JP7729587B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Some gaming machines perform mode entry effects when there is a change in the presentation mode.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-9369

The proposed gaming machine still has room for improvement in terms of presentation that corresponds to the gameplay.
In one aspect, the present invention provides a gaming machine that can enhance entertainment value through a variety of game features.

In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine is provided in which a player can select either a hitting method of shooting the gaming ball to the left side of the gaming board or a hitting method of shooting the gaming ball to the right side of the gaming board, as shown below. The gaming machine includes a presentation means capable of executing a predetermined presentation for presenting a game, and a control means for controlling a transition from a first gaming state in which a first game and a second game can be executed and in which the first game can be executed mainly by selecting one of the playing methods to a second gaming state in which the second game can be executed mainly by selecting the other of the playing methods when a predetermined condition is met, the control means having a reservation storage means for storing the number of execution rights for the first game as a first reservation memory number and for storing the number of execution rights for the second game as a second reservation memory number, the presentation means including display means capable of displaying predetermined presentation displays in a first display area , a second display area larger than the first display area, and a third display area , and capable of displaying a number display corresponding to the first reservation memory number and a number display corresponding to the second reservation memory number side by side in the first display area, and in the second gaming state after the transition, when the first game is executed without being triggered to execute the second game, the number displays are displayed side by side in the first display area, and the second game state is controlled by the control means. A first guidance display that provides guidance on how to play across the above-mentioned first games can be displayed in the second display area, and a second guidance display that provides guidance that the second game state is in effect when the second game is executed upon receiving an opportunity to execute the second game can be displayed in the third display area, and when the first guidance display is displayed in the second display area across two or more first games with numeric displays displayed side by side in the first display area , the first guidance display is terminated if the first pending memory number does not increase, and when the first guidance display is displayed in the second display area across two or more first games with numeric displays displayed side by side in the first display area, the second guidance display is displayed in the third display area without re-displaying the first guidance display when a power outage occurs and the power is restored from the power outage, and the first guidance display can be displayed including both a message and a pictogram, and the first guidance display can be displayed by switching between a first guidance display mode that provides guidance on how to play in a first mode and a second guidance display mode that provides guidance on how to play in a second mode different from the first mode.

According to one aspect, gaming machines can increase entertainment value through a variety of gameplay features.

1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front view showing an example of a game board according to the first embodiment. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a control system for a gaming machine according to a first embodiment; 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a performance control device of a first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a collective display device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart (part 1) of a main process according to the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a second flowchart of the main process according to the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a flowchart (part 3) illustrating the main processing according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart (part 4) illustrating the main processing according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart (part 5) of the main process according to the first embodiment; FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a timer interrupt process according to the first embodiment. A figure showing a flowchart of main processing in the performance control device of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a state transition of a game state in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of game performance according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example (part 1) of a game display screen according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example (part 2) of the game display screen of the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example (part 3) of the game display screen of the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example (part 4) of the game display screen of the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example (part 5) of the game display screen of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a presentation flow for mode transition presentation in the first embodiment. A figure showing an example of mode transition performance time and minimum guaranteed time in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a rendering mode switching condition in the first embodiment. A figure showing an example of switching of the effect display area in a modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example (part 1) of a timing chart of a mode transition effect execution period in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example (part 2) of a timing chart of the mode transition effect execution period of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example (part 3) of a timing chart of the mode transition effect execution period of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example (part 4) of a timing chart of the mode transition effect execution period of the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[First embodiment]
First, a first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to the first embodiment.

The gaming machine 10 of the first embodiment includes a front frame 12 that is attached to an outer frame (support frame) 11 so that it can be rotated open and closed, with the left side being the mounting side and the right side being the open side when viewed from the front. The gaming board 30 (see Figure 2) is stored in a storage section (not shown) formed on the front side of the front frame 12. Attached to the front frame (main body frame) 12 is a glass frame (transparent member holding frame) 15 equipped with a cover glass (transparent member) 14 that covers the front of the gaming board 30.

Furthermore, on the left and right sides of the glass frame 15, there are provided frame decoration devices 18 that incorporate lamps and LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) etc. for decoration and presentation, as well as for alerting in the event of an abnormality (for example, if a dispensing abnormality occurs, the lamps or LEDs will light up (blink) in an abnormality alert color (for example, red)), and a speaker (upper speaker) 19a that emits sound (for example, sound effects). Furthermore, a speaker (lower speaker) 19b is also provided at the bottom of the front frame 12. Furthermore, in the event of an abnormality, the details of the abnormality are announced by voice from speakers 19a and 19b. It is also possible to provide a lamp for alerting to dispensing abnormalities in a predetermined location on the glass frame 15.

In addition, the lower part of the front frame 12 is provided with an upper tray (storage tray) 21 that supplies game balls to a ball launcher (not shown), an upper tray ball outlet 22 through which game balls dispensed from a payout unit provided on the back side of the gaming machine 10 flow out, a lower tray (receiving tray) 23 that stores game balls dispensed when the upper tray 21 is full, and an operating unit 24 for the ball launcher.

Furthermore, the upper edge of the upper tray 21 is provided with an effect button 25 used to intervene in game effects, etc. The effect button 25 functions as an effect operation reception unit that accepts operations to intervene in game effects, and also functions as an effect unit that can produce effects in the required manner (for example, lighting, vibration, protrusion, etc.). The left edge of the upper tray 21 is provided with an option setting unit 29 where the player can set various options. The option setting unit 29 is provided with a cross cursor switch that can accept input operations in four directions, a central switch in the center of the cross cursor switch that can accept confirmation operations, etc., and two auxiliary switches located on the periphery of the cross cursor switch that are used for volume control, etc. Furthermore, a keyhole 26 is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 12 for inserting a key to unlock or lock the front frame 12 and glass frame 15.

The gaming machine 10 can perform effects that involve player intervention based on player operation received from the effect button switch 25a (see Figure 4), which detects operation (e.g., pressing) of the effect button 25 (push button). For example, effects that involve player intervention include effects in a variable display game (decorative special symbol variable display game) on the display device (variable display device) 41 (see Figure 2). The gaming machine 10 can move characters displayed on the display device 41 or stop identification information displayed on the display device 41 in the decorative special symbol variable display game. Such player intervention may be achieved using not only the effect button 25 but also one or more of the switches (cross cursor switch, center switch, auxiliary switch) of the option setting unit 29. In Figure 4, described below, the switches of the option setting unit 29 are collectively referred to as setting switches 29a.

Also, to the right of the effect button 25 are a ball lending button 27 that the player operates when borrowing balls from an adjacent ball lending machine, an ejection button 28 that is operated to eject a prepaid card from the card unit of the ball lending machine, and a balance display unit (not shown) that displays the balance on the prepaid card. In this first embodiment of the gaming machine 10, when the player rotates the operation unit 24, the ball launching device launches game balls supplied from the upper tray 21 toward the game area 32 (see Figure 2) on the front of the gaming board 30. Furthermore, by operating one or more of the setting switches 29a (cross cursor switch, center switch, accessory switch) of the option setting unit 29, the player can, for example, set the volume emitted from the speakers 19a, 19b or the brightness of the gaming board 30.

Next, the game board 30 will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a front view showing an example of the game board of the first embodiment.
A substantially circular play area 32 surrounded by guide rails 31 is formed on the surface of the play board 30. The play area 32 is surrounded by resin side cases 33 and the guide rails 31, which are provided at each of the four corners of the play board 30. A center case (game presentation structure) 40 equipped with a display device (variable display device) 41 is located approximately in the center of the play area 32. The display device 41 is attached to a recess provided in the center case 40, at a position recessed from the front surface of the center case 40. In other words, the center case 40 surrounds the periphery of the display area of the display device 41 and protrudes forward beyond the display surface of the display device 41, so as to make it difficult for game balls to fly into it from the surrounding play area 32.

The display device 41 is configured with a display screen such as an LCD (liquid crystal display) or CRT (cathode ray tube). The display device 41 may also be configured with other display devices, such as a device with a display screen capable of LED dot matrix display, or a combination of two or more display devices. The area (display area) on the display screen capable of displaying images displays information related to the game, such as multiple identification information (special symbols), characters that create the special symbol variable display game, and background images that enhance the presentation effects. The display screen of the display device 41 displays a variable display (variable display) of multiple special symbols assigned as identification information, and a decorative special symbol variable display game corresponding to the special symbol variable display game is played. The display screen also displays images for presentations based on the progress of the game (for example, a jackpot display image, a fanfare display image, an ending display image, etc.).

In addition, the top of the center case 40 is equipped with a board presentation device 44 that operates to present the game. This board presentation device 44 can be operated from the state shown in Figure 2 toward the center of the display device 41.

A normal symbol start gate (normal symbol start gate) 34 is provided below and to the right of the center case 40 in the gaming area 32, which sets the conditions for starting the normal symbol variable display game. A gaming ball that enters the normal symbol start gate 34 (a gaming ball that passes through the normal symbol start gate 34) is detected by a gate switch 34a (see Figure 3).

In addition, a general winning opening 35 is located below the center case 40 in the gaming area 32 on the left side, and another general winning opening 35 is located below the center case 40 on the right side, to the right of the special variable winning device 95 (described below). Gaming balls that win through these general winning openings 35 are detected by winning opening switches 35a (see Figure 3).

In addition, below the center case 40 in the game area 32, there is a start winning hole 36 (start winning hole 1) which forms the first start winning hole (start winning area) that provides the starting conditions for the first special symbol variable display game (special symbol 1 variable display game). A game ball that enters the start winning hole 36 is detected by the start winning hole 1 switch 36a (see Figure 3).

In addition, below the starting winning hole 36, an outlet 30a is provided for collecting game balls that do not enter the winning holes or the like.
Additionally, below the center case 40 and to the left of the normal game start gate 34, a normal game winning device 37 (second start winning port, start winning area) is provided, which provides the conditions for starting the second special game (the special game 2 game). The normal game winning device 37 (starting port 2) has a movable member 37b at the inlet portion. The movable member 37b slides forward and backward using a normal solenoid 37c (see Figure 3) to switch between a blocking state that blocks game balls from entering the inlet portion and a retracted state that allows game balls to enter the inlet portion. The movable member 37b is normally closed (a state disadvantageous to the player). When the result of the normal game is a predetermined stop display pattern, the movable member 37b is switched to an open state (a state advantageous to the player). A game ball that has won in the normal variable winning device 37 is detected by the start port 2 switch 37a (see Figure 3). It is also possible to make it possible to win even when the normal variable winning device 37 is closed, and to make it more difficult to win when it is closed than when it is open. The normal variable winning device 37 corresponds to a normal electric device (normal power).

In addition, a special variable prize winning device (large prize opening 1) 38 is provided on the right side of the center case 40 in the game area 32. The special variable prize winning device 38 can be switched between a state that does not accept game balls and a state that accepts game balls easily depending on the results of the special symbol variable display games (special symbol 1 variable display game and special symbol 2 variable display game). The special variable prize winning device 38 has an opening/closing member (movable piece) 38c, and depending on the results of the special symbol variable display game as an auxiliary game, the opening/closing member 38c closes the large prize opening and converts it from a closed state (a blocked state that is disadvantageous to the player) to an open state (a state that is advantageous to the player) that can accept game balls flowing down the game area 32 by retracting the opening/closing member 38c. Specifically, the special variable prize winning device 38 includes a large prize opening (large prize opening 1) that is opened and closed by an opening/closing member 38c driven by a large prize opening 1 solenoid 38b (see FIG. 3) that serves as a driving device. During a jackpot game state (special game state) resulting from the results of the special symbol 1 variable display game and the special symbol 2 variable display game, and during a jackpot game state (special game state) resulting from winning in a specific area 96 (described below), the large prize opening is converted from a closed state to an open state, facilitating the flow of game balls into the large prize opening and awarding the player a predetermined game value (prize balls). Inside the large prize opening (winning area), a large prize opening switch (count switch) 38a (see FIG. 3) is provided as a detection means for detecting game balls that enter the large prize opening.

In addition, a special variable prize winning device (large prize opening 2) 95 is provided on the lower right side of the center case 40 in the game area 32. The special variable prize winning device 95 can be switched between a state that does not accept game balls and a state that accepts game balls easily depending on the results of the special symbol variable display games (special symbol 1 variable display game and special symbol 2 variable display game). The special variable prize winning device 95 has an opening/closing member (opening/closing door) 95c, and depending on the results of the special symbol variable display game as an auxiliary game, the opening/closing member 95c closes the large prize opening and converts it from a closed state (a blocked state that is disadvantageous to the player) to an open state (a state that is advantageous to the player) that can accept game balls flowing down the game area 32 by retracting the opening/closing member 95c. Specifically, the special variable prize winning device 95 has a large prize opening (large prize opening 2) that is opened and closed by an opening/closing member 95c driven by a large prize opening 2 solenoid 95b (see Figure 3) that serves as a driving device. During a small win game state resulting from the results of the special prize 1 variable display game and the special prize 2 variable display game, the large prize opening is converted from a closed state to an open state, facilitating the flow of game balls into the large prize opening and awarding the player a predetermined game value (prize balls). Inside the large prize opening (winning area), a large prize opening switch (count switch) 38a (see Figure 3) is disposed as a detection means for detecting game balls that enter the large prize opening.

The special variable prize-winning device 95 also has a V-channel that guides game balls that enter the prize-winning port to the specific area 96. The special variable prize-winning device 95 is equipped with a specific area switch 38e (see Figure 3) that detects game balls that have flowed into the specific area 96. The detection of a game ball by the specific area switch 38e (entry into the specific area 96) is one of the conditions for generating a jackpot game state (special game state) that converts the special variable prize-winning device (large prize-winning port 1) 38 from a closed state to an open state.

Furthermore, the center case 40 does not have a warp flow path, but may be configured to have one. For example, a warp port (warp entrance) may be provided on the left side of the center case 40, and game balls that flow into the warp flow path from the warp port may be made to roll on a stage inside the center case 40, with some of them being guided to the warp exit. In this case, the warp exit may be positioned directly above the start winning opening 36, making it easier for game balls guided to the warp exit to enter the start winning opening 36.

In the first embodiment of the gaming machine 10, within the gaming area 32 into which gaming balls flow, the area to the left of the center case 40 is designated the left gaming area, and the area to the right of the center case 40 is designated the right gaming area. By adjusting the launch force and firing gaming balls into the left gaming area (so-called left shots), the player can aim for a win in the start winning slot 36 or the general winning slot 35 (located in the left gaming area), and by firing gaming balls into the right gaming area (so-called right shots), the player can aim for a win in the normal starting gate 34, the normal variable winning device 37, the special variable winning devices 38, 95, the general winning slot 35 (located in the right gaming area), etc.

In addition, outside the play area 32 (here, the lower right corner of the playboard 30), there is provided a collective display device 50 that displays the first special chart change display game and the second special chart change display game, which constitute the special chart change display game, and the normal chart change display game, which is triggered by winning the normal chart start gate 34, as well as various information.

The collective display device 50 includes a round display unit 51 composed of LEDs or the like, a special chart 1 reserved display unit 52, a special chart 1 pattern display unit 53, a special chart 2 pattern display unit 54, a regular chart pattern display unit 55, a regular chart reserved display unit 56, and a status display unit 57 (see Figure 5). Details of the collective display device 50 will be described later.

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a right-hit guide display device 91c located near the right side of the special variable prize device (large prize slot 1) 38. The right-hit guide display device 91c lights up when instructing the player to hit the ball to the right, and is off in other cases. The right-hit guide display device 91c is included in the board decoration device 46.

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a special symbol game change display status display device 98 at the bottom right of the center case 40 in the play area 32. The special symbol game change display status display device 98 is a so-called fourth symbol display device and is composed of two LEDs. The special symbol game change display status display device 98 displays the change display status of the special symbol 1 change display game with the left LED, and the change display status of the special symbol 2 change display game with the right LED. For example, the special symbol game change display status display device 98 indicates the symbol stop state of the special symbol change display game by lighting up, and indicates the symbol change state of the special symbol change display game by flashing. The special symbol game change display status display device 98 is included in the board decoration device 46.

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a normal map variation display device 93 and a normal map reserve display device 94 on the right side of the center case 40 in the play area 32. The normal map variation display device 93 is composed of two LEDs, and indicates the variation display status of the normal map game by alternating flashing, and indicates the result of the variation display of the normal map game by a combination of lighting and extinguishing. The normal map reserve display device 94 is also composed of two LEDs, and indicates the number of reserved normal maps, from 0 to 4, by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, and flashing. The normal map variation display device 93 and normal map reserve display device 94 are included in the board decoration device 46.

Next, the control system of the gaming machine will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the control system of the gaming machine of the first embodiment.
The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a gaming control device 100, which is a main control device (main board) that controls the overall game, and is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) section 110 having a gaming microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as the gaming microcomputer) 111, an input section 120 having an input port, an output section 130 having an output port, a driver, etc., and a data bus 140 that connects the CPU section 110, the input section 120, and the output section 130.

The CPU unit 110 includes a gaming microcomputer 111, known as an amusement chip (IC (Integrated Circuit)), and an oscillator circuit (crystal oscillator) 113 equipped with an oscillator such as a quartz crystal resonator, which generates the operating clock for the gaming microcomputer 111, timer interrupts, and the clock that serves as the reference for the random number generation circuit. The gaming control device 100 and electronic components driven by the gaming control device 100, such as solenoids and motors, are powered by a DC (Direct Current) voltage of a predetermined level, such as 32V DC, 12V DC, or 5V DC, generated by the power supply unit 400, and are made operational.

The power supply unit 400 includes a normal power supply unit 410 that includes an AC (Alternating Current)-DC converter that generates the above-mentioned DC 32V DC voltage from a 24V AC power supply and a DC-DC converter that generates lower level DC voltages such as DC 12V or DC 5V from DC 32V; a backup power supply unit 420 that supplies power supply voltage to the RAM (Random Access Memory) inside the gaming microcomputer 111 in the event of a power outage; and a control signal generation unit 430 that includes a power outage monitoring circuit and generates and outputs control signals such as a power outage monitoring signal and a reset signal that notify the gaming control device 100 of the occurrence and recovery of a power outage.

In the first embodiment, the power supply unit 400 is configured separately from the game control device 100, but the backup power supply unit 420 and control signal generation unit 430 may be configured to be provided on a separate board or integrated with the game control device 100, i.e., on the main board. The game board 30 and game control device 100 are subject to replacement when changing models, so by providing the backup power supply unit 420 and control signal generation unit 430 on a board separate from the power supply unit 400 or main board, as in the first embodiment, they are not subject to replacement, thereby reducing costs.

The backup power supply unit 420 can be composed of a single large-capacity capacitor such as an electrolytic capacitor. The backup power supply is supplied to the gaming microcomputer 111 (particularly the built-in RAM) of the gaming control device 100, so that data stored in the RAM is retained even during a power outage or after power is cut off. The control signal generation unit 430 monitors the 32V voltage generated by the normal power supply unit 410, and if it drops below 17V, for example, detects a power outage and changes the power outage monitoring signal, while outputting a reset signal after a predetermined time has passed. It also outputs a reset signal after a predetermined time has passed from the time the power is turned on or when power is restored.

The gaming control device 100 is also provided with a RAM initialization switch 112. When this RAM initialization switch 112 is operated, an initialization switch signal is generated, and based on this, a process is performed to forcibly initialize the information stored in RAM 111C in the gaming microcomputer 111 and the RAM in the payout control device 200. Although not particularly limited, the initialization switch signal is read when the power is turned on, and the power outage monitoring signal is repeatedly read within the main loop of the main program executed by the gaming microcomputer 111. The reset signal is a type of forced interrupt signal that resets the entire control system.

The game control device 100 is also provided with a setting value change switch 126 and a setting key switch 127. The setting value change switch 126 is, for example, a push switch that detects a push operation. The setting key switch 127 can be switched between an ON state and an OFF state by inserting a setting key. The game control device 100 is capable of changing settings related to game performance, and the settings stored in RAM are retained even during a power outage or after a power cut. For example, the game control device 100 allows the winning probability of the special chart 1 variable display game and the special chart 2 variable display game to be changed according to six settings.

When the game control device 100 is powered on with the setting key switch 127 in the ON state and the RAM initialization switch 112 in the ON state, the control state transitions to a setting change mode in which the settings of the gaming machine 10 can be changed. For example, in the setting change mode, the game control device 100 displays the setting contents on the probability setting value display device 136, and enables cyclic changes from setting 1 to setting 6 by detecting the pressing of the setting value change switch 126. The probability setting value display device 136 is a display device capable of displaying setting values, such as a single-digit 7-segment LED mounted on a circuit board.

Furthermore, when the game control device 100 is powered on with the setting key switch 127 in the ON state and the RAM initialization switch 112 in the OFF state, the control state transitions to a setting confirmation mode in which the settings of the gaming machine 10 can be confirmed. For example, in the setting confirmation mode, the game control device 100 displays the setting contents on the probability setting value display device 136.

The gaming microcomputer 111 includes a CPU (central processing unit: microprocessor) 111A, a read-only ROM (read-only memory) 111B, and a RAM 111C that can be read and written at any time.

ROM 111B stores unchanging information for game control (programs, fixed data, various random number judgment values, etc.) in a non-volatile manner, while RAM 111C is used as a working area for CPU 111A during game control or as a storage area for various signals and random numbers. ROM 111B or RAM 111C may be electrically rewritable non-volatile memory such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM).

ROM 111B also stores a variation pattern table for determining a variation pattern (variation mode) that stipulates, for example, the execution time of the special chart variation display game, the presentation content, and whether or not a reach state occurs. The variation pattern table is a table that CPU 111A uses to determine a variation pattern by referencing variation pattern random number 1, variation pattern random number 2, and variation pattern random number 3 stored as start memory. The variation pattern table also includes a miss variation pattern table that is selected when the result is a miss, a jackpot variation pattern table that is selected when the result is a jackpot, and the like. Furthermore, these pattern tables include tables (such as a second-half variation group table and a second-half variation pattern selection table) for determining a second-half variation pattern, which is a variation pattern after a reach state is reached, and tables (such as a first-half variation group table and a first-half variation pattern selection table) for determining a first-half variation pattern, which is a variation pattern before a reach state is reached.

Here, "reach" (reach state) refers to a display state in a gaming machine 10 that has a display device with a variable display state, which derives and displays multiple display results at different times, and in which the gaming state becomes advantageous to the player (special gaming state) when the multiple display results become a predetermined special result mode. Even when some of the multiple display results have not yet been derived and displayed, the display result already derived and displayed satisfies the conditions for becoming a special result mode. In other words, a "reach state" refers to a display mode that does not deviate from the display conditions for becoming a special result mode, even when the display device's variable display control progresses and the display result reaches a stage just before being derived and displayed. For example, a state in which multiple variable display areas are displayed while maintaining a set of special result modes (a so-called "full rotation reach") is also included in the "reach state." Additionally, a reach state refers to the display state at the point when the display control of the display device has progressed to a stage just before the display result is derived and displayed, and when at least some of the display results of the multiple variable display areas determined before the display result is derived and displayed meet the conditions for a special result mode.

So, for example, if a decorative special symbol variable display game displayed on a display device in response to a special symbol variable display game displays multiple identification information for a predetermined period of time in each of the left, center, and right variable display areas on the display device, and then stops the display in the order of left, right, and center to display the result state, a reach state is reached when the conditions for a special result state are met in the left and right variable display areas (for example, the same identification information) and the variable display stops. Furthermore, once the variable display in all variable display areas has been temporarily stopped, a reach state can be reached when the conditions for a special result state are met in any two of the left, center, and right variable display areas (for example, the same identification information, excluding the special result state), and the remaining variable display area can be displayed from this reach state.

This reach state includes multiple reach effects, with reach effects that have different possibilities (different expected values) for leading to a special result mode: normal reach (N reach), special 1 reach (SP1 reach), special 2 reach (SP2 reach), special 3 reach (SP3 reach), and premium reach. The expected values increase in the following order: "no reach" < "normal reach" < "special 1 reach" < "special 2 reach" < "special 3 reach" < "premium reach." This reach state is included in the variable display modes when a special result mode is derived (a jackpot occurs) in at least the special chart variable display game. In other words, it may also be included in the variable display modes when it is determined that a special result mode will not be derived (a miss occurs) in the special chart variable display game. Therefore, a state in which a reach state has occurred is a state with a higher probability of leading to a jackpot compared to when a reach state does not occur.

The CPU 111A executes the game control program in the ROM 111B to generate control signals (commands) for the payout control device 200 and the presentation control device 300, and generates and outputs drive signals for the solenoids and display devices, thereby controlling the entire gaming machine 10. Furthermore, although not shown, the gaming microcomputer 111 is equipped with a random number generation circuit for generating a jackpot random number for determining a win in the special symbol variable display game, a jackpot symbol random number for determining the jackpot symbol, a fluctuation pattern random number for determining the fluctuation pattern in the special symbol variable display game (including the execution time of the variable display game for various reach and no-reach variable displays), and a win random number for determining a win in the normal symbol variable display game, as well as a clock generator that generates a timer interrupt signal at a predetermined period (e.g., 4 milliseconds (ms)) for the CPU 111A and a clock that provides update timing for the random number generation circuit based on an oscillation signal (original clock signal) from the oscillation circuit 113.

Furthermore, in processing related to the special symbol variation display game, CPU 111A acquires one of the plurality of variation pattern tables stored in ROM 111B. Specifically, CPU 111A selects and acquires one of the plurality of variation pattern tables based on the game result of the special symbol variation display game (win (big win or small win) or loss), the probability state of the special symbol variation display game as the current game state (normal probability state or high probability state), the operating state of the normal variation winning device 37 as the current game state (time-saving operating state), the number of start memories, etc. Here, when executing the special symbol variation display game, CPU 111A serves as a variation allocation information acquisition means that acquires one of the plurality of variation pattern tables stored in ROM 111B.

The payout control device 200 is equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, input interface, output interface, etc., and controls the operation of driving the payout motor of the payout unit provided in the gaming machine 10 and paying out prize balls in accordance with prize ball payout commands (commands and data) from the gaming control device 100. The payout control device 200 also controls the operation of driving the payout motor of the payout unit and paying out loaned balls based on a ball loan request signal from the card unit of the ball loaning machine attached to the gaming machine 10.

The input section 120 of the gaming microcomputer 111 is connected to the start gate 1 switch 36a in the start gate 36, the start gate 2 switch 37a in the normal variable winning device 37, the gate switch 34a in the normal start gate 34, the winning gate switch 35a, the large winning gate switch 38a in the special variable winning devices 38 and 95, and the specific area switch 38e in the special variable winning device 95. An interface chip (proximity I/F) 121 is provided that receives negative logic signals, such as a high level of 11V and a low level of 7V, supplied from these switches and converts them into positive logic signals of 0V-5V. The proximity I/F 121 also receives a detection signal from the board radio wave sensor 62, which detects radio wave emissions to the gaming machine 10. Additionally, the proximity I/F 121 has an input range of 7V-11V, which allows it to detect abnormal conditions such as when the lead wires of a sensor or proximity switch are improperly shorted, when a sensor or switch is removed from a connector, or when the lead wires are cut and floating, and is configured to output an abnormality detection signal.

Regarding the prize slot switch 35a, while the prize slot switch 35a is shown as a single block in Figure 3, multiple (n) prize slot switches 35a (three in this embodiment) are actually provided on the game board 30, and each signal is input to the proximity I/F 121 via a different signal line. Also, while the special prize slot switch 38a is shown as a single block in Figure 3, multiple (x) special prize slot switches 38a (three in this embodiment) are actually provided on the game board 30. These multiple special prize slot switches 38a are connected to each other via different signal lines, or are connected to the game control device 100 via a wired OR configuration on a relay board (not shown) located between the switch and the game control device 100 (main board). The board radio wave sensor 62 and the magnetic sensor 61, described below, may also be connected via different signal lines, or may similarly be connected to the game control device 100 via a wired OR configuration.

The output of the proximity I/F 121 is supplied to the second input port 123 or the third input port 124 and read into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. Of the outputs of the proximity I/F 121, the detection signals of the start port 1 switch 36a, the start port 2 switch 37a, the gate switch 34a, the prize port switch 35a, the large prize port switch 38a, and the specific area switch 38e are input to the second input port 123. Although the signal output (output from the proximity I/F 121) of the start port switches in Figure 1, namely the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a, is shown as one signal line in Figure 3, there are actually two.

Furthermore, among the outputs of the proximity I/F 121, the detection signal of the board radio wave sensor 62 and the abnormality detection signal output when an abnormality in the sensor or switch is detected are input to the third input port 124. The third input port 124 also receives the detection signal of the fraud detection magnetic sensor 61 provided on the front frame 12 or the like of the gaming machine 10, the detection signal of the glass frame open detection switch 63 provided on the glass frame 15 or the like of the gaming machine 10, the detection signal of the main frame open detection switch 64 provided on the front frame (main frame) 12 or the like of the gaming machine 10, the detection signal of the setting value change switch 126, the detection signal of the setting key switch 127, and the touch switch signal from the payout control device 200 (a signal based on the input of a touch switch provided on the operation unit 24).

Furthermore, of the outputs of the proximity I/F 121, the output to the second input port 123 is also supplied from the game control device 100 to a test firing device (not shown) via the relay board 70. Furthermore, of the outputs of the proximity I/F 121, the detection signals of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a are configured to be input to the game microcomputer 111 in addition to the second input port 123.

As described above, the proximity I/F 121 has a signal level conversion function. To enable this level conversion function, the proximity I/F 121 is supplied with a voltage of 12 V from the power supply unit 400 in addition to the voltage required for normal IC operation, such as 5 V.

The data held in the second input port 123 can be read by the gaming microcomputer 111 asserting (changing to an active level) the chip enable signal CE (Chip Enable), not shown, by decoding the address assigned to the second input port 123. The same applies to the third input port 124 and the first input port 122, which will be described later.

The input unit 120 also has a first input port 122 that takes in the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112, the frame radio wave invalid signal from the payout control device 200 (a signal output based on the detection of radio waves by the frame radio wave sensor provided on the front frame 12), the payout busy signal (a signal indicating whether the payout control device 200 is in a state where it can accept commands), the payout abnormality status signal (a status signal indicating a payout abnormality), the shot ball out switch signal (a signal indicating a shortage of game balls before payout), the overflow switch signal (a signal output when it is detected that the lower tray 23 has more than a predetermined amount of game balls stored (is full)), and the out ball detection switch signal (a signal output when an out ball is detected), and supplies these to the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140.

The out ball detection switch signal is a signal output from the out sensor (not shown) each time the out sensor detects an out ball from the gaming machine 10. For example, the out ball detection switch signal is provided in an outlet flow path (not shown) between the outlet (not shown) that discharges gaming balls (out balls) from the gaming machine 10 and the outlet 30a. The out ball detection switch signal is used to calculate the game performance (e.g., base) per specified operation (e.g., 60,000 out balls), and the calculated game performance is displayed on the performance display device 135. The out ball detection switch signal may be input to the performance control device 300. In this case, the out ball detection switch signal may be used to determine the operating status that triggers switching to game performance or customer waiting screen display. For example, the performance display device 135 may be a four-digit seven-segment LED that can display game performance in decimal or hexadecimal.

The gaming machine 10 may also be provided with a vibration sensor switch that detects vibrations, and the detection signal of this vibration sensor switch may be input to the first input port 122 or the third input port 124.

The gaming control device 100 is also provided with a Schmitt buffer 125 for inputting signals such as a power outage monitoring signal and a reset signal from the power supply unit 400 to the gaming microcomputer 111, etc. The Schmitt buffer 125 has the function of removing noise from these input signals. The power outage monitoring signal from the power supply unit 400 and the initialization switch signal from the RAM initialization switch 112 are first input to the first input port 122 and then taken into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. In other words, they are treated as signals equivalent to the signals from the various switches mentioned above. This is because there are restrictions on the number of terminals provided on the gaming microcomputer 111 that can receive signals from outside.

On the other hand, the reset signal RESET, which has been noise-filtered by the Schmitt buffer 125, is input directly to the reset terminal provided on the gaming microcontroller 111 and supplied to each port of the output unit 130. The reset signal RESET is also configured to be output directly to the relay board 70 without going through the output unit 130, thereby turning off the test firing signal held in a port (not shown) of the relay board 70 for output to the test firing device. The reset signal RESET may also be configured to be output to the test firing device via the relay board 70. The reset signal RESET is not supplied to the first to third input ports 122, 123, and 124 of the input unit 120. The data set by the gaming microcomputer 111 to each port of the output unit 130 immediately before the reset signal RESET is received must be reset to prevent system malfunction, but the data read by the gaming microcomputer 111 from each port of the input unit 120 immediately before the reset signal RESET is received is discarded when the gaming microcomputer 111 is reset.

The output unit 130 is provided with a Schmitt buffer 132 arranged on the communication path from the gaming microcomputer 111 to the presentation control device 300 and the communication path from the gaming microcomputer 111 to the payout control device 200. Data is transmitted from the gaming control device 100 to the presentation control device 300 and the payout control device 200 via serial communication. Note that serial communication from the gaming control device 100 to the presentation control device 300 and the payout control device 200 is one-way communication that prevents signals from being input from the presentation control device 300 to the gaming control device 100.

Furthermore, the output unit 130 is configured to be able to mount a buffer 133 that is connected to the data bus 140 and outputs data informing the certification organization's test firing device (not shown) of special symbol information for the variable display game and signals indicating the probability of a jackpot via the relay board 70. This buffer 133 is a component that is not mounted on the game control device (main board) of the actual pachinko gaming machine (mass-produced product) installed in an amusement parlor. Note that detection signals from switches that do not require processing, such as the start switch, output from the proximity I/F 121 are supplied to the test firing device via the relay board 70 without passing through the buffer 133.

On the other hand, detection signals that cannot be supplied directly to the test firing device, such as those from the magnetic sensor 61 and the radio wave sensor 62, are first taken into the gaming microcomputer 111 and processed into other signals or information, and then supplied to the test firing device from the data bus 140 via the buffer 133 and relay board 70 as an error signal indicating, for example, that the gaming machine is in a state where it cannot be controlled. The relay board 70 is equipped with a port that takes in the signal output from the buffer 133 and supplies it to the test firing device, as well as a connector that relays and transmits the switch detection signal via a signal line that does not pass through a buffer. The port on the relay board 70 is also supplied with the chip enable signal CE (not shown) output from the gaming microcomputer 111, and the signal from the port selected and controlled by this chip enable signal CE is supplied to the test firing device.

The output unit 130 is also provided with a first output port 134a that is connected to the data bus 140 and outputs opening/closing data for the large prize opening 1 solenoid 38b that opens and closes the opening/closing member 38c of the special variable prize winning device 38 (large prize opening 1), opening/closing data for the large prize opening 2 solenoid 95b that opens and closes the opening/closing member 95c of the special variable prize winning device 95 (large prize opening 2), opening/closing data for the normal solenoid 37c that opens and closes the movable member 37b of the normal variable prize winning device 37, and display data for the performance display device 135.

The output unit 130 also has a second output port 134b for outputting display data for the probability setting value display device 136. The output unit 130 also has a third output port 134c for outputting on/off data for the segment line to which the anode terminal of the LED is connected, depending on the content to be displayed on the collective display device 50, and a fourth output port 134d for outputting on/off data for the digit line to which the cathode terminal of the LED of the collective display device 50 is connected.

The output unit 130 also has a fifth output port 134e for outputting information about the gaming machine 10, such as jackpot information, to the external information terminal board 71. The external information terminal board 71 is equipped with a photorelay and can be connected to an external device installed in the gaming facility (such as an information collection terminal or an internal gaming facility management device (hall computer)), so that information about the gaming machine 10 can be supplied to the external device via the photorelay. Some of the information supplied to the external device is output from the fourth output port 134d. A launch permission signal is also output from the fifth output port 134e to the payout control device 200 via the Schmitt buffer 132.

The output unit 130 further includes a first driver (drive circuit) 138a that receives open/close data signals for the special prize slot solenoid 38b, the specific area solenoid 38d, and the normal power solenoid 37c output from the first output port 134a and generates and outputs a solenoid drive signal; a second driver 138b that outputs an on/off drive signal for the segment line on the current supply side of the collective display device 50 output from the third output port 134c; a third driver 138c that outputs an on/off drive signal for the digit line on the current sink side of the collective display device 50 output from the fourth output port 134d; a fourth driver 138d that outputs an external information signal from the fifth output port 134e or the fourth output port 134d to the external information terminal board 71 to be supplied to an external device such as a management device; and a fifth driver 138e that receives a display data signal for the performance display device 135 output from the first output port 134a and generates and outputs a drive signal for the performance display device 135.

The first driver 138a is supplied with DC 32V from the power supply unit 400 as a power supply voltage so that it can drive a solenoid that operates at 32V. Furthermore, the second driver 138b, which drives the segment lines of the collective display device 50, is supplied with DC 12V. The third driver 138c, which drives the digit lines, is used to draw current from the digit lines according to the display data, so the power supply voltage can be either 12V or 5V.

The second driver 138b, which outputs 12V, injects current into the anode terminal of the LED via a segment line, and the third driver 138c, which outputs ground potential, extracts current from the cathode terminal via a segment line. This allows power supply voltage to flow through the LEDs selected sequentially using the dynamic drive method, lighting them. The fourth driver 138d, which outputs an external information signal to the external information terminal board 71, is supplied with DC 12V to provide a 12V level to the external information signal. The buffer 133, first output port 134a, first driver 138a, etc. may be provided on the relay board 70 side rather than the output section 130 of the game control device 100, i.e., the main board. The performance display device 135, or the fifth driver 138e and the performance display device 135, may be provided on an external board (not shown) rather than the output section 130 of the game control device 100, i.e., the main board.

Furthermore, the output unit 130 is provided with a photocoupler 139 for transmitting information such as the identification code and program of each gaming machine to an external inspection device 490. The photocoupler 139 is configured to enable two-way communication so that the gaming microcomputer 111 can send and receive data via serial communication with the inspection device 490. Note that this data transmission and reception is performed using the serial communication terminal of the gaming microcomputer 111, just like a normal general-purpose microprocessor, and therefore no ports such as the first to third input ports 122, 123, and 124 are provided.

Next, the configuration of the performance control device 300 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the performance control device of the first embodiment.
The performance control device 300 is equipped with a main control microcomputer (CPU) 311, which is an amusement chip (IC) similar to the gaming microcomputer 111, a VDP (Video Display Processor) 312 as a graphics processor that performs image processing for displaying images on the display device 41 in accordance with commands and data from the main control microcomputer 311, and a sound source LSI 314 that controls sound output to play various melodies, sound effects, etc. from speakers 19a, 19b.

Connected to the main control microcomputer 311 are PROM 321 (programmable read-only memory) that stores the programs executed by the CPU and various data; RAM 322, which provides a working area; FeRAM (ferroelectric RAM) 323, which can retain its contents even without power during a power outage; and RTC (real-time clock) 338, which serves as a timekeeping means for generating information indicating the current date and time (year, month, day, day of the week, time, etc.). The main control microcomputer 311 also has RAM 311a, which provides a working area. The main control microcomputer 311 is also connected to a WDT (watchdog timer) circuit 324. The main control microcomputer 311 analyzes commands (performance commands) from the gaming microcomputer 111, determines the performance content, and instructs the VDP 312 on the content of the output video. It also performs processes such as instructing the sound source LSI 314 to play sounds, turning on decorative lamps, controlling the operation of motors and solenoids, and managing performance time.

VDP312 is equipped with RAM312a, which provides a working area, and a scaler 312b, which enlarges and reduces images. Also connected to VDP312 is an image ROM325, which stores character images and video data, and an ultra-high-speed VRAM326, which is used to expand and process image data such as characters read from image ROM325.

Although not limited to this, the main control microcomputer 311 and VDP 312 are configured to send and receive data in parallel. Sending and receiving data in parallel allows commands and data to be sent in a shorter time than in serial mode.

The VDP 312 inputs to the main control microcomputer 311 a vertical synchronization signal VSYNC, which synchronizes the image on the display device 41 with the illumination of the decorative lamps on the glass frame 15 and game board 30, and a synchronization signal STS, which indicates the timing of data transmission. In addition, the VDP 312 also inputs to the main control microcomputer 311 interrupt signals INT0-n, which notify the processing status such as the completion of drawing to VRAM, and a wait signal WAIT, which notifies the main control microcomputer 311 that it is waiting to receive commands or data.

The performance control device 300 is equipped with a signal conversion circuit 313 that generates a video signal to be transmitted to the display device 41 using the LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling) method. Video data, a horizontal synchronization signal HSYNC, and a vertical synchronization signal VSYNC are input from the VDP 312 to the signal conversion circuit 313, and the video generated by the VDP 312 is displayed on the display device 41 via the signal conversion circuit 313.

An audio ROM 327 storing audio data is connected to the sound source LSI 314. The main control microcomputer 311 and sound source LSI 314 are connected via an address/data bus 340. An interrupt signal INT is input from the sound source LSI 314 to the main control microcomputer 311. The performance control device 300 is provided with an amplifier circuit 337 consisting of an audio power amplifier and the like that drives the upper speaker 19a provided in the glass frame 15 and the lower speaker 19b provided in the front frame 12, and the audio generated by the sound source LSI 314 is output from the upper speaker 19a and the lower speaker 19b via the amplifier circuit 337.

The presentation control device 300 is also provided with an interface chip (command I/F) 331 that receives commands sent from the game control device 100. The presentation control device 300 receives, via this command I/F 331, decorative special symbol reserve number commands, decorative special symbol commands, variation commands, stop information commands, and other commands sent from the game control device 100 to the presentation control device 300 as presentation control command signals (presentation commands). Since the gaming microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 operates on DC 5V and the main control microcomputer 311 of the presentation control device 300 operates on DC 3.3V, the command I/F 331 is provided with a signal level conversion function.

The effect control device 300 also includes a board decoration LED control circuit 332 that drives and controls a board decoration device 46 equipped with LEDs (light-emitting diodes) and other devices on the game board 30 (including the center case 40); a frame decoration LED control circuit 333 that drives and controls a frame decoration device (e.g., frame decoration device 18) equipped with LEDs (light-emitting diodes) on the glass frame 15; and a board effect movable body control circuit 334 that drives and controls a board effect device 44 equipped with the game board 30 (including the center case 40) (e.g., a movable gadget that enhances the effect in cooperation with the effect display on the display device 41). These control circuits 332-334, which drive and control lamps, motors, solenoids, and the like, are connected to the main control microcomputer 311 via an address/data bus 340. A frame effect device equipped with a drive source such as a motor (e.g., a motor that operates an effect device) may be installed on the glass frame 15, and a frame effect movable body control circuit may be provided to drive and control this frame effect device.

The performance control device 300 is further provided with a switch input circuit 336 that detects the on/off states of the performance button switch 25a of the performance button 25, the setting switch 29a of the option setting unit 29, and the performance prop switch 47 (performance motor switch) that detects the initial position of the motor within the board performance device 44, and inputs the detection signal to the main control microcomputer 311, as well as the state of the volume adjustment switch 335 provided in the performance control device 300 and inputs the detection signal to the main control microcomputer 311. Note that in Figure 4, the switches in the option setting unit 29 are collectively referred to as the setting switch 29a for convenience, but in more detail, the states of the aforementioned switches (cross cursor switch, center switch, auxiliary switch) are connected so that the switch input circuit 336 can individually detect the state of each switch, and detection signals indicating the state of each switch are input to the main control microcomputer 311.

The normal power supply unit 410 of the power supply unit 400 is configured to generate DC 32V to drive motors and solenoids, DC 12V to drive the LCD panel display device 41, motors, and LEDs, DC 5V as the power supply voltage for the command I/F 331, and DC 15V to drive motors, LEDs, and speakers in order to supply the desired level of DC voltage to the performance control device 300 configured as described above and the electronic components controlled by it. Furthermore, if an LSI that operates at a low voltage such as 3.3V or 1.2V is used as the main control microcomputer 311, a DC-DC converter is provided in the performance control device 300 to generate DC 3.3V or DC 1.2V based on DC 5V. The DC-DC converter may also be provided in the normal power supply unit 410.

The reset signal generated by the control signal generator 430 of the power supply unit 400 is supplied to the main control microcomputer 311, resetting the device. It is also output from the main control microcomputer 311 to the VDP 312 (VDPRESET signal), the sound source LSI 314 and amplifier circuit 337 (SNDRETSET signal), and the control circuits 332-334 (IORESET signal) that drive and control lamps, motors, etc., resetting them. A cooling fan 45 that cools various parts of the gaming machine 10 is connected to the presentation control device 300, and is designed to operate when the presentation control device 300 is powered on. The circuit board that makes up the presentation control device 300 corresponds to a sub-control board (also called a sub-board).

Next, the game control performed by these control circuits will be explained.
The CPU 111A of the gaming microcomputer 111 of the gaming control device 100 extracts a random number value for determining whether a normal symbol is a winning symbol based on the input of a game ball detection signal from the gate switch 34a provided on the normal symbol start gate 34, compares it with the determination value stored in ROM 111B, and performs processing to determine whether the normal symbol is a winning symbol or a losing symbol in the normal symbol variable display game. Then, the CPU 111A performs processing to display a normal symbol variable display game in which an identification symbol (identification information) is displayed variably for a predetermined time on the normal symbol pattern display unit 55 of the collective display device 50, and then displays a stop display. If the result of this normal symbol variable display game is a winning symbol, the CPU 111A displays a special result mode corresponding to each of the first to third winning symbols on the normal symbol pattern display unit 55, and activates the normal solenoid 37c, thereby controlling the movable member 37b of the normal symbol variable winning device 37 to open as described above for a predetermined time (e.g., 0.5 seconds or 1.7 seconds). That is, the game control device 100 serves as a conversion control execution means for controlling the conversion of the conversion member (movable member 37b). If the result of the normal symbol variation display game is a loss, the game control device 100 controls the normal symbol display unit 55 to display the loss result state.

In addition, a start winning (start memory) is stored based on the input of a game ball detection signal from the start opening 1 switch 36a provided in the start winning opening 36, and based on this start memory, a random number value for determining a jackpot for the first special symbol variable display game is extracted and compared with the determination value stored in ROM 111B to determine whether the first special symbol variable display game has been won or lost.In addition, a start memory is stored based on the input of a game ball detection signal from the start opening 2 switch 37a provided in the normal variable winning device 37, and based on this start memory, a random number value for determining a jackpot for the second special symbol variable display game is extracted and compared with the determination value stored in ROM 111B to determine whether the second special symbol variable display game has been won or lost.

The CPU 111A of the game control device 100 then outputs a control signal (presentation control command, presentation command) including the determination results of the first special symbol variable display game and the second special symbol variable display game to the presentation control device 300. The CPU 111A then performs processing to display a special symbol variable display game in which the identification symbol (identification information) is displayed variably for a predetermined period of time on the special symbol 1 symbol display unit 53 and the special symbol 2 symbol display unit 54 of the collective display device 50, and then a static display is displayed. In other words, the game control device 100 serves as game control means that controls the progress of the variable display game based on the entry of a game ball flowing down the game area 32 into the start winning area (start winning port 36, normal variable winning device 37).

In addition, the presentation control device 300 performs processing to display a decorative special symbol variable display game corresponding to the special symbol variable display game on the display device 41 based on a control signal from the game control device 100. Furthermore, the presentation control device 300 performs processing to set the presentation state, output sound from speakers 19a and 19b, and control the illumination of various LEDs based on a control signal from the game control device 100. In other words, the presentation control device 300 serves as a presentation control means that controls presentations related to games (variable display games, etc.).

When the result of the special symbol variation display game is a big hit or a small hit, the CPU 111A of the game control device 100 displays the special result mode or small hit result mode on the special symbol 1 pattern display unit 53 or the special symbol 2 pattern display unit 54, and performs processing to generate a special game state or a small hit game state (i.e., processing to execute a special game or a small hit game). In processing to generate a special game state when the result of the first special symbol variation display game or the second special symbol variation display game is a big hit, the CPU 111A, for example, controls the big prize opening solenoid 38b to open the opening/closing member 38c of the special variable prize winning device 38, allowing game balls to flow into the big prize opening. In this special game state, the CPU 111A controls the game by opening the large prize opening until one of the following conditions is met: either a predetermined number of game balls (e.g., nine) enter the large prize opening, or a predetermined amount of time has passed since the opening of the large prize opening. This constitutes one round, and the CPU 111A continues (repeates) this process a predetermined number of times (cyclic gameplay). In addition, when a small win results in the first special symbol variable display game (special symbol 1 variable display game) or the second special symbol variable display game (special symbol 2 variable display game), the CPU 111A controls the large prize opening solenoid 38b to open the opening/closing member 38c of the special variable prize winning device 38, allowing game balls to flow into the large prize opening.

The opening and closing operation pattern (opening and closing operation mode) of the large prize opening during these small win game states is, for example, to maintain the opening and closing member in an open state for 200 ms, performed four times at 1500 ms intervals. In this way, the game control device 100 serves as a large prize opening opening and closing control means that controls the opening and closing of the large prize opening when the stop result mode is a special result mode. Furthermore, if the result of the special symbol variation display game is a loss, the CPU 111A controls the display of the loss result mode on the special symbol 1 pattern display unit 53 or the special symbol 2 pattern display unit 54 of the collective display device 50.

Furthermore, although the game control device 100 of the first embodiment does not perform probability fluctuations in the special symbol fluctuation display game, it may perform probability fluctuations in the symbol fluctuation display game. For example, the game control device 100 is capable of generating a high probability state as a game state after the special game state ends, based on the result state of the special symbol fluctuation display game. This high probability state is a state in which the probability of a winning result in the special symbol fluctuation display game is higher than in the normal probability state. Furthermore, whether the high probability state is reached based on the result state of the first special symbol fluctuation display game or the second special symbol fluctuation display game, both the first special symbol fluctuation display game and the second special symbol fluctuation display game will be in a high probability state.

In addition, the game control device 100 is capable of generating a time-saving state (specific game state, normal game high probability state) as a game state after the special game state ends, based on the outcome of the special game variable display game. In this time-saving state, it is possible to set the probability of a winning result in the normal game variable display game (normal game probability) to a high probability (normal game high probability state) higher than the normal probability (normal game low probability state) of 0. This controls the normal game variable winning device 37 so that its opening time per unit time is longer than when it is in the normal game low probability state. Here, in this embodiment, the normal game variable winning device 37 has a normal game probability set to "0" so that the movable member 37b is not opened in the normal game state.

In addition, in the time-saving mode, the execution time of the normal map variation display game (normal map variation time) is, for example, 500 ms, and the normal map stop time displaying the result of the normal map variation display game is, for example, 600 ms. When the normal map variation display game results in a win and the normal variation winning device 37 is opened, the opening time (normal power opening time) and number of times it opens of the first winning stop pattern can be set to (for example, 500 ms x 1 time), the opening time (normal power opening time) and number of times it opens of the second winning stop pattern (for example, 1700 ms x 2 times), and the opening time (normal power opening time) and number of times it opens of the third winning stop pattern (for example, 1700 ms x 3 times).

The execution time, normal map stop time, normal power release count, and normal power release time of the normal map change display game may be set appropriately to control the normal map change display game and normal variable winning device 37 to a time-saving operation state. For example, in the time-saving state, the execution time of the above-mentioned normal map change display game (normal map change time) can be controlled to a second change display time that is shorter than the first change display time (e.g., 10,000 ms to 1,000 ms). Also, in the time-saving state, the normal map stop time that displays the result of the normal map change display game can be controlled to a second stop time that is shorter than the first stop time (e.g., 1,604 ms to 704 ms). Also, in the time-saving state, when the normal map change display game results in a win and the normal variable winning device 37 is opened, the release time (normal power release time) can be controlled to a second release time that is longer than the first release time in the normal state (low normal map probability state) (e.g., 100 ms to 1,352 ms). Furthermore, in the time-saving state, for one winning result of the normal map variable display game, the number of times the normal variable winning device 37 opens (normal power opening number) can be set to a second opening number (e.g., four times) that is greater than the first opening number (e.g., two times). Also, in the time-saving state, the probability of a winning result in the normal map variable display game (normal map probability) can be set to a high probability (normal map high probability state, e.g., 250/251) that is higher than the normal probability in the normal operating state (normal map low probability state, e.g., 1/251).

In the time-saving state, the time it takes for the normal variable winning device 37 to change to the open state is extended longer than usual by changing one or more of the normal variable time, normal stop time, normal power release count, normal power release time, and normal power probability. It is also possible to set multiple types of time-saving states that change different things. In addition, when a win occurs, either the first release mode or the second release mode may be selected. In this case, the selection probability for the first release mode and the second release mode may be different. Furthermore, the high-probability state and the time-saving state can occur independently, and both can occur simultaneously, or only one can occur. The time-saving state can also be called the normal power support state (during normal power support or electric support).

Next, the configuration of the collective display device will be explained using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of a collective display device according to the first embodiment. The collective display device 50 is equipped with 16 LEDs, including 7-segment LED_d1, 7-segment LED_d2, and LED_d3 to LED_d18. The collective display device 50 displays various statuses depending on the lighting state of 7-segment LED_d1, 7-segment LED_d2, and LED_d3 to LED_d18.

By allocating various status display functions to 7-segment LED_d1, 7-segment LED_d2, and LED_d3 to LED_d18, the collective display device 50 comprises a round display section 51, special chart 1 reserve display section 52, special chart 1 pattern display section 53, special chart 2 pattern display section 54, regular chart pattern display section 55, regular chart reserve display section 56, status display section 57, and special chart 2 reserve display section 58. The round display section 51 displays the number of rounds in the special chart game based on the lighting status of four LEDs, LED_d3 to LED_d6. The special chart 1 reserve display section 52 displays the number of reserves in the special chart 1 game based on the lighting status of two LEDs, LED_d11 and LED_d12. The special chart 1 pattern display section 53 displays the patterns in the special chart 1 game based on the lighting status of the eight LEDs (seven segment LEDs and one dot LED) of the 7-segment LED_d1. The special 2 symbol display unit 54 displays the symbols for the special 2 game through the lighting patterns of the eight LEDs (seven segment LEDs and one dot LED) of the 7-segment LED_d2. The normal symbol display unit 55 displays the symbols for the normal game through the lighting patterns of three LEDs, LED_d8, LED_d10, and LED_d18. The normal symbol hold display unit 56 displays the number of holds for the normal game through the lighting patterns of two LEDs, LED_d15 and LED_d16. The status display unit 57 displays the game status for the special symbol game through the lighting patterns of three LEDs, LED_d7, LED_d9, and LED_d17. The special 2 symbol hold display unit 58 displays the number of holds for the special symbol 2 game through the lighting patterns of two LEDs, LED_d13 and LED_d14.

The control of a gaming machine that performs such games will be explained below. First, the control executed by the gaming microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 will be explained. The control processing by the gaming microcomputer 111 mainly consists of main processing and timer interrupt processing that is performed at a predetermined time interval (for example, every 4 ms).

[Main processing]
First, the main processing of the game control device of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6 to 10. Figure 6 is a diagram (part 1) showing a flowchart of the main processing of the first embodiment. Figure 7 is a diagram (part 2) showing a flowchart of the main processing of the first embodiment. Figure 8 is a diagram (part 3) showing a flowchart of the main processing of the first embodiment. Figure 9 is a diagram (part 4) showing a flowchart of the main processing of the first embodiment. Figure 10 is a diagram (part 5) showing a flowchart of the main processing of the first embodiment.

The main processing is initiated by the control unit (gaming microcomputer 111) when the power is turned on. This main processing first prohibits interrupts (step S1), followed by a stack pointer setting process (step S2) that sets a stack pointer, which is the starting address of the area where register values, etc. are saved when an interrupt occurs. Next, register bank 0 is specified (step S3), and the upper address of the RAM starting address is set in a specified register (for example, register D) (step S4). The address range of RAM 111C is 0000h to 01FFh, with the upper digits being 00h or 01h. In step S4, 00h, which is the starting address of the address range of RAM 111C, is set.

Next, a launch stop signal is output and the launch permission signal is set to a prohibited state (step S5). The launch permission signal is set to a prohibited state when at least one of the game control device 100 and the payout control device 200 outputs a launch stop signal, and the launch of game balls is prohibited.

Then, the state of input port 1 (first input port 122) is read into a first register (e.g., register B) (step S6), and then the state of input port 3 (third input port 124) is read into a second register (e.g., register C) (step S7).

Here, a specific bit in the first register is masked and the other bits are cleared (step S8). For example, only the second bit of the B register corresponding to the detection signal from the RAM initialization switch 112 is retained, and bits 0, 1, and 3 to 7 are cleared. Then, a specific bit in the second register is masked and the other bits are cleared (step S9). For example, only the fourth bit of the C register corresponding to the detection signal from the setting key switch 127 is retained, and bits 0 to 3 and bits 5 to 7 are cleared.

The information in the first register is integrated into the second register, and the information held in the second register is held as reference information that does not rely on RAM 111C (step S10). For example, the logical sum of registers B and C is stored in register C, and register C is held as a status reference register.

For example, a value of "00000000B" in the status reference register (C register) indicates that bits 0, 1, 3, and 5 to 7 are cleared to "0," the second bit is "0" corresponding to the detection signal from the RAM initialization switch 112 being on, and the fourth bit is "0" corresponding to the detection signal from the setting key switch 127 being on. In other words, a value of "00000000B" in the status reference register indicates a setting change state in which the RAM initialization switch 112 is on (ON) and the setting key switch 127 is on (ON).

The value "00010000B" of the status reference register indicates that bits 0, 1, 3, and 5 to 7 are cleared to "0," the second bit is "0" corresponding to the detection signal from the RAM initialization switch 112 being on, and the fourth bit is "1" corresponding to the detection signal from the setting key switch 127 being off. In other words, the value "00010000B" of the status reference register indicates a RAM initialization state in which the RAM initialization switch 112 is on (ON) and the setting key switch 127 is off (OFF).

The value "00000100B" of the status reference register indicates that bits 0, 1, 3, and 5 to 7 are cleared to "0," the second bit is "1" corresponding to an OFF detection signal from the RAM initialization switch 112, and the fourth bit is "0" corresponding to an ON detection signal from the setting key switch 127. In other words, the value "00000100B" of the status reference register indicates a setting confirmation state in which the RAM initialization switch 112 is OFF and the setting key switch 127 is ON.

The value "00010100B" of the status reference register indicates that bits 0, 1, 3, and 5 to 7 are cleared to "0," the second bit is "1" corresponding to the detection signal from the RAM initialization switch 112 being off, and the fourth bit is "1" corresponding to the detection signal from the setting key switch 127 being off. In other words, the value "00010100B" of the status reference register indicates a power restoration (power outage recovery) state in which the RAM initialization switch 112 is off (OFF) and the setting key switch 127 is off (OFF).

As a result, the detection signal from the RAM initialization switch 112 and the detection signal from the setting key switch 127 are stored in the C register. Note that because the storage location in the B register (second bit) of the detection signal from the RAM initialization switch 112 is different from the storage location in the C register (fourth bit) of the detection signal from the setting key switch 127, the detection signal from the RAM initialization switch 112 and the detection signal from the setting key switch 127 are preserved without being lost even when the logical sum of the B register and the C register is taken.

Then, a process for setting the power-on delay timer is performed (step S11). In this process, a predetermined initial value is set, and a waiting time (e.g., 3 seconds) is set to wait for the programs of the slave control means (such as the payout control device 200 and presentation control device 300) that perform various controls in accordance with instructions from the game control device 100, which constitutes the master control means, to start up normally. This prevents the slave control means from missing a command if the game control device 100 starts up first when the power is turned on and sends a command to the slave control means before the slave control means starts up. In other words, the game control device 100 serves as a waiting means that delays the start of the master control means when the power is turned on, setting a predetermined waiting time to wait for the slave control means to start up.

In addition, the power-on delay timer is timed using a memory area (such as a RAM area or register not subject to validity check) that is not subject to validity check (checksum calculation) for data held in the RAM area. This eliminates the need to exclude part of the RAM area when calculating check data such as the checksum for the RAM area, preventing the control at power-on from becoming complicated.

The second register (C register) is designed to store the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112, and by storing it before the start of the standby time, the operation of the RAM initialization switch 112 can be reliably saved. In other words, if the state of the RAM initialization switch 112 were to be read after the standby time had elapsed, it would be necessary to wait for the standby time to elapse before operating the RAM initialization switch 112, or to continue operating the RAM initialization switch 112 from power-on until the standby time had elapsed. However, by reading the state before the standby time begins, the switch can be detected by operating it immediately after power-on without having to perform such cumbersome operations, preventing a situation in which the initialization operation performed when powering on is not accepted.

The second register (C register) also stores the detection signal of the setting key switch 127, and by storing it before the standby time begins, operation of the setting key switch 127 can be reliably detected. In other words, if the state of the setting key switch 127 were to be read after the standby time had elapsed, it would be necessary to wait for the standby time to elapse before operating the setting key switch 127, or to continue operating the setting key switch 127 from power-on until the standby time had elapsed. However, by reading the state before the standby time begins, such cumbersome operations can be avoided and the key switch can be detected by operating it immediately after power-on, preventing a situation in which setting change or setting confirmation operations performed when powering on are not accepted.

Next, after setting a power-on delay timer (e.g., approximately 3 seconds) (step S11), the system measures the standby time and monitors for power outages during the standby time (steps S12 to S16). First, the system sets the number of times (e.g., 2 times) to read and check the power outage monitoring signal input from the power supply unit 400 via the port and data bus (step S12), and determines whether the power outage monitoring signal is on (step S13).

If the power outage monitoring signal is on (step S13; Y), it is determined whether the on state of the power outage monitoring signal has continued for the number of checks set in step S12 (step S14). If the on state of the power outage monitoring signal has not continued for the number of checks (step S14; N), the process returns to determining whether the power outage monitoring signal is on (step S13). If the on state of the power outage monitoring signal has continued for the number of checks (step S14; Y), that is, if it is determined that a power outage has occurred, the process waits for the power to the gaming machine 10 to be cut off. In this way, by determining that a power outage has occurred when the power outage monitoring signal has been received continuously for a predetermined period of time, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection of a power outage due to noise, etc., and to appropriately deal with any malfunctions that occur when the power is turned on.

In other words, the gaming control device 100 acts as a power outage monitoring means that monitors for the occurrence of a power outage during a specified standby time. This makes it possible to respond to a power outage that occurs during the period when the startup of the gaming control device 100, which serves as the main control means, is delayed, and allows for appropriate handling of malfunctions when the power is turned on. Furthermore, since access to RAM 111C is not permitted until the end of the standby time and the contents stored at the time of the previous power outage remain retained, there is no need to perform backup processing or the like when a power outage occurs here. Therefore, even if a power outage occurs during the standby time, there is no need to back up RAM 111C, reducing the burden on control.

On the other hand, if the power outage monitoring signal is not on (step S13; N), i.e., if a power outage has not occurred, the power-on delay timer is updated by "-1" (step S15), and it is determined whether the timer value is "0" (step S16). If the timer value is not 0 (step S16; N), i.e., if the standby time has not expired, the process returns to the process of setting the number of times the power outage monitoring signal is checked (step S12). Also, if the timer value is "0" (step S16; Y), i.e., if the standby time has expired, access to readable and writable RWM (Read Write Memory) such as RAM 111C and EEPROM is permitted (step S17), and off data is output to all output ports (setting them to a state where there is no output) (step S18).

Next, the serial port (a port pre-installed in the gaming microcomputer 111 and used for communication with the presentation control device 300 and payout control device 200) is set up (step S19).

In step S20, the CTC circuit within the gaming microcomputer 111 (clock generator) is activated to generate a timer interrupt signal and a random number update trigger signal (CTC).

In step S21, the RAM abnormality flag is set. Note that the RAM abnormality flag is set temporarily and may be updated later in the process of checking for RAM abnormalities.

In step S22, it is determined whether the value of power outage inspection area 1 in the RWM is normal power outage inspection area check data 1 (for example, 5Ah). If the value of power outage inspection area 1 is normal (step S22; Y), it is determined whether the value of power outage inspection area 2 in the RWM is normal power outage inspection area check data 2 (for example, A5h) (step S23). If the value of power outage inspection area 2 is normal (step S23; Y), a checksum calculation process (step S24) is performed to calculate the checksum of a specified area in the RWM.

In the checksum calculation process, the checksum may be calculated by adding together the data in the game control work area and the data in the status display work area, or the checksum may be calculated separately from the data in the game control work area and the data in the status display work area, or the checksum may be calculated from only the data in the game control work area. The game control work area is a working area within the memory area of the RWM that is used for game control. The status display work area is a working area within the memory area of the RWM that is used for status display.

Next, it is determined whether the checksum calculated in step S24 matches the checksum at the time of power-off (step S25). If it is determined that the checksums match (are normal) (step S25; Y), the RAM abnormality flag temporarily set in step S21 is cleared (step S26).

If it is determined that the checksums do not match (are abnormal) (step S25; N), the process skips step S26 and proceeds to step S27, thereby finalizing the RAM abnormality flag that was provisionally set in step S21. Even if it is determined that the check data in the power outage inspection area is not normal (step S22; N or step S23; N), the process skips step S26 and proceeds to step S27, thereby finalizing the RAM abnormality flag that was provisionally set in step S21.

In step S27, the second register (C register) is referenced to determine whether the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is on and the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 is on. If the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is on and the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 is on, proceed to step S33; if the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is on and the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 is not on, proceed to step S28.

In addition, because the game control device 100 stores the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 and the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 in the second register (C register), it can simultaneously determine the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 and the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112.In addition, because the game control device 100 stores the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 and the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 in the second register (C register), it can determine the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 and the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 before determining the validity of the RAM.

In step S28, the control unit determines whether the RAM abnormality flag is on. If the RAM abnormality flag is on (i.e., the RAM abnormality flag is set), the control unit proceeds to step S30; if the RAM abnormality flag is not on (i.e., the RAM abnormality flag is cleared), the control unit proceeds to step S29.

In step S29, the control unit determines whether the setting change mode flag is on. If the setting change mode flag is on, the control unit proceeds to step S48; if the setting change mode flag is not on, the control unit proceeds to step S30.

Steps S30 to S32 are executed when a RAM abnormality occurs, or when the system is restarted without clearing the RAM due to a power outage during setup. In step S30, the control unit sends a main abnormality error notification command to the performance control device 300. This causes the performance control device 300 to perform performance control corresponding to the main abnormality error notification command. For example, upon receiving the main abnormality error notification command, the performance control device 300 may display a message on the display device 41 informing the system of a restart that will involve clearing the RAM, or output a sound from the speakers 19a and 19b. Furthermore, upon receiving the main abnormality error notification command, the performance control device 300 may notify the system of a main abnormality error via the frame decoration device 18, board decoration device 46, and board performance device 44.

In step S31, the control unit outputs the 7-segment display data at the time of game stop to the performance display device 135. At this time, the control unit can display a status corresponding to a main abnormality error on the performance display device 135. The control unit also outputs the 7-segment display data at the time of game stop to the probability setting value display device 136. At this time, the control unit can display numbers or characters that are not in the probability setting value on the probability setting value display device 136. The control unit may also output the 7-segment display data including the LED display data at the time of game stop to the collective display device 50. At this time, the control unit may turn all of the collective display devices 50 off or on.

In step S32, the control unit outputs on data for the security signal from the external information terminal board 71. At this time, the control unit turns off the output data for other signals output from the external information terminal board 71. The control unit repeatedly executes steps S31 and S32 while waiting for the power to be cut off. That is, the gaming machine 10 outputs a security signal from the external information terminal board 71 while waiting for the power to be cut off. Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 does not output any signals other than the security signal from the external information terminal board 71 while waiting for the power to be cut off.

The control unit does not prohibit RAM access during the repeated execution of steps S31 and S32 until power is cut off. This allows the gaming machine 10 to store a return address in RAM when an NMI (Non-Maskable Interrupt) occurs, reducing the risk of program runaway. While the control unit does not protect the contents of RAM by prohibiting RAM access during the repeated execution of steps S31 and S32 until power is cut off, clearing RAM upon restart is a condition for starting game control, limiting the risk of RAM contents not being protected. In other words, the gaming machine 10 achieves the effect of reducing the risk of program runaway while limiting the risk of RAM contents not being protected. Furthermore, by not prohibiting RAM access during the repeated execution of steps S31 and S32 until power is cut off, the control unit allows subroutines to be called in steps S31 and S32, improving program efficiency.

Steps S33 to S36 are processes related to preparing to change settings, and are executed when, in step S27, the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is on and the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 is on.

In step S33, the control unit determines whether the RAM abnormality flag is on. If the RAM abnormality flag is on, the control unit proceeds to step S34; if the RAM abnormality flag is not on, the control unit proceeds to step S35.

In step S34, the control unit clears the set value because the RAM abnormality flag is on. Note that clearing the set value may be done by setting an invalid value as the set value, or by setting the most unfavorable value for the player from the perspective of fraud prevention.

In step S35, the control unit performs processing to set a setting change mode flag. The setting change mode flag indicates whether the gaming machine 10 is currently changing settings. The setting change mode flag is set when settings are currently being changed, and is cleared (reset) when settings are not currently being changed.

In step S36, the control unit sends a command indicating that the settings are being changed to the performance control device 300. As a result, the performance control device 300 performs performance control corresponding to the command indicating that the settings are being changed. For example, the performance control device 300 receives the command indicating that the settings are being changed and displays a message on the display device 41, or outputs sound from the speakers 19a and 19b. In addition, the performance control device 300 receives the command indicating that the settings are being changed and notifies the frame decoration device 18, board decoration device 46, and board performance device 44 that the settings are being changed.

Step S37 is a process that is executed after preparation for setting changes (steps S33 to S36) or preparation for setting confirmation (steps S49 and S50). In step S37, the control unit sets the security signal control timer to 128 ms. This causes the gaming machine 10 to output a security signal at least until the security signal control timer times out.

Steps S38 to S40 are processes related to waiting for the completion of setting changes or setting confirmation. By setting the security signal to be output in step S37, the gaming machine 10 makes it possible to externally grasp the execution of processes related to waiting for the completion of setting changes or setting confirmation.

After allowing the interrupt (step S38), the control unit refers to the second register (register C) to determine whether the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is off (step S39). If the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is off, the control unit proceeds to step S55; if the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is not off, the control unit proceeds to step S40.

In step S40, the control unit determines whether a power outage has occurred. The control unit can determine whether a power outage has occurred by continuously detecting the power outage monitoring signal for a predetermined period of time. If a power outage has occurred, the control unit proceeds to step S41; if a power outage has not occurred, the control unit proceeds to step S39. In other words, while allowing interrupts in step S38, the control unit waits for the setting key to be turned off until a power outage occurs.

When the control unit determines that a power outage has occurred, it performs a process of prohibiting interrupts (step S41) and a process of outputting off data to all output ports (step S42).
Then, power outage inspection area check data 1 is saved in power outage inspection area 1 (step S43), and power outage inspection area check data 2 is saved in power outage inspection area 2 (step S44). Furthermore, a checksum calculation process (step S45) is performed to calculate a checksum at the time of power outage of the RWM, and the calculated checksum is saved in the checksum area (step S46). Then, a process (step S47) is performed to prohibit access to the RAM, and the gaming machine waits for the power to be cut off. In this way, by saving the check data in the power outage inspection area and calculating the checksum at the time of power outage, it is possible to determine, when the power is turned back on, whether the information stored in the RWM before the power was cut off has been correctly backed up.

Step S48 is executed if it is determined in step S29 that the setting change mode flag is on. In step S48, the control unit references the second register (register C) to determine whether the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is on. If the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is on, the control unit proceeds to step S49; if the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is not on, the control unit proceeds to step S51.

Steps S49 and S50 are processes related to setting confirmation preparation. In step S49, the control unit sets a setting confirmation mode flag. The setting confirmation mode flag indicates whether the gaming machine 10 is currently confirming settings. The setting confirmation mode flag is set when the gaming machine 10 is currently confirming settings, and is cleared (reset) when the gaming machine 10 is not currently confirming settings. In step S50, the control unit sends a setting confirmation command to the presentation control device 300. This causes the presentation control device 300 to control presentations corresponding to the setting confirmation command. For example, upon receiving the setting confirmation command, the presentation control device 300 may display a message on the display device 41 indicating that setting confirmation is in progress, or output a sound from the speakers 19a and 19b. Furthermore, upon receiving the setting confirmation command, the presentation control device 300 may notify the frame decoration device 18, board decoration device 46, and board presentation device 44 that setting confirmation is in progress. The control unit then proceeds to step S37.

On the other hand, if the control unit determines in step S48 that the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is not on, it executes step S51. In step S51, the control unit references the second register (register C) and determines whether the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 is on. If the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 is on, the control unit proceeds to step S52, and if the detection signal of the RAM initialization switch 112 is not on, the control unit proceeds to step S58. In other words, the gaming machine 10 proceeds to execute processing related to RAM initialization (RAM clearing) when startup detection involves pressing the RAM initialization switch 112, and proceeds to execute processing related to power outage recovery when startup detection does not involve pressing the RAM initialization switch 112.

Next, we will explain the RAM initialization process that takes place from step S52 onwards. In the RAM initialization process, the control unit clears RAM areas other than the set values to 0 (zero clear) (step S52) and saves the initial values used at RAM initialization in the areas to be initialized (step S53). For example, the control unit sets RAM clear start address 2 as the start address for RAM clearing, and clears to zero the data in the area to be cleared (game control work area) within the memory area (area that does not include access-prohibited areas) of the RWM (e.g., RAM 111C).

Note that the setting change mode flag and setting confirmation mode flag are included in the data in the area to be cleared, and are therefore cleared when the data in the area to be cleared is cleared to zero.

In step S54, the control unit sends a RAM initialization command to the performance control device 300. As a result, the performance control device 300 performs performance control corresponding to the RAM initialization command. For example, upon receiving the RAM initialization command, the performance control device 300 displays a message on the display device 41 informing users that the RAM has been initialized, or outputs sound from the speakers 19a and 19b. Furthermore, upon receiving the RAM initialization command, the performance control device 300 notifies users that the RAM has been initialized via the frame decoration device 18, board decoration device 46, and board performance device 44.

Furthermore, after executing the process related to waiting for the setting change to finish or waiting for the setting confirmation to finish (steps S38 to S40), the control unit executes step S55 if it detects that the detection signal of the setting key switch 127 is off. After prohibiting interrupts (step S55), the control unit sends a command to end the notification to the performance control device 300 (step S56).

As a result, the performance control device 300 ends the notification that a setting change is in progress, which began upon receiving a command to change the settings, or the notification that a setting confirmation is in progress, which began upon receiving a command to confirm the settings.

Next, the control unit references the setting change mode flag to determine whether the device is in setting change mode (step S57). If the device is in setting change mode, the control unit proceeds to step S52 and executes processing related to RAM initialization. On the other hand, if the device is not in setting change mode, the control unit proceeds to step S58 and executes processing related to power outage recovery.

In step S58, the control unit executes power outage recovery processing. This power outage recovery processing includes saving the initial value at the time of power outage recovery in the area to be initialized, referencing the special chart status to determine whether the special chart game is in a high probability state, saving ON information in the high probability notification flag area if the special chart game is in a high probability state, and saving ON data for the high probability notification LED in the segment area.

The areas that must be initialized during the power outage recovery process are the power outage inspection area, checksum area, setting change mode flag, setting confirmation mode flag, and areas related to error and fraud monitoring. During the power outage recovery process, the busy signal status area that stores the state of the dispensing busy signal, which is a signal that indicates whether the dispensing control device 200 is in a state where it can accept commands, is also cleared, and the area is set to an indeterminate state indicating that the state of the dispensing busy signal has not been determined. Similarly, the touch switch signal status monitoring area that stores the state of the touch switch signal is also cleared, and the area is set to an indeterminate state indicating that the state of the touch switch signal has not been determined.

Next, the control unit sends a power outage recovery command corresponding to the special game processing number to the presentation control board (presentation control device 300) (step S59), and proceeds to step S60. In step S59, multiple commands are sent, including a machine type designation command, a special game 1 reserved number command, a special game 2 reserved number command, a probability information command, a probability setting value information command, and a screen designation command. Depending on the machine type, in addition to these commands, information on the number of presentations and high probability number of presentations may also be sent. The screen designation command is a command to display a customer waiting demo screen when the control status of the special game 1 variable display game and the special game 2 variable display game is in normal processing (a state that is not in normal processing, not in jackpot (first special game state), or not in small jackpot (second special game state)), and a command to display a recovery screen in all other cases.

In step S60, the control unit performs a process to start and set up the random number generation circuit. It then extracts the values of specified registers (soft random number registers 1 to n) within the random number generation circuit at power-on time, saves them in a specified area of the RWM as the initial values (start values) for the various corresponding initial random numbers (jackpot symbol initial random number, small win symbol initial random number, win initial random number, and win symbol initial random number) (step S61), and then enables an interrupt (step S62).

Next, the control unit performs an initial value random number update process (step S63) to update the values of various initial value random numbers and disrupt the regularity of the random numbers. This initial value random number update process updates (increments) each initial value random number by, for example, "+1." In this way, the gaming machine 10 continues to update the initial value random numbers as long as time permits during the main processing, thereby increasing the randomness of the random numbers.

Here, the control unit temporarily prohibits interrupts (step S64), executes the performance display editing process (step S65), and then permits interrupts after the performance display editing process is executed (step S66). The performance display editing process is a process related to the calculation and display of the base. Because the processing load of the performance display editing process is relatively high, the control unit prohibits interrupts to more quickly derive the processing results. This ensures that the gaming machine 10 derives the processing results of the performance display editing process before the game status is updated by a timer interrupt.

In step S67, the control unit determines whether a power outage has occurred. The control unit can determine whether a power outage has occurred by continuously detecting the power outage monitoring signal for a predetermined period of time. If a power outage has occurred, the control unit proceeds to step S41; if a power outage has not occurred, the control unit proceeds to step S63.

In other words, the control unit repeatedly executes steps S63 to S67 unless a power outage occurs. In particular, if a power outage does not occur, the control unit repeatedly performs the initial value random number update process, performance display editing process, and power outage monitoring signal check (loop process).

Furthermore, by allowing interrupts (step S66) before the initial value random number update process (step S63), if a timer interrupt occurs during the initial value random number update process, the interrupt process will be executed with priority, preventing the timer interrupt from being delayed by the initial value random number update process and putting pressure on the interrupt process.

Similarly, by prohibiting interrupts (step S64) before the performance display editing process (step S65), the performance display editing process is executed with priority over timer interrupts, thereby preventing the performance display editing process from being overwhelmed.

From the above, in a gaming machine equipped with a main control means (gaming control device 100) that controls games in an integrated manner, and secondary control means (payout control device 200, presentation control device 300, etc.) that perform various controls in accordance with instructions from the main control means, the main control means is equipped with a standby means (gaming control device 100) that delays the activation of the main control means when the power is turned on, setting a predetermined standby time for waiting for the activation of the secondary control means, and a power outage monitoring means (gaming control device 100) that monitors for the occurrence of a power outage during the predetermined standby time.

It also includes a power supply unit 400 that supplies power to various devices, and the power supply unit 400 is configured to output a power outage monitoring signal when it detects a power outage. The power outage monitoring means (game control device 100) is configured to determine that a power outage has occurred when it continues to receive the power outage monitoring signal for a predetermined period of time.

The main control means (game control device 100) also includes RAM 111C capable of storing data, an initialization operation unit (RAM initialization switch 112) that can be operated externally, and initialization means (game control device 100) that initializes the data stored in RAM 111C based on the operation of the initialization operation unit, and is configured to read the operation status of the initialization operation unit before the start of the standby time.

In addition, the game control device 100 has the function (first initialization means, second initialization means) to distinguish between initialization processing in the event of a data abnormality (first initialization processing) and initialization processing during an initialization operation (second initialization processing), thereby realizing optimal and efficient initialization processing according to the situation.

The main control means (game control device 100) is equipped with RAM 111C capable of storing data, a setting operation unit (setting value change switch 126, setting key switch 127) that can be operated externally, and setting change means (game control device 100) that changes the setting value stored in RAM 111C based on operation of the setting operation unit, thereby enabling setting changes, and is equipped with a setting display unit (probability setting value display device 136) that allows settings (setting values) to be confirmed. The main control means (game control device 100) is also configured to permit access to RAM 111C after a waiting time has elapsed.

In addition, the main control means (game control device 100) is capable of executing standby processing in the event of a power outage (loop after step S47), which prohibits access to RAM (RAM 111C) (step S47) and waits for all processing to stop, and standby processing in the event of a RAM abnormality (loop of steps S31 and S32), which allows access to RAM (RAM 111C) (step S17) and waits for all processing to stop.

Here, we will explain the standby process in the event of a power outage and the standby process in the event of a RAM abnormality. The standby process in the event of a power outage is executed after access to RAM is prohibited in step S47 of the main process, and is a loop process that waits for the execution of all processes to stop. Furthermore, because the standby process in the event of a power outage is executed after interrupts are prohibited in step S41 of the main process, interrupts other than NMI interrupts (timer interrupts) are prohibited. Note that NMI interrupts cannot be prohibited during the standby process in the event of a power outage, so an NMI interrupt may occur. However, because the standby process in the event of a power outage is executed when a power outage occurs, there is little risk of an NMI interrupt occurring during the execution of this process. Furthermore, the standby process in the event of a power outage does not involve an abnormality notification. This allows the gaming machine 10 to allocate power used up until the power is shut off to the power outage process. Note that by prohibiting access to RAM during the standby process in the event of a power outage, the gaming machine 10 reduces the risk of RAM storage contents being altered due to unstable voltage.

The RAM abnormality standby process is executed after access to RAM (RWM) is permitted in step S17 of the main process, and is a loop process that waits for all processes to stop executing. Furthermore, because the RAM abnormality standby process is executed after interrupts are prohibited in step S1 of the main process, interrupts other than NMI interrupts (timer interrupts) are prohibited. Note that the power outage standby process cannot prohibit NMI interrupts, so an NMI interrupt may occur. Because the RAM abnormality standby process waits for a power outage, there is a greater risk of an NMI interrupt occurring during execution of this process than with the power outage standby process. However, because RAM access is permitted even if an NMI interrupt occurs, the return address can be stored in RAM, reducing the risk of a program crash due to an NMI interrupt. Furthermore, since the gaming machine 10 sends a main abnormality error notification command to the presentation control device 300 in step S30, the presentation control device 300 can issue an abnormality notification in parallel while the RAM abnormality standby process is being executed. This allows the gaming machine 10 to be expected to restart quickly.

[Timer interrupt processing]
Next, the timer interrupt processing of the game control device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the first embodiment. This timer interrupt processing is an interrupt processing that occurs during the above-mentioned main processing from when interrupt permission is issued until interrupt prohibition is issued (from step S38 to step S41, from step S38 to step S55, from step S66 to step S64, and from step S66 to step S41). The timer interrupt processing is processing that is executed by the CPU 111A.

Timer interrupt processing begins when a periodic timer interrupt signal generated by the CTC circuit in the clock generator is input to the CPU 111A. When a timer interrupt occurs in the gaming microcomputer 111, the interrupt is automatically disabled and timer interrupt processing begins.

When the timer interrupt process begins, register bank 1 is first specified (step S71). Switching to register bank 1 is equivalent to performing a register save process, in which the value held in a specified register (for example, a register used in the main process) is moved to the RWM. Next, the upper address of the RAM start address is set in a specified register (for example, the D register) (step S72). Step S72 performs the same process as step S4 in the main process, but the register bank is different.

Next, input processing (step S73) is performed to receive inputs and signals from various sensors and switches, i.e., to read the status of each input port. In step S74, the control unit references the setting change mode flag and setting confirmation mode flag to determine whether the device is in setting change mode or setting confirmation mode. If the device is in setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, the control unit proceeds to step S75, executes setting change/confirmation processing, and ends timer interrupt processing. On the other hand, if the device is not in setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, the control unit proceeds to step S76.

In step S76, the control unit executes output processing to control the drive of actuators such as solenoids (large prize opening solenoid 38b, normal power solenoid 37c) based on the output data set in various processes.

When a launch stop signal is output in step S5 of the main processing, this output process outputs a launch permission signal, and the launch permission signal is set to a state where it can be set to an allowed state. This launch permission signal is output to the launch control device via the payout control device. No signal processing is performed at this time. The launch permission signal is a first signal that indicates the launch permission state from the perspective of the game control device 100, and a second signal (launch permission signal) that indicates the launch permission state from the perspective of the payout control device 200 is also generated within the payout control device 200 and output to the launch control device. In other words, when two launch permission signals are output to the launch control device and both are set to launch permission, the game ball is configured to be able to be launched.

Next, the control unit executes a payout command transmission process (step S77), which outputs commands set in the transmission buffer by various processes to the payout control device 200, a random number update process 1 (step S78), and a random number update process 2 (step S79). Here, random number update process 1 is a process for updating the initial values (start values) of the jackpot symbol random number, small win symbol random number, win random number, and winning symbol random number that are the subject of the initial value random number update process. Furthermore, random number update process 2 is a process for updating the fluctuation pattern random number that determines the fluctuation pattern in the fluctuation display game of special symbol 1 and special symbol 2. Note that random number update process 1, or in addition to random number update process 1, random number update process 2, may also be configured to stop random number updates or change the update cycle during setting changes.

Next, the control unit performs a prize gate switch/status monitoring process (step S80) that monitors whether normal signals are being input from the start gate 1 switch 36a, start gate 2 switch 37a, normal gate switch 34a, prize gate switch 35a, special prize gate switch 38a, and specific area switch 38e, and monitors for errors (such as whether the front frame or glass frame is open). The control unit also performs a start gate switch monitoring process (step S81) that monitors whether the start gate 1 switch 36a and the start gate 2 switch 37a have been entered. During the start gate switch monitoring process, when a game ball enters the start gate 36, which constitutes the first start gate, or the normal variable prize device 37, which constitutes the second start gate, various random numbers (such as a jackpot random number) are extracted, and a game result advance determination is performed to determine the game result based on the entry before the special variable prize display game begins.

Next, the control unit executes special chart 1 game processing (step S82) that performs processing related to the special chart 1 variable display game, special chart 2 game processing (step S83) that performs processing related to the special chart 2 variable display game, followed by type 2 game processing (step S830) that performs processing related to the so-called type 2 game, and then executes regular chart game processing (step S84) that performs processing related to the regular chart variable display game.

Next, a segment LED editing process (step S85) is performed to drive the segment LEDs (such as the LEDs in the special symbol 1 display section 53 of the collective display device 50) provided on the gaming machine 10 that display the special symbol variation display game and various information related to the game to display the desired content, a magnet fraud monitoring process (step S86) is performed to check the detection signal from the magnetic sensor 61 and determine whether there are any abnormalities, and a board radio wave fraud monitoring process (step S87) is performed to check the detection signal from the board radio wave sensor 62 and determine whether there are any abnormalities. Then, an external information editing process (step S88) is performed to set signals to be output to various external devices in the output buffer, and a performance display device control process (step S89) is performed, after which the timer interrupt process ends.

In the first embodiment, the process of restoring the interrupt disabled state (i.e., the process of allowing interrupts) and the process of restoring the register bank designation (i.e., the process of designating register bank 0) are automatically performed upon interrupt return (at the end of timer interrupt processing). Note that, depending on the CPU used, some gaming machines may require commands to execute the process of restoring the interrupt disabled state and the process of restoring the register bank designation.

[Main processing]
Next, the main processing of the performance control device 300 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the main processing in the performance control device of the first embodiment.

The main processing is a processing executed by the control unit (CPU 311) of the performance control device 300 when power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is started.
[Step D11] The control unit prohibits interrupts.

[Step D12] The control unit performs initial settings for the CPU 311.
[Step D13] The control unit performs initial settings for the VDP 312.
[Step D14] The control unit permits the interrupt.

[Step D15] The control unit allows the generation of display data. That is, the control unit allows the display circuit (not shown) within VDP 312 to access the VRAM (not shown) within VDP 312 and generate display data.

[Step D16] The control unit sets a random number seed. This is a process of setting a pseudo-random number generation sequence using, for example, the srand function. Here, the control unit may use a fixed value such as 0 (zero) as the argument to the srand function, or may use a value created based on an ID value, such as the CPU, that is different for each gaming machine.

[Step D17] The control unit saves the initial values at power-on in an area to be initialized in the RWM (e.g., RAM 322) of the performance control device 300 (e.g., a performance flag area (a storage area used as various flags described below in the control processing of the performance control device 300)).

[Step D18] The control unit clears the WDT (watchdog timer).
[Step D19] The control unit executes effect button input processing. The effect button input processing is a process for editing when the effect button 25 (effect button switch 25a) is operated while it is enabled. Note that, because the effect button does not turn on and off quickly, the control unit may perform processing for detecting effect button input within the effect button input processing, or may perform the processing within a short-period timer interrupt (not shown).

[Step D20] The control unit executes hall/player setting mode processing. Hall/player setting mode processing is processing for setting the changeable range of the brightness and volume of the LED and display device 41, and accepting player operations such as changing the brightness and volume of the LED and display device 41.

[Step D21] The control unit executes a random number update process. The random number update process is a process that updates a pseudo-random number at least once per control cycle of the main processing, using, for example, a rand function. The rand function generates a random number based on a specified generation sequence each time a recalculation is performed, so the control unit can obtain a random number simply by executing the rand function. Note that a counter that increments by "1", like the main board (game control device 100), may also be used as the random number.

[Step D22] The control unit executes a received command check process. The received command check process analyzes commands received from the game control device 100 in units of a predetermined number.

[Step D23] The control unit executes the effect display editing process. The effect display editing process is a process for setting various commands and their parameters to instruct the VDP 312 on the content to be displayed on the display device 41. For example, the control unit sets the commands in a table format during the effect display editing process.

[Step D24] The control unit executes drawing command preparation completion setting. Drawing command preparation completion setting is a process that sets that preparation of all commands for VDP 312 set in the performance display editing process has been completed.

[Step D25] The control unit determines whether it is frame switching time. If it is frame switching time, proceed to step D26. If it is not frame switching time, wait for frame switching time. Here, frame switching time occurs at time intervals equivalent to a processing period (e.g., 1/30 second ≒ 33.333 ms) created based on the period of the V blank interrupt (also called the V sync interrupt) (e.g., 1/60 second). Note that the V blank interrupt occurs each time the VDP 312 completes one scan of the entire screen for drawing. As mentioned above, the generation period of this V blank interrupt is, for example, 1/60 second. In this embodiment, frame switching occurs when the same drawing is repeated twice and a V blank interrupt occurs twice. The frame switching period is twice the period of the V blank interrupt (e.g., 1/60 second) (e.g., 1/30 second ≒ 33.33 ms). However, this is not limiting and the frame switching timing can be changed as desired. For example, frame switching (image updating) may be performed at intervals of 1/30 seconds or more, or at intervals of less than 1/30 seconds.

Due to the frame switching timing determination process, subsequent processing (steps D26 to D30, and subsequent steps D18 to D24) is executed at this frame switching timing for each processing cycle described above. Time management, which must be synchronized with the presentation content, is performed in frame units (i.e., in processing cycle units described above). If the processing cycle described above is 1/30 seconds, for example, three frames will take 100 ms. This is similar to the main board (game control device) managing time values in 4 ms units, which is the timer interrupt cycle.

[Step D26] The control unit instructs the VDP 312 to draw on the screen according to the command set in step D23. For example, the control unit sequentially sends commands set in a table to instruct the VDP 312 to draw on the screen.

[Step D27] The control unit executes sound control processing. The sound control processing is processing related to volume control of the sound from the speakers (upper speaker 19a, lower speaker 19b).

[Step D28] The control unit executes a decoration control process, which controls various LEDs of the board decoration device 46, the frame decoration device 18, etc.
[Step D29] The control unit executes a movable body control process to control movable bodies (for example, the board effect device 44) including various motors and solenoids (SOLs).

[Step D30] The control unit executes firing information control processing. The firing information control processing sets firing-related information based on the firing status flag and corrects the presentation mode according to the special symbol rotation status (the number of times the special symbol changes per game for a specified amount (i.e., a specified number of loaned balls)).

[Step D31] The control unit executes an information disclosure process, which is a process for disclosing performance information relating to gaming performance to the player.
After executing step D31, the control unit returns to step D18, and thereafter repeatedly executes the processes of steps D18 to D31. That is, steps D18 to D31 constitute a loop process (sometimes referred to as a main loop process) that is repeatedly executed at the above-mentioned processing cycle after the performance control device 300 is started.

The control unit executes steps D27 to D29 within the main loop to match the screen presentation, but the signals and data generated or set during this control process (particularly signals for driving and controlling various LEDs and motors) are actually output to ports within a short-period timer interrupt (not shown). However, when using an IC specialized for controlling various devices, it may only issue instructions via serial communication, etc., and not output signals, etc., via a timer interrupt.

Next, the gameplay of the gaming machine 10 will be explained using Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the state transition of the game state in the first embodiment. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of the game performance in the first embodiment.

The game states of the game on the gaming machine 10 include the game states during the win derivation process and the game states for each win. The game states during the win derivation process include game state A, game state B, game state C, and game state D. The game states for each win include special symbol 1 win, special symbol 2 win, and V win.

The gaming machine 10 is capable of generating a jackpot gaming state (special gaming state: special gaming state 1 hit, special gaming state 2 hit) as a result of two special symbol change display games consisting of the special symbol 1 game and the special symbol 2 game, and is also capable of generating a jackpot gaming state (special gaming state: V hit) by winning in a specific area 96 from a small hit as a result of the special symbol change display game. In other words, the gaming machine 10 falls into the category of gaming machines with type 1 + type 2 gameplay.

The gaming machine 10 also executes the special game 1 and the special game 2 without any probability fluctuations. The gaming machine 10 can transition to three time-saving game states: time-saving a (game state D), time-saving b (game state B), and time-saving c (game state C).

Time reduction a (game state D) is triggered by a hit and continues until the end condition is met. Time reduction b (game state B) is triggered by playing a predetermined number of games in a low-probability state and continues until the end condition is met. Time reduction c (game state C) is triggered by deriving a predetermined result (deriving a predetermined pattern) in a low-probability state and continues until the end condition is met.

Game state A is a game state without time reduction, and is generally referred to as the normal game state. Game state A is a game state that is not advantageous (unfavorable) to the player. For this reason, in many cases, players start playing in game state A and finish playing in game state A. Game state B is a game state with time reduction b. Game state B is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than game state A. Game state C is a game state with time reduction c. Game state C is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than game state A. Game state D is a game state with time reduction a. Game state D is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than game state A.

In Special Chart 1 game, the probability of a jackpot is 1/199, the probability of a small jackpot is 0, the probability of a time reduction occurring is 0, the condition for b time reduction occurring is 500 games played since the previous jackpot, and the probability of c time reduction occurring is 1/199. The b time reduction occurring in Special Chart 1 game lasts for 1000 games, and the c time reduction occurring in Special Chart 1 game lasts for 6 games.

In Special Chart 2 games, the probability of a big hit is 1/199, the probability of a small hit is 1/7, the probability of A time reduction occurring is 1, and due to the restriction that start memory can only occur during time reduction, there are no B or C time reduction settings. The A time reduction that occurs in Special Chart 2 games lasts for 100 games.

In Type 2 games, a win (jackpot) can occur when a symbol combination that results in a small win is deduced as a result of the variable display in Special Chart 2 games and enters a specific area 96. Therefore, due to the constraint that start memory can only occur during time reduction, there are no settings for time reduction b or time reduction c. Furthermore, the probability of time reduction a occurring after a jackpot occurring in Type 2 games is 1, and time reduction a occurring in Type 2 games lasts for 16 games.

Each gaming state has the opportunity to transition to another gaming state with each game (special symbol game), but will remain in that gaming state if the specified transition condition is not met. Since the gaming machine 10 has no opportunity to win the normal variable prize-winning device 37 except during time-saving and cannot generate a start memory for the special symbol 2 game, it guides left-handed hits in gaming state A without time-saving, which can provide an opportunity to win the start prize-winning slot 36 and generate a start memory for the special symbol 1 game. Since the gaming machine 10 has an opportunity to win the normal variable prize-winning device 37 during time-saving and can generate a start memory for the special symbol 2 game, it guides right-handed hits in gaming states B, C, and D with time-saving. In other words, gaming state A is, in principle, a gaming state in which game progress is primarily played through the special symbol 1 game by left-handed hits, while gaming states B, C, and D are, in principle, gaming states in which game progress is primarily played through the special symbol 2 game by right-handed hits.

Game state A allows for big wins but not small wins, so the winning opportunity is the derivation of a symbol combination that results in a special symbol 1 win (big win) as a result of the variable display game. A special symbol 1 win does not result in a time reduction, so the game state after the special symbol 1 win ends becomes game state A. Game state A transitions to game state B when the variable display game is executed 500 times, or the so-called ceiling is reached, and a time reduction b occurs. Game state A also transitions to game state C when the variable display game generates a specific result pattern, or the derivation of a time-saving symbol, and a time reduction c occurs.

Since game state B allows for both big and small wins to occur, the winning opportunity is to enter specific area 96 after deriving a symbol combination that results in a special symbol 2 win (big win) as a result of the variable display game, and after deriving a symbol combination that results in a small win as a result of the variable display game. Game state B transitions to game state A if time reduction b ends without generating a special symbol 2 win or a V win. Furthermore, game state B becomes game state D after the end of a special symbol 2 win and a V win because time reduction a occurs.

Since game state C allows for the occurrence of big hits and small hits, the winning opportunity is to enter specific area 96 after deriving a symbol combination that results in a special symbol 2 hit (big hit) as a result of the variable display game, and after deriving a symbol combination that results in a small hit as a result of the variable display game. Game state C transitions to game state A if time reduction c ends without generating a special symbol 2 hit or V hit. Furthermore, game state C becomes game state D after the end of a special symbol 2 hit and a V hit because time reduction a occurs.

Since game state D allows for both big and small wins to occur, the winning opportunity is to enter specific area 96 after deriving a symbol combination that results in a special symbol 2 win (big win) as a result of the variable display game, and after deriving a symbol combination that results in a small win as a result of the variable display game. Game state D transitions to game state A if time reduction a ends without generating a special symbol 2 win or a V win. Furthermore, game state D will return to game state D after the end of a special symbol 2 win and a V win because time reduction a occurs.

As a result, the gaming machine 10 has a first game feature in which a special chart 1 hit occurs during the game progress of the special chart 1 game, and a second game feature in which a time reduction (time reduction b, time reduction c) occurs during the special chart 1 game, transitioning to the game progress of the special chart 2 game, and a V hit with time reduction a occurs during the game progress of the special chart 2 game, looping the game progress of the special chart 2 game. Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 can also generate a special chart 2 hit with time reduction a during the game progress of the special chart 2 game, and creates interest by setting a difference in the number of times time reduction a continues between the special chart 2 hit and the V hit.

The gaming machine 10 may be configured to execute the special chart 2 game in priority over the special chart 1 game when the start memory for both the special chart 1 game and the special chart 2 game is "1" or greater, or may be configured to execute the special chart 1 game in the order in which the start memory occurred, regardless of whether it is the special chart 1 game or the special chart 2 game, when the start memory for both the special chart 1 game and the special chart 2 game is "1" or greater.

Next, the game display screen when b time reduction occurs will be explained using Figures 15 to 19. Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example (part 1) of the game display screen of the first embodiment. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example (part 2) of the game display screen of the first embodiment. Figure 17 is a diagram showing an example (part 3) of the game display screen of the first embodiment. Figure 18 is a diagram showing an example (part 4) of the game display screen of the first embodiment. Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example (part 5) of the game display screen of the first embodiment.

Display screen 500 shown in Figure 15 (1) is a display screen while the symbols are stopped, and displays the symbols that are the result of the variable display game for a predetermined period after the variable display in special symbol 1 game (variable display game) ends (before the variable display game in which the time-saving condition b is met begins). Display screen 500 is an example of a display screen in game state A (normal game state). Display screen 500 displays a group of large symbols 501 that are decorative symbols, a group of small symbols 502 that are also decorative symbols, a special symbol 1 reserved number display 503, a special symbol 2 reserved number display 504, a reserved display 505, and a reserved consumption display 506.

The special symbol in the special symbol 1 game or special symbol 2 game is the symbol (LED lighting pattern) displayed on the special symbol 1 symbol display section 53 or special symbol 2 symbol display section 54 of the collective display device 50, and the large symbol group 501 and small symbol group 502 are decorative symbols corresponding to the special symbol. Although not shown, the gaming machine 10 also has a fourth symbol as a symbol in the special symbol 1 game or special symbol 2 game, which indicates the variable state and the stopped state, for example by flashing and lighting an LED, without indicating the result pattern of the variable display game.

The large symbol group 501 is responsible for the game presentation with the aim of increasing interest. For this reason, the large symbol group 501 is displayed large in a variable display area set approximately in the center of the display device 41. The large symbol group 501 includes a left symbol, a middle symbol, and a right symbol.

On display screen 500, the left symbol indicates that the symbol has stopped at "3," the middle symbol indicates that the symbol has stopped at "5," and the right symbol indicates that the symbol has stopped at "7." In other words, on display screen 500, large symbol group 501 indicates that the special symbol variation display game is in a stopped state (symbols are stopped).

The large symbol group 501 and the small symbol group 502 are displayed stopped at the same timing (a timing determined in advance when the fluctuation starts, or a timing determined based on the reception of a command instructing the fluctuation to end).

The small symbol group 502 is responsible for notifying the player of the variable display status, with the aim of making it easier for the player to understand the game status. Therefore, the small symbol group 502 is displayed small on the periphery of the display device 41 to ensure visibility without interfering with the display effects of the large symbol group 501. The small symbol group 502 includes a left symbol, a middle symbol, and a right symbol. On the display screen 500, the left symbol, middle symbol, and right symbol that make up the small symbol group 502 all indicate that the corresponding special symbol variable display game is in a stopped state.

Furthermore, the small symbol group 502 fluctuates (constant speed fluctuation display) at a predetermined speed (constant speed fluctuation display) from the start of fluctuation, and is displayed as stopped without a temporary stop when the fluctuation ends. The small symbol group 502 may be displayed with or without a predetermined acceleration fluctuation period from the stopped display until it reaches the predetermined speed. The small symbol group 502 may be displayed with or without a predetermined deceleration fluctuation period from the constant speed fluctuation display until it is displayed as stopped, or without a predetermined deceleration fluctuation period.

In general, the large symbol group 501 is displayed larger than the small symbol group 502, has a high degree of freedom in its display position, and its display mode can be changed greatly. Conversely, the small symbol group 502 is displayed smaller than the large symbol group 501, and has a low degree of freedom in its display position (for example, its position is fixed).

Special chart 1 reserve number display 503 displays the number of reserved memories for the special chart 1 game. On the display screen 500, the special chart 1 reserve number display 503 indicates that the number of reserved memories for the special chart 1 game is "0". The special chart 2 reserve number display 504 displays the number of reserved memories for the special chart 2 game. On the display screen 500, the special chart 2 reserve number display 504 indicates that the number of reserved memories for the special chart 2 game is "0".

The hold display (waiting hold display) 505 displays either the hold number for Special Chart 1 Game or the hold number for Special Chart 2 Game using the hold icon 507 depending on the game status. The display screen 500 indicates the hold number for Special Chart 1 Game by displaying the hold icon. The hold consumption display (consumption hold display) 506 is a display screen for the game status (game status A) that indicates that the special chart game is changing by displaying the hold consumption icon. The display screen 500 indicates that the hold memory number for Special Chart 1 Game or the hold memory number for Special Chart 2 Game is "0" using the hold display 505. The display screen 500 also indicates that Special Chart 1 Game or Special Chart 2 Game is not changing using the hold consumption display 506, particularly by the absence of a hold consumption icon on the consumption hold base.

Display screen 510 shown in Figure 15 (2) is the display screen after the start of the variable display game when the b time-saving condition is met (for example, 500 games have been played since the previous jackpot). Display screen 510 is the screen after display screen 500, and shows the screen during variable display (three symbols are changing). Display screen 510 is an example of a display screen in game state A (normal game state). On display screen 510, the left, middle, and right symbols of large symbol group 501 are changing, indicating that the special symbol variable display game is changing. Also, on display screen 510, the left, middle, and right symbols of small symbol group 502 are changing, indicating that the special symbol variable display game is changing.

On the display screen 510, the special chart 1 pending number display 503 indicates that the pending memory number for the special chart 1 game is "0", the special chart 2 pending number display 504 indicates that the pending memory number for the special chart 2 game is "0", and the pending display 505 is a game status that indicates the pending number for the special chart 1 game and indicates that the pending memory number for the special chart change display game (special chart 1 game) is "0". Also on the display screen 510, the pending consumption display 506 displays the pending memory display that is being consumed, indicating that the special chart change display game is currently displaying a change.

Note that display screen 500 and display screen 510 may include display elements such as background display, character display, and text display (not shown), and the display elements may also be capable of producing a dynamic display using animations, etc.

The pending consumption display 506 also shows how a pending consumption icon 508 corresponding to the pending consumption of the special game is displayed. The pending consumption icon 508 is, for example, spherical, and the pending consumption icon 508 can also be animated (for example, by deforming, changing color, moving up and down, etc.) to create a dynamic display.

The pending display 505, depending on its display mode (pending memory display displayed on the pending display 505), can clearly indicate the number of pending memories for the special chart variable display game and can also notify the expected game outcome for each pending memory. Note that the pending number or number of pending memories refers to the number of start memories for which the special chart variable display game has not yet been executed.

The pending consumption display 506, depending on its display mode, can indicate whether the special chart variable display game is in a variable display state and can also notify the degree of expectation for the game outcome. On the display screen 500, the pending consumption display 506 leaves the frame blank, indicating that the special chart variable display game is in a stopped state. After this, the gaming machine 10 starts displaying the variable when the number of pending memories for the special chart 1 game or the special chart 2 game reaches 1 or more.

Display screen 512 shown in Figure 15 (3) is the display screen after display screen 510 when the symbols are stopped. Display screen 512 displays the symbols that are the result of the variable display game for a predetermined period of time after the variable display in special symbol 1 game has ended (the variable display game has ended when the b time-saving condition is met). Display screen 512 also sets the number of reserved memories to "0" in both special symbol 1 game and special symbol 2 game. Display screen 512 is an example of a display screen before transitioning from game state A (normal game state) to game state B (b time-saving). The gaming machine 10 transitions from game state A (normal game state) to game state B (b time-saving) after the predetermined symbol stop time has elapsed.

On the display screen 512, the left symbol indicates that the symbol has stopped at "2," the middle symbol indicates that the symbol has stopped at "4," and the right symbol indicates that the symbol has stopped at "1." In other words, the display screen 512 indicates that the large symbol group 501 and the small symbol group 502 are stopped (the symbols are stopped) in a special stop symbol combination that indicates the start of the b time-saving mode. The special stop symbol combination that indicates the start of the b time-saving mode may use a dedicated symbol (for example, all of the large symbol group 501 are "b time-saving"). In this case, the small symbol group 502 may also use a dedicated symbol like the large symbol group 501, but it is preferable that the special stop symbol combination corresponds to the dedicated symbol. In this way, the gaming machine 10 can easily recognize the establishment of the b time-saving mode condition through the dedicated symbol, while informing the player that the special symbol game has derived a predetermined result (for example, a loss) through the special stop symbol combination.

Incidentally, since the number of reserved memories is "0" in both the special chart 1 game and the special chart 2 game, the gaming machine 10 displays the screen for a predetermined time and then starts the customer waiting presentation. Then, when the number of reserved memories in the special chart 2 game becomes "1" or more, the gaming machine 10 starts the variable display for the special chart 2 game, and when the number of reserved memories in the special chart 2 game is "0" and the number of reserved memories in the special chart 1 game becomes "1" or more, the gaming machine 10 starts the variable display for the special chart 1 game.

Display screen 514 shown in Figure 16 (1) is the display screen during the customer waiting performance that follows display screen 512. Display screen 514 displays performance display 515, play guide display 516, small symbol group 502, special symbol 1 reserved number display 503, and special symbol 2 reserved number display 504.

The effect display 515 is an effect screen that informs the player that they are waiting for customers. The waiting for customers effect may include repeatedly executing a movie effect or the like. Note that the effect display 515 may also include an indication that the b time-saving period is in progress.

The playing method guide display 516 is a display that guides the player on how to play (right-hand play) during b time-saving (b time-saving mode), and is displayed in the required display format accompanied by a message or pictogram. For example, the playing method guide display 516 displays the message "right-hand play."

Display screen 518 shown in Figure 16 (2) is a display screen on which the number of reserved memories reaches "1" or more in the special chart 2 game, and the display of changes based on the reserved memories begins. Display screen 518 is an example of a display screen after transitioning to game state B (b time reduction). At this time, the gaming machine 10 can be considered to be playing with a right-handed hit, since a reserved memory has occurred in the special chart 2 game.

Display screen 518 is the display screen during the display of the fluctuations of the special chart 2 game. Display screen 518 displays effects 519, play guide display 516, large symbol group 501a, small symbol group 502, special chart 1 reserve number display 503, and special chart 2 reserve number display 504. Display screen 518 hides reserve display 505 and reserve consumption display 506 to enhance the presentation effect of performance display 515, but reserve display 505 and reserve consumption display 506 may be displayed at all times, or only one of them may be displayed, or they may be displayed when a predetermined condition is met. Examples of when a predetermined condition is met include when a pre-reading preview effect is executed or when a selection operation by the player is accepted.

The effect display 519 is, for example, an effect screen that effects the b time-saving mode and informs the player that the b time-saving mode is active. The b time-saving mode effect may execute an independent effect for each variable display, or may execute a movie effect spanning multiple variables.

Large symbol group 501a is a decorative symbol displayed in place of large symbol group 501, and is displayed in a smaller display area than large symbol group 501 so that effect display 515 can exert its effect. Note that large symbol group 501 and large symbol group 501a are both forms of decorative symbol, and large symbol group 501 may be referred to as large decorative symbols, and large symbol group 501a as small decorative symbols. Also, large symbol group 501 may be referred to as decorative symbols displayed during non-movie effects, and large symbol group 501a as decorative symbols during movie effects.

Display screen 512a shown in Figure 17 (1) is another example of a display screen after display screen 510 when the symbols are stopped. Display screen 512a displays the symbols that represent the result of the variable display game for a predetermined period of time after the variable display in special symbol 1 game has ended (the variable display game has ended when the b time-saving condition is met). Display screen 512a also sets the number of reserved memories for special symbol 1 game to "1" and the number of reserved memories for special symbol 2 game to "0." Display screen 512a is an example of a display screen before transitioning from game state A (normal game state) to game state B (b time-saving). The gaming machine 10 transitions from game state A (normal game state) to game state B (b time-saving) after a predetermined symbol stop time has elapsed.

In addition, since the gaming machine 10 sets the number of reserved memories for the special chart 1 game to "1" or more and the number of reserved memories for the special chart 2 game to "0," it displays the screen for a predetermined time and then starts the mode transition presentation. Then, if the number of reserved memories for the special chart 2 game is "1" or more at the end of the change in the special chart 1 game, the gaming machine 10 starts the change display for the special chart 2 game and starts the time-saving mode presentation b.

The hold display 505 shows how hold icons 507 are displayed in a number corresponding to the number of holds for one special game, corresponding to the current game state (for example, normal game state). The hold icons 507 are, for example, spherical in shape, and the hold icons 507 can also be animated (for example, deforming, changing color, moving up and down, etc.) to create a dynamic display.

Note that the reserve display 505 uses the reserve icon 507 to display either the number of reserved balls for Special Game 1 or the number of reserved balls for Special Game 2 depending on the game status, but the reserve icon 507 may also display the total number of reserved balls for Special Game 1 and Special Game 2.

Display screen 520 shown in Figure 17 (2) is the display screen after display screen 512a, and is the display screen on which the variable display based on the reserved memory begins after the reserved memory number becomes "0" in the special chart 2 game and "1" in the special chart 1 game. Display screen 520 is an example of a display screen after transitioning to game state B (b time reduction). At this time, since the reserved memory number is "0" in the special chart 2 game, the gaming machine 10 can be considered to be in a state before the player plays with a right hit.

Display screen 520 is the display screen during the display of the fluctuations of the special game. Display screen 520 displays effects 521, play guide displays 516 and 522, viewing instructions display 523, large symbol group 501a, small symbol group 502, special symbol 1 hold number display 503, and special symbol 2 hold number display 504. Display screen 520 hides hold display 505 and hold consumption display 506 to enhance the effect of effect display 521, but hold display 505 and hold consumption display 506 may be displayed at all times, or only one of them may be displayed, or they may be displayed when a predetermined condition is met. Examples of when a predetermined condition is met include when a preview effect is executed or when a selection operation by the player is accepted.

The effect display 521 is, for example, an effect screen that effects the transition to time-saving mode b, and is an effect screen that informs the player that they are in time-saving mode b. The mode transition effect makes it possible to execute movie effects that span multiple variations, etc.

During the mode transition effect, the large symbol group 501a has the same display mode as the small symbol group 502. In other words, the large symbol group 501a fluctuates at a predetermined constant speed during the variable display. This allows the gaming machine 10 to direct the player's attention to the effect display 521 without the large symbol group 501a interfering with the effect display 521. Furthermore, since the display mode of the large symbol group 501a is not linked to the mode transition effect, the mode transition effect executes a predetermined effect regardless of the display mode of the large symbol group 501a.

The playing method guide display 522 is a display that guides the player on how to play (right-handed play) in time-saving mode b, and is displayed in the required display format accompanied by messages and pictograms. For example, the playing method guide display 522 displays the message "Right-handed play is possible."

While play guide display 516 clearly guides the player on how to play so that they do not incur any unexpected disadvantages, play guide display 522 clearly guides the player on how to play with the aim of improving the presentation effect.

When there is no need to immediately change the playing style, the playing style guide display 522 is displayed in a different manner from the playing style guide display 516. Note that if the playing style guide displays 516 and 522 on the display screen 520 are considered to be a single playing style guide display, the playing style guide display 516 on the display screen 514 and the playing style guide displays 516 and 522 on the display screen 520 can be considered to be displayed in different manners.

Viewing instruction display 523 is a viewing instruction display intended to improve the presentation effect of presentation display 521. Viewing instruction display 523 is a display that explains both or either the conditions for viewing all of presentation display 521 and the conditions for canceling viewing of presentation display 521. For example, when presentation display 521 is a movie presentation spanning multiple variations, if the number of reserved memories in special chart 2 game reaches "1" or more, the variation display for special chart 2 game begins, presentation display 521 is interrupted, and presentation display 515 is executed in place of presentation display 521. In such a case, gaming machine 10 deprives players who wish to view presentation display 521 of the opportunity to view presentation display 521. Furthermore, gaming machine 10 meets the expectations of players who do not wish to view presentation display 521.

To meet these two requirements, viewing instruction display 523 guides the player to wait for a right hit as a condition for viewing all of effect display 521, and guides the player to immediately hit the right as a condition for canceling viewing of effect display 521. For example, viewing instruction display 523 displays the message "Wait for a right hit to see the special effect!" as a guide to waiting for a right hit, and the message "You can cancel the special effect by hitting the right!" as a guide to immediately hit the right.

In addition, when a mode transition effect is performed across two or more special game charts, the gaming machine 10 may end the mode transition effect if the number of reserved memories for the special game chart does not increase, or may perform the mode transition effect instead of the customer waiting effect.

Display screen 512b shown in Figure 18 (1) is the display screen during the symbol stop time after display screen 512a, and the number of reserved memories is "0" in special symbol 1 game and special symbol 2 game. Note that display screen 512b is an example of the display screen before transitioning to game state B (b time reduction).

When the gaming machine 10 transitions to gaming state B (b time reduction) after waiting for the symbol stop time to elapse, it displays the play guide display 516 after transitioning to gaming state B (b time reduction). It is also possible to transition to gaming state B (b time reduction) without waiting for the symbol stop time to elapse, in which case the play guide display 516 may be displayed during the symbol stop time.

Display screen 520a shown in Figure 18 (2) is an example of a display screen after transitioning to game state B (b time reduction), and is the display screen while waiting for customers after display screen 512b, with the number of reserved memories set to "0" in special chart 1 game and special chart 2 game. Display screen 520a displays the following: effect display 521, play guide displays 516, 522, viewing instructions display 523, small symbol group 502, special chart 1 reserved number display 503, and special chart 2 reserved number display 504.

Note that while the display screen 520a is waiting for a customer, it displays a mode transition effect (effect display 521) instead of the customer waiting effect after transitioning to game state B (b time reduction). This type of gaming machine 10 can effectively use the waiting time until the reserved memory number is generated in the special chart 2 game as time for the mode transition effect, contributing to increased interest without making the player aware of the waiting time.

The gaming machine 10 may be configured to start the mode transition effect (effect display 521) a predetermined time after the symbols of the special symbol 1 game have stopped. The predetermined time is not limited to being the symbol stop time. The mode transition effect (effect display 521) may be started without waiting for the symbol stop time, or the mode transition effect (effect display 521) may be started after the symbol stop time has elapsed.

The gaming machine 10 continues the mode transition effect (effect display 521) even if the symbol change for the special 1 game starts again, and can continue the mode transition effect (effect display 521) even if the machine is once again waiting for customers. However, when the symbol change for the special 1 game starts and the mode transition effect (effect display 521) is continued, the large symbol group 501a is displayed as on the display screen 520, making it even clearer that the change display for the special 1 game has started.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 may continue the mode transition effect (effect display 521) while the customer waiting state continues, and not return to the customer waiting effect. This allows the gaming machine 10 to prevent the player from forgetting to transition to game state B (b time reduction) due to the start of the customer waiting effect.

Display screen 520b shown in Figure 18 (3) is the display screen after display screen 520a while customers are waiting, and the number of reserved memories is "0" for special chart 1 game and special chart 2 game. Display screen 520b displays effects display 521, how-to-play guide display 516, small symbol group 502, special chart 1 reserved number display 503, and special chart 2 reserved number display 504. Display screen 520b is the display screen after effect display 521 has been displayed for a predetermined period of time, and how-to-play guide display 522 and viewing explanation display 523 are hidden to simplify the display screen.

The predetermined period is, for example, the period during which a series of mode transition effects (effect display 521) can be viewed, and is the period until the second mode transition effect (effect display 521) can be viewed. Conversely, the gaming machine 10 may display display screen 520b for the predetermined period, and then display display screen 520a after the predetermined period has elapsed. In this way, the gaming machine 10 can conveniently allow players waiting for customers to view the mode transition effects (effect display 521).

Display screen 512c shown in Figure 19 (1) is another example of a display screen after display screen 510 when the symbols are stopped. Display screen 512c displays the symbols representing the result of the variable display game for a predetermined period of time after the variable display in special game 1 ends (the variable display game ends when the b time-saving condition is met). Display screen 512c also sets the number of reserved memories for special game 1 to "2" and the number of reserved memories for special game 2 to "0." For example, the number of reserved memories for special game 1 of "2" is an example of a sufficient number of reserved memories when a mode transition effect is performed across two or more special game 1 games. However, a sufficient number of reserved memories when a mode transition effect is performed across two or more special game 1 games may be "3" or "4." Display screen 512c is also an example of a display screen before transitioning from game state A (normal game state) to game state B (b time-saving). Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 transitions from gaming state A (normal gaming state) to gaming state B (time-saving b) after a predetermined symbol stop time has elapsed.

In addition, since the gaming machine 10 sets the number of reserved memories for the special chart 1 game to "1" or more and the number of reserved memories for the special chart 2 game to "0," it displays the screen for a predetermined time and then starts the mode transition presentation. Then, if the number of reserved memories for the special chart 2 game is "1" or more at the end of the change in the special chart 1 game, the gaming machine 10 starts the change display for the special chart 2 game and starts the time-saving mode presentation b.

Display screen 524 shown in Figure 19 (2) is the display screen after display screen 512c, and is the display screen on which the variable display based on the reserved memory begins after the reserved memory number becomes "0" in the special chart 2 game and "2" in the special chart 1 game. Display screen 520 is an example of a display screen after transitioning to game state B (b time reduction). At this time, since the reserved memory number is "0" in the special chart 2 game, the gaming machine 10 can be considered to be in a state before the player plays with a right hit.

Display screen 524 is the display screen during the display of the changes in the special chart 1 game. Display screen 524 displays a performance display 521, play guide displays 516 and 522, a viewing instruction display 523, a large symbol group 501a, a small symbol group 502, a special chart 1 reserved number display 503, and a special chart 2 reserved number display 504.

The large symbol group 501a on the display screen 524 is a modified example, and is displayed in a different manner from the small symbol group 502 during the mode transition effect. Furthermore, the large symbol group 501a on the display screen 524 does not fluctuate at a predetermined constant speed during the mode transition effect, but continues to display a temporary stop with a special stop symbol combination that indicates the start of time-saving mode b.

Furthermore, the provisional stop display for a special combination of large symbols in the large symbol group 501a continues across multiple variable displays, as shown on display screen 526 in Figure 19 (3). When the gaming machine 10 displays a provisional stop display for a special combination of large symbols in the large symbol group 501a, it may display the symbols as they stop when the small symbol group 502 stops, or it may continue the provisional stop display. In this way, the gaming machine 10 notifies the player of the start of time-saving mode b using the large symbol group 501a in addition to the effect display 521. Furthermore, since the display mode of the large symbol group 501a is not linked to the mode transition effect, the mode transition effect executes a predetermined effect regardless of the display mode of the large symbol group 501a.

This allows the gaming machine 10 to meet the expectations of both players who wish to watch mode transition effects and players who do not. Such a gaming machine 10 can diversify the gameplay while increasing the interest of a wide range of players.

Next, the mode transition effect flow will be explained using Figures 20 and 21. Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of the mode transition effect flow in the first embodiment. Figure 21 is a diagram showing an example of the mode transition effect time and minimum guaranteed time in the first embodiment.

The mode transition effect begins with a play guide start effect, then progresses through a blackout effect, the main effect, the mode title effect, a play guide switch effect, and a play guide loop effect, and when it reaches the play guide loop effect, the play guide loop effect is repeated.

The play instruction start effect is an effect that provides instructions on how to play, with an effect time of t1. For example, when a symbol is stopped, the play instruction start effect displays the play instruction display 516 superimposed on the display screen when the symbol is stopped, and when a customer waiting effect is in progress, the play instruction display 516 is superimposed on the customer waiting effect screen. In this way, the gaming machine 10 first prevents the player from suffering any disadvantages due to incorrect play. Note that the play instruction start effect may be deemed unnecessary by some players, and to accommodate such players, a viewing explanation display 523 may be displayed in addition to the play instruction display 516. Note that the play instruction start effect may display a large symbol group 501a, a small symbol group 502, a special symbol 1 reserved number display 503, and a special symbol 2 reserved number display 504.

The blackout effect is an effect that uses a blackout display to guide players to switch effects, with the effect duration set to t2. For example, the blackout effect involves blacking out the display screen when a symbol is stopped or the customer waiting effect screen, and displaying the play guide display 516. This allows the gaming machine 10 to first prevent players from losing out due to incorrect play. Note that the blackout effect may be deemed unnecessary by some players, and to accommodate such players, a viewing instruction display 523 may be displayed in addition to the play guide display 516. Note that the blackout effect may display a large symbol group 501a, a small symbol group 502, a special symbol 1 reserved number display 503, and a special symbol 2 reserved number display 504.

The main effect is an effect that plays a movie with an effect time of t3. The main effect is an effect that stimulates the player's desire to watch, and may be an effect that plays a predetermined movie, or an effect that plays a movie selected from two or more options. Note that the main effect may be deemed unnecessary by the player, and to accommodate such players, a viewing instruction display 523 may be displayed in addition to the play guide display 516. Note that the main effect may include in its display content a large symbol group 501a, a small symbol group 502, a special symbol 1 hold number display 503, and a special symbol 2 hold number display 504. Note that it is desirable that the main effect be an exclusive effect that is not shared with other effects, or a premium rare effect even if it is shared with other effects, so as to strongly motivate the player to watch.

The mode title announcement effect is an effect that announces the title of the destination mode (for example, b time-saving mode, or more specifically, "Super RUSH"), with an announcement time of t4. Note that the mode title announcement effect may be deemed unnecessary by some players, and to accommodate such players, a viewing instruction display 523 may be displayed in addition to the play guide display 516. Note that the mode title announcement effect may include the large symbol group 501a, the small symbol group 502, the special symbol 1 reserved number display 503, and the special symbol 2 reserved number display 504 in its display content.

The play guide switching effect is an effect that switches the play guide mode with a display time of t5. For example, in addition to or instead of the play guide display 516, the play guide switching effect provides play guide information using animation, such as hitting the game ball into a target area. Note that the play guide switching effect may be deemed unnecessary by some players, and to accommodate such players, a viewing explanation display 523 may be displayed in addition to the play guide display 516. Note that the play guide switching effect may include the large symbol group 501a, the small symbol group 502, the special symbol 1 reserved number display 503, and the special symbol 2 reserved number display 504 in its display content.

The play guidance loop effect is an effect that provides guidance on how to play, with a duration of t6. The play guidance loop effect is different from the play guidance switch effect in that it provides guidance on how to play while displaying the game's image character. The play guidance loop effect is executed repeatedly after the duration of t6 has elapsed, waiting for a switch to the b time-saving mode effect.

In other words, the mode transition effect will be observable as a series of effects over the course of (t1 + t2 + t3 + t4 + t5 + t6) time, and after the passage of (t1 + t2 + t3 + t4 + t5 + t6) time, a loop of playing instructions will be observable repeatedly for t6 time.

When a jackpot is determined in the special chart 1 game, or when the variable display of the special chart 2 game begins, the gaming machine 10 switches from the mode transition effect to the b time-saving mode effect. The b time-saving mode effect begins with a play guide start effect, progresses in order to the main effect, and has a performance flow in which the main effect is repeated when the main effect is reached. Note that the play guide start effect and main effect of the mode transition effect are different from the play guide start effect and main effect of the b time-saving mode effect.

The play instruction start effect of the b time-saving mode effect is an effect that provides instructions on how to play for a specified duration. The play instruction start effect displays the play instruction display 516 superimposed on a specified display screen. This allows the gaming machine 10 to first prevent the player from losing out by making a mistake in how to play. The play instruction start effect may display the large symbol group 501 or large symbol group 501a, the small symbol group 502, the special symbol 1 hold number display 503, and the special symbol 2 hold number display 504. The play instruction start effect of the b time-saving mode effect may be a common effect with the play instruction start effect of the mode transition effect, or they may be non-common, with dedicated effects set for each.

The main effect is an effect in which a movie is played for a predetermined duration. The main effect is an effect that stimulates the player's desire to watch, and may be an effect in which a predetermined movie is played, or an effect in which a movie selected from two or more options is played. The main effect may be interrupted after the variable display effect of the special chart 2 game. The main effect may include the large symbol group 501 or large symbol group 501a, the small symbol group 502, the special chart 1 hold number display 503, and the special chart 2 hold number display 504 in its display content. The main effect of the b time-saving mode effect may be a common effect with the main effect of the mode transition effect, or they may be non-common, with dedicated effects set for each.

Furthermore, the main effects of the b time-saving mode effects and the main effects of the mode transition effects are not limited to visual effects, but may also be decorative effects using light-emitting parts, moving effects using moving parts, sound effects using sound output including music and voice, etc., or a combination of these. Furthermore, the same applies to other effects in the b time-saving mode effects and other effects in the mode transition effects, not just the main effects of the b time-saving mode effects and the main effects of the mode transition effects.

Note that the gaming machine 10 switches from the mode transition presentation to the b time-saving mode presentation when a jackpot is determined in the special chart 1 game or when the variable display in the special chart 2 game begins, but the switching may also be performed after a predetermined delay time has been set.

For example, the minimum guaranteed time shown in Figure 21 (2) guarantees the minimum duration of the mode transition effect. The minimum guaranteed time can be achieved by the delay time set when switching from the mode transition effect to the time-saving mode b effect.

The gaming machine 10 may have a single preset delay time, or may choose one from two or more options. Pattern p1 is the minimum guaranteed time t10 (= 0), which corresponds to no delay time at all. Pattern p2 is the minimum guaranteed time t20 (= t1), which corresponds to a case where a delay time long enough to execute the play guide start effect of the mode transition effect is set. Pattern p3 is the minimum guaranteed time t30 (= t1 + t2 + t3 + t4 + t5), which corresponds to a case where a delay time long enough to execute a series of mode transition effects excluding the play guide loop effect is set. Pattern p4 is the minimum guaranteed time t40 (= t1 + t2 + t3 + t4 + t5 + t6), which corresponds to a case where a delay time long enough to execute a series of mode transition effects is set.

The delay time setting is not limited to a break in the presentation flow during the mode transition presentation, and may be set to any time. By setting a delay time, the gaming machine 10 reduces the risk of the player accidentally canceling the mode transition presentation. Furthermore, by setting a delay time, the gaming machine 10 can provide a minimum level of warning during the mode transition presentation.

When the gaming machine 10 recovers from a power outage that occurred during the mode transition presentation, it starts the b time-saving mode presentation without returning to the mode transition presentation. This allows a player who experienced a power outage during play to be quickly informed of the transition to game state B (b time-saving). Furthermore, when the gaming machine 10 recovers from a power outage and starts the b time-saving mode presentation, it may start with the play instruction start presentation, or it may skip the play instruction start presentation and start with the main presentation.

Next, the presentation mode switching conditions will be explained using Figure 22. Figure 22 is a diagram showing an example of the presentation mode switching conditions in the first embodiment. The gaming machine 10 switches from the mode transition presentation to the time-saving mode b presentation when a jackpot is derived in the special chart 1 game or when the variable display in the special chart 2 game begins. However, as shown in Figure 22 (1), the gaming machine 10 may detect a player operation and switch from the mode transition presentation to the time-saving mode b presentation. For example, the gaming machine 10 may detect operation of the presentation button 25 (push button) as an operation to cancel the mode transition presentation and switch from the mode transition presentation to the time-saving mode b presentation. In this case, the gaming machine 10 may provide guidance on operating the presentation button 25 within the minimum guaranteed time for the mode transition presentation. Such a gaming machine 10 can reduce the risk of the player accidentally canceling the mode transition presentation and clearly reflect the player's intention to cancel the mode transition presentation.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 22 (1), the gaming machine 10 can detect the occurrence of a customer waiting situation and switch from the mode transition presentation to the b time-saving mode presentation instead of switching from the mode transition presentation to the customer waiting presentation. Note that, as shown in FIG. 22 (2), the gaming machine 10 may also detect the occurrence of a customer waiting situation and set the customer waiting presentation without switching from the mode transition presentation to the customer waiting presentation.

Next, a modified example of switching from the mode transition effect to the customer waiting effect will be explained using Figure 23. Figure 23 is a diagram showing an example of switching the effect display area in a modified example of the first embodiment. In addition to the display device 41, the gaming machine 10 is provided with a sub-display device 41a on the gaming board 30 or front frame 12, etc. Figure 23 (1) shows how a mode transition effect 522 is displayed on the display device 41, and a sub-effect 530 is displayed on the sub-display device 41a. Note that the sub-effect 530 may be an effect display that supports the mode transition effect 522, or may be an effect display that provides information about the game history, playing methods, etc.

Here, when the presentation mode is switched from the mode transition presentation to the time-saving mode b presentation, the gaming machine 10 displays the time-saving mode b presentation 519 on the display device 41, as shown in FIG. 23 (2), and displays the mode transition presentation 522 on the sub-display device 41a instead of the sub-presentation 530. As a result, even when the presentation mode is switched from the mode transition presentation to the time-saving mode b presentation, the gaming machine 10 allows the player to view the mode transition presentation 522, although the display position will change.

Furthermore, as shown in Figures 23 (3) and (4), when the gaming machine 10 is displaying a mode transition effect 522 on the display device 41 and the effect mode is switched from the mode transition effect to the time-saving mode effect b, as shown in Figure 23, whether or not a sub-display device 41a is provided, the gaming machine 10 can display the time-saving mode effect b 519 in the main display area of the display device 41 and the mode transition effect 522 in the secondary display area of the display device 41. As a result, even when the effect mode is switched from the mode transition effect to the time-saving mode effect b, the gaming machine 10 allows the player to view the mode transition effect 522, although the display position will change.

The mode transition effect execution period will be explained using Figures 24 to 27. Figure 24 is a diagram showing an example (part 1) of a timing chart for the mode transition effect execution period of the first embodiment. Figure 25 is a diagram showing an example (part 2) of a timing chart for the mode transition effect execution period of the first embodiment. Figure 26 is a diagram showing an example (part 3) of a timing chart for the mode transition effect execution period of the first embodiment. Figure 27 is a diagram showing an example (part 4) of a timing chart for the mode transition effect execution period of the first embodiment.

The timing chart of the mode transition effect execution period shown in Figure 24 shows how the mode transition effect is executed when Special Chart 1 game is executed 500 times, when the ceiling is reached, causing time reduction b and transitioning from game state A to game state B.

For example, the gaming machine 10 transitions from gaming state A to gaming state B after the 500th execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 is in gaming state A until the 500th execution of the special chart 1 game, and the effect type is normal. The gaming machine 10 executes the mode transition effect from the start of the 501st execution of the special chart 1 game, and since there is no trigger to execute the special chart 2 game during the 501st execution of the special chart 1 game, the gaming machine 10 executes the 502nd execution of the special chart 1 game when there is a trigger to execute the 502nd execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 continues to execute the mode transition effect during the 502nd execution of the special chart 1 game. If there is a trigger to execute the special chart 2 game during the 502nd execution of the special chart 1 game, the gaming machine 10 executes the special chart 2 game, which will be the 503rd execution in total with the special chart 1 game, without executing the 503rd execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 will execute the b time-saving mode effect from the start of the special chart 1 game and the special chart 2 game, which will be the 503rd game in total.

Note that the gaming machine 10 switches from the mode transition presentation to the b time-saving mode presentation when an opportunity to play the special chart 2 game is obtained during the execution of the mode transition presentation. However, the switching conditions may also be as follows. For example, instead of an opportunity to play the special chart 2 game, the switching conditions may be when the special chart 2 game is played, when an opportunity to play the normal chart game is obtained (when the normal chart gate is passed), or when the normal chart game is played. For example, by setting the switching condition to when an opportunity to play the normal chart game is obtained (when the normal chart gate is passed), or when the normal chart game is played, the gaming machine 10 can switch to the b time-saving mode presentation more quickly. Furthermore, by setting the switching condition to an opportunity to play the special chart 2 game, the gaming machine 10 can set a predetermined delay time from the execution of the normal chart game, or by setting the switching condition to the execution of the special chart 2 game, an even longer delay time can be set. Such a gaming machine 10 can contribute to the creation of a variety of presentation effects.

This allows the gaming machine 10 to ensure a mode transition effect execution period for as long as there is an opportunity to play the special game 1, and also allows the player to cancel the mode transition effect if they wish to trigger the special game 2 as a result of changing their playing style.

The timing chart of the mode transition effect execution period shown in Figure 25 shows how the mode transition effect is executed when Special Chart 1 game is executed 500 times, i.e., when the ceiling is reached, time reduction b occurs and game state A transitions to game state B, and the mode transition effect is executed when Special Chart 1 game is executed in game state B prior to reaching the ceiling.

For example, the gaming machine 10 transitions from gaming state A to gaming state B upon the 500th execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 is in gaming state A until the 500th execution of the special chart 1 game, but the effect type remains normal until the 499th execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 executes the mode transition effect from the start of the 500th execution of the special chart 1 game, and since there is no trigger to execute the special chart 2 game during the 501st execution of the special chart 1 game, the gaming machine 10 executes the 502nd execution of the special chart 1 game when there is a trigger to execute the 502nd execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 continues to execute the mode transition effect during the 502nd execution of the special chart 1 game. If there is a trigger to execute the special chart 2 game during the 502nd execution of the special chart 1 game, the gaming machine 10 executes the special chart 2 game, which will be the 503rd execution of the special chart 1 game and the special chart 1 game, without executing the 503rd execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 executes the b time-saving mode effect from the start of the special chart 2 game, which is the 503rd game in total including the special chart 1 game. Note that the 500th game of the special chart 1 game is not yet in game state B, so no play method display is performed, but a display may be displayed to warn of a change in play method.

This allows the gaming machine 10 to ensure a sufficient period for the mode transition effect to be performed while there is an opportunity to play the special game 1, and also allows the player to cancel the mode transition effect if they wish to trigger the special game 2 as a result of changing their playing style.

The timing chart of the mode transition effect execution period shown in Figure 26 shows how the mode transition effect is executed when the special chart 1 game is being played in game state B, with the 501st variable display time for the special chart 1 game being set as a time sufficient to execute the mode transition effect in advance.

For example, the gaming machine 10 transitions from gaming state A to gaming state B after the 500th execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 is in gaming state A until the 500th execution of the special chart 1 game, and the presentation type is normal presentation. The gaming machine 10 executes the mode transition presentation from the start of the 501st execution of the special chart 1 game. At this time, the variable display time for the 501st execution of the special chart 1 game is set in advance to time t100 (= t1 + t2 + t3 + t4 + t5 + t6). Note that the variable display time for the 501st execution of the special chart 1 game may be a value other than time t100.

This allows the gaming machine 10 to more fully secure the mode transition effect execution period over the 501st variable display time of the special symbol 1 game, as well as time to trigger the execution of the special symbol 2 game. Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 can cancel the play method guidance loop effect of the mode transition effect at the player's discretion, in order to trigger the execution of the special symbol 2 game as a result of changing the play method.

Note that the 501st variable display time for the special chart 1 game may be set in advance only when the number of times the special chart 1 game has been played can be reliably determined, and may not be set in advance when the number of times the special chart 1 game has been played cannot be reliably determined. For example, the gaming machine 10 sets the 501st variable display time for the special chart 1 game in advance when it is counting the number of times the special chart 1 game has been played since the previous jackpot without including power interruptions, and does not set the 501st variable display time for the special chart 1 game in advance when not a single jackpot has occurred since power was turned on. Note that whether or not to set the 501st variable display time for the special chart 1 game in advance may be determined based on other conditions.

In addition, the gaming machine 10 predetermines the 501st variable display time for the special chart 1 game to ensure a sufficient period for executing the mode transition effect, but it may also predetermine a variable display time that is shorter than normal to quickly consume the start memory of the special chart 1 game. In this case, when both the start memory of the special chart 1 game and the start memory of the special chart 2 game are exhausted and the gaming machine 10 enters a customer waiting state, it may perform a mode transition effect instead of or in addition to performing a customer waiting effect.

In addition, the gaming machine 10 may not only predetermine the 501st variable display time of the special chart 1 game, but may also predetermine the 502nd and subsequent variable display times of the special chart 1 game in preparation for the 502nd and subsequent variable display times of the special chart 1 game.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 may set the 501st variable display time of the special chart 1 game to a time that allows for a sufficient period for the mode transition effect execution, and may set the 502nd and subsequent variable display times of the special chart 1 game to a time that is shorter than usual. Furthermore, when the gaming machine 10 enters a customer waiting state and performs a mode transition effect instead of or in addition to performing a customer waiting effect, the 501st variable display time of the special chart 1 game may not ensure a sufficient period for the mode transition effect execution.

The shorter-than-normal variable display time may be the minimum time that can be set in normal game mode, the minimum time that can be set in time-saving game mode, or any arbitrary time that is set shorter than normal with the aim of using up the starting memory number for Special Chart 1 game.

The timing chart of the mode transition effect execution period shown in Figure 27 shows how the mode transition effect continues to be executed even after the 501st execution of the special chart 1 game, even when the machine enters a waiting state for customers.
For example, the gaming machine 10 transitions from gaming state A to gaming state B after the 500th execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 is in gaming state A until the 500th execution of the special chart 1 game, and the type of effect is normal effect. The gaming machine 10 executes the mode transition effect from the start of the 501st execution of the special chart 1 game, and enters a customer waiting state because neither the special chart 1 game nor the special chart 2 game is triggered to be executed during the 501st execution of the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 continues to execute the mode transition effect even while in the customer waiting state. When the gaming machine 10 is triggered to execute the special chart 2 game while in the customer waiting state, it executes the special chart 2 game, which is the 502nd time in total including the special chart 1 game. The gaming machine 10 executes the b time-saving mode effect from the start of the execution of the special chart 2 game, which is the 502nd time in total including the special chart 1 game.

This allows the gaming machine 10 to ensure a mode transition effect execution period until a trigger for the execution of the Special Chart 2 game occurs, even if there is no trigger for the execution of the Special Chart 1 game, and also allows the player to cancel the mode transition effect at their discretion if they wish to trigger the execution of the Special Chart 2 game as a result of changing their playing style.

The gaming machine 10 of the first embodiment described above (including modified examples) has the following characteristics in one aspect. Conventional gaming machines have tended to lack consistency as gameplay has become more diverse, and the contribution of this diversification to increased interest has been limited. The gaming machine 10 of the first embodiment provides a gaming machine that can increase interest through diverse gameplay.

(1) A gaming machine (for example, gaming machine 10) includes a presentation means (for example, display device 41, speakers 19a, 19b) capable of executing predetermined presentations, and a control means (for example, game state A) that controls a transition from a first game state that primarily enables the execution of a first game (for example, special game 1) to a second game state (for example, game state B) that primarily enables the execution of a second game (for example, special game 2) upon the establishment of a predetermined condition (for example, trigger of time reduction b). The control means includes a technique control device 100, a presentation control device 300, and when the first game is executed in the second gaming state immediately after the transition without receiving an opportunity to execute the second game, the control means enables the presentation means to execute a state transition presentation (for example, a mode transition presentation) across two or more first games, and when an opportunity to execute the second game is received, the state transition presentation being executed by the presentation means can be switched to a mid-state presentation corresponding to the second gaming state (for example, a time-saving mode presentation b) (FIGS. 20, 24 to 27).

(2) When the second game starts to be executed, the control means of (1) switches the state transition effect being executed by the effecting means to an in-state effect corresponding to the second game state (FIGS. 24 to 27).
(3) The gaming machine of (2) includes an auxiliary presentation means (for example, a sub-display device 41a, a display area subordinate to the display device 41), and the state transition presentation is continued by the auxiliary presentation means (Figure 23).

(4) The rendering means of (2) includes a first display device, and the auxiliary rendering means includes a second display device (for example, a sub-display device 41a) different from the first display device (FIG. 23).
(5) The presentation means of (2) includes a first display area of the first display device, and the auxiliary presentation means includes a second display area of the first display device that is different from the first display area (for example, a display area that is subordinate to display device 41) (Figure 23).

(6) After executing the state transition presentation for a predetermined time, the control means of (1) switches the state transition presentation being executed by the presentation means to a state mid-presentation corresponding to the second game state (Figure 21 (2)).
The predetermined time in (7) and (6) is the execution time of a state transition effect prepared in advance (for example, pattern p4) (FIG. 21 (2)).

The predetermined time of (8) and (6) is shorter than the execution time of the state transition effect prepared in advance (for example, patterns p1 to p3) (FIG. 21(2)).
The state transition effect of (9) (6) is an effect that loops at a first time (for example, t40), and the predetermined time is the first time (Figure 21 (2)).

The state transition effect of (10) (6) is a loop effect that loops over a first time period, and the predetermined time period is shorter than the first time period (FIG. 21 (2)).
(11) The state transition effect of (6) is an effect in which a first effect is executed at a first time (for example, t30), and then a second effect different from the first effect is looped at a second time (for example, t6), and the predetermined time is the first time (Figure 21 (2)).

The predetermined time in (12) and (11) is the sum (for example, t40) of the first time (for example, t30) and the second time (for example, t6) (FIG. 21(2)).
The predetermined time in (13) and (11) is greater than the first time and shorter than the sum of the first time and the second time (FIG. 21(2)).

(14) The gaming machine of (1) includes a detection means (for example, a performance button 25 (push button)) capable of detecting a player's operation, and the control means detects the operation using the detection means and switches the state transition performance being performed by the performance means to a state in-progress performance corresponding to the second gaming state (Figure 22).

(15) The control means of (1) enables the state transition effect being executed by the effect means to be switched to a state in-effect corresponding to the second game state when the first game results in a predetermined result (e.g., a jackpot) before the second game is triggered to be executed (Figure 23).

(16) The control means of (1) enables the state transition presentation to be executed by the presentation means from before the transition (FIG. 25).
(17) When the control means of (1) executes the first game in the second gaming state immediately after the transition without receiving an opportunity to execute the second game, the control means determines the variable display time of the first game before receiving an opportunity to execute the first game (Figure 26).

(18) The control means of (17) can switch the state transition effect being executed by the effect means to a state in-effect corresponding to the second game state after executing the state transition effect for a predetermined time, and the variable display time of the game is a predetermined time (Figure 23).

(19) The control means of (17) does not determine the variable display time of the game before the opportunity to execute the game is obtained until the first winning is derived after power-on (FIG. 23).
(20) The state transition presentation of (1) includes a guide display (for example, guide display 516, 522) that guides the player on how to play (FIGS. 17 to 19).

The effects during states (21) and (20) include a guide display 516 for how to play (Figure 16).
(22) The guidance display included in the state transition effect of (21) includes a display form (for example, playing method guidance display 516, 522) different from the guidance display included in the state in-progression effect (Figures 17 to 19).

(23) The control means of (22) is capable of switching the state transition effect being executed by the effecting means to a state in-progress effect corresponding to a second game state after executing the state transition effect for a predetermined time, and the guidance display included in the state transition effect is in a first display mode until the predetermined time has elapsed, and is in a second display mode different from the first display mode after the predetermined time has elapsed.

(24) The control means (1) prioritizes the state transition presentation over the customer waiting presentation (FIG. 18).
(25) The control means (1) enables the second game to be played in priority over the first game (FIG. 13).

(26) The control means (1) enables the first game or the second game to be played in the order in which the trigger for playing the game is received (FIG. 13).
(27) When the control means of (1) executes the first game in the second game state after transition from the first game state without receiving an opportunity to execute the second game, the control means determines the variable display time of the first game before receiving an opportunity to execute the first game (Figure 26).

(28) A gaming machine (e.g., gaming machine 10) includes presentation means (e.g., display device 41, speakers 19a, 19b) capable of executing predetermined presentations, and control means (e.g., gaming control device 100, presentation control device 300) that controls a transition from a first gaming state (e.g., gaming state A) that primarily enables the execution of a first game (e.g., special game 1) to a second gaming state (e.g., gaming state B) that primarily enables the execution of a second game (e.g., special game 2) upon the satisfaction of a predetermined condition (e.g., trigger b of time-saving). When the first game is executed in the second gaming state immediately after the transition without receiving an opportunity to execute the second game, the control means enables the presentation means to execute a state transition presentation (e.g., mode transition presentation) spanning two or more first games, and continues the state transition presentation being executed by the presentation means if the state transition presentation is executed by the presentation means and the game enters a customer waiting state (FIGS. 20, 24 to 27).

(29) A gaming machine (for example, gaming machine 10) includes presentation means capable of executing a predetermined presentation, and control means for controlling a transition from a first gaming state in which a first game can be primarily played to a second gaming state in which a second game can primarily be played upon the satisfaction of a predetermined condition, and when the first game is played in the second gaming state immediately after the transition without receiving an opportunity to play the second game, the control means causes the presentation means to execute a state transition presentation spanning two or more first games, and when the second game is played, causes the presentation means to switch the state transition presentation being executed to a state mid-presentation corresponding to the second gaming state (FIGS. 20, 24 to 27). Note that, like the gaming machine (1), (2) to (27) can also be applied to gaming machines (28) and (29).

The above processing functions can be implemented by a computer. In this case, a program is provided that describes the processing details of the functions that the gaming machine of the embodiment should have. By executing the program on a computer, the above processing functions are implemented on the computer. The program describing the processing details can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Computer-readable recording media include magnetic storage devices, optical disks, magneto-optical recording media, and semiconductor memory. Magnetic storage devices include hard disk drives (HDDs), flexible disks (FDs), and magnetic tapes. Optical disks include DVDs (Digital Versatile Disks), DVD-RAMs, and CDs (Compact Disks) -ROM/RW (Rewritable). Magneto-optical recording media include MOs (Magneto-Optical Disks).

When distributing a program, for example, the program is recorded on a portable recording medium such as a DVD or CD-ROM and sold. The program can also be stored in a storage device on a server computer, and then transferred from the server computer to other computers via a network.

A computer that executes a program stores, for example, a program recorded on a portable recording medium or a program transferred from a server computer in its own storage device. The computer then reads the program from its storage device and executes processing in accordance with the program. Note that the computer can also read the program directly from a portable recording medium and execute processing in accordance with that program. The computer can also execute processing in accordance with the received program each time a program is transferred from a server computer connected via a network.

Furthermore, at least some of the above processing functions can be realized using electronic circuits such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or PLD (Programmable Logic Device).

The gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to the pachinko gaming machine shown in the disclosed embodiment, but can also be applied to all gaming machines that use gaming balls, such as other pachinko gaming machines, arrange ball gaming machines, and mahjong ball gaming machines, as well as slot machines that use medals.

The disclosed embodiments are illustrative in all respects and should not be considered limiting. Furthermore, the various configurations of the above-described embodiments and variations may be combined and applied. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, not the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

10 Gaming machine 30 Gaming board 41 Display device 100 Gaming control device 300 Performance control device

Claims (2)

In a gaming machine in which a player can select either a hitting method of shooting a gaming ball to the left side of a gaming board or a hitting method of shooting a gaming ball to the right side of the gaming board,
a presentation means capable of executing a predetermined presentation for presenting the game;
a control means for controlling a transition from a first gaming state in which a first game and a second game can be executed and in which the first game can be executed mainly by selecting one of the playing methods to a second gaming state in which the second game can be executed mainly by selecting the other of the playing methods when a predetermined condition is met;
Including,
The control means
a reservation storage means for storing the number of rights to play the first game as a first reservation storage number and the number of rights to play the second game as a second reservation storage number;
The production means is
a display means capable of displaying predetermined effect displays in a first display area , a second display area larger than the first display area , and a third display area ;
A numeric display corresponding to the first reserved memory number and a numeric display corresponding to the second reserved memory number can be displayed side by side in the first display area,
In the second gaming state after the transition, when the first game is executed without being triggered to execute the second game , a first guidance display that guides the player on how to play across two or more of the first games can be displayed in the second display area with the numerical displays displayed side by side in the first display area, and when the second game is executed with being triggered to execute the second game, a second guidance display that guides the player that the player is in the second gaming state can be displayed in the third display area.
When the first guidance display is displayed in the second display area across the two or more first games with the number displays displayed side by side in the first display area , the first guidance display is terminated when the first reserved memory number does not increase;
in a state in which the number displays are displayed side by side in the first display area and the first guide display is displayed in the second display area across the two or more first games, when a power outage occurs and the game is restored, the second guide display is displayed in the third display area without re-displaying the first guide display,
The first guidance display can be displayed including both a message and a pictogram, and the first guidance display can be displayed by switching between a first guidance display mode that provides guidance on the hitting method in a first mode and a second guidance display mode that provides guidance on the hitting method in a second mode different from the first mode.
Gaming machine. the first guidance display includes a notification of a condition for ending the first guidance display and a notification of a condition for continuing the first guidance display ;
The gaming machine according to claim 1.