern.

In addition, there are several types of performance blocks, EB1 to EB5, and the points that can be earned in response to the operation of the operation button 19 vary depending on the type of performance block. Specifically, performance block EB1 is a performance block that earns 300 points in response to the operation of the operation button 19. Performance block EB2 is a performance block that earns 450 points in response to the operation of the operation button 19. Performance block EB3 is a performance block that earns 600 points in response to the operation of the operation button 19. Performance block EB4 is a performance block that earns 900 points in response to the operation of the operation button 19. Performance block EB5 is a performance block that earns 3000 points in response to the operation of the operation button 19. For this reason, it can be said that the points that can be earned in response to the operation of the operation button 19 correspond to the type of performance block that corresponds to the performance block pattern.

In this embodiment, the common presentation blocks corresponding to the presentation block patterns include a special zone entry presentation block, a count notification presentation block, and a total result presentation block. The special zone entry presentation block is a presentation block for executing a special zone entry presentation that can identify the entry into the special zone, and is a presentation block that is executed when the special zone is entered. The count notification presentation block is a presentation block for executing a count notification presentation that can identify the number of operation effective control times that are controlled during the effective operation period, and is a presentation block that is executed after the special zone entry presentation block and before presentation blocks EB1 to EB5. The total result presentation block is a presentation block for executing a total result presentation that can identify the accumulated points acquired, and is a presentation block that is executed after presentation blocks EB1 to EB5. In this way, the special zone presentation is executed in the following order based on the presentation block pattern: special zone entry presentation, count notification presentation, presentation based on presentation blocks EB1 to EB5, and total result presentation.

Now, with reference to FIG. 11, the performance block will be described.
As shown in FIG. 11, multiple types of performance blocks are associated with the performance mode (performance content) to be executed and the timing of execution thereof, and information capable of identifying this correspondence is stored in the sub-control ROM 41b.

As shown in FIG. 11(a), in the performance block EB1, at the timing indicated by the symbol T11, a performance based on the performance block EB1 is started, and the execution of the first introduction performance is started. This first introduction performance is an introduction performance before the start of the effective operation period. Then, at the timing indicated by the symbol T12, the first introduction performance ends, and the execution of an action performance in which a specific character takes an action is started, and is controlled by the effective operation period. In this case, one operation is accepted as valid during the effective operation period. Then, the effective operation period ends with the timing indicated by the symbol T13 as the upper limit, and the execution of a result performance according to the operation of the operation button 19 is started. The result performance is a performance that displays the points acquired during the effective operation period in response to the operation of the operation button 19 and the points acquired by accumulating in one special zone. Then, the performance based on the performance block EB1 ends at the timing indicated by the symbol T15.

As shown in FIG. 11(b), in the performance block EB2, at the timing indicated by the symbol T11, the performance based on the performance block EB2 starts, and the execution of the second introduction performance starts. This second introduction performance is the introduction performance before the operation valid period starts, and is an introduction performance with a different performance mode from the first introduction performance. Then, at the timing indicated by the symbol T12, the second introduction performance ends, and the execution of the character performance in which a character image imitating a predetermined character is started. Next, at the timing indicated by the symbol T14, the character performance ends, and the execution of the action performance in which the predetermined character takes an action starts, and is controlled by the operation valid period. In this case, three operations are accepted as valid during the operation valid period. Then, the operation valid period ends with the timing indicated by the symbol T17 as the upper limit, and the execution of the result performance according to the operation of the operation button 19 starts. The result performance is a performance that displays the points acquired according to the operation of the operation button 19 during the operation valid period and the points acquired by accumulating in one special zone. Then, the performance based on the performance block EB2 ends at the timing indicated by the symbol T18.

As shown in FIG. 11(c), in the performance block EB3, at the timing indicated by the symbol T11, a performance based on the performance block EB3 is started, and the execution of the first introduction performance is started. This first introduction performance is an introduction performance before the operation valid period is started, and is an introduction performance with the same performance mode as the first introduction performance in the performance block EB1. Then, at the timing indicated by the symbol T12, the first introduction performance ends, and a development performance in which a character image imitating a specified character is displayed is executed. This development performance is a performance that can be identified as not being a performance based on the performance block EB1. In this case, a moving performance in which the left movable body KL and the right movable body KR swing is executed. Next, at the timing indicated by the symbol T14, the development performance ends, and the execution of an action performance in which a specified character performs an action is started, and the operation valid period is controlled. In this case, a repeated tapping operation is accepted as valid during the operation valid period. In other words, multiple operations are accepted as valid during the operation valid period. Then, at the timing indicated by the symbol T17, the operation valid period ends, and the execution of a result performance according to the operation of the operation button 19 is started. The result presentation is a presentation that displays the points acquired in response to the operation of the operation button 19 during the valid operation period, and the accumulated points acquired in one special zone. Then, the presentation based on presentation block EB3 ends at the timing shown by the symbol T18.

As shown in FIG. 11(d), in the performance block EB4A of the performance block EB4, at the timing indicated by the symbol T11, a performance based on the performance block EB4A is started, and the execution of the first introduction performance is started. This first introduction performance is an introduction performance before the operation valid period starts, and is an introduction performance with the same performance mode as the first introduction performance in the performance blocks EB1 and EB3. Then, at the timing indicated by the symbol T12, the first introduction performance ends, and a development performance in which a character image imitating a specified character is displayed is executed. This development performance is a performance that can be identified as not being a performance based on the performance block EB1. In this case, a moving performance in which the left movable body KL and the right movable body KR swing is executed. Next, at the timing indicated by the symbol T14, the development performance ends, and the execution of an action performance in which a specified character performs an action is started, and the operation is controlled to the operation valid period. In this case, a long press operation is accepted as valid during the operation valid period. In other words, an operation is accepted as valid for a specified time during the operation valid period. Then, the valid operation period ends at the timing shown by symbol T17, and execution of a result presentation according to the operation of the operation button 19 begins. The result presentation is a presentation that displays the points acquired according to the operation of the operation button 19 during the valid operation period, and the accumulated points acquired in one special zone. Then, the presentation based on presentation block EB4A ends at the timing shown by symbol T18.

As shown in FIG. 11(e), in the performance block EB4B of the performance block EB4, at the timing indicated by the symbol T11, a performance based on the performance block EB4B is started, and the execution of the second introduction performance is started. This second introduction performance is the introduction performance before the effective operation period starts, and is an introduction performance with the same performance mode as the second introduction performance in the performance block EB2. Then, at the timing indicated by the symbol T12, the second introduction performance ends, and thereafter, it is controlled in the same way as the performance based on the performance block EB4A.

In this embodiment, when the performance block pattern corresponds to the performance block EB4, either the performance block EB4A or EP4B is determined based on whether the variation pattern HP31 or the variation pattern HP32 has been determined. In particular, when the variation pattern HP32 is determined, the performance block EB4B is determined with a higher probability than when the variation pattern HP31 is determined, but this is not limited to this. For example, when the variation pattern HP32 is determined, the performance block EB4A may be determined with a higher probability than when the variation pattern HP31 is determined, or the probability may be the same.

As shown in FIG. 11(f), in the performance block EB5, at the timing indicated by the symbol T11, a performance based on the performance block EB5 is started, and the execution of the first introduction performance is started. This first introduction performance is the introduction performance before the operation effective period starts, and is the same performance mode as the first introduction performance in the performance blocks EB1, EB3, and EB4A. Then, at the timing indicated by the symbol T12, the first introduction performance ends, and a freeze performance is executed. This freeze performance is a performance in which the image that was displayed when the first introduction performance ended is continuously displayed. In this case, after the left movable body KL and the right movable body KR are displaced to a specific position, a movable performance in which they are displaced to their original positions is executed. This specific position is a position located on the front side of the performance display device 27. In other words, unlike the performance blocks EB3, EB4A, and EB4B, the performance block EB5 is a performance block in which a movable performance is executed in a manner in which they are displaced greatly. Then, at the timing indicated by the symbol T15, the freeze performance ends, and the third introduction performance is executed. The third introduction performance is a performance that has a different performance style from the first introduction performance and the second introduction performance, and is a performance that can be identified as a performance based on performance block EB5. Then, at the timing shown by symbol T16, the third introduction performance ends, and an action performance in which a specific character takes an action begins, and is controlled during the valid operation period. In this case, a long press operation is accepted as valid during the valid operation period. In other words, an operation is accepted as valid for a specific time during the valid operation period. Then, the valid operation period ends at the timing shown by symbol T19, and execution of a result performance in response to the operation of the operation button 19 begins. The result performance is a performance that displays the points acquired during the valid operation period in response to the operation of the operation button 19, and the points acquired cumulatively in one special zone. Then, the performance based on performance block EB5 ends at a timing later than the timing shown by symbol T19.

Furthermore, this performance block EB5 has a longer performance time than performance blocks EB1 to EB4. Performance blocks EB2 to EB4 have the same performance time. Performance block EB1 has a shorter performance time than performance blocks EB2 to EB5.

In this way, when the variation patterns HP31, HP32 are determined, the special zone is controlled during a portion of the period during which one special game is executed. In other words, the special zone presentation is executed during a portion of the period during which one special game is executed. In particular, there are multiple types of special zones based on special zone patterns ZP1 to ZP3 with different control times, and there are cases where the special zone is controlled as a special zone based on special zone pattern ZP1, cases where it is controlled as a special zone based on special zone pattern ZP2, and cases where it is controlled as a special zone based on special zone pattern ZP3. In other words, when the variation patterns HP31, HP32 are determined, it is controlled to one of the multiple types of special zones with different control times.

Next, the effect determination process executed by the sub-control CPU 41a will be described. The effect determination process is a process that is called at predetermined intervals.
First, the sub-control CPU 41a judges whether a game start command has been input. If it is judged that a game start command has not been input, the sub-control CPU 41a ends the effect determination process. On the other hand, if it is judged that a game start command has been input, the sub-control CPU 41a determines the effect content of the effect to be executed, stores information indicating the result of the determination in the sub-control RAM 41c, and ends the effect determination process.

Specifically, the sub-control CPU 41a determines a presentation pattern based on the input game start command and stores it in the sub-control RAM 41c. In particular, when the input game start command is a game start command that can identify the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32, the sub-control CPU 41a determines one of the presentation patterns EP3A to EP3D. In this case, the presentation pattern is determined with different probabilities when the game start command is a game start command that can identify the fluctuation pattern HP31, which is a miss reach fluctuation pattern, and when the game start command is a game start command that can identify the fluctuation pattern HP32, which is a jackpot fluctuation pattern.

In particular, when a game start command capable of identifying the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 is determined, the presentation pattern is determined at a rate where the presentation pattern EP3D has a higher jackpot expectation rate than the presentation pattern EP3C. Also, when a game start command capable of identifying the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 is determined, the presentation pattern is determined at a rate where the presentation pattern EP3C has a higher jackpot expectation rate than the presentation pattern EP3B. Also, when a game start command capable of identifying the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 is determined, the presentation pattern is determined at a rate where the presentation pattern EP3B has a higher jackpot expectation rate than the presentation pattern EP3A. Also, when the presentation pattern EP3B is determined, the special zone is controlled to be based on the special zone pattern ZP1. When the presentation pattern EP3C is determined, the special zone is controlled to be based on the special zone pattern ZP2. When the presentation pattern EP3D is determined, the special zone is controlled to be based on the special zone pattern ZP3. In other words, when controlled to a special zone based on the special zone pattern ZP3, the expectation of a jackpot is higher than when controlled to a special zone based on the special zone pattern ZP2, and when controlled to a special zone based on the special zone pattern ZP2, the expectation of a jackpot is higher than when controlled to a special zone based on the special zone pattern ZP1. Also, when controlled to a special zone based on the special zone pattern ZP3, the control time is longer than when controlled to a special zone based on the special zone pattern ZP2, and when controlled to a special zone based on the special zone pattern ZP2, the control time is longer than when controlled to a special zone based on the special zone pattern ZP1. In other words, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the expectation of a jackpot is higher than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time.

The sub-control CPU 41a selects one of a number of types of effect block patterns corresponding to the determined effect pattern, and stores it in the sub-control RAM 41c. In particular, the effect block pattern is determined at a rate where the probability of a jackpot is higher when the cumulative number of points that can be acquired is large than when the cumulative number of points is small. In other words, points are a numerical value that can specify the probability of a jackpot, and the probability of a jackpot is higher when the points are large than when the cumulative number of points is small. Also, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the probability of points (points that can be acquired in one operation valid period, points accumulated in the special zone) is higher than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time. In other words, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the probability of a jackpot is more likely to change to a high point than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time, and the probability of a jackpot is higher.

In addition, the presentation block pattern is determined at a rate where the probability of a jackpot is higher when the number of effective operation controls controlled during the effective operation period is large than when the number is small. In other words, the probability of a jackpot is higher when the number of effective operation controls is large than when the number is small. In other words, when the number of effective operation controls is the first number, the probability of a jackpot is higher than when the number is the second number, which is smaller than the first number. In addition, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the probability of the number of effective operation controls being large is higher than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time. In other words, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the number of effective operation controls is more likely to be large, and the probability of a jackpot being higher, than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time.

Also, the presentation block pattern is determined based on the proportion of presentation blocks with high jackpot expectation in the order of presentation block EB1, presentation block EB2, presentation block EB3, presentation block EB4, and presentation block EB5. Also, a single hit operation is notified in presentation block EB1, a three-time operation in presentation block EB2, a continuous hit operation in presentation block EB3, and a long press operation in presentation block EB4 and presentation block EB5, and it is determined whether the condition for adding points is met. In other words, the jackpot expectation varies depending on the type of operation mode of the operation button 19 to be notified, and the jackpot expectation increases in the order of a single hit operation, a three-time operation, a continuous hit operation, and a long press operation. In other words, when the second operation mode is notified, the jackpot expectation is higher than when the first operation mode is notified. In addition, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the operation mode is determined so that the likelihood of a jackpot is higher in the order of single-hit operation, triple-hit operation, continuous-hit operation, and long-press operation than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time. In other words, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the second operation mode is more likely to be determined (the second operation mode is more likely to be notified), and the likelihood of a jackpot is higher than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time.

Furthermore, the performance blocks EB3 to EB5 are performance blocks in which movable performance is executed, and the performance blocks EB1 and EB2 are performance blocks in which movable performance is not executed. In other words, when a movable performance is executed, the expectation of a jackpot is higher than when a movable performance is not executed. Furthermore, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the movable performance is executed with a higher probability than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time. In other words, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the movable performance is more likely to be executed and the expectation of a jackpot is higher than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time.

In a process separate from the performance determination process, the sub-control CPU 41a controls the performance display device 27 and actuators A3 and A4 to execute the special zone performance based on the results of the determination process (performance pattern, special zone pattern, and performance block pattern) and information about the performance blocks pre-stored in the sub-control ROM 41b.

Specifically, the sub-control CPU 41a controls the special zone at a timing corresponding to the presentation pattern determined in the presentation determination process. In this case, the sub-control CPU 41a causes the presentation display device 27 to display a special background image corresponding to the special zone. The sub-control CPU 41a also causes the special zone entry presentation, the number notification presentation, and the overall result presentation to be executed at a timing corresponding to the presentation pattern and presentation block pattern determined in the presentation determination process. The sub-control CPU 41a also causes various introductory presentations, character presentations, development presentations, action presentations, and result presentations to be executed at a timing corresponding to the presentation pattern and presentation block pattern determined in the presentation determination process and predetermined presentation blocks.

In this way, even if the type of special zone being controlled is different, the sub-control CPU 41a will cause the performance display device 27 to display the same images, such as the background image and the image based on the special zone entry performance, and execute the performance in the same performance mode until a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the special zone, and the sub-control CPU 41a will cause the performance display device 27 to execute the performance in the same performance mode. Furthermore, when controlled by a special zone, the sub-control CPU 41a will cause an image that can identify the number of effective control operations to be performed.

In particular, the sub-control CPU 41a controls the operation effective period at a timing corresponding to each performance block based on the performance pattern and performance block pattern determined in the performance determination process, and causes the performance display device 27 to display the operation mode corresponding to each performance block. In this way, when controlled to a special zone, the sub-control CPU 41a notifies the user of the operation mode of the operation button 19 by displaying the operation mode of the operation button 19 on the performance display device 27.

When the sub-control CPU 41a determines that the conditions for adding points are met in response to the operation signal from the operation button 19 during the effective operation period, it stores the predetermined points to be added in the sub-control RAM 41c and displays them on the performance display device 27. Specifically, the sub-control CPU 41a stores the added points corresponding to one effective operation period and the cumulative points in one special zone in the sub-control RAM 41c. On the other hand, when the sub-control CPU 41a determines that the conditions for changing the numerical value are not met in response to the operation signal from the operation button 19 during the effective operation period, it does not add the predetermined points and does not update the added points and cumulative points. In this way, when the sub-control CPU 41a is controlled to the special zone, it displays the points indicating the expected probability of a jackpot variably on the performance display device 27.

In addition, the sub-control CPU 41a executes a movement performance in which the left movable body KL and the right movable body KR are displaced at timing corresponding to each performance block.
In this embodiment, the period controlled by the special zone corresponds to the specific period, and the special zone performance corresponds to the specific performance. In this embodiment, among the special zones based on the special zone patterns ZP1 to ZP3, the period controlled by the special zone with a short control time corresponds to the first specific period, and the period controlled by the special zone with a long control time corresponds to the second specific period. In this embodiment, the special background image displayed when controlled by the special zone corresponds to the specific image. In this embodiment, the points that can be acquired in the special zone correspond to the numerical value. In this embodiment, there are multiple types of operation modes of the operation button 19 during the operation effective period, such as a single hit operation, a three-time operation, a continuous hit operation, and a long press operation, and among these multiple types of operation modes, an operation mode with a low expectation of a jackpot corresponds to the first operation mode, and an operation mode with a high expectation of a jackpot corresponds to the second operation mode. In this embodiment, at least one of the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 corresponds to the specific fluctuation pattern.

As described above in detail, this embodiment has the following advantages.
(1) During a part of the period during which one special game is executed, the special zone is controlled, and when the special zone is controlled, the special zone effect is executed. During the period during which the special zone is controlled, there are multiple types of special zones with different control times. The special zone effect is an effect in which the same image, such as a background image, is displayed in multiple types of special zones with different control times until a predetermined time has elapsed, and when the special zone is controlled to a special zone with a long control time, the effect has a higher expectation of a big win than when the special zone is controlled to a special zone with a short control time. Therefore, until a predetermined time has elapsed after being controlled to the special zone, it is not possible to specify which of the special zones with different control times the special zone has been controlled to from the displayed image. Therefore, it is possible to provide diversity to the control time of the special zone, and to heighten the expectation of a big win while drawing attention to the time during which the special zone effect is continuously executed, thereby improving the interest in the game.

(2) The special zone effect is an effect that changes the points indicating the probability of a jackpot, and when controlled by a special zone with a long control time, the points are more likely to change to a higher probability of a jackpot than when controlled by a special zone with a short control time. This makes it possible to draw attention to the time that the special zone effect continues to be executed, while also heightening the expectation that the points will change to a favorable degree in the special zone, thereby increasing interest in the game.

(3) The special zone presentation is a presentation that displays an image that identifies the number of effective operation controls that are controlled during the effective operation period when the operation of the operation button 19 is valid, and the greater the number of effective operation controls, the higher the expectation of a jackpot. Therefore, while drawing attention to the time that the special zone presentation is continuously executed and the image that identifies the number of effective operation controls that are controlled during the effective operation period, it is possible to heighten the expectation of the number of effective operation controls increasing, thereby improving interest in the game.

(4) The special zone presentation is a presentation in which, when the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 are determined as fluctuation patterns with identifiable fluctuation times, the player is controlled to one of the special zones with different control times. For this reason, even when the same fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 are determined, the player may be controlled to a special zone with a different control time, which draws attention to the time during which the special zone presentation is continuously executed and increases the player's interest in the game.

(5) In addition, the special zone presentation is a presentation that displays an image that can identify the number of effective operation controls controlled during the effective operation period, and when controlled by a special zone with a long control time, the number of effective operation controls is likely to be larger than when controlled by a special zone with a short control time. Therefore, the degree to which the number of effective operation controls increases depending on the special zone can be varied, and the player's operation opportunities can be varied, and attention can be drawn to the time that the special zone presentation is continuously executed and the increase in the number of effective operation controls, thereby improving interest in the game.

(6) The special zone presentation is a presentation that notifies the operation mode of the operation button 19, and when a rapid-fire operation and a long press operation are notified as the operation mode of the operating means, the expectation of a jackpot is higher than when a single-fire operation is notified. When controlled by a special zone with a long control time, rapid-fire operations and long press operations are more likely to be notified than when controlled by a special zone with a short control time. This makes it possible to provide diversity to the operation modes notified in the special zone, and to heighten the expectation of a jackpot while drawing attention to the time that the special zone presentation continues to be executed and the notified operation mode, thereby improving interest in the game.

(7) In addition, since the execution conditions controlled by the special zones may differ, it is possible to provide diversity in the execution conditions controlled by the special zones while drawing attention to those execution conditions, thereby increasing interest in the game.

(8) In addition, when the special zone effect is executed, the expectation of a jackpot is higher when the movable effect is executed than when the movable effect is not executed, and when the special zone is controlled to a long control time, the movable effect is more likely to be executed than when the special zone is controlled to a short control time. Therefore, it is possible to heighten the expectation of a jackpot while drawing attention to the time that the special zone effect is continuously executed and the execution of the movable effect, and to increase interest in the game.

[Second embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
In the first embodiment, the special zone is controlled during a part of the period during which one special game is executed, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the special zone may be controlled during a part of the period during which multiple consecutive special games are executed. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same configurations and the same control contents as those in the already described embodiments, and the duplicated description will be omitted or simplified.

As shown in FIG. 12, in the second embodiment, the first special game is executed at the timing indicated by the symbol T21, the second special game is executed at the timing indicated by the symbol T23, and the second special game is executed at the timing indicated by the symbol T26.

As shown in FIG. 12(a), in this case, as in the first embodiment, after the execution of the second special game is started at the timing indicated by reference symbol T23, control is given to the special zone at the timing indicated by reference symbol T24, and during the execution of the second special game, the special zone may end at the timing indicated by reference symbol T25.

As shown in FIG. 12(b), the special zone may be controlled during the execution of the first special game at the timing indicated by reference symbol T22, and then the special zone may end during the execution of the second special game at the timing indicated by reference symbol T25. In other words, there may be cases where the special zone is controlled during a portion of the period during which one special game is executed, and cases where the special zone is controlled during a portion of the period during which multiple consecutive special games are executed.

Now, referring to FIG. 13, the look-ahead command setting process executed by the main control CPU 40a will be described. This look-ahead command setting process is a process for setting a look-ahead command as information identified by the result of referencing various random numbers. In addition, the look-ahead command setting process is a process that is executed immediately after the end of the special pattern input process when the hold condition is met, and is not executed when a game ball enters the first starting hole 28 when the first special hold number is at the upper limit.

First, as shown in FIG. 13, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not a regulating condition is met, such as when the base state is high, or when the base state is low but the reserve condition for the second special game is met (step S101). If the regulating condition is met, the main control CPU 40a ends the look-ahead command setting process without executing steps S102 and S103. If the regulating condition is not met, the main control CPU 40a proceeds to step S102.

In step S102, the main control CPU 40a refers to the various random numbers obtained when the ball enters the first starting hole 28. Then, based on the reference results, the main control CPU 40a sets a look-ahead command in the main control RAM 40c (step S103) and ends the look-ahead command setting process.

More specifically, the main control CPU 40a determines the special reserved number when the ball enters the first starting hole 28. The main control CPU 40a also reads the value of the random number used in the jackpot lottery obtained when the ball enters the first starting hole 28, and determines whether the value matches the jackpot determination value. In particular, the main control CPU 40a determines whether the value of the random number used in the jackpot lottery matches the common jackpot determination value among the jackpot determination values, matches the jackpot determination value dedicated to high probability, or does not match the jackpot determination value. In other words, the main control CPU 40a determines whether the value of the random number used in the jackpot lottery matches the jackpot determination value regardless of whether the state is high probability or not, matches the jackpot determination value only when the state is high probability, or does not match the jackpot determination value regardless of whether the state is high probability or not.

In addition, the main control CPU 40a reads the value of the random number for special symbol allocation obtained when the ball enters the first starting hole 28, and determines the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) in the event of a jackpot based on the read value.

The main control CPU 40a also reads the value of the random number used to determine the variation pattern obtained when the ball enters the first starting hole 28, and, based on the read value, determines whether or not the variation pattern will result in a reach state being formed in the event of a miss. Note that in this embodiment, regardless of the first special reserved number and the second special reserved number, whether or not a reach state will be formed is determined until the execution of the special game begins.

Then, the main control CPU 40a determines a look-ahead command corresponding to the result thus determined. Specifically, the look-ahead command is a command that can determine whether or not a jackpot lottery will be won depending on the current number of special reserved balls, whether or not a high probability state is in place, the type of jackpot that will be won if a jackpot is obtained, and whether or not a fluctuation pattern that will create a reach state will be determined if a jackpot is not obtained.

In this way, the main control CPU 40a, in response to a ball entering the first starting hole 28, generates a look-ahead command that can at least identify whether the special game corresponding to the ball entering will be a jackpot before the start of the special game based on that ball entering. Such a look-ahead command is information that can identify the current number of special reserved balls, whether or not a jackpot will be obtained, the type of jackpot, and whether or not there will be a miss reach fluctuation, and can be said to be information that can identify whether or not the jackpot lottery will be won in a high probability state. In this way, the look-ahead command corresponds to the specific information, and the main control CPU 40a that generates the look-ahead command corresponds to the specific information generating means.

Then, the main control CPU 40a sets the generated read-ahead command in the output buffer. Note that in this embodiment, when a read-ahead command is output, a hold command is output before that.

On the other hand, when a look-ahead command and a hold designation command are input, the sub-control CPU 41a identifies the special hold number from the look-ahead command and stores the look-ahead command in the sub-control RAM 41c corresponding to the special hold number. In particular, the sub-control CPU 41a can identify the input order of the look-ahead commands by the look-ahead commands.

When a look-ahead command and a hold designation command are input, the sub-control CPU 41a determines whether the variation patterns HP31, HP32 are to be determined based on the input look-ahead command. When the sub-control CPU 41a determines that the variation patterns HP31, HP32 are to be determined, it causes the effect display device 27 to display a special background image with a predetermined probability. As a result, when the sub-control CPU 41a determines that the variation patterns HP31, HP32 are to be determined in the special game whose execution is held based on the input of the look-ahead command, it causes the special background image to be displayed over multiple consecutive special games, and controls the special zone.

In this embodiment, when the execution of the special game in which the variation patterns HP31 and HP32 are determined is on hold, a special background image is displayed and is not controlled during the effective operation period, but this is not limited to the above, and for example, the special zone may be configured to be controlled during the effective operation period depending on the number of times the special game is executed.

In this embodiment, when a game start command capable of identifying the variation patterns HP31 and HP32 is input, the special zone is controlled in the same manner as in the first embodiment. That is, there are cases where the special zone is controlled for a part of the period during which one special game is executed, and cases where the special zone is controlled for a part of the period during which multiple consecutive special games are executed. In other words, the execution conditions for being controlled to the special zone include a case where the special zone is executed when a special game in which the expectation of a jackpot is indicated by the execution of a special zone presentation is executed (first execution condition), and a case where the special game in which the expectation of a jackpot is indicated by the execution of a special zone presentation is suspended (second execution condition).

As described above in detail, the second embodiment has the following advantages in addition to the advantages (1) to (8) of the first embodiment.
(9) The execution conditions controlled by the special zone may be satisfied when a special game in which the expectation of a big win is indicated by the execution of the special zone effect is being executed, or may be satisfied when the execution of a special game in which the expectation of a big win is indicated by the execution of the special zone effect is being suspended. Therefore, when a special zone effect is executed, the target of the expectation of a big win indicated by the execution of the special zone effect may be the special game being executed, or the special game in which the execution is suspended. Therefore, it is possible to draw attention to the special game in which the expectation of a big win is indicated by the execution of the special zone effect, and to increase interest in the game.

(10) In particular, when the special game for which the probability of a jackpot is indicated by the execution of the special zone presentation is a special game whose execution is on hold, it is possible to heighten the expectation of a jackpot that will continue across multiple special games, thereby increasing interest in the game.

The above embodiment can be embodied in the following other embodiments (alternative examples).
In the above embodiment, when the variation patterns HP31, HP32 were determined, one of the presentation patterns EP3A to EP3D was determined, but this is not limited to the above. For example, at least one of the presentation patterns EP3A to EP3D may not be determined, and a presentation pattern other than the presentation patterns EP3A to EP3D may be determined.

- In the above embodiment, the fluctuation patterns HP31 and HP32 are fluctuation patterns in which three fluctuation cycles can be performed, but this is not limited thereto, and may be, for example, a fluctuation pattern in which two fluctuation cycles can be performed, or a fluctuation pattern in which four fluctuation cycles can be performed. Also, for example, a fluctuation pattern in which one fluctuation cycle can be performed. Also, a combination of these may be used.

- In the above embodiment, when controlled by the special zone, the performance symbols are not displayed temporarily in a continuing pattern combination, but are displayed in a small, variable size on the performance display device 27. However, this is not limited to the above, and for example, the performance symbols may be displayed temporarily in a continuing pattern combination. In other words, when controlled by the special zone, the pseudo consecutive performance may be continued or stopped.

- In the above embodiment, until a predetermined time has elapsed from the timing when the special zone is controlled, at least the same special background image is displayed regardless of the type of special zone, but this is not limited to this. For example, if a special zone entry effect, a count notification effect, an effect based on the same effect block, etc. are executed by displaying the same image regardless of the type of special zone, different types of special background images may be displayed.

- In the above embodiment, the same presentation mode is executed in each of the presentation blocks EB1, EB2, EB3, EB4A, EB4B, and EB5, but this is not limited thereto, and for example, each presentation block may be executed in a different presentation mode. In this case, for example, there may be a presentation mode with a low expectation of a jackpot and a presentation mode with a high expectation of a jackpot. Also, for example, there may be a presentation mode with a low expectation of the next presentation block and a presentation mode with a high expectation of the next presentation block. Also, for example, there may be a presentation mode with a low expectation of a jackpot for the next presentation block and a presentation mode with a high expectation of a jackpot for the next presentation block. Also, combinations of these may be used.

- In the above embodiment, for example, there may be a presentation block (a so-called "continuation suggestion presentation block") in which, after it is suggested whether or not there is a next presentation block, a presentation is executed in a presentation manner in which it is possible to identify whether or not there is a next presentation block.

- In the above embodiment, for example, even if a numeric image is not displayed for the number of effective operation controls controlled during the effective operation period, the number of effective operation controls may be displayed in a manner that makes it possible to identify the number of images indicating the number of effective operation controls.

- In the above embodiment, for example, it was possible to identify the total number of effective operation controls in one special zone and the current number of effective operation controls in one special zone, but this is not limited to this. For example, it may be possible to identify the remaining number of effective operation controls in one special zone. Also, for example, it may be a combination of these.

- In the above embodiment, an image that allows the number of effective control operations to be specified is displayed, but this is not limited thereto. For example, an image that allows the minimum number of effective control operations to be specified, such as "3 times + α", may be displayed. Also, an image that allows the maximum number of effective control operations to be specified, such as "maximum 6 times", may be displayed.

- In the above embodiment, the probability of a jackpot can be determined by adding points, but this is not limited to the above, and for example, the probability of a jackpot can be determined by subtracting points. In other words, it is sufficient that the points can be changed to a higher probability of a jackpot in response to the operation of the operation button 19, and there may also be cases where the points are changed to a lower probability of a jackpot, for example.

- In the above embodiment, when the conditions are met in response to the operation of the operation button 19 during the valid operation period, the points to be added are displayed all at once, but this is not limited to this. For example, when a rapid-fire operation is performed, the points to be added may be displayed in multiple stages by displaying the points to be added in response to one operation of the rapid-fire operation. Also, for example, when controlled to a special zone with a long control time, points may be able to be added in more stages than when controlled to a special zone with a short control time.

In the above embodiment, for example, a plurality of operation means may be provided, and a plurality of operation modes may be notified by displaying an image that prompts the user to operate one of the plurality of operation means. Also, for example, a combination of a plurality of operation means, such as the operation sequence of a cross button, may be notified as a plurality of operation modes.

- In the above embodiment, predetermined points are added in response to the operation of the operation button 19 during the valid operation period, but this is not limited to the above. For example, a predetermined lower limit of points may be added, and points equal to or greater than the lower limit may be added. Also, for example, a predetermined upper limit of points may be added, and points may be added in multiple stages until the upper limit of points is added.

In the above embodiment, for example, points may be added in accordance with the passage of time regardless of the operation of the operation button 19 .
In the above embodiment, the timing at which the special zone is controlled (entry timing) is varied depending on the type of special zone, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the timing at which the special zone ends may be varied, or a combination of these may be used.

- In the above embodiment, the execution conditions for controlling the special zone are varied depending on the type of presentation pattern determined and the type of control command referenced, but this is not limited thereto, and for example, the execution conditions for controlling the special zone may be varied depending on the type of fluctuation pattern that can be identified from the game start command. As a specific example, when a fluctuation pattern in which two fluctuation cycles may occur is determined, special zone patterns ZP1 and ZP2 may be determined, while when a fluctuation pattern in which three fluctuation cycles may occur is determined, special zone patterns ZP2 and ZP3 may be determined.

- In the above embodiment, an image that allows the remaining time controlled by the special zone to be identified was not displayed on the performance display device 27, and the remaining time controlled by the special zone could not be identified, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the remaining time controlled by the special zone may be counted, and an image that allows the remaining time to be identified may be displayed on the performance display device 27.

- In the above embodiment, the display is configured to be controlled to one of a plurality of presentation modes, and when a normal background image corresponding to the plurality of presentation modes is displayed, the display may be controlled to a special zone when controlled to a specific presentation mode. Specifically, the display may be configured to be controlled to a special zone in a presentation mode in which the display is controlled across a predetermined number of special games after being controlled from a high base state to a low base state, among the low base state presentation modes.

- In the above embodiment, the special zone is controlled in a low base state, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the special zone may be controlled in a high base state, or a combination of these may be used.

- In the above embodiment, for example, after the end of a jackpot game, a high probability state may be provided until a predetermined number of special games (e.g., 100 times) have been played.

・In the above embodiment, whether the state is controlled to a high probability state or a low probability state after the end of the jackpot game is determined based on the type of jackpot, but this is not limited to the above. For example, when the game ball that entered the large prize opening 31 during the jackpot game passes through the special passing area, the state is controlled to a high probability state after the end of the jackpot game, while when the game ball that entered the large prize opening 31 during the jackpot game does not pass through the special passing area, the state is controlled to a low probability state after the end of the jackpot game. Also, for example, there may be a jackpot in which the game ball that entered the large prize opening 31 is likely to pass through the special passing area, and a jackpot in which the game ball that entered the large prize opening 31 is unlikely to pass through the special passing area. In this case, a distribution member that distributes the game balls that entered the large prize opening 31 is provided, and the distribution mode of the distribution member is determined based on the type of jackpot. The probability that a game ball that enters the big prize opening 31 will pass through the special passing area may be controlled to vary depending on the distribution mode of the distribution member.

- In the above embodiment, a probability state and a base state are adopted as the game state, but this is not limited thereto. For example, a base state may be adopted as the game state without adopting a probability state. Also, for example, a probability state may be adopted as the game state without adopting a base state.

In the above embodiment, for example, there may be a type of jackpot that results in a low base state after the jackpot game ends.
In the above embodiment, for example, there may be both a big win and a small win.

- In the above embodiment, the second special game is executed with priority over the first special game, but this is not limited to the above, and for example, the first special game may be executed with priority over the second special game. Also, for example, the games may be executed in the order in which the game balls enter the first starting hole 28 and the second starting hole 29, and for example, the first special game and the second special game may be able to be executed simultaneously. Also, for example, there may be only one type of special game, and either the first special game or the second special game may be executed.

- In the above embodiment, the main control board 40 and the sub-control board 41 are arranged and equipped with various functions, but this is not limited to the above, and for example, the functions of one board may be equipped as functions of the other board. Also, a means for controlling the performance display device 27 may be provided separately. Also, this is not limited to these two types of boards, and for example, they may be configured as an integrated board, or three or more types of boards. As a specific example, the functions of the sub-control board 41 may be divided into an overall control board that performs overall control related to the performance, and a display control board that performs control related to the display of images.

- In the above embodiment, the type of jackpot (jackpot game) was specified by the pattern command, but the type of jackpot may also be specified by the game start command or other dedicated control command.

- In the above embodiment, various random number information related to the special game may be stored in a memory area provided according to the special reserved number. In this case, each time a special game is executed, the random number information may be shifted and stored in a memory area from which the special reserved number has been subtracted by "1."

- In the above embodiment, for example, the gaming machine may be one in which the special variable member 32 operates to the open state by a predetermined lottery, and a jackpot game is awarded when a gaming ball that has entered the large prize entrance 31 passes through a specific passing area (a so-called "type 2 gaming machine"). Also, for example, the gaming machine may be one in which a jackpot game is started when a gaming ball enters a specified ball entrance (a so-called type 3 gaming machine). Also, for example, a high probability state does not have to be awarded.

Next, the technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and other examples will be described.
In a gaming machine in which a jackpot game is awarded after a jackpot display result is displayed in a symbol variation game, the gaming machine is provided with an operation means operable by a player, and an effect execution means for executing an effect, the effect executed by the effect execution means includes a specific effect executed in a specific period during a period during which one symbol variation game is executed, the specific period includes a first specific period and a second specific period having a control time longer than the first specific period, the specific effect may be executed in the first specific period or in the second specific period, the specific effect is an effect that displays the same specific image when executed in the first specific period until a predetermined time has elapsed since control in the first specific period and when executed in the second specific period until the predetermined time has elapsed since control in the second specific period, the specific effect is an effect that displays a higher jackpot expectation rate when executed in the second specific period than when executed in the first specific period, and an effect that displays an image that allows a specific number of operation effective control times controlled during an operation effective period during which operation of the operation means is effective, a gaming machine which executes a presentation in which, when executed in a second specific period, the number of effective operation controls is likely to be greater than when executed in the first specific period, and the specific presentation is a presentation which, in addition to displaying an image which allows the number of effective operation controls to be specified, variably displays an image which indicates the likelihood of a jackpot, and, when executed in the second specific period, is more likely to change to an image which has a higher likelihood of a jackpot than when executed in the first specific period, and which is capable of executing a pseudo-consecutive presentation when the specific presentation is being executed, and the pseudo-consecutive presentation is a presentation which allows multiple unit presentations to be executed during one pattern variation game, and, when the specific presentation is executed in the second specific period, the number of times which the unit presentation is continuously executed in the pseudo-consecutive presentation which is executed when the specific presentation is being executed is greater than when the specific presentation is executed in the first specific period, and, when the unit presentation is continuously executed in the pseudo-consecutive presentation which is executed when the specific presentation is being executed, a presentation which allows for specification that the unit presentation will be continuously executed.

A1...normal actuator, A2...special actuator, A3...first performance actuator, A4...second performance actuator, KL...left movable body (movable performance means), KR...right movable body (movable performance means), SE1...first start sensor, SE2...second start sensor, SE3...special winning sensor, SE4...gate sensor, SE5...general winning sensor, 10...pachinko game machine, 17...decorative lamp, 18...speaker, 19...operation button (operation means), 20...game board, 21...game area , 22a...first special symbol display section, 22b...second special symbol display section, 27...performance display device (performance execution means), 28...first start opening, 29...second start opening, 30...normal variable member, 31...big prize opening, 32...special variable member, 33...gate, 34...general prize opening, 40...main control board, 40a...main control CPU (variation pattern determination means), 40b...main control ROM, 40c...main control RAM, 41...sub-control board, 41a...sub-control CPU, 41b...sub-control ROM, 41c...sub-control RAM.

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine in which a jackpot game is awarded after a jackpot display result is displayed in a symbol variation game,
A performance execution means for executing a performance is provided,
The effects executed by the effect execution means include specific effects executed during a specific period during which one symbol variation game is executed, and special effects that can be executed when the specific effects are started.
The specific period includes a first specific period and a second specific period having a control time longer than that of the first specific period,
The specific effect may be executed in the first specific period or in the second specific period, and when executed in the first specific period, different specific images may be displayed from when the specific effect is controlled in the first specific period until a predetermined time has elapsed, and when executed in the second specific period, different specific images may be displayed from when the specific effect is controlled in the second specific period until the predetermined time has elapsed, and when executed in the second specific period, the specific effect has a higher probability of winning than when the specific effect is executed in the first specific period.
The special effect is an effect that displays the same special image when the specific effect is executed in the first specific period and when the specific effect is executed in the second specific period,
The specific effect is an effect that changes an image showing a probability of winning, and when the specific effect is executed in the second specific period, the image is more likely to change to an image showing a higher probability of winning than when the specific effect is executed in the first specific period.
When the specific performance is being executed, a pseudo consecutive performance can be executed,
The pseudo consecutive performance is a performance in which a plurality of unit performances can be executed during one symbol variation game,
When the specific performance is executed in the second specific period, the number of times that the unit performance is executed continuously in the pseudo consecutive performance that is executed while the specific performance is being executed is greater than the number of times that the specific performance is executed in the first specific period;
When the unit performance is continuously executed in the pseudo consecutive performance performed when the specific performance is being executed, a performance that can specify that the unit performance is continuously executed is executed,
The effect that can specify that the unit effect will be continuously executed is an effect in which the symbol combination of the continuation is temporarily stopped and displayed,
The specific performance may be executed during the execution of a plurality of consecutive unit performances during the single symbol variation game,
In the case where the unit performance is executed multiple times in succession during the execution of the single pattern variation game, there are cases where the specific performance is executed during the execution of the unit performance executed first among the multiple successive unit performances and during the execution of the unit performance executed after the unit performance executed first, and cases where the specific performance is not executed during the execution of the unit performance executed first among the multiple successive unit performances, and the specific performance is executed during the execution of the unit performance executed after the unit performance executed first,
When the unit performance is executed multiple times in succession during the execution of the one symbol variation game, the specific performance can be executed across the multiple consecutive unit performances ,
The image showing the jackpot expectation displayed during the specific performance may be displayed in a changing manner across multiple consecutive unit performances.
The specific image displayed during the specific performance remains unchanged even over a plurality of consecutive unit performances .