JP7724555B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Conventionally, slot machines equipped with multiple reels with multiple symbols arranged on the outer periphery are known as gaming machines. In slot machines, the reels begin to spin when play begins, and an internal lottery is held using a lottery table. When the reels stop, the multiple reels display a symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination selected in the internal lottery. If this winning combination results in a win, processing corresponding to the winning combination is carried out, such as a medal payout process that pays out medals (game value) or a replay process that allows the player to play again without consuming any more medals.

Furthermore, some slot machines may execute an effect suggesting that a predetermined winning combination has been won in an internal lottery (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-81416

However, with gaming machines, there is a need to reduce the likelihood of players feeling uncomfortable.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a gaming machine that reduces the likelihood of players feeling uncomfortable.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises:
A plurality of reels (e.g., reels 20a to 20c) on which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged,
a plurality of stop buttons (e.g., stop buttons 26a to 26c) capable of performing a stop operation to stop the rotation of the plurality of reels;
An internal lottery means (for example, the internal lottery means 42) for performing an internal lottery to determine whether a winning combination is achieved;
reel control means (for example, reel control means 43) for controlling the stopping of the plurality of reels in a manner according to the result of the internal lottery based on the stopping operation;
A performance control means (for example, the performance control means 100) for controlling the performance,
The winning patterns obtained in the internal lottery include specific winning patterns (for example, the winning area "1 Plum 2");
The specific winning mode is a winning mode in which, when the stop button is operated to stop in a specific operation mode, a specific symbol is displayed at a predetermined display position,
the effect control means is capable of executing, at a predetermined opportunity, consecutive effects across a first game, a second game following the first game, and a third game following the second game;
The effect control means is capable of executing a first effect that suggests that the specific symbol is displayed at a predetermined display position, and a second effect that is different from the first effect,
the probability that the first effect will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game is higher than the probability that the first effect will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game, and is also higher than the probability that the first effect will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game;
The probability that the second performance will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game is higher than the probability that the second performance will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game.

For example, if a continuous performance is interrupted because a specific winning pattern is obtained during the execution of the continuous performance, the player may feel uncomfortable. The player is particularly likely to feel uncomfortable if the continuous performance is interrupted in the first half of the continuous performance. In this invention, the probability that the first performance will be executed if the specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game is higher than the probability that the first performance will be executed if the specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game, and is also higher than the probability that the first performance will be executed if the specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game. For example, the first game is a game in which continuous performances can be executed, but the probability that the first performance will be executed if the specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game is higher. This makes it possible to prevent the continuous performance from being interrupted, reducing the likelihood of the player feeling uncomfortable.

This invention reduces the likelihood of players feeling uncomfortable.

1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the front side. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the internal configuration of the housing. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the receiving tray and the cancel chute, in which (a) shows the receiving tray and the cancel chute in close proximity, and (b) shows the receiving tray and the cancel chute in a spaced apart position. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the cancel chute, in which FIG. 10A shows the cancel chute as seen from the front, and FIG. 10B shows the cancel chute as seen from the rear. FIG. 2 is a front view of the hopper unit. FIG. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the cancel chute, in which FIG. 10A is a diagram of the cancel chute seen from above, and FIG. 10B is a diagram of the cancel chute seen from the left side. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the cancel chute, in which FIG. 10A shows a perspective view of the front member of the cancel chute, and FIG. 10B shows only the rear member of the cancel chute. 10 is a diagram for explaining a cancel shot, showing a first virtual line. 10 is a diagram for explaining a cancel shot, showing a second imaginary line. 10 is a diagram for explaining a cancel shot, showing a third imaginary line. 10 is a diagram for explaining a cancel shot, showing one end of a first virtual line. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a cancel shot, showing the other end of the first virtual straight line. FIG. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example of a gaming machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from the front side. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the internal configuration of the housing. FIG. FIG. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the relationship between the reel support portion and the power supply box, in which (a) is a diagram of the housing as seen from the front, and (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in (a). FIG. 10 is a top view of the power supply box and the reel support portion of the first embodiment. FIG. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a heat dissipation port provided with a foreign object intrusion prevention portion according to the first embodiment. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating modified examples of the relationship between the hole on the rear surface of the housing, the power supply box, and the reel support portion. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to a third embodiment of the present invention. 10 is a diagram showing the arrangement of symbols on the reels. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the general configuration of the gaming machine. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the internal lottery table. 10 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the manner of stop operation when each winning area is won and the winning combination. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between winning combinations and symbol combinations. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between winning combinations and symbol combinations. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between winning combinations and symbol combinations. FIG. 10 is a state transition diagram of the game state. This is a state transition diagram of the game area and presentation state. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a case where a symbol combination indicating a winning form of a predetermined minor prize is displayed on an active line. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the effects that occur when the lever is pressed. 10 is a diagram for explaining the effects, where (a) shows the first effect (specific effect) and (b) shows the second effect. This is a diagram to explain the case where the second effect and another effect are executed in overlapping fashion. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a case where the reels stop in a specific stopping pattern in the gaming machine according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. This is a diagram to explain the first performance. This is a diagram to explain the second performance. This figure shows a case in which a pattern combination indicating a winning form of a specified minor prize is displayed on an active line in a gaming machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, where (a) shows the third minor prize and (b) shows the fifth minor prize. A state transition diagram of the game section and the presentation state in the gaming machine according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining specific navigation effects.

(First embodiment)
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that, although a slot machine, which is one type of gaming machine, will be described below, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a slot machine, but may be a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a medalless gaming machine.
In addition, in the following explanation, "front and back" basically means that when a player is in front of the slot machine, the player side is "front" and the slot machine side is "back,""up and down" means that the top side of the slot machine is "up" and the bottom side is "down," and "left and right" means that the left-hand side of the player playing the slot machine is "left" and the right-hand side is "right."
It should be noted that, within the scope of the present invention, the components may be freely combined, or any of the components may be arbitrarily modified, or any of the components may be omitted.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a slot machine 100. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the interior of the cabinet 1 of the slot machine 100. This slot machine 100 has a cabinet (gaming machine cabinet) 1. The cabinet 1 has a top panel 2, a back panel 3, a bottom panel 4, and left and right side panels 5 and 6, and is formed in a box shape with a front opening that opens to the front side of the cabinet 1. Note that the back panel 3 may be thinner than the top panel 2, bottom panel 4, and left and right side panels 5 and 6.

In the following, the underside of the top panel 2, the front side of the back panel 3, the top side of the bottom panel 4, the right side of the left side panel 5, and the left side of the right side panel 6, i.e., the surfaces of the top panel 2, back panel 3, bottom panel 4, side panel 5, or side panel 6 facing inward of the housing 1, may be referred to as the "inner surface." Also, the top side of the top panel 2, the back side of the back panel 3, the bottom side of the bottom panel 4, the left side of the left side panel 5, and the right side of the right side panel 6, i.e., the surfaces of the top panel 2, back panel 3, bottom panel 4, side panel 5, or side panel 6 facing outward of the housing 1, may be referred to as the "outer surface." The housing 1 is made of wood, synthetic resin, metal, or the like. Furthermore, the housing 1 is not limited to being made of a single material; for example, one portion (the top panel 2) may be made of wood, and the others (the back panel 3, bottom panel 4, and left and right side panels 5, 6) may be made of resin. Furthermore, the top panel 2 may be made of two types of material (resin and metal), for example.

A front door 20 is provided on the front side of the cabinet 1, closing and opening the front opening of the cabinet 1. The front door 20 is rotatably connected to the cabinet 1 via a hinge 29, allowing it to open and close the opening of the cabinet 1. The front door 20 may be divided into multiple doors, such as an upper portion (upper door) and a lower portion (lower door). The slot machine 100 may also be a so-called separate cabinet type, in which the upper portion of the front door 20 and the reel unit 14 can be replaced when replacing a model at an amusement parlor, while the cabinet 1, the lower portion of the front door 20, and the power supply unit 10 and hopper unit 11 within the cabinet 1 remain attached to the arcade's island equipment. When the front door 20 is divided into an upper door and a lower door, the upper door and the lower door can each be opened and closed freely relative to the cabinet 1. In other words, the upper door is rotatably connected via a hinge 29, allowing it to open and close the upper opening of the cabinet 1. The lower door is rotatably connected via a hinge 29 to open and close the lower opening of the housing 1.

A flat panel 21 is provided on the upper side of the front door 20. A display device (display means, liquid crystal display) is provided on the back (rear side) of the panel 21 as a presentation device. The liquid crystal display displays various images (presentation images) to assist and enhance the game.

A transparent display window (window portion) 22 is provided in the center of the front door 20. Behind the display window 22, three reels 15a-15c (see Figure 2) are arranged in a horizontal row. Portions of the reels 15a-15c are visible through the display window 22. Multiple types of symbols are arranged in a circumferential row on the outer periphery of each reel 15a-15c, and when the reels 15a-15c stop, three consecutive symbols per reel (top, middle, and bottom symbols) are displayed through the display window 22. The display window 22 has top, middle, and bottom display positions for viewing the symbols on the reels 15a-15c, and winning lines are determined by the combination of the display positions of the reels 15a-15c. In this embodiment of the gaming machine, the pay line is formed by the middle of the first reel 15a, the middle of the second reel 15b, and the middle of the third reel 15c.

In this embodiment of the gaming machine, the number of medals required for one game (prescribed number) is set to "3," and when the prescribed number of medals is inserted, the active line is activated. When the three reels 15a-15c come to a stop, the combination of symbols displayed through the display window 22 indicates whether a winning combination has been achieved. In the slot machine 100, when play begins, the reels 15a-15c begin to spin, and an internal lottery is executed to determine whether any of the winning combinations will be a win or a loss (no win). Then, when the reels 15a-15c come to a stop, if the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination selected in the internal lottery is displayed on the active line, this winning combination will be a win, and the process corresponding to the winning combination (winning process) will be executed.

The front door 20 is equipped with lighting devices (lighting means) 24, 25, speakers (sound output means), etc., which act as presentation devices for effects (alerts), etc. The lighting device 24 is provided on the upper side of the panel 21 of the front door 20. The lighting devices 25, 25 are also provided on both the left and right ends of the front door 20. Decorative members 26, which have a luminous or non-luminous three-dimensional shape and include these lighting devices 24, 25, are provided in specific parts of the front door 20, giving the front side of the gaming machine an uneven outer shape. In other words, the gaming machine is decorated with the decorative members 26.

Multiple speakers (not shown) are provided on the front door 20, for example, at the top and bottom. The speakers output various sounds (music, background music, sound effects, voice, etc.) to assist and enhance the game. In addition to the LCD display, lighting devices 24, 25, and speakers, other presentation devices may also include movable props that can be operated by actuators, etc.

An operation unit 30 for operating the slot machine 100 is provided in the vertical center of the front door 20. This operation unit 30 includes a settlement button 60 operated to settle medals (game medals, game media, game value), a start lever 32 operated to start a game, stop buttons 33 (three stop buttons 33a, 33b, 33c) operated to stop the rotation of each of the three reels 15a-15c, a medal insertion slot 34 for inserting medals, a reject button 70 operated to clear medal jams below the medal insertion slot 34, and a MAX BET button 35 (bet button) operated to bet (invest) credited medals (operated to set the maximum number of bets). In addition to the MAX BET button 35 (first bet button) operated to bet three medals (the specified number), a 1 BET button (second bet button) operated to bet one medal may also be provided. Additionally, the front door 20 is provided with a performance button 36 (performance operation unit) that is operated to progress the performance (to change the performance mode), etc.

The operation unit 30 also includes an operation panel 57 that is operated to select game effects, etc., and a display unit 58 that displays game information. The operation panel 57 is located approximately in the center of the width (left-right) of the operation unit 30, and the display unit 58 is located to the right of the medal slot 34. The operation panel 57 includes, for example, a cross key, a decision button, and a cancel button.

In addition, the bottom of the front door 20 is provided with a payout outlet 50 for discharging (sending out) medals from inside the slot machine 100, and a receiving tray 38 that can collect medals discharged (paid out) from the payout outlet 50. A lower panel 39 is provided between the operation unit 30 and the receiving tray 38 to decorate the exterior of the gaming machine. A light source (LED) for illumination is provided on the back side of this lower panel 39, and light from this light source illuminates the lower panel 39 from behind. The lower panel 39 may be formed to be pushable, and may also serve as an effect operation unit with the same function as an effect button.

As shown in Figure 2, a reel unit 14 is provided inside the cabinet 1. The reel unit 14 includes three reels 15a, 15b, and 15c, each with a number of symbols displayed around it, as well as a drive motor (stepping motor) for rotating the reels 15a to 15c. Each reel is fixed to the output shaft of the corresponding stepping motor.

Inside the cabinet 1, on the top surface of the bottom plate 4, there are provided a power supply unit (power supply means) 10 that supplies power to each component, a hopper unit (medal payout device 11) 11 (payout device) that stores medals and serves as a payout device for paying them out, and a cash box 12 from which surplus medals are dispensed when the medals stored in the medal payout device 11 reach a certain amount. Note that the unit inside the cabinet 1 with components such as the power supply unit 10 arranged inside it may also be referred to as a back box unit. The power supply unit 10 is equipped with a power switch, and when the power switch is turned on, power is supplied from the power supply unit 10 to each component. Note that power may be supplied to some components even when the power supply unit 10 is turned off.

The front door 20 is provided with a door key cylinder 66, and the front door 20 can be unlocked by inserting a door key into the door key cylinder 66. Specifically, the front door 20 can be unlocked by rotating (twisting) the door key inserted into the door key cylinder 66 clockwise from its initial position. In addition, an error can be cleared by rotating (twisting) the door key inserted into the door key cylinder 66 counterclockwise from its initial position.

When medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot 34 of the slot machine 100, the inserted medals are set to an inserted state, up to a specified number (specified insertion number). The slot machine 100 is also capable of storing (accumulating) up to 50 medals as credits, and when the MAX BET button 35 is operated while medals are stored as credits, the stored medals are set to an inserted state, up to a specified number.

When medals are inserted into the slot machine 100 through the medal slot 34 or the MAX BET button 35 is operated to bet a specified number of medals, the operation of the start lever 32 is enabled, and the machine is ready to start playing. When the enabled start lever 32 is operated, play begins. When play begins, each reel begins to spin, and when the rotation speed of each reel reaches a certain speed and begins steady rotation, the operation of the stop button 33 is enabled. When an enabled stop button 33 is operated, the rotation of the reel corresponding to the operated stop button 33 stops. When all reels have stopped, a process is performed, such as paying out medals depending on the game result or making it possible to start playing again without consuming any more medals, and one round of play is completed.

The slot machine 100 is provided with a main control board (main control means) and a sub-control board (sub-control means). The sub-control board may be provided on the rear side of the front door 20. The main control board receives input signals from input means such as the MAX BET button 35, start lever 32, and stop button 33, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls output means such as the reel unit 14 and hopper unit 11 based on the calculation results. The sub-control board also receives signals (information) sent from the main control board, performs various calculations to execute effects, and controls various effect devices such as the LCD display and speaker based on the calculation results.

The main control board and sub-control board are electrically connected, allowing the main control board to send various information (signals), such as information indicating the game status, to the sub-control board, but preventing the sub-control board from sending information to the main control board. The functions of each board, such as the main control board and sub-control board, are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, or information storage media such as ROM or RAM, or by software consisting of predetermined programs pre-stored in ROM, etc.

The main control board is provided with a setting change key cylinder (not shown) and setting change buttons (not shown). Note that the setting change key cylinder and setting change buttons may also be provided on the power supply unit 10, for example.

As shown in Figure 1, a receiving tray 38 and a dispensing opening 50 are provided at the bottom of the front door 20. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3(a), a cancel chute 40 is provided behind the receiving tray 38. Although not shown, the hopper unit 11 (Figure 2) is located behind (on the back side of) the cancel chute 40.

Figure 3(b) shows the state in which the tray 38 and the cancel chute 40 are separated. The tray 38 is formed in a generally square (rectangular) shape that is elongated in the left-right direction. The tray 38 mainly comprises a bottom 381, an edge (wall) 382 that is formed (standing) so as to surround the bottom 381, and a payout opening 50 formed in the rear edge 382. Note that in this embodiment, the tray 38 has a recessed storage section 383 that can store medals, etc., but the storage section 383 does not have to be provided. In other words, the storage section 383 may not be provided and the bottom 381 may be larger.

The edge 382 functions to prevent medals dispensed from the dispensing opening 50 from spilling out of the tray 38. The edge 382 consists of a front edge (front wall 382a) located on the front side of the bottom 381, a right edge located on the right side of the bottom 381, a left edge located on the left side of the bottom 381, and a rear edge located on the rear side of the bottom 381. In this embodiment, the height of the front edge (height from the bottom 381) is the lowest, but this height is equal to or greater than the diameter of the medal.

The cancel chute 40 is formed to have a space inside, allowing medals to pass through. The cancel chute 40 functions as a medal passage (guide passage) that guides medals that enter the interior to the receiving tray 38. In this embodiment, the cancel chute 40 is sometimes referred to as the "medal passage." The cancel chute 40 has multiple openings (described below). In other words, the cancel chute 40 has an entrance section and an exit section for medals. In this embodiment, the cancel chute 40 is composed of two members, a first member (front member) and a second member (rear member) from the front and back, but is not limited to this and may be composed of a single member, or two or more members.

The medal passage (i.e., the cancel chute 40) must be designed to allow medals to flow (pass) smoothly, in order to prevent medals from clogging within the passage. However, if the medal passage is designed in a way that prioritizes the smooth flow of medals in order to prevent medal clogging, it will become easier to commit fraud against the hopper unit 11 located at the rear (reducing fraud prevention capabilities). Furthermore, if the medal passage is designed in a complex shape in order to improve fraud prevention capabilities, it will become more difficult to ensure the smooth flow of medals, and the complex shape will also hinder the installation (positioning) of other components on the front door 20 (reducing the installation space for other components).

In this embodiment, we describe a medal passage shape that can achieve a good balance between allowing medals to flow smoothly, improving anti-fraud performance, and minimizing interference with the installation of other components.

(Second opening 402)
As shown in FIG. 3( b), a second opening 402 (receiving tray-side opening) that opens in the front-to-rear direction is provided at the lower front side of the cancel chute 40. FIG. 4( a) is a view of the cancel chute 40 as seen from the front side. The second opening 402 has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 3( a), the second opening 402 contacts the payout outlet 50 of the receiving tray 38. Note that "contacting" includes being close to and abutting the payout outlet. The second opening 402 is provided in a position corresponding to (opposing) the payout outlet 50. It can also be said that the second opening 402 and the payout outlet 50 are formed to overlap in the front-to-rear direction. The second opening 402 serves as an outlet for medals from the cancel chute 40.

The cancel chute 40 is located between the receiving tray 38 and the medal payout device 11 (Figure 2) in the front-to-rear direction, and is capable of guiding medals sent out from the medal payout device 11 to the receiving tray 38 (details will be described later).

Figure 5 is a view of the medal payout device 11 (hopper) as seen from the front. A medal payout section 111 (payout section, launch port section) is provided on the front side (front face) of the medal payout device 11. The medal payout section 111 is configured to allow medals to pass through, and medals are sent out (launched) from the medal payout section 111 when, for example, a small winning combination is achieved or when the settlement button 60 is pressed with credited medals present. The opening of the medal payout section 111 is roughly rectangular and slopes diagonally downward to the right when viewed from the front.

A peripheral wall 112 is provided around the medal payout unit 111. The peripheral wall 112 is a wall portion (a predetermined area) on the front surface of the medal payout device 11 around the medal payout unit 111. The predetermined area includes at least the area facing the first opening 401 (opening area of the first opening 401), which will be described next (for example, the area inside the dashed line Q in Figure 5). The peripheral wall 112 is a surface that is perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction.

(First opening 401)
4(b) is a view of the cancel chute 40 as seen from the rear side (back side). A first opening 401 (hopper-side opening) that opens in the front-to-rear direction is provided on the rear side of the cancel chute 40. The first opening 401 is approximately rectangular and slopes downward to the left when viewed from the rear (and downward to the right when viewed from the front). When the front door 20 is closed, the first opening 401 contacts the medal payout section 111 of the medal payout device 11. Note that "contacting" includes both being close to and abutting.

When the front door 20 is closed, the first opening 401 and the medal payout unit 111 face each other. The opening size of the first opening 401 is larger than that of the medal payout unit 111. The first opening 401 is located in a position corresponding to (opposing) the medal payout unit 111. It can also be said that the first opening 401 and the medal payout unit 111 are formed to overlap in the front-to-rear direction. The first opening 401 serves as the entrance (first entrance) for medals into the cancel chute 40.

Figure 6 is a view of the front door 20 (lower door) from the rear side. A medal selector (selector) 90 is provided below the medal insertion slot 34 (Figure 1) on the front door 20. The medal selector 90 is provided above the cancel chute 40. The medal selector 90 has the function of sorting medals inserted through the medal insertion slot 34. For example, if the inserted medal is not a legitimate medal or if the timing of inserting the medal is not appropriate, the medal selector 90 will guide the inserted medal to the cancel chute 40 below (allowing the medal to fall toward the cancel chute 40 below).

(Third opening 403)
FIG. 7(a) is a view of the cancel chute 40 as seen from above. A third opening 403 (selector-side opening) is provided on the upper side (upper right side) of the cancel chute 40. The third opening 403 is open in the vertical direction. The third opening 403 is in contact with the lower end of the medal selector 90. Note that "in contact" includes being close to the medal selector 90 and being in contact with the medal selector 90. The third opening 403 is approximately rectangular in shape. The third opening 403 serves as an entrance (second entrance) for medals into the cancel chute 40.

(Positional relationship of each opening)
7(b) is a view (left side view) of the cancel chute 40 as seen from the left side. The first opening 401 and the second opening 402 are provided at different heights (shifted heights) in the vertical direction. The first opening 401 is provided above the second opening 402.
The third opening 403 and the second opening 402 are provided at different heights in the up-down direction. The third opening 403 is provided above the second opening 402.
The first opening 401 and the third opening 403 are provided at different heights in the up-down direction. The third opening 403 is provided above the first opening 401.

Medals fired from the medal payout unit 111 of the medal payout device 11 enter the cancel chute 40 (medal passage) through the first opening 401. The cancel chute 40 then guides (leads) the medals that enter the interior through the first opening 401 forward. Medals that enter the cancel chute 40 through the first opening 401 pass through (flow down, slide) the interior of the cancel chute 40 and exit the cancel chute 40 through the second opening 402.

Furthermore, medals sent out from the medal selector 90 (that have passed through the medal selector 90) enter the interior of the cancel chute 40 via the third opening 403. The cancel chute 40 then guides (leads) the medals that have entered the interior through the third opening 403 downward. The medals that have entered the interior of the cancel chute 40 through the third opening 403 pass through the interior of the cancel chute 40 and exit the cancel chute 40 through the second opening 402.

Figure 8 (a) is a view of the cancel chute 40 from the front, with the components that make up the front side of the cancel chute 40 visible (transparent). The first opening 401 and the second opening 402 are located at different positions (offset) in the left-right direction. The first opening 401 is located to the left of the second opening 402. The third opening 403 and the second opening 402 are located at different positions (offset) in the left-right direction. The third opening 403 is located to the right of the second opening 402. The first opening 401 and the third opening 403 are located at different positions (offset) in the left-right direction.

In this embodiment, the left edge of the first opening 401 is located to the left of the left edge of the second opening 402, but the right edge of the first opening 401 is located between the left edge of the second opening 402 and the right edge of the second opening 402. When viewed from the front, the first opening 401 and the second opening 402 are offset relatively little in the left-right direction, but the offset in the up-down direction (height direction) is relatively large, so there is no overlapping area (overlapping portion) when viewed from the front. In this embodiment, the first opening 401 and the second opening 402 are located in positions where they do not overlap when viewed from the front.

The left edge of the third opening 403 is located to the right of the right edge of the second opening 402. The third opening 403 and the second opening 402 are relatively far apart in the left-right and up-down directions (height direction), and there is no overlapping area (overlapping portion) when viewed from the front. The third opening 403 and the second opening 402 have different opening directions (opening orientations). In this embodiment, the third opening 403 and the second opening 402 are located in positions where they do not overlap when viewed from the front.

The first opening 401 and the third opening 403 are offset relatively widely in the left-right and up-down directions (height direction), and there is no overlapping area (overlapping portion) when viewed from the front. The first opening 401 and the third opening 403 have different opening directions (opening orientations). In this embodiment, the first opening 401 and the third opening 403 are positioned so that they do not overlap when viewed from the front.

Figure 8 (b) shows only the components that make up the rear side of the cancel chute 40. The inner surface of the cancel chute 40 (the surface that makes up the medal passage) includes a first inclined surface 411, a second inclined surface 412, and a third inclined surface 413.

The first inclined surface 411 slopes downward in the left-right direction (a surface sloping downward to the right). The first inclined surface 411 is formed so that it can come into contact with a medal entering through the first opening 401, and when a medal comes into contact with it, it guides the medal to the lower right (second inclined surface 412).

The third inclined surface 413 slopes downward in the left-right direction (a downward-sloping surface to the left). The third inclined surface 413 is formed so that it can come into contact with a medal that enters through the third opening 403, and when a medal comes into contact with it, it guides the medal to the lower left (second inclined surface 412).

The second inclined surface 412 is located lower than the first inclined surface 411 and the third inclined surface 413. The second inclined surface 412 is inclined downward in the front-to-rear direction. In this embodiment, the second inclined surface 412 is made up of two inclined surfaces with different gradients (inclinations), with the inclination (inclination relative to the horizontal plane) of the inclined surface on the front side being greater than the inclined surface on the rear side.

The second inclined surface 412 is formed so that it can come into contact with medals falling from above, and guides the medals that come into contact with it forward (i.e., toward the second opening 402). The second inclined surface 412 is formed so that it continues to the second opening 402, and medals that travel down the slope and reach the second opening 402 are ejected from the second opening 402 to the outside (i.e., into the tray 38).

Here, the medal passage from the first opening 401 to the second opening 402 (connecting the first opening 401 and the second opening 402) is referred to as the first passage F1, and the medal passage from the third opening 403 to the second opening 402 (connecting the third opening 403 and the second opening 402) is referred to as the second passage F2.

The first passage F1 has a shape that allows the direction in which the medals move (traveling direction) to be changed. It can also be said that the first passage F1 has at least one bent portion. In other words, the first passage F1 is crank-shaped.
The second passage F2 has a shape that allows the direction in which the medals move (traveling direction) to be changed. It can also be said that the second passage F2 has at least one bent portion. In other words, the second passage F2 is crank-shaped.

The first passage F1 leading from the first opening 401 to the second opening 402 is a passage that, as shown by the arrow F1, proceeds from the rear to the front, turns at a bend (first bend) to proceed to the right (lower right side), and then turns at the next bend (second bend) to proceed to the front (lower front side).
A medal launched from the rear to the front through the first opening 401 may collide with the flat front surface of the passage (the surface marked with the symbol P in FIG. 12 ). A metal plate (a buffer member) may be placed on the front surface where the medal collides to cushion the impact of the medal collision. In other words, a portion of the (inner surface of) the medal passage may be formed from a metal plate. By placing a metal plate, it is possible to prevent the inner surface of the passage from being deformed or damaged by the impact of the medal. The metal plate may be, for example, a stainless steel plate with a thickness of approximately 0.4 mm. Rubber (elastic material) may be used as a buffer member instead of a metal plate.
In the above description, it has been described that a medal launched from the rear to the front collides with a flat front surface within the passageway, but this is not limiting, and the medal may also collide with a curved front surface within the passageway. In other words, the front surface may be curved. A curved surface may be, for example, a shape that is concave (recessed) toward the front. When the front surface that the medal collides with is curved, the impact of the medal collision is mitigated compared to when it is flat. This allows the medal to be guided more smoothly into the tray 38.

The second passage F2, which runs from the third opening 403 to the second opening 402, is a passage that, as shown by arrow F2, proceeds from top to bottom, turns at a bend (third bend) to proceed to the left (lower left), and then turns at the next bend (second bend) to proceed forward (lower front).

The passage from the third opening 403 to the first opening 401 is referred to as the third passage F3. Although not shown, the third passage F3 has at least one bend, similar to the first passage F1 and the second passage F2.

If the first passage F1 and the second passage F2 were straight (without any bends) and not shaped to change the direction in which the medals travel, it would be easy for a player to insert a tool (rod-shaped member) or the like to commit fraud (pranks). In this embodiment, as described above, the first passage F1 and the second passage F2 are shaped to change the direction in which the medals travel (because they have bends), making it difficult for a player to insert a tool (member) or the like. This improves anti-fraud performance. Note that improving anti-fraud performance also includes reducing the risk of components being damaged by the insertion of a tool or the like.

Here, as shown in Figure 9, a virtual line that passes through (goes through) the first opening 401 and the second opening 402 is referred to as a first virtual line X. In this embodiment, it is possible to draw (draw) the first virtual line X without contacting the inner surface of the medal passage (first passage F1). In other words, the first virtual line X is a line that can be drawn without contacting the inner surface of the medal passage. In yet other words, it is possible to connect the first opening 401 and the second opening 402 with a line (first virtual line X) that does not contact the inner surface of the medal passage.
With this configuration, the medal passage (first passage F1) has a shape (a shape with a linearly communicating space) that allows the first imaginary straight line X to be drawn without contacting the inner surface of the medal passage, thereby enabling smooth passage (payout) of medals. Furthermore, compared to a medal passage (first passage) with a shape so complex that it is impossible to draw the first imaginary straight line X, this simple shape prevents it from interfering with the installation of other components.

As shown in FIG. 10 , a virtual line that passes through (goes through) the first opening 401 and the third opening 403 is referred to as the third virtual line Z. In this embodiment, it is impossible to draw (draw) the third virtual line Z without it coming into contact with the inner surface of the medal passage (third passage F3). In other words, the third virtual line Z is a line that cannot be drawn without coming into contact with the inner surface of the medal passage. In yet other words, it is impossible to connect the first opening 401 and the third opening 403 with a line (third virtual line Z) that does not come into contact with the inner surface of the medal passage. It can also be said that the third virtual line Z comes into contact with the inner surface of the medal passage (the inner surface of the medal passage exists on this line).
With this configuration, the medal passage (third passage F3) is shaped in such a way that it is not possible to draw the third imaginary line Z, making it difficult to access the first opening 401 (medal payout section 111) by inserting a tool (rod-shaped member) or the like through the third opening 403. This improves fraud prevention capabilities.
In addition, since the shape of the cancel chute 40 does not allow the third virtual straight line Z to be drawn (because it is not linear), irregular movement of medals that enter the cancel chute 40 from the third opening 403 and flow down toward the first opening 401 can be prevented.

As shown in FIG. 11 , a virtual line that passes through (goes through) the second opening 402 and the third opening 403 is referred to as the second virtual line Y. In this embodiment, it is impossible to draw (draw) the second virtual line Y without it coming into contact with the inner surface of the medal passage (second passage F2). In other words, the second virtual line Y is a line that cannot be drawn without coming into contact with the inner surface of the medal passage. In yet other words, it is impossible to connect the second opening 402 and the third opening 403 with a line (second virtual line Y) that does not come into contact with the inner surface of the medal passage. It can also be said that the second virtual line Y comes into contact with the inner surface of the medal passage (the inner surface of the medal passage exists on this line).
With this configuration, the medal passage (second passage F2) is shaped in such a way that the second virtual line Y cannot be drawn, making it difficult to insert a tool (rod-shaped member) or the like through the second opening 402 to access the third opening 403 (medal selector 90). This improves fraud prevention capabilities.

In this embodiment, medals pass through the first passage F1 more frequently than through the second passage F2. The first passage F1 has a shape that allows the first imaginary line X to be drawn, taking into account the high frequency of medals passing through it, while also providing stronger fraud prevention measures, allowing medals to pass smoothly. On the other hand, the second passage F2 has a shape that makes it impossible to draw the second imaginary line Y, as medals pass through it less frequently.

12 , the front end (near side) of the first imaginary line X is defined as one end X1 (one end). The first imaginary line X can be drawn so that the one end X1 comes into contact with the bottom 381 of the tray 38 without coming into contact with the front edge (front wall 382 a) of the tray 38. In other words, the first imaginary line X is a line that can come into contact with the bottom 381 of the tray 38 without coming into contact with the front wall 382 a of the tray 38.
With this configuration, one end X1 contacts the bottom 381 instead of the front wall 382a, so that medals that pass through the medal passage contact the bottom 381 instead of the front wall 382a. This more reliably prevents medals from climbing over the front wall 382a and spilling out of the tray 38.
Furthermore, when one end X1 comes into contact with the bottom 381 (when X1 is temporarily positioned further back) than when it comes into contact with the front wall 382a, the bottom 381 becomes an obstacle, making it more difficult to insert a tool (rod-shaped member) or the like into the first passage from the front side. This improves anti-fraud performance.

As shown in Figure 13, the rear end (deeper side) of the first imaginary straight line X is the other end X2 (other end). The first imaginary straight line X can be drawn so that the other end X2 comes into contact with the peripheral wall 112 (Figure 5) without coming into contact with the medal payout section 111 of the medal payout device 11. In other words, the first imaginary straight line X is a line that can come into contact with the peripheral wall 112 without coming into contact with the medal payout section 111 of the medal payout device 11.
With this configuration, the other end X2 comes into contact with the peripheral wall 112 rather than the medal payout section 111, so even if an implement (rod-shaped member) or the like is inserted into the first passage F1, it is difficult for the tip of the implement to come into contact with (access) the medal payout section 111 (or for the tip of the implement to be inserted into) the medal payout section 111. This further improves fraud prevention capabilities.

(Component G)
Here, a rod-shaped member having a predetermined diameter (e.g., approximately 5 mm) and a predetermined length is defined as member G. The predetermined length is, for example, a length longer than the linear distance from the third opening 403 to the second opening 402.

When the front door 20 is open and a component G is inserted into the first opening 401 from the rear side, the component G can be inserted into the first passage F1 without coming into contact with the inner surface of the first passage F1, and the tip of the component G coming out of the second opening 402 comes into contact with the bottom 381 of the receiving tray 38.
Furthermore, when the front door 20 is closed and the receiving tray 38 is not present, if a member G is inserted into the second opening 402, the member G can be inserted into the first passage F1 without coming into contact with the inner surface of the first passage F1, and the tip of the member G protruding from the first opening 401 comes into contact with the peripheral wall 112 of the medal payout device 11. In reality, however, it is difficult to insert the member G into the first passage F1 from the front side because the presence of the receiving tray 38 acts as an obstacle.

Furthermore, when the front door 20 is open and a member G is inserted into the third opening 403 on the rear side, the tip of the member G cannot be ejected from the second opening 402. In other words, the member G cannot be inserted into the second passage F2.
Furthermore, when the front door 20 is closed and the receiving tray 38 is not present, if the member G is inserted into the second opening 402, the tip of the member G cannot be ejected from the third opening 403. In other words, the member G cannot be inserted into the second passage F2.
Furthermore, when the front door 20 is open and a member G is inserted into the third opening 403 on the rear side, the tip of the member G cannot be ejected from the first opening 401. In other words, the member G cannot be inserted into the third passage F3.

In this embodiment, when the front door 20 is open and one attempts to view (look into) the second opening 402 (tray-side opening) from the first opening 401 (hopper-side opening), the bottom 381 of the tray 38 is visible, and the front wall 382a of the tray 38 is visible, but the top of the front wall 382a is not visible. Also, when the front door 20 is open and one attempts to view the second opening 402 (tray-side opening) from the first opening 401 (hopper-side opening), the bottom 381 of the tray 38 is visible, but the front wall 382a may not be visible. This allows for smooth passage of gaming value.
As a variant, when the front door 20 is open and an attempt is made to view the second opening 402 (receiving tray side opening) from the first opening 401 (hopper side opening), neither the bottom 381 nor the front wall 382a of the receiving tray 38 may be visible.

The gaming machine of this embodiment is
A gaming machine including a cabinet (for example, cabinet 1) and a front door (for example, front door 20),
The housing includes a hopper (e.g., a hopper unit 11),
The front door includes a receiving tray (e.g., a receiving tray 38) and a guide passage (e.g., a cancel chute 40),
The hopper includes a launch port (e.g., a medal payout port 111) from which game value is launched, and a peripheral wall portion (e.g., a peripheral wall portion 112) of the launch port,
The tray includes a bottom (e.g., bottom 381) and a front wall (e.g., front wall 382a) provided on the front side of the bottom,
The guide passage includes a hopper-side opening (e.g., a first opening 401) and a tray-side opening (e.g., a second opening 402),
If the passage from the hopper-side opening to the tray-side opening is a first passage (for example, a first passage F1),
The first passage is capable of guiding the game value shot from the shot port portion to the tray,
The first passage has a shape that can change the direction in which the game value advances,
If a virtual line passing through the hopper-side opening and the tray-side opening is a first virtual line (for example, a first virtual line X),
The first imaginary straight line is a line that can be drawn without contacting the inner surface of the first passage.
With this configuration, the first passage is shaped to be able to change the direction in which the game value advances, making it difficult for a player to insert a device or the like. This improves the anti-fraud performance. In other words, it reduces the risk of damage to parts due to the insertion of a device or the like.
Furthermore, the first passage is capable of drawing the first virtual straight line without contacting the inner surface of the first passage. This allows for smooth passage of the gaming value. Furthermore, the first passage has a simpler shape than when the first passage is so complex that the first virtual straight line cannot be drawn. This prevents the first passage from interfering with the installation of other components.

In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment,
The first imaginary straight line is a line that can be depicted so that one end (for example, one end X1) contacts the bottom portion and the other end (for example, other end X2) contacts the peripheral wall portion.
With this configuration, the gaming coins that pass through the guide passage come into contact with the bottom, not the front wall. This more reliably prevents the gaming coins from climbing over the front wall and spilling out of the tray. Furthermore, because the bottom acts as an obstacle, it becomes more difficult to insert a device or the like into the first passage from the front side. This further improves fraud prevention capabilities.
Furthermore, even if an implement or the like is inserted into the first passage, its tip will contact the surrounding wall, not the launch port. This makes it difficult for the tip to contact (access) the launch port (or insert into) the launch port. This further improves anti-tamper performance.

In addition, the gaming machine of this embodiment has
The front door further includes a selector (e.g., a medal selector 90).
The guide passage further includes a selector-side opening (e.g., a third opening 403),
If the passage from the selector-side opening to the tray-side opening is designated as a second passage (e.g., second passage F2),
the second passage is capable of guiding the gaming value sent from the selector to the receiving tray;
The second passage has a shape that can change the direction in which the game value advances,
If a virtual line passing through the tray-side opening and the selector-side opening is a second virtual line (for example, a second virtual line Y),
The second imaginary straight line is a line that cannot be drawn without contacting the inner surface of the second passage.
With this configuration, the second passage cannot draw the second imaginary line without contacting the inner surface of the second passage. This makes it difficult to insert a tool or the like through the tray-side opening to access the selector-side opening (selector). This improves fraud prevention capabilities.

In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment,
a passage from the selector-side opening to the hopper-side opening is designated as a third passage (for example, a third passage F3);
If a virtual line passing through the selector-side opening and the hopper-side opening is a third virtual line (for example, a third virtual line Z),
The third imaginary straight line is a line that cannot be drawn without contacting the inner surface of the third passage.
With this configuration, the third passage cannot draw the third imaginary line without contacting the inner surface of the third passage. This makes it difficult to insert a tool or the like through the selector-side opening to access the hopper-side opening (launch port), for example. This improves anti-fraud performance.
In addition, the third passage has a shape that makes it impossible to depict the third virtual straight line (because it is not linear), so that irregular movement of the game value that has entered the guide passage from the selector side opening and flows down toward the hopper side opening can be prevented.

Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that, although the following description will be directed to a slot machine, which is one type of gaming machine, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a slot machine, but may also be a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a medalless gaming machine.
In addition, in the following explanation, "front and back" basically means that when a player is in front of the slot machine, the player side is "front" and the slot machine side is "back,""up and down" means that the top side of the slot machine is "up" and the bottom side is "down," and "left and right" means that the left-hand side of the player playing the slot machine is "left" and the right-hand side is "right."
It should be noted that, within the scope of the present invention, the components may be freely combined, or any of the components may be arbitrarily modified, or any of the components may be omitted.

Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a slot machine 100. Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the interior of the cabinet 1 of the slot machine 100. This slot machine 100 has a cabinet (gaming machine cabinet) 1. The cabinet 1 has a top panel 2, a back panel 3, a bottom panel 4, and left and right side panels 5, 6, and is formed in a box shape with a front opening that opens to the front side of the cabinet 1. Note that the back panel 3 may be thinner than the top panel 2, bottom panel 4, and left and right side panels 5, 6.

In the following, the underside of the top panel 2, the front side of the back panel 3, the top side of the bottom panel 4, the right side of the left side panel 5, and the left side of the right side panel 6, i.e., the surfaces of the top panel 2, back panel 3, bottom panel 4, side panel 5, or side panel 6 facing inward of the housing 1, may be referred to as the "inner surface." Also, the top side of the top panel 2, the back side of the back panel 3, the bottom side of the bottom panel 4, the left side of the left side panel 5, and the right side of the right side panel 6, i.e., the surfaces of the top panel 2, back panel 3, bottom panel 4, side panel 5, or side panel 6 facing outward of the housing 1, may be referred to as the "outer surface." The housing 1 is made of wood, synthetic resin, metal, or the like. Furthermore, the housing 1 is not limited to being made of a single material; for example, one portion (the top panel 2) may be made of wood, and the others (the back panel 3, bottom panel 4, and left and right side panels 5, 6) may be made of resin. Furthermore, the top panel 2 may be made of two types of material (resin and metal), for example.

A front door 20 is provided on the front side of the cabinet 1, closing and opening the front opening of the cabinet 1. The front door 20 is rotatably connected to the cabinet 1 via a hinge 29, allowing it to open and close the opening of the cabinet 1. The front door 20 may be divided into multiple doors, such as an upper portion (upper door) and a lower portion (lower door). The slot machine 100 may also be a so-called separate cabinet type, in which the upper portion of the front door 20 and the reel unit 14 can be replaced when replacing a model at an amusement parlor, while the cabinet 1, the lower portion of the front door 20, and the power supply unit 10 and hopper unit 11 within the cabinet 1 remain attached to the arcade's island equipment. When the front door 20 is divided into an upper door and a lower door, the upper door and the lower door can each be opened and closed freely relative to the cabinet 1. In other words, the upper door is rotatably connected via a hinge 29, allowing it to open and close the upper opening of the cabinet 1. The lower door is rotatably connected via a hinge 29 to open and close the lower opening of the housing 1.

A flat panel 21 is provided on the upper side of the front door 20. A display device (display means, liquid crystal display) is provided on the back (rear side) of the panel 21 as a presentation device. The liquid crystal display displays various images (presentation images) to assist and enhance the game.

A transparent display window (window portion) 22 is provided in the center of the front door 20. Behind the display window 22, three reels 15a to 15c (see Figure 15) are arranged in a horizontal row. Portions of the reels 15a to 15c are visible through the display window 22. Multiple types of symbols are arranged in a circumferential row on the outer periphery of each reel 15a to 15c, and when the reels 15a to 15c stop, three consecutive symbols per reel (top, middle, and bottom symbols) are displayed through the display window 22. The display window 22 has top, middle, and bottom display positions for viewing the symbols on the reels 15a to 15c, and winning lines are determined by the combination of the display positions of the reels 15a to 15c. In this embodiment of the gaming machine, the pay line is formed by the middle of the first reel 15a, the middle of the second reel 15b, and the middle of the third reel 15c.

In this embodiment of the gaming machine, the number of medals required for one game (prescribed number) is set to "3," and when the prescribed number of medals is inserted, the active line is activated. When the three reels 15a-15c come to a stop, the combination of symbols displayed through the display window 22 indicates whether a winning combination has been achieved. In the slot machine 100, when play begins, the reels 15a-15c begin to spin, and an internal lottery is executed to determine whether any of the winning combinations will be a win or a loss (no win). Then, when the reels 15a-15c come to a stop, if the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination selected in the internal lottery is displayed on the active line, this winning combination will be a win, and the process corresponding to the winning combination (winning process) will be executed.

The front door 20 is equipped with lighting devices (lighting means) 24, 25, speakers (sound output means), etc., which act as presentation devices for effects (alerts), etc. The lighting device 24 is provided on the upper side of the panel 21 of the front door 20. The lighting devices 25, 25 are also provided on both the left and right ends of the front door 20. Decorative members 26, which have a luminous or non-luminous three-dimensional shape and include these lighting devices 24, 25, are provided in specific parts of the front door 20, giving the front side of the gaming machine an uneven outer shape. In other words, the gaming machine is decorated with the decorative members 26.

Multiple speakers (not shown) are provided on the front door 20, for example, at the top and bottom. The speakers output various sounds (music, background music, sound effects, voice, etc.) to assist and enhance the game. In addition to the LCD display, lighting devices 24, 25, and speakers, other presentation devices may also include movable props that can be operated by actuators, etc.

An operation unit 30 for operating the slot machine 100 is provided in the vertical center of the front door 20. This operation unit 30 includes a settlement button 60 operated to settle medals (game medals, game media, game value), a start lever 32 operated to start a game, stop buttons 33 (three stop buttons 33a, 33b, 33c) operated to stop the rotation of each of the three reels 15a-15c, a medal insertion slot 34 for inserting medals, a reject button 70 operated to clear medal jams below the medal insertion slot 34, and a MAX BET button 35 (bet button) operated to bet (invest) credited medals (operated to set the maximum number of bets). In addition to the MAX BET button 35 (first bet button) operated to bet three medals (the specified number), a 1 BET button (second bet button) operated to bet one medal may also be provided. Additionally, the front door 20 is provided with a performance button 36 (performance operation unit) that is operated to progress the performance (to change the performance mode), etc.

The operation unit 30 also includes an operation panel 57 that is operated to select game effects, etc., and a display unit 58 that displays game information. The operation panel 57 is located approximately in the center of the width (left-right) of the operation unit 30, and the display unit 58 is located to the right of the medal slot 34. The operation panel 57 includes, for example, a cross key, a decision button, and a cancel button.

In addition, the bottom of the front door 20 is provided with a payout outlet 50 for discharging (sending out) medals from inside the slot machine 100, and a receiving tray 38 that can collect medals discharged (paid out) from the payout outlet 50. A lower panel 39 is provided between the operation unit 30 and the receiving tray 38 to decorate the exterior of the gaming machine. A light source (LED) for illumination is provided on the back side of this lower panel 39, and light from this light source illuminates the lower panel 39 from behind. The lower panel 39 may be formed to be pushable, and may also serve as an effect operation unit with the same function as an effect button.

As shown in Figure 15, a reel unit 14 is provided inside the cabinet 1. The reel unit 14 includes three reels 15a, 15b, and 15c, each with a number of symbols displayed around it, as well as a drive motor (stepping motor) for rotating the reels 15a to 15c. Each reel is fixed to the output shaft of the corresponding stepping motor.

Inside the cabinet 1, on the top surface of the bottom plate 4, there are provided a power supply unit (power supply means) 10 that supplies power to each component, a hopper unit (medal payout device 11) 11 (payout device) that stores medals and serves as a payout device for paying them out, and a cash box 12 from which surplus medals are dispensed when the medals stored in the medal payout device 11 reach a certain amount. Note that the unit inside the cabinet 1 with components such as the power supply unit 10 arranged inside it may also be referred to as a back box unit. The power supply unit 10 is equipped with a power switch, and when the power switch is turned on, power is supplied from the power supply unit 10 to each component. Note that power may be supplied to some components even when the power supply unit 10 is turned off.

The front door 20 is provided with a door key cylinder 66, and the front door 20 can be unlocked by inserting a door key into the door key cylinder 66. Specifically, the front door 20 can be unlocked by rotating (twisting) the door key inserted into the door key cylinder 66 clockwise from its initial position. In addition, an error can be cleared by rotating (twisting) the door key inserted into the door key cylinder 66 counterclockwise from its initial position.

When medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot 34 of the slot machine 100, the inserted medals are set to an inserted state, up to a specified number (specified insertion number). The slot machine 100 is also capable of storing (accumulating) up to 50 medals as credits, and when the MAX BET button 35 is operated while medals are stored as credits, the stored medals are set to an inserted state, up to a specified number.

When medals are inserted into the slot machine 100 through the medal slot 34 or the MAX BET button 35 is operated to bet a specified number of medals, the operation of the start lever 32 is enabled, and the machine is ready to start playing. When the enabled start lever 32 is operated, play begins. When play begins, each reel begins to spin, and when the rotation speed of each reel reaches a certain speed and begins steady rotation, the operation of the stop button 33 is enabled. When an enabled stop button 33 is operated, the rotation of the reel corresponding to the operated stop button 33 stops. When all reels have stopped, a process is performed, such as paying out medals depending on the game result or making it possible to start playing again without consuming any more medals, and one round of play is completed.

The slot machine 100 is provided with a main control board (main control means) and a sub-control board (sub-control means). The sub-control board may be provided on the rear side of the front door 20. The main control board receives input signals from input means such as the MAX BET button 35, start lever 32, and stop button 33, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls output means such as the reel unit 14 and hopper unit 11 based on the calculation results. The sub-control board also receives signals (information) sent from the main control board, performs various calculations to execute effects, and controls various effect devices such as the LCD display and speaker based on the calculation results.

The main control board and sub-control board are electrically connected, allowing the main control board to send various information (signals), such as information indicating the game status, to the sub-control board, but preventing the sub-control board from sending information to the main control board. The functions of each board, such as the main control board and sub-control board, are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, or information storage media such as ROM or RAM, or by software consisting of predetermined programs pre-stored in ROM, etc.

The main control board is provided with a setting change key cylinder (not shown) and setting change buttons (not shown). Note that the setting change key cylinder and setting change buttons may also be provided on the power supply unit 10, for example.

As shown in Figure 15, the power supply unit 10 is located at the bottom left rear side (side panel 5 side) inside the housing 1. The power supply unit 10 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box, and is longer in the depth direction (front-to-back direction) than in the width direction (left-to-right direction). Hereinafter, the top surface of the power supply unit 10 will be referred to as the top surface 10a.

16 is a perspective view of the power supply unit 10. The power supply unit 10 includes a power supply board (not shown) on which multiple components are arranged, a power supply case 91 that covers the power supply board, a power switch (not shown) that can turn the power supply (power supply board) ON or OFF, a power switch cover 92 that can be opened and closed and covers the power switch, a front panel 93, and a connector 94. In this embodiment, the connector 94 includes a first connector 94a and a second connector 94b. The power supply unit 10, which includes the power supply board, can be referred to as a board unit. A power cable (not shown) is connected to the power supply unit 10, and the power cable is connected to an outlet that supplies commercial power (AC 100V). The power supply board generates DC power (e.g., 5V, 12V, 24V, etc.) from power sent from outside the gaming machine via the power cable, and supplies power to each component of the gaming machine.

In this embodiment, the power supply case 91 is made of metal. A plurality of heat dissipation ports 95 (heat dissipation holes) are provided at predetermined intervals on the top surface 10a of the power supply case 91. In this embodiment, the heat dissipation ports 95 are elongated holes (slots) that are long in the front-to-rear direction. The shape of the heat dissipation ports 95 may be approximately rectangular or approximately oval. Furthermore, the heat dissipation ports 95 may be elongated in the left-to-right direction rather than in the front-to-rear direction.

The heat dissipation vents 95 are provided to release heat generated inside the power supply unit 10 (to achieve a heat dissipation effect). Therefore, the more heat dissipation vents 95 are provided, the greater the heat dissipation effect can be. Furthermore, heat dissipation efficiency can be improved by providing the heat dissipation vents 95 on the top surface 10a of the power supply unit 10 rather than on the side surfaces of the power supply unit 10.

In addition, an opening is provided on the top surface 10a of the power supply unit 10 to expose the connector 94, and the connector 94 is exposed from this opening. Although not shown in the figure, a mating connector is connected to the connector 94.

As shown in FIG. 15 , a plate-shaped reel support portion 13 (center base, middle plate, sheet metal member) is provided in approximately the center in the vertical direction inside the casing 1. The reel support portion 13 is fixed to the inner surface of the casing 1 (the inner surface of the side plate) by screwing or the like. A reel unit 14 is disposed (placed) on the reel support portion 13. In other words, the reel support portion 13 supports the reel unit 14. The reel support portion 13 is made of, for example, metal.

Figure 17 is a diagram showing the reel support portion 13 (support portion). At least a portion of the reel support portion 13 is hollowed out (removed). In other words, the reel support portion 13 has at least one hollowed-out portion that penetrates in the vertical direction. The hollowed-out portion may be a hole (through-hole) or a notch. By providing the hollowed-out portion while maintaining rigidity, the reel support portion 13 can be made lighter and less expensive.

In this embodiment, at least one cutout is provided above the power supply unit 10 (top surface 10a). In other words, the power supply unit 10 (top surface 10a) is disposed below a predetermined cutout in the reel support portion 13. If the area of the reel support portion 13 facing the top surface 10a of the power supply unit 10 is defined as a specific area, then at least one cutout is provided in that specific area.

The dashed lines in Figure 17 indicate that the top surface 10a has been moved upward by a predetermined distance. In this embodiment, four cutouts, cutout 131, cutout 132, cutout 133, and cutout 134, are provided above the power supply unit 10 (top surface 10a). Cutouts 131 and 132 are rectangular notches. Cutouts 133 and 134 are circular through-holes.

While cutouts 133 and 134 are cutouts that do not have an insertion member, cutouts 131 and 132 are cutouts that have an insertion member. A more detailed explanation follows. Figure 18(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in Figure 18(a).

(Cutout portion 131)
The cutout 131 is formed on the left end of the reel support portion 13. As shown in FIG. 15 , handles 200 are provided on the side surfaces (both side surfaces) of the casing 1. In this embodiment, the handles 200 and the reel support portion 13 are provided at approximately the same height in the vertical direction (height direction) (see FIG. 18( a)). As shown in FIG. 18( b), the handles 200 bulge outward toward the inside of the casing 1 by a predetermined length, and this portion fits into the cutout 131. In other words, the handles 200 as an insertion member are inserted (in the vertical direction) into the cutout 131. The cutout 131 is blocked by an insertion member (a shielding member) (another member is present). The cutout 131 prevents interference between the reel support portion 13 and the handles 200. In this embodiment, the insertion member refers to a member that passes through a hole (a cutout).

(Cutout portion 132)
The cutout 132 is formed on the left side (corner) of the rear end of the reel support portion 13. Although not shown (simplified), a harness (harness group) serving as an insertion member is inserted (in the vertical direction) through the cutout 132. The cutout 132 is blocked by an insertion member (shielding member) (another member is present). The provision of the cutout 132 makes it possible to guide the harness extending from the power supply unit 10 upward. The harness may be connected to the reel unit 14 or to the main control board, for example.

(Cutout portion 133 and cutout portion 134)
No member is inserted through the cutout portion 133 and the cutout portion 134. In other words, the cutout portion 133 and the cutout portion 134 are not blocked by an insertion member (shielding member). The cutout portion 133 and the cutout portion 134 are not holes provided for inserting a member therethrough.

Hereinafter, cutout portion 133 and cutout portion 134, which do not have an insertion member, will be referred to as first cutout portion 135 (through cutout portion), and cutout portion 131 and cutout portion 132, which have an insertion member, will be referred to as second cutout portion 136 (non-through cutout portion). Note that the number of cutout portions constituting first cutout portion 135 and second cutout portion 136 is not limited to this.

For example, when installing the cabinet 1 on an island in an amusement facility, there is a possibility that screws, iron filings, etc. may fall downward from inside the cabinet 1. If the heat dissipation vent 95 of the power supply unit 10 is located below (vertically downward from) the cutout in the reel support section 13, foreign matter (falling objects) such as screws or iron filings may pass through the cutout and then through the heat dissipation vent 95, entering the power supply unit 10 and potentially damaging it.

FIG. 19 is a diagram (viewed from above) for explaining the positional relationship between the top surface 10 a of the power supply unit 10 and the reel support portion 13 , with the reel support portion 13 seen through.
In this embodiment, (1) no heat dissipation port 95 is provided below the first cutout 135. In other words, when viewed from above (vertically), the cutout without an insertion member and the heat dissipation port 95 are located in positions that do not overlap. Therefore, even if a foreign object falls from above and passes through the first cutout 135, the foreign object will not pass further through the heat dissipation port 95. (2) On the other hand, the heat dissipation port 95 is provided below the second cutout 136. In other words, when viewed from above (vertically), the cutout with an insertion member and the heat dissipation port 95 are located in positions that overlap. Even if a foreign object falls from above, the presence of an insertion member in the second cutout 136 makes it unlikely that the foreign object will pass through the cutout. Therefore, by providing the heat dissipation port 95 below the second cutout 136 with an insertion member, the heat dissipation efficiency of the power supply unit 10 can be improved.

The gaming machine of this embodiment is
a housing (e.g., housing 1);
a board unit (e.g., power supply unit 10);
a reel unit (e.g., reel unit 14);
a support portion (e.g., a reel support portion 13) that supports the reel unit,
the support portion is provided above the substrate unit,
A plurality of heat dissipation ports (e.g., heat dissipation ports 95) are provided on the top surface (e.g., top surface 10a) of the substrate unit,
The support portion has at least one recessed portion,
The cutout portion includes a first cutout portion (e.g., first cutout portion 135) through which no member is inserted,
When viewed from above, the first cutout portion and the heat dissipation port are provided at positions where they do not overlap.

Even if a foreign object such as a screw or iron powder falls from above, the foreign object can pass through the first cutout, where there is no insertion member, and then through the heat dissipation vent, preventing it from entering the interior of the board unit. This reduces damage to the board unit (components).

In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment,
The recessed portion has a second recessed portion (e.g., second recessed portion 136) through which a member to be inserted is present,
The heat dissipation port is provided below the second cutout portion.

The second cutout section has a penetration member, making it difficult for foreign objects to pass through. Therefore, by providing a heat dissipation port below the second cutout section, the number of heat dissipation ports can be increased, improving heat dissipation efficiency. This prevents damage to components (electronic components, etc.) caused by high temperatures inside the board unit.

As shown in FIG. 19 , the top surface 10a of the power supply unit 10 has a first area A and a second area B in the vertical direction that overlap with the cutouts of the reel support portion 13. The first area A is the area that overlaps (faces) the first cutout portion 135. The second area B is the area that overlaps (faces) the second cutout portion 136. No foreign object (dust) intrusion prevention members (insertion members, foreign object intrusion prevention members, shielding members) are provided above the first area A, but foreign object intrusion prevention members are provided above the second area B. Examples of foreign object intrusion prevention members include a handle 200, a harness, and other members. The first area A does not have a heat dissipation port 95. On the other hand, the second area B has a heat dissipation port 95.

In the gaming machine of this embodiment,
The cutout portion includes a first cutout portion (e.g., first cutout portion 135) in which no member to be inserted is present, and a second cutout portion (e.g., second cutout portion 136) in which a member to be inserted is present,
The top surface has a first area (e.g., first area A) facing the first cutout portion and a second area (e.g., second area B) facing the second cutout portion,
No foreign object intrusion prevention member is provided above the first range, but a foreign object intrusion prevention member is provided above the second range,
The first area is not provided with the heat dissipation opening, but the second area is provided with the heat dissipation opening.
By providing a heat dissipation port in the second range where the foreign object intrusion prevention member is present above and where the possibility of foreign objects falling is low, the heat dissipation efficiency of the board unit can be improved.

As shown in Figure 20, the back panel 3 of the housing 1 has a through-hole 3a (hole 3a) that penetrates in the front-to-rear direction. This through-hole 3a is located above the reel support portion 13. The through-hole 3a may be a hole for heat dissipation, or may be a hole for passing a cable (power cable) through.

As shown in Figure 20, a line drawn in the vertical direction that passes through the first cutout 135 (a line perpendicular to the bottom surface) is defined as the first imaginary line X. A line drawn in the vertical direction that passes through the heat dissipation port 95 is defined as the second imaginary line Y. When viewed from the front, the through hole 3a is located (present) on the first imaginary line X. On the other hand, when viewed from the front, the through hole 3a is not located (present) on the second imaginary line Y. The through hole 3a and the heat dissipation port 95 are positioned at offset positions in the depth direction (front-to-back direction on the page), and are also positioned at offset positions in the left-right direction.

In the gaming machine of this embodiment,
The housing has a hole (e.g., hole 3a) on the back surface thereof,
The hole is provided above the support portion,
A line that passes through the first cutout portion and is drawn in the vertical direction is defined as a first virtual line (for example, a first virtual line X),
If a line passing through the heat dissipation port and drawn in the vertical direction is defined as a second imaginary line (for example, second imaginary line Y),
When the housing is viewed from the front, the hole is located on the first imaginary straight line but not on the second imaginary straight line.
If a foreign object enters the housing through the hole on the back and falls straight down, there is a possibility that the foreign object will pass through the first cutout. Therefore, by offsetting the position of the hole and the heat dissipation port (lateral position), foreign objects from outside the housing can be prevented from passing through the first cutout and entering the heat dissipation port. This further reduces damage to the circuit board unit.

(Variation 1)
When viewed from above, the first cutout portion 135 and a portion of the heat dissipation port 95 may be positioned to overlap. In this case, it is preferable that at least a portion of the heat dissipation port 95 be configured as follows. As shown in FIG. 21 , the heat dissipation port 95 includes a foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96. The foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96 is formed, for example, in a roof shape (dome shape, lid shape) and covers the upper portion (upper side) of the opening while allowing air to pass to the outside (rear side). The foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96 has a function of preventing the intrusion of foreign objects that have fallen from above. The foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96 may be formed with an L-shaped cross section. The foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96 may be provided integrally with the top surface 10 a or as a separate (detachable) portion.

The gaming machine of this modified example is:
a housing (e.g., housing 1);
a board unit (e.g., power supply unit 10);
a reel unit (e.g., reel unit 14);
a support portion (e.g., a reel support portion 13) that supports the reel unit,
the support portion is provided above the substrate unit,
A plurality of heat dissipation ports (e.g., heat dissipation ports 95) are provided on the top surface (e.g., top surface 10a) of the substrate unit,
The support portion has at least one recessed portion,
The cutout portion includes a first cutout portion (e.g., first cutout portion 135) through which no member is inserted,
When viewed from above, the first cutout portion and a portion of the heat dissipation port overlap, and the heat dissipation port is provided with a shape (e.g., a foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96) that covers the upper side of the opening.

(Variation 2)
In FIG. 20 , the heat dissipation port 95, the first cutout 135, and the hole 3a are arranged in ascending order from bottom to top. In this case, the heat dissipation port 95, the first cutout 135, and the hole 3a may be arranged so as to be positioned on the second imaginary line Y when viewed from the front (i.e., so as to be positioned on a straight line). In this case, a foreign object intrusion prevention member 150 is preferably provided between the heat dissipation port 95 and the first cutout 135. In other words, it is preferable that the foreign object intrusion prevention member 150 be interposed (present) between the heat dissipation port 95 and the first cutout 135. The foreign object intrusion prevention member 150 may be any member that covers the upper side of the opening of the heat dissipation port 95, and may be, for example, a plate-shaped cover member.

The gaming machine of this modified example is:
a housing (e.g., housing 1);
a board unit (e.g., power supply unit 10);
a reel unit (e.g., reel unit 14);
a support portion (e.g., a reel support portion 13) that supports the reel unit,
The housing has a hole (e.g., hole 3a) on the back surface thereof,
The hole is provided above the support portion,
the support portion is provided above the substrate unit,
A plurality of heat dissipation ports (e.g., heat dissipation ports 95) are provided on the top surface (e.g., top surface 10a) of the substrate unit,
The support portion has at least one recessed portion,
The cutout portion includes a first cutout portion (e.g., first cutout portion 135) through which no member is inserted,
When viewed from the front, the heat dissipation port, the first cutout portion, and the hole are located on an imaginary straight line drawn in the vertical direction, and a member (e.g., foreign object intrusion prevention member 150) that covers the opening of the heat dissipation port is provided between the heat dissipation port and the first cutout portion.
Even if a foreign object enters the housing through the hole on the rear surface and falls straight down through the first cutout, the foreign object can be prevented from passing through the heat dissipation port, thereby preventing damage to the board unit.

It should be noted that the above-described foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96 may be provided instead of the foreign object intrusion prevention member 150. The phrase "a member covering the opening of the heat dissipation port 95 is provided above the opening" may refer to the foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96 or the foreign object intrusion prevention member 150.
In other words, the gaming machine of this modified example:
a housing (e.g., housing 1);
a board unit (e.g., power supply unit 10);
a reel unit (e.g., reel unit 14);
a support portion (e.g., a reel support portion 13) that supports the reel unit,
The housing has a hole (e.g., hole 3a) on the back surface thereof,
The hole is provided above the support portion,
the support portion is provided above the substrate unit,
A plurality of heat dissipation ports (e.g., heat dissipation ports 95) are provided on the top surface (e.g., top surface 10a) of the substrate unit,
The support portion has at least one recessed portion,
The cutout portion includes a first cutout portion (e.g., first cutout portion 135) through which no member is inserted,
When viewed from the front, the heat dissipation port, the first cutout portion, and the hole are located on an imaginary line drawn in the vertical direction, and a member (e.g., foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96, foreign object intrusion prevention member 150) that covers the opening is provided above the opening of the heat dissipation port.

(Variation 3)
In the second modification, the hole 3a is provided above the reel support portion 13 (first cutout portion 135), but in this modification, the hole 3a is provided below the reel support portion 13 (first cutout portion 135). Below the reel support portion 13 means that at least a portion (the lower end) of the hole 3a is located below the reel support portion 13. The hole 3a is provided above the top surface 10a (heat vent 95) of the power supply unit 10.
The gaming machine of this modified example is:
a housing (e.g., housing 1);
a board unit (e.g., power supply unit 10);
a reel unit (e.g., reel unit 14);
a support portion (e.g., a reel support portion 13) that supports the reel unit,
the support portion is provided above the substrate unit,
The housing has a hole (e.g., hole 3a) on the back surface thereof,
The hole is provided below the support portion,
A plurality of heat dissipation ports (e.g., heat dissipation ports 95) are provided on the top surface (e.g., top surface 10a) of the substrate unit,
The support portion has at least one recessed portion,
The cutout portion includes a first cutout portion (e.g., first cutout portion 135) through which no member is inserted,
When viewed from the front, the heat dissipation port, the hole, and the first cutout portion are located on an imaginary line drawn in the vertical direction, and the heat dissipation port has a shape (e.g., a foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96) that covers the upper side of the opening.
Even if a foreign object enters the housing through the hole on the rear surface and falls straight down, the foreign object can be prevented from passing through the heat dissipation port, thereby preventing damage to the board unit.

(Variation 4)
Figure 22 is a diagram (viewed from above) for explaining the positional relationship between the top surface 10a of the power supply unit 10, the reel support portion 13, and the hole 3a formed in the back panel 3 of the housing 1, and is a view showing through the reel support portion 13.
On the top surface 10a of the power supply unit 10, the area facing the reel support portion 13 is referred to as a first area L, and the area not facing the reel support portion 13 is referred to as a second area M. In other words, when viewed from above, the top surface 10a of the power supply unit 10 has the first area L that overlaps with the reel support portion 13 and the second area M that does not overlap with the reel support portion 13. The second area M is closer to the hole 3a than the first area L. The first area L has multiple heat dissipation ports 95, but the second area M does not have any heat dissipation ports 95.

When viewed from the front, the power supply unit 10 and at least a portion of the hole 3a are positioned on an imaginary line drawn in the vertical direction. In this modification, as in modification 3, the height (vertical position) of the hole 3a is set lower than the reel support portion 13; however, the hole 3a may be set at the same height (or approximately the same height) as the reel support portion 13, or may be set higher than the reel support portion 13. The heat dissipation port 95 provided in the first region L is provided with the foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96 described above. Note that a foreign object intrusion prevention member 150 may be provided instead of the foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96. The phrase "a member covering the opening above the opening of the heat dissipation port 95" may refer to either the foreign object intrusion prevention portion 96 or the foreign object intrusion prevention member 150.

The gaming machine of this modified example is:
a housing (e.g., housing 1);
a board unit (e.g., power supply unit 10);
a reel unit (e.g., reel unit 14);
a support portion (e.g., a reel support portion 13) that supports the reel unit,
The housing has a hole (e.g., hole 3a) on the back surface thereof,
the support portion is provided above the substrate unit,
When viewed from the front, the board unit and at least a part of the hole are located on an imaginary line drawn in the vertical direction,
a top surface (e.g., top surface 10a) of the substrate unit has a first region (e.g., first region L) that overlaps with the support portion when viewed from above, and a second region (e.g., second region M) that does not overlap with the support portion when viewed from above,
the second region has a smaller distance to the hole than the first region;
A plurality of heat dissipation ports (e.g., heat dissipation port 95) are provided in the first region, but no heat dissipation ports are provided in the second region,
A member (for example, a foreign matter intrusion prevention portion 96, a foreign matter intrusion prevention member 150) that covers the opening is provided above the opening of the heat dissipation port in the first region.

On the top surface of the board unit, a second area that does not overlap the support portion when viewed from above and is relatively close to the hole in the rear of the housing does not have a heat dissipation outlet. On the other hand, a first area that overlaps the support portion when viewed from above and is relatively far from the hole in the rear of the housing does have a heat dissipation outlet. This configuration prevents foreign matter that has entered through the hole in the rear of the housing from entering the board unit through the heat dissipation outlet, while providing heat dissipation outlets in locations where foreign matter is unlikely to enter, thereby achieving the board unit's heat dissipation performance. Additionally, by providing a member above the opening of the heat dissipation outlet to cover the opening, the possibility of foreign matter entering the board unit can be further reduced.

In this embodiment, the power supply unit 10 is a board unit, but the board unit is not limited to the power supply unit 10 and may be, for example, a relay board unit, etc.

(Third embodiment)
A third embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that, although a slot machine, which is one type of gaming machine, will be described below, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a slot machine, but may be a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a medalless gaming machine.
In addition, in the following explanation, "front and back" basically means that when a player is in front of the slot machine, the player side is "front" and the slot machine side is "back,""up and down" means that the top side of the slot machine is "up" and the bottom side is "down," and "left and right" means that the left-hand side of the player playing the slot machine is "left" and the right-hand side is "right."
It should be noted that, within the scope of the present invention, the components may be freely combined, or any of the components may be arbitrarily modified, or any of the components may be omitted.

As shown in Figure 23, the slot machine (gaming machine) 10 according to this embodiment comprises a box-shaped housing 11 with an open front side facing the player, and a front door (front door) 12 that opens and closes the front opening of the housing 11. The housing 11 houses a reel unit consisting of a rotatable first reel 20a, a second reel 20b, and a third reel 20c, a hopper device that pays out medals (game value), and the like. The front door 12 is divided into an upper door 12a and a lower door 12b, and these upper door 12a and lower door 12b can each be opened and closed freely relative to the housing 11.

The upper door 12a is equipped with devices for effects, such as a liquid crystal display (display means) 13 and a speaker (sound output means) 14, as well as a display window 16. The liquid crystal display 13 displays images (video and still images) for various effects. The speaker 14 outputs sounds (music, sound effects, voice, etc.) for various effects. In addition to the liquid crystal display 13 and speaker 14, other devices for effects may include lighting devices such as lamps (LEDs), movable props that can be operated by actuators, etc.

A reel unit is arranged behind the display window 16, with part of it visible from outside the display window 16. The outer periphery of each reel 20a-20c is divided into 20 frames (20 areas) at regular intervals, and one of several types of symbols is arranged in each frame. In other words, several types of symbols are arranged in a row on the outer periphery of each reel 20a-20c. When each reel 20a-20c stops, three symbols per reel (top, middle, and bottom symbols) are displayed through the display window 16. The display window 16 has top, middle, and bottom display positions for viewing the symbols on each reel 20a-20c, and winning lines are set by combining the display positions of each reel 20a-20c. In this embodiment, the pay line is formed by the bottom row of the first reel 20a, the middle row of the second reel 20b, and the top row of the third reel 20c.

As shown in FIG. 24, the outer periphery of each reel 20a-20c is arranged with the following symbols: plum symbol "PL," replay symbol "RP," special symbol A "SPA," red 7 symbol "RED 7," bell symbol A "BLA," bell symbol B "BLB," gold 7 symbol "GOLD 7," cherry symbol "CH," black BAR symbol "BLB," and special symbol B "SPB." Each symbol on each reel 20a-20c is assigned a symbol number 0-19. Bell symbol A "BLA" and bell symbol B "BLB" may be collectively referred to as bell symbol "BL." When simply referring to bell symbol "BL," this may refer to both bell symbol A "BLA" and bell symbol B "BLB," or to either one of them.

In this embodiment, the number of medals required for one game (prescribed number) is set to three, and when the prescribed number of medals is inserted, the active line is activated. In the slot machine 10, when play begins, each of the reels 20a-20c begins spinning, and an internal lottery is executed to determine whether any of the winning combinations will be a win or a loss (non-win). Next, when the reels 20a-20c come to a stop, if a symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination selected in the internal lottery is displayed on the active line, this winning combination will be a win, and a process corresponding to the winning combination (winning process) will be executed. In other words, when the reels 20a-20c come to a stop, the symbol combination displayed via the display window 16 indicates whether or not the winning combination has been selected. The active line can be considered a line used to determine whether a winning combination has been selected.

Below the display window 16, a game information display unit 17 is provided. The game information display unit 17 is made up of an LED, lamp, seven-segment display, etc., and displays various game information such as the number of medal credits, the number of medals paid out or won in one game, and error information. In addition, below the display window 16, a favorable zone indicator 18 is provided. The favorable zone indicator 18 may have an LED that lights up and goes out to indicate whether or not the player is in a favorable zone.

The lower door 12b is provided with a medal insertion slot 22 for inserting medals, a bet button 23 that is operated when betting (inserting) credited medals (game medals, game value), a start lever (game start operation means) 24 that is operated when starting a game, stop buttons (stop operation means) 26 (26a, 26b, 26c) for stopping the spinning reels, a payout outlet 27 from which medals are paid out by a hopper device, and a receiving tray 28 that receives medals paid out from the payout outlet 27. In addition, a medal sensor 29 (see FIG. 25) that detects the passage of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 22 is provided at the back of the medal insertion slot 22.
In addition, the bet buttons 23 may be provided as a MAX bet button (first bet button) that is operated when betting three coins (the specified number) of gaming value, and a 1 bet button (second bet button) that is operated when betting one coin of gaming value.

The lower door 12b is also provided with an effect button (effect operation means) 25. The effect button 25 is operated to progress the effect (to change the effect mode), etc. The effect button 25 is designed to be pressable, and when pressed, the mode of the effect image displayed on the LCD display 13, for example, changes. By providing the effect button 25 and enabling its operation at a predetermined timing, it is possible to heighten the player's sense of participation in the game and increase the player's interest in the game. For example, the effect button 25 becomes operable during the execution of an effect that gives the player hope of transitioning to an advantageous state, and an image instructing the player to perform this operation is displayed on the LCD display 13. When the effect button 25 is operated, the result of the game (for example, whether or not a transition to an advantageous state will occur) is notified. The effect button 25 is not limited to being button-shaped, and may be lever-shaped or the like, as long as it is configured to detect the player's operation.

In the slot machine 10, when medals are inserted into the medal slot 22 or the bet button 23 is operated to bet a specified number of medals (set to the inserted state), the operation of the start lever 24 is enabled. In other words, the machine is ready to start playing. Furthermore, when the enabled start lever 24 is operated, play begins. When play begins, each reel 20a-20c begins to spin. When the rotation speed of each reel 20a-20c reaches a certain speed and enters a steady state, operation of the stop buttons 26a-26c is enabled. Furthermore, when an enabled stop button 26a-26c is operated, the rotation of the corresponding reel 20a-20c corresponding to the operated stop button 26a-26c stops. When the rotation of all reels 20a-20c stops, a process is performed, depending on the game result, such as paying out (awarding) a predetermined number of medals or replaying (replaying) the machine to start playing again without consuming any more medals, and one game is completed.

As shown in FIG. 25, the slot machine 10 is provided with a main control board (main control means) 31 and a sub-control board (sub-control means) 32 inside. The main control board 31 receives input signals from input means such as the bet button 23, start lever 24, stop buttons 26a-26c, and medal sensor 29, performs various calculations to execute games, and controls output means such as the reel unit and hopper device based on the calculation results. The sub-control board 32 also receives signals sent from the main control board 31 and input signals from input means such as the effect button 25, performs various calculations to execute effects, and controls effect devices such as the LCD display 13 and speaker 14 based on the calculation results.

In addition, the main control board 31 and the sub-control board 32 are electrically connected, and various information (signals) such as information indicating the game status can be transmitted from the main control board 31 to the sub-control board 32, but information cannot be transmitted from the sub-control board 32 to the main control board 31.
In addition, the functions of each board, such as the main control board 31 and the sub-control board 32, are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, or information storage media such as ROM and RAM, or by software consisting of a predetermined program pre-stored in ROM, etc.

The main control board 31 includes a deposit acceptance means 40, a random number generation means 41, an internal lottery means 42 for conducting an internal lottery to determine whether a winning combination has been achieved, a reel control means 43 for controlling the rotation of the reels, a winning determination means 44 for determining whether a winning combination has been achieved when all the reels have stopped, a payout control means 45, a replay control means 46, a setting change means 47, an initialization means 48, a game status control means 49, an instruction function control means 51, a main effect control means 52, and a storage means 60 (main storage means). The storage means 60 includes a ROM and a RAM.
The sub-control board 32 also includes a sub-effect control means 70 and a sub-side storage means (sub-memory) 72. The sub-side storage means 72 also includes a ROM and a RAM.

Furthermore, the presentation main control means 52 and the presentation sub-control means 70 constitute the presentation control means 100. The presentation main control means 52 issues instructions to the presentation sub-control means 70 based on the game status, presentation status, etc. Furthermore, the presentation sub-control means 70 controls the presentation devices using the presentation data stored in the sub-side storage means 72 based on the game status, presentation status information, or information regarding whether or not a presentation instruction will be performed, transmitted from the presentation main control means 52. Note that the control performed by the presentation main control means 52 described in this embodiment may be performed by the presentation sub-control means 70, and vice versa. Furthermore, the control performed by the presentation control means 100 described in this embodiment may be performed by the instruction function control means 51, and vice versa.

The coin insertion acceptance means 40 accepts the insertion of medals for each game and, when a specified number of medals have been inserted, performs processing to enable a game start operation on the start lever 24. Specifically, when medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot 22, the medal sensor 29 detects the medals and the coin insertion acceptance means 40 sets the inserted medals to an inserted state (bet state) up to a specified number. Furthermore, when the bet button 23 is pressed after medals have been credited, the coin insertion acceptance means 40 sets the credited medals to an inserted state up to a specified number. Note that in this embodiment, the first press of the start lever 24, which has been enabled based on the insertion of the specified number of medals, is accepted as a game start operation, and this operation triggers the rotation of the reels 20a to 20c and the execution of a lottery, such as an internal lottery.

The insertion acceptance means 40 also controls the system so that medals owned by the player are not newly set to the inserted state in the next game after the game in which a replay was won. Specifically, if a replay was won in the previous game, even if medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot 22 while medal insertion is being accepted, the inserted medals are not set to the inserted state, and are credited up to the credit upper limit (e.g., 50 medals). Furthermore, while medal insertion is being accepted, operation of the bet button 23 is not accepted, so that credited medals are not set to the inserted state even if the bet button 23 is pressed.

The random number generating means 41 generates random numbers for the lottery. Random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so that it cycles through a specified count range). In this embodiment, "random numbers" not only include values that are generated randomly in the mathematical sense, but also values that are generated regularly but can actually function as random numbers because the timing of their acquisition is irregular.

The internal lottery means 42 performs an internal lottery using an internal lottery table when the activated start lever 24 is operated (i.e., when a game starts).
The internal lottery table associates various winning combinations, including small winning combinations, replays, and bonuses, and losing combinations (non-winning combinations), with each of a plurality of random numbers (for example, 65,536 random numbers from 0 to 65,535), and a plurality of internal lottery tables are stored in an internal lottery table storage area 61 provided in the ROM of the storage means 60. In this embodiment, as will be described later, the game status can be set to a normal state, an RBB internal state, and an RBB operating state, and six setting values, from setting 1 to setting 6, can be set as the setting value, and the internal lottery means 42 selects an internal lottery table according to the game status and the setting value and performs an internal lottery.
A small win is a win that allows a player to receive a payout of a predetermined number of medals according to the small win. A replay is a win (activation) that allows a player to play again without consuming any more medals. When a replay is won, the operation of the start lever 24 is enabled without the player using any medals, and the player can start playing by operating the start lever 24.

In the internal lottery, a random number value for the lottery is obtained from the random number generating means 41, and this random number value is compared with the internal lottery table to determine whether or not a winning combination has been achieved. The winning combination associated with the random number value is determined to be a winning combination. Specifically, the internal lottery table has multiple winning areas as shown in FIG. 26, and each random number value obtained from the random number generating means 41 is corresponding to one of the winning areas. The winning areas include winning areas that contain one or more winning combinations (are associated with winning combinations), and winning areas that do not contain any winning combinations (are associated with losing combinations). Each winning area contains a different combination of winning combinations. All winning combinations that belong to the winning areas that are associated with the random number value obtained from the random number generating means 41 are determined to be winning combinations as a result of the internal lottery. Hereinafter, when a combination that belongs to a winning area is won in the internal lottery, this will also be referred to as "the winning area being won." When no combination is won, this will also be referred to as "the winning area 'non-winning' being won."

As shown in FIG. 26, in this embodiment, small wins include small win 1 through small win 20. The winning areas that include small wins include "Small Win ALL," "1 Pair ALL," "Weak Cherry 1," "Weak Cherry 2," "Batting Order Plum A1" through "Batting Order Plum A4," "Batting Order Plum B1" through "Batting Order Plum B4," "Common Plum 1" through "Common Plum 2," "1 Pair 1," "1 Pair 1," "1 Pair 2," and "1 Pair 2." Small wins 1 through 4 are eight-coin wins, with eight medals being paid out upon winning. Small wins 5 and 6 are three-coin wins, with three medals being paid out upon winning. Small wins 7 through 20 are one-coin wins, with one medal being paid out upon winning.

In the following, the winning areas "Batting Order Plum A1" to "Batting Order Plum A4" and "Batting Order Plum B1" to "Batting Order Plum B4" may be collectively referred to as the winning area "Batting Order Plum." Furthermore, the winning areas "Common Plum 1" and "Common Plum 2" may be collectively referred to as the winning area "Common Plum." Furthermore, the winning areas "1 Piece 1" and "1 Piece 2" may be collectively referred to as the winning area "1 Piece." Furthermore, the winning areas "1 Piece Plum 1" and "1 Piece Plum 2" may be collectively referred to as the winning area "1 Piece Plum."

The winning area "Small Winning ALL" is a winning area where all small winning combinations (Small Winning 1 to Small Winning 20) overlap and are won. The winning area "1 Piece ALL" is a winning area where small winning combinations 7 to 20 overlap and are won. The winning area "Weak Cherry 1" is a winning area where small winning combination 5 is won alone. The winning area "Weak Cherry 2" is a winning area where multiple types of 3-piece winning combinations overlap and are won. The winning area "Battle Order Plum" is a winning area where one type of 8-piece winning combination and multiple types of 1-piece winning combinations overlap and are won. The winning area "Common Plum 1" is a winning area where one type of 8-piece winning combination and multiple types of 1-piece winning combinations overlap and are won. The winning area "Common Plum 2" is a winning area where one type of 8-piece winning combination and one type of 1-piece winning combination overlap and are won. The winning area "1 Piece Plum 1" is a winning area where multiple types of 1-piece winning combinations overlap and are won. Additionally, the winning area "1 coin 1" is a winning area where multiple types of 1 coin roles overlap and are won. Additionally, the winning area "1 coin plum 2" is a winning area where multiple types of 1 coin roles overlap and are won. Additionally, the winning area "1 coin 2" is a winning area where multiple types of 1 coin roles overlap and are won.

In addition, in this embodiment, replays are available in the following ranges: Replay 1 to Replay 23. Winning areas containing replays include "Replay 1" to "Replay 4," "Parallel Bell," "Diagonal Bell," "Reach Eye Replay 1" to "Reach Eye Replay 9," "Strong Cherry Scissors 2-Confirmed," "Strong Cherry," and "Chance Replay."

The winning areas "Replay 1" to "Replay 4" are winning areas where multiple types of replays are overlapping and can be won. The winning area "Parallel Bell" is also a winning area where multiple types of replays are overlapping and can be won. The winning area "Diagonal Bell" is also a winning area where multiple types of replays are overlapping and can be won. The winning areas "Reach Eye Replay 1" to "Reach Eye Replay 9" are also winning areas where multiple types of replays are overlapping and can be won. The winning area "Strong Cherry Scissors 2-Confirmed" is also a winning area where multiple types of replays are overlapping and can be won. The winning area "Strong Cherry" is also a winning area where multiple types of replays are overlapping and can be won. The winning area "Chance Replay" is also a winning area where multiple types of replays are overlapping and can be won.

In this embodiment, a big bonus (RBB: special role) is provided as a bonus. A winning area "RBB" in which a big bonus can be won alone is provided as a winning area associated with the bonus, and the winning areas "1 Plum 1,""1 Plum 1,""1 Plum 2," and "1 Plum 2" are set so that the big bonus can be won multiple times. In addition, the winning areas "1 Plum 1,""1 Plum 1,""1 Plum 2," and "1 Plum 2" are set so that the big bonus can be won multiple times when the gaming state is in the normal gaming state, whereas the big bonus cannot be won multiple times when the gaming state is in the RBB internal gaming state.
In this embodiment, a bonus is assumed to be a continuous operation device for a so-called first-class special bonus, but other bonuses may also be used. Other bonuses may also be installed. The installed bonuses may be set to be won independently, or may be set to be won in combination with a replay or small bonus.

In addition, there is a "No Win" area that corresponds to a losing win.

Each winning area is set to be winable or non-winable depending on the game state. In other words, the internal lottery means 42 selects an internal lottery table depending on the game state and performs an internal lottery, thereby changing the winning combination that can be won. In other words, in each game state, an internal lottery is performed using an internal lottery table in which the winning areas that can be won in each game state are included in the lottery targets.
In Figure 26, the win possibility of each winning area in each game state is indicated by a "◎" or "◯" symbol. That is, the winning areas "No Win,""Small Win All," and "1 Coin All" are winable when the game state is in the RBB operating state, but are not winable when the game state is in the normal state or the RBB internal state. Also, the winning areas "Weak Cherry 1,""Weak Cherry 2,""Plum in Batting Order,""CommonPlum,""Replay1" to "Replay 4,""ParallelBell,""DiagonalBell,""Reach Eye Replay 1" to "Reach Eye Replay 9,""Strong Cherry Scissors 2 Confirmed,""StrongCherry,""ChanceReplay,""1 Coin Plum 1,""1 Coin 1,""1 Coin Plum 2," and "1 Coin 2" are winable when the game state is in the normal state or the RBB internal state, but are not winable when the RBB is operating. In addition, the winning area "RBB" is won when the game state is in the normal state, and is not won when the game state is in the RBB internal state or the RBB operating state.

In addition, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a small win is the same in the normal state and the RBB internal state. Also, replays cannot be won in the RBB operating state. In other words, the probability of winning a replay is higher in the normal state and the RBB internal state than in the RBB operating state.

The internal lottery means 42 sets the winning flag corresponding to the winning role as a result of the internal lottery from a non-winning state (off state) to a winning state (on state). Furthermore, if multiple winning roles are won at the same time, the winning flag corresponding to each of the winning roles is set from a non-winning state to a winning state. Furthermore, the setting information for the winning flag is stored in a winning flag memory area 62 provided in the RAM of the memory means 60.

Furthermore, there are two types of winning flags: a winning flag (carry-over flag) that can carry over its winning state to subsequent games until a win is achieved, and a winning flag (non-carry-over flag) that does not carry over its winning state to subsequent games regardless of whether a win is achieved and is reset to a non-winning state (non-carry-over flag). A big bonus is an example of a winning combination associated with a carry-over flag. A small win and a replay are examples of winning combinations associated with a non-carry-over flag. For example, when a big bonus is won in the internal lottery, the internal lottery means 42 carries over the winning state of the big bonus winning flag until the big bonus is won. At this time, the internal lottery means 42 also performs an internal lottery to determine whether a small win and a replay will be won, even in a game in which the winning state of the big bonus winning flag is carried over. In other words, when a small win or a replay is won in a game in which the winning state of the big bonus winning flag is carried over, the internal lottery means 42 sets winning flags corresponding to two or more types of winning combinations, namely, the winning flag of the big bonus that has already been won and the winning flag of the small win or replay that was won in the internal lottery, to a winning state.

Furthermore, the slot machine 10 has six setting values, from Setting 1 to Setting 6, and the probability of winning a winning combination varies depending on the setting value. Specifically, when the setting is changed, the internal lottery table group, which consists of multiple internal lottery tables selected according to the game state, is changed to an internal lottery table group associated with each setting, and the internal lottery table group changes to one with different winning probabilities for small winning combinations, replays, and bonuses depending on the setting.

The setting change means 47 controls changing of the setting values stored in the setting value storage area 63 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60. Specifically, when a setting change key is inserted into a setting change key cylinder provided inside the slot machine 10 and the slot machine 10 is powered on with the setting change key (setting change key cylinder) rotated 90 degrees clockwise from its initial position, the setting change means 47 starts the slot machine 10 in setting change mode. The setting value can be selected from six setting levels, from Setting 1 to Setting 6, and the winning probability of the internal lottery varies so that the expected payout rate increases sequentially from Setting 1 to Setting 6. In the setting change mode, the setting change means 47 changes the setting value in the following order each time a setting change button provided inside the slot machine 10 is pressed: Setting 1 → Setting 2 → ... Setting 6 → Setting 1 → .... When the start lever 24 is pressed, the setting value is confirmed and stored in the setting value storage area 63. In addition, it is possible to switch from the setting change mode to the game mode by returning the setting change key inserted into the setting change key cylinder to its initial position.
In this embodiment, the setting values are expressed in the order of setting 1<setting 2<setting 3<setting 4<setting 5<setting 6.

Furthermore, when the power is turned on with the setting change key cylinder in the initial position, the slot machine 10 starts in game mode. In this embodiment, in game mode, game play is possible but setting values cannot be changed, while in setting change mode, setting values can be changed but game play is not possible. The main control means 31 may also include a setting confirmation means. In game mode with the power turned on, when a setting key is inserted into the setting change key cylinder and the setting key is rotated 90 degrees clockwise from the initial position, the setting confirmation means transitions the gaming machine (gaming machine 10) from game mode to setting confirmation mode (setting reference mode) and performs a process (setting notification process) to notify the current setting value via the LCD display 13, the game information display unit 17, etc. In setting confirmation mode, an image (e.g., the words "Setting reference in progress") is displayed on the LCD display 13 to indicate that the setting confirmation mode is active. In setting confirmation mode, the first main display in the game information display unit 17 displays the currently set setting value. In setting confirmation mode, the current setting values can be viewed (announced), but it is not possible to play the game. Also, in setting confirmation mode, the setting values can be viewed, but they cannot be changed.

When the setting value is changed, the initialization means 48 performs an initialization process to initialize at least a portion of the information stored in the RAM of the storage means 60. Specifically, when the setting value is changed, the initialization means 48 performs a process to return the game state, game zone, and presentation state (described below) to their initial states. That is, when the setting value is changed, the game state becomes a normal state, the game zone becomes a non-advantageous zone, and the presentation state becomes a non-advantageous zone presentation state, and these states become the same as when the power was first turned on after shipping from the factory. During the initialization process, the initialization means 48 also initializes other information related to presentation stored in the RAM of the storage means 60. The sub-control board 32 also includes initialization means (not shown), and when a signal indicating that the setting value has been changed is transmitted from the main control board 31, the initialization means of the sub-control board 32 initializes the information related to presentation stored in the RAM of the sub-side storage means 72.
In addition, even if the setting value is changed, the game state, game section, and presentation state may not return to their initial state.

The reel control means 43 starts the rotation of each reel 20a-20c when the activated start lever 24 is operated (i.e., when a game starts) under the control of the main control board 31, and when the activated stop button 26a-26c is operated, it controls the stopping of the reel corresponding to the operated stop button.

In other words, each time one of the stop buttons 26a to 26c is operated, the reel control means 43 determines the stop position of the reel corresponding to the operated button (among the first reel 20a to the third reel 20c) and controls the reel to stop at the determined stop position. In the slot machine 10, when the stop button 26a is operated, the rotation of the first reel 20a is stopped; when the stop button 26b is operated, the rotation of the second reel 20b is stopped; and when the stop button 26c is operated, the rotation of the third reel 20c is stopped. Therefore, the stop order of the first reel 20a to the third reel 20c changes depending on the operation order (play order) of the stop buttons 26a to 26c.

In the following, with regard to the order of stop operations (the order of operation of stop buttons 26a to 26c), the order in which all stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated as a single stop operation will be referred to as the "batting order." Furthermore, of the stop operations that make up the batting order, the first stop operation performed will be referred to as the "first stop operation," the second stop operation will be referred to as the "second stop operation," and the third stop operation will be referred to as the "third stop operation."

In the following description, the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c to stop the rotating reels in the order of the first reel 20a, the second reel 20b, and the third reel 20c will be referred to as "batting order 1," the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c to stop the rotating reels in the order of the first reel 20a, the third reel 20c, and the second reel 20b will be referred to as "batting order 2," and the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c to stop the rotating reels in the order of the second reel 20b, the first reel 20a, and the third reel 20c will be referred to as "batting order 3."", and the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c to stop the rotating reels in the order of the second reel 20b, the third reel 20c, and the first reel 20a is designated as "batting order 4", the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c to stop the rotating reels in the order of the third reel 20c, the first reel 20a, and the second reel 20b is designated as "batting order 5", and the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c to stop the rotating reels in the order of the third reel 20c, the second reel 20b, and the first reel 20a is designated as "batting order 6".
In addition, "batting order 1" and "batting order 2" are collectively called "left push", "batting order 3" and "batting order 4" are collectively called "middle push", and "batting order 5" and "batting order 6" are collectively called "right push (reverse push)". In addition, "middle push" and "right push" are sometimes collectively called "irregular push".

In this embodiment, the rotating reel corresponding to the pressed stop button (first reel 20a-third reel 20c) is stopped within 190 ms of the moment the stop button (26a-26c) is operated. Furthermore, the reel can rotate a maximum of four frames (four symbols) from the moment the stop button (26a-26c) is operated until the reel (20a-20c) stops. The reel control means 43 controls the reel (20a-20c) corresponding to the stop button (26a-26c) to be stopped so that the symbol corresponding to the winning combination, whose win flag is set to a winning state, is displayed on the winning line when the symbol corresponding to the winning combination is located within a range of 0 to 4 frames (a predetermined pull-in range) on the outer periphery of the reel (20a-20c) corresponding to the stop button (26a-26c) that was operated. In other words, the reel control means 43 stops the reels 20a-20c corresponding to the stop button 26a-26c for which the stop operation was performed so that any one of the symbols from the symbol currently on the pay line at the time the stop operation was performed to the symbol four symbols adjacent thereto is displayed on the pay line.

In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 24, multiple types of symbols are arranged on the outer periphery of reels 20a to 20c, and when symbols within four frames from the press detection position (the position of the reel at the time the press of the stop button is detected) are drawn onto an active line, symbols arranged at intervals of four frames or less on the outer periphery of each reel can be displayed in any display position, regardless of the press detection position.

Furthermore, in the stop control when the stop buttons 26a-26c are operated, the reel control means 43 stops each of the reels 20a-20c so that a winning combination whose win flag is set to a winning state will be awarded. Specifically, when the win flag for one winning combination is set to a winning state, the reels 20a-20c are stopped so that this winning combination will be awarded. Furthermore, when the win flags for multiple winning combinations are set to winning states, the reels 20a-20c are stopped in accordance with the priority order set for each combination so that a predetermined winning combination will be awarded. In this embodiment, the priority order is set as "replay > minor combination > bonus." The reel control means 43 then stops the reels 20a-20c so that the symbols constituting the symbol combination representing the winning form of a combination with a higher priority are displayed on the pay line in priority to the symbols constituting the symbol combination representing the winning form of a combination with a lower priority.

Furthermore, when multiple types of minor winning combinations are won in the internal lottery, the priority of candidate stop positions can be determined by two methods: a method that determines the priority based on the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the active line (number priority control), and a method that determines the priority based on the number of medals paid out (number priority control). When executing number priority control, which determines the priority of candidate stop positions based on the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the active line, the priority of each candidate stop position is determined so that the stop position (pattern) with the greater number of symbol combinations that can result in winning combinations that can be displayed on the active line has a higher priority. When executing number priority control, which determines the priority of candidate stop positions based on the number of medals paid out, the priority of each candidate stop position is determined so that the stop position with the greater number of medals paid out based on the payout of the minor winning combination corresponding to the symbol displayed at the display position on the active line (a stop position that can win a minor winning combination with a higher payout) has a higher priority. Note that when determining the priority of candidate stop positions based on the number of medals paid out, if multiple minor winning combinations with the same payout are won, the priority of candidate stop positions that can win each minor winning combination is treated as being the same.

FIG. 27 shows the relationship between the manner of stop operation and the winning combination when each winning area (batting order plum) is won in the RBB internal state.
As shown in FIG. 27 , each winning area "batting order plum" is set to a correct batting order and an incorrect batting order. When each winning area of the batting order plum is selected in the RBB internal state, if the player operates the correct batting order (correct operation mode), an 8-piece role (correct role) will be awarded, and if the player operates the incorrect batting order (incorrect operation mode), a 1-piece role (incorrect role) will be awarded. In other words, if any of the batting order plums is selected in the RBB internal state, pressing the stop buttons 26 a to 26 c in the correct batting order determines the highest priority for the candidate stop positions that can award an 8-piece role. Pressing the stop buttons 26 a to 26 c in the incorrect batting order determines the highest priority for the candidate stop positions that can award a 1-piece role.

There is only one correct batting order for each batting order plum, and the other five batting orders are considered incorrect batting orders. Also, the winning areas "Batting Order Plum A" and "Batting Order Plum B" each have a different correct batting order. Also, the winning areas "Batting Order Plum A" and "Batting Order Plum B" each have a correct batting order of one of batting orders 3 to 6, and batting orders 1 and 2 are each set to incorrect batting orders.

Note that the content in parentheses in Figure 27 indicates the winning probability of a 1-coin role when a stopping operation is performed in that batting order. For example, the notation "1 (1/2)" indicates that there is a 1/2 probability of a 1-coin role winning, and a 1/2 probability of missing the 1-coin role (not winning a 1-coin role).

In the winning area "Batting Order Plum A," if the operation is performed in the correct batting order, an 8-piece role will be awarded, and if the operation is performed in the incorrect batting order, a 1-piece role will be awarded. In the winning area "Batting Order Plum B," if the operation is performed in the correct batting order, an 8-piece role will be awarded, and if the operation is performed in the incorrect batting order, a 1-piece role will be awarded or neither role will be awarded. Note that if the winning area "Batting Order Plum A" is won in the normal state, a 1-piece role will be awarded even if the stop operation is performed in the batting order that would result in an 8-piece role if the state is inside the RBB.
In addition, the winning area "Common Plum" is set to win an 8-coin combination regardless of the batting order in which the winning area is stopped. In addition, when the winning area "Common Plum 1" is won in the normal state, it is set to win a 1-coin combination regardless of the batting order in which the winning area is stopped.

The winning determination means 44 is activated when the rotation of the reels 20a-20c stops, and determines whether a winning combination has been achieved based on the stopping state of the reels 20a-20c. Specifically, the symbol combination displayed (stopped) on the pay line when the reels 20a-20c stop is compared with a winning determination table stored in the ROM of the storage means 60. The winning form (the symbol combination that will win when stopped) for each winning combination is stored in the winning determination table, and the above-mentioned comparison determines whether a winning combination has been achieved and the type of winning combination that has been achieved. The correspondence between the symbol combinations displayed on the pay line and the winning combinations in this embodiment is shown in Figures 28, 29, and 30. As shown in FIG. 29, for example, if the plum symbol "PL" stops on the bottom row of the first reel 20a, the plum symbol "PL" stops on the middle row of the second reel 20b, and the plum symbol "PL" stops on the top row of the third reel 20c (if the plum symbols "PL" line up in an upward sloping line to the right), then minor win 2 will be won.

When a winning combination is achieved, the main control board 31 executes the winning process corresponding to the winning combination. Specifically, the winning process involves a payout process when a minor combination is achieved, a replay process (replay process) when a replay is achieved (activated), and a process to transition the game state (game state transition control process) when a bonus is achieved (activated).

The payout process here is a process of paying out a number of medals determined based on the payout determined for each role when a small winning combination is achieved, and is performed by the payout control means 45. When a small winning combination is achieved, the payout control means 45 determines the number of medals to be paid out based on the payout determined for each role, and causes the hopper device to pay out the determined number of medals. Note that when credits are permitted, instead of actually paying out medals using the hopper device, a credit addition process is performed in which the payout number is added to the number of credits (number of credited medals) stored in the credit storage area provided in the RAM of the storage means 60, and medals are virtually paid out.

In this embodiment, eight medals are paid out when small wins 1 to 4 are won, three medals are paid out when small wins 5 to 6 are won, and one medal is paid out when small wins 7 to 20 are won.

In addition, when a replay wins, the replay process is a process performed by the replay control means 46 that sets the next game to the same game start standby state as the previous game, without requiring the player to insert any medals owned by the player. When a replay wins, an automatic insertion process is performed in which the same number of medals as those set to be inserted in the previous game (the game in which the replay won) are automatically inserted without using any medals held by the player (including credited medals), and the system waits for the next game start operation using the start lever 24, with an active line set corresponding to the number of medals inserted by the automatic insertion process. In addition, when the automatic insertion process is performed, it is not possible to insert additional medals.

As shown in FIG. 31, the game state control means 49 performs game state transition control processing to transition the game state between the general state, the RBB internal state (bonus established state), and the RBB operating state (bonus state). A single condition or multiple conditions may be defined as the game state transition condition. If multiple conditions are defined, the game state may be transitioned based on one of the multiple predetermined conditions being established, or based on multiple or all of the multiple predetermined conditions being established.

As described above, the internal lottery means 42 selects an internal lottery table depending on the gaming state and conducts the internal lottery. Specifically, in the normal state, the internal lottery is conducted by referencing an internal lottery table in which the big bonus is set as a lottery subject. In the RBB internal state, the internal lottery is conducted by referencing an internal lottery table in which the big bonus is excluded from the lottery subjects. In the RBB operation state, the internal lottery is conducted by referencing an internal lottery table in which the big bonus is excluded from the lottery subjects.

The initial gaming state is the general state. In the general state, an internal lottery is conducted by referring to an internal lottery table in which all winning areas except for the winning areas "No Win," "Small Win All," and "1 Coin All" are set as targets for the lottery. In addition, it is possible to transition from the general state to the RBB internal state. If a big bonus is won in the general state, the gaming state control means 49 transitions the gaming state to the RBB internal state.

The RBB internal state (first gaming state) is a gaming state to which the game enters when a big bonus is won in an internal lottery. In the RBB internal state, the internal lottery is conducted by referring to an internal lottery table in which all winning areas except for the winning areas "No Win," "Small Win All," "1 Coin All," and "RBB" are set as targets for the lottery. Also, in the RBB internal state, the lottery flag corresponding to the big bonus is maintained in a winning state until the big bonus is won, and when a symbol combination indicating a big bonus winning form is displayed on the pay line, the gaming state control means 49 transitions the gaming state from the RBB internal state to the RBB operating state.

The RBB operating state (second gaming state) is a gaming state to which the game enters when a symbol combination indicating a big bonus winning mode is displayed on the pay line. In the RBB operating state, an internal lottery is performed by referring to an internal lottery table in which the winning areas "No Win,""Small Win All," and "1 Coin All" are set as the lottery targets. In the RBB operating state, the game state control means 49 determines whether the termination condition is met based on the total number of medals paid out in the RBB operating state. If the number of medals paid out exceeds a predetermined number, the game state control means 49 terminates the RBB operating state and transitions the gaming state to the normal state.
In this embodiment, the termination condition of the RBB operating state is determined by the total number of medals paid out, but the termination condition may be determined by the number of games played in the RBB operating state, the number of times a small win is won, etc. Also, the termination condition of the RBB operating state may be determined so that it ends after one game.

As shown in FIG. 25 , the instruction function control means 51 includes a game zone control means 80, a presentation state control means 81, and a bonus granting means 82. The instruction function control means 51 performs processing related to the activation of an instruction function that assists in the winning of a specific role in a favorable zone. Specifically, when a specific role is won, the instruction function control means 51 determines whether to perform an instruction presentation (batting order navigation presentation) that assists in the winning of this role. More specifically, when, for example, a batting order plum is won, the instruction function control means 51 determines whether to perform an instruction presentation (batting order navigation presentation) that notifies the player of the correct batting order and assists in the winning of an eight-piece role. When the instruction function control means 51 determines to perform the batting order navigation presentation, the presentation control means 100 causes presentation devices such as the LCD display 13 and speaker 14 to execute the batting order navigation presentation. Furthermore, when the instruction function control means 51 performs the batting order navigation presentation, it causes the 7-segment display of the game information display unit 17 to display information indicating the correct batting order.

As shown in FIG. 32, the gaming zone control means 80 performs gaming zone transition control processing to transition the gaming zone between a non-advantageous zone and an advantageous zone depending on the progress of the game. The non-advantageous zone is a gaming zone that corresponds to the initial state among multiple types of gaming zones. In the non-advantageous zone, the bonus granting means 82 conducts a lottery for transition to an advantageous zone, and if the lottery for transition to an advantageous zone is won, the gaming zone control means 80 transitions the gaming zone to an advantageous zone. The advantageous zone is also a gaming zone in which an upper limit (4,000 times in this case) is set for the number of times that play can be performed. Furthermore, when the gaming zone is set as a non-advantageous zone, instruction effects cannot be performed, and instruction effects can only be performed when the gaming zone is set as an advantageous zone. When the number of times play has been performed in the advantageous zone reaches the upper limit of 4,000 times, the gaming zone control means 80 ends the advantageous zone and transitions the gaming zone to a non-advantageous zone.

In the non-advantageous zone, the bonus granting means 82 conducts a lottery (advantageous zone transition lottery) to determine whether or not to transition to an advantageous zone at a predetermined trigger. Specifically, the bonus granting means 82 conducts a lottery (advantageous zone transition lottery) to determine whether or not to transition to an advantageous zone based on the result of the internal lottery (winning a predetermined role (winning area)). Then, if the advantageous zone transition lottery is won, the game zone control means 80 transitions the game zone from the non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone.

Furthermore, each time a game is played in the advantageous zone, the game zone control means 80 performs an increment process, triggered by the operation of the start lever 24 to start play, to add "1" to the stored value of the advantageous zone game count counter 65 stored in the RAM of the storage means 60 as a value corresponding to one game. Note that the game zone control means 80 does not add to the advantageous zone game count counter 65 in the non-advantageous zone. Furthermore, at the time of transition from the non-advantageous zone to the advantageous zone, the stored value of the advantageous zone game count counter 65 is "0." Then, when the stored value of the advantageous zone game count counter 65 reaches a threshold value (upper limit) of "4000," the game zone control means 80 determines that the advantageous zone termination condition has been met and transitions the game zone from the advantageous zone to the non-advantageous zone. In other words, the upper limit for the number of games played in the advantageous zone is set to 4000, preventing more than 4000 consecutive games from being played in the advantageous zone.

Furthermore, in the advantageous zone, the gaming zone control means 80 performs an update process in which it updates the stored value of the difference number counter 64 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60 with the difference number of medals, subtracts a value corresponding to the number of medals inserted in the game (for example, "3" if three medals are inserted) from a value corresponding to the number of medals paid out (for example, "8" if eight medals are paid out, and "0" if no winning combination is achieved and no payout is made) to obtain the calculation result of the difference number for that game, and adds this calculation result to the stored value of the difference number counter 64. Note that the gaming zone control means 80 does not add to the difference number counter 64 in the non-advantageous zone. Furthermore, at the time of transition from the non-advantageous zone to the advantageous zone, the stored value of the difference number counter 64 is "0." Then, when the stored value of the difference number counter 64 exceeds a threshold value (for example, "2400"), the game zone control means 80 determines that the condition for ending the advantageous zone is met and transitions the game zone from the advantageous zone to the non-advantageous zone.
In this embodiment, the stored value of the difference number counter 64 is controlled so that it may fall below the initial value "0" at the time of transition to the advantageous zone (at the start of the advantageous zone). For example, if the stored value of the difference number counter 64 at the start of a game is "2" and, as a result of playing a game, no winning combination is achieved and no medals are paid out, the calculation result of the difference number for that game will be "-3," and adding the calculation result of the difference number to the stored value of the difference number counter 64 will fall below the initial value "0." In this embodiment, an upper limit is set for the number of medals that can be earned in the advantageous zone, and the advantageous zone ends (the condition for ending the advantageous zone is met) when the increase in the number of medals from the reference point at the time of transition to the advantageous zone (at the start of the advantageous zone) exceeds 2,400. In addition, if a replay is won in a game, the game in which the replay was won may be treated as having been paid out with medals equivalent to the specified number of medals inserted for that game, and the difference in the number of medals may be calculated.For the next game that is provided free of charge due to the replay being won, even if no actual medals are inserted, the difference in the number of medals may be calculated by treating it as having been paid out with medals equivalent to the specified number of medals inserted for that game.

Furthermore, the advantageous zone indicator 18 may be configured to turn off in non-advantageous zones and turn on in advantageous zones. Note that the advantageous zone indicator 18 does not need to turn on immediately upon transition to an advantageous zone; it only needs to be turned on before the first instruction display is performed. Furthermore, once turned on, it will not turn off until the advantageous zone ends.

As shown in FIG. 32, the presentation state control means 81 performs presentation state transition control processing to transition the presentation state between multiple presentation states, including a non-advantageous zone presentation state, a normal presentation state, a CZ presentation state, an AT presentation state, a special CZ presentation state, and a special presentation state. The presentation state transition condition may be a single condition or multiple conditions. If multiple conditions are defined, the presentation state may be transitioned when one of the multiple predetermined conditions is met, or when multiple or all of the multiple predetermined conditions are met.

(Non-advantageous zone presentation state)
The non-advantageous zone presentation state is a presentation state that corresponds to the initial state among multiple types of presentation states. In the non-advantageous zone, the presentation state control means 81 sets the presentation state to the non-advantageous zone presentation state. In the non-advantageous zone presentation state (non-advantageous zone), the bonus granting means 82 performs a lottery for transition to an advantageous zone as described above, and when a transition to an advantageous zone is determined in the lottery for transition to an advantageous zone, the presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to the normal presentation state. Note that, based on the determination of a transition to an advantageous zone, the presentation state control means 81 may transition the presentation state to a presentation state other than the normal presentation state (for example, a special CZ presentation state).

(Normal performance state)
The normal presentation state is a presentation state that is basically transitioned to when the advantageous zone starts, and at the start of the advantageous zone, the probability of transitioning to the normal presentation state is set higher than the probability of transitioning to other presentation states. Also, in the normal presentation state, the batting order navigation presentation is executed less frequently than in the CZ presentation state (CZ presentation state and special CZ presentation state) and the AT presentation state, and the batting order navigation presentation is almost never performed or is not performed at all (the expectation of acquiring game value is low).

In the normal presentation state, the presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to the CZ presentation state based on the fulfillment of the conditions for transitioning to the CZ presentation state. In the normal presentation state, the bonus granting means 82 conducts a lottery (CZ lottery) to determine whether or not to transition to the CZ presentation state based on the achievement of a predetermined result in the internal lottery (winning a predetermined role (winning area)). The presentation state control means 81 determines that the conditions for transitioning to the CZ presentation state are fulfilled based on the winning of the CZ lottery, and transitions the presentation state to the CZ presentation state.

In addition, an upper limit (so-called ceiling) may be set for the number of plays in the normal presentation state, and the presentation state control means 81 may determine that the conditions for transitioning to the CZ presentation state have been met when the number of plays in the normal presentation state reaches a predetermined number (ceiling). Also, in the normal presentation state, the bonus awarding means 82 may be able to award points at a predetermined trigger (for example, when a play is played), and when points are awarded, a value corresponding to the points is added to the stored value of a counter (not shown) provided in the RAM of the storage means 60, and the presentation state control means 81 may determine that the conditions for transitioning to the CZ presentation state have been met when the stored value of the counter reaches a predetermined value.

(CZ performance state)
In the CZ presentation state (chance presentation state), the bonus granting means 82 conducts a lottery (AT lottery) to determine whether or not to transition to the AT presentation state based on the fact that a predetermined result (winning a predetermined role (winning area)) has been obtained in the internal lottery. When the bonus granting means 82 wins the AT lottery, it grants the right to transition to the AT presentation state as a bonus. The presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to the AT presentation state based on the granting of the right to transition to the AT presentation state. In the CZ presentation state, the presentation state control means 81 can transition the presentation state to the AT presentation state at a predetermined trigger.

The presentation state control means 81 ends the CZ presentation state when the termination conditions for the CZ presentation state are met (for example, when a predetermined number of plays have been played in the CZ presentation state). When the termination conditions for the CZ presentation state are met, the presentation state control means 81 determines whether the right to transition to the AT presentation state has been granted, and if the right to transition to the AT presentation state has been granted, transitions the presentation state to the AT presentation state. On the other hand, if the right to transition to the AT presentation state has not been granted, transitions the presentation state to a non-advantageous zone presentation state. Note that if the right to transition to the AT presentation state has not been granted, the presentation state may transition to the normal presentation state.

In this embodiment, the batting order navigation effect can be executed in the CZ effect state, but the frequency with which the batting order navigation effect is executed is lower than in the AT effect state. Note that "low frequency" includes cases where the batting order navigation effect is not executed at all.

The bonus granting means 82 may conduct an AT lottery in the normal presentation state and grant the right to transition to the AT presentation state based on the winning of the AT lottery. In this case, the probability (expectation level) of determining a transition to the AT presentation state in the AT lottery in the CZ presentation state may be set higher than the probability of determining a transition to the AT presentation state in the normal presentation state. Furthermore, when the right to transition to the AT presentation state is granted based on the AT lottery in the normal presentation state, the presentation state control means 81 may transition to the AT presentation state via the CZ presentation state, or may transition directly to the AT presentation state without passing through the CZ presentation state. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when transitioning from one presentation state to another, the transition may be via another presentation state. For example, if the AT lottery is won in the CZ presentation state, the transition may be from the CZ presentation state to the AT presentation state via a preparation presentation state for the AT presentation state (AT preparation presentation state).

(AT performance state)
In the AT presentation state, the instruction function control means 51 determines to execute a batting order navigation presentation that notifies the player of the correct batting order based on the predetermined result (winning the "batting order plum" winning area) obtained in the internal lottery. When the execution of the batting order navigation presentation is determined, the presentation control means 100 executes a batting order navigation presentation that notifies the player of the correct batting order and assists in winning an eight-coin combination. The presentation control means 100 causes presentation devices such as the LCD display 13 and speaker 14 to execute the batting order navigation presentation. The presentation control means 100 also causes the game information display unit 17 to display a display corresponding to the correct batting order (a display corresponding to the operation mode of the stop button notified in the batting order navigation presentation). By pressing the stop buttons 26a-26c in accordance with the correct batting order notified in the batting order navigation presentation, the player can win an eight-coin combination and acquire eight medals. The AT presentation state in which the batting order navigation presentation is executed is a presentation state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal presentation state or the CZ presentation state.

In this embodiment, the continuation of the AT presentation state is managed by the number of plays in the AT presentation state. Specifically, the continuation of the AT presentation state is managed based on the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60. The bonus granting means 82 determines the value to be set in the AT end determination counter 67 at the start of the AT presentation state (increases the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67). In this embodiment, the bonus granting means 82 sets the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 to "50" at the start of the AT presentation state. Note that this value may be determined from multiple values by lottery, etc. In this embodiment, a value equivalent to the number of plays that can be played in the AT presentation state is set in the AT end determination counter 67 at the start of the AT presentation state. The stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 is updated each time a play is played in the AT presentation state. The AT presentation state ends when the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 reaches the threshold value "0."

The bonus granting means 82 conducts an additional lottery at a predetermined trigger (for example, when a predetermined role (winning area) is won) during the AT performance state. The additional lottery is a lottery that determines whether or not to increase the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 (i.e., the duration of the AT performance state). In the additional lottery, a predetermined random number value is obtained, and the obtained random number value is compared with an additional lottery table stored in the ROM of the storage means 60, and depending on the comparison result, it determines whether or not the additional lottery has been won and the increase in the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67. When the additional lottery is won, the bonus granting means 82 increases the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 by the determined increase.

The presentation state control means 81 performs a process of subtracting "1", which corresponds to one play, from the value stored in the AT end determination counter 67 each time a game is played in the AT presentation state (for example, triggered by a game start operation on the start lever 24). When the value stored in the AT end determination counter 67 reaches the threshold value "0", the presentation state control means 81 determines that the condition for ending the AT presentation state has been met, and ends the AT presentation state.

In this embodiment, the continuation of the AT presentation state is managed based on the number of games played in the AT presentation state. However, for example, it may also be managed based on the difference in the number of medals acquired in the AT presentation state. Furthermore, the continuation of the AT presentation state may also be managed based on the number of batting order navigation presentations executed in the AT presentation state. The stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 may represent the difference in the number of medals that can be acquired in the AT presentation state, the number of batting order navigation presentations that can be executed in the AT presentation state (the number of navigations), or the number of sets of AT presentation states that can be executed (the number of AT sets). When the AT presentation state begins, the AT end determination counter 67 is set with the difference in the number of medals that can be acquired, the number of navigations, or the number of AT sets. Furthermore, the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 is updated at predetermined times, such as each time a medal is paid out in the AT presentation state, each time a batting order navigation presentation is executed, or each time one set of AT presentation states is executed. The end condition of the AT presentation state may be met when the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 reaches the threshold value "0."

The presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to a non-advantageous zone presentation state when the termination conditions for the AT presentation state are met. It may also transition the presentation state to a normal presentation state when the termination conditions for the AT presentation state are met.

The bonus granting means 82 determines whether to transition to the special CZ presentation state at a predetermined trigger (for example, based on the stored value of the difference number counter 64 reaching a predetermined value (for example, "2400")) in the AT presentation state. The bonus granting means 82 determines to transition to the special CZ presentation state, for example, based on a specific result being obtained in a predetermined lottery. The presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to the special CZ presentation state based on the bonus granting means 82's decision to transition to the special CZ presentation state. In this embodiment, it is possible to transition to the special CZ presentation state at a predetermined trigger (for example, based on the end of the AT presentation state). Note that the presentation state control means 81 may transition to the special CZ presentation state after passing through another presentation state.

(Special CZ performance state)
In the special CZ presentation state, a predetermined number of games (for example, 30 games) are played, and whether or not to transition to the special presentation state described below is determined. If the bonus granting means 82 determines to transition to the special presentation state in the special CZ presentation state, the presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to the special presentation state. Note that in the special CZ presentation state, the batting order navigation presentation can be executed, but the frequency with which the batting order navigation presentation is executed is lower than in the AT presentation state.

In the special CZ presentation state, the presentation control means 100 executes an aim presentation based on a predetermined result (e.g., winning a predetermined winning area) obtained in an internal lottery. The aim presentation instructs (prompts) the player to perform a stop operation in a predetermined operating manner. In a game in which the aim presentation is executed, if a stop operation is performed in a predetermined operating manner, the reels 20a to 20c can be stopped in a predetermined stopping manner. In the aim presentation, the LCD display 13 displays a message (e.g., the words "reverse push") instructing the player to press the stop buttons 26a to 26c in a predetermined hitting order, and a message instructing the player to press the stop buttons at a predetermined timing so that a predetermined symbol (e.g., the gold 7 symbol "Gold 7") is displayed in a predetermined display position on the reels 20a to 20c. The predetermined operating manner is an operating manner in which the stop operation is performed in a predetermined hitting order and at a predetermined timing (with the aim of displaying the predetermined symbol).

Furthermore, a predetermined stopping pattern is, for example, a stopping pattern in which a predetermined symbol (e.g., the gold 7 symbol "Gold 7") is displayed in a predetermined display position (e.g., the middle row) on each of the three reels 20a-20c, and the three predetermined symbols stop in a straight line (aligned). The bonus granting means 82 determines a transition to a special effect state based on the reels 20a-20c stopping in the predetermined stopping pattern (a predetermined symbol combination being displayed in the predetermined display position). The effect state control means 81 transitions the effect state to a special effect state based on this determination. Note that the bonus granting means 82 may also determine a transition to the special effect state based on a win in a predetermined winning area, regardless of whether the reels 20a-20c stop in the predetermined stopping pattern during the game.

If the conditions for ending the special CZ presentation state are met without a decision to transition to the special presentation state (for example, when a predetermined number of plays (30) have been played), the presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to the AT presentation state. In this embodiment, if the special CZ presentation state ends without a decision to transition to the special presentation state, the AT presentation state is initiated. Note that a predetermined value may be set as the stored value of the AT termination determination counter 67 when the AT presentation state is initiated. Furthermore, the end of the special CZ presentation state may not result in a transition (return) to the AT presentation state, but rather a transition to a non-advantageous zone presentation state (or normal presentation state).

(Special performance state)
In the special effect state, the expected probability of receiving a bonus (profit) related to the batting order navigation effect is set higher than in the AT effect state, making it an effect state advantageous to the player. In the special effect state, the expected value for the increase in the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 is set higher than in the AT effect state. In the special effect state, for example, the frequency with which the additional lottery is executed may be set higher than in the AT effect state, the probability of winning the additional lottery may be set higher than in the AT effect state, or the expected value of the value set in the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67 when the additional lottery is won may be set higher than in the AT effect state. The special effect state is configured to end, for example, after a predetermined number of games (e.g., 30 games) have been played. The effect state control means 81 transitions the effect state to the AT effect state based on the establishment of the end condition of the special effect state.

In this embodiment, it is possible to transition directly from the normal presentation state to the AT presentation state or the special CZ presentation state. For example, in the CZ lottery in the normal presentation state, rather than simply determining whether or not to transition to the CZ presentation state, it is also possible to draw lots to determine whether the presentation state will transition to the AT presentation state, the special CZ presentation state, the CZ presentation state, or whether to remain in the normal presentation state and not transition.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is possible to transition directly from a non-advantageous zone presentation state to a CZ presentation state, an AT presentation state, or a special CZ presentation state. For example, in the advantageous zone transition lottery, rather than simply determining whether or not to transition to an advantageous zone (normal presentation state), it is also possible to draw lots to determine whether the presentation state will transition to an AT presentation state, a special CZ presentation state, a CZ presentation state, a normal presentation state, or whether to remain in the non-advantageous zone presentation state and not transition.

The AT presentation state may also be set according to the game state to which a transition occurs based on a bonus win or prize. For example, a transition to the AT presentation state may be possible when the game state is in the RBB internal state, and transition to the AT presentation state may not be possible in the general state or the RBB operating state. In other words, in the general state or the RBB operating state, for example, a transition to the AT presentation state may not occur even if the AT lottery is won, and the AT lottery may not be held.

Also, if a bonus is won when the presentation state is the AT presentation state and the game state is in the RBB internal state, the AT presentation state may be suspended after the RBB operating state, which is entered upon winning the bonus, ends and the game transitions back to the RBB internal state via the general internal state. In other words, the batting order navigation presentation may be stopped when a bonus is won, and resumed when the game transitions back to the RBB internal state.

When the advantageous zone ends and the play zone transitions to a non-advantageous zone, the instruction function control means 51 performs an instruction function information initialization process to initialize information stored in the RAM of the storage means 60 as information related to the instruction function. Specifically, the instruction function control means 51 initializes the stored value of the advantageous zone play count counter 65, the stored value of the difference number counter 64, the flag (lottery result) related to the lottery related to the instruction function, and the stored value of the AT end determination counter 67. In other words, information related to the instruction function (instruction effect) is not carried over across multiple advantageous zones. Furthermore, when the initialization means 48 performs the above-mentioned initialization process when the setting value is changed, the information related to the instruction function (instruction effect) shown here is also initialized.

In this embodiment, when the gaming state is in the RBB internal state, the instruction function control means 51 (presentation control means 100) performs lottery-related operations related to instruction functions (for example, lottery-related operations related to transition to the AT presentation state), granting of bonuses related to the batting order navigation presentation (for example, bonuses that increase the probability of transitioning to the AT presentation state), and processing related to instruction functions such as the batting order navigation presentation. However, when the gaming state is in the general state or the RBB active state, it does not perform lottery-related operations related to instruction functions, granting of bonuses related to the batting order navigation presentation, or processing related to instruction functions such as the batting order navigation presentation.

In this embodiment, in the RBB internal state (bonus internal state), stop control of reels 20a to 20c is executed so that symbol combinations indicating a big bonus (RBB) winning form do not appear on the pay line, regardless of the result of the internal lottery (and regardless of the type of stop operation). In other words, in this embodiment, once the gaming state is set to the RBB internal state, play continues in the RBB internal state thereafter. For this reason, in this embodiment, play is basically carried out in the RBB internal state. The following explanation will be given assuming that the gaming state is basically the RBB internal state.

In this embodiment, in the normal state and the RBB internal state, the "Baten Plum" winning area is set so that 8-coin roles do not overlap, while in the RBB activated state (bonus activated state), the "Small Role ALL" winning area is set so that 8-coin roles overlap. The winning probability of the "Small Role ALL" winning area in the RBB activated state is set higher than the winning probability of the "Baten Plum" winning area in other game states. Furthermore, the probability of winning the "Small Role ALL" winning area in the RBB activated state is set lower than the probability of winning any of the "Baten Plum" winning areas in other game states. This reduces the chances of winning an 8-coin role in the RBB activated state compared to other game states, lowering the expected payout rate when a bonus is activated.

As shown in FIG. 25, the sub-control board 32 is equipped with a sub-effect control means 70 and a sub-memory (sub-storage means) 72. Based on the effect data stored in the sub-memory 72, the sub-effect control means 70 controls effects performed using the LCD display 13, the speaker 14, and lamps (lighting devices). For example, the sub-effect control means 70 controls the execution of effects to liven up or assist the game according to the progress of the game, by turning on or blinking the lighting device in response to the insertion of medals, operation of the bet button 23, start lever 24, and stop buttons 26a-26c, or the occurrence of game events such as changes in the game status, changing the display content of the LCD display 13, or outputting sound from the speaker 14.

The content of the effects executed during play is determined using an effect lottery table stored in sub-memory 72 in response to commands (information) sent from the main control board 31 in response to the game status, effect status, internal lottery results, etc. In this embodiment, image data stored in the ROM of sub-memory 72 is read into an image buffer provided in sub-memory 72, and an image based on the image data read into the image buffer is output (displayed) on the LCD display 13. In addition, sound data stored in the ROM of sub-memory 72 is read into a sound buffer provided in sub-memory 72, and sound based on the sound data read into the sound buffer is output from speaker 14.

Gaming machines need to be designed so that the payout rate (the ratio of the number of medals paid out to the number of medals inserted), which is an indicator of medal acquisition performance, falls within a specified range. In this embodiment of the gaming machine, the expected payout rate when play can be continued by pressing left is set lower than when play can be continued by pressing the center or right button. This basically recommends playing by pressing left, and ensures an appropriate payout rate (ball-out performance).

In this embodiment, for the RBB internal state, a batting order plum in which the center button is pressed to get the correct batting order and a batting order plum in which the right button is pressed to get the correct batting order are prepared, but a batting order plum in which the left button is pressed to get the correct batting order are not prepared. In other words, in this embodiment, if you always play by pressing left, the probability of winning the batting order plum and receiving a payout of 8 medals is lower than if you always play by pressing center or always play by pressing right. In other words, if you continue playing by pressing irregular buttons to stop the game, the probability of winning an 8-coin role is higher than if you continue playing by pressing left to stop the game.
The 8-coin combination can be said to be a combination that, if won, will enable a player to acquire more game value than the medals (game value) bet for one game. The 8-coin combination can also be said to be a combination that, if won, will enable a player to acquire a larger number of medals (game value) payout than the number of medals (game value) inserted to start a game. The 1-coin combination can also be said to be a combination that, if won, will enable a player to acquire a number of game value equal to or less than the game value bet for one game.

In addition, other methods may be used to set the expected payout rate when playing with a specific operation sequence (pushing left) to be lower than when playing with other operation sequences (pushing middle or pushing right). For example, a batting order plan in which pressing left is the correct batting order may also be prepared, and the probability of winning the batting order plan in the internal lottery with pressing left may be set lower than the probability of winning the batting order plan with pressing middle, and lower than the probability of winning the batting order plan with the correct batting order with pressing right.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 27, the batting order plum has any of batting orders 3 through 6 set as the correct batting order, while batting orders 1 and 2 are set as the incorrect batting orders. In other words, when looking at the batting order plum as a whole, there is a bias in the correct batting order settings. When the batting order plum is stopped by pressing the left button, a 1-coin role (incorrect role) is awarded. When the batting order plum is stopped by pressing the center button or the right button, an 8-coin role (correct role) is awarded if the batting order is correct, and a 1-coin role (incorrect role) or no role is awarded if the batting order is incorrect. The batting order plum is a winning area where the number of medals paid out varies (changes) depending on the batting order (the operation mode (operation sequence) of the stop buttons 26a to 26c).

In the normal presentation state, even if the batting order navigation effect is won, the frequency with which it is decided to execute the effect is set low, and the probability of winning an 8-coin combination is low. In this normal presentation state, if play is continued using irregular button presses, the probability of winning an 8-coin combination is higher than if play is continued using left button presses, which could result in excessive ball output performance from the gaming machine. In this embodiment, the normal presentation state is a period during which play using left button presses is recommended (left button press recommended period). Note that the left button press recommended period may also include the CZ presentation state described above. In this embodiment, in games in which the batting order navigation effect is not executed, play using left button presses is recommended.

If a game is played using irregular button presses during the recommended left press period, a notification is issued to encourage the player to play using left presses. Specifically, the presentation control means 100 displays a left press recommendation indicator on the LCD display 13. The left press recommendation indicator encourages the player to press the stop buttons 26a-26c with the left button pressed, and is a horizontally long rectangular indicator containing the words "Left press recommended" (in white text). If a game is played using irregular button presses during a recommended left press period, the presentation control means 100 displays the left press recommendation indicator based on the third stop operation for that game. Note that "based on the third stop operation" may be based on the detection of the release of the last stop button press or the detection of the last stop button press. If a certain period of time (e.g., 7 seconds) has elapsed while the left press recommendation indicator is displayed, the presentation control means 100 hides the left press recommendation indicator. In other words, the left push recommendation message will be displayed for a certain period of time after the third stop operation and then disappear.

In addition, if a game is played using irregular button presses during the recommended left button press period, the player may be given (imposed) a disadvantage (penalty) in which the specified processing related to the batting order navigation effect is not executed. Alternatively, the system may be set up so that if the game is played using left button presses, the player will not be penalized and will have an advantage. In other words, the probability that the specified processing related to the batting order navigation effect will be executed (a specified advantage will be awarded) may be higher when the game is played using left button presses than when the game is played using irregular button presses.

Specifically, in the normal presentation state or CZ presentation state during the bonus internal state, if play is performed by pressing left, a predetermined process related to the batting order navigation presentation may be executed, whereas if play is performed by pressing irregularly, the predetermined process may not be executed. In other words, in a predetermined game in which the batting order navigation presentation is not executed, playing by pressing left may be more advantageous to the player in terms of the batting order navigation presentation (transition of presentation states, etc.) than playing by pressing irregularly. In further other words, in this embodiment, in a predetermined game in which the batting order navigation presentation is not executed, a predetermined penalty may be imposed on a player who plays using an operation mode other than pressing left. The predetermined process related to the batting order navigation presentation may be, for example, a predetermined lottery such as a CZ lottery or an AT lottery. Furthermore, in the normal presentation state, gameplay may be provided in which predetermined points related to transition to the CZ presentation state (or AT presentation state) are accumulated, and when the bonus awarding means 82 awards those points as a bonus at a predetermined trigger, the predetermined processing related to the batting order navigation presentation may be processing to award those points (processing to update a counter that, when updated, is advantageous to the player). Furthermore, in the case where an upper limit (so-called ceiling) is set for the number of plays in a predetermined presentation state (for example, the normal presentation state), and gameplay is provided in which transition to another presentation state (for example, the CZ presentation state or the AT presentation state) is possible when the number of plays reaches that upper limit, the predetermined processing related to the batting order navigation presentation may be processing to reduce the number of plays remaining until the ceiling (processing to count the number of plays in the predetermined presentation state).

As described above, there are six possible operation sequences (operation modes) for stop buttons 26a-26c: batting order 1 to batting order 6. Of the six operation modes, the operation mode in which stop button 26a is operated first (batting order 1 and batting order 2) is referred to as the first operation mode (left press), and the operation mode in which stop button 26b is operated first (batting order 3 and batting order 4) is referred to as the second operation mode (center press). The first operation mode can be referred to as the "left first operation mode," and the second operation mode as the "center first operation mode." Note that the operation mode in which stop button 26c is operated first (batting order 5 and batting order 6) can be referred to as the third operation mode (right press), which can also be referred to as the "right first operation mode." In the following description of this embodiment, center press is referred to as the second operation mode, but the second operation mode is not limited to center press and can also be right press.

In this embodiment, the ratio (first ratio) of the total amount of game value paid out to the total amount of game value inserted when a predetermined number of games are played in the first operation mode is lower than the ratio (second ratio) of the total amount of game value paid out to the total amount of game value inserted when the predetermined number of games are played in the second operation mode. In other words, the ratio of the total amount of game value paid out to the total amount of game value inserted when the predetermined number of games are played is lower when playing in the first operation mode than when playing in the second operation mode.

In this embodiment, in a game in which one of the winning areas "Reach Eye Replay 1" to "Reach Eye Replay 9" shown in Figure 26 is won, if the stop operation is performed using the first operation mode, reels 20a to 20c will stop in a stop mode related to the reach eye (a symbol combination indicating a winning form of a specified replay will be displayed on the pay line), but if the stop operation is performed using the second operation mode, reels 20a to 20c will not stop in a stop mode related to the reach eye (a symbol combination indicating a winning form of a replay different from the specified replay will be displayed on the pay line).

A stop pattern associated with a reach-eye effect (a stop pattern indicating the award of a bonus) is, for example, a stop pattern in which two predetermined symbols are displayed in a predetermined straight line (e.g., the middle line), but three of these symbols are not displayed side by side. In this embodiment, when a player wins one of the winning areas "Reach-eye Replay 1" to "Reach-eye Replay 9," the player may be awarded a predetermined bonus (e.g., a bonus associated with the batting order navigation effect) when reels 20a to 20c stop in a reach-eye effect. Therefore, in a game in which the batting order navigation effect is not executed, if the player continues playing by performing a stop operation using the second operation mode, reels 20a to 20c will not stop in a reach-eye effect, reducing the opportunity to win a bonus (reducing gameplay). For this reason, it is recommended that the player play using the first operation mode (pushing left) in games in which the batting order navigation effect is not executed.

(Specific winning conditions)
As shown in FIG. 26, the winning area "1 Plum 1" (specific winning mode) is a winning area where multiple types of 1-piece roles (small role 10, small role 17, small role 18, and small role 19) are won in overlapping fashion. In other words, the small roles included in the winning area "1 Plum 1" are small role 10, small role 17, small role 18, and small role 19. When the winning area "1 Plum 1" is won, small role 10, small role 17, small role 18, and small role 19 are won in overlapping fashion, and the winning state is set.

If the winning area "1 Plum 1" (area number 33) is won in the internal lottery (in a game in which the winning area "1 Plum 1" is won), and a stop operation is performed in the first operation mode (left push), the reel control means 43 controls so that a symbol combination indicating the winning form of minor win 17 is displayed on the active line. Also, if the winning area "1 Plum 1" (area number 33) is won in the internal lottery (in a game in which the winning area "1 Plum 1" is won), and a stop operation is performed in the second operation mode (center push), the reel control means 43 controls so that a symbol combination indicating the winning form of minor win 17 is displayed on the active line. If the winning area "1 Plum 1" is won in the internal lottery, the same minor win (minor win 17) will be won whether the stop operation is performed in the first operation mode or the second operation mode.

The minor winning combination 17 is a combination where the symbols making up the winning combination are always positioned within the reel pull range (0 to 4 frames) for all reels 20a to 20c, regardless of the timing of the stop operation (PB = 1 combination). Note that a combination where the symbols making up the winning combination are positioned such that they may not be within the reel pull range (0 to 4 frames) for at least one of reels 20a to 20c depending on the timing of the stop operation is called a PB ≠ 1 combination.

Figure 33 shows an example of a case where a symbol combination indicating a winning mode of minor win 17 is displayed on an active line. When a symbol combination indicating a winning mode of minor win 17 is displayed on an active line, the reels 20a to 20c stop in a specific stopping mode. This specific stopping mode is an upper plum alignment stopping mode, in which the plum symbol "PL" is displayed (stopped) on the upper row of each reel, and three plum symbols "PL" line up (align) in a straight line (on the upper row line). When reels 20a to 20c stop in this upper plum alignment stopping mode, a specific plum symbol "PL" is displayed on the active line (on the upper row of reel 20c). Here, the plum symbol "PL" displayed on the active line is referred to as a "specific symbol."

When the winning area "1 Plum 1" (area number 33) is selected in the internal lottery (in a game in which the winning area "1 Plum 1") is selected), the effect control means 100 can execute an effect when the next lever is pressed, triggered by the start operation of the game (pressing the start lever 24).

(Lever press effect)
The lever press effect is an effect in which a display corresponding to a specific symbol (specific symbol display) and a display corresponding to other symbols provided on the reels (symbols different from the specific symbol, for example, a replay symbol "RP," a cherry symbol "CH," or a bell symbol "BL") (other symbol display) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 13. FIG. 34 shows a case in which the lever press effect is executed and a specific symbol display (a display corresponding to a plum symbol "PL") and an other symbol display (a display corresponding to a cherry symbol "CH") are displayed on the liquid crystal display 13. Note that which symbol the other symbol display corresponds to may be determined by lottery, for example. When the lever press effect is executed, the player can understand that a specific symbol or other symbol may be displayed in a predetermined display position (the upper, middle, or lower row of the reels) in the game.

In this embodiment, when the reels stop spinning and the cherry symbol "CH" is displayed in a predetermined display position, the expectation of a bonus is set higher (more advantageous for the player) than when a specific symbol (plum symbol "PL") is displayed in the predetermined display position. Bonuses include a bonus related to the batting order navigation effect. A higher expectation of a bonus means, for example, that when the cherry symbol "CH" is displayed in a predetermined display position, the probability of a lottery being held to determine whether or not a transition to a presentation state advantageous to the player (a presentation state with a high expectation of gaining game value) is set higher than when a specific symbol (plum symbol "PL") is displayed in the predetermined display position. The probability of the lottery being held is the same when a specific symbol (plum symbol "PL") is displayed and when a cherry symbol "CH" is displayed, but the probability of winning the lottery (i.e., the probability of a transition to a favorable presentation state) may be set higher in the latter case. When the lever press effect shown in Figure 34 is executed, the player can feel a sense of anticipation as they hope that the cherry symbol "CH" will be displayed in the specified display position.

Furthermore, when the winning area "1 Plum 1" (area number 33) is won in the internal lottery (in a game in which the winning area "1 Plum 1") is won), the effect control means 100 can execute a predetermined effect (the first effect or the second effect shown below) at a predetermined trigger (triggered by the stop operation of the stop button 26), and the effect control means 100 switches which effect to execute depending on the operation mode of the stop operation of the stop button 26. Note that the predetermined effect may also be executed when the effect when the lever is pressed is executed.

(1st performance)
When a game in which the "1 Plum 1" winning area is won is stopped using the first operation mode (left push), the effect control means 100 can execute a first effect (specific effect) at a predetermined trigger (based on the third stop operation). The first effect is an effect that suggests (notifies) a specific symbol (plum symbol "PL"). Figure 35(a) shows a state in which the first effect is executed based on a stop operation using the first operation mode (left push). Specifically, it shows a state in which a specific symbol display corresponding to the specific symbol (plum symbol "PL") is displayed on the liquid crystal display 13. Note that "suggesting a specific symbol" is not limited to displaying a specific symbol display corresponding to the specific symbol (directly indicating the specific symbol), but may also include any effect that can suggest the specific symbol, such as changing the color of a character's clothing to a color corresponding to the specific symbol. The first effect can be said to be an effect corresponding to a symbol (specific symbol) displayed on the pay line.

In this embodiment, the first effect is executed when the third stop operation is detected, but this is not limited to this, and it may also be executed when the release of the third stop operation is detected. By executing the first effect, the player can not only see the stopping state of reels 20a-20c (the stopping state of the upper row plum alignment), but also understand the stopping of the specific pattern (the result of the game) through the display on the LCD display 13. When the first effect is executed while the lever press effect is being executed, the LCD display 13 changes from a state in which multiple types of pattern displays are displayed to a state in which only the specific pattern display is displayed.

(Second performance)
In a game in which the "1 Plum 1" winning area is won, the effect control means 100 may execute a second effect, different from the first effect, upon a predetermined trigger (based on a third stop operation) when a stop operation is performed using the second operation mode (center press). The second effect is an effect in which a predetermined display object that does not suggest any symbol (does not correspond to any symbol) is displayed. The predetermined display object may be, for example, a character (including a symbol), and in this embodiment, the character "?" is displayed. Figure 35(b) shows a state in which the second effect is executed based on a stop operation performed using the second operation mode (center press), and a predetermined display object (the character "?") that does not suggest any symbol is displayed on the LCD display 13. When the second effect is executed, even though the reels 20a to 20c have stopped in a specific stop mode (a stop mode with the top row of plums aligned), the predetermined display object (the character "?") is displayed (the reel stop mode and the LCD display do not match), causing the player to feel uncomfortable. The player can recognize that a predetermined display object has been displayed based on the fact that the stop operation has been performed in the second operation mode instead of the first operation mode. When the second effect is executed while the lever press effect is being executed, the liquid crystal display 13 changes from a state in which multiple types of symbol displays were displayed to a state in which the predetermined display object is displayed.

As described above, the gaming machine of this embodiment recommends using the left button (first operation mode) when playing in a game in which the batting order navigation effect is not executed. Furthermore, in a game in which the "1 Plum 1" winning area is won, the second effect can be executed if the stop operation is performed using the second operation mode (middle press). When the second effect is executed and a predetermined display (the character "?") is displayed, the player can be (indirectly) encouraged to perform the stop operation using the first operation mode (left button) rather than the second operation mode (middle press).

Furthermore, as described above, the gaming machine of this embodiment displays a left push recommendation display on the liquid crystal display 13 when a game is played using the second operation mode during the left push recommended period. The presentation control means 100 displays the left push recommendation display in response to the third stop operation of the game (detection of the release of the press), and after a certain period of time (e.g., 7 seconds) has passed, the left push recommendation display is no longer displayed.

As shown in FIG. 36 , after the third stop operation of the game, the display of a predetermined display object (the "?" character) related to the second effect and the left push recommendation display overlap for a certain period of time (a fixed period of time) on the LCD display 13. In this embodiment, the left push recommendation display is set to have a higher display priority than other display objects such as the predetermined display object (the "?" character), and the left push recommendation display is displayed in front of (visually perceived as being in front of) the predetermined display object. Furthermore, after a certain period of time has passed, the left push recommendation display is no longer displayed, and the predetermined display object (the "?" character) is displayed. Note that the predetermined display object may continue to be displayed until the start operation of the next game is performed. Furthermore, the predetermined display object and the left push recommendation display may be displayed in positions where they do not overlap each other. By displaying both the predetermined display object and the left push recommendation display when a stop operation is performed using the second operation mode, the player can be more clearly notified that left push is recommended and the player can be encouraged to play by pushing left.

The left push recommendation display (a display encouraging a stop operation in the first operation mode) can be said to be a predetermined display that does not suggest any design, and the effect of displaying the left push recommendation display may be the second effect.

In this embodiment, when a game in which the winning area "1 Plum 1" (area number 33) is won and the plum symbol "PL" is displayed as a specific symbol on the pay line (when the first operation mode or the second operation mode is used to stop the reel), the first effect is executed when the reel is stopped in the first operation mode, and the second effect is executed when the reel is stopped in the second operation mode. However, this is not limited to this. When a game in which a specific winning area (specific winning mode) other than the winning area "1 Plum 1" is won and a specific symbol (for example, a cherry symbol "CH," a replay symbol "RP," or a bell symbol "BL") is displayed on the pay line, the first effect suggesting the specific symbol may be executed when the reel is stopped in the first operation mode, and the second effect suggesting none of the symbols may be executed when the reel is stopped in the second operation mode.

The gaming machine of this embodiment is
A plurality of reels (e.g., reels 20a to 20c) on which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged,
a plurality of stop buttons (e.g., stop buttons 26a to 26c) capable of performing a stop operation to stop the rotation of the plurality of reels;
An internal lottery means (for example, the internal lottery means 42) for performing an internal lottery to determine whether a winning combination is achieved;
reel control means (for example, reel control means 43) for controlling the stopping of the plurality of reels in a manner according to the result of the internal lottery based on the stopping operation;
A performance control means (for example, the performance control means 100) for controlling the performance,
The reel control means is capable of stopping the plurality of reels and displaying a symbol combination indicating a predetermined winning form for each winning combination on an active line;
the plurality of reels includes a first reel and a second reel,
the plurality of stop buttons include a first stop button corresponding to the first reel and a second stop button corresponding to the second reel;
the operation modes relating to the stop operations of the plurality of stop buttons include a first operation mode in which the first stop button is first operated to stop, and a second operation mode in which the second stop button is first operated to stop,
a ratio of a total payout amount of game value to a total input amount of game value when a predetermined number of games are played is lower when the game is played in the first operation mode than when the game is played in the second operation mode;
The winning patterns obtained in the internal lottery include specific winning patterns (for example, the winning area "1 Plum 1");
The specific winning mode is a winning mode in which a specific symbol is displayed on the pay line when the stop operation is performed in the first operation mode or the stop operation is performed in the second operation mode,
The effect control means is capable of executing a specific effect suggesting the specific symbol when the stop operation is performed in the first operation mode in a game in which the specific winning pattern has been obtained in the internal lottery, and is capable of executing an effect different from the specific effect when the stop operation is performed in the second operation mode.

When a predetermined number of games are played, the ratio of the total amount of game value paid out to the total amount of game value inserted is lower when playing using the first operation mode than when playing using the second operation mode. Furthermore, when a specific winning mode is achieved, if a stop operation is performed using the first operation mode, a specific symbol will be displayed on the pay line, and a specific effect suggesting the specific symbol may be executed. On the other hand, when a specific winning mode is achieved, if a stop operation is performed using the second operation mode, a specific symbol will be displayed on the pay line, but an effect different from the specific effect may be executed. Even though a specific symbol is displayed on the pay line, an effect different from the specific effect may be executed, and the player may recognize that the specific effect was not executed because the stop operation was performed using the second operation mode. This encourages the player to play using the first operation mode rather than the second operation mode.

In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment,
In a game in which the specific winning pattern is obtained by the internal lottery, a symbol combination showing the same winning pattern of a minor role is displayed on the effective line when the stop operation is performed in the first operation mode and when the stop operation is performed in the second operation mode.

In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment,
The effect control means is capable of executing an effect in which, when the stop operation is performed in the second operation mode in a game in which the specific winning pattern has been obtained in the internal lottery, a predetermined display object that does not suggest any pattern is displayed.

Even though a specific symbol appears on the pay line, a predetermined display object that does not suggest any symbol is displayed, which may lead the player to believe that the display object was displayed and that the specific effect was not executed based on the stop operation performed using the second operation mode. This encourages the player to play using the first operation mode instead of the second operation mode.

In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment,
The presentation control means is capable of executing a presentation in which, when the stop operation is performed in the second operation mode in a game in which the specific winning pattern has been obtained in the internal lottery, a display object is displayed to prompt the stop operation in the first operation mode.

If a stop operation is performed using the second operation mode, a display prompting the player to perform the stop operation using the first operation mode is displayed, thereby encouraging the player to play using the first operation mode instead of the second operation mode.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The gaming machine of this embodiment has basically the same configuration as the gaming machine of the third embodiment, and therefore, the description of the similar configuration will be omitted or simplified.

In this embodiment, at least one of the winning areas "1 Plum 2" or "1 Plum 2" shown in Figure 26 is the specific winning pattern. When the specific winning pattern is won in the internal lottery (in a game in which the specific winning pattern is won), and a stop operation is performed in a specific operation pattern (described below), the reel control means 43 stops the reels 20a to 20c in a specific stopping pattern. The specific stopping pattern is a stopping pattern in which the gold 7 symbol "Gold 7" is displayed (stopped) in the middle row of each reel, and three gold 7 symbols "Gold 7" are lined up (aligned) in a straight line (on the middle line). Figure 37 shows the case in which the reels 20a to 20c stop in a specific stopping pattern.

A specific operation mode is an operation mode in which the stopping operation is performed in a specific hitting order (pressing the center or right button) and at a specific timing (correct pressing timing). A specific timing is a timing when a specific symbol (the gold 7 symbol "Gold 7") can be displayed in a specific display position (for example, the middle of the reel). In other words, it is a timing when a symbol within a specific range that includes the specific symbol (the gold 7 symbol "Gold 7") is located in a specific display position (for example, on an active line).

In a game in which a specific winning pattern is obtained, if a stop operation is performed in a specific operation pattern while the reels are spinning, the reel control means 43 pulls in the specific symbol (the gold 7 symbol, "Gold 7") to the middle of the reel and displays it. In other words, the reel control means 43 stops the reels 20a to 20c in a specific stop pattern. In this embodiment, in a game in which a specific winning pattern is obtained, by performing a stop operation in a specific hitting order and at a specific timing (with the aim of displaying the specific symbol in a predetermined display position), it is possible to stop the reels 20a to 20c in a specific stop pattern.

As described above, a predetermined number of plays (30 plays) are played in the special CZ presentation state. In this embodiment, when the special CZ presentation state begins, the memory value of the special CZ end determination counter (not shown) provided in the RAM of the storage means 60 is set to "30." Each time a play is played in the special CZ presentation state (triggered by a game start operation on the start lever 24), the presentation state control means 81 subtracts "1" from the memory value of the special CZ end determination counter and determines whether the memory value has reached the threshold value "0" (whether the conditions for ending the special CZ presentation state have been met). When the memory value reaches the threshold value "0," the presentation state control means 81 ends the special CZ presentation state.

(Continuous performance)
The effect control means 100 executes (starts) a continuation effect at a predetermined trigger, i.e., when the stored value of the special CZ end determination counter reaches a predetermined value. The continuation effect is an effect (series of effects) that is executed continuously over (across) a predetermined number of games (three in this embodiment), and can also be called a continuous effect. In this embodiment, the continuous effect is a battle effect in which a first character (protagonist character) and a second character (enemy character) fight on the liquid crystal display 13.

In this embodiment, a continuous effect (battle effect) is executed during the final predetermined number of plays (three plays) in the special CZ effect state. The 28th play in the special CZ effect state is the first play of the continuous effect (hereinafter referred to as the first play). The 29th play in the special CZ effect state is the second play of the continuous effect (hereinafter referred to as the second play). The 30th play in the special CZ effect state is the third play of the continuous effect (hereinafter referred to as the third play). By executing a battle effect at the end of the special CZ effect state, which determines whether the player will transition to the special effect state, the excitement of the game can be increased.

The bonus granting means 82 may grant the right to transition to the special presentation state based on the winning of a specific winning pattern during the last three plays in the special CZ presentation state. Below, we will explain what happens when a specific winning pattern is won and what happens when a specific winning pattern is not won for each of the first to third plays.

(First game)
The bonus granting means 82 does not grant the right to transition to the special presentation state if a predetermined winning mode (winning area) other than the specific winning mode is won in the first game (if the specific winning mode is not won). Furthermore, the presentation control means 100 starts a continuous presentation (executes a battle presentation during the first game) if a predetermined winning mode other than the specific winning mode is won in the first game (if the specific winning mode is not won). A battle between the first character and the second character begins on the liquid crystal display 13.

On the other hand, if a specific winning mode is won in the first game, the bonus granting means 82 grants the player the right to transition to a special effect state. Furthermore, if a specific winning mode is won in the first game, the effect control means 100 executes an effect (first effect) that prompts (instructs) the player to perform a stop operation using a specific operation mode. Figure 38 shows the state after the first effect has been executed. In the first effect, a message (e.g., the words "reverse push") prompting the player to perform a stop operation using a specific stroke order (e.g., right push) and a message prompting the player to perform a stop operation at a specific timing so that a specific symbol (the gold 7 symbol "Gold 7") is displayed in a predetermined display position are displayed on the liquid crystal display 13. Note that when the first effect is executed, the background of the display screen may be darkened. The first effect can be referred to as a "go for gold 7" effect. If a specific winning mode is won in the first game, and a stop operation is performed using the specific operation mode, the reels 20a to 20c will stop in a specific stop mode (a stop mode in which gold 7s are lined up).

In this embodiment, the bonus granting means 82 grants the right to transition to a special presentation state based on winning a specific winning pattern in the first game, regardless of the stopping pattern of the reels 20a to 20c. In other words, the right to transition to a special presentation state is granted even if the reels 20a to 20c do not stop in the specific stopping pattern (the stopping pattern of seven gold symbols) in that game (if they stop in a stopping pattern different from the specific stopping pattern).

When the reels 20a-20c come to a stop (ending the first effect), the effect control means 100 notifies the player that a transition to the special effect state has been decided (executes the special effect). The special effect may, for example, notify the player that the first character has defeated the second character, or may display a congratulatory message such as "CONGRATULATION." The effect state control means 81 also transitions the effect state to the special effect state. If a transition to the special effect state is decided in the first game, the second and third games will not be executed and the special effect state will begin.

In this way, if the specific winning mode is not won in the first game, a consecutive effect is executed. On the other hand, if the specific winning mode is won in the first game, the first effect (Aim for Gold 7 effect) is executed, and a special effect is executed after the first effect.

In this embodiment, the right to transition to the special presentation state is granted based on winning a specific winning pattern in the first game. However, the right to transition to the special presentation state (the transition to the special presentation state is determined) may also be granted based on winning a specific winning pattern in the first game and reels 20a-20c stopping in a specific stopping pattern (a stopping pattern of seven gold symbols). In this case, the first presentation is executed in response to winning a specific winning pattern in the first game, and the special presentation is executed when reels 20a-20c stop in the specific stopping pattern (a stopping pattern of seven gold symbols).

(Second game)
The bonus granting means 82 does not grant the right to transition to the special presentation state if a predetermined winning mode other than the specific winning mode is won in the second game (if the specific winning mode is not won). Furthermore, the presentation control means 100 executes (continues) a continuous presentation if a predetermined winning mode other than the specific winning mode is won in the second game (if the specific winning mode is not won). The presentation control means 100 executes a defeat presentation as a continuous presentation at a predetermined trigger in the second game (for example, based on a third stop operation related to the second game), and notifies the player that the first character has been defeated by the second character (for example, the first character is brought to a collapsed state).

On the other hand, the bonus granting means 82 grants the right to transition to a special presentation state if a specific winning pattern is won in the second game. The bonus granting means 82 grants the right to transition to a special presentation state based on the winning of a specific winning pattern in the second game, regardless of the stopping pattern of the reels 20a to 20c. Furthermore, if a specific winning pattern is won in the second game, the presentation control means 100 executes (starts) a second presentation (of a different pattern) from the first presentation at a predetermined trigger in the second game (for example, based on a third stop operation related to the second game). Unlike the first presentation, the second presentation does not prompt the player to perform a stop operation in a specific operation pattern. In this embodiment, the second presentation is a presentation (PUSH presentation) that prompts the player to press the presentation button 25. Figure 39 shows the state after the second presentation has been executed. In the second effect, the background of the display screen of the liquid crystal display 13 goes dark (the background becomes black), and an image (display) imitating the effect button 25 and the word "PUSH" are displayed on the liquid crystal display 13. Note that if a specific winning mode is won in the second game, the effect control means 100 executes a continuous effect (the same effect as the effect executed if the specific winning mode is not won) until the second effect is started.

The effect control means 100 notifies the player that a transition to the special effect state has been decided upon at a predetermined trigger (for example, upon detecting the pressing of the effect button 25), causing a special effect to be executed. Furthermore, the effect state control means 81 transitions the effect state to the special effect state. If a transition to the special effect state is decided upon in the second game, the third game is not executed and the special effect state is initiated.

In this way, if the specific winning mode is not won in the second game, a continuous effect is executed, and the third stop operation is triggered to execute a defeat effect as a continuous effect. On the other hand, if the specific winning mode is won in the second game, the continuous effect is executed up to the third stop operation, and the third stop operation is triggered to execute the second effect (the defeat effect is not executed), and a special effect is executed when the effect button 25 is pressed.

(Third Game)
The bonus granting means 82 does not grant the right to transition to the special presentation state when a predetermined winning mode other than the specific winning mode is won in the third game (when the specific winning mode is not won). Also, the presentation control means 100 executes (continues) the continuous presentation when a predetermined winning mode other than the specific winning mode is won in the third game (when the specific winning mode is not won).

On the other hand, if a specific winning pattern is won in the third game, the bonus awarding means 82 awards the right to transition to a special presentation state. The bonus awarding means 82 awards the right to transition to a special presentation state based on the winning of a specific winning pattern in the third game, regardless of the stopping pattern of the reels 20a to 20c.

The effect control means 100 executes a continuous effect (the same effect as that executed when the specific winning mode is not won) even if a specific winning mode is won in the third game. In other words, the effect control means 100 executes a continuous effect, a rapid-fire instruction effect (final continuous effect effect), at a predetermined trigger, even if a specific winning mode is won in the third game, or even if a predetermined winning mode other than the specific winning mode is won in the third game. The rapid-fire instruction effect is an effect that encourages the continuous pressing (rapid pressing) of the effect button 25. In the rapid-fire instruction effect, an image (display object) that resembles the effect button 25 and the word "rapid" are displayed on the LCD display 13.

The presentation state control means 81 determines whether the right to transition to the special presentation state has been granted in the third game, and if it determines that the right has been granted, it decides to transition to the special presentation state. On the other hand, if it determines that the right has not been granted, it does not decide to transition to the special presentation state (it decides to transition to a presentation state different from the special presentation state). Note that, in the first through 27th games in the special CZ presentation state (games before the continuous presentation starts), a lottery is held to determine whether or not to transition to the special presentation state, triggered by a win in a specified winning area in an internal lottery, and the bonus granting means 82 may grant the right to transition to the special presentation state based on the win in the lottery, and the right may be granted (stocked).

The effect control means 100 switches the effect to be executed after the rapid-fire instruction effect depending on whether or not the right to transition to the special effect state has been granted. If the right has been granted, the effect control means 100 notifies that a transition to the special effect state has been decided (executes a special effect). In this special effect, for example, the first character that has been lying down stands up, and the first character's victory is announced (notified). The effect state control means 81 also transitions the effect state to the special effect state. On the other hand, if the right has not been granted, the effect control means 100 notifies that a transition to the special effect state has not been decided. For example, the first character remains lying down (does not get up), and the first character's defeat is announced.

In this way, in the third game, whether or not a specific winning mode is won, a continuous effect (rapid-hit instruction effect) is executed, and if the right to transition to the special effect state is granted, the special effect is executed after the rapid-hit instruction effect. On the other hand, if this right is not granted, the special effect is not executed after the rapid-hit instruction effect.

(Probability of each effect)
In the second game and the third game, the first effect (the "Aim for Gold 7" effect) may be executed, as in the first game. However, the probability of the first effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game is higher than the probability of the first effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game, and is also higher than the probability of the first effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game. The "probability of the first effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game" may be 100%. Furthermore, "high" includes cases where the probability is high because the comparison probability (the probability of the first effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game or the probability of the first effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game) is 0%.

If a series of consecutive effects (battle effects) is started and then interrupted (ended) before the consecutive effects are completed, the player may feel uncomfortable. The player is particularly likely to feel uncomfortable if the consecutive effects are interrupted in the first half of the series. For example, if a specific winning pattern is won in a first game, granting the right to transition to a special effect state, and a battle effect begins, and then after that game ends, the game transitions to the special effect state and the battle effect is interrupted (ended), the player may feel uncomfortable.

In this embodiment, the probability that the first effect (Aim for Gold 7 effect) will be executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game is higher than the probability that the first effect will be executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game, and is also higher than the probability that the first effect will be executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game. For example, when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game, the first effect (Aim for Gold 7 effect) will be executed instead of the continuous effect. Therefore, when transitioning to the special effect state after the first game ends, the continuous effect will not be interrupted. This reduces the possibility of the player feeling uncomfortable.

Also, in the third game, as in the second game, the second effect (an effect in which the display screen of the LCD 13 goes dark and an image (display) resembling the effect button 25 and the word "PUSH" are displayed) may be executed. The probability of the second effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game is higher than the probability of the second effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game. The "probability of the second effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game" may be 100%. Furthermore, "higher" includes cases where the probability is higher because the comparison probability (the probability of the second effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game) is 0%. Furthermore, the probability of the second effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game is higher than the probability of the second effect being executed when a specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game.

In this embodiment, a specific winning pattern may be won by internal lottery during the first through 27th plays in the special CZ presentation state (plays before the start of consecutive wins). For example, if a specific winning pattern is won during the fifth play, the presentation control means 100 executes the first presentation (aim for gold 7 presentation), and the bonus granting means 82 grants the right to transition to the special presentation state when the reels 20a through 20c stop in a specific stopping pattern (a stopping pattern of gold 7s). The presentation state control means 81 then starts the special presentation state from the next play. Note that during the first through 27th plays in the special CZ presentation state, the first presentation (aim for gold 7 presentation) may be executed even in games in which a winning pattern other than the specific winning pattern is obtained by internal lottery. In other words, even if the player performs a stopping operation in a specific operation pattern during a play in which the first presentation is executed, the reels 20a through 20c may not stop in the specific stopping pattern (a stopping pattern of gold 7s).

In contrast, in the 28th game (first game) in the special CZ presentation state, the first presentation is executed only if a specific winning pattern is won, and is not executed if a winning pattern other than the specific winning pattern is won. Therefore, in the first game, if the player performs a stop operation in a specific operation pattern in accordance with the first presentation, reels 20a to 20c will always stop in a specific stop pattern (a stop pattern of seven gold symbols).

As such, when the first effect (Aim for Gold 7 effect) is executed, reels 20a-20c may or may not stop in a specific stopping pattern (a stopping pattern of a line of gold 7s). The first effect is an effect that displays a message urging the player to perform a stopping operation in a specific hitting order (for example, by pressing right) and a message urging the player to perform a stopping operation at a specific timing so that a specific symbol (the gold 7 symbol, "Gold 7") appears in a specific display position. When the first effect is executed, there is a possibility that reels 20a-20c will stop in a specific stopping pattern (a stopping pattern of a line of gold 7s). Therefore, the first effect can be said to be an effect that suggests that a specific symbol (the gold 7 symbol, "Gold 7") will appear in a specific display position (an effect that indicates that it may appear in a specific display position).

The gaming machine of this embodiment is
a plurality of reels (e.g., reels 20a to 20c) on which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged;
a plurality of stop buttons (e.g., stop buttons 26a to 26c) capable of performing a stop operation to stop the rotation of the plurality of reels;
An internal lottery means (for example, the internal lottery means 42) for performing an internal lottery to determine whether a winning combination is achieved;
reel control means (for example, reel control means 43) for controlling the stopping of the plurality of reels in a manner according to the result of the internal lottery based on the stopping operation;
A performance control means (for example, the performance control means 100) for controlling the performance,
The winning patterns obtained in the internal lottery include specific winning patterns (for example, the winning area "1 Plum 2");
The specific winning mode is a winning mode in which, when the stop button is operated to stop in a specific operation mode, a specific symbol is displayed at a predetermined display position,
the effect control means is capable of executing, at a predetermined opportunity, consecutive effects across a first game, a second game following the first game, and a third game following the second game;
The effect control means is capable of executing a first effect that suggests that the specific symbol is displayed at a predetermined display position, and a second effect that is different from the first effect,
the probability that the first effect will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game is higher than the probability that the first effect will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game, and is also higher than the probability that the first effect will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game;
The probability that the second performance will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game is higher than the probability that the second performance will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game.

For example, if a continuous performance is interrupted because a specific winning pattern is obtained during the execution of the continuous performance, the player may feel uncomfortable. The player is particularly likely to feel uncomfortable if the continuous performance is interrupted in the first half of the continuous performance. In this embodiment, the probability that the first performance will be executed if the specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game is higher than the probability that the first performance will be executed if the specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game, and is also higher than the probability that the first performance will be executed if the specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game. For example, the first game is a game in which continuous performances can be executed, but the probability that the first performance will be executed if a specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game is higher. This prevents the continuous performance from being interrupted, reducing the likelihood of the player feeling uncomfortable.

Fifth Embodiment
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The gaming machine of this embodiment has basically the same configuration as the gaming machine of the third embodiment, and therefore the description of the similar configuration will be omitted or simplified.

As shown in Figure 26, there are multiple types of winning patterns (winning areas) that can be obtained through the internal lottery. In this embodiment, the winning areas "Batting Order Plum A1" to "Batting Order Plum B4" are collectively referred to as the winning area "Batting Order Plum" (first winning pattern). The winning areas "Common Plum 1" and "Common Plum 2" are collectively referred to as the winning area "Common Plum" (second winning pattern). The winning areas "1 Piece 1" and "1 Piece 2" are collectively referred to as the winning area "1 Piece" (third winning pattern). The winning areas "1 Piece Plum 1" and "1 Piece Plum 2" are collectively referred to as the winning area "1 Piece Plum" (fourth winning pattern).

In this embodiment, in the internal lottery, the probability of winning the second winning pattern is lower than the probability of winning the first winning pattern, lower than the probability of winning the third winning pattern, and lower than the probability of winning the fourth winning pattern.
In addition, when the probability of winning the second winning mode is lower than the probability of winning the first winning mode, it is sufficient that the probability of winning the winning area "Common Plum 1" or "Common Plum 2" is lower than the probability of winning at least one of the winning areas "Batting Order Plum A1" to "Batting Order Plum B4". In addition, when the probability of winning the second winning mode is lower than the probability of winning the third winning mode, it is sufficient that the probability of winning the winning area "Common Plum 1" or "Common Plum 2" is lower than the probability of winning at least one of the winning areas "1 Piece 1" and "1 Piece 2". In addition, when the probability of winning the second winning mode is lower than the probability of winning the fourth winning mode, it is sufficient that the probability of winning the winning area "Common Plum 1" or "Common Plum 2" is lower than the probability of winning at least one of the winning areas "1 Piece Plum 1" and "1 Piece Plum 2".

As shown in Figure 26, the winning area "Batting Order Plum" (first winning mode) and the winning area "Common Plum" are winning modes in which a bonus (big bonus) is not won twice in the general state (first gaming state). In contrast, the winning area "1 coin" and the winning area "1 coin plum" are winning modes in which a bonus (big bonus) is not won twice in the general state (first gaming state).

(Winning area "Batting Order Plum")
As shown in FIG. 27 , in the winning area "Plum Batting Order," any of batting orders 3 through 6 is set as the correct batting order, while batting orders 1 and 2 are set as the incorrect batting orders. In other words, when the winning area "Plum Batting Order" is viewed as a whole, there is a bias in the correct batting order settings. As shown in FIG. 27 , in a game in which the winning area "Plum Batting Order" is won, if the stop buttons 26a through 26c are stopped in the correct batting order (correct operation mode), a first minor role (8-coin role) with a predetermined payout can be won, and if the stop buttons 26a through 26c are stopped in the incorrect batting order (incorrect operation mode), a second minor role (1-coin role) with a payout lower than the predetermined payout can be won. The first minor role can be said to be a role that, when won, can earn more game value than the medals (game value) bet for one game. In addition, the second minor winning combination can be said to be a combination that, when won, can acquire a number of game values equal to or less than (less than) the game value bet for one game.

When a symbol combination indicating the winning form of the first minor prize (8-piece prize) is displayed on an active line, the reels 20a-20c will stop in a manner in which three plum symbols "PL" are displayed side by side (in a row) on a predetermined line (for example, the middle line) (a plum-aligned stop pattern).

When a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the second minor win is displayed on an active line, the reels 20a-20c will stop in a manner such that the specified symbols are not displayed in a line (in a straight line) on the specified line. In other words, when a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the second minor win is displayed on an active line, the reels 20a-20c will stop in a losing mode.

(Winning area "Common Plum")
In a game in which the winning area "Common Plum" is won, regardless of the order (operation mode) in which the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated to stop, a third minor win (8-coin win) with a higher payout than the second minor win can be won. In a game in which the winning area "Common Plum" is won, if the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated to stop in an operation mode (left 1st operation mode) that stops a specific reel (left reel 20a) first, the third minor win can be won. In this embodiment, the payouts for the first minor win and the third minor win are the same. It can be said that the third minor win, when won, allows for the acquisition of more game value than the medals (game value) bet for one game.

Figure 40(a) shows the case where a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the third minor win is displayed on an active line. When a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the third minor win is displayed on an active line, the reels 20a to 20c will stop in a pattern where three plum symbols "PL" are displayed side by side (in a straight line) on a predetermined line (a line sloping downward to the right) (a pattern where plum symbols are displayed side by side sloping downward to the right).

(Winning area: 1 piece)
In a game in which the "1 coin" winning area is won, if the stop buttons 26a-26c are operated in a manner that stops a specific reel (left reel 20a) first (left 1st operation manner), a fourth minor winning combination (1 coin combination) with a lower payout than the third minor winning combination can be won. The fourth minor winning combination can be said to be a combination that, when won, can earn a number of game values equal to or less than the game value bet for one game.

When a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the fourth minor win is displayed on an active line, the reels 20a-20c will stop in a manner such that the specified symbols are not displayed in a line (in a straight line) on the specified line. In other words, when a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the fourth minor win is displayed on an active line, the reels 20a-20c will stop in a losing mode.

(Winning area: "1 Plum")
In a game in which the winning area "1 Plum" is won, if the stop buttons 26a-26c are operated in a manner that stops a specific reel (left reel 20a) first (left 1st operation manner), a fifth minor winning combination (1 coin combination) with a lower payout than the third minor winning combination can be won. The fifth minor winning combination can be said to be a combination that, if won, can earn a number of game values equal to or less than the game value bet for one game.

Figure 40 (b) shows the case where a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the fifth minor win is displayed on an active line. When a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the fifth minor win is displayed on an active line, the reels 20a to 20c will stop in a manner where three plum symbols "PL" are displayed in a line (side by side) on a predetermined line (upper line) (a stop manner where the upper line is aligned).

If the reels are stopped in the left 1st operation mode during a game in which the "1 coin" winning area is won, the reels 20a-20c will stop in a losing pattern, and the fourth minor role (1 coin role) will be awarded. On the other hand, if the reels are stopped in the left 1st operation mode during a game in which the "1 plum" winning area is won, the reels 20a-20c will stop in a stopping mode that lines up the plum symbol "PL", and the fifth minor role (1 coin role) will be awarded. Both winning roles are 1 coin roles, but in one case the reels stop in a losing pattern, and in the other case the reels stop in a plum-aligned pattern.

As mentioned above, the winning area "Batting Order Plum" is a winning area where the correct batting order is set to a bias (Batting Order 1 and Batting Order 2 are incorrect batting orders). In this embodiment of the gaming machine, the expected payout rate when playing by pressing left is set lower than the expected payout rate when playing by pressing irregular buttons, and left button play is generally recommended. As a result, the ratio (base) of the total number of game values paid out to the total number of game values inserted in a given number of games (the number of games that can be played when 50 game values are inserted) is set relatively low (low base).

If play continues with left push (left 1st operation mode) during the recommended left push period (at least in the normal presentation state), and reels 20a-20c frequently stop in a losing pattern and relatively infrequently stop in a pattern that allows the player to recognize that a predetermined pattern has been lined up, the player will find it difficult to get a sense (a feeling of hitting) that a small winning combination has been achieved (a small winning combination has been lined up). This could reduce the player's interest in the game.

In this embodiment, a winning area where a 1-coin combination is awarded when the reels are stopped by pressing left is provided, separate from the winning area "1 Coin" where the reels 20a-20c stop in a losing pattern. This winning area is also provided where the reels 20a-20c stop in a plum combination. The winning area "1 Coin Plum" is a winning area where a small combination (1-coin combination) with a relatively low payout is awarded when the reels are stopped by pressing left, and the reels 20a-20c stop in a pattern that allows the player to recognize that a predetermined pattern has been aligned.

As a result, when playing by pressing left, it is possible to increase the frequency with which reels 20a-20c stop in a manner that allows players to recognize that a predetermined pattern has been lined up. This increases the opportunities for players to get a sense of success (a feeling of hitting) that a small winning combination has been achieved (a small winning combination has been lined up), preventing a decline in interest in the game.

As described above, when a game in which the "Common Plum" winning area is won is stopped using the left-first operation mode, reels 20a-20c stop in a plum alignment downwards to the right. Furthermore, when a game in which the "Single Plum" winning area is won is stopped using the left-first operation mode, reels 20a-20c stop in a plum alignment upwards to the right. In other words, the stop mode of reels 20a-20c when a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the third minor win is displayed on an active line in a game in which the "Common Plum" winning area is won (plum alignment downwards to the right), and the stop mode of reels 20a-20c when a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the fifth minor win is displayed on an active line in a game in which the "Single Plum" winning area is won (plum alignment upwards), are "stop modes that allow the player to recognize that the specified symbols have been aligned," and can be said to be similar stop modes. Note that "a stop pattern that allows the player to recognize that the specified symbols have lined up" includes, for example, a stop pattern in which the specified symbols stop in a small V shape or a small mountain shape. In short, any stop pattern that allows the player to recognize that the specified symbols have lined up will suffice.

Note that in a game in which the "Plum Batting Order" winning area is won, if the reels are stopped using an incorrect operation mode (including the first operation mode from the left), the reels 20a to 20c will stop in a losing pattern. Also, in a game in which the "1 Coin" winning area is won, if the reels are stopped using the first operation mode from the left, the reels 20a to 20c will stop in a losing pattern. In other words, the stopping pattern (losing pattern) of reels 20a to 20c when a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the second minor win is displayed on the active line in a game in which the "Plum Batting Order" winning area is won, and the stopping pattern (losing pattern) of reels 20a to 20c when a symbol combination indicating a winning mode for the fourth minor win is displayed on the active line in a game in which the "1 Coin" winning area is won, will be a stopping pattern in which the specified symbols are not displayed (do not stop) in a straight line (a stopping pattern in which it is impossible to recognize that the specified symbols have been lined up).

In this embodiment, in the normal presentation state, the bonus awarding means 82 conducts a point awarding lottery at a predetermined trigger (triggered by a win in a predetermined winning area), and if the point awarding lottery is won, a predetermined number of points are awarded. When the points earned in the normal presentation state reach a predetermined value (when the stored value of the point counter in the storage means 60 reaches a predetermined value), the presentation state control means 81 determines that the conditions for transitioning to a favorable presentation state (CZ presentation state) have been met, and transitions the presentation state to that presentation state.

In addition, this embodiment provides a special point presentation state in which the expected probability of points being awarded is set higher than in the normal presentation state. In the special point presentation state, a predetermined number of games (e.g., six games) are played, and a predetermined number of points (at least 10 or more) are awarded for each game. In the normal presentation state, the bonus awarding means 82 conducts a lottery at a predetermined opportunity (triggered by a win in a predetermined winning area) to determine whether or not to transition to the special point presentation state. If the lottery is won, the presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to the special point presentation state.

As mentioned above, when a stop operation is performed using the left 1st operation mode in a game in which the "1 Plum" winning area is won, reels 20a-20c will stop in a plum-aligned stopping mode, just as when a stop operation is performed using the left 1st operation mode in a game in which the "Common Plum" winning area is won (see Figure 40).

The bonus granting means 82 (instruction function control means 51) conducts a lottery related to the instruction function when the "Common Plum" winning area is won. Here, the lottery related to the instruction function (lottery related to the batting order navigation effect) is a lottery (AT lottery) that determines whether to transition to an AT effect state in which the batting order navigation effect is executed. The lottery related to the instruction function may also be a lottery (CZ lottery) that determines whether to transition to a CZ effect state in which the expected probability of transitioning to the AT effect state is higher than in the normal effect state. It may also be a lottery (additional lottery) that determines whether to increase the duration of the AT effect state. It may also be a lottery that determines whether to transition to the point awarding lottery or the special point effect state described above. The point awarding lottery and the lottery that determines whether to transition to the special point effect state are lotteries related to points, the more points accumulated, the closer (shorter) the transition to the CZ effect state becomes, and therefore can be said to be lotteries related to the instruction function.

In this embodiment, if the winning area "1 Plum" (fourth winning mode) is won (in a game in which the winning area "1 Plum" is won), a lottery related to the same instruction function is executed as if the winning area "Common Plum" (second winning mode) is won (in a game in which the winning area "Common Plum" is won). In other words, the winning area "1 Plum" and the winning area "Common Plum" have the same lottery related to the instruction function that is executed in response to a win (the same lottery related to the instruction function is executed in response to a win). Like the winning area "Common Plum," the winning area "1 Plum" is a winning area in which reels 20a-20c stop in a plum-aligned state when stopped using the left 1st operation mode, and the same lottery is executed as when the winning area "Common Plum" is won. In other words, when the "1 Plum" winning area is stopped in the left 1st operation mode, a small prize (1-piece prize) with a smaller payout will be awarded than when the "Common Plum" winning area is won in the left 1st operation mode, but the same lottery will be held as when the "Common Plum" winning area is won.

When the reels 20a-20c stop in a plum alignment pattern when the left 1st operation is performed, and there is no "1 Plum" winning area that allows the same draw as when the "Common Plum" winning area is won, the frequency of draws related to the instruction function in the normal presentation state decreases, increasing the likelihood that the game will become monotonous. There is also a high probability that it will take a relatively long time to transition to a favorable presentation state. In this embodiment, the "1 Plum" winning area is provided, and in the normal presentation state, when the "1 Plum" winning area is won, a draw related to the instruction function identical to that when the "Common Plum" winning area is won is executed. This enhances the game's playability and prevents a decline in interest in the game.

In this embodiment, if the "1 coin" winning area, in which reels 20a-20c do not stop in a plum alignment when the left 1st operation is performed to stop the reels, is won, the expectation level for the lottery related to the instruction function is lower than if the "1 plum" winning area was won. A lower expectation level for the lottery related to the instruction function may mean that the probability of winning the lottery is lower, or that the probability of winning the lottery is 0%, or that the lottery is not executed. In this embodiment, if the "1 coin" winning area is won, the player will not be able to participate in the same lottery (lottery related to the instruction function) as if the "1 plum" winning area ("common plum" winning area) was won.

In the AT performance state, a batting order navigation effect can be executed in a game in which the "Batting Order Plum" winning area is won, and if the reels 20a to 20c are stopped in the correct operation mode (correct batting order) in that game, the reels 20a to 20c will stop in a plum-aligned stopping mode. In this embodiment, in the AT performance state, a lottery related to the same instruction function is executed in the case of winning the "Common Plum" winning area (a game in which the "Common Plum" winning area is won), winning the "1 Plum" winning area (a game in which the "1 Plum" winning area is won), and winning the "Batting Order Plum" winning area (a game in which the "Batting Order Plum" winning area is won). In other words, in the AT performance state, if the winning area "Common Plum" (second winning mode), the winning area "Single Plum" (fourth winning mode), or the winning area "Batting Order Bell" (first winning mode) is won, the same lottery for the instruction function that is executed in response to the winning is held (if a winning mode is held, the same lottery for the instruction function is held).

In this embodiment, "the same lottery related to the instruction function can be entered (executed) if a player wins" does not necessarily mean that the same lottery can be entered in all presentation states (in other words, regardless of the situation), and there may be cases where the same lottery cannot be entered in at least some presentation states. Furthermore, "the same lottery related to the instruction function can be entered in two predetermined winning areas if a player wins" may mean that for one winning area, in addition to the same lottery, another lottery can also be entered.

The gaming machine of this embodiment is
a plurality of reels (e.g., reels 20a to 20c) on which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged;
a plurality of stop buttons (e.g., stop buttons 26a to 26c) capable of performing a stop operation to stop the rotation of the plurality of reels;
An internal lottery means (for example, the internal lottery means 42) for performing an internal lottery to determine whether a winning combination is achieved;
reel control means (for example, reel control means 43) for controlling the stopping of the plurality of reels in a manner according to the result of the internal lottery based on the stopping operation;
a game state control means (for example, a game state control means 49) for transitioning the game state between a plurality of game states including a first game state (for example, a general game state) and a second game state (for example, an RBB internal game state) to which the game state transitions based on the winning of a bonus in the first game state;
The reel control means is capable of stopping the plurality of reels and displaying a symbol combination indicating a predetermined winning form for each winning combination on an active line;
The winning patterns obtained in the internal lottery include the first winning pattern (winning area "batting order plum")
The second winning mode (winning area "common plum"), the third winning mode (winning area "1 piece"), and the fourth winning mode (winning area "1 piece plum") are included,
In the internal lottery, the probability of winning the second winning mode is lower than the probability of winning the first winning mode, lower than the probability of winning the third winning mode, and lower than the probability of winning the fourth winning mode,
The first winning mode is:
A winning mode in which the bonus is not won twice in the first gaming state,
In a game in which the first winning mode is obtained, if the plurality of stop buttons are operated to stop in a correct operation mode, a first minor role (8-piece role) with a predetermined payout can be won, and if the plurality of stop buttons are operated to stop in an incorrect operation mode different from the correct operation mode, a second minor role (1-piece role) with a payout lower than the predetermined payout can be won.
The second winning mode is:
A winning mode in which the bonus is not won twice in the first gaming state,
In a game in which the second winning mode is obtained, if the plurality of stop buttons are operated to stop a specific reel first, a third minor role (8-piece role) with a higher payout than the second minor role can be won.
The third winning mode is:
A winning mode in which the bonus is won multiple times in the first gaming state,
In a game in which the third winning mode is obtained, if the plurality of stop buttons are operated to stop the specific reel first, a fourth minor role (1-piece role) with a payout lower than that of the third minor role can be won.
The fourth winning mode is:
A winning mode in which the bonus is won multiple times in the first gaming state,
In a game in which the fourth winning mode is obtained, if the plurality of stop buttons are operated to stop the specific reel first, a fifth minor role (one-piece role) with a payout lower than that of the third minor role can be won.
The stopping modes of the plurality of reels when the symbol combination showing the winning form of the third minor winning combination is displayed on the activated line, and the stopping modes of the plurality of reels when the symbol combination showing the winning form of the fifth minor winning combination is displayed on the activated line are stopping modes that allow recognition that predetermined symbols have lined up and stopped,
The stopping patterns of the plurality of reels when a symbol combination indicating the winning form of the second minor prize is displayed on the valid line, and the stopping patterns of the plurality of reels when a symbol combination indicating the winning form of the fourth minor prize is displayed on the valid line are stopping patterns in which the predetermined symbols do not stop aligned in a straight line.

When the stop operation is performed in the operation mode that stops the specific reel first and the game is continued, if the multiple reels frequently stop in a manner that does not result in a predetermined symbol alignment, the player will be less likely to feel that they have won a predetermined winning combination. In other words, there is a risk of a decline in interest in the game. In this embodiment, when the stop operation is performed in the operation mode that stops the specific reel first, a low-payout winning combination is achieved, but a fourth winning combination is provided in which the multiple reels stop in a manner that allows the player to recognize that the predetermined symbol alignment has occurred. Therefore, when the stop operation is performed in the operation mode that stops the specific reel first and the game is continued, the frequency with which the multiple reels stop in a manner that allows the player to recognize that the predetermined symbol alignment has occurred can be increased. This increases the player's opportunities to feel that they have won a predetermined winning combination, thereby preventing a decline in interest in the game.
In addition, if the stop operation is performed in an operation mode that stops the specific reel first in a game in which the fourth winning mode is obtained, a winning combination with a lower payout will be won than if the stop operation is performed in an operation mode that stops the specific reel first in a game in which the second winning mode is obtained, but the stop mode of the multiple reels will be a stop mode that allows the player to recognize that the specified patterns have lined up and stopped, just like when the stop operation is performed in a game in which the second winning mode is obtained.

In addition, the gaming machine of this embodiment has
An instruction function control means for performing processing related to the instruction function is provided,
In the first winning mode, the second winning mode, and the fourth winning mode, the same lottery relating to the instruction function is executed when the first winning mode, the second winning mode, and the fourth winning mode are won.

(Sixth embodiment)
Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The gaming machine of this embodiment has basically the same configuration as the gaming machine of the third embodiment, and therefore the description of the similar configuration will be omitted or simplified.

In this embodiment, the bonus awarding means 82 conducts a point awarding lottery at a predetermined trigger (triggered by a win in a predetermined winning area). The point awarding lottery determines which points will be awarded from multiple point candidate types, or whether no points will be awarded (whether 0 points will be awarded). The bonus awarding means 82 awards points according to the results of the point awarding lottery, and a value equivalent to the points is added to the stored value of a point counter (not shown) in the storage means 60. When the points earned in the normal presentation state reach a predetermined value (when the stored value of the point counter reaches a predetermined value), the presentation state control means 81 determines that the transition condition to the CZ presentation state is met, and transitions the presentation state to the CZ presentation state. Note that the presentation state control means 81 may transition to the AT presentation state based on the stored value of the point counter reaching a predetermined value.

(Special point effect)
As shown in Figure 41, this embodiment provides a special point presentation state in which the expected degree of points awarded is set higher than in the normal presentation state. In the special point presentation state, a predetermined number of games (e.g., six games) are played, and a predetermined number of points (at least 10 or more) are awarded for each game, for example. In the special point presentation state, the expected degree of points awarded is set higher than in the normal presentation state, making it an advantageous presentation state for the player.

The bonus granting means 82, upon a predetermined trigger (triggered by a win in a predetermined winning area), conducts a lottery (a special point lottery) to determine whether or not to transition to a special point presentation state. If the lottery is won, the bonus granting means 82 determines to transition to a special point presentation state, and the presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to the special point presentation state.

(High probability performance state)
As shown in FIG. 41 , in this embodiment, a high-probability presentation state (second presentation state) is provided in which the expected probability of determining a transition to the point special presentation state is set higher than that of the normal presentation state (first presentation state). In the high-probability presentation state, the probability of winning the point special lottery may be set higher than that of the normal presentation state, the frequency of the point special lottery may be set higher than that of the normal presentation state, or both may be set. In the high-probability presentation state, the expected probability of determining a transition to the point special presentation state is set higher than that of the normal presentation state, making it a presentation state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal presentation state. It can be said that transitioning to the high-probability presentation state (deciding to transition) means that a bonus (specific bonus, predetermined bonus) related to the transition to the high-probability presentation state is granted. In this embodiment, a transition to the high-probability presentation state is made based on the granting of a bonus related to the transition to the high-probability presentation state.

The bonus granting means 82 conducts a lottery (hereinafter referred to as a specific lottery) at a predetermined opportunity (triggered by a win in a predetermined winning area) to determine whether or not to transition to a high-probability presentation state. If the specific lottery is won, the bonus granting means 82 determines to transition to a high-probability presentation state, and the presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state to the high-probability presentation state.

In this embodiment, in a normal presentation state, a specific lottery may be won, resulting in a transition to a high probability presentation state. Also, in a non-advantageous zone (non-advantageous zone presentation state), a specific lottery may be won, resulting in a transition to a high probability presentation state. Also, a specific lottery may be executed based on a transition from a non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone, resulting in a win in the specific lottery, resulting in a transition to a high probability presentation state.
In addition, the specific lottery in the non-advantageous zone presentation state may be a lottery for transitioning to an advantageous zone. That is, the advantageous zone presentation lottery may determine whether to transition to a normal presentation state, to a high probability presentation state, or to remain in the non-advantageous zone presentation state without transitioning.
In this embodiment, when transitioning from a non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone (at the time of transition to the advantageous zone, at the start of the advantageous zone, based on the transition from the non-advantageous zone to the advantageous zone), the probability of transitioning to a high probability presentation state is higher than the probability of transitioning to a high probability presentation state in the normal presentation state. In other words, when transitioning from a non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone (based on the transition from the non-advantageous zone to the advantageous zone), the probability of granting a specific benefit is higher than the probability of granting a specific benefit in the normal presentation state.
For example, the specific lottery executed based on the transition from a non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone may be configured as follows: A normal table and a high-probability table that has a higher probability of determining a transition to a high-probability presentation state than the normal table are prepared as tables related to the specific lottery, and the high-probability table may be selected more frequently in the specific lottery executed based on the transition from a non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone (at the start of the advantageous zone). The specific lottery may be executed at the start of the advantageous zone, and if the specific lottery determines a transition to a high-probability presentation state (a bonus related to the transition to a high-probability presentation state is granted), the transition to the high-probability presentation state may be based on that.

The effect control means 100 is capable of executing suggestive effects that indicate a transition to a high probability effect state (the initiation of a high probability effect state) (the awarding of a specific benefit) based on a transition to a high probability effect state (the initiation of a high probability effect state) (based on the awarding of a specific benefit). A suggestive effect can also be considered an effect that indicates that the player is currently in a high probability effect state. In this embodiment, a suggestive effect is executed (started) in conjunction with a transition to a high probability effect state.

An example of a suggestive effect is a special stage effect. A special stage effect is, for example, an effect in which the background of the LCD display 13 displays a special location (an effect in which a special location is set as the background). In this embodiment, the special stage effect is an effect that is not executed in the normal effect state. When a special stage effect is being executed, the player can understand that there is a high possibility that they are in a high probability effect state, and can feel a sense of anticipation. Note that the special stage effect may be executed in an effect state other than the high probability effect state (for example, the CZ effect state). In other words, when a special stage effect is being executed, the effect state may be other than the high probability effect state.

As mentioned above, when the setting value is changed, the initialization means 48 (see Figure 25) performs an initialization process (predetermined initialization process) that initializes at least a portion of the information stored in the RAM of the storage means 60. When the setting value is changed, the initialization means 48 performs a process that returns the game state, game zone, and presentation state to their initial states. In other words, when the setting value is changed, the game state becomes a normal state, the game zone becomes a non-advantageous zone, and the presentation state becomes a non-advantageous zone presentation state.

When the setting value is changed (when initialization processing is executed), the gaming zone becomes a non-advantageous zone. Furthermore, as described above, the gaming machine of this embodiment is set to have a high probability of transitioning to a high-probability presentation state based on the transition from a non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone. For this reason, if no countermeasures are taken, the first player to play on the gaming machine at the gaming center that day (for example, immediately after opening) may understand, based on the execution of the suggestive presentation, that there is a high possibility that the setting value of the gaming machine has been changed. If such understanding is possible, for example, there is a risk that the player will use this as a basis for deciding whether or not to play on the gaming machine.

In this embodiment of the gaming machine, if a transition to a high-probability presentation state occurs based on the first transition to an advantageous zone after a setting change (after initialization processing has been executed), the execution of suggestive presentations is restricted (blocked). In other words, the presentation control means 100 controls the execution of suggestive presentations when a transition to a high-probability presentation state occurs based on the first transition to an advantageous zone after a setting change. The presentation control means 100 also executes predetermined presentations that are different from suggestive presentations. An example of a predetermined presentation is a presentation that is executed when a transition to a normal presentation state occurs (a normal presentation corresponding to the normal presentation state: a normal stage presentation). The normal stage presentation is a presentation that does not suggest that the player is currently in a high-probability presentation state.

In this embodiment, the suggestive effect is not limited to a special stage effect related to the background of the LCD display 13, but may also be an effect (high probability suggestive effect) that suggests a transition to a high probability effect state (staying in a high probability effect state) that can be executed at a specified trigger (triggered by a win in a specified winning area). Examples of high probability suggestive effects include those in which a specified object such as a character is displayed (running through), or those in which a specified line of dialogue is displayed. Note that high probability suggestive effects are not limited to high probability effect states, and may also be executed in effect states other than the high probability effect state (for example, the normal effect state).

Even if a setting change (initialization process) is made to a specific gaming machine, play is played on that gaming machine for the first time that day at an amusement parlor (for example, immediately after opening), and the machine transitions to a high-probability display state after play begins, the execution of suggestive effects (special stage effects and high-probability suggestive effects) is restricted. As a result, players cannot determine that the setting values of the gaming machine are likely to have been changed based on the execution of suggestive effects. In other words, it is possible to prevent players from realizing that the setting values of the gaming machine have been changed through the execution of suggestive effects. Note that while the execution of suggestive effects is restricted, the gameplay feature of a high probability of transitioning to a display state (high-probability display state) that is advantageous to the player when the setting values are changed can still be achieved (ensured).

In this embodiment of the gaming machine, the currently running stage presentation will not be switched (stages will not be changed) at a predetermined trigger (based on the results of a lottery) for at least a predetermined number of plays (20 plays) after the first transition to the advantageous zone after a setting change (after the advantageous zone starts). Therefore, if the high probability presentation state is entered upon the first transition to the advantageous zone after a setting change, the execution of suggestive presentations is restricted, and a normal stage presentation is executed, then the normal stage presentation will be executed instead of the special stage presentation for a predetermined number of plays (20 plays) after the advantageous zone starts.

In this embodiment, when the conditions for ending the first advantageous zone after the setting change are met, the game transitions to a non-advantageous zone, and then transitions again to an advantageous zone (second advantageous zone). In this case, if the game transitions to a high-probability presentation state based on the second transition to an advantageous zone, the execution of suggestive presentations is not restricted, i.e., suggestive presentations (special stage presentations) are executed. The same applies when the game transitions to a high-probability presentation state based on the third or subsequent transition to an advantageous zone.

When a transition to a high-probability presentation state occurs based on the first transition to a favorable zone after a setting change, the execution of suggestive presentations is restricted, and normal stage presentations are executed for a predetermined number of plays (20 plays) (no suggestive presentations (special stage presentations) are executed during the predetermined number of plays (20 plays)). Although the execution of suggestive presentations is restricted, because the presentation state is a high-probability presentation state, there is a higher expectation of a transition to a point special presentation state than in a normal presentation state. Then, if a player wins a point special lottery executed at a predetermined opportunity during the predetermined number of plays (20 plays), the presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state from the normal presentation state to the point special presentation state. In other words, the transition from the normal presentation state to the point special presentation state is made without passing through the high-probability presentation state. In this embodiment, a predetermined number of plays (6 plays) are played in the point special presentation state, but when a transition (return) to a high-probability presentation state occurs upon the end of the point special presentation state, the restriction on suggestive presentations is lifted, and suggestive presentations are executed (started). In other words, if the special point lottery is won (a transition to the special point effect state is determined) during a predetermined number of plays (20 times), the restriction (block) on the suggestive effect will be lifted accordingly.

When transitioning to the high probability presentation state, the presentation state control means 81 sets a value (e.g., 50) equivalent to the number of plays in the high probability presentation state as the stored value of a high probability end determination counter (not shown) in the storage means 60. Each time a play is played in the high probability presentation state (e.g., triggered by a play start operation on the start lever 24), the presentation state control means 81 subtracts "1", equivalent to one play, from the stored value of the high probability end determination counter, and when the stored value of the counter reaches the threshold value "0", it determines that the condition for ending the high probability presentation state has been met and ends the high probability presentation state.

In this embodiment, once a predetermined number of plays (20 plays) have been played after the first transition to the favorable zone following a setting change, it becomes possible to switch the currently running stage effect (stage transition becomes possible). In this embodiment, if a transition to the high probability effect state occurs based on the first transition to the favorable zone following a setting change, a lottery is held at a predetermined trigger to determine which effect will be executed (whether or not to execute a suggestive effect) after a predetermined number of plays (20 plays) have been played in the high probability effect state. Note that this lottery may reference the stored value of a high probability end determination counter. For example, if the stored value is relatively large (the number of plays remaining in the high probability effect state is relatively large), the probability of determining that a suggestive effect will be executed may be controlled to be high; and if the stored value is relatively small (the number of plays remaining in the high probability effect state is relatively small), the probability of determining that a suggestive effect will be executed may be controlled to be low.

In this embodiment, when a transition to a high probability presentation state occurs based on the first transition to a favorable zone after a setting change, the execution of suggestive presentations is restricted, and when a transition to a high probability presentation state occurs based on the second or subsequent transition to a favorable zone, the execution of suggestive presentations is not restricted. However, this is not limited to this, and the execution of suggestive presentations may be restricted when a transition to a high probability presentation state occurs based on the second or subsequent transition to a favorable zone. In other words, it is sufficient that the execution of suggestive presentations is restricted at least when a transition to a high probability presentation state occurs based on the first transition to a favorable zone after a setting change.

In addition, in this embodiment, the execution of suggestive effects is restricted when a transition to a high-probability presentation state occurs based on at least the first transition to a favorable zone after a setting change; however, this may also be after a power outage is restored (after a power outage) rather than after a setting change. In other words, the execution of suggestive effects may be restricted when a transition to a high-probability presentation state occurs based on at least the first transition to a favorable zone after a power outage is restored. Power outage restoration (power shutdown and re-on) includes power outage restoration without a change to the setting value, and power outage restoration with a change to the setting value. As mentioned above, changing the setting value is a process that involves a power outage.

In the case of a power outage recovery without a setting change, there is no need to prevent it from being perceived as a high possibility that a setting change has occurred, and there is no need to restrict the execution of suggestive effects. However, in the case of a power outage recovery, regardless of whether a setting change is involved, the same processing is executed (at least restricting the execution of suggestive effects if the game transitions to a high-probability presentation state based on the first transition to an advantageous zone after a power outage recovery), thereby eliminating the need to determine whether a power outage recovery involves a setting change, and simplifying the processing.

In addition, regardless of whether or not there is a power outage, the execution of suggestive effects may be restricted whenever a transition to a high-probability effect state occurs based on a transition to a favorable zone. In this case, suggestive effects may be executed, for example, when a transition to a high-probability effect state occurs via a normal effect state.

Furthermore, regardless of which presentation state is transitioned to based on a transition to an advantageous zone (regardless of whether a transition to a high-probability presentation state (whether a specific bonus has been awarded)), the execution of suggestive presentations may be restricted. In this case, for example, even if a transition to a normal presentation state is made based on a transition to an advantageous zone, the execution of suggestive presentations (high-probability suggestive presentations) may be restricted.

In this embodiment, the high-probability presentation state (second presentation state) is a presentation state in which the expectation level for determining a transition to a point special presentation state is set higher than in the normal presentation state, making it more advantageous to the player than the normal presentation state (first presentation state), and the probability of transitioning to the high-probability presentation state (second presentation state) based on a transition from a non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone is set higher. However, this is not limited to this, and the high-probability presentation state (second presentation state) may also be a CZ high-probability presentation state. In the CZ high-probability presentation state, the expectation level for determining a transition to the CZ presentation state is set higher than in the normal presentation state, making it a presentation state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal presentation state (first presentation state). Furthermore, the high-probability presentation state (second presentation state) may also be an AT high-probability presentation state. In the AT high-probability presentation state, the expectation level for determining a transition to the AT presentation state is set higher than in the normal presentation state, making it a presentation state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal presentation state (first presentation state).

The gaming machine of this embodiment is
an initialization unit (e.g., initialization unit 48) capable of executing a predetermined initialization process;
A presentation state control means (e.g., presentation state control means 81) for transitioning the presentation state between a plurality of presentation states including a first presentation state (e.g., a normal presentation state) and a second presentation state (e.g., a high probability presentation state) that is more advantageous than the first presentation state;
A privilege granting means (e.g., a privilege granting means 82) capable of granting a privilege;
An instruction function control means (e.g., instruction function control means 51) that controls the execution of an instruction performance that prompts a stop operation in a predetermined operation mode;
A game zone control means (e.g., a game zone control means 80) that transitions the game zone between an advantageous zone in which the instruction performance can be executed and a non-advantageous zone in which the instruction performance is not executed;
A performance control means (for example, the performance control means 100) for controlling the execution of the performance,
The effect control means is capable of executing a suggestion effect that suggests that a specific benefit related to the transition to the second effect state has been granted, based on the granting of the specific benefit,
The gaming area control means, based on the execution of the initialization process, shifts the gaming area to the non-advantageous area,
the benefit awarding means has a higher probability of awarding the specific benefit based on a transition from the non-advantageous zone to the advantageous zone than a higher probability of awarding the specific benefit in the first performance state;
The presentation control means restricts the execution of the suggestive presentation at least when the specific benefit is granted based on the first transition to the advantageous zone after the initialization process is executed.

When the initialization process is executed, it is possible to realize gameplay in which there is a high probability that a specific bonus related to a transition to a second presentation state that is advantageous to the player will be awarded based on the transition from a non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone. Furthermore, when the initialization process is executed, even if the gaming machine is played on for the first time that day at the gaming center (for example, immediately after opening) and a specific bonus related to a transition to the second presentation state is awarded, the execution of suggestive presentations will be restricted. This prevents players from realizing that the initialization process has been executed through the execution of suggestive presentations.

As shown in Figure 26, the winning area "Replay 1" is a winning area where Replay 1, Replay 19, and Replay 21 overlap and are won. The winning area "Replay 2" is a winning area where Replay 1, Replay 5, and Replay 19 overlap and are won. The overlapping replays (combinations) in the winning areas "Replay 1" and "Replay 2" are different. Furthermore, the winning areas "Replay 1" and "Replay 2" contain a specific (same) replay (Replay 1) as a winning combination, and are winning areas where a specific replay (Replay 1) can be won.

In this embodiment, for a game that wins the winning area "Replay 1" and a game that wins the winning area "Replay 2," the symbol combination that indicates the winning form of a specific (same) replay (Replay 1) is displayed on the pay line, regardless of the batting order (the manner in which the stop button is operated).

The internal lottery table specifies a value number (number of entries) for each winning area. A "value number" is a number that indicates the winning range within the entire range of random numbers (e.g., "65536"). In other words, a value number indicates the number of random numbers associated with each winning area. In the normal medium state, the value number assigned to the winning area "RBB" is, for example, "4." In this case, the probability of winning the winning area "RBB" in the internal lottery is "4/65536." Also, in the normal medium state, the value number assigned to the winning area "Replay 1" is, for example, "4." In this case, the probability of winning the winning area "Replay 1" in the internal lottery is "4/65536." Also, in the normal medium state, the value number assigned to the winning area "Replay 2" is, for example, "7000." In this case, the probability of winning the winning area "Replay 2" in the internal lottery is "7000/65536." The value "4" is the smallest value that can be set in a specific winning area in the internal lottery table.

In the normal medium state, the number of values assigned to the winning area "Replay 1" is equal to or greater than the number of values assigned to the winning area "RBB". Also, in the normal medium state, the number of values assigned to the winning area "Replay 2" is greater than the number of values assigned to the winning area "Replay 1". In the normal medium state, the number of values increases in the order of the winning area "RBB", the winning area "Replay 1", and the winning area "Replay 2". Note that "increasing" may also mean that the number of values is the same.

As shown in Figure 26, the winning area "RBB" (a single RBB with area number 37) is winnable when the game state is the normal game state (first game state), but is not winnable when the game state is the RBB internal game state (second game state). In other words, no value number is assigned to the winning area "RBB" when the RBB internal game state is active. In this embodiment, the value number "4" assigned to the winning area "RBB" when the game state is normal game state is added to the value number of the winning area "Replay 1" when the RBB internal game state is active. In other words, the value number of the winning area "Replay 1" when the RBB internal game state is active is the sum of the value number of the winning area "Replay 1" when the game state is normal game state and the value number of the winning area "RBB" when the game state is normal game state. In the RBB internal game state, the value number of the winning area "Replay 1" is "8." Therefore, the value number of the winning area "Replay 1" differs between the normal game state and the RBB internal game state. In other words, the winning area "Replay 1" is a winning area where the value of the RBB internal medium state changes compared to the value of the general medium state.

In Figure 26, a "○" is marked in the column for the winning area "Replay 1" in the general state. This means that if the winning area "Replay 1" is won in the internal lottery in the general state (in a game in which the winning area "Replay 1" is won), it is possible to execute a lottery related to the instruction function, but it is not possible to execute a lottery to transition to an advantageous zone. Also, a "○" is marked in the column for the winning area "Replay 1" in the RBB internal state. This means that if the winning area "Replay 1" is won in the internal lottery in the RBB internal state (in a game in which the winning area "Replay 1" is won), it is possible to execute a lottery related to the instruction function, but it is not possible to execute a lottery to transition to an advantageous zone.

On the other hand, the winning area "Replay 2" has the same number of values (the same number of values is assigned) in both the normal state and the RBB internal state. In other words, the winning area "Replay 2" is a winning area whose number of values does not change between the normal state and the RBB internal state. In Figure 26, a "◎" is marked in the winning area "Replay 2" column in the normal state and the RBB internal state. This means that if the winning area "Replay 2" is won in the normal state and the RBB internal state (in a game in which the winning area "Replay 2" is won), it is possible to execute a lottery related to the instruction function and to execute a lottery to transition to a favorable zone.

In other words, for winning areas related to replays where the value changes between the normal state and the RBB internal state (winning area "Replay 1"), the execution of the lottery for moving to the advantageous zone when a win occurs is prohibited. On the other hand, for winning areas related to replays where the value does not change between the normal state and the RBB internal state (winning area "Replay 2"), the execution of the lottery for moving to the advantageous zone when a win occurs is not prohibited.

In Figure 26, a "◎" is marked in the column for the winning area "RBB" (single RBB with area number 37) in the normal state. This means that if the winning area "RBB" is won in the normal state (in a game in which the winning area "RBB" is won), it is possible to execute a lottery related to the instruction function, and it is also possible to execute a lottery for transitioning to an advantageous zone.

Here, let's assume that there are not two types of winning areas, "Replay 1" and "Replay 2," but only one winning area, "Replay X," and that the value number assigned to the winning area "Replay X" in the general medium state is, for example, "7004." In this case, when the value number "4" assigned to the winning area "RBB" in the general medium state is added to the value number of the winning area "Replay X" in the RBB internal medium state, the value number of the winning area "Replay X" in the RBB internal medium state becomes "7008." The winning area "Replay X" is a winning area with a different value number in the general medium state and the RBB internal medium state. For this reason, just like with the winning area "Replay 1" described above (in other words, just like when the lottery for transitioning to an advantageous zone is not executed for winning areas related to replays with different values in the general state and the internal RBB state), if the winning area "Replay X" is won in the internal lottery in the general state and the internal RBB state (in a game in which the winning area "Replay X" is won), it will be impossible to execute the lottery for transitioning to an advantageous zone. In other words, in a game in which the winning area "Replay X" is won in the general state and the internal RBB state, a transition from a non-advantageous zone to an advantageous zone will not be determined.

For example, when in the RBB internal state, the probability of winning the winning area "Replay X" in the internal lottery is "7008/65536", but the probability of not being determined to transition to the advantageous zone increases accordingly. In other words, the probability of winning a winning area where the advantageous zone transition lottery is not executed in the internal lottery increases. This creates the problem that the start of the advantageous zone will be relatively delayed (increasing the number of plays required to transition to the advantageous zone).

In this embodiment, as described above, two types of winning areas, the winning area "Replay 1" and the winning area "Replay 2," are provided, and the value number of one (the winning area "Replay 1") is set (significantly) smaller than the value number of the other (the winning area "Replay 2"). The value number "4" assigned to the winning area "RBB" in the normal middle state is added to the value number of the winning area "Replay 1" (the winning area with the smaller value number) in the RBB internal middle state. This makes it possible to reduce the value number of the winning area "Replay 1," where the advantageous zone transition lottery is not executed. In other words, it is possible to lower the probability of winning a winning area where the advantageous zone transition lottery is not executed in the internal lottery. This prevents the advantageous zone from starting late.
In addition, the number of values assigned to the winning area "Replay 1" in the normal state is equal to or greater than the number of values assigned to the winning area "RBB," and the smaller the number, the better. In this embodiment, the smallest settable value, "4," is assigned. Also, the number of values assigned to the winning area "Replay 1" in the normal state is less than the number of values assigned to each of the winning areas in which RBB (big bonus) are won in duplicate in the normal state (winning areas "1 Plum 1,""1 Plum 1,""1 Plum 2," or "1 Plum 2"), and is also less than the number of values assigned to each of the winning areas "Plum Batting Order" (winning areas "Plum Batting Order A1,""Plum Batting Order A2,""Plum Batting Order A3,""Plum Batting Order A4,""Plum Batting Order B1,""Plum Batting Order B2,""Plum Batting Order B3," or "Plum Batting Order B4") in the normal state.

In this embodiment, in the normal state and the RBB internal state, if the winning area "Replay 1" is won (a game in which the winning area "Replay 1" is won) and if the winning area "Replay 2" is won (a game in which the winning area "Replay 2" is won), a lottery related to the same instruction function is executed. In other words, the winning areas "Replay 1" and "Replay 2" are triggered by a win and the same lottery related to the instruction function is executed. Examples of lotteries related to the instruction function include a lottery to determine whether to transition to a presentation state in which a batting order navigation presentation is executed (a presentation state with high expectations for gaining game value) and a lottery to determine whether to extend the duration of that presentation state. In other words, the winning areas "Replay 1" and "Replay 2" are winning areas in which the same winning combination (Replay 1) will be won if they are won, and are winning areas that are subject to the same lottery related to the instruction function. In this embodiment, the start of the advantageous zone is prevented from being delayed by the winning area "Replay 1," which is difficult for such players to distinguish from the winning area "Replay 2" (including cases where it is impossible to distinguish).

In this embodiment, for a game that wins the winning area "Replay 1" and a game that wins the winning area "Replay 2," a symbol combination indicating the winning form of a specific (identical) replay (Replay 1) is displayed on the pay line regardless of the batting order (the manner in which the stop button is pressed), but this is not limited to this. For example, if the game that wins the winning area "Replay 1" and the game that wins the winning area "Replay 2" are stopped in a predetermined batting order (by pressing the left button), a symbol combination indicating the winning form of a specific replay in each game is displayed on the pay line (the same replay will win). However, if the game that wins the winning area "Replay 1" and the game that wins the winning area "Replay 2" are stopped in a batting order different from the predetermined batting order (by pressing the center or right button), a symbol combination indicating the winning form of a different replay in each game may be displayed on the pay line (different replays may win). For example, the system may be configured as follows. In a game that wins the winning area "Replay 1," a symbol combination indicating a winning form for a specific replay will be displayed on the active line regardless of the operation mode (batting order) in which the stop operation is performed. On the other hand, in a game that wins the winning area "Replay 2," if the stop operation is performed in a specific batting order (for example, pressing right) and at a timing that allows a specified symbol to be displayed in a specified display position (if the stop operation is performed using the correct operation mode), a symbol combination different from the symbol combination indicating a winning form for a specific replay will be displayed on the active line, and if the stop operation is performed using an operation mode other than the correct operation mode (incorrect operation mode), a symbol combination indicating a winning form for a specific replay will be displayed on the active line.

The lottery for the instruction function to be executed may differ between when the winning area "Replay 1" is won and when the winning area "Replay 2" is won. For example, when the presentation state is a predetermined presentation state (e.g., an automatic timing presentation state), the lottery for the predetermined instruction function may not be executed when the winning area "Replay 1" is won, but may be executed when the winning area "Replay 2" is won. An example of the lottery for the predetermined instruction function is a lottery to determine whether or not to execute the effect that notifies the player of the correct operation mode (an effect that prompts the player to stop in the correct operation mode). In this case, if the lottery is won in a game in which the winning area "Replay 2" is won, an effect that notifies the player of the correct operation mode is executed. Furthermore, a bonus related to the batting order navigation effect (e.g., a transition to a favorable presentation state) may be granted based on the stop operation being performed in the correct operation mode and a predetermined symbol combination being displayed on the pay line. In other words, when winning is made in the winning areas "Replay 1" and "Replay 2", the same lottery related to the instruction function can be received does not necessarily mean that the same lottery can be received in all presentation states (in other words, regardless of the situation), and there may be cases where the same lottery cannot be received in at least some presentation states. Furthermore, when winning is made in the winning areas "Replay 1" and "Replay 2", the same lottery related to the instruction function can be received in addition to the same lottery for one of the winning areas, and it may also mean that for another winning area, a separate lottery can be received in addition to the same lottery.

Next, in this embodiment, we will explain the case where the presentation state control means 81 transitions the presentation state from the CZ presentation state to the AT preparation presentation state based on winning the AT lottery and being granted the right to transition to the AT presentation state, and transitions to the AT presentation state based on the establishment of specific conditions in the AT preparation presentation state.

In this embodiment, in the AT preparation display state, if the winning area "Plum Batting Order" is selected by internal lottery (in a game in which the "Plum Batting Order" winning area is selected), a specific navigation display (described below) can be executed. In a game in which the "Plum Batting Order" winning area is selected, if the stopping operation is performed in the correct batting order (correct operation mode), an 8-coin role (correct role) will be awarded, and if the stopping operation is performed in the incorrect batting order (incorrect operation mode), a 1-coin role (incorrect role) will be awarded. As shown in Figure 27, in the "Plum Batting Order" winning area, any of batting orders 3 through 6 is set as the correct batting order, and batting orders 1 and 2 are set as the incorrect batting orders. In the winning area "Batting Order Plum," if the left button is pressed, a 1-coin role (incorrect role) will be awarded; if the center or right button is pressed, an 8-coin role (correct role) will be awarded if the batting order is correct; and if the batting order is incorrect, either a 1-coin role (incorrect role) will be awarded or no role will be awarded. The winning area "Batting Order Plum" is configured so that if the stopping operation is performed in an incorrect batting order, the correct role will not be awarded, regardless of the timing of each stopping operation.

(Specific navigation effects)
In the AT preparation effect state, the instruction function control means 51 may determine to execute a specific navigation effect if the winning area "Plum Batting Order" is selected in the internal lottery (in a game in which the winning area "Plum Batting Order" is selected). The specific navigation effect is an effect that notifies the player of an incorrect batting order. When the execution of the specific navigation effect is determined, the effect control means 100 causes the LCD display 13 to display the incorrect batting order. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 42 , on the LCD display 13, an "x" is displayed in a position corresponding to the stop button 26a related to the first stop operation of the incorrect batting order, encouraging the player to avoid the first stop operation, and "?" characters are displayed in positions corresponding to the remaining two stop buttons 26 (stop button 26b and stop button 26c). The seven-segment display of the game information display unit 17 also displays a display (navigation display) corresponding to the operation mode notified by the specific navigation effect. The specific navigation effect may be executed whenever the winning area "Plum Batting Order" is selected in the AT preparation effect state.

The "x" display encourages users to avoid performing the stop operation first for a specific stop button (e.g., stop button 26a). The "?" character encourages users to perform the stop operation first for stop buttons other than the specific stop button (e.g., stop button 26b and stop button 26c).

In the example shown in FIG. 42, the "x" display is a display that indicates that a stop operation performed by pressing the left button (batting order 1 and batting order 2) is an incorrect batting order (a display that indicates that a stop operation performed by pressing the left button is not the correct batting order). In other words, the "x" display is a display that indicates that it is the first stop operation related to an incorrect batting order. The "?" character can be said to be a display that indicates that if a stop operation is performed by pressing the center button or the right button, it may result in a stop operation related to the correct batting order (any of batting orders 3 to 6). In other words, the "?" display is a display that indicates that there is both a possibility that it is the first stop operation related to the correct batting order and a possibility that it is the first stop operation related to an incorrect batting order.

A specific navigation effect is executed, and some of the multiple incorrect batting orders (for example, batting order 1 and batting order 2) are announced, thereby assisting in stopping the correct batting order (winning the correct role). The specific navigation effect can be said to be an effect that assists in winning the correct role by announcing the incorrect batting order out of the six possible batting orders.

In a game in which the "Plum Batting Order" winning area is selected through an internal lottery during an AT preparation display and a specific navigation display is executed, if the stop button corresponding to the "?" associated with the specific navigation display is first stopped (first stop operation) in accordance with the specific navigation display, the display state control means 81 determines that a specific condition has been met and transitions the display state to the AT display state (starts the AT display state), for example, triggered by the end of the game. When the first stop operation is performed during the game, the AT display state is transitioned to. The game results can include a stop operation in the correct batting order resulting in an 8-coin winning combination (when reels 20a-20c stop in a manner that displays the plum symbols "PL" in a straight line), a stop operation in the incorrect batting order resulting in a 1-coin winning combination, or a stop operation in the incorrect batting order resulting in no 1-coin winning combination (when neither combination is won). Hereinafter, a game in which the "Batting Order Plum" winning area is selected through an internal lottery during the AT preparation effect state and a specific navigation effect is executed will be referred to as a "specific game."

The bonus awarding means 82 determines that the bonus awarding conditions are met based on the first stop operation (first stop operation) of the stop button corresponding to the "?" display related to the specific navigation effect in accordance with the specific game, and executes a lottery (bonus awarding lottery) to determine whether or not to award a bonus related to the batting order navigation effect (hereinafter referred to as "bonus"). If the lottery is won, the bonus awarding means 82 awards a bonus. An example of a bonus is a bonus that extends the duration of the AT effect state (so-called an add-on). Note that the bonus awarding means 82 may always award a bonus based on the fulfillment of the bonus awarding conditions. In this case, the probability of winning the lottery may be 100%, or the bonus may always be awarded without executing the lottery.

In this embodiment, when the stop button 26 corresponding to the "?" display related to the specific navigation effect is first operated to stop in accordance with the specific navigation effect during a specific game, the AT effect state is initiated and a bonus may be awarded. In this case, the awarding of the bonus can be considered a benefit for performing the stop operation in accordance with the specific navigation effect.

On the other hand, if the specific navigation effect is not followed during a specific game and the stop button corresponding to the "X" display related to the specific navigation effect is operated first, the specific condition is not met (the specific condition is not met). In this case, the presentation state control means 81 does not transition the presentation state to the AT presentation state, but continues the AT preparation presentation state. Note that, if the specific navigation effect is not followed during a specific game and the specific condition is not met, the presentation state control means 81 may transition the presentation state to another presentation state, such as the normal presentation state, upon the end of the specific game.

In addition, if the stop button 26 corresponding to the "X" display related to the specific navigation effect is operated first without following the specific navigation effect in a specific game, the bonus awarding means 82 will determine that the bonus awarding conditions have not been met and will not execute the bonus awarding lottery (will not award a bonus).

In this embodiment, the gaming machine is configured to always initiate an AT presentation state when a stop operation is performed in a specific game without following a specific navigation effect, and a predetermined number of games (e.g., 1,650 games) are played in the AT preparation presentation state (e.g., from the first specific game) without a specific condition being met. If the AT presentation state is initiated based on the number of games reaching the predetermined number, the bonus awarding means 82 does not execute a bonus awarding lottery (does not award a bonus) triggered by the start of the AT presentation state (reaching the predetermined number of games). If the AT presentation state is initiated (forcibly) based on the number of games reaching the predetermined number of games, no bonus is awarded. Note that in this embodiment, the AT presentation state is initiated based on the execution of a predetermined number of games (e.g., 1,650 games) without a specific condition being met in the AT preparation presentation state (without the first stop operation being performed on the stop button corresponding to the "?" display related to the specific navigation effect). However, in addition to (or instead of) this, the AT presentation state may be configured to be initiated based on the fulfillment of a predetermined condition in the AT preparation presentation state without a specific condition being met. Examples of cases where the specified condition is met include when the stored value of the difference number counter 64, which manages the duration of the advantageous period, falls below a specified value. Also, if the storage means 60 is provided with a different difference number counter (a counter that manages the difference number of sheets in a specified period) from the difference number counter 64, the stored value of that difference number counter may fall below a specified value. Also, in the AT preparation presentation state, the number of times a specific role (e.g., an 8-piece role) is won within a certain period (during a specified number of consecutive games) may fall below a specified number.

In this embodiment, if the stop button corresponding to the "X" display related to the specific navigation effect is operated first during a specific game without following the specific navigation effect, the AT effect state will not start and no bonus will be awarded. Furthermore, in the AT preparation effect state, the AT effect state will start based on a predetermined number of games being played without transitioning to the AT effect state, but no bonus will be awarded when the AT effect state starts.

(Modification)
Next, another example of the establishment of a specific condition will be described. In this example, in a specific game, when the stop button corresponding to the display of "?" related to the specific navigation effect is operated to stop for the first time in accordance with the specific navigation effect, and when the stop operation is performed in the correct hitting order, the effect state control means 81 determines that the specific condition is established, and transitions the effect state to the AT effect state, for example, upon the end of the game.

As in the case described above, the bonus awarding means 82 determines that the bonus awarding conditions are met based on the first stop operation of the stop button corresponding to the "?" display related to the specific navigation effect in a specific game (regardless of whether the operation is performed in the correct batting order), and executes a bonus awarding lottery. The bonus awarding means 82 may also be configured to always award a bonus based on the satisfaction of the bonus awarding conditions.

In a specific game, if the stop button corresponding to the "?" displayed in the specific navigation effect is the first to be operated in accordance with the specific navigation effect, and if the stop operation is performed in the correct hitting order, the AT effect state will begin and a bonus may be awarded. In this case, the awarding of the bonus can be considered a benefit for operating the stop button in accordance with the specific navigation effect.

On the other hand, in a specific game, if the stop button corresponding to the "?" display related to the specific navigation effect is operated first in accordance with the specific navigation effect, but the stop operation is performed in an incorrect hitting order, the specific condition is not met (the specific condition is not met). In this case, the effect state control means 81 does not transition the effect state to the AT effect state, but continues the AT preparation effect state.

Even though the specific condition is not met, the bonus awarding means 82 determines that the bonus awarding condition is met because the stop button corresponding to the "?" display related to the specific navigation effect is the first to be stopped in accordance with the specific navigation effect in the specific game, and executes a bonus awarding lottery. The bonus awarding means 82 may always award a bonus based on the satisfaction of the bonus awarding condition.

In a specific game, if the stop button corresponding to the "?" displayed in the specific navigation effect is pressed first in accordance with the specific navigation effect, but the stop operation is performed in an incorrect hitting order, the AT effect state will not begin, but a bonus may be awarded. In this case, the awarding of the bonus can be seen as a way to make up for the loss felt by a player who pressed the stop button in accordance with the specific navigation effect but the AT effect state did not begin.

In addition, in this modified example, the AT presentation state is always initiated when a predetermined number of games (e.g., 1,650 games) have been played in the AT preparation presentation state (e.g., from the first specific game) without a specific condition being met. If the AT presentation state is initiated when the number of games has reached the predetermined number, the bonus awarding means 82 does not execute a bonus awarding lottery (does not award a bonus) in response to the transition to the AT presentation state. If the AT presentation state is initiated (forcibly) when the number of games has reached the predetermined number, no bonus is awarded. Note that, in this modified example, the AT presentation state may also be configured to be initiated when the above-mentioned predetermined condition is met without a specific condition being met in the AT preparation presentation state.

In addition, in a specific game, if the stop button corresponding to the "?" display related to the specific navigation effect is operated first in accordance with the specific navigation effect, but the stop operation is performed in an incorrect batting order, and the specific condition is not met, the bonus awarding condition may be deemed to be met; on the other hand, in a specific game, if the stop button corresponding to the "?" display related to the specific navigation effect is operated first in accordance with the specific navigation effect, and the stop operation is performed in the correct batting order, and the specific condition is met, the bonus awarding condition may not be met, and no bonus may be awarded.

In this embodiment, an example has been described in which the present invention is applied to a slot machine 10 that uses physical gaming medals as gaming value. The present invention may also be applied to gaming machines (medalless gaming machines) that use gaming value as electronic information rather than physical gaming medals, and in which games are played by consuming or being awarded gaming value. Unlike conventional slot machines in which physical medals are inserted to play and physical medals are paid out when winning combinations are achieved, medalless gaming machines use gaming value as electronic information, and gaming value is consumed or awarded through play. Note that gaming value in medalless gaming machines corresponds to medals, which are the gaming value in conventional slot machines, and gaming value in medalless gaming machines can be understood as virtual medals (electronic medals).

The medalless gaming machine includes a bet button corresponding to bet button 23, a start lever corresponding to start lever 24, stop buttons corresponding to stop buttons 26a-26c, reels corresponding to reels 20a-20c, a main control board corresponding to main control board 31, a sub-control board corresponding to sub-control board 32, and the like. The medalless gaming machine may have a structure similar to that of the gaming machine shown in the second embodiment. Furthermore, the medalless gaming machine may be configured to execute the same control as that of the gaming machines shown in the third to sixth embodiments.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the game control mode and configuration of the slot machine are not limited to those of the above-described embodiments. Furthermore, the control operations described above can be applied not only to slot machines but also to other gaming machines such as pachinko machines. The present invention can be applied to gaming machines, including slot machines, pachinko machines, medal-less gaming machines, etc.
Furthermore, within the scope of the present invention, the components can be freely combined, or any component can be modified or omitted.

20a, 20b, 20c Reels 26a, 26b, 26c Stop button 42 Internal lottery means 43 Reel control means 100 Performance control means

Claims (1)

A plurality of reels on which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged;
a plurality of stop buttons capable of performing a stop operation to stop the rotation of the plurality of reels;
An internal lottery means for performing an internal lottery to determine whether a winning combination is achieved;
reel control means for controlling the reels to stop in a manner according to the result of the internal lottery based on the stop operation;
a performance control means for controlling the performance,
The winning patterns obtained in the internal lottery include specific winning patterns,
The specific winning mode is a winning mode in which, when the stop button is operated to stop in a specific operation mode, a specific symbol is displayed at a predetermined display position,
the effect control means is capable of executing, at a predetermined opportunity, consecutive effects across a first game, a second game following the first game, and a third game following the second game;
The effect control means is capable of executing a first effect that suggests that the specific symbol is displayed at a predetermined display position, and a second effect that is different from the first effect,
the probability that the first effect will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the first game is higher than the probability that the first effect will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game, and is also higher than the probability that the first effect will be executed when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game;
The gaming machine has a higher probability of executing the second performance when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the second game than a higher probability of executing the second performance when the specific winning pattern is obtained in the third game.