JP7732800B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Conventionally, there are known gaming machines that execute a big prize game in which a big prize lottery is held when a gaming ball enters the starting slot, and if a jackpot is won in this big prize lottery, the big prize slot is opened. In these gaming machines, variable information is determined based on the results of the big prize lottery, and a variable presentation is executed based on the variable information to suggest the likelihood of winning a jackpot.

Patent Document 1 proposes a gaming machine that extends the opening time, interval time, and ending time for a special winning game that is executed when the number of special symbol changes since the previous special winning game has been within 10 spins and a specific jackpot symbol has been won.

Patent Document 2 also proposes a gaming machine that has multiple fixed times for special symbols, and determines the fixed time with different selection rates depending on the number of reserved special symbols.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-29858 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-54518

As mentioned above, gaming machines with a variety of gameplay features have been proposed, but there is a demand for the development of gaming machines that can further increase the enjoyment of gaming through new gameplay features.

The objective of this invention is to provide a gaming machine that can enhance the enjoyment of gaming through new gameplay features.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises a gaming area provided with a start port including at least a variable start port that is provided so as to be able to open and close, an entry area provided in the gaming area, and a normal game management means for controlling a normal game that determines one of a plurality of normal symbols including at least a winning symbol on the condition that a gaming ball enters the entry area, and executes an open/close game that transitions the variable start port to an open state and a closed state when the normal symbol corresponding to the winning symbol is displayed stationary on the normal symbol display unit for a predetermined normal symbol determination time, and a control means for controlling a normal game that can set a first state or a second state that is more advantageous than the first state as the gaming state, and when a predetermined condition is met in the second state, and a game state setting means for changing the game state from the second state to the first state based on the above, a pattern determining means for determining one of a plurality of special patterns including at least a predetermined pattern associated with the execution of a large prize opening game in which a large prize opening provided in the game area is opened when a predetermined start condition is established based on the entry of a game ball into the variable start opening in the opening and closing game, and a losing pattern associated with not executing the large prize opening opening game, a special pattern display means for displaying the special pattern in a special pattern display section for a predetermined special pattern determination time when a predetermined special pattern change time has elapsed , and an effect execution means for executing an effect in the effect display section. The means is capable of controlling the opening and closing of the variable start port in any one of a plurality of opening and closing patterns including a first opening and closing pattern that changes the variable start port to the open state and a second opening and closing pattern that has a longer opening time of the variable start port than the first opening and closing pattern, and the normal symbol determination time is set to be less than the special symbol determination time when the losing symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display section , and in the second state, the time from when the variable start port is controlled to open and close by the second opening and closing pattern to when the next normal game starts is set to be equal to or longer than the special symbol variation time based on the entry of a game ball into the variable start port in the opening and closing game by the second opening and closing pattern, and the performance execution means After displaying a performance pattern in a predetermined manner suggesting that the opening and closing game will be executed by the second opening and closing pattern, if the predetermined pattern is not determined by the pattern determination means when the opening and closing game is executed by the second opening and closing pattern, the performance pattern can be displayed in a specific manner that is at least partially different from the predetermined manner, and if the number of times the normal game is executed reaches a predetermined number, the predetermined condition can be met , and in the second state, a variable performance by the performance pattern is executed based on the normal pattern, a number suggestion performance is executed that suggests the number of times the normal game can be executed in the second state, and the number of times suggested by the number suggestion performance is updated based on the execution of the normal game .

Furthermore, the game system includes: a pattern determination means for determining one of a plurality of special patterns including at least a predetermined pattern associated with the execution of a large prize opening game in which a large prize opening provided in the game area is opened when a predetermined start condition is met, including the entry of a gaming ball into the start opening; a variable time determination means for determining a variable time, which is the time until the special pattern is statically displayed in the pattern display unit; a pattern display control means for, once the variable time is determined, displaying a variable pattern in the pattern display unit over the determined variable time and causing the determined special pattern to be statically displayed in the pattern display unit as the variable time passes; and a large prize opening game execution means for executing the large prize opening game when the predetermined pattern is statically displayed in the pattern display unit, wherein the variable time determination means may be capable of determining the variable time to be shorter than the standby time when the opening and closing process is performed to control the opening and closing of the variable start opening using the second opening and closing pattern.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises: a gaming area provided with a start port including at least a variable start port that can be opened and closed; an entry area provided in the gaming area; a normal game management means for controlling a normal game that determines one of a plurality of normal symbols including at least a winning symbol on the condition that a gaming ball enters the entry area, and executes an open/close game that transitions the variable start port to an open state and a closed state when the normal symbol corresponding to the winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display unit; and a gaming state that can be set to a first state or a second state that is more advantageous than the first state, and transitions from the second state to the first state based on the establishment of a predetermined condition in the second state. a game state setting means for changing the game state; a pattern determining means for determining one of a plurality of special patterns including at least a predetermined pattern associated with the execution of a large prize opening game in which a large prize opening provided in the game area is opened when a predetermined start condition is established based on the entry of a game ball into the variable start opening in the opening and closing game, and a losing pattern associated with not executing the large prize opening opening game; a special pattern display means for displaying the special pattern in a stopped state on a special pattern display unit for a predetermined special pattern determination time when a predetermined special pattern change time has elapsed; and an effect execution means for executing an effect on an effect display unit, wherein the normal game management means is a second means for determining whether or not to change the variable start opening to the open state in the opening and closing game. The variable start port can be controlled to open and close in any of a plurality of opening and closing patterns including a first opening and closing pattern and a second opening and closing pattern in which the opening time of the variable start port is longer than that of the first opening and closing pattern, and the length of the period from when the stopped display of the normal pattern corresponding to the winning pattern starts to when the execution of the opening and closing game by the first opening and closing pattern ends is set to be equal to or less than the special pattern determination time when the losing pattern is stopped and displayed on the special pattern display unit, and in the second state, the time from when the variable start port is controlled to open and close by the second opening and closing pattern to when the next normal game starts is set to be equal to or more than the special pattern fluctuation time based on the entry of a game ball into the variable start port in the opening and closing game by the second opening and closing pattern, The effect execution means, after displaying an effect pattern in a predetermined manner suggesting that the opening and closing game will be executed by the second opening and closing pattern, is capable of displaying an effect pattern in a specific manner that is at least partially different from the predetermined manner if the predetermined pattern is not determined by the pattern determination means when the opening and closing game is executed by the second opening and closing pattern, and when the number of times the normal game is executed reaches a predetermined specified number, the predetermined condition can be met , and in the second state, executes a variable effect using the effect pattern based on the normal pattern, executes a number suggestion effect suggesting the number of times the normal game can be executed in the second state, and updates the number of times suggested by the number suggestion effect based on the execution of the normal game .

Furthermore, the game system includes: a pattern determination means for determining one of a plurality of special patterns including at least a predetermined pattern associated with the execution of a large prize opening game in which a large prize opening provided in the game area is opened when a predetermined start condition is met, including the entry of a gaming ball into the start opening; a fluctuation time determination means for determining a fluctuation time, which is the time until the special pattern is statically displayed on the pattern display unit; a pattern display control means for, when the special pattern is determined by the pattern determination means and the fluctuation time is determined by the fluctuation time determination means, displaying a variable pattern on the pattern display unit over the determined fluctuation time and causing the determined special pattern to be statically displayed on the pattern display unit as the fluctuation time passes; and a large prize opening game execution means for executing the large prize opening game when the predetermined pattern is statically displayed on the pattern display unit, wherein the fluctuation time determination means may be capable of determining the fluctuation time to be shorter than the standby time in the second state.

This invention can increase the enjoyment of the game through new gameplay features.

This is an oblique view of the gaming machine showing the door of the Type 1/Type 2 reference example in an open state. FIG. 1 is a front view of a type 1/type 2 gaming machine according to a reference example. This is a diagram to explain the second large prize slot for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a type 1/type 2 gaming machine according to a reference example. 10 is an address map of a memory area used by a main CPU according to a first-class second-class reference example. This is a diagram explaining the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a diagram explaining the special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. A diagram explaining the winning pattern random number determination table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. A diagram explaining the reach group determination random number judgment table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. A figure explaining the reach mode determination random number judgment table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. A figure explaining the fluctuation pattern random number determination table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a variable time determination table for a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a diagram explaining the first special electric accessory operation ram set table for the Type 1 and Type 2 reference example. This is a diagram explaining the second special electric accessory operation ram set table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a diagram explaining the opening and closing manner of the second large prize opening and the opening and closing manner of a specific area by a movable member in the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a diagram illustrating a game status setting table for setting the game status after the end of a major role game in the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a diagram explaining the winning determination random number judgment table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. (a) is a diagram explaining a normal pattern fluctuation time data table for a type 1/type 2 reference example, and (b) is a diagram explaining an opening/closing control pattern table for a type 1/type 2 reference example. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the gaming machine status flag for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. 10 is a first flowchart illustrating a CPU initialization process in a main control board according to a first-class second-class reference example. 10 is a second flowchart illustrating the CPU initialization process in the main control board according to the first and second class reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a sub-command group set process in a main control board according to a type 1/type 2 reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a power-off evacuation process in a main control board according to a first-class second-class reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a timer interrupt process in a main control board according to a first-class second-class reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating setting-related processing in a main control board according to a first-class, second-class reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a switch management process in a main control board according to a first-class, second-class reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating gate passage processing in a main control board according to a first-class, second-class reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the first starting port passing process in the main control board according to the first and second class reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the second starting port passing process in the main control board according to the first and second class reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the special pattern random number acquisition process in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the acquisition time performance determination process in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a specific area passing process in a main control board according to a first-class second-class reference example. A diagram explaining the special game management phase related to the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. 10 is a flowchart explaining the special game management processing in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the special pattern change waiting process in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the special pattern winning determination process in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the special pattern variable number determination process in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the processing during special pattern fluctuations on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the special pattern stop pattern display processing in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the pre-opening processing of the large prize opening on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the large prize opening/closing switching process on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the large prize opening control process on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the large prize opening closure validity process in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the large prize opening end wait processing in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. A diagram explaining the normal game management phase for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the normal game management processing in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the normal pattern change waiting process in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the processing during normal pattern fluctuations on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the normal pattern stop pattern display processing in the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the pre-opening processing of the normal electric device winning slot on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the normal electric gimmick prize opening/closing switching process on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the control process for opening the winning slot of a normal electric device on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the normal electric device winning opening closure validity process on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a flowchart explaining the waiting process for the end of the normal electric device winning slot on the main control board for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This is a diagram illustrating an example of a variable presentation of a no-reach variable pattern related to a reference presentation example. This is a diagram illustrating an example of a variation presentation of a normal reach variation pattern according to a presentation reference example. This is a diagram illustrating an example of a change presentation of an advanced reach change pattern when a miss occurs, in accordance with a reference presentation example. This is a diagram illustrating an example of a change presentation of the development reach change pattern at the time of a jackpot, in accordance with a reference presentation example. This is a diagram illustrating an example of a variable presentation when the reach development presentation relating to the presentation reference example is executed twice. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a pseudo-continuous reach fluctuation pattern fluctuation presentation according to a presentation reference example. A diagram explaining a variable presentation determination table related to a presentation reference example. A figure explaining an example of a hold display presentation related to a presentation reference example. (a) is a diagram explaining a final hold display pattern determination table for a reference example of presentation, and (b) is a diagram explaining a previous hold display pattern determination table for a reference example of presentation. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the sub-CPU initialization process in the sub-control board for the reference example of the performance. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the sub-timer interrupt processing in the sub-control board for the reference example of the performance. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the pre-reading designation command reception processing in the sub-control board for the reference example performance. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the variable command receiving process in the sub-control board for the reference example performance. A diagram explaining the special jackpot determination random number judgment table for the embodiment. A diagram explaining the special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table in the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a winning symbol random number determination table according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a special variable time determination table according to an embodiment. A diagram explaining the first special electric accessory operation ram set table in the embodiment. A diagram explaining the second special electric accessory operation ram set table in the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a game status setting table according to an embodiment. 10 is a diagram illustrating a special symbol determination time determination table according to an embodiment. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a winning determination random number judgment table according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a normal symbol determination time determination table according to an embodiment. 1A is a diagram illustrating a normal symbol fluctuation time data table according to an embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating an opening/closing control pattern table according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the gameplay of the embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a special symbol stop symbol display process in a main control board according to an embodiment. 10 is a flowchart explaining the large prize opening end wait processing in the main control board in the embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a state setting process in the main control board according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a normal game management phase according to an embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the normal pattern change waiting process in the main control board according to the embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the normal symbol stop symbol display process in the main control board according to the embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a number of cutoff management process in the main control board according to the embodiment. This is a flowchart explaining the normal electric role winning opening/closing switching process on the main control board in the embodiment. This is a flowchart explaining the control process for opening the winning opening of a normal electric device on the main control board in the embodiment. This is a flowchart explaining the waiting process for the end of the normal electric device winning slot on the main control board in the embodiment. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of an operation request presentation according to an embodiment. 10 is a time chart for a normal game according to an embodiment of the present invention. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the normal symbol designation command receiving process in the sub-control board according to the embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a start designation command reception process in a sub-control board according to an embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a number of times designation command reception process in the sub-control board according to the embodiment.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The dimensions, materials, and other specific values shown in these embodiments are merely examples intended to facilitate understanding of the invention and, unless otherwise specified, do not limit the present invention. Furthermore, in this specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same function and configuration are designated by the same reference numerals to avoid redundant explanation, and elements not directly related to the present invention are not shown.

To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, we will first explain the mechanical and electrical configurations of a so-called Type 1/2 mixed gaming machine as a Type 1/2 mixed gaming machine reference example, and the specific processing on each board. Next, as a Type 1/2 mixed gaming machine reference example, we will explain the specific effects that can be executed on the Type 1/2 mixed gaming machine and the specific processing related to those effects. After that, we will specifically explain the configurations that differ from the Type 1/2 mixed gaming machine reference example as an embodiment of the present invention.

<Type 1 and 2 reference examples>
1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine 100 according to a Type 1/Type 2 reference example, showing the door in an open state. As shown in the figure, the gaming machine 100 comprises an outer frame 102 having four sides arranged in a substantially rectangular shape to form an enclosed space, a middle frame 104 attached to the outer frame 102 by a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close freely, and a front frame 106 attached to the middle frame 104 by a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close freely.

Like the outer frame 102, the middle frame 104 has four sides arranged in a roughly rectangular shape to form an enclosed space, and the game board 108 is held in this enclosed space. The front frame 106 also holds a glass or resin transparent plate 110. When the middle frame 104 and front frame 106 are closed against the outer frame 102, the game board 108 and the transparent plate 110 face each other roughly parallel, maintaining a predetermined distance between them, and the game board 108 can be seen through the transparent plate 110 from the front side of the gaming machine 100.

Figure 2 is a front view of a gaming machine 100 according to a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. As shown in this figure, an operating handle 112 that protrudes from the front of the gaming machine 100 is provided at the bottom of the front frame 106. This operating handle 112 is rotatably operable by the player, and when the player rotates the operating handle 112 to perform a firing operation, a gaming ball is fired by a firing mechanism (not shown) with a strength corresponding to the rotation angle of the operating handle 112. The gaming ball fired in this manner rises between rails 114a and 114b provided on the gaming board 108 and is guided to the playing area 116.

The play area 116 is the space formed between the play board 108 and the transparent plate 110, and is an area where game balls can flow down or roll. The play board 108 is equipped with numerous nails and windmills, and game balls guided into the play area 116 collide with the nails and windmills, causing them to flow down or roll in irregular directions.

The play area 116 comprises a first play area 116a and a second play area 116b, which have different degrees of entry for game balls depending on the launch strength of the launch mechanism. The first play area 116a is located on the left side of the play area 116 as seen by a player facing the gaming machine 100, and the second play area 116b is located on the right side of the play area 116 as seen by a player facing the gaming machine 100. Because the rails 114a and 114b are on the left side of the play area 116, game balls launched by the launch mechanism with a launch strength below a predetermined strength will enter the first play area 116a, and game balls launched with a launch strength equal to or greater than the predetermined strength will enter the second play area 116b.

The game area 116 is also provided with a general prize opening 118, a first start opening 120, and a second start opening 122 through which game balls can enter. When a game ball enters the general prize opening 118, the first start opening 120, or the second start opening 122, a predetermined prize ball is paid out to the player. The number of prize balls can be any number greater than one, and the number of prize balls paid out for each of the general prize opening 118, the first start opening 120, and the second start opening 122 may be different or the same number of prize balls. In this case, it is also possible to set the number of prize balls paid out when a game ball enters the first start opening 120 to be less than the number of prize balls paid out when a game ball enters the second start opening 122.

As will be described in more detail below, a first starting area is provided within the first starting hole 120, and a second starting area is provided within the second starting hole 122. When a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 120 or the second starting hole 122 and enters the first starting area or the second starting area, a lottery is held to determine one of a number of pre-established special symbols. Each special symbol is associated with various gaming benefits, such as whether or not a major or minor win advantageous to the player can be executed, and what the subsequent gaming state will be. Therefore, when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 120 or the second starting hole 122, the player not only acquires a predetermined prize ball, but also gains the opportunity to acquire the right to receive various gaming benefits.

The first starting hole 120 is located at the bottom of the game area 116 and is either only accessible to game balls flowing down the first game area 116a, or is positioned so that game balls that have entered the first game area 116a have an easier time entering than game balls that have entered the second game area 116b.

The second starting opening 122 is located in the second game area 116b, and is either only accessible to game balls flowing down the second game area 116b, or is positioned so that game balls that have entered the second game area 116b have an easier time entering than game balls that have entered the first game area 116a. This second starting opening 122 is configured as a variable starting opening (a variable starting winning device) with a movable piece 122b, which allows the ease of game ball entry into the second starting opening 122 to be varied. Specifically, the second starting opening 122 has a movable piece 122b that can be opened and closed, and when this movable piece 122b is in a closed state, it is impossible or difficult for game balls to enter the second starting opening 122. The specific configuration of the second starting opening 122 is not particularly limited, but here, the movable piece 122b is recessed into the rear side of the game board 108 in the closed state, and protrudes from the front side of the game board 108 in the open state.

In contrast, when a gaming ball passes through gate 124 provided in second gaming area 116b, a decision is made as to whether or not to play an auxiliary game in which second start opening 122 is opened. If a decision is made to play the auxiliary game, the auxiliary game is played in which second start opening 122 is controlled to open and close. More specifically, on the condition that a gaming ball has passed through gate 124, a lottery for a normal symbol, as described below, is held, and if a winning symbol is selected in this lottery, movable piece 122b is controlled to an open state for a predetermined period of time. In this way, when movable piece 122b is in an open state, it functions as a receptacle that guides gaming balls to second start opening 122, making it easier for gaming balls to enter second start opening 122.

Furthermore, a first large prize opening 126 and a second large prize opening 128 are provided at the bottom of the gaming area 116. The first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 are positioned so that at least gaming balls flowing down the second gaming area 116b can enter them. The first large prize opening 126 is provided with an openable/closable door 126b, which normally closes the first large prize opening 126, preventing gaming balls from entering the first large prize opening 126. In contrast, when the aforementioned big prize game is executed, the openable/closable door 126b opens and functions as a tray, allowing gaming balls to enter the first large prize opening 126. When a gaming ball enters the first large prize opening 126, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player.

The second large prize opening 128 is also provided with a movable piece 128b that can be opened and closed. Normally, the movable piece 128b closes the second large prize opening 128, preventing game balls from entering the second large prize opening 128. In contrast, when the aforementioned small prize game is played, the movable piece 128b opens and functions as a receptacle, allowing game balls to enter the second large prize opening 128. When a game ball enters the second large prize opening 128, a predetermined prize ball is paid out to the player. The first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 are collectively referred to as the large prize openings. A large prize area is provided in the large prize opening, and when a game ball enters the large prize area, a predetermined prize ball is paid out. In other words, it can be said that the large prize area opens and closes during a large prize game or a small prize game.

Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the second large prize opening 128 in the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. A structure 129 protruding from the front side of the game board 108 is provided in the second game area 116b. This structure 129 has an opening formed at the top, which serves as the second large prize opening 128. A movable piece 128b is provided at the top of the structure 129, and as shown in Figure 3(a), the movable piece 128b is normally maintained in a closed state that closes the second large prize opening 128.

The movable piece 128b protrudes into the game area 116, where game balls roll and flow down, facing above the gaming machine 100. Therefore, when the movable piece 128b is maintained in a closed state, game balls flowing down the game area 116 (second game area 116b) will fall onto the movable piece 128b. Here, the movable piece 128b maintained in a closed state is tilted so that the left side of the gaming machine 100 is slightly lower than the right side. Therefore, when the movable piece 128b is in a closed state, a game ball that has fallen onto the movable piece 128b will roll slowly from right to left on the movable piece 128b, as shown by the arrow in Figure 3(a).

When a small jackpot game, as described below, is executed, the movable piece 128b transitions to an open state, opening the second large prize opening 128. Here, as shown in Figures 3(a) and (b), the movable piece 128b is caused to protrude and retract in the front-to-rear direction of the gaming machine 100 from a hole formed in the gaming board 108 by an actuator (solenoid), not shown. Normally, the actuator is kept de-energized, and the movable piece 128b is held in a position protruding forward from the hole in the gaming board 108, closing the second large prize opening 128. When the actuator is energized, the movable piece 128b is held in a position retracted backward from the hole in the gaming board 108, opening the second large prize opening 128, as shown in Figure 3(b). In this way, when the second large prize opening 128 is open, a gaming ball enters the second large prize opening 128.

A lead-out path 128d is provided inside the second large prize opening 128, and the second large prize opening 128 is inclined so that a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 is led to the lead-out path 128d. The lead-out path 128d is provided with a specific area 140b and a non-specific area 140c, which are holes through which the gaming ball can pass, and is configured so that a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 passes through either the specific area 140b or the non-specific area 140c and is discharged to the back side of the gaming board 108.

The second large prize opening 128 is provided with a movable member 142 that opens and closes the specific area 140b and the non-specific area 140c. This movable member 142, by its movement (sliding), can be switched between a state in which the game ball can enter the specific area 140b and a state in which the game ball cannot enter the specific area 140b. More specifically, when the movable member 142 is displaced to the position shown in FIG. 3(c), the non-specific area 140c is blocked by the movable member 142, allowing the game ball to pass through the specific area 140b. On the other hand, when the movable member 142 is displaced to the position shown in FIG. 3(d), the specific area 140b is blocked by the movable member 142, allowing the game ball to pass through the non-specific area 140c. As will be described in more detail below, if a game ball enters the specific area 140b during a small prize game, a jackpot (type 2 jackpot) is awarded, and the aforementioned major prize game begins.

Returning to Figure 2, at the bottom of the game area 116, there is a discharge outlet 130 that discharges game balls that do not enter any of the general winning opening 118, first starting opening 120, second starting opening 122, first large winning opening 126, or second large winning opening 128 from the game area 116 to the back side of the game board 108.

The gaming machine 100 is equipped with a performance display device 200 consisting of a liquid crystal display device, a performance prop device 202 consisting of a movable device, a performance lighting device 204 consisting of lamps that can be controlled to various lighting modes and emission colors, an audio output device 206 consisting of a speaker, and a performance button 208 that accepts player operation, as performance devices that produce performance effects while the game is in progress.

The effect display device 200 is equipped with a main effect display unit 200a and a sub-effect display unit 201a, which are composed of image display units that display images. The main effect display unit 200a is located approximately in the center of the gaming board 108 and is visible from the front side of the gaming machine 100. As shown, the main effect display unit 200a displays variable effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c, and the stopping display patterns of these effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c result in a variable effect in which the player is notified of the results of the major role lottery. The sub-effect display unit 201a is located above the main effect display unit 200a and displays auxiliary effect images during the variable effect.

The effect device 202 is located in front of the main effect display section 200a and is normally retracted to the rear side of the game board 108, but when the effect patterns 210a, 210b, and 210c are being displayed in a changing state, it moves up to the front of the main effect display section 200a, giving the player a sense of anticipation of a big win.

The effect lighting device 204 is provided on the effect device 202, the game board 108, etc., and is controlled to light up in various ways in accordance with the images displayed on the main effect display section 200a.

The audio output device 206 is located at the top of the front frame 106 or at the bottom of the outer frame 102, and outputs various sounds toward the front of the gaming machine 100 in accordance with the images displayed in the main effect display section 200a.

The effect button 208 is composed of a button that accepts pressing operations by the player, and is located approximately in the center of the gaming machine 100 in the width direction, and below the transparent plate 110. This effect button 208 is activated in accordance with the images displayed on the main effect display section 200a, and when a player's operation is accepted within the effective operation time, various effects are executed according to that operation.

In the figure, reference numeral 132 denotes an upper tray into which prize balls paid out from the gaming machine 100 and game balls dispensed from the game ball dispenser are guided; when this upper tray 132 is full of game balls, the game balls are guided to the lower tray 134. A ball ejection hole (not shown) is formed in the bottom surface of this lower tray 134 for ejecting game balls from the lower tray 134. This ball ejection hole is normally closed by an opening/closing plate (not shown); however, by pushing in the ball ejection knob 134a, the opening/closing plate slides together with the ball ejection knob 134a, allowing game balls to be ejected from the ball ejection hole below the lower tray 134.

In addition, the game board 108 is provided with a first special symbol display 160, a second special symbol display 162, a first special symbol reserved display 164, a second special symbol reserved display 166, a normal symbol display 168, a normal symbol reserved display 170, and a right-hit notification display 172, located outside the play area 116 and in a position visible to the player. Each of these displays 160-172 is a device for displaying various game-related statuses, and details of these will be provided later.

(Internal configuration of control means)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control means for controlling the progress of the game according to the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

The main control board 300 controls the basic operations of the game. This main control board 300 is equipped with a main CPU 300a, main ROM 300b, and main RAM 300c. The main CPU 300a reads programs stored in the main ROM 300b and performs calculations based on input signals from each detection switch and timer, and also directly controls each device and display, or sends commands to other boards depending on the results of the calculations. The main RAM 300c functions as a data work area during calculations by the main CPU 300a.

The gaming machine 100 according to the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example is broadly divided into a special game, which is initiated when a gaming ball enters the first start opening 120 or the second start opening 122, and a regular game, which is initiated when a gaming ball passes through the gate 124. The main ROM 300b of the main control board 300 stores various programs for progressing the special game and regular game, as well as data and tables required for various games.

Connected to the main control board 300 are a general entry opening detection switch 118s that detects when a gaming ball enters the general entry opening 118, a first start opening detection switch 120s that detects when a gaming ball enters the first start opening 120, a second start opening detection switch 122s that detects when a gaming ball enters the second start opening 122, a gate detection switch 124s that detects when a gaming ball passes through the gate 124, a first large entry opening detection switch 126s that detects when a gaming ball enters the first large entry opening 126, a second large entry opening detection switch 128s that detects when a gaming ball enters the second large entry opening 128, a specific area detection switch 140s that detects when a gaming ball enters the specific area 140b, and an out ball detection switch 130s that detects when a gaming ball is ejected from the gaming area 116. Detection signals are input from each of these detection switches to the main control board 300.

A junction passage is provided on the back of the game board 108, and game balls that enter the general winning opening 118, first starting opening 120, second starting opening 122, first large winning opening 126, and second large winning opening 128, as well as game balls that are guided to the back side from the discharge opening 130, join together in the junction passage and are then guided to the game facility's facilities. The out ball detection switch 130s is provided in the junction passage, and all game balls that are discharged from the game area 116, in other words, all game balls that are launched into the game area 116, are detected by the out ball detection switch 130s.

In addition, the main control board 300 is connected to a normal electric device solenoid 122c that operates the movable piece 122b of the second starting opening 122, a first large winning opening solenoid 126c that operates the opening/closing door 126b that opens and closes the first large winning opening 126, a second large winning opening solenoid 128c that operates the movable piece 128b that opens and closes the second large winning opening 128, and a movable member drive solenoid 142c that moves the movable member 142 provided within the second large winning opening 128. The main control board 300 controls the opening and closing of the second starting opening 122, first large winning opening 126, second large winning opening 128, and specific area 140b.

Furthermore, the main control board 300 is connected to the first special symbol display 160, the second special symbol display 162, the first special symbol reserved display 164, the second special symbol reserved display 166, the normal symbol display 168, the normal symbol reserved display 170, and the right-hit notification display 172, and the display of each of these displays is controlled by the main control board 300.

The gaming machine 100 is also equipped with multiple abnormality detection sensors 174 that detect possible abnormalities or fraud, such as a radio wave detection sensor that detects radio waves, a magnetic detection sensor that detects magnetism, and a door open sensor that detects the open state of the middle frame 104 or front frame 106. Each abnormality detection sensor 174 is configured to input an abnormality detection signal to the main control board 300.

Furthermore, a setting change switch 180s is provided on the back of the gaming board 108. The setting change switch 180s is configured to be accessible with a dedicated key. When the setting change switch 180s is turned on, it becomes possible to change and confirm the setting values. As will be described in more detail below, the gaming machine 100 according to the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example stores one of six setting values with different degrees of advantage in the setting value buffer as a registered setting value, and the game progresses according to the stored registered setting value.

In addition, a RAM clear button is provided on the back of the game board 108 so that it can be pressed, and pressing this RAM clear button is detected by the RAM clear switch 182s. The RAM clear switch 182s is connected to the main control board 300, and a RAM clear operation signal is input from the RAM clear switch 182s to the main control board 300. If a RAM clear operation signal is input from the RAM clear switch 182s when the power is turned on, the main CPU 300a clears the main RAM 300c.

In addition, a performance display monitor 184 is provided on the back of the game board 108. The main control board 300 displays the registered setting values and base ratios on the performance display monitor 184.

In addition, the main control board 300 is connected to the dispensing control board 310 and the sub-control board 330.

The payout control board 310 controls the firing of game balls and the payout of prize balls. This payout control board 310 also has a CPU, ROM, and RAM, and is connected to the main control board 300 for bidirectional communication. A game information output terminal board 312 is connected to this payout control board 310, and various information on game progress output from the main control board 300 is output to the gaming parlor's hall computer, etc. via the payout control board 310 and the game information output terminal board 312.

The payout control board 310 is also connected to a payout motor 314 for paying out the game balls stored in the storage section to the player as prize balls. The payout control board 310 controls the payout motor 314 based on a payout number designation command sent from the main control board 300, so that a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. At this time, the number of paid out game balls is detected by a payout ball counting switch 316s, so that it is possible to determine whether the prize balls that should have been paid out have been paid out to the player.

In addition, a tray full detection switch 318s is connected to the payout control board 310, which detects whether the lower tray 134 is full. This tray full detection switch 318s is located in a passage that guides game balls paid out as prize balls to the lower tray 134, and a game ball detection signal is input to the payout control board 310 each time a game ball passes through the passage.

When the lower tray 134 accumulates more than a predetermined amount of game balls and reaches a full state, game balls become trapped in the path leading to the lower tray 134, and game ball detection signals are continuously input from the full tray detection switch 318s to the payout control board 310. If the game ball detection signal is continuously input for a predetermined period of time, the payout control board 310 determines that the lower tray 134 is full, and sends a full tray command to the main control board 300. On the other hand, if the continuous input of the game ball detection signal stops after sending the full tray command, it determines that the full state has been released, and sends a full tray release command to the main control board 300.

In addition, a launch control circuit 320 is connected to the payout control board 310 so that it can communicate bidirectionally. When the launch control circuit 320 receives launch control data from the payout control board 310, it authorizes the launch. Connected to the launch control circuit 320 are a touch sensor 112s provided on the operating handle 112, which detects when the player touches the operating handle 112, and an operating volume 112a, which detects the operating angle of the operating handle 112. When signals are input from the touch sensor 112s and the operating volume 112a, the launch control circuit 320 controls the energization of a launch solenoid 112c provided on the game ball launcher, thereby launching the game ball.

The sub-control board 330 mainly controls various effects during gameplay, standby, etc. This sub-control board 330 is equipped with a sub-CPU 330a, sub-ROM 330b, sub-RAM 330c, and RTC 330d, and is connected to the main control board 300 so that communication can be performed in one direction from the main control board 300 to the sub-control board 330. The sub-CPU 330a reads out programs stored in the sub-ROM 330b and performs calculations based on commands sent from the main control board 300 and input signals from the timer, and also controls the execution of the effects. At this time, the sub-RAM 330c functions as a data work area during calculation processing by the sub-CPU 330a.

Specifically, the sub-control board 330 controls image display to display images on the main display unit 200a and sub display unit 201a. The sub-ROM 330b stores a large amount of image data to be displayed on the main display unit 200a and sub display unit 201a, and the sub-CPU 330a reads the image data from the sub-ROM 330b to a VRAM (not shown) and controls the image display on the main display unit 200a and sub display unit 201a.

The sub-control board 330 also controls the movement of the prop device 202 and the lighting of the lighting device 204, as well as audio output control, which outputs sound from the audio output device 206. Furthermore, when an operation detection signal is input from the effect button detection switch 208s, which detects that the effect button 208 has been pressed, a predetermined effect is executed.

A power supply board (not shown) is connected to each board, and power is supplied to each board from a commercial power source via the power supply board. The power supply board is also equipped with a backup power supply consisting of a capacitor. The RTC 330d installed on the sub-control board 330 receives power from this backup power supply and keeps track of the current time.

Figure 5 is an address map of the memory area used by the main CPU 300a in the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example. Note that in Figure 5, addresses are shown in hexadecimal, with "H" indicating hexadecimal. As shown in Figure 5, the memory area used by the main CPU 300a includes the memory area allocated to the main ROM 300b (0000H-2FFFH) and the memory area allocated to the main RAM 300c (F000H-F3FFH).

The memory area of the main ROM 300b is divided into a used area (0000H to 1A7AH) that stores programs and data for controlling the progress of the game, and an unused area (2000H to 2BFFH) that stores programs and data for performing processes for conducting tests stipulated by gaming machine regulations and for displaying the performance display monitor 184 (including processes for calculating the base ratio to be displayed on the performance display monitor 184).

The used area of the main ROM 300b includes a program area (0000H-0A89H) where programs for controlling the progress of the game are stored, an unused area (0A8AH-0FFFH), and a data area (1000H-1A7AH) where data other than programs is stored. Note that the used area does not necessarily have to include the unused area (0A8AH-0FFFH).

The unused area of the main ROM 300b includes a program area (2000H-27FFH) that stores programs for performing processes required for testing as defined by gaming machine regulations and for displaying the performance display monitor 184, and a data area (2800H-2BFFH) that stores data other than these programs.

In addition to the used and unused areas, the memory area of main ROM 300b also includes an unused area (1A7BH-1DFFH), a ROM comment area (1E00H-1EFFH) in which arbitrary data such as the program title and version is stored, an unused area (1F00H-1FFFH), an unused area (2C00H-2FBFH), and a program management area (2FC0H-2FFFH) in which information necessary for main CPU 300a to execute programs is stored.

The main RAM 300c memory area is divided into a used area (F000H-F1FFH) that is temporarily used when a program for controlling the progress of the game is being executed, and a non-used area (F210H-F228H) that is temporarily used when a program for performing tests stipulated by gaming machine regulations or displaying the performance display monitor 184 is being executed.

The used area of main RAM 300c includes a work area (F000H-F12AH) that is temporarily used when a program for controlling game progress is being executed, an unused area (F12BH-F1D7H), and a stack area (F1D8H-F1FFH) where data is temporarily saved while a program for controlling game progress is being executed. Note that the used area does not necessarily have to include the unused area (F12BH-F1D7H).

The unused area of main RAM 300c contains a work area (F210H-F21FH) that is temporarily used when programs are being executed to perform tests stipulated by gaming machine regulations and to display the performance display monitor 184, and a stack area (F220H-F228H) that temporarily saves data when these programs are being executed.

In addition to the used and unused areas, the memory area of main RAM 300c also includes unused areas (F200H-F20FH) and unused areas (F229H-F3FFH).

In this way, the main ROM 300b and main RAM 300c are divided into a used area used to control the progress of the game and a non-used area used to execute processes for conducting tests stipulated by gaming machine regulations and for controlling the display of the performance display monitor 184.

The main RAM 300c also has a 16-byte unused area (F200H-F20FH) between the used area and the unused area. This unused area (F200H-F20FH) is set as a boundary area separating the used area and the unused area, making the boundary between the used area and the unused area clear and preventing the unused area from being used when a program for controlling the progress of the game is being executed, and preventing the used area from being used when a program for performing tests stipulated in the gaming machine regulations or for controlling the display of the performance display monitor 184 is being executed.

The unused area between the used area and unused area only needs to be at least 1 byte, but from the perspective of preventing fraud, it is preferable that it be 4 bytes or more, and even more preferable that it be set to 16 bytes or more. Furthermore, writing and reading data into the unused area is prohibited, but from the perspective of preventing fraud, it may be cleared at a specified time.

Next, we will explain the gameplay on the gaming machine 100 relating to the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, along with the various tables stored in the main ROM 300b.

As mentioned above, the gaming machine 100 according to the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example allows two types of games, special games and regular games, to proceed in parallel, and when these two games are played, the game proceeds in either a non-time-saving game state or a time-saving game state.

Details of each game state will be described later, but the non-time-saving game state is a game state in which the movable piece 122b is less likely to open and the game ball is less likely to enter the second start opening 122, and the time-saving game state is a game state in which the movable piece 122b is more likely to open than in the non-time-saving game state and the game ball is more likely to enter the second start opening 122. The initial state of the gaming machine 100 is set to the non-time-saving game state.

When a player operates the operating handle 112 to launch a gaming ball into the gaming area 116, and the gaming ball flowing down the gaming area 116 enters the first starting hole 120 or the second starting hole 122, a lottery (hereinafter referred to as the "big prize lottery") is held to determine whether the player will receive a gaming benefit. If a big prize or small prize is won in this big prize lottery, the first big prize opening 126 and the second big prize opening 128 are opened, and a big prize game or small prize game is executed, allowing gaming balls to enter the first big prize opening 126 and the second big prize opening 128. Furthermore, the gaming state after the big prize game ends is set to one of the above gaming states. The big prize lottery method is explained below.

As will be described in more detail below, when a gaming ball enters the first start port 120 or the second start port 122, various random number values related to the big prize lottery (jackpot determination random number, winning symbol random number, reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variable pattern random number) are obtained, and these random number values are stored in the special symbol reserve memory area of the main RAM 300c. Hereinafter, the various random numbers stored in the special symbol reserve memory area when a gaming ball enters the first start port 120 will be collectively referred to as special 1 reserve, and the various random numbers stored in the special symbol reserve memory area when a gaming ball enters the second start port 122 will be collectively referred to as special 2 reserve.

The special symbol reserve memory area of the main RAM 300c includes a first special symbol reserve memory area and a second special symbol reserve memory area. The first special symbol reserve memory area and the second special symbol reserve memory area each have four memory sections (first to fourth memory sections). When a game ball enters the first starting hole 120, the special symbol 1 reserve is stored in order starting from the first memory section of the first special symbol reserve memory area, and when a game ball enters the second starting hole 122, the special symbol 2 reserve is stored in order starting from the first memory section of the second special symbol reserve memory area.

For example, when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 120, if no reserve is stored in any of the first through fourth memory sections of the first special symbol reserve memory area, a special 1 reserve is stored in the first memory section. Also, for example, if a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 120 while a special 1 reserve is stored in the first through third memory sections, the special 1 reserve is stored in the fourth memory section. Also, similarly to the above, when a gaming ball enters the second starting hole 122, a special 2 reserve is stored in the memory section with the smallest number (ordinal number) among the first through fourth memory sections of the second special symbol reserve memory area, where a special 2 reserve is not stored.

However, the number of special 1 reserves (X1) and the number of special 2 reserves (X2) that can be stored in the first special chart reserve memory area and the second special chart reserve memory area are each set to four. Therefore, for example, if four special 1 reserves are already stored in the first special chart reserve memory area when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 120, no new special 1 reserves will be stored as a result of the gaming ball entering the first starting hole 120. Similarly, if four special 2 reserves are already stored in the second special chart reserve memory area when a gaming ball enters the second starting hole 122, no new special 2 reserves will be stored as a result of the gaming ball entering the second starting hole 122.

Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table for a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. When a game ball enters the first start hole 120 or the second start hole 122, a jackpot determination random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 65535. Then, when the big win lottery begins, that is, when the jackpot determination is made, a jackpot determination random number judgment table is selected depending on the game state, and the big win lottery is performed using the selected jackpot determination random number judgment table and the obtained jackpot determination random number.

When starting the lottery for the special 1 reserved jackpot, the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table is referenced. Here, in the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, there are six setting values with different degrees of advantage, and a special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table is provided for each setting value. During play, the setting value is set to one of the six levels, and the lottery for the special 1 jackpot is performed by referencing the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table corresponding to the currently set setting value (the registered setting value stored in the setting value buffer).

When the setting value is set to 1 (registered setting value = 1), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table a shown in Figure 6(a). According to this special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table a, a jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 10001 and 10278, a small jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 20001 and 20655, and a miss is determined if the jackpot determination random number is any other number. Therefore, in this case, the probability of a jackpot is approximately 1/235.7, and the probability of a small jackpot is approximately 1/100.0.

When the setting value is set to 2 (registered setting value = 2), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table b shown in Figure 6 (b). According to this special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table b, a jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 10001 and 10288, a small jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 20001 and 20655, and a miss is determined if the jackpot determination random number is any other number. Therefore, in this case, the probability of a jackpot is approximately 1/227.6, and the probability of a small jackpot is approximately 1/100.0.

When the setting value is set to 3 (registered setting value = 3), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table c shown in Figure 6 (c). According to this special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table c, a jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 10001 and 10298, a small jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 20001 and 20655, and a miss is determined if the jackpot determination random number is any other number. Therefore, in this case, the probability of a jackpot is approximately 1/219.9, and the probability of a small jackpot is approximately 1/100.0.

When the setting value is set to 4 (registered setting value = 4), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table d shown in Figure 6 (d). According to this special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table d, a jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 10001 and 10308, a small jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 20001 and 20655, and a miss is determined if the jackpot determination random number is any other number. Therefore, in this case, the probability of a jackpot is approximately 1/212.8, and the probability of a small jackpot is approximately 1/100.0.

When the setting value is set to 5 (registered setting value = 5), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table e shown in Figure 6 (e). According to this special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table e, a jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 10001 and 10318, a small jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 20001 and 20655, and a miss is determined if the jackpot determination random number is any other number. Therefore, in this case, the probability of a jackpot is approximately 1/206.1, and the probability of a small jackpot is approximately 1/100.0.

When the setting value is set to 6 (registered setting value = 6), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table f shown in Figure 6 (f). According to this special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table f, a jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 10001 and 10328, a small jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 20001 and 0655, and a miss is determined if the jackpot determination random number is any other number. Therefore, in this case, the probability of a jackpot is approximately 1/199.8, and the probability of a small jackpot is approximately 1/100.0.

Figure 7 is a diagram explaining the special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. When starting the big prize lottery for the special 2 reserve, the special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table is referenced. The special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table is also provided for each setting value, just like the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table.

When the setting value is set to 1 (registered setting value = 1), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing the special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table a shown in Figure 7(a). According to this special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table a, a jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 10001 and 10278, a small jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 20001 and 28856, and a miss is determined if the jackpot determination random number is any other number. Therefore, in this case, the probability of a jackpot is approximately 1/235.7, and the probability of a small jackpot is approximately 1/7.4.

Similarly, when the setting value is set to 2 to 6 (registered setting value = 2 to 6), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing Special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment tables b to f shown in Figures 7(b) to (f). According to these Special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment tables b to f, a jackpot is determined when the jackpot determination random number is the value shown. Therefore, when the setting value is 2 to 6, the jackpot probability is approximately 1/227.6 to 1/199.8, respectively, and the small jackpot probability is approximately 1/7.4.

As described above, the big prize lottery is conducted according to the registered setting value. At this time, the probability of winning a big prize differs depending on the registered setting value, and it is easier to win a big prize when the registered setting value is large than when it is small. Note that here, the probability of winning a small prize does not change even if the registered setting value differs, but the probability of winning a small prize may differ for each registered setting value. Also, a small prize is not required, and the big prize lottery may determine only a big prize or a loss.

Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a winning symbol random number determination table for a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. When a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 120 or the second starting hole 122, one winning symbol random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 99. Then, when the determination result of "big win" or "small win" is derived from the above-mentioned major role lottery, the type of special symbol is determined based on the obtained winning symbol random number and the winning symbol random number determination table. At this time, if a "big win" is won by special 1 reservation, special 1 winning symbol random number determination table a is selected, as shown in Figure 8(a), and if a "small win" is won by special 1 reservation, special 1 winning symbol random number determination table b is selected, as shown in Figure 8(b). Furthermore, if a "big win" is won by special 2 reservation, special 2 winning symbol random number determination table a is selected as shown in Figure 8(c), and if a "small win" is won by special 2 reservation, special 2 winning symbol random number determination table b is selected as shown in Figure 8(d). Hereinafter, the special symbol determined by the winning symbol random number, i.e., the special symbol determined when a big win is determined, is referred to as the big win symbol, the special symbol determined when a small win is determined, is referred to as the small win symbol, and the special symbol determined when a loss is determined, is referred to as the loss symbol.

According to the special 1 winning symbol random number determination table a shown in Figure 8(a) and the special 2 winning symbol random number determination table a shown in Figure 8(c), the type of special symbol (big winning symbol) is determined according to the value of the acquired winning symbol random number, as shown. Furthermore, according to the special 1 winning symbol random number determination table b shown in Figure 8(b) and the special 2 winning symbol random number determination table b shown in Figure 8(d), the type of special symbol (small winning symbol) is determined according to the value of the acquired winning symbol random number, as shown.

On the other hand, if the result of the big role lottery is a "lose" and the lottery result is derived by special 1 reservation, special pattern X will be determined as the losing pattern without a lottery being held. Also, if the result of the big role lottery is a "lose" and the lottery result is derived by special 2 reservation, special pattern Y will be determined as the losing pattern without a lottery being held.

In other words, the winning symbol random number determination table is referenced only when the result of the major role lottery is a "big win" or a "small win," and is not referenced when the result of the major role lottery is a "miss." Note that here, the same jackpot symbol is determined in the special 1 winning symbol random number determination table and the special 2 winning symbol random number determination table. However, different jackpot symbols may be determined in both tables, or the type of special symbol (jackpot symbol) may be determined by referencing the winning symbol random number determination table 1 regardless of the reserved type.

Note that here, the selection ratio for the big win symbol and the small win symbol is the same for all setting values, but either or both of the big win symbol and the small win symbol may be different for each setting value.

Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating a reach group determination random number judgment table for a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. Multiple reach group determination random number judgment tables are provided, and a preset table is selected depending on the hold type, hold number, game status, and variable status associated with the game status. When a game ball enters the first start port 120 or the second start port 122, a reach group determination random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 10006. As described above, once the result of the big role lottery is derived, a process is performed to determine the variable performance pattern (variation mode number, variable pattern number) that will notify the result of the big role lottery. In the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, if the result of the big role lottery is a "miss," the group type is first determined based on the reach group determination random number and reach group determination random number judgment table in determining the variable performance pattern. Note that the variable status specifies which table is referenced to determine the variable performance pattern, and is a concept set separately from the game status.

For example, when the game state is set to the non-time-saving game state, if a "miss" major role lottery result is derived based on the special 1 reserve, and the number of reserved special 1 reserves (hereinafter simply referred to as the "reserved number") at the time of the major role lottery is 0, then Reach Group Determination Random Number Judgment Table 1 is selected, as shown in FIG. 9(a). Similarly, when the game state is set to the non-time-saving game state, if a "miss" major role lottery result is derived based on the special 1 reserve, and the number of reserved special 1 reserves at the time of the major role lottery is 1, then Reach Group Determination Random Number Judgment Table 2 is selected, as shown in FIG. 9(b). If the number of reserved special 1 reserves is 2 to 3, then Reach Group Determination Random Number Judgment Table 3 is selected, as shown in FIG. 9(c). Note that in FIG. 9, the group x listed in the group type column indicates an arbitrary group number. Therefore, various group numbers are determined as the group type depending on the acquired reach group determination random number and the type of reach group determination random number judgment table referenced.

Here, we have explained the reach group determination random number judgment table that is referenced when a "miss" major role lottery result is derived based on a special 1 hold in non-time-saving game mode, but main ROM 300b also stores many other reach group determination random number judgment tables.

If the result of the big role lottery is a "big win" or a "small win," the group type is not determined when determining the variable presentation pattern. In other words, the reach group determination random number judgment table is only referenced if the result of the big role lottery is a "miss," and is not referenced if the result of the big role lottery is a "big win" or a "small win."

Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the reach mode determination random number judgment table for a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This reach mode determination random number judgment table is broadly divided into a miss reach mode determination random number judgment table that is selected when the big role lottery result is a "miss," a jackpot reach mode determination random number judgment table that is selected when the big role lottery result is a "jackpot," and a small win reach mode determination random number judgment table that is selected when the big role lottery result is a "small win." Note that the miss reach mode determination random number judgment table is provided for each group type determined as described above, and the jackpot reach mode determination random number judgment table and the small win reach mode determination random number judgment table are provided for each reserve type.

Furthermore, each reach mode determination random number judgment table is also provided for each game state and symbol type. Here, an example of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for group x when it is a miss, referenced for a specific game state and symbol type, is shown in Figure 10(a), an example of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for special 1 when it is a jackpot, is shown in Figure 10(b), an example of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for special 2 when it is a jackpot, is shown in Figure 10(c), an example of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for special 1 when it is a small jackpot, is shown in Figure 10(d), and an example of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for special 2 when it is a small jackpot is shown in Figure 10(e).

When a gaming ball enters the first start hole 120 or the second start hole 122, a reach mode determination random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 250. If the result of the big role lottery is a "miss," as shown in Figure 10(a), a reach mode determination random number judgment table for misses corresponding to the group type determined by the group type lottery is selected, and a variable mode number is determined based on the selected reach mode determination random number judgment table for misses and the reach mode determination random number. If the result of the big role lottery is a "jackpot," as shown in Figures 10(b) and 10(c), a reach mode determination random number judgment table for jackpots corresponding to the read-out hold type is selected, and a variable mode number is determined based on the selected reach mode determination random number judgment table for jackpots and the reach mode determination random number.

Furthermore, if the result of the above-mentioned big prize lottery is a "small prize," as shown in Figures 10(d) and (e), the small prize reach mode determination random number judgment table corresponding to the read-out hold type is selected, and the variable mode number is determined based on the selected small prize reach mode determination random number judgment table and the reach mode determination random number.

In addition, in each reach mode determination random number judgment table, the reach mode determination random number is associated with a fluctuation mode number and a fluctuation pattern random number judgment table (described below). The fluctuation pattern random number judgment table is determined at the same time the fluctuation mode number is determined. In Figure 10, the table x listed in the fluctuation pattern random number judgment table column indicates an arbitrary table number. Therefore, the fluctuation mode number and the table number of the fluctuation pattern random number judgment table are determined according to the acquired reach group determination random number and the type of reach mode determination random number judgment table being referenced. In addition, in the Type 1 and Type 2 reference examples, the fluctuation mode number and the fluctuation pattern number (described below) are set in hexadecimal. In the following, hexadecimal numbers are indicated by the letter "H," but the notation ○○H in Figures 10 to 12 indicates an arbitrary value expressed in hexadecimal.

As described above, if the result of the big role lottery is a "lose," the group type is first determined using the reach group determination random number judgment table and reach group determination random number shown in Figure 9. Then, depending on the determined group type and game status, the variation mode number and variation pattern random number judgment table are determined using the reach mode determination random number judgment table when a miss is reached and the reach mode determination random number shown in Figure 10(a).

On the other hand, if the result of the major prize lottery is a "jackpot" or "small jackpot," the jackpot reach mode determination random number judgment table shown in Figure 10, which corresponds to the determined jackpot or small jackpot pattern (type of special pattern), the game state at the time of the jackpot or small jackpot win, etc., will be referenced, and the reach mode determination random number will be used to determine the variation mode number and variation pattern random number judgment table.

Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating a fluctuation pattern random number determination table for a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. Here, fluctuation pattern random number determination table x for a specific table number x is shown, but there are many other fluctuation pattern random number determination tables provided for each table number.

When a game ball enters the first starting hole 120 or the second starting hole 122, a fluctuation pattern random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 238. Then, based on the fluctuation pattern random number determination table determined at the same time as the above fluctuation mode number and the obtained fluctuation pattern random number, a fluctuation pattern number is determined as shown in the figure.

In this way, when the big prize lottery is held, a fluctuation mode number and fluctuation pattern number are determined based on the big prize lottery result, the determined symbol type, game status, number of reserved balls, reserved ball type, etc. These fluctuation mode numbers and fluctuation pattern numbers specify the fluctuation presentation pattern, and each is associated with a fluctuation presentation mode and time.

Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating a fluctuation time determination table for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. Once the fluctuation mode number is determined as described above, fluctuation time 1 is determined according to the fluctuation time 1 determination table shown in Figure 12(a). According to this fluctuation time 1 determination table, fluctuation time 1 is associated with each fluctuation mode number, and the corresponding fluctuation time 1 is determined according to the determined fluctuation mode number.

Furthermore, once the fluctuation pattern number is determined as described above, fluctuation time 2 is determined according to the fluctuation time 2 determination table shown in Figure 12 (b). According to this fluctuation time 2 determination table, a fluctuation time 2 is associated with each fluctuation pattern number, and the corresponding fluctuation time 2 is determined according to the determined fluctuation pattern number. The total time of fluctuation times 1 and 2 determined in this way is the time for the fluctuation presentation that notifies the result of the big role lottery, i.e., the fluctuation time.

Once the fluctuation mode number is determined in the above manner, a fluctuation mode command corresponding to the determined fluctuation mode number is sent to the sub-control board 330, and once the fluctuation pattern number is determined, a fluctuation pattern command corresponding to the determined fluctuation pattern number is sent to the sub-control board 330. The sub-control board 330 determines mainly the first half of the fluctuation performance based on the received fluctuation mode command, and mainly determines the second half of the fluctuation performance based on the received fluctuation pattern command, details of which will be described later. Note that below, the fluctuation mode number and fluctuation pattern number will be collectively referred to as fluctuation information, and the fluctuation mode command and fluctuation pattern command will sometimes be collectively referred to as fluctuation commands.

Figure 13 is a diagram explaining the first special electric feature activation ram set table for a Type 1/2 reference example, and Figure 14 is a diagram explaining the second special electric feature activation ram set table for a Type 1/2 reference example. The first special electric feature activation ram set table and the second special electric feature activation ram set table store various data for controlling large prize games and small prize games, and during large prize games and small prize games, the first large prize opening solenoid 126c and the second large prize opening solenoid 128c are controlled by referring to the first special electric feature activation ram set table or the second special electric feature activation ram set table. Hereinafter, the first special electric feature activation ram set table and the second special electric feature activation ram set table will be collectively referred to simply as the special electric feature activation ram set table. In reality, multiple special electric device activation RAM set tables are provided for each type of special symbol (big win symbol and small win symbol), and depending on the type of special symbol determined, the corresponding table is set at the start of the big win game or small win game, but for the sake of explanation, the control data for all special symbols is shown in one table here.

When the special symbols A, B, and C, which are the jackpot symbols, are determined, an opening/closing process is executed to control the opening and closing of the first large prize opening 126 in a predetermined opening/closing pattern, with reference to the first special electric device activation ram set table, as shown in FIG. 13. Furthermore, when the special symbols a, b, and c, which are the small prize symbols, are determined, an opening/closing process is executed to control the opening and closing of the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 in a predetermined opening/closing pattern, with reference to the second special electric device activation ram set table, as shown in FIG. 14. The big prize game consists of multiple rounds of play in which the first large prize opening 126 is opened and closed a predetermined number of times, and the small prize game consists of only one round of play in which the second large prize opening 128 is opened and closed a predetermined number of times.

According to the special electric device activation ram set table, the opening time (waiting time until the first round of play begins), the maximum number of times the special electric device is activated (the number of rounds of play executed during one major win or small win game), the number of times the large prize opening slot (the first large prize opening slot 126 and the second large prize opening slot 128 that are opened in each round of play) and the number of times the special electric device is switched on and off (the number of times the first large prize opening slot 126 and the second large prize opening slot 128 are opened during one round of play) are stored. The control data for the big win game, such as the power-on time of the prize port solenoid 128c (i.e., the time the first large win port 126 and the second large win port 128 are open in one play), the specified number (the maximum number of wins that can be won in the first large win port 126 and the second large win port 128 in one round of play), the effective time for closing the large win port (the time the first large win port 126 and the second large win port 128 are closed between rounds of play, i.e., the interval time between rounds), and the ending time (the waiting time from the end of the last round of play until normal special play resumes), are pre-stored as control data for the big win game for each type of big win symbol, as shown in the figure.

In the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, if the special jackpot symbol A is selected, a big win game consisting of four rounds of play is executed, and if special symbols B or C are selected, a big win game consisting of 15 rounds of play is executed. Each round of play ends when the specified number (7) of game balls enter the first big winning opening 126, or when a specified time (29.0 seconds) has passed since the first big winning opening 126 was opened.

Also, as shown in FIG. 14, when special patterns a, b, or c, which are small win patterns, are determined, a small win game consisting of one round of play is first played. In this small win game, the second large winning opening 128 is repeatedly opened and closed. In a small win game that is played when special pattern a is determined, the second large winning opening 128 is opened only once for 0.1 seconds. In a small win game that is played when special patterns b or c are determined, the second large winning opening 128 is controlled to open and close in the following order: 0.1 second opening (open 1), 3.0 second closing (close 1), 0.1 second opening (open 2), 1.0 second closing (close 2), 0.1 second opening (open 3), 1.0 second closing (close 3), and 0.1 second opening (open 4).

The second large prize opening 128 is provided with a specific area 140b and a non-specific area 140c inside, and a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 will always enter either the specific area 140b or the non-specific area 140c. If a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 enters the specific area 140b during a small prize game, a large prize game is played following the small prize game, in which the first large prize opening 126 is opened.

At this time, if special symbols a and b, which are small win symbols, are determined, four rounds of play will be played in which the first large prize slot 126 is opened once every 29.0 seconds. Furthermore, if special symbol c, which is a small win symbol, is determined, 15 rounds of play will be played in the large win game.

Figure 15 illustrates the opening and closing modes of the second large prize opening 128 and the opening and closing mode of the specific area 140b by the movable member 142 in a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. As shown in Figure 15, during a small prize game in which the second large prize opening 128 is opened, the movable member 142 simultaneously opens the specific area 140b for a moment (approximately 0.1 seconds) and then maintains the specific area 140b in a closed state for a predetermined period of time, after which it is again maintained in an open state. Then, as shown in Figure 15(a), when special symbol a is determined and a small prize game is executed, the second large prize opening 128 is opened for only 0.1 seconds from the start of the small prize game (round game). During this time, it takes a predetermined time for the game ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 to reach the specific area 140b. Therefore, when a gaming ball that has entered the second large winning opening 128 reaches specific area 140b, specific area 140b is always closed. As a result, if special symbol a is determined and a small win game is executed, the gaming ball will not enter specific area 140b.

In the event of an unforeseen event, such as a gaming ball getting stuck in the second large winning opening 128 or a gaming ball becoming stuck in the second large winning opening 128 for an extended period of time for some reason, there is a possibility that the gaming ball will enter the specific area 140b even in a small jackpot game in which special symbol a is determined and executed. Therefore, for ease of understanding, this specification uses the words "always" and "certainly," but this is based on the assumption that the gaming machine 100 is in an appropriate state for gameplay and that no unforeseen events have occurred, and does not mean a physical 100% probability.

In contrast, as shown in Figure 15(b), if special patterns b and c are determined and a small jackpot game is executed, the second large prize opening 128 is opened a total of four times during the small jackpot game. Therefore, while a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 at the same time as the first opening of the second large prize opening 128 may not be able to enter the specific area 140b, a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 when the second large prize opening 128 is opened thereafter can reliably enter the specific area 140b. Although a detailed explanation is omitted, a structure that decelerates the gaming ball rolling over the second large prize opening 128 is provided above the second large prize opening 128. Therefore, if the gaming ball is launched appropriately into the second game area 116b from the start of the small jackpot game, the gaming ball will always enter the specific area 140b.

Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating a game state setting table for setting the game state after the end of a big role game in a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. In the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, when a big role game is executed, the game state after the end of the big role game is set according to the type of special symbol determined. According to this game state setting table, regardless of whether special symbol A, B, C, a, b, or c is determined, the game state is set to a time-saving game state after the end of the big role game.

In addition, when the game state is set to the time-saving game state, the number of times the time-saving game state will continue (hereinafter referred to as the "time-saving count") is set. Here, if special symbols A or a are selected, the time-saving count is set to 1, and if special symbols B, C, b, or c are selected, the time-saving count is set to 7. This means that the time-saving game state will continue until the big prize lottery result is confirmed once or seven times. However, the above-mentioned time-saving count indicates the maximum number of times the time-saving game state can continue in one time-saving game state. If a jackpot is won before the above-mentioned number of times continues is reached, the game state and the time-saving count will be set again. Therefore, when the time-saving game state is set after the end of a big prize game, if a jackpot lottery result is not derived in the time-saving game state and a miss or small prize lottery result is derived once or seven times, the game state will change to the non-time-saving game state.

Here, in the time-saving game state, the remaining number of times the time-saving play is performed is subtracted each time the result of the big role lottery is confirmed, and when the remaining number of times the time-saving play reaches 0, the game state changes to a non-time-saving game state. At this time, the number of times the time-saving play is performed is only subtracted when the result of the big role lottery based on the special 2 reserve is confirmed. In other words, after playing a big role, when the result of the big role lottery based on the special 2 reserve has been confirmed 1 or 7 times, the remaining number of times the time-saving play is performed becomes 0, and the game state changes to a non-time-saving game state.

Here, when the time-saving game mode is set, the number of time-saving times varies depending on the type of special symbol, but the same number of time-saving times may be set regardless of the type of special symbol. Here, the number of time-saving times is decremented only when the result of the big role lottery based on the special 2 reserved is confirmed, but the number of time-saving times may also be decremented when the result of the big role lottery based on the special 1 reserved is confirmed.

Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating a winning random number determination table for a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. When a gaming ball flowing down the gaming area 116 passes through the gate 124, a normal symbol determination process (hereinafter referred to as the "normal symbol lottery") is performed, which is associated with whether or not to control the energization of the movable piece 122b of the second starting port 122.

As will be explained in more detail later, when a gaming ball passes through gate 124, a winning determination random number from the range of 0 to 99 is obtained, and this random number value is stored in the normal map reserve memory area of main RAM 300c, up to a maximum of four. In other words, the normal map reserve memory area has four memory sections for saving winning determination random numbers. Therefore, if a gaming ball passes through gate 124 with winning determination random numbers stored in all four memory sections of the normal map reserve memory area, no winning determination random number will be stored based on the passage of that gaming ball. Hereinafter, a winning determination random number stored in the normal map reserve memory area after a gaming ball passes through gate 124 will be referred to as a normal map reserve.

When the regular symbol lottery is started in the non-time-saving play state, the win determination random number judgment table for the non-time-saving play state is referenced, as shown in Figure 17(a). According to this win determination random number judgment table for the non-time-saving play state, if the win determination random number is 0, a winning symbol is determined as the type of regular symbol, and if the win determination random number is 1 to 99, a losing symbol is determined as the type of regular symbol. Therefore, the probability of a winning symbol being determined in the non-time-saving play state, i.e., the probability of winning, is 1/100. As will be explained in more detail below, if a winning symbol is determined in this regular symbol lottery, the second start opening 122 is controlled to the open state, and if a losing symbol is determined, the second start opening 122 is maintained in the closed state.

In addition, when the regular symbol lottery begins in the time-saving play state, the time-saving play state win determination random number judgment table is referenced, as shown in Figure 17(b). According to this time-saving play state win determination random number judgment table, if the win determination random number is 0 to 98, a winning symbol is determined as the type of regular symbol, and if the win determination random number is 99, a losing symbol is determined as the type of regular symbol. Therefore, the probability of a winning symbol being determined in the time-saving play state, i.e., the probability of winning, is 99/100.

Figure 18(a) is a diagram explaining the normal symbol fluctuation time data table for a Type 1/Type 2 reference example, and Figure 18(b) is a diagram explaining the opening/closing control pattern table for a Type 1/Type 2 reference example. As described above, when a normal symbol lottery is held, the normal symbol fluctuation time is determined. The normal symbol fluctuation time data table is referenced when determining the normal symbol fluctuation time when a winning or losing symbol is determined by the normal symbol lottery. According to this normal symbol fluctuation time data table, if the game state is set to a non-time-saving game state, the fluctuation time is determined to be 10 seconds, and if the game state is set to a time-saving game state, the fluctuation time is determined to be 1 second. Once the fluctuation time is determined in this manner, the normal symbol display 168 displays a fluctuation (flashing display) for the determined time. If a winning symbol is determined, the normal symbol display 168 lights up, and if a losing symbol is determined, the normal symbol display 168 turns off.

When a winning symbol is determined by the normal symbol lottery and the normal symbol display 168 lights up, the movable piece 122b of the second starting hole 122 is controlled to energize by referring to the opening/closing control pattern table, as shown in Figure 18(b). In reality, an opening/closing control pattern table is provided for each game state, and depending on the game state when the normal symbol is determined, the corresponding table is set when the normal electric role solenoid 122c begins to energize. However, for the sake of explanation, a single table shows the control data corresponding to each game state.

When a winning pattern is determined, the second starting port 122 is controlled to open and close by referring to the opening and closing control pattern table, as shown in Figure 18 (b). According to this opening/closing control pattern table, the following control data is pre-stored for each game state as shown in the figure: time before normal power release (waiting time until the second start port 122 begins to open), maximum number of normal electric role opening/closing switches (number of times the second start port 122 is opened), solenoid energization time (powering time of the normal electric role solenoid 122c for each opening of the second start port 122, i.e., the opening time of the second start port 122 per time), specified number (maximum number of wins that can be made through the second start port 122 while it is fully open), normal power closing effective time (closing time between each opening of the second start port 122, i.e., pause time), normal power active state time (waiting time from the last opening of the second start port 122), and normal power end wait time (waiting time after the normal power active state time has elapsed until the variable display of the normal symbols, described below, resumes).

In this way, the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state are each associated with opening and closing control conditions for opening and closing the second start gate 122 as game progress conditions, and in the time-saving game state, it is easier for game balls to enter the second start gate 122 than in the non-time-saving game state. In other words, in the time-saving game state, as long as game balls pass through the gate 124, regular lotteries are held one after another, and the second start gate 122 is frequently opened, allowing the player to participate in big role lotteries while reducing the consumption of game balls.

The opening and closing conditions for the second start opening 122 stipulate three elements: the probability of winning a normal symbol, the duration of the normal symbol variable display, and the opening duration of the second start opening 122. In the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, two of these elements are set to be more advantageous for the time-saving game state than for the non-time-saving game state, making it easier for game balls to enter the second start opening 122 in the time-saving game state than in the non-time-saving game state. However, one or three of the three elements may be set to be more advantageous for the time-saving game state than the non-time-saving game state. In any case, by making the time-saving game state more advantageous than the non-time-saving game state in at least one element, it is possible to make it easier for game balls to enter the second start opening 122 overall in the time-saving game state than in the non-time-saving game state. In other words, when the gaming state is set to a non-time-saving gaming state, the movable piece 122b is controlled to open and close according to a first condition, and when the gaming state is set to a time-saving gaming state, the movable piece 122b is controlled to open and close according to a second condition that is more likely to open than the first condition.

Next, we will explain the main processing of the main control board 300 as the game progresses on the gaming machine 100.

Figure 19 is a diagram explaining the gaming machine status flag for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. In the main control board 300, the gaming machine status flag manages whether or not the game is in a state where it can proceed. The gaming machine status flag is set to one of six flag values between 00H and 05H. A gaming machine status flag value of 00H indicates a playable state. When the gaming machine status flag is 00H, the game is controlled to proceed, and when the gaming machine status flag is other than 00H, the game is stopped.

A flag value of 01H for the gaming machine status flag indicates a setting change state, and when the gaming machine status flag is 01H, it is possible to change the registered setting value. A flag value of 02H for the gaming machine status flag indicates a setting confirmation state, and when the gaming machine status flag is 02H, the registered setting value can be confirmed, for example by displaying it on the performance display monitor 184. A flag value of 03H for the gaming machine status flag indicates an abnormal setting state, and when the gaming machine status flag is 03H, the registered setting value is deemed abnormal and play is stopped. A flag value of 04H for the gaming machine status flag indicates a RAM abnormal state, and when the gaming machine status flag is 04H, play is stopped. A flag value of 05H for the gaming machine status flag indicates a checksum abnormal state, and when the gaming machine status flag is 05H, play is stopped. When the power is turned on, the gaming machine status flag is set to one of the flag values, and processing is performed according to the gaming machine status flag.

(CPU initialization process of main control board 300)
Figure 20 is a first flowchart explaining the CPU initialization processing in the main control board 300 relating to the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, and Figure 21 is a second flowchart explaining the CPU initialization processing in the main control board 300 relating to the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

When power is supplied from the power supply board, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 300a, and the main CPU 300a performs the following CPU initialization process (S100).

(Step S100-1)
When the power is turned on, the main CPU 300a reads a startup program from the main ROM 300b as an initial setting process, and also performs setting processes required to execute various processes.

(Step S100-3)
The main CPU 300a sets a wait processing time in a timer counter.

(Step S100-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether a power-off warning signal has been detected. The main control board 300 is provided with a power-off detection circuit, which outputs a power-off warning signal when the power supply voltage drops below a predetermined value. If a power-off warning signal has been detected, the process proceeds to step S100-3, and if a power-off warning signal has not been detected, the process proceeds to step S100-7.

(Step S100-7)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the wait time set in step S100-3 has elapsed. If it is determined that the wait time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S100-9. If it is determined that the wait time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S100-5.

(Step S100-9)
The main CPU 300a executes the processing required to permit access to the main RAM 300c.

(Step S100-11)
The main CPU 300a loads the flag value of the gaming machine status flag before the power is turned off into the D register.

(Step S100-13)
The main CPU 300a calculates the checksum and determines whether the calculated checksum matches the checksum saved at the time of power-off (is normal) and whether the backup flag is normal. If the main CPU 300a determines that the backup flag and checksum are normal, it proceeds to step S100-15. If it determines that either or both of them are abnormal, it proceeds to step S100-25.

(Step S100-15)
The main CPU 300a sets an address that does not include a setting value or a gaming machine status flag as the first address to be cleared in the main RAM 300c.

(Step S100-17)
The main CPU 300a determines whether a RAM clear operation signal has been input from the RAM clear switch 182s (whether the RAM clear button has been pressed). If it is determined that a RAM clear operation signal has been input, the process proceeds to step S100-31, and if it is determined that a RAM clear operation signal has not been input, the process proceeds to step S100-19.

(Step S100-19)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the flag value of the gaming machine status flag loaded in step S100-11 is 00H (playable state), the setting change switch 180s is on, and the middle frame 104 is open. If it determines that all three conditions are met, the process proceeds to step S100-21, and if it determines that any one of the three conditions is not met, the process proceeds to step S100-23.

(Step S100-21)
The main CPU 300a sets the gaming machine status flag to 02H (setting confirmation status). That is, when the power is turned on normally with the middle frame 104 open, the setting change switch 180s on, and the RAM clear button not pressed, the setting confirmation status is entered.

(Step S100-23)
The main CPU 300a executes initialization processing to clear the areas of the main RAM 300c that are to be cleared when the power is restored, which are areas after the top address set in step S100-15, and then proceeds to step S100-49.

(Step S100-25)
The main CPU 300a sets 05H (checksum abnormal state) in the D register.

(Step S100-27)
The main CPU 300a performs an outside area read/write check process that checks and clears the read/write memory in the unused area.

(Step S100-29)
The main CPU 300a sets an address including the setting value and the gaming machine status flag as the first address to be cleared in the main RAM 300c.

(Step S100-31)
The main CPU 300a checks and clears the read/write memory of the used area.

(Step S100-33)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the check result of the read/write memory in step S100-31 is normal. If it is determined to be normal, the process proceeds to step S100-37. If it is determined to be abnormal, the process proceeds to step S100-35.

(Step S100-35)
The main CPU 300a sets 04H (RAM abnormal state) in the D register and moves the process to step S100-45.

(Step S100-37)
The main CPU 300a determines whether 02H (setting confirmation state) is set in the D register. If it is determined that 02H is set, the process proceeds to step S100-39, and if it is determined that 02H is not set, the process proceeds to step S100-41.

(Step S100-39)
The main CPU 300a sets the D register to 00H (playable state).

(Step S100-41)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the setting change conditions are met. If it is determined that the setting change conditions are met, the process proceeds to step S100-43. If it is determined that the setting change conditions are not met, the process proceeds to step S100-45. Note that the setting change conditions here include at least the following: the setting change switch 180s is on, the middle frame 104 is open, and a RAM clear operation signal is input from the RAM clear switch 182s.

(Step S100-43)
The main CPU 300a sets 01H (setting changed state) in the D register.

(Step S100-45)
The main CPU 300a saves the value set in the D register in the gaming machine status flag.

(Step S100-47)
The main CPU 300a executes initialization processing to clear the items in the main RAM 300c that are to be cleared when the RAM is cleared, and then proceeds to step S100-49.

(Step S100-49)
The main CPU 300a performs a transmission process (storing the RAM clear designation command in the transmission buffer) of a payout command (RAM clear designation command) to notify the payout control board 310 that the main RAM 300c has been cleared.

(Step S100-51)
The main CPU 300a loads the gaming machine status flag.

(Step S100-53)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the gaming machine status flag loaded in step S100-51 is 00H (playable state). If it is determined that the flag is 00H, the process proceeds to step S110. If it is determined that the flag is not 00H, the process proceeds to step S100-55.

(Step S110)
The main CPU 300a performs a sub-command group set process, which will be described later.

(Step S100-55)
The main CPU 300 a performs sub-command set processing for transmitting a predetermined command to the sub-control board 330 .

(Step S100-57)
The main CPU 300a sets the timer interrupt period.

(Step S100-59)
The main CPU 300a performs processing to prohibit interrupts.

(Step S100-61)
The main CPU 300a updates the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number. The initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number is used to determine the initial value and the end value of the winning symbol random number. In other words, when the winning symbol random number goes through one cycle from the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number to the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number - 1 by the update process of the winning symbol random number described later, the winning symbol random number is updated to the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number at that time.

(Step S100-63)
The main CPU 300a analyzes the received data (main commands) received from the payout control board 310 and executes various processes according to the received data.

(Step S100-65)
The main CPU 300 a performs processing to transmit the sub-commands stored in the transmission buffer to the sub-control board 330 .

(Step S100-67)
The main CPU 300a performs processing to permit an interrupt.

(Step S100-69)
The main CPU 300a updates the reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variation pattern random number, and thereafter repeats the process from step S100-59. Note that, hereinafter, the reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variation pattern random number for determining the variation presentation pattern are collectively referred to as variation presentation random numbers.

Figure 22 is a flowchart explaining the subcommand group setting process (S110) on the main control board 300 in the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S110-1)
The main CPU 300a loads the flag value of the gaming machine status flag.

(Step S110-3)
The main CPU 300 a performs sub-command set processing for transmitting a predetermined command to the sub-control board 330 .

(Step S110-5)
The main CPU 300a performs a model command setting process to set a model command indicating model information of the gaming machine 100 in a transmission buffer.

(Step S110-7)
The main CPU 300a performs a setting value designation command setting process to set a setting value designation command indicating a registered setting value in a transmission buffer.

(Step S110-9)
The main CPU 300a performs a special chart 1 reservation designation command setting process that sets a special chart 1 reservation designation command indicating the special chart 1 reservation number in the transmission buffer.

(Step S110-11)
The main CPU 300a performs a special chart 2 reservation designation command setting process that sets a special chart 2 reservation designation command indicating the special chart 2 reservation number in the transmission buffer.

(Step S110-13)
The main CPU 300a performs a count command setting process to set a count command indicating the remaining number of times in the time-shortened gaming state in a transmission buffer.

(Step S110-15)
The main CPU 300a performs a variation pattern selection state designation command setting process to set a variation pattern selection state designation command indicating the variation pattern selection state in a transmission buffer.

(Step S110-17)
The main CPU 300a performs a special game phase designation command setting process to set a special game phase designation command indicating a special game management phase in a transmission buffer. The special game management phase will be described later.

(Step S110-19)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the special game management phase is in a special symbol change waiting state. If it is determined that the special symbol change waiting state is in effect, the process proceeds to step S110-21, and if it is determined that the special symbol change waiting state is not in effect, the sub-command group set process ends.

(Step S110-21)
The main CPU 300a sets the customer waiting designation command in the transmission buffer and ends the sub-command group setting process.

Next, we will explain the interrupt processing on the main control board 300. Here, we will explain the power-off backup processing (XINT interrupt processing) and timer interrupt processing.

(Main Control Board 300 Power-Off Evacuation Process (XINT Interrupt Process))
23 is a flowchart illustrating the power-off save process (XINT interrupt process) in the main control board 300 according to the first and second class reference example. The main CPU 300a monitors the power-off detection circuit, and when the power supply voltage drops below a predetermined value, it interrupts the CPU initialization process and executes the power-off save process.

(Step S300-1)
When the power-off warning signal is input, the main CPU 300a saves the registers.

(Step S300-3)
The main CPU 300a checks the power-off warning signal.

(Step S300-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether a power-off warning signal has been detected. If it is determined that a power-off warning signal has been detected, the process proceeds to step S300-11. If it is determined that a power-off warning signal has not been detected, the process proceeds to step S300-7.

(Step S300-7)
The main CPU 300a restores the register.

(Step S300-9)
The main CPU 300a performs processing to permit an interrupt, and then ends the power-off save processing.

(Step S300-11)
The main CPU 300a executes an output port clear process to stop the output of the output port.

(Step S300-13)
The main CPU 300a executes a checksum setting process that calculates and stores a checksum.

(Step S300-15)
The main CPU 300a executes RAM protection setting processing required to prohibit access to the main RAM 300c.

(Step S300-17)
The main CPU 300a sets the counter value of the loop counter to the predetermined number of times the power interruption detection signal has been detected, in order to set the power interruption occurrence monitoring time.

(Step S300-19)
The main CPU 300a checks the power-off warning signal.

(Step S300-21)
The main CPU 300a determines whether a power-off warning signal has been detected. If it is determined that a power-off warning signal has been detected, the process proceeds to step S300-17. If it is determined that a power-off warning signal has not been detected, the process proceeds to step S300-23.

(Step S300-23)
The main CPU 300a subtracts one from the value of the loop counter set in step S300-17.

(Step S300-25)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the loop counter is 0. If it is determined that the counter value is not 0, the process proceeds to step S300-19, and if it is determined that the counter value is 0, the process proceeds to the CPU initialization process (step S100) described above.

If a power outage actually occurs, operation of the gaming machine 100 will stop while steps S300-17 to S300-25 are looping.

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board 300)
24 is a flowchart illustrating the timer interrupt process in the main control board 300 according to the first-class, second-class reference example. The main control board 300 is provided with a reset clock pulse generating circuit that generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (4 milliseconds in the first-class, second-class reference example, hereinafter referred to as "4 ms"). When the reset clock pulse generating circuit generates a clock pulse, it interrupts the CPU initialization process (step S100) and executes the following timer interrupt process.

(Step S400-1)
The main CPU 300a saves the registers.

(Step S400-3)
The main CPU 300a performs processing to permit an interrupt.

(Step S400-5)
The main CPU 300a outputs the common data set in the common output buffer to the output port and executes dynamic port output processing that controls the lighting of the first special pattern display 160, the second special pattern display 162, the first special pattern reserved display 164, the second special pattern reserved display 166, the normal pattern display 168, the normal pattern reserved display 170, the right hit notification display 172, and the performance display monitor 184.

(Step S400-7)
The main CPU 300a reads various types of input port information and executes port input processing to accurately obtain the latest switch status.

(Step S400-9)
The main CPU 300a loads the flag value of the gaming machine status flag.

(Step S400-11)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the flag value loaded in step S400-9 is 00H (playable state). If it is determined that the flag value is 00H, the process proceeds to step S400-15. If it is determined that the flag value is not 00H, the process proceeds to step S400-13.

(Step S400-13)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the flag value loaded in step S400-9 is equal to or greater than 03H (abnormal setting state). If it is determined that the flag value is equal to or greater than 03H, the process proceeds to step S400-27. If it is determined that the flag value is not equal to or greater than 03H, the process proceeds to step S450.

(Step S450)
The main CPU 300a executes the setting-related processing and moves the process to step S400-27, which will be described later.

(Step S400-15)
The main CPU 300a performs a timer update process to update various timer counters. Here, unless otherwise specified, the timer counters are decremented each time the main control board 300 executes timer interrupt processing, and the decrement stops when the timer counter reaches 0.

(Step S400-17)
The main CPU 300a executes the update process of the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number, similar to the above step S100-61.

(Step S400-19)
The main CPU 300a performs a process to update the winning symbol random number. Specifically, the random number counter is updated by adding 1, and if the result of the addition exceeds the maximum value of the random number range, the random number counter is reset to 0, and if the random number counter has completed one cycle, the random number is updated from the value of the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number at that time.

Although a detailed explanation will be omitted, in the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, the jackpot determination random number and the winning determination random number are hardware random numbers updated by a hardware random number generator built into the main control board 300. The hardware random number generator updates both the jackpot determination random number and the winning determination random number according to certain rules, automatically changing the random number sequence each time the random number sequence completes one cycle, and changing the start value each time the system is reset.

(Step S500)
The main CPU 300a executes a switch management process to determine whether or not a signal has been input from the first start hole detection switch 120s, the second start hole detection switch 122s, the gate detection switch 124s, the first large prize hole detection switch 126s, the second large prize hole detection switch 128s, the specific area detection switch 140s, and the out ball detection switch 130s. Details of this switch management process will be described later.

(Step S600)
The main CPU 300a executes a special game management process for controlling the progress of the special games, the details of which will be described later.

(Step S700)
The main CPU 300a executes a normal game management process for controlling the progress of the normal game. Details of this normal game management process will be described later.

(Step S400-21)
The main CPU 300a executes error management processing to determine various errors and to make settings according to the error determination results.

(Step S400-23)
The main CPU 300a checks the general prize opening detection switch 118s, the first start opening detection switch 120s, the second start opening detection switch 122s, the first large prize opening detection switch 126s, and the second large prize opening detection switch 128s, and executes prize opening switch processing to increment the corresponding counters for prize ball control, etc.

(Step S400-25)
The main CPU 300a executes a payout control management process to create and send a payout command based on the counter value of the counter for prize ball control set in step S400-23.

(Step S400-27)
The main CPU 300a executes an external information management process for setting output data for external information to be output from the game information output terminal board 312 to the outside.

(Step S400-29)
The main CPU 300a executes an LED display setting process that sets display data for controlling the lighting of various indicators (LEDs), such as the first special pattern indicator 160, the second special pattern indicator 162, the first special pattern reserved indicator 164, the second special pattern reserved indicator 166, the normal pattern indicator 168, the normal pattern reserved indicator 170, and the right-hit notification indicator 172, in an output buffer corresponding to each common.

(Step S400-31)
The main CPU 300a executes a solenoid output image synthesis process to synthesize the solenoid output images of the normal electric device solenoid 122c, the first large prize opening solenoid 126c, the second large prize opening solenoid 128c and the movable member drive solenoid 142c and store them in an output port buffer.

(Step S400-33)
The main CPU 300a executes a port output process for outputting the values of the common output buffers stored in the respective output port buffers to the output ports.

(Step S400-35)
The main CPU 300a performs processing to prohibit interrupts.

(Step S400-37)
The main CPU 300a uses the unused area of the main RAM 300c to perform processing for calculating the base ratio to be displayed on the performance display monitor 184, and executes performance display monitor control processing for setting common data for displaying the calculated base ratio on the performance display monitor 184 in the common output buffer. In the performance display monitor control processing, the base ratio is calculated for each predetermined period. Here, the performance display monitor 184 may alternate between displaying the base ratio for the current period and the base ratio for the previous period at predetermined time intervals. Furthermore, the base ratio displayed on the performance display monitor 184 may be switched in response to a predetermined operation.

(Step S400-39)
The main CPU 300a restores the register and ends the timer interrupt process.

Figure 25 is a flowchart explaining the above-mentioned setting-related processing (S450) for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S450-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the flag value of the gaming machine status flag is 01H (setting change status). If it is determined that the flag value is 01H, the process proceeds to step S450-3. If it is determined that the flag value is not 01H, the process proceeds to step S450-15.

(Step S450-3)
The main CPU 300a loads the registered setting values stored in the setting value buffer into a predetermined processing area.

(Step S450-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the RAM clear switch 182s has been pressed (whether a RAM clear operation signal has been input). If it is determined that the RAM clear switch 182s has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S450-7, and if it is determined that the RAM clear switch 182s has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S450-9.

(Step S450-7)
The main CPU 300a adds 1 to the setting value of the processing area.

(Step S450-9)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the setting value of the processing area is in the range of 1 to 6. If it is determined that the setting value is in the range of 1 to 6, the process proceeds to step S450-13, and if it is determined that the setting value is not in the range of 1 to 6, the process proceeds to step S450-11.

(Step S450-11)
The main CPU 300a sets the setting value of the processing area to 1.

(Step S450-13)
The main CPU 300a sets the setting value of the processing area in the setting value buffer.

(Step S450-15)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the setting change switch 180s is on. If it is determined that the setting change switch 180s is on, the setting-related processing ends, but if it is determined that the setting change switch 180s is not on, the processing proceeds to step S450-17.

(Step S450-17)
The main CPU 300a sets a setting-related end designation command indicating the end of the setting-related processing in the transmission buffer.

(Step S110)
The main CPU 300a executes the sub-command group set process of Fig. 22. That is, when the setting-related process is executed, at the end of the process, the model command, setting value designation command, special chart 1 reservation designation command, special chart 2 reservation designation command, number of times command, variation pattern selection state designation command, special chart phase designation command, and customer waiting designation command are transmitted to the sub-control board 330.

(Step S450-19)
The main CPU 300a sets the gaming machine status flag to 00H (playable status) and ends the setting-related processing.

As described above, according to the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example, when the power is turned on normally with the middle frame 104 open, the setting change switch 180s on, and the RAM clear button pressed, the gaming machine status flag is set to 01H (setting change state) during the CPU initialization process (Figure 20). After that, the timer interrupt process is executed, but because the gaming machine status flag is set to 01H (setting change state), all processing related to the progress of the game (steps S400-15 to S400-25 in Figure 24) is stopped, and setting-related processing is executed.

The setting-related process is repeatedly executed while the setting change switch 180s is on, and during this setting-related process, pressing the RAM clear button is accepted as a setting change operation for the registered setting value. In other words, during the setting change process (S450-1 to S450-13) that accepts setting change operations, the registered setting value stored in the setting value buffer is switched to one of multiple setting values in response to the setting change operation.

When the setting change switch 180s is switched off while the gaming machine status flag is set to 01H (setting change state), the setting change process ends and the gaming machine status flag is set to 00H (playable state). This allows processing related to game progress to be executed starting with the next timer interrupt process.

Here, in the setting-related processing for the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example, after the RAM clear button is pressed, i.e., after the acceptance of the setting change operation for the registered setting value has finished, a setting value designation command corresponding to the registered setting value is sent to the sub-control board 330 in the sub-command group set processing. On the other hand, while the setting change operation is being accepted, the setting value designation command is not sent to the sub-control board 330. In this way, while the setting change operation is being accepted, the setting value designation command is not sent, and when the acceptance of the setting change operation has finished and the game has transitioned to a state where it is possible to proceed, the risk of the registered setting value being obtained fraudulently can be reduced by sending the setting value designation command.

Furthermore, in the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, multiple flag values, including at least 01H (setting change state), are switched. When the gaming machine state flag is set to 01H (setting change state), setting-related processing can be executed and game progress is stopped. In this way, setting-related processing is not executed while game play is in progress, and setting value specification commands are not sent while game play is in progress, reducing the risk of registered setting values being obtained fraudulently.

Next, we will provide a detailed explanation of the timer interrupt processing described above, including the switch management processing in step S500, the special game management processing in step S600, and the regular game management processing in step S700.

Figure 26 is a flowchart explaining the switch management process (step S500) on the main control board 300 in the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S500-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the gate detection switch is on, that is, whether the game ball has passed through the gate 124 and the detection signal from the gate detection switch 124s has been turned on. If it is determined that the gate detection switch is on, the process proceeds to step S510, and if it is determined that the gate detection switch is not on, the process proceeds to step S500-3.

(Step S510)
The main CPU 300a executes gate passing processing based on the passage of the gaming ball through the gate 124. Details of this gate passing processing will be described later.

(Step S500-3)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the first start hole detection switch is on, that is, whether a game ball has entered the first start hole 120 and a detection signal has been input from the first start hole detection switch 120s. If it is determined that the first start hole detection switch is on, the process proceeds to step S520, and if it is determined that the first start hole detection switch is not on, the process proceeds to step S500-5.

(Step S520)
The main CPU 300a executes first start hole passage processing based on the entry of the gaming ball into the first start hole 120. Details of this first start hole passage processing will be described later.

(Step S500-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the second start hole detection switch is on, that is, whether a game ball has entered the second start hole 122 and a detection signal has been input from the second start hole detection switch 122s. If it is determined that the second start hole detection switch is on, the process proceeds to step S530, and if it is determined that the second start hole detection switch is not on, the process proceeds to step S500-7.

(Step S530)
The main CPU 300a executes second start hole passage processing based on the entry of the gaming ball into the second start hole 122. Details of this second start hole passage processing will be described later.

(Step S500-7)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the large prize opening detection switch is on, that is, whether a game ball has entered the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 and a detection signal has been input from the first large prize opening detection switch 126s and the second large prize opening detection switch 128s. If it is determined that the large prize opening detection switch is on, the process proceeds to step S500-9, and if it is determined that the large prize opening detection switch is not on, the process proceeds to step S500-11.

(Step S500-9)
The main CPU 300a determines whether a big win game or a small win game is currently in progress, and determines whether the game balls have entered the first large win port 126 and the second large win port 128 properly. If it determines that a big win game or a small win game is not in progress, it executes a predetermined fraud detection process, and if it determines that a big win game or a small win game is in progress and the game balls have entered the first large win port 126 and the second large win port 128 properly, it increments the large win port winning ball counter by 1 and sets a large win port winning designation command in the transmission buffer.

(Step S500-11)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the specific area detection switch is on, that is, whether the gaming ball has entered the specific area 140b and a detection signal has been input from the specific area detection switch 140s. If it is determined that the specific area detection switch is on, the process proceeds to step S540, and if it is determined that the specific area detection switch is not on, the process proceeds to step S500-13.

(Step S540)
The main CPU 300a executes a specific area passing process based on the entry of the gaming ball into the specific area 140b, and ends the switch management process. The specific area passing process will be described in detail later.

(Step S500-13)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the general winning opening detection switch is on, that is, whether a game ball has entered the general winning opening 118 and a detection signal has been input from the general winning opening detection switch 118s. If it is determined that the general winning opening detection switch is on, the process proceeds to step S500-15, and if it is determined that the general winning opening detection switch is not on, the process proceeds to step S500-17.

(Step S500-15)
The main CPU 300a sets the general prize slot winning designation command in the transmission buffer.

(Step S500-17)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the out ball detection switch is on, i.e., whether a detection signal has been input from the out ball detection switch 130s. If it is determined that the out ball detection switch is on, the process proceeds to step S500-19, and if it is determined that the out ball detection switch is not on, the switch management process is terminated.

(Step S500-19)
The main CPU 300a sets the out ball detection designation command in the transmission buffer and terminates the switch management process.

Figure 27 is a flowchart explaining the gate passage process (step S510) on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S510-1)
The main CPU 300a loads the winning determination random number updated by the hardware random number generator.

(Step S510-3)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the normal symbol reserved ball counter is equal to or greater than the maximum value, that is, whether the counter value of the normal symbol reserved ball counter is equal to or greater than 4. As a result, if it is determined that the counter value of the normal symbol reserved ball counter is equal to or greater than the maximum value, the gate passing process is terminated, and if it is determined that the normal symbol reserved ball counter is not equal to or greater than the maximum value, the process proceeds to step S510-5.

(Step S510-5)
The main CPU 300a updates the counter value of the normal symbol reserved ball number counter to a value obtained by adding "1" to the current counter value.

(Step S510-7)
The main CPU 300a determines which of the four memory sections in the general reserve memory area is the target memory section in which to save the acquired winning determination random number.

(Step S510-9)
The main CPU 300a saves the winning determination random number obtained in step S510-1 in the target memory calculated in step S510-7.

(Step S510-11)
The main CPU 300a sets a general map reservation designation command indicating the number of general map reservations stored in the general map reservation memory area in the transmission buffer, and terminates the gate passing process.

Figure 28 is a flowchart explaining the first start port passage process (step S520) on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S520-1)
The main CPU 300a sets "00H" as the special symbol identification value. The special symbol identification value is used to identify whether the reserved type is special 1 reserved or special 2 reserved, and the special symbol identification value (00H) indicates special 1 reserved, and the special symbol identification value (01H) indicates special 2 reserved.

(Step S520-3)
The main CPU 300a sets the address of the special pattern 1 reserved ball number counter.

(Step S535)
The main CPU 300a executes the special symbol random number acquisition process and ends the first start gate passing process. Note that this special symbol random number acquisition process is executed using a module common to the second start gate passing process (step S530). Therefore, details of the special symbol random number acquisition process will be explained after the explanation of the second start gate passing process.

Figure 29 is a flowchart explaining the second start port passage process (step S530) on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S530-1)
The main CPU 300a sets "01H" as the special symbol identification value.

(Step S530-3)
The main CPU 300a sets the address of the special pattern 2 reserved ball number counter.

(Step S535)
The main CPU 300a executes the special symbol random number acquisition process described later.

(Step S530-5)
The main CPU 300a loads the normal game management phase. Note that, as will be described in detail later, the normal game management phase indicates the stage of the normal game execution process, i.e., the progress status of the normal game, and is updated according to the stage of the normal game execution process.

(Step S530-7)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the normal game management phase loaded in step S530-5 is "04H." The normal game management phase "04H" indicates that the normal electric device prize opening control process is in progress. In this normal electric device prize opening control process, the normal electric device solenoid 122c is energized and the movable piece 122b is controlled to an open state, so here, it is determined whether the second start opening 122 is in a state in which it can be properly opened. If it is determined that the normal game management phase is not "04H," the second start opening passage process is terminated. If it is determined that the normal game management phase is "04H," the process proceeds to step S530-9.

(Step S530-9)
The main CPU 300a updates the counter value of the normal electric device winning ball count counter to a value obtained by adding "1" to the current counter value, and ends the second starting port passage process.

Figure 30 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol random number acquisition process (step S535) on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This special symbol random number acquisition process is executed using a module common to the first start gate passing process (step S520) and the second start gate passing process (step S530) described above.

(Step S535-1)
The main CPU 300a loads the special symbol identification value set in step S520-1 or step S530-1.

(Step S535-3)
The main CPU 300a loads the number of reserved balls for the target special symbol. Here, if the special symbol identification value loaded in the above step S535-1 is "00H", the counter value of the special symbol 1 reserved ball number counter, i.e., the special 1 reserved number, is loaded. Also, if the special symbol identification value loaded in the above step S535-1 is "01H", the counter value of the special symbol 2 reserved ball number counter, i.e., the special 2 reserved number, is loaded.

(Step S535-5)
The main CPU 300a loads the jackpot determination random number updated by the hardware random number generator.

(Step S535-7)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the number of reserved balls for the target special symbol loaded in step S535-3 is equal to or greater than the upper limit. If it is determined that the number is equal to or greater than the upper limit, the process proceeds to step S535-23. If it is determined that the number is not equal to or greater than the upper limit, the process proceeds to step S535-9.

(Step S535-9)
The main CPU 300a updates the counter value of the target special symbol reserved ball count counter to a value obtained by adding "1" to the current counter value.

(Step S535-11)
The main CPU 300a determines which of the eight memory sections in the special chart reserve memory area is the target memory section in which to save the acquired jackpot determination random number.

(Step S535-13)
The main CPU 300a obtains the jackpot determination random number loaded in step S535-5, the winning pattern random number updated in step S400-19, the reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variation pattern random number updated in step S100-69, and stores them in the target memory unit calculated in step S535-11.

(Step S535-15)
The main CPU 300a performs a special symbol reserved ball winning order setting process to update and store the winning order of the special 1 reserved and special 2 reserved balls stored in the special symbol reserved storage area.

(Step S536)
The main CPU 300a executes the acquisition time effect determination process based on the various random numbers stored in the target memory unit in step S535-13. In this acquisition time effect determination process, the newly stored special 1 reserve or special 2 reserve will determine the big role lottery results and information related to the execution mode of the variable effect at the time when the special 1 reserve or special 2 reserve is stored. Details of this acquisition time effect determination process will be described later.

(Step S535-19)
The main CPU 300a loads the counter values of the special symbol 1 reserved ball number counter and the special symbol 2 reserved ball number counter.

(Step S535-21)
The main CPU 300a sets the special symbol reservation command in the transmission buffer based on the counter value loaded in step S535-19. Here, the special symbol 1 reservation command is set based on the counter value of the special symbol 1 reservation ball counter (special symbol 1 reservation number), and the special symbol 2 reservation command is set based on the counter value of the special symbol 2 reservation ball counter (special symbol 2 reservation number). As a result, each time a special symbol 1 reservation or special symbol 2 reservation is stored, the special symbol 1 reservation number and the special symbol 2 reservation number are transmitted to the sub-control board 330.

(Step S535-23)
The main CPU 300a loads the normal game management phase.

(Step S535-25)
The main CPU 300a checks the normal game management phase loaded in step S535-23 and determines whether it is below the normal electric device winning opening control state described later. If it is determined that it is below the normal electric device winning opening control state, the process proceeds to step S535-27, and if it is determined that it is not below the normal electric device winning opening control state, the special symbol random number acquisition process is terminated.

(Step S535-27)
The main CPU 300a determines whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred, and if it determines that an abnormal winning has occurred, executes a start port abnormal winning error process to perform a predetermined process, and ends the special pattern random number acquisition process (step S535).

Figure 31 is a flowchart explaining the acquisition-time performance determination process (step S536) on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S536-1)
The main CPU 300a selects a corresponding jackpot determination random number judgment table based on the setting value being set. Specifically, if the stored reserve is a special 1 reserve, one of the corresponding special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment tables (see Figures 6(a) to 6(f)) is selected based on the setting value being set. Also, if the stored reserve is a special 2 reserve, one of the corresponding special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment tables (see Figures 7(a) to 7(f)) is selected based on the setting value being set. Then, based on the selected table and the jackpot determination random number stored in the target memory unit in step S535-13, a special symbol win provisional judgment process is performed to provisionally judge whether it is a jackpot, a small win, or a miss.

(Step S536-3)
The main CPU 300a executes a special symbol provisional determination process to provisionally determine a special symbol. Here, if the result of the provisional big win lottery in step S536-1 (the result derived by the special symbol provisional win determination process) is a big win or a small win, the winning symbol random number, winning type (whether it is a big win or a small win), and reserved type stored in the target memory unit in step S535-13 are loaded, the corresponding winning symbol random number determination table (see FIG. 8) is selected to extract special symbol determination data, and the extracted special symbol determination data (type of big win symbol or small win symbol) is saved. Also, if the result of the provisional big win lottery in step S536-1 is a loss, a predetermined special symbol determination data for a loss (type of loss symbol) is saved.

(Step S536-5)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer a look-ahead symbol type designation command (look-ahead designation command) corresponding to the special symbol determination data saved in step S536-3.

(Step S536-7)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the result derived by the special symbol provisional win determination process in step S536-1 is a big win or a small win. If it is determined to be a big win or a small win, the process proceeds to step S536-9, and if it is determined to be neither a big win nor a small win (a miss), the process proceeds to step S536-11.

(Step S536-9)
The main CPU 300a sets the random number judgment table for determining the reach mode at the time of a big win (see Figures 10(b) and (c)) or the random number judgment table for determining the reach mode at the time of a small win (see Figures 10(d) and (e)), and proceeds to step S536-19.

(Step S536-11)
The main CPU 300a loads the reach group determination random number stored in the target storage unit in step S535-13.

(Step S536-13)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the reach group determination random number loaded in step S536-11 is a fixed value (8500 or greater). Here, the group type is determined by reference to a reach group determination random number determination table, and this reach group determination random number determination table is selected according to the stored number of reserved positions. At this time, the reach group determination random number is acquired from a range of 0 to 10006. If the value of the reach group determination random number is 8500 or greater, the same reach group determination random number determination table is selected regardless of the number of reserved positions. If the value of the reach group determination random number is less than 8500, a different reach group determination random number determination table is selected depending on the number of reserved positions. Hereinafter, among the reach group determination random numbers, values in the range of 0 to 8499, which select different reach group determination random number determination tables depending on the number of reserved positions, are referred to as indefinite values, and values in the range of 8500 to 10006, which select the same reach group determination random number determination table regardless of the number of reserved positions, are referred to as fixed values. If it is determined that the reach group determination random number loaded in step S536-11 is a fixed value (8500 or more), processing proceeds to step S536-15; if it is determined that the reach group determination random number loaded in step S536-11 is not a fixed value (8500 or more), processing proceeds to step S536-27.

(Step S536-15)
The main CPU 300a sets a reach group determination random number judgment table (see FIG. 9). Note that there are multiple types of reach group determination random number judgment tables provided depending on the number of reserved positions, but here, a table to be used when the number of reserved positions is 0 is selected. Then, a reach group (group type) is provisionally determined based on the set reach group determination random number judgment table and the reach group determination random number stored in the target memory unit in step S535-13.

(Step S536-17)
The main CPU 300a sets the random number judgment table for determining the reach mode when losing (see FIG. 10(a)) corresponding to the group type provisionally determined in step S536-15, and moves the process to step S536-19.

(Step S536-19)
The main CPU 300a provisionally determines a fluctuation mode number based on the reach mode determination random number judgment table set in the above step S536-9 or step S536-17 and the reach mode determination random number stored in the target memory unit in the above step S535-13. Here, a fluctuation pattern random number judgment table is provisionally determined together with the fluctuation mode number.

(Step S536-21)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer a look-ahead designation variable mode command (look-ahead designation command) corresponding to the variable mode number provisionally determined in step S536-19.

(Step S536-23)
The main CPU 300a provisionally determines a fluctuation pattern number based on the fluctuation pattern random number determination table provisionally determined in the above step S536-19 and the fluctuation pattern random number stored in the target memory unit in the above step S535-13.

(Step S536-25)
The main CPU 300a sets the look-ahead specified variable pattern command (look-ahead specified command) corresponding to the variable pattern number provisionally determined in the above step S536-23 in the transmission buffer, and terminates the performance determination process at the time of acquisition.

(Step S536-27)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer an indefinite value command (pre-read specified variable mode command and pre-read specified variable pattern command = 7FH) indicating that the group type, i.e., the variable presentation pattern, will change depending on the number of holds when the hold is read out for the hold newly stored in the target memory unit, and terminates the presentation determination process at the time of acquisition.

Figure 32 is a flowchart explaining the specific area passing process in step S540 described above for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S540-1)
If the main CPU 300a determines in step S500-11 that the specific area detection switch has been turned on, it determines whether the valid period flag is on. If it determines that the valid period flag is on, it proceeds to step S540-3, and if it determines that the valid period flag is not on, it proceeds to step S540-9.

As will be explained in more detail later, this validity period flag is used to determine whether or not the entry of a gaming ball into the specific area 140b is considered valid, and in the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, it is turned on at the start of a small win game (first round of play).

(Step S540-3)
If it is determined in step S540-1 that the valid period flag is on, the main CPU 300a determines whether the specific area entry flag is on. The specific area entry flag identifies that the gaming ball has already validly entered the specific area 140b. If it is determined that the specific area entry flag is on, the specific area passing process is terminated, and if it is determined that the specific area entry flag is not on, the process proceeds to step S540-5.

(Step S540-5)
The main CPU 300a turns on the specific area entry flag.

(Step S540-7)
The main CPU 300a sets a specific area entry command in the transmission buffer to notify the sub-control board 330 that the gaming ball has validly entered the specific area 140b, and ends the specific area passing process.

(Step S540-9)
The main CPU 300a executes a predetermined error process.

(Step S540-11)
The main CPU 300a sets an error command indicating that an error has been detected in the transmission buffer, and ends the specific area passing process.

Figure 33 is a diagram illustrating the special game management phase for the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example. As already explained, in the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example, a special game triggered by a game ball entering the first start gate 120 or the second start gate 122, and a regular game triggered by a game ball passing through the gate 124, proceed simultaneously in parallel. Processing related to special games is executed in stages and repeatedly, and the main control board 300 manages each process related to these special games using the special game management phase.

As shown in Figure 33, the main ROM 300b stores multiple special game control modules for controlling the execution of special games, and each of these special game control modules is associated with a special game management phase. Specifically, if the special game management phase is "00H", a module for executing "special symbol change waiting processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "01H", a module for executing "special symbol change processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "02H", a module for executing "special symbol stop pattern display processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "03H" or "07H", a module for executing "large prize opening pre-processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "04H" or "08H", a module for executing "large prize opening control processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "05H" or "09H", a module for executing "large prize opening closure valid processing" is called; and if the special game management phase is "06H" or "0AH", a module for executing "large prize opening end wait processing" is called.

Figure 34 is a flowchart explaining the special game management process (step S600) on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S600-1)
The main CPU 300a loads the special game management phase.

(Step S600-3)
The main CPU 300a selects the special game control module corresponding to the special game management phase loaded in step S600-1.

(Step S600-5)
The main CPU 300a calls the special game control module selected in step S600-3 and starts processing.

(Step S600-7)
The main CPU 300a loads a special game timer that manages the control time of the special game, and ends the special game management process.

Figure 35 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol change waiting process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This special symbol change waiting process is executed when the special game management phase is "00H".

(Step S610-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the special symbol 2 reserved ball counter, that is, the special 2 reserved number (X2), is equal to or greater than 1. As a result, if it is determined that the special 2 reserved number (X2) is equal to or greater than 1, the process proceeds to step S610-7, and if it is determined that the special 2 reserved number (X2) is not equal to or greater than 1, the process proceeds to step S610-3.

(Step S610-3)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the special symbol 1 reserved ball counter, that is, the special 1 reserved number (X1), is equal to or greater than 1. As a result, if it is determined that the special 1 reserved number (X1) is equal to or greater than 1, the process proceeds to step S610-7, and if it is determined that the special 1 reserved number (X1) is not equal to or greater than 1, the process proceeds to step S610-5.

(Step S610-5)
The main CPU 300a sets the customer waiting command in the transmission buffer, executes a customer waiting setting process to set the machine to a customer waiting state, and ends the special symbol change waiting process.

(Step S610-7)
The main CPU 300a block-transfers the special 2 reserves stored in the first to fourth storage sections of the second special symbol reserve storage area, or the special 1 reserves stored in the first to fourth storage sections of the first special symbol reserve storage area, to a storage section with a smaller ordinal number by one. Specifically, in the above step S610-1, if it is determined that the number of special symbol 2 reserved balls is "1" or more, the special 2 reserves stored in the second to fourth storage sections of the second special symbol reserve storage area are transferred to the first to third storage sections. In addition, the main RAM 300c is provided with a 0th storage section to be processed, and the special 2 reserve stored in the 1st storage section is block-transferred to the 0th storage section. Also, in the above step S610-3, if it is determined that the number of reserved balls for special symbol 1 is "1" or more, the special symbol 1 reserved balls stored in the second to fourth storage units of the first special symbol reserved storage area are transferred to the first to third storage units, and the special symbol 1 reserved balls stored in the first storage unit are block-transferred to the 0th storage unit. In addition, in this special symbol storage area shift process, the counter value of the target special symbol reserved ball number counter corresponding to the reserved type transferred to the 0th storage unit is subtracted by "1", and a reserved reduction designation command indicating that the special symbol 1 reserved or special symbol 2 reserved has been subtracted by "1" is set in the transmission buffer.

(Step S611)
The main CPU 300a executes a special symbol winning determination process for drawing a big prize. This special symbol winning determination process will be described later.

(Step S610-11)
The main CPU 300a executes a special symbol determination process to determine the special symbol. Here, if the determination information (the result of the major role lottery) stored in step S611 is a big win or a small win, the winning type (whether it is a big win or a small win) and the reserved type are loaded, and the corresponding winning symbol random number determination table is set. Then, the set winning symbol random number determination table is referenced, and special symbol determination data is extracted using the winning symbol random number transferred to the 0th memory unit, and the extracted special symbol determination data (type of big win symbol or small win symbol) is saved. On the other hand, if the result of the major role lottery stored in step S611 is a loss, if the reserved type is special 1 reserved, special symbol X is saved as the losing symbol, and if the reserved type is special 2 reserved, special symbol Y is saved as the losing symbol. Here, a symbol type designation command corresponding to the saved special symbol determination data is set in the transmission buffer.

(Step S610-13)
The main CPU 300a saves the special symbol stop symbol number corresponding to the special symbol determination data extracted in step S610-11. Note that the first special symbol display 160 and the second special symbol display 162 are each composed of 7 segments, and each segment constituting the 7 segments is assigned a number (counter value). The special symbol stop symbol number determined here indicates the number (counter value) of the segment that will ultimately be lit.

(Step S612)
The main CPU 300a executes a special symbol variable number determination process to determine a variable mode number and a variable pattern number. The details of this special symbol variable number determination process will be described later.

(Step S610-15)
The main CPU 300a loads the fluctuation mode number and fluctuation pattern number determined in step S612, and refers to the fluctuation time determination table to determine fluctuation time 1 and fluctuation time 2. Then, the total time of the determined fluctuation times 1 and 2 is set in the special symbol fluctuation timer.

(Step S610-17)
The main CPU 300a performs a reserve area setting process to store the game status when the big role lottery is executed in a game status buffer, etc. In addition, in this reserve area setting process, when the result of the big role lottery is a jackpot, game status information to be set after the big role game, the type of jackpot symbol (special symbol determination data), etc. are stored in the reserve area of the main RAM 300c.

(Step S610-19)
The main CPU 300a executes a process of setting a special symbol display symbol counter in order to start the variable display of special symbols in the first special symbol display 160 or the second special symbol display 162. A counter value is associated with each of the 7-segment segments constituting the first special symbol display 160 and the second special symbol display 162, and the segment corresponding to the counter value set in the special symbol display symbol counter is controlled to light up. Here, the counter value corresponding to the segment to be lit when the variable display of the special symbol starts is set in the special symbol display symbol counter. Note that the special symbol display symbol counter is provided separately as a special symbol 1 display symbol counter corresponding to the first special symbol display 160 and a special symbol 2 display symbol counter corresponding to the second special symbol display 162, and here, a counter value is set in the counter corresponding to the hold type.

(Step S610-21)
The main CPU 300a loads the counter values of the special symbol 1 reserved ball counter and the special symbol 2 reserved ball counter and sets the special symbol reserved command in the transmission buffer. Here, the special symbol 1 reserved command is set based on the counter value of the special symbol 1 reserved ball counter (special symbol 1 reserved number), and the special symbol 2 reserved command is set based on the counter value of the special symbol 2 reserved ball counter (special symbol 2 reserved number). Also, here, the special symbol winning order command corresponding to the winning order of the special symbol 1 reserved and special symbol 2 reserved stored in step S610-7 above is set in the transmission buffer. As a result, each time the special symbol 1 reserved or special symbol 2 reserved is consumed, the number of special symbol 1 reserved and special symbol 2 reserved, as well as the winning order of each reserved symbol, are transmitted to the sub-control board 330.

(Step S610-23)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "01H" and ends the special symbol change waiting process.

Figure 36 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol winning determination process (S611) for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S611-1)
The main CPU 300a loads the registered setting values in the setting value buffer.

(Step S611-3)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the registered setting value loaded in step S611-1 is within the normal range. If it is determined that the value is within the normal range, the process proceeds to step S611-9. If it is determined that the value is not within the normal range, the process proceeds to step S611-5.

(Step S611-5)
The main CPU 300a sets the gaming machine status flag to 03H (setting abnormal status).

(Step S611-7)
The main CPU 300a sets the setting abnormality state command (sub-command) in the transmission buffer and ends the special symbol winning determination process. When this setting abnormality state command is transmitted to the sub-control board 330, a notification is issued that a setting abnormality has occurred.

(Step S611-9)
The main CPU 300a refers to the jackpot determination random number judgment table corresponding to the information loaded in step S611-1, and sets the lower and upper limits for determining whether a jackpot or a small jackpot has occurred.

(Step S611-11)
The main CPU 300a compares the jackpot determination random number transferred to the 0th memory unit with the above-mentioned lower limit value and upper limit value, and performs a determination process (major role lottery) to determine whether a jackpot or small jackpot has been won.

(Step S611-13)
The main CPU 300a sets the result of the determination process in step S611-11 as determination information, and ends the special symbol winning determination process.

Figure 37 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol variable number determination process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S612-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the result of the major role lottery in step S611 is a big win or a small win. If it is determined to be a big win or a small win, the process proceeds to step S612-3, and if it is determined to be neither a big win nor a small win (a miss), the process proceeds to step S612-5.

(Step S612-3)
The main CPU 300a sets a reach mode determination random number judgment table corresponding to the current game state, the type of big win symbol, the reserved type, and the variable state.

(Step S612-5)
If the hold type of the read hold is special 2 hold, the main CPU 300a checks the counter value of the special pattern 2 hold ball number counter, and if the hold type of the read hold is special 1 hold, the main CPU 300a checks the counter value of the special pattern 1 hold ball number counter.

(Step S612-7)
The main CPU 300a sets the corresponding reach group determination random number judgment table based on the current game state, the number of reserved positions confirmed in the above step S612-5, and the reserved position type. Then, based on the set reach group determination random number judgment table and the reach group determination random number transferred to the 0th memory unit in the above step S610-5, the reach group (group type) is determined.

(Step S612-9)
The main CPU 300a sets a random number judgment table for determining a reach mode when losing, which corresponds to the group type determined in step S612-7.

(Step S612-11)
The main CPU 300a determines a variation mode number based on the reach mode determination random number judgment table set in step S612-3 or step S612-9 and the reach mode determination random number transferred to the 0th memory unit in step S610-7. Here, a variation pattern random number judgment table is determined together with the variation mode number.

(Step S612-13)
The main CPU 300a sets the variable mode command corresponding to the variable mode number determined in step S612-11 in the transmission buffer.

(Step S612-15)
The main CPU 300a determines a fluctuation pattern number based on the fluctuation pattern random number determination table determined in step S612-11 and the fluctuation pattern random number transferred to the 0th memory unit in step S610-7.

(Step S612-17)
The main CPU 300a sets the variation pattern command corresponding to the variation pattern number determined in step S612-15 in the transmission buffer, and ends the special pattern variation number determination process.

Figure 38 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol change processing on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This special symbol change processing is executed when the special game management phase is "01H".

(Step S620-1)
The main CPU 300a executes a process to update the special symbol variation base counter. The counter value of the special symbol variation base counter is set so that it completes one cycle in a predetermined cycle (for example, 100 ms). Specifically, if the counter value of the special symbol variation base counter is "0", a predetermined counter value (for example, 25) is set, and if the counter value is "1" or greater, the counter value is updated to a value obtained by subtracting "1" from the current counter value.

(Step S620-3)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the special symbol variation base counter updated in step S620-1 is 0. If the counter value is 0, the process proceeds to step S620-5. If the counter value is not 0, the process proceeds to step S620-9.

(Step S620-5)
The main CPU 300a performs a special symbol fluctuation timer update process to subtract a predetermined value from the timer value of the special symbol fluctuation timer set in step S610-15.

(Step S620-7)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special symbol fluctuation timer updated in step S620-5 is 0. If the timer value is 0, the process proceeds to step S620-15. If the timer value is not 0, the process proceeds to step S620-9.

(Step S620-9)
The main CPU 300a updates the special symbol display timer that measures the lighting time of each of the 7-segment displays that make up the first special symbol display device 160 and the second special symbol display device 162. Specifically, if the timer value of the special symbol display timer is "0", a predetermined timer value is set, and if the timer value is "1" or greater, the timer value is updated to a value obtained by subtracting "1" from the current timer value.

(Step S620-11)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special symbol display timer is "0." If it is determined that the timer value of the special symbol display timer is "0," the process proceeds to step S620-13. If it is determined that the timer value of the special symbol display timer is not "0," the process during the special symbol variation is terminated.

(Step S620-13)
The main CPU 300a updates the counter value of the special symbol display symbol counter to be updated and ends the special symbol variation process. As a result, each segment of the 7-segment display will light up in sequence at predetermined time intervals.

(Step S620-15)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "02H".

(Step S620-17)
The main CPU 300a saves the special symbol stop symbol number (counter value) determined in step S610-13 in the target special symbol display symbol counter. As a result, the determined special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 160 or the second special symbol display device 162.

(Step S620-19)
The main CPU 300a sets a special symbol stop designation command, which indicates that a special symbol has been stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 160 or the second special symbol display device 162, in the transmission buffer.

(Step S620-21)
The main CPU 300a sets the special symbol variation stop time, which is the time for which the special symbol is displayed in a stopped state, in the special game timer, and ends the special symbol variation process.

Figure 39 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol stop symbol display process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This special symbol stop symbol display process is executed when the special game management phase is "02H".

(Step S630-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special game timer set in step S620-21 is 0. If it is determined that the timer value of the special game timer is not 0, the main CPU 300a ends the special symbol stop symbol display process, and if it is determined that the timer value of the special game timer is 0, the process proceeds to step S630-3.

(Step S630-3)
The main CPU 300a checks the result of the big role lottery.

(Step S630-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the result of the big win lottery is a jackpot. If it is determined to be a jackpot, the process proceeds to step S630-19. If it is determined not to be a jackpot, the process proceeds to step S630-7.

(Step S630-7)
The main CPU 300a executes a time-shortening game management process. Here, a time-shortening game state flag for identifying whether the game state is a non-time-shortening game state or a time-shortening game state is loaded, and it is confirmed whether the current game state is a non-time-shortening game state or a time-shortening game state. If the game state is a time-shortening game state, the counter value of the time-shortening game state counter is updated to a value obtained by subtracting "1" from the current counter value. Note that if the counter value becomes "0" as a result of updating the time-shortening game state counter, a time-shortening game state flag corresponding to the non-time-shortening game state is set. As a result, in the time-shortening game state, when a special symbol has been confirmed a predetermined number of times without winning a jackpot, the game state transitions to a non-time-shortening game state.

(Step S630-9)
The main CPU 300a updates the fluctuation state.

(Step S630-11)
The main CPU 300a sets a game state confirmation designation command at the time of special symbol confirmation, which indicates the game state when the special symbol is confirmed, in a transmission buffer.

(Step S630-13)
The main CPU 300a sets a number command in the transmission buffer to transmit the time-saving number updated in step S630-7 to the sub-control board 330.

(Step S630-15)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the result of the major role lottery is a small win. If it is determined to be a small win, the process proceeds to step S630-21. If it is determined not to be a small win, the process proceeds to step S630-17.

(Step S630-17)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "00H" and ends the special symbol stop symbol display process. This ends the special game management process based on the reservation of 1, and if special 1 reservation or special 2 reservation is stored, processing will be performed to start the variable display of the special symbol based on the next reservation.

(Step S630-19)
The main CPU 300a resets (sets) the gaming state to the initial state, that is, the non-time-shortening gaming state.

(Step S630-21)
The main CPU 300a sets data in a special electric accessory operation RAM set table according to the type of the determined special symbol.

(Step S630-23)
The main CPU 300a performs a process for setting the maximum number of times a special electric device is operated. Specifically, by referencing the data set in step S630-21, a predetermined number (the counter value corresponding to the type of special symbol = the number of rounds) is set as the counter value in the maximum number of times a special electric device is operated counter. This maximum number of times a special electric device is operated counter indicates the number of rounds that can be played in the upcoming major role game. Meanwhile, the main RAM 300c is provided with a counter for the number of consecutive special electric device operations, and the current number of rounds played is managed by adding "1" to the counter value of the counter for the number of consecutive special electric device operations at the start of each round of play. Here, a process for resetting (updating to "0") the counter value of this counter for the number of consecutive special electric device operations at the start of the major role game is also executed.

(Step S630-25)
The main CPU 300a refers to the data set in step S630-21 and saves a predetermined opening time as a timer value in the special game timer.

(Step S630-27)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer an opening designation command for transmitting the start of a major win game or a minor win game to the sub-control board 330. This opening designation command is provided for each opening time, and here, the opening designation command corresponding to the opening time saved in step S630-25 above is set in the transmission buffer.

(Step S630-29)
If the result of the big win lottery confirmed in step S630-3 is a big win, the main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "03H", and if it is a small win, it updates the special game management phase to "07H" and ends the special symbol stop symbol display process. This starts the big win game or small win game.

Figure 40 is a flowchart explaining the pre-opening process for the large prize opening on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This pre-opening process for the large prize opening is executed when the special game management phase is "03H" or "07H."

(Step S640-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special game timer is 0. If it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is not 0, it ends the pre-opening process for the special prize opening, and if it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is 0, it proceeds to step S640-3.

(Step S640-3)
The main CPU 300a updates the counter value of the counter for the number of times the special electric device has been continuously operated to a value obtained by adding "1" to the current counter value.

(Step S640-5)
The main CPU 300a sets a command to specify opening of the large prize opening in the transmission buffer to transmit to the sub-control board 330 the start of opening of the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 (start of the round game).

(Step S641)
The main CPU 300a executes a special prize opening/closing switching process, which will be described later.

(Step S640-7)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the special game management phase is 07H, i.e., whether a small win game is in progress. If it is determined that the special game management phase is 07H, the process proceeds to step S640-9. If it is determined that the special game management phase is not 07H, the process proceeds to step S640-13.

(Step S640-9)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the first round of play has started based on the counter value of the special electric device continuous operation count counter. If it determines that the first round of play has started, the process proceeds to step S640-11. If it determines that the first round of play has not started, the process proceeds to step S640-13.

(Step S640-11)
The main CPU 300a turns on the valid period flag, thereby validating the entry of the gaming ball into the specific area 140b upon the start of the small win game.

(Step S640-13)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to a value obtained by adding 01H to the current value ("04H" or "08H"), and ends the pre-opening process for the large prize opening.

Figure 41 is a flowchart explaining the large prize opening/closing switching process on the main control board 300 for the one-type two-type reference example.

(Step S641-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the special electric accessory opening/closing switching number off counter is the upper limit of the special electric accessory opening/closing switching number (the number of times the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 are opened and closed during one round of play). If it is determined that the counter value is the upper limit, the main CPU 300a ends the large prize opening opening/closing switching process, and if it is determined that the counter value is not the upper limit, the process proceeds to step S641-3.

(Step S641-3)
The main CPU 300a refers to the data in the special electric device operation RAM set table and extracts solenoid control data for controlling the energization of the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c, as well as timer data which is the energization time or de-energization time of the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c, based on the counter value of the special electric device opening/closing switching count counter.

(Step S641-5)
Based on the solenoid control data extracted in step S641-3, the main CPU 300a executes a large prize opening solenoid energization control process to start energizing the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c, or to stop energizing the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c. By executing this large prize opening solenoid energization control process, the start or stop of energization of the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c is controlled in steps S400-31 and S400-33.

(Step S641-7)
The main CPU 300a saves the timer value based on the timer data extracted in step S641-3 in the special game timer. The timer value saved in the special game timer here is the maximum opening time of the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 in one time.

(Step S641-9)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c is in the energization start state, i.e., whether control processing to start energization of the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c has been performed in the above step S641-5. If it is determined that the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c is in the energization start state, the main CPU 300a proceeds to step S641-11, and if it is determined that the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c is not in the energization start state, the main CPU 300a ends the large prize opening open/close switching processing.

(Step S641-11)
The main CPU 300a updates the counter value of the special electric device opening/closing switching count counter to a value obtained by adding "1" to the current counter value, and ends the large prize opening opening/closing switching process.

Figure 42 is a flowchart explaining the special prize opening control process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This special prize opening control process is executed when the special game management phase is "04H" or "08H."

(Step S650-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special game timer saved in step S641-7 is 0. If it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is not 0, the process proceeds to step S650-5. If it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is 0, the process proceeds to step S650-3.

(Step S650-3)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the special electric accessory opening/closing switch count counter is the upper limit value of the special electric accessory opening/closing switch count. If it is determined that the counter value is the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S650-7, and if it is determined that the counter value is not the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S641.

(Step S641)
In the above step S650-3, if it is determined that the counter value of the special electric role opening/closing switching number counter is not the upper limit value of the special electric role opening/closing switching number of times, the main CPU 300a executes the processing of the above step S641.

(Step S650-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the special prize opening ball counter updated in step S500-9 has reached a specified number, that is, whether the same number of game balls as the maximum number of wins in one round have entered the first special prize opening 126 or the second special prize opening 128. If it is determined that the specified number has not been reached, the main CPU 300a terminates the special prize opening opening control process, and if it is determined that the specified number has been reached, the process proceeds to step S650-7.

(Step S650-7)
The main CPU 300a stops the energization of the first large prize opening solenoid 126c and the second large prize opening solenoid 128c and executes the large prize opening closing process required to close the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128. As a result, the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 are closed.

(Step S650-9)
The main CPU 300a saves the effective time (interval time) for closing the big prize opening in the special game timer.

(Step S650-11)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to a value obtained by adding 01H to the current value ("05H" or "09H").

(Step S650-13)
The main CPU 300a sets a large prize opening closure designation command indicating that the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 have been closed in the transmission buffer, and ends the large prize opening opening control process.

Figure 43 is a flowchart explaining the special prize opening closure validation process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This special prize opening closure validation process is executed when the special game management phase is "05H" or "09H."

(Step S660-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special game timer saved in step S650-9 is 0. If it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is not 0, it ends the special prize opening closure validity process, and if it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is 0, it proceeds to step S660-3.

(Step S660-3)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the special electric device continuous operation number cut-off counter matches the counter value of the special electric device maximum operation number cut-off counter, i.e., whether a preset number of rounds of play have been completed. As a result, if it is determined that the counter value of the special electric device continuous operation number cut-off counter matches the counter value of the special electric device maximum operation number cut-off counter, the process proceeds to step S660-9, and if it is determined that they do not match, the process proceeds to step S660-5.

(Step S660-5)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "03H". Note that if the special game management phase is "09H", that is, during control of the small win game, the number of rounds of the small win game is "1", so the determination in step S660-3 above is always YES, and the process does not proceed to this step.

(Step S660-7)
The main CPU 300a saves the predetermined special prize opening closing time in the special game timer and ends the special prize opening closing validity process, thereby starting the next round of games.

(Step S660-9)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the special game management phase is 09H, i.e., whether a small win game is in progress. If it is determined that the special game management phase is 09H, the process proceeds to step S660-11. If it is determined that the special game management phase is not 09H, the process proceeds to step S660-21.

(Step S660-11)
The main CPU 300a determines whether all of the game balls that entered the second large prize opening 128 have been dispensed. Here, it is determined that dispensing has been completed when the value obtained by subtracting the total number of game balls that entered the specific area 140b and the non-specific area 140c from the number of game balls that entered the second large prize opening 128 becomes 0. If it is determined that dispensing has been completed, the process proceeds to step S660-13, and if it is determined that dispensing has not been completed, the large prize opening closure validating process is terminated. Note that if the determination result that dispensing has not been completed is continuously derived over a certain period of time, error processing is performed.

(Step S660-13)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the specific area entry flag is on. If it is determined that the specific area entry flag is on, the process proceeds to step S660-15. If it is determined that the specific area entry flag is not on, the process proceeds to step S660-21.

(Step S660-15)
The main CPU 300a turns off the specific area entry flag.

(Step S660-17)
The main CPU 300a checks the type of small winning symbol and sets a predetermined number (counter value corresponding to the type of special symbol = value obtained by subtracting 1 from the number of rounds, i.e., the number of rounds played in a big winning game) as the counter value in the special electric device maximum operation count counter.

(Step S660-19)
The main CPU 300a sets 03H in the special game management phase and ends the big prize opening closure validity processing.

(Step S660-21)
The main CPU 300a executes an ending time setting process for saving the ending time in a special game timer.

(Step S660-23)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to a value obtained by adding 01H to the current value ("06H" or "0AH").

(Step S660-25)
The main CPU 300a sets an ending designation command indicating the start of the ending in the transmission buffer, and ends the large prize opening closure validity process.

Figure 44 is a flowchart explaining the special prize slot end wait process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This special prize slot end wait process is executed when the special game management phase is "06H" or "0AH".

(Step S670-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special game timer saved in step S660-7 is 0. If it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is not 0, it ends the wait process for the end of the special prize slot, and if it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is 0, it proceeds to step S670-3.

(Step S670-3)
The main CPU 300a executes a state setting process to set the game state after the big win game ends. Here, the game state after the big win game ends is set based on the type of special symbol that triggered the execution of the big win game or the small win game. Specifically, if the special symbol is special symbol A or a, the game state is set to a time-saving game state and the number of time-saving times is set to 1. Also, if the special symbol is special symbol B, C, b, or c, the game state is set to a time-saving game state and the number of time-saving times is set to 7.

In addition, if a small win is won but the gaming ball does not enter the specific area 140b during the small win game, the gaming state after the small win game will be maintained as the gaming state before the small win game. Alternatively, if the gaming ball does not enter the specific area 140b during the small win game, the gaming state after the small win game may be set to a non-time-saving gaming state. Furthermore, if the gaming ball does not enter the specific area 140b during the small win game, the gaming state after the small win game may be set to a time-saving gaming state and the number of time-saving times may be set to a predetermined number. Alternatively, the setting of the gaming state when the gaming ball does not enter the specific area 140b and the number of time-saving times may differ depending on the type of small win symbol.

In addition, this also involves processing to set the variable state after the end of the big win game or small win game based on the big win symbol that triggered the execution of the big win game or the small win symbol that triggered the execution of the small win game, and the currently set value.

(Step S670-5)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer a game state change designation command for transmitting the game state and variable state that are set after the end of the big win game.

(Step S670-7)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer a number-of-times designation command corresponding to the time-saving number of times saved in step S670-3.

(Step S670-9)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "00H" and ends the waiting process for the end of the special winning slot. As a result, if the special 1 reserve or the special 2 reserve is stored, the variable display of the special symbol will be resumed.

Figure 45 is a diagram explaining the regular game management phase for the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example. As already explained, in the Type 1/Type 2 Reference Example, processing related to regular games triggered by the passage of a gaming ball through gate 124 is executed stepwise and repeatedly, and the main control board 300 manages each of these regular game-related processes using the regular game management phase.

As shown in Figure 45, the main ROM 300b stores multiple normal game control modules for controlling the execution of normal games, and each of these normal game control modules is associated with a normal game management phase. Specifically, if the normal game management phase is "00H", a module for executing "normal symbol change waiting processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "01H", a module for executing "normal symbol change in progress processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "02H", a module for executing "normal symbol stop pattern display processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "03H", a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening pre-processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "04H", a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening control processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "05H", a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening closure enable processing" is called; and if the normal game management phase is "06H", a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening end wait processing" is called.

Figure 46 is a flowchart explaining the regular game management process (step S700) on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S700-1)
The main CPU 300a loads the normal game management phase.

(Step S700-3)
The main CPU 300a selects the normal game control module corresponding to the normal game management phase loaded in step S700-1.

(Step S700-5)
The main CPU 300a calls the normal game control module selected in step S700-3 and starts processing.

(Step S700-7)
The main CPU 300a loads a normal game timer that manages the control time of the normal game.

Figure 47 is a flowchart explaining the normal symbol change waiting process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This normal symbol change waiting process is executed when the normal game management phase is "00H".

(Step S710-1)
The main CPU 300a loads the counter value of the normal symbol reserved ball number counter and determines whether the counter value is "0", that is, whether the normal symbol reserved is "0". As a result, if it is determined that the counter value is "0", the normal symbol change waiting process is terminated, and if it is determined that the counter value is not "0", the process proceeds to step S710-3.

(Step S710-3)
The main CPU 300a transfers the regular symbol reserves (winning random numbers) stored in the first to fourth memory sections of the regular symbol reserve memory area to the memory section with the next smaller ordinal number. Specifically, the regular symbol reserves stored in the second to fourth memory sections are transferred to the first to third memory sections. The main RAM 300c also has a zeroth memory section to be processed, and the regular symbol reserve stored in the first memory section is transferred to the zeroth memory section. In this regular symbol memory area shift process, the counter value of the regular symbol reserve ball count counter is decremented by "1," and a regular symbol reserve decrement command indicating that the regular symbol reserve has been decremented by "1" is set in the transmission buffer.

(Step S710-5)
The main CPU 300a loads the winning determination random number transferred to the 0th memory section, selects a winning determination random number judgment table corresponding to the current game state, performs a regular symbol lottery, and executes a regular symbol winning determination process that stores the lottery result.

(Step S710-7)
The main CPU 300a saves the normal symbol stop symbol number corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery in step S710-5. In the Type 1/Type 2 reference example, the normal symbol display 168 is composed of one LED lamp, and in the case of a win, the normal symbol display 168 is turned on, and in the case of a loss, the normal symbol display 168 is turned off. The normal symbol stop symbol number determined here indicates whether or not the normal symbol display 168 will ultimately be turned on. For example, in the case of a win, "0" is determined as the normal symbol stop symbol number, and in the case of a loss, "1" is determined as the normal symbol stop symbol number.

(Step S710-9)
The main CPU 300a checks the current game state, and selects and sets the corresponding normal symbol variation time data table.

(Step S710-11)
The main CPU 300a determines the normal symbol variation time based on the winning determination random number transferred to the 0th memory unit in step S710-3 and the normal symbol variation time data table set in step S710-9.

(Step S710-13)
The main CPU 300a saves the normal symbol variation time determined in the above step S710-11 in the normal game timer.

(Step S710-15)
The main CPU 300a executes a process of setting a normal symbol display symbol counter in order to start the variable display of normal symbols in the normal symbol display device 168. When the counter value of this normal symbol display symbol counter is set to, for example, "0", the normal symbol display device 168 is controlled to be turned on, and when the counter value is set to "1", the normal symbol display device 168 is controlled to be turned off. Here, a predetermined counter value is set in the normal symbol display symbol counter when the variable display of normal symbols starts.

(Step S710-17)
The main CPU 300a sets a general map reservation designation command indicating the number of general map reservations stored in the general map reservation memory area in the transmission buffer.

(Step S710-19)
The main CPU 300a sets the normal pattern designation command in the transmission buffer based on the normal pattern stop pattern number determined in step S710-7 above, i.e., the pattern type (winning pattern or losing pattern) determined by the normal pattern winning determination process.

(Step S710-21)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "01H" and ends the normal pattern change waiting process.

Figure 48 is a flowchart explaining the normal symbol fluctuation processing on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This normal symbol fluctuation processing is executed when the normal game management phase is "01H".

(Step S720-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the normal game timer saved in step S710-13 is 0. If the timer value is 0, the process proceeds to step S720-9. If the timer value is not 0, the process proceeds to step S720-3.

(Step S720-3)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal symbol display timer that measures the lighting time and extinguishing time of the normal symbol display 168. Specifically, if the timer value of the normal symbol display timer is "0", a predetermined timer value is set, and if the timer value is "1" or greater, the timer value is updated to a value obtained by subtracting "1" from the current timer value.

(Step S720-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the normal symbol display timer is "0". As a result, if it is determined that the timer value of the normal symbol display timer is "0", the process proceeds to step S720-7, and if it is determined that the timer value of the normal symbol display timer is not "0", the normal symbol variable process is terminated.

(Step S720-7)
The main CPU 300a updates the counter value of the normal symbol display symbol counter. Here, if the counter value of the normal symbol display symbol counter is a counter value indicating that the normal symbol display 168 is turned off, it is updated to a counter value indicating that it is turned on, and if the counter value is a counter value indicating that the normal symbol display 168 is turned on, it is updated to a counter value indicating that it is turned off, and the normal symbol variation processing is terminated. As a result, the normal symbol display 168 will repeatedly turn on and off (flash) at predetermined time intervals over the normal symbol variation time.

(Step S720-9)
The main CPU 300a saves the normal symbol stop symbol number (counter value) determined in step S710-7 in the normal symbol display symbol counter. As a result, the normal symbol display 168 is finally controlled to light or turn off, and the result of the normal symbol lottery is announced.

(Step S720-11)
The main CPU 300a sets the normal symbol variation stop time, which is the time for stopping and displaying the normal symbol, in the normal game timer.

(Step S720-13)
The main CPU 300a sets a normal symbol stop command, which indicates that the stop display of the normal symbol has started, in the transmission buffer.

(Step S720-15)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "02H" and ends the normal pattern variation processing.

Figure 49 is a flowchart explaining the normal symbol stop symbol display process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This normal symbol stop symbol display process is executed when the normal game management phase is "02H".

(Step S730-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the normal game timer set in step S720-11 is 0. If it is determined that the timer value of the normal game timer is not 0, the normal symbol stop symbol display process is terminated, and if it is determined that the timer value of the normal game timer is 0, the process proceeds to step S730-3.

(Step S730-3)
The main CPU 300a checks the result of the regular lottery.

(Step S730-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the result of the regular drawing is a win. If it is determined to be a win, the process proceeds to step S730-9. If it is determined to be a loss, the process proceeds to step S730-7.

(Step S730-7)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "00H" and ends the normal symbol stop symbol display process. This ends the normal game management process based on the normal symbol reservation of 1, and if a normal symbol reservation is stored, processing will be performed to start the variable display of the normal symbol based on the next reservation.

(Step S730-9)
The main CPU 300a refers to the data in the opening/closing control pattern table and saves the time before normal power release as a timer value in the normal game timer.

(Step S730-11)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "03H" and ends the normal stop symbol display process. This starts the opening/closing control of the second start port 122.

Figure 50 is a flowchart explaining the pre-opening processing of the normal electric device winning opening in the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This pre-opening processing of the normal electric device winning opening is executed when the normal game management phase is "03H".

(Step S740-1)
The main CPU 300a judges whether the timer value of the normal game timer is not "0." If it is judged that the timer value of the normal game timer is not "0," the normal electric device prize opening pre-opening process is terminated, and if it is judged that the timer value of the normal game timer is "0," the process proceeds to step S741.

(Step S741)
The main CPU 300a executes a normal electric device prize opening/closing switching process, which will be described later.

(Step S740-3)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "04H" and ends the normal electric device winning opening pre-processing.

Figure 51 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric prize opening/closing switching process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example.

(Step S741-1)
The main CPU 300a judges whether the counter value of the normal electric accessory opening/closing switching number off counter is the upper limit value of the normal electric accessory opening/closing switching number (the number of times the movable piece 122b opens and closes during one opening/closing control).As a result, if it is judged that the counter value is the upper limit value, the normal electric accessory winning opening opening/closing switching process is terminated, and if it is judged that the counter value is not the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S741-3.

(Step S741-3)
The main CPU 300a refers to the data in the opening/closing control pattern table and, based on the counter value of the normal electric role opening/closing switching count off counter, extracts solenoid control data (power supply control data or power supply stop control data) for controlling the power supply to the normal electric role solenoid 122c, and timer data which is the power supply time (solenoid power supply time) or power stop time (normal power closing effective time = pause time) of the normal electric role solenoid 122c.

(Step S741-5)
The main CPU 300a executes a normal electric role solenoid energization control process to start energizing the normal electric role solenoid 122c or stop energizing the normal electric role solenoid 122c based on the solenoid control data extracted in step S741-3. By executing this normal electric role solenoid energization control process, the start or stop of energization of the normal electric role solenoid 122c is controlled in step S400-31 and step S400-33.

(Step S741-7)
The main CPU 300a saves the timer value based on the timer data extracted in step S741-3 in the normal game timer. The timer value saved in the normal game timer here is the maximum opening time of the second start port 122 once.

(Step S741-9)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the normal electric role solenoid 122c is in the energization start state, that is, whether the control process to start energizing the normal electric role solenoid 122c has been performed in the above step S741-5. As a result, if it is determined that it is in the energization start state, it moves the process to step S741-11, and if it is determined that it is not in the energization start state, it ends the normal electric role winning opening opening switching process.

(Step S741-11)
The main CPU 300a updates the counter value of the normal electric accessory opening/closing switching count counter to a value obtained by adding "1" to the current counter value.

Figure 52 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric device prize opening control process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This normal electric device prize opening control process is executed when the normal game management phase is "04H".

(Step S750-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the normal game timer saved in step S741-7 is 0. If it is determined that the timer value of the normal game timer is not 0, the process proceeds to step S750-5. If it is determined that the timer value of the normal game timer is 0, the process proceeds to step S750-3.

(Step S750-3)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the counter for counting the number of times the normal electric accessory is opened or closed is the upper limit of the number of times the normal electric accessory is opened or closed. If it is determined that the counter value is the upper limit, the process proceeds to step S750-7. If it is determined that the counter value is not the upper limit, the process proceeds to step S741.

(Step S741)
In the above step S750-3, if it is determined that the counter value of the normal electric role opening/closing switching count counter is not the upper limit value of the normal electric role opening/closing switching count, the main CPU 300a executes the processing of the above step S741.

(Step S750-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the normal electric device winning ball number counter updated in step S530-9 has reached a specified number, that is, whether the same number of game balls as the maximum number of winning balls during one opening/closing control has entered the second starting opening 122. As a result, if it is determined that the specified number has not been reached, the normal electric device winning opening opening control process is terminated, and if it is determined that the specified number has been reached, the process proceeds to step S750-7.

(Step S750-7)
The main CPU 300a executes a normal electric accessory closing process required to stop the power supply to the normal electric accessory solenoid 122c and close the second start port 122. As a result, the second start port 122 is closed.

(Step S750-9)
The main CPU 300a saves the normal power valid state time in the normal game timer.

(Step S750-11)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "05H" and ends the normal electric device winning opening control process.

Figure 53 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric device prize opening closure enable process on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This normal electric device prize opening closure enable process is executed when the normal game management phase is "05H".

(Step S760-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the normal game timer saved in step S750-9 is 0. If it determines that the timer value of the normal game timer is not 0, it ends the normal electric device winning port closure validity process, and if it determines that the timer value of the normal game timer is 0, it proceeds to step S760-3.

(Step S760-3)
The main CPU 300a saves the normal power end wait time in the normal game timer.

(Step S760-5)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "06H" and ends the normal electric device winning hole closure validity processing.

Figure 54 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric device prize opening end wait processing on the main control board 300 for the Type 1/Type 2 reference example. This normal electric device prize opening end wait processing is executed when the normal game management phase is "06H".

(Step S770-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the normal game timer saved in step S760-3 is 0. If it determines that the timer value of the normal game timer is not 0, it ends the normal electric device winning port end wait process, and if it determines that the timer value of the normal game timer is 0, it proceeds to step S770-3.

(Step S770-3)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "00H" and ends the normal electric device winning port end wait process. As a result, if a normal symbol reservation is stored, the variable display of the normal symbol will resume.

As described above, special games and regular games progress as various processes are executed on the main control board 300. While these games are in progress, the sub-control board 330 controls the execution of various effects based on commands sent from the main control board 300. Examples of effects are shown below.

<Example of production reference>
55 is a diagram illustrating an example of a variation effect of a non-reach variation pattern according to a reference example of the variation effect. As described above, when a major role lottery is performed on the main control board 300, a variation effect is executed to notify the result of the major role lottery while the special symbol is being displayed, i.e., over the period of time the special symbol is being displayed. In this variation effect, various background images are displayed on the main performance display unit 200a, and the performance symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed superimposed on these background images. During the variation effect, sound is output from the audio output device 206 in accordance with the image displayed on the main performance display unit 200a, the lighting device 204 is controlled to light, and the performance element device 202 is controlled to move, but detailed explanations are omitted here.

The variable effects in the reference example are broadly divided into non-reach variable patterns and reach variable patterns. In the variable effect of the non-reach variable pattern, a background image (not shown) is displayed on the main effect display unit 200a, and the variable display of effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c is superimposed on this background image. For example, as shown in Figure 55(a), suppose that the variable display of effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c is stationary in a combination indicating that the result of the major role lottery was a miss. In this state, when a new variable display of a special symbol is performed, as the variable display of the special symbol begins, the three variable display (scroll display) of effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c begins. Note that the downward-pointing white arrow in the figure indicates that the variable display of effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c is scrolling vertically.

First, as shown in Figure 55(c), effect symbol 210a is displayed as a stopped symbol, and then, as shown in Figure 55(d), effect symbol 210c, which is different from effect symbol 210a, is displayed as a stopped symbol. Then, at approximately the same time that the variable display of the special symbol ends and the special symbol is displayed as a stopped symbol on the first special symbol display device 160 or the second special symbol display device 162, effect symbol 210b is displayed as a stopped symbol, as shown in Figure 55(e), and the result of the major prize lottery is notified to the player based on the final stopped display mode of the three effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c at this time.

Figure 56 is a diagram illustrating an example of a variation presentation of a normal reach variation pattern according to a presentation reference example. In the presentation reference example, the reach variation pattern is broadly divided into a normal reach variation pattern, an advanced reach variation pattern, and a pseudo-continuous reach variation pattern. In the variation presentation of a normal reach variation pattern, similar to the variation presentation of a no-reach variation pattern, the variation presentation of the special pattern 210a, 210b, and 210c begins as the variation presentation of the special pattern begins, and as shown in Figure 56(a), the variation presentation of the performance pattern 210a is first stopped and displayed. After that, as shown in Figure 56(b), the variation presentation of the same performance pattern 210c as the performance pattern 210a is stopped and displayed.

In this way, when the main effect display unit 200a displays the same effect symbols 210a, 210c in a stopped state, as shown in Figure 56(c), the word "Reach" is displayed superimposed on the effect symbols 210a, 210c in the main effect display unit 200a. Note that there are multiple types of reach states, and the same effect symbols 210a, 210c with any of the numbers "1" to "9" written on them are stopped and displayed. Thereafter, as shown in Figure 56(d), the shapes of the effect symbols 210a, 210c continue to change from those before the reach state was entered, and the display continues to change. Then, as shown in Figure 56(e), finally, effect symbol 210b, which is different from effect symbols 210a, 210c, is stopped and displayed, and the player is notified that the result of the big prize lottery was a loss.

Figure 57 is a diagram illustrating an example of a variation effect of an advanced reach variation pattern when a miss occurs, according to a reference example of the effect, and Figure 58 is a diagram illustrating an example of a variation effect of an advanced reach variation pattern when a jackpot occurs, according to a reference example of the effect. As shown in Figures 57(a)-(d) and 58(a)-(d), the variation effect of the advanced reach variation pattern is similar to the variation effect of the normal reach variation pattern, in that the main effect display unit 200a displays the effect symbols 210a, 210c in a reach mode, and then a reach development effect is executed in which a predetermined development image (video) is played and displayed. In this reach development effect, for example, as shown in Figures 57(e) and 58(e), a mission is displayed on the main effect display unit 200a, and images toward completing the mission are displayed, as shown in Figures 57(f), (g) and 58(f), (g).

Here, the development images for reach development effects are broadly divided into miss patterns and jackpot patterns. In the development image for a miss pattern, an image indicating mission failure is finally displayed, as shown in Figure 57(h), and then, as shown in Figure 57(i), the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed in a stopped combination to indicate a miss. On the other hand, in the development image for a jackpot pattern, an image indicating mission success is finally displayed, as shown in Figure 58(h), and then, as shown in Figure 58(i), the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed in a stopped combination to indicate a jackpot.

Note that reach development effects include, for example, mission effects in which development images depicting mission challenges are displayed, and battle effects in which development images depicting ally characters battling enemy characters, as described above. Mission effects have multiple execution patterns that differ in the content of the mission, while battle effects have multiple execution patterns that differ in the characters that appear and the methods of combat. Furthermore, as described above, mission effect execution patterns are broadly divided into jackpot patterns in which the mission is accomplished and failure patterns in which the mission is failed, and battle effect execution patterns are similarly broadly divided into jackpot patterns in which the ally character defeats the enemy character and failure patterns in which the ally character is defeated by the enemy character.

The jackpot pattern and the losing pattern are identical until the end of the presentation, with the only difference being whether the ally character ultimately wins or loses, or whether the mission is accomplished or not. Therefore, during the reach development presentation, the player cannot discern the outcome of the big role lottery until the end of the variable presentation, giving the player a sense of anticipation of a jackpot.

The jackpot pattern is only selected if the result of the big prize lottery is a jackpot, and the miss pattern is only selected if the result of the big prize lottery is a miss. However, it is possible for the reach development effect to be executed twice in one variable performance; in this case, the first reach development effect is executed as a miss pattern, and the second reach development effect is executed as either a miss pattern or a jackpot pattern. The flow of the effect when the reach development effect is executed twice in one variable performance is explained below.

Figure 59 is a diagram illustrating an example of a variable effect when the reach development effect relating to the reference effect is executed twice. For example, suppose that after effect patterns 210a and 210c are displayed in a reach mode, a mission effect is executed as shown in Figures 59(a) and (b). Up to this point, there is no difference from when the reach development effect is executed only once in one variable effect, but immediately after it is notified that the mission has not been completed, "REACH UP" is displayed on the main effect display section 200a, as shown in Figure 59(c).

Then, as shown in Figure 59(d), a battle effect development image is displayed on the main effect display unit 200a, and the second reach development effect begins. This battle effect development image shows a battle between an ally character and an enemy character, and when a jackpot is won, as shown in Figure 59(e), the ally character ultimately defeats the enemy character, and as shown in Figure 59(f), effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed in a stopped combination to indicate a jackpot. On the other hand, when a loss occurs, as shown in Figure 59(g), the ally character ultimately loses to the enemy character, and as shown in Figure 59(h), effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed in a stopped combination to indicate a loss.

Figure 60 is a diagram illustrating an example of a pseudo-sequential reach fluctuation pattern fluctuation presentation related to a reference presentation example. In the pseudo-sequential reach fluctuation pattern fluctuation presentation, as shown in Figure 60(a), when the display of the fluctuations of performance symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c begins, as shown in Figure 60(b), performance symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are temporarily stopped and displayed in one of multiple pre-established pseudo patterns. In this pseudo pattern, for example, the same performance symbols 210a and 210b and performance symbol 210c with a number "2" larger than these performance symbols 210a and 210b are temporarily stopped and displayed.

When the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are temporarily stopped and displayed in a pseudo mode, the display of the changing effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c resumes, as shown in Figure 60(c). In other words, the pseudo mode can be said to indicate a re-changing display of the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c. After that, the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are temporarily stopped and displayed again in a pseudo mode, as shown in Figure 60(d).

Then, as shown in Figure 60(e), when the variable display of effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c resumes, effect symbols 210a and 210c are displayed in a reach mode as shown in Figure 60(f), and thereafter, as shown in Figures 60(g) to (i), a reach development effect is executed in the same manner as the developed reach variation pattern, and the result of the big role lottery is notified to the player.

In this way, the pseudo-continuous reach fluctuation pattern's fluctuation performance differs from that of the advanced reach fluctuation pattern in the content until the performance symbols 210a, 210c reach the state, and after the state reaches the state, the fluctuation performance proceeds in the same way as the advanced reach fluctuation pattern.

In the pseudo-continuous reach fluctuation pattern, multiple fluctuation display patterns of the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are provided before the reach state is reached, and the number of temporary stop displays of the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c, in other words, the number of times that the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed, varies for each fluctuation display pattern. This fluctuation display pattern is determined by the fluctuation mode command, and the selection ratio of the fluctuation mode command when a jackpot is won and when a jackpot is lost is set so that the more temporary stop displays (fluctuating displays) of the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed, the higher the possibility (hereinafter referred to as "reliability") that a jackpot will ultimately be announced.

Specifically, if the result of the big prize lottery is a jackpot, the selection ratio for variable mode commands with a large number of variable display counts is set higher than the selection ratio for variable mode commands with a small number of variable display counts, and if the result of the big prize lottery is a loser, the selection ratio for variable mode commands with a small number of variable display counts is set higher than the selection ratio for variable mode commands with a large number of variable display counts.

Furthermore, the main control board 300 is set so that the reliability of the pseudo-sequential reach fluctuation pattern is higher than the reliability of the extended reach fluctuation pattern. Therefore, the reliability is indicated by the number of tentative stop displays (fluctuating displays) of the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c, and the player will watch the progress of the effect, hoping that more tentative stop displays (fluctuating displays) of the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c will appear.

The execution patterns of the above-mentioned variable effects are determined and controlled by the sub-control board 330 based on the variable commands determined by the main control board 300. In other words, the execution patterns of the variable effects are determined in cooperation between the main control board 300 and the sub-control board 330.

Figure 61 is a diagram illustrating a variable effect determination table for a reference example of a display. Figure 61(a) shows the first half variable effect determination table, and Figure 61(b) shows the second half variable effect determination table. As described above, when a major role lottery is held on the main control board 300, a variable command is determined based on the result of the major role lottery, and each determined command is sent to the sub-control board 330. When the sub-control board 330 receives a variable mode command, it obtains a random effect number of 1 from the range of 0 to 249 and refers to the first half variable effect determination table to determine the execution pattern of the variable effect for the first half based on the obtained random effect number and the received variable mode command. Furthermore, when a variable pattern command is received, it obtains a random effect number of 1 from the range of 0 to 249 and refers to the second half variable effect determination table to determine the execution pattern of the variable effect for the second half based on the obtained random effect number and the received variable pattern command. Note that Figure 61 shows only a portion of the first half variable effect determination table and the second half variable effect determination table.

As shown in Figure 61, according to the first half variable effect determination table, a selection ratio for the execution pattern of the first half variable effect is set for each variable mode number (variation mode command), and according to the second half variable effect determination table, a selection ratio for the execution pattern of the second half variable effect is set for each variable pattern number (variation pattern command). Then, by combining and executing the determined execution patterns of the first and second half variable effects, one variable effect is executed.

The no-reach fluctuation pattern fluctuation effect is executed when "None" is determined as the first half execution pattern, indicating that the first half fluctuation effect will not be executed, and "Normal Miss 1," "Normal Miss 2," "Special Miss 1," or "Special Miss 2," which correspond to the no-reach fluctuation pattern, is determined as the second half execution pattern. For example, when a fluctuation mode command corresponding to the fluctuation mode number "01H," indicating that the first half fluctuation effect will not be executed, is received, the sub-control board 330 always determines "None" as the first half execution pattern. Furthermore, the selection ratio is set in the second half fluctuation effect determination table so that only "Normal Miss 1," "Normal Miss 2," "Special Miss 1," or "Special Miss 2" are determined as the fluctuation pattern commands that can be received at the same time. Therefore, by determining "None" as the first half execution pattern and determining "Normal Miss 1," "Normal Miss 2," "Special Miss 1," or "Special Miss 2" as the second half execution pattern, the execution pattern of the fluctuation effect is determined to be the no-reach fluctuation pattern described above.

On the other hand, the reach fluctuation pattern fluctuation effect is executed when a pattern other than "none" is determined as the execution pattern for the first half, and one of the reach development effects (shown as developments 1 to 5 in the diagram) is determined as the execution pattern for the second half. In other words, when the main effect display unit 200a executes a reach fluctuation pattern fluctuation effect, it always receives a fluctuation mode command corresponding to a fluctuation mode number other than 01H, and receives a fluctuation pattern command corresponding to a fluctuation pattern number that determines one of developments 1 to 5.

Here, in Figure 61(a), "Normal Reach 1" and "Normal Reach 2" in the first half of the execution pattern each indicate the background image and the variable display patterns of the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c displayed on the main effect display unit 200a until the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c reach the reach state, or more specifically, until the reach development effect begins, during the variable display of the normal reach variation pattern. These image patterns are designed in advance to match the variable display times of the special symbols associated with the variation mode number, and for example, when "Normal Reach 1" is determined, the images shown in Figures 56(a) to (d) will be displayed on the main effect display unit 200a.

In addition, in Figure 61 (a), "pseudo 2a" and the like in the execution pattern for the first half indicate the display pattern of the main change effect image displayed on the main effect display unit 200a until the start of the reach development effect, among the change effects of the pseudo-continuous reach change pattern, i.e., the execution pattern of the pattern display effect in which the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed in a changing manner. For example, "pseudo 2a" indicates that the pseudo-continuous reach change pattern of "pseudo 2" in which the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed in a changing manner twice, and the main change effect image is display pattern a. In addition, "pseudo 3b" indicates that the pseudo-continuous reach change pattern of "pseudo 3" in which the effect symbols 210a, 210b, and 210c are displayed in a changing manner three times, and the main change effect image is display pattern b.

In the first half variation effect determination table and second half variation effect determination table shown in Figure 61, the selection ratios are set so that the variation effects of the no-reach variation pattern and the normal reach variation pattern are executed only if the result of the big role lottery is a miss. Also, the advanced reach variation pattern and pseudo-continuous reach variation pattern are determined both when there is a miss and when there is a jackpot, but the advanced reach variation pattern has a higher selection ratio when there is a miss and a lower selection ratio when there is a jackpot than the pseudo-continuous reach variation pattern. In this way, by setting the selection ratios for when there is a miss and when there is a jackpot, the pseudo-continuous reach variation pattern is set to have a higher reliability than the advanced reach variation pattern.

Furthermore, within the pseudo-continuous reach fluctuation pattern, the more pseudo-numbers there are, the higher the selection rate for a jackpot and the lower the selection rate for a miss; the more pseudo-numbers there are, the higher the reliability is set.

As described above, the general flow of the variable performance is determined by the variable performance determination table, but at the start of the variable performance, the execution possibility and execution pattern of the various elemental performances that make up the variable performance are further determined based on the variable mode command or variable pattern command. Here, elemental performance refers to all performances that make up the variable performance, such as the variable display of performance patterns 210a, 210b, 210c on the main performance display unit 200a, the development image displayed on the main performance display unit 200a in the reach development performance, and even the performance that moves the performance role device 202, as described above. In this embodiment, preview performances (suggestive performances) are executed at various times during the variable performance as elemental performances that make up the variable performance.

This preview effect is an effect in which a predetermined image is displayed on the main effect display unit 200a or the effect role device 202 is moved at a predetermined timing at the start of a fluctuation effect, when the effect symbols 210a, 210b, 210c are displayed again in the fluctuation effect of a pseudo-continuous reach fluctuation pattern, or even during a reach development effect, and the possibility of execution and execution pattern are determined for each preview effect. Each preview effect has multiple execution patterns, and for each of the multiple execution patterns, a selection ratio is set for each fluctuation pattern command or fluctuation mode command - in other words, for each possibility of winning a jackpot - and this selection ratio sets the expected value for each execution pattern.

As explained above, when the sub-control board 330 receives a variation command, it determines the execution pattern of the variation effect, whether each element effect can be executed, and the execution pattern, and the variation effect is executed while the special pattern is being varied. In this way, the variation effect is executed once for each variation display of the special pattern, but in the embodiment, an effect spanning multiple variations of the special pattern can also be executed.

Figure 62 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hold display effect related to a reference example. A hold display area 211 is provided below the main display unit 200a. Although not shown in Figures 55 to 60, the hold display area 211 is always displayed on the main display unit 200a, even during variable effects and while waiting for play. During variable effects, a hold display effect is displayed in this hold display area 211. In the hold display effect, the hold display area 211 displays the hold display 212a, which indicates the hold read into the processing area (0th memory unit) during the major role lottery, and the first hold display 212b, second hold display 212c, third hold display 212d, and fourth hold display 212e, which indicate the holds stored in the first to fourth memory units of the first special symbol hold memory area, respectively. Note that, hereinafter, the hold display 212a and the first to fourth hold displays 212b to 212e are collectively referred to as hold display 212.

For example, if a special symbol is being displayed while four special 1 reserves are stored in the main RAM 300c, then as shown in Figure 62(a), a total of five reserve displays 212, including the reserve display 212a and the first reserve display 212b through the fourth reserve display 212e, are displayed in the reserve display area 211. Then, from this state, the display of the special symbol changes ends, the special 1 reserve stored in the first memory unit is read into the processing area (the zeroth memory unit) and a major role lottery is performed, and the reserve shift processing of the main RAM 300c is executed. Then, as shown in Figure 62(b), the reserve display 212a is erased, and the first reserve display 212b through the fourth reserve display 212e are moved one space to the left. Furthermore, when the next special 1 reserve is read from this state, the reserve displays 212 are further moved as shown in Figure 62(c). In this way, the hold display effect notifies the player of the number of special 1 holds stored in the main RAM 300c.

The hold indicator 212 also has multiple display patterns, with each display pattern having a different display color. When a hold is stored, the main control board 300 executes an acquisition effect determination process (step S536) and transmits a look-ahead command to the sub-control board 330, indicating the variable information to be determined when the newly stored hold is read into the 0th memory unit. When the sub-control board 330 receives the look-ahead command, it determines the display pattern for the hold indicator corresponding to the newly stored hold based on the received command. At this time, a selection ratio for each display pattern is set for each look-ahead command, i.e., for each variable information to be determined when the newly stored hold is read out in the big win lottery. In other words, because the selection ratio for each display pattern is set depending on whether a jackpot is won and the execution pattern of the variable effects, the display pattern of the hold indicator 212 indicates the reliability (expected value) of a jackpot.

Figure 63(a) is a diagram explaining the final hold display pattern determination table, and Figure 63(b) is a diagram explaining the previous hold display pattern determination table. As described above, in the acquisition time performance determination process in the main control board 300, a look-ahead designation command indicating the variation mode number and variation pattern number to be determined when a newly stored hold is read out is sent to the sub-control board 330. In other words, the look-ahead designation command is a command that transmits to the sub-control board 330 the variation mode number and variation pattern number to be determined when the hold is read out. According to the final hold display pattern determination table, a selection ratio for the display pattern of the hold display 212 is set for each look-ahead designation command (variation pattern number), and when a look-ahead designation command is received, the final display pattern of the hold display 212, i.e., the final display pattern of the hold display 212a in question, is determined.

According to the final hold display pattern determination table shown in Figure 63(a), one of eight display patterns is determined: "Default (white)", "Flashing", "Blue", "Yellow", "Green", "Black", "Red", and "Premium (Rainbow)". Once the final display pattern of the hold display 212a is determined, the display pattern of the hold display 212 displayed before that is determined by referring to the previous hold display pattern determination table shown in Figure 63(b). According to this previous hold display pattern determination table, a selection ratio for the display pattern of the hold display 212 to be displayed before the moving display is set for each display pattern of the hold display 212.

For example, when a hold is stored in the second memory section of the first special chart hold memory area on the main control board 300, the final display pattern of the hold display 212a is determined by referring to the final hold display pattern determination table. In this case, the display pattern of the first hold display 212b is then determined by referring to the previous hold display pattern determination table. At this time, the display pattern of the first hold display 212b is determined based on the previously determined final display pattern of the hold display 212a. For example, if the final display pattern of the hold display 212a is "blue," then according to the previous hold display pattern determination table, "flashing" is determined as the display pattern of the first hold display 212b with a probability of 200/250, and "blue" is determined with a probability of 50/250.

Once the display pattern of the first hold display 212b is determined in this manner, the display pattern of the second hold display 212c is determined again by referring to the previous hold display pattern determination table based on the previously determined display pattern of the first hold display 212b.

As described above, when a hold is stored, the final display pattern of the hold display 212a is first determined, and then the display pattern of the first hold display 212b is determined based on the determined final display pattern of the hold display 212a, and so on, with the display patterns being determined sequentially in reverse order. Note that, according to the previous hold display pattern determination table, the selection ratio is set so that only a display pattern that is the same as the previously determined display pattern of the hold display 212, or one with a low reliability, is determined.

As described above, the hold display effect provides multiple display patterns for the hold display 212, each with a different expected value for the award of a specified gaming profit. From the time the hold display 212 is first displayed on the main effect display unit 200a until it is finally erased, the hold display 212 may be displayed in one display pattern, or the display pattern may change during the display period.

In the reference example presentation, the timing at which the display pattern of the hold display 212 changes can be broadly divided into when the newly stored special 1 hold (hereinafter also referred to as the target hold) is moved and displayed among the first hold display 212b to the third hold display 212d, and when the target change presentation for the target hold is in progress.

Next, we will explain the processing on the sub-control board 330 to execute the above-mentioned variable effects. Note that, below, we will omit explanations of processing on the sub-control board 330 that is not related to variable effects.

(Sub-CPU initialization process of the sub-control board 330)
FIG. 64 is a flowchart illustrating the sub-CPU initialization process (S1000) of the sub-control board 330 in the reference example of the performance.

(Step S1000-1)
When power is turned on, the sub-CPU 330a reads a CPU initialization processing program from the sub-ROM 330b and initializes and sets flags and the like stored in the sub-RAM 330c.

(Step S1000-3)
Next, the sub-CPU 330a performs a process of updating each effect random number, and thereafter repeats the process of step S1000-3 until an interrupt process is performed. Note that multiple types of effect random numbers are provided, and here, each effect random number is updated asynchronously.

(Sub-timer interrupt processing of the sub-control board 330)
65 is a flowchart illustrating the sub-timer interrupt process (S1100) of the sub-control board 330 according to the reference example. The sub-control board 330 is provided with a reset clock pulse generating circuit (not shown) that generates clock pulses at a predetermined cycle (30 times per second). When this reset clock pulse generating circuit generates clock pulses, the sub-CPU 330a loads a timer interrupt processing program and starts the sub-timer interrupt processing.

(Step S1100-1)
The sub-CPU 330a saves the register.

(Step S1100-3)
The sub-CPU 330a performs processing to permit an interrupt.

(Step S1100-5)
The sub-CPU 330a performs update processing of various timer counters used in the sub-control board 330. Here, unless otherwise specified, the various timer counters are decremented by 1 each time the sub-timer interrupt processing of the sub-control board 330 is performed, and the decrementing stops when the counter reaches 0.

(Step S1200)
The sub-CPU 330a analyzes the commands stored in the receive buffer of the sub-RAM 330c and performs various processes according to the received commands. When a command is sent from the main control board 300, the sub-control board 330 performs a command receive interrupt process and stores the command sent from the main control board 300 in the receive buffer. Here, the command stored in the receive buffer is analyzed by the command receive interrupt process.

(Step S1100-7)
The sub-CPU 330a performs a time schedule management process that refers to a time table and executes a process corresponding to the time stored in the time table. Here, based on the time data set in the time table, various flags are turned on or off or commands are sent to each performance device, thereby controlling the execution of each performance, including variable performances and major role performances.

(Step S1100-9)
The sub-CPU 330a restores the register and ends the sub-timer interrupt process.

Figure 66 is a flowchart illustrating the pre-reading command reception process for the reference example of the command analysis process, which is executed when a pre-reading command is received. As described above, the pre-reading command is set in the main control board 300 in Figure 31, and then transmitted to the sub-control board 330 by the sub-command transmission process of step S100-65 (see Figure 21).

(Step S1210-1)
The sub-CPU 330a first analyzes the received read-ahead specification command.

(Step S1210-3)
The sub-CPU 330a stores the advance determination information based on the analysis result of step S1210-1. The sub-RAM 330c of the sub-control board 330 is provided with a first advance determination information storage unit corresponding to the first special symbol reservation storage area of the main control board 300, and a second advance determination information storage unit corresponding to the second special symbol reservation storage area. The first advance determination information storage unit has four storage units, a first storage unit to a fourth storage unit. The first storage unit to the fourth storage unit of the first advance determination information storage unit correspond to the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit of the first special symbol reservation storage area, respectively. Similarly, the second advance determination information storage unit has four storage units, a first storage unit to a fourth storage unit, and the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit of the second advance determination information storage unit correspond to the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit of the second special symbol reservation storage area, respectively. Here, the preliminary judgment information is stored in the memory section corresponding to the memory section in which the newly reserved data is stored, among the first to fourth memory sections of the first special chart reserved memory area or the second special chart reserved memory area of the main control board 300.

(Step S1210-5)
The sub-CPU 330a performs a final hold display pattern determination process to determine the final display pattern of the hold display 212. Here, based on the received read-ahead specification command, the final hold display pattern determination table (FIG. 63(a)) is referenced, and the final display pattern of the hold display 212a is determined and stored.

(Step S1210-7)
The sub-CPU 330a derives the number of times to determine the display pattern of the hold display 212, i.e., the change timing of the hold display 212, based on the storage unit in which the hold is stored, and determines the display pattern of the hold display 212 by referring to the previous hold display pattern determination table (FIG. 63(b)) for the derived number of times. Then, the display pattern information of the determined hold display 212 is stored in a predetermined storage unit, and the process proceeds to step S1210-9.

(Step S1210-9)
Based on the determinations made in steps S1210-5 and S1210-7, the sub-CPU 330a performs a hold display start process to start displaying the hold display 212, and then ends the read-ahead designation command reception process. As a result, when the hold is stored, the display of the corresponding hold display 212 is started.

Figure 67 is a flowchart illustrating the variable command reception process executed when a variable command is received, part of the command analysis process for the reference performance example. As described above, the variable command is set in the main control board 300 in steps S612-13 and S612-17 of Figure 37, and then transmitted to the sub-control board 330 by the sub-command transmission process of step S100-65 (see Figure 21).

(Step S1220-1)
When the variation command is received, the sub-CPU 330a first analyzes and stores the received variation pattern command.

(Step S1220-3)
The sub-CPU 330a acquires the effect random number (0 to 249) updated in the above step S1000-3, and determines and stores the execution pattern of the variable effect in the second half based on the acquired effect random number and the analysis result in the above step S1220-1.

(Step S1220-5)
The sub-CPU 330a analyzes and stores the received variation mode command.

(Step S1220-7)
The sub-CPU 330a acquires the effect random number (0 to 249) updated in the above step S1000-3, and determines and stores the execution pattern of the first half of the variable effect based on the acquired effect random number and the analysis result in the above step S1220-5.

(Step S1220-9)
The sub-CPU 330a acquires the performance random number (0 to 249) updated in step S1000-3 for each preview performance, and based on the acquired performance random number and the analysis results in steps S1220-1 and S1220-5, it refers to each preview performance decision table to determine whether or not to execute each preview performance and the execution pattern, and stores the information.

(Step S1220-11)
The sub-CPU 330a executes a shift process to shift the pre-determination information stored in the pre-determination information storage unit. Here, when a variable performance based on the special 1 reservation is to be started, the pre-determination information stored in the fourth storage unit to the second storage unit of the first pre-determination information storage unit is shifted to the third storage unit to the first storage unit of the first pre-determination information storage unit, respectively, and when a variable performance based on the special 2 reservation is to be started, the pre-determination information stored in the fourth storage unit to the second storage unit of the second pre-determination information storage unit is shifted to the third storage unit to the first storage unit of the second pre-determination information storage unit, respectively.

(Step S1220-13)
The sub-CPU 330a performs a hold display shift process to shift the hold display 212. In addition, here, when the display pattern of the hold display 212 changes, execution data for changing the display pattern at a predetermined timing is set.

(Step S1220-15)
The sub-CPU 330a sets the time data in the time table based on the decisions made in each of the above steps, and then ends the variable command reception process. Based on the time table set here, in step S1100-7, the process of displaying the variable effect image on the main effect display unit 200a, the sound output process, the lighting control process for the effect lighting device 204, and other effect execution control processes are performed.

<Example>
Next, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to the above-mentioned reference example will be described. Below, in the embodiment, changes to the above-mentioned reference example will be described. In the following description of the embodiment, the same components as those in the above-mentioned reference example will be assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Therefore, parts of the above-mentioned reference example that are not described below as changes are naturally included in the embodiment.

Figure 68 is a diagram illustrating a special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table according to an embodiment. The special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table according to an embodiment is used in place of the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table according to the reference example above. According to the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table according to an embodiment, when the setting value is set to 1 (registered setting value = 1), the big prize lottery is conducted by referring to the special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table a shown in Figure 68 (a).

According to this special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment table A, if the jackpot determination random number is between 10001 and 10298, it is judged to be a jackpot, and if it is any other jackpot determination random number, it is judged to be a miss. Therefore, the probability of a jackpot in this case is approximately 1 in 219.9.

Also, when the setting value is set to 2 to 6 (registered setting value = 2 to 6), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing Special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment tables b to f, as shown in Figures 68(b) to (f), respectively. According to these Special 1 jackpot determination random number judgment tables b to f, the jackpot determination random numbers that determine a jackpot are set as shown, and the higher the registered setting value, the higher the probability of winning a jackpot.

In this embodiment, a small prize cannot be won by a lottery for a major prize based on a special 1 reservation, but it may be configured so that a small prize can be won by a lottery for a major prize based on a special 1 reservation.

Figure 69 is a diagram illustrating a special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table according to an embodiment. The special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table according to the embodiment is used in place of the special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table according to the reference example described above. According to the special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table according to the embodiment, when the setting value is set to 1 (registered setting value = 1), the special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table a shown in Figure 69 (a) is referenced to perform a major role lottery. According to the special 2 jackpot determination random number judgment table a, a jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 10001 and 10298, a minor jackpot is determined if the jackpot determination random number is between 20001 and 36383, and a miss is determined if the jackpot determination random number is any other number. Therefore, in this case, the probability of a jackpot is approximately 1/219.9, the probability of a minor jackpot is approximately 1/4, and the miss probability is approximately 3/4.

Furthermore, when the setting value is set to 2 to 6 (registered setting value = 2 to 6), the big prize lottery is conducted by referencing the special 2 jackpot determining random number judgment tables b to f, respectively, as shown in Figures 69(b) to (f). According to the special 2 jackpot determining random number judgment table of the embodiment, as is clear from a comparison of Figures 68 and 69, if the registered setting value is the same, the probability of winning a jackpot is the same for the special 1 jackpot determining random number judgment table and the special 2 jackpot determining random number judgment table.

Figure 70 is a diagram illustrating a winning symbol random number determination table according to an embodiment. The winning symbol random number determination table according to the embodiment is used in place of the winning symbol random number determination table according to the above reference example. Here, in the above reference example, if a big win or small win is won in the big win lottery, the big win symbol or small win symbol is determined by referring to the winning symbol random number determination table. Then, if the result of the big win lottery is a loss, the type of special symbol, i.e., the losing symbol, is determined by the reserve type without using the winning symbol random number determination table.

In contrast, in the embodiment, even if the result of the big prize lottery is a loss, the special symbol, i.e., the losing symbol, is determined by referring to the winning symbol random number determination table. Specifically, if a "big prize" is won by special 1 reservation, special 1 winning symbol random number determination table a is selected, as shown in Figure 70(a), and if the result of the big prize lottery based on special 1 reservation is a loss, special 1 winning symbol random number determination table b is selected, as shown in Figure 70(b).

As shown in Figure 70 (a), when a jackpot is won based on a special 1 reserved number, special patterns A and B are determined as the jackpot patterns. Specifically, according to special 1 winning pattern random number determination table a, if the winning pattern random number is between 0 and 1, special pattern A, which is the jackpot pattern, is determined, and if the winning pattern random number is between 2 and 99, special pattern B, which is the jackpot pattern, is determined. Therefore, when a jackpot is won based on a special 1 reserved number, the probability that special pattern A will be determined is 2%, and the probability that special pattern B will be determined is 98%.

Also, as shown in Figure 70 (b), if the result of the major role lottery based on the special 1 reserved is a loss, the special symbol X will always be determined as the loss symbol, regardless of the value of the winning symbol random number.

In addition, if a "big win" is won by a special 2 reserve, the special 2 winning symbol random number determination table a is selected as shown in Figure 70 (c), if a "small win" is won by a special 2 reserve, the special 2 winning symbol random number determination table b is selected as shown in Figure 70 (d), and if the result of the big win lottery based on the special 2 reserve is a loss, the special 2 winning symbol random number determination table c is selected as shown in Figure 70 (e).

As shown in Figure 70 (c), when a jackpot is won based on the Special 2 reserved number, special symbols C, D, and E are determined as the jackpot symbol. Specifically, according to the Special 2 winning symbol random number determination table A, if the winning symbol random number is between 0 and 39, the jackpot symbol, special symbol C, is determined; if the winning symbol random number is between 40 and 87, the jackpot symbol, special symbol D, is determined; and if the winning symbol random number is between 88 and 99, the jackpot symbol, special symbol E, is determined. Therefore, when a jackpot is won based on the Special 2 reserved number, the probability that special symbol C will be determined is 40%, the probability that special symbol D will be determined is 48%, and the probability that special symbol E will be determined is 12%.

Also, as shown in Figure 70 (d), if a small win is won based on the special 2 reserved number, special patterns a and b are determined as the small win pattern. Specifically, according to special 2 winning pattern random number determination table b, if the winning pattern random number is 0 to 87, special pattern a, which is the small win pattern, is determined, and if the winning pattern random number is 88 to 99, special pattern b, which is the small win pattern, is determined. Therefore, if a small win is won based on the special 2 reserved number, the probability that special pattern a will be determined is 88%, and the probability that special pattern b will be determined is 12%.

Also, as shown in Figure 70 (e), if the result of the major role lottery based on the special 2 reserve is a loss, special pattern Z is determined as the loss symbol. Specifically, according to the special 2 winning symbol random number determination table c, special pattern Z, which is the loss symbol, is determined regardless of the value of the winning symbol random number.

Note that here, the selection ratio for the big win symbol and the small win symbol is the same for all setting values, but the selection ratio for one or more of the big win symbol and the small win symbol may be different for each setting value.

Also, for example, if the result of the major role lottery based on the special 2 reserved is a miss, the special patterns Y and Z may each be set to be determined with a predetermined probability.Also, if the result of the major role lottery based on the special 1 reserved is a miss, the special patterns X and Z may each be set with a predetermined probability.

Figure 71 is a diagram illustrating a special 2 variable time determination table according to an embodiment. In the embodiment, when the variable mode number for special 2 reservation is determined, variable time 1 is determined according to the special 2 variable time 1 determination table shown in Figure 71(a) instead of the variable time 1 determination table shown in Figure 12(a) described above. According to this variable time 1 determination table, variable time 1 is associated with each variable mode number, and the corresponding variable time 1 is determined according to the determined variable mode number. In the embodiment, according to the special 2 variable time 1 determination table, variable time 1 is always determined to be 0 seconds.

Furthermore, once the fluctuation pattern number for the Special 2 Reserve is determined, fluctuation time 2 is determined according to the Special 2 Fluctuation Time 2 Determination Table shown in FIG. 71(b) instead of the Fluctuation Time 2 Determination Table shown in FIG. 12(b) described above. According to this Fluctuation Time 2 Determination Table, a Fluctuation Time 2 is associated with each fluctuation pattern number, and the corresponding Fluctuation Time 2 is determined according to the determined fluctuation pattern number. In this embodiment, according to the Special 2 Fluctuation Time 2 Determination Table, 10 seconds is always determined as Fluctuation Time 2. The total time of Fluctuation Times 1 and 2 determined in this way is the time for the fluctuation presentation that notifies the result of the major role lottery for the Special 2 Reserve, i.e., the fluctuation time.

Figure 72 is a diagram illustrating the first special electric feature activation ram set table according to the embodiment, and Figure 73 is a diagram illustrating the second special electric feature activation ram set table according to the embodiment. The first special electric feature activation ram set table and the second special electric feature activation ram set table according to the embodiment are used in place of the first special electric feature activation ram set table and the second special electric feature activation ram set table according to the above reference example.

When the special symbols A, B, C, D, and E, which are the jackpot symbols, are determined, an opening/closing process is executed to control the opening and closing of the first large prize opening 126 in a predetermined opening/closing pattern, with reference to the first special electric device activation ram set table, as shown in FIG. 72. Furthermore, when the special symbols a and b, which are the small prize symbols, are determined, an opening/closing process is executed to control the opening and closing of the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 in a predetermined opening/closing pattern, with reference to the second special electric device activation ram set table, as shown in FIG. 73. The big prize game consists of multiple rounds of play in which the first large prize opening 126 is opened and closed a predetermined number of times, and the small prize game consists of only one round of play in which the second large prize opening 128 is opened and closed a predetermined number of times.

In this embodiment, if the special jackpot symbols A, B, D, or E are determined, a big win game consisting of three rounds of play is executed, and if the special symbol C is determined, a big win game consisting of ten rounds of play is executed. Each round of play ends when the specified number (10) of game balls enter the first big win opening 126, or when a specified time (29.0 seconds) has elapsed since the first big win opening 126 was opened.

When a game ball lands in the big prize slot, 15 game balls are paid out as prize balls for each ball that lands. The specified number of balls in one round of play is 10, and since the number of prize balls for each ball that lands is 15, a player can win 150 prize balls in one round of play. Therefore, if special patterns A, B, D, or E are selected, a player can win 450 prize balls in one big prize play, and if special pattern C is selected, a player can win 1,500 prize balls in one big prize play.

Also, as shown in Figure 73, when special symbols a and b, which are small win symbols, are determined, a small win game consisting of one round of play is first executed. In this small win game, the second large prize opening 128 is opened and closed. At this time, regardless of the type of small win symbol, in the small win game, the second large prize opening 128 is repeatedly opened for 0.1 seconds and closed for 3.0 seconds 10 times.

The second large prize opening 128 is provided with a specific area 140b and a non-specific area 140c inside, and a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 will always enter either the specific area 140b or the non-specific area 140c. If a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 enters the specific area 140b during a small prize game, a Type 2 jackpot is won, and following the small prize game, a large prize game is played in which the first large prize opening 126 is opened.

At this time, if special symbol a, which is the small win symbol, is selected, 10 rounds (R2-R11) of play will be played in which the first large prize opening 126 is opened once every 29.0 seconds. Also, if special symbol b, which is the small win symbol, is selected, 3 rounds (R2-R4) of play will be played in which the first large prize opening 126 is opened once every 29.0 seconds.

In the above reference example, the opening and closing mode of the second large prize opening 128 differs depending on the type of small prize symbol. The opening and closing mode of the second large prize opening 128 and the operating mode of the movable member 142 realize a small prize game in which the gaming ball can enter the specific area 140b, and a small prize game in which the gaming ball cannot enter the specific area 140b.

In contrast, in the embodiment, the opening and closing manner of the second large prize opening 128 is the same regardless of the type of small prize symbol, and in any small prize game, a game ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 enters the specific area 140b. Furthermore, although detailed explanation is omitted, the movable piece 128b that opens and closes the second large prize opening 128 is formed in a corrugated shape, and a game ball that falls onto the movable piece 128b rolls on the movable piece 128b for several seconds. Therefore, if game balls are continuously fired toward the second game area 116b during a small prize game, the game balls will reliably enter the second large prize opening 128. In this way, in the embodiment, as long as the player is playing appropriately, it is possible to ensure that game balls enter the specific area 140b during a small prize game, regardless of the type of small prize symbol.

Figure 74 is a diagram illustrating a game status setting table according to an embodiment. The game status setting table according to the embodiment is used in place of the game status setting table according to the above reference example. In the embodiment, when a jackpot is won in the major prize lottery, or when a type 2 jackpot is won in the minor prize game, the game status is set according to the type of special symbol that was won.

Here, in this embodiment, a non-time-saving game state and a time-saving game state are provided as game states. The non-time-saving game state is the initial state of the gaming machine 100, and the time-saving game state is a state in which a game ball is more likely to enter the second start hole 122 than in the non-time-saving game state. In other words, opening conditions for opening the second start hole 122 are set for each game state, and opening conditions are set for the time-saving game state in which a game ball is more likely to enter the second start hole 122 than in the non-time-saving game state.

If a jackpot is won in the big prize lottery, i.e., if a so-called type 1 jackpot is won, the game state after the big prize game will be set to the time-saving game state, regardless of the type of jackpot symbol determined.

If a game ball enters the specific area 140b during a small win game after winning a small win in the big win lottery, i.e., if a type 2 big win is won, the game state after the big win game will be set to a time-saving game state regardless of the type of small win symbol determined.

In addition, in this embodiment, the number of normal symbol changes is set as a time-saving termination condition for terminating the time-saving game state. The number of normal symbol changes is the number of symbol change processes (hereinafter referred to as normal symbol changes) based on the reserved normal symbol, i.e., the number of normal game plays. When this time-saving termination condition is met, the time-saving game state ends and the game state transitions to a non-time-saving game state.

Here, the number of normal map variations is set to 100. Therefore, for example, if a Type 1 or Type 2 jackpot is not won during 100 normal map variations in the time-saving game state, the game state will transition from the time-saving game state to the non-time-saving game state. Also, in this embodiment, at the end of the 100th normal map variation in the time-saving game state, the game state will transition to the non-time-saving game state.

In addition, in the time-saving game state, the game state may transition to a non-time-saving game state at the start of the 100th normal symbol fluctuation. Also, the conditions for ending the time-saving game may differ, for example, depending on the type of big win symbol or small win symbol, such as by varying the number of normal symbol fluctuations.

Figure 75 is a diagram illustrating a special symbol confirmation time determination table according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 75, in this embodiment, the special symbol variation stop time (hereinafter also referred to as confirmation time), which is the time for which the special symbol is displayed in a static manner, is set to 0.5 seconds. Note that different confirmation times may be determined based on the game state and the type of special symbol.

Figure 76 is a diagram illustrating a win determination random number judgment table according to an embodiment. The win determination random number judgment table according to the embodiment is used in place of the win determination random number judgment table according to the above reference example. In the embodiment, when a gaming ball passes through gate 124, one win determination random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 65535, and this random number value is stored in the general game reserve memory area of main RAM 300c, with a maximum of four values.

In this embodiment, two normal symbols, normal symbols A and B, are provided. Both of these two normal symbols are winning symbols. Therefore, in this embodiment, when a normal symbol lottery is held, the second start opening 122 is always opened. However, as will be described in more detail later, the opening and closing state of the second start opening 122 differs depending on the combination of the game state and the type of winning symbol at the time of the normal symbol lottery.

In this embodiment, the all-state win determination random number judgment table is referenced regardless of the game state, as shown in Figure 76. In other words, in this embodiment, the winning probability of each normal symbol is the same for all game states. According to the all-state win determination random number judgment table, when the win determination random number is between 0 and 64874, normal symbol A is determined as the type of normal symbol, and when the win determination random number is between 64875 and 65535, normal symbol B is determined as the type of normal symbol. Therefore, the probabilities of determining normal symbols A and B are approximately 98/99 and 1/99, respectively.

Figure 77 is a diagram illustrating a normal symbol confirmation time determination table according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 77, in an embodiment, the normal symbol variation stop time (hereinafter also referred to as the confirmation time), which is the time for which a normal symbol is statically displayed, is set based on a combination of the game state and the type of normal symbol at the time of the normal symbol lottery. As shown in Figure 77, according to the normal symbol confirmation time determination table, if the game state at the time of the normal symbol lottery is a non-time-saving game state, the confirmation time is set to 0.5 seconds regardless of the type of normal symbol. Also, if the game state at the time of the normal symbol lottery is a time-saving game state, and normal symbol A is determined as the type of normal symbol, the confirmation time is set to 0.004 seconds, and if normal symbol B is determined as the type of normal symbol, the confirmation time is set to 0.5 seconds.

Figure 78(a) is a diagram explaining a normal pattern fluctuation time data table according to an embodiment, and Figure 78(b) is a diagram explaining an opening/closing control pattern table according to an embodiment. The normal pattern fluctuation time data table and opening/closing control pattern table according to the embodiment are used in place of the normal pattern fluctuation time data table and opening/closing control pattern table according to the above reference example. According to the normal pattern fluctuation time data table according to the embodiment, when the game state is set to a non-time-saving game state, the fluctuation time is determined to be 5 seconds, and when the game state is set to a time-saving game state, the fluctuation time is determined to be anywhere from 2 seconds to 1 minute.

In the embodiment, in the time-saving game mode, a normal symbol fluctuation command corresponding to the determined fluctuation time is sent to the sub-control board 330, and a fluctuation effect based on a normal symbol, such as the above-mentioned reference example, is executed based on the normal symbol fluctuation command. In this fluctuation effect based on a normal symbol, a suggestion that normal symbol B will be won may be made.

Then, when a winning symbol is determined by the regular symbol lottery and the determined winning symbol is displayed on the regular symbol display 168, the movable piece 122b of the second starting opening 122 is controlled to energize by referring to the opening/closing control pattern table, as shown in Figure 78 (b). In reality, an opening/closing control pattern table is provided for each combination of game state and winning symbol type, and the table corresponding to the combination of the current game state and the determined winning symbol is set when the regular electric role solenoid 122c begins to energize.

According to the opening/closing control pattern table, the following control data for the second start port 122 are pre-stored as shown in the figure for each combination of game status and winning symbol type: time before normal power release (waiting time until the second start port 122 begins to open), maximum number of normal electric role opening/closing switches (number of times the second start port 122 opens), solenoid power supply time (power supply time for the normal electric role solenoid 122c for each opening of the second start port 122, i.e., the opening time of the second start port 122 per opening), specified number (maximum number of wins that can be made through the second start port 122 while it is fully open), normal power closing effective time (the closing time between each opening of the second start port 122 during which a winning ball is considered to have entered the second start port 122), and normal power end wait time (waiting time from the end of the final opening of the second start port 122 until the display of the changing normal symbols resumes).

Specifically, when a winning symbol is determined in the non-time-saving game mode, the second start opening 122 is opened only once for 0.052 seconds, regardless of the type of winning symbol. While a detailed explanation will be omitted, in this embodiment, the second start opening 122 is configured so that a gaming ball will not enter the second start opening 122 when it is opened once for 0.052 seconds. Therefore, in the non-time-saving game mode, a gaming ball will not enter the second start opening 122. Furthermore, when a winning symbol is determined in the non-time-saving game mode, regardless of the type of winning symbol, the normal power pre-opening time is set to 1.0 second, the normal power closing effective time is set to 0.44 seconds, and the normal power end wait time is set to 0.44 seconds.

Furthermore, in the time-saving play state, the opening and closing pattern of the second start opening 122 differs depending on the type of winning symbol determined. In the time-saving play state, if a normal symbol A is selected, the second start opening 122 is opened only once for 0.052 seconds. On the other hand, in the time-saving play state, if a normal symbol B is selected, the second start opening 122 is opened twice in total, once for 5.5 seconds and once for 0.1 seconds. While a detailed explanation is omitted, in this embodiment, the opening is 5.5 seconds once, and as long as the player properly launches the game ball into the second play area 116b, the game ball is always configured to enter the second start opening 122. Therefore, if a normal symbol B is selected in the time-saving play state, the game ball will definitely enter the second start opening 122 as long as the player is playing properly.

Also, if normal pattern A is won during time-saving play, the time before normal power is released is set to 0.004 seconds, the effective time for normal power to be closed is set to 0.44 seconds, and the wait time for normal power to end is set to 0.44 seconds.Also, if normal pattern B is won during time-saving play, the time before normal power is released is set to 0.1 seconds, the effective time for the first normal power to be closed is set to 0.1 seconds, the effective time for the second normal power to be closed is set to 0.6 seconds, and the wait time for normal power to end is set to 50.0 seconds.

In other words, it is possible to set the normal power end wait time (0.44 seconds) when an opening/closing process is performed to control the opening and closing of the second starting port 122 using the first opening/closing pattern (a pattern in which the second starting port 122 is opened once every 0.052 seconds when a normal symbol A is won in the time-shortened game mode, or when a normal symbol A or normal symbol B is won in the non-time-shortened game mode) to be different from the normal power end wait time (50.0 seconds) when an opening/closing process is performed to control the opening and closing of the second starting port 122 using the second opening/closing pattern (a pattern in which the second starting port 122 is opened twice in total, once every 5.5 seconds and once every 0.1 seconds when a normal symbol B is won in the time-shortened game mode).

In addition, it is possible to set different wait times for normal power termination in normal play in non-time-saving play mode (0.44 seconds for normal power termination when normal symbol A or normal symbol B is won in non-time-saving play mode) and normal power termination wait time in normal play in time-saving play mode (50.0 seconds for normal power termination when normal symbol B is won in time-saving play mode).

In this way, opening and closing conditions for opening and closing the second start gate 122 are associated as game progress conditions for each type of normal symbol in the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state. The opening and closing conditions for the second start gate 122 stipulate four elements: the probability of winning a normal symbol, the time for the variable display of the normal symbol, the time for the normal symbol to be confirmed, and the opening and closing control pattern of the second start gate 122. However, the opening and closing conditions in the embodiment are merely an example. The opening and closing conditions for the second start gate 122 can be modified as appropriate within the scope of realizing the gameplay of the gaming machine 100 described below. Specifically, for example, the normal power end wait time when normal symbol A is won in the time-saving game state may be set to 0.50 seconds, and the normal power end wait time when normal symbol A or normal symbol B is won in the non-time-saving game state may be set to 0.44 seconds, so that the time-saving game state is longer.

Next, we will explain the gameplay, or game flow, of the gaming machine 100 configured as described above.

Figure 79 is a diagram illustrating gameplay according to an embodiment. The gaming machine 100 according to the embodiment is initially set to a non-time-saving game state. In the embodiment, a first start port 120 is provided in the first game area 116a, and a second start port 122, gate 124, and special prize port are provided in the second game area 116b. Therefore, in the non-time-saving game state, game balls must flow down to the first game area 116a, and in the time-saving game state and during special prize play, game balls must flow down to the second game area 116b. Figure 79 shows the game flow when gameplay is being performed appropriately; cases where gameplay is being performed improperly or where irregular situations occur are not shown. Note that the game flow will be described below when the registration setting value is 1.

In the non-time-saving game mode shown in Figure 79 (a), the player must use the so-called left hand to place the game ball in the first start hole 120. When the game ball enters the first start hole 120, up to four special 1 reserves are stored. The special 1 reserves are read out sequentially, and a lottery for a big win is held based on the read special 1 reserves. The probability of winning a jackpot at this time is approximately 1 in 219.9. In the non-time-saving game mode, the game is played with the aim of winning a jackpot through a lottery for a big win based on the special 1 reserves.

When a jackpot is won in the big prize lottery based on the special 1 reserved ball in the non-time-saving game mode, special symbol A is determined as the jackpot symbol with a 2% probability, and special symbol B is determined with a 98% probability. If special symbols A and B are determined, a big prize game consisting of three rounds of play (hereinafter referred to as 3R big prize game) is executed, as shown in Figure 79 (b). Then, as shown in Figure 79 (c), the game state after the 3R big prize game is set to the time-saving game state.

In this embodiment, the main objective in the time-saving game mode is to pass the game ball through gate 124 and execute normal game play. Therefore, as shown in (c) of Figure 79, when the time-saving game mode is set, the player must launch the game ball toward second game area 116b and pass the game ball through gate 124.

As mentioned above, in the time-saving play state, a winning symbol is always drawn in the normal drawing. However, in the time-saving play state, if normal symbol A is drawn, the second start port 122 is only opened once for 0.052 seconds, and no game balls will enter the second start port 122. On the other hand, if normal symbol B is drawn, the second start port 122 is opened twice, once for 5.5 seconds and once for 0.1 seconds, ensuring that a game ball can enter the second start port 122. Therefore, in the time-saving play state, unless normal symbol B is drawn in the normal drawing, the major role drawing, in other words, the special 2 variation, will not be executed. Hereinafter, the opening of the second start port 122 once for 0.052 seconds will be referred to as a short opening, and the opening of the second start port 122 twice, once for 5.5 seconds and once for 0.1 seconds, will be referred to as a long opening.

If the game ball is launched properly, when the second start port 122 is long-opened, a special 2 variation will be initiated based on the game ball that first entered the second start port 122. During this special 2 variation, the variation time is set to 10 seconds, as described above. Also, as described above, during the long opening of the second start port 122, the second start port 122 is opened a total of two times: once for 5.5 seconds and once for 0.1 seconds. In other words, the long opening of the second start port 122 will end before the special 2 variation executed based on the game ball that first entered the second start port 122 ends after the long opening of the second start port 122.

Furthermore, if the game balls are released appropriately, when the second starting port 122 is opened long, four Special 2 reserves can be obtained between the start of the Special 2 variation based on the game ball that first enters the second starting port 122 and the end of the long opening of the second starting port 122. In this way, if the game balls are released appropriately, when the second starting port 122 is opened long, the player can obtain the right to five Special 2 variations.

In the time-saving game state, there is a probability of approximately 1/99 of winning the normal symbol B in the normal symbol lottery. In other words, in the time-saving game state, the probability of the second starting port 122 being fully opened is approximately 1/99. Furthermore, in the time-saving game state, 100 normal symbol changes are set as the condition for ending the time-saving game. Therefore, when 100 normal symbol lotteries are executed in the time-saving game state, the so-called time-saving end occurs, and the game state transitions to a non-time-saving game state. In other words, in the embodiment, in the time-saving game state, the player first aims to win the normal symbol B in 100 or fewer normal symbol lotteries.

When normal symbol B is hit during time-saving play, the second start port 122 opens long, allowing the player to place a game ball into the second start port 122. When a game ball enters the second start port 122, a lottery for a big prize is held; at this time, the probability of winning a big prize is approximately 1/219.9, the probability of winning a small prize is approximately 1/4, and the probability of losing is approximately 3/4. As described above, if the game ball is released appropriately, when the second start port 122 opens long, the player will be entitled to five special 2 variations. The goal of the game for the player is to win a small prize or a big prize during these five special 2 variations.

If the result of the big prize lottery is a loss, the special symbol Z will always be determined as the losing symbol. If all of the above maximum five special 2 variations are losses, the player will once again aim to win the regular symbol B.

On the other hand, if a player wins a jackpot in the big prize lottery, the jackpot symbol will be special symbol C with a probability of 40%, special symbol D with a probability of 48%, and special symbol E with a probability of 12%. Also, if a player wins a small prize, the small prize symbol will be special symbol A with a probability of 88%, and special symbol B with a probability of 12%.

When special symbols D and E, which are jackpot symbols, are determined, 3R big win gameplay is executed as shown in (e) of Figure 79, and the game state after 3R big win gameplay is set to the time-saving game state shown in (c) of Figure 79. Also, when special symbol b, which is a small win symbol, is determined, a type 2 jackpot is won through small win gameplay, and 3R big win gameplay is executed as shown in (e) of Figure 79, and the game state after 3R big win gameplay is set to the time-saving game state shown in (c) of Figure 79.

Furthermore, if special symbol C, which is the jackpot symbol, is determined, 10R big win game is executed as shown in (f) of Figure 79, and the game state after 10R big win game is set to the time-saving game state shown in (c) of Figure 79. Furthermore, if special symbol A, which is the small win symbol, is determined, a type 2 jackpot is won through small win game, and 10R big win game is executed as shown in (f) of Figure 79, and the game state after 10R big win game is set to the time-saving game state shown in (c) of Figure 79.

The following describes the processing on the main control board 300 to implement the above game flow. Note that the following describes changes from the above reference example, and omits explanations of other processing.

Figure 80 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol stop symbol display processing in the main control board 300 according to the embodiment. The special symbol stop symbol display processing according to the embodiment is executed in place of the special symbol stop symbol display processing according to the reference example described above.

(Step S630-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special game timer set in step S620-21 is 0. If it is determined that the timer value of the special game timer is not 0, the main CPU 300a ends the special symbol stop symbol display process, and if it is determined that the timer value of the special game timer is 0, the process proceeds to step S630-3.

(Step S630-3)
The main CPU 300a checks the result of the big role lottery.

(Step S630-5)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the result of the big win lottery is a jackpot. If it is determined to be a jackpot, the process proceeds to step S630-15. If it is determined not to be a jackpot, the process proceeds to step S630-7.

(Step S630-7)
The main CPU 300a sets a game state confirmation designation command at the time of special symbol determination, which indicates the game state when the special symbol is determined, in a transmission buffer.

(Step S630-9)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the result of the major role lottery is a small win. If it is determined to be a small win, the process proceeds to step S630-13. If it is determined not to be a small win, the process proceeds to step S630-11.

(Step S630-11)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "00H" and ends the special symbol stop symbol display process. This ends the special game management process based on the reservation of 1, and if special 1 reservation or special 2 reservation is stored, processing will be performed to start the variable display of the special symbol based on the next reservation.

(Step S630-13)
The main CPU 300a stores (saves) the game state at the time of winning the small jackpot in the processing storage area of the main RAM 300c.

(Step S630-15)
The main CPU 300a resets (sets) the gaming state to the initial state, that is, the non-time-shortening gaming state.

(Step S630-17)
The main CPU 300a sets data in a special electric accessory operation RAM set table according to the type of the determined special symbol.

(Step S630-19)
The main CPU 300a performs a process for setting the maximum number of times a special electric device is operated. Specifically, by referencing the data set in step S630-17, a predetermined number (the counter value corresponding to the type of special symbol = the number of rounds) is set as the counter value in the special electric device maximum number of times operation is cut off counter. This special electric device maximum number of times operation is cut off counter indicates the number of rounds that can be executed in the upcoming major role game. Meanwhile, the main RAM 300c is provided with a special electric device continuous operation number of times cut off counter, and the current number of rounds is managed by adding "1" to the counter value of the special electric device continuous operation number of times cut off counter at the start of each round of play. Here, a process for resetting (updating to "0") the counter value of this special electric device continuous operation number of times cut off counter is also executed upon the start of the major role game.

(Step S630-21)
The main CPU 300a refers to the data set in step S630-17 and saves a predetermined opening time as a timer value in the special game timer.

(Step S630-23)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer an opening designation command for transmitting the start of a major win game or a minor win game to the sub-control board 330. This opening designation command is provided for each opening time, and here, the opening designation command corresponding to the opening time saved in step S630-21 is set in the transmission buffer.

(Step S630-25)
If the result of the big win lottery confirmed in step S630-3 is a big win, the main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "03H", and if it is a small win, it updates the special game management phase to "07H" and ends the special symbol stop symbol display process. This starts the big win game or small win game.

Figure 81 is a flowchart explaining the special prize opening end wait processing in the main control board 300 according to the embodiment. The special prize opening end wait processing according to the embodiment is executed in place of the special prize opening end wait processing according to the reference example described above.

(Step S670-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special game timer saved in step S660-7 is 0. If it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is not 0, it ends the wait process for the end of the special prize slot, and if it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is 0, it proceeds to step S671.

(Step S671)
The main CPU 300a executes a state setting process for setting the game state after the end of the big win game. This state setting process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S670-5)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer a game state change designation command for transmitting the game state and variable state that are set after the end of the big win game.

(Step S670-7)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer a number-of-times designation command corresponding to the time-saving number of times saved in step S671.

(Step S670-9)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "00H" and ends the waiting process for the end of the special winning slot. As a result, if the special 1 reserve or the special 2 reserve is stored, the variable display of the special symbol will be resumed.

Figure 82 is a flowchart explaining the status setting process on the main control board 300 in this embodiment.

(Step S671-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the special game management phase is 06H, i.e., whether the big win game has ended. If it is determined that the big win game has ended, the process proceeds to step S671-3, and if it is determined that the big win game has not ended (the small win game has ended), the process proceeds to step S671-5.

(Step S671-3)
The main CPU 300a sets the game state after the big win game by referring to the game state setting table based on the type of the special symbol that has been stopped and ends the state setting process. Here, the counter value of the normal symbol variation counter is set based on the set game state.

(Step S671-5)
The main CPU 300a resets the game state saved in step S630-13 and ends the state setting process. As a result, if a small win is won but a type 2 jackpot is not won, the game state before the small win is won continues.

Figure 83 is a diagram illustrating the normal game management phase according to the embodiment. In the embodiment, the main control board 300 manages each process related to normal games using the normal game management phase shown in Figure 83, instead of the normal game management phase according to the above reference example.

As shown in FIG. 83, main ROM 300b stores multiple normal game control modules for controlling the execution of normal games, and each normal game control module is associated with a normal game management phase. Specifically, when the normal game management phase is "00H," a module for executing "normal symbol change waiting processing" is called; when the normal game management phase is "01H," a module for executing "normal symbol change in progress processing" is called; when the normal game management phase is "02H," a module for executing "normal symbol stop symbol display processing" is called; when the normal game management phase is "03H," a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening pre-processing" is called; when the normal game management phase is "04H," a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening control processing" is called; and when the normal game management phase is "05H," a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening end wait processing" is called.

Figure 84 is a flowchart explaining the normal pattern change waiting process in the main control board 300 according to the embodiment. The normal pattern change waiting process according to the embodiment is executed in place of the normal pattern change waiting process according to the reference example above. Note that the normal pattern change waiting process according to the embodiment differs from the normal pattern change waiting process according to the reference example above in that step S710-20 is added between steps S710-19 and S710-21, but the rest of the process is the same as the normal pattern change waiting process according to the reference example above. Therefore, explanations of processes other than step S710-20 will be omitted here.

(Step S710-20)
The main CPU 300a stores the game state when the normal symbol winning determination process of step S710-5 is executed in the processing storage area of the main RAM 300c.

Figure 85 is a flowchart illustrating the normal symbol stopping symbol display processing in the main control board 300 according to the embodiment. The normal symbol stopping symbol display processing according to the embodiment is executed in place of the normal symbol stopping symbol display processing according to the reference example above. Note that the normal symbol stopping symbol display processing according to the embodiment differs in that step S731 is added between step S730-3 and step S730-5 of the normal symbol stopping symbol display processing according to the reference example above, step S730-8 is added between step S730-5 and step S730-9 of the normal symbol stopping symbol display processing according to the reference example above, and step S730-10 is added between step S730-9 and step S730-11 of the normal symbol stopping symbol display processing according to the reference example above; otherwise, the processing is basically the same as the normal symbol stopping symbol display processing according to the reference example above. Therefore, we will omit explanations of processes other than steps S731, S730-8, S730-9, and S730-10.

(Step S731)
The main CPU 300a executes a number cut management process, which will be described later.

(Step S730-8)
The main CPU 300a acquires the game state when the normal symbol winning determination process stored in step S710-20 was executed.

(Step S730-9)
Based on the game status acquired in step S730-8, the main CPU 300a refers to the data in the opening/closing control pattern table and saves the time before normal power release as a timer value in the normal game timer.

(Step S730-10)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer an opening designation command indicating the start of the auxiliary game in which the second start opening 122 is opened. This opening designation command transmits the start of the auxiliary game to the sub-control board 330.

Figure 86 is a flowchart explaining the cutoff management process on the main control board 300 in this embodiment.

(Step S731-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the game state is in the time-shortened game state. If it is determined that the game state is in the time-shortened game state, the process proceeds to step S731-3. If it is determined that the game state is not in the time-shortened game state, the process ends.

(Step S731-3)
The main CPU 300a decrements the counter value of the time-saving cut-off counter.

(Step S731-5)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer a number designation command corresponding to the counter value of the time-saving number cut counter updated in step S731-3.

(Step S731-7)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the time-saving number-of-times-off counter updated in step S731-3 is 0. If it is determined that the counter value of the time-saving number-of-times-off counter is 0, the process proceeds to step S731-9, and if it is determined that the counter value of the time-saving number-of-times-off counter is not 0, the number-of-times-off management process is terminated.

(Step S731-9)
The main CPU 300a sets the gaming state to the non-time-reduction gaming state. Here, the counter value of the time-reduction cut-off counter is reset (to 0).

(Step S731-11)
The main CPU 300a sets a game state change designation command indicating the game state, and ends the number cut management process.

Figure 87 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric device prize opening/closing switching process on the main control board 300 according to the embodiment. The normal electric device prize opening/closing switching process according to the embodiment is executed in place of the normal electric device prize opening/closing switching process according to the above reference example. Note that the normal electric device prize opening/closing switching process according to the embodiment is the same as the normal electric device prize opening/closing switching process according to the above reference example in steps S741-1 to S741-9, but differs from the normal electric device prize opening/closing switching process according to the above reference example in steps S741-11 and after. Therefore, the process from step S741-11 onwards will be explained here, and the process before step S741-11 will not be explained.

(Step S741-11)
When the auxiliary game is in the power-on state, that is, when the second start port 122 starts to open (YES in step S741-9), the main CPU 300a sets a normal power opening designation command indicating the start of opening of the second start port 122 in the transmission buffer.

(Step S741-13)
The main CPU 300a updates the counter value of the normal electric role opening/closing switching number counter to a value obtained by adding "1" to the current counter value, and ends the normal electric role winning port opening/closing switching process.

(Step S741-15)
If the auxiliary game is not in the power-on state, that is, if the second start port 122 has finished opening (NO in step S741-9), the main CPU 300a sets a normal power closure designation command indicating that the second start port 122 has finished opening in the transmission buffer, and terminates the normal electric role winning port opening/closing switching process.

Figure 88 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric feature winning slot opening control process on the main control board according to the embodiment. The normal electric feature winning slot opening control process according to the embodiment is executed in place of the normal electric feature winning slot opening control process according to the above reference example. Note that the normal electric feature winning slot opening control process according to the embodiment is the same as the normal electric feature winning slot opening control process according to the above reference example in steps S750-1 to S750-7, but differs from the normal electric feature winning slot opening control process according to the above reference example in the processing from step S750-9 onwards. Therefore, the processing from step S750-9 onwards will be explained here, and the processing before step S750-7 will not be explained.

(Step S750-9)
The main CPU 300a saves the normal power end wait time in the normal game timer.

(Step S750-11)
The main CPU 300a saves the normal power closing effective time in the normal power closing effective time timer. As described above, in the embodiment, the normal power closing effective time is not the time for managing the normal game management phase, but the time for treating the entry of a game ball into the second start port 122 as valid.

(Step S750-13)
The main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "05H".

(Step S750-15)
The main CPU 300a sets a normal power ending designation command indicating the start of the normal power end wait time in the transmission buffer, and ends the normal electric role winning opening control process.

Figure 89 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric feature winning slot end wait processing on the main control board according to the embodiment. The normal electric feature winning slot end wait processing according to the embodiment is executed in place of the normal electric feature winning slot end wait processing according to the above reference example. Note that in the normal electric feature winning slot end wait processing according to the embodiment, the processing of step S760-1 is the same as the normal electric feature winning slot end wait processing according to the above reference example, but the processing from step S750-3 onwards differs from the normal electric feature winning slot end wait processing according to the above reference example. Therefore, the processing from step S750-3 onwards will be explained here, and the processing of step S750-1 will not be explained.

(Step S760-3)
If the timer value of the normal game timer saved in step S750-9 is "0" (NO in step S760-1), the main CPU 300a updates the normal game management phase to "00H" and ends the normal electric accessory winning port end wait process. As a result, if a normal symbol reservation is stored, the variable display of the normal symbol will resume.

The above-described processing on the main control board 300 realizes the game flow shown in Figure 79. Here, in the gaming machine 100 according to the embodiment, when the time-saving game mode is set, winning the long release is the main opportunity for winning a large number of prize balls.

In an embodiment, during the time-saving game mode, a variable effect based on a normal symbol or a variable effect based on a special symbol is executed. The variable effect based on a normal symbol is an effect that suggests or notifies the result of the normal symbol lottery, and is executed based on the result of the normal symbol lottery. Furthermore, the variable effect based on a special symbol is an effect that suggests or notifies the result of the major role lottery, and is executed based on the result of the major role lottery.

Figure 90 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation request effect according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 90(a), in a variable effect based on a normal symbol, a variable effect similar to the above-mentioned reference example is executed. Also, as shown in Figure 90(a), a remaining time-saving number image is displayed at the top of the main effect display section 200a, which notifies the number of remaining time-saving times in the time-saving game state.

In the time-saving play state, if a normal symbol B that causes the second starting port 122 to be opened long is drawn, a chance zone effect is executed. In the chance zone effect, the effect symbol corresponding to the chance zone is displayed as a stopped effect symbol 210b in the main effect display section 200a. Note that the effect shown in Figure 90 is executed when a normal symbol lottery that results in a long opening is drawn in the time-saving play state, and is not executed in the non-time-saving play state or when a short opening is drawn in the time-saving play state.

When the long opening of the second starting hole 122 begins, the right-hit notification effect shown in Figure 90 (b) begins. During the right-hit notification effect, the main effect display unit 200a displays the message "Hit right," along with an arrow pointing to the second game area 116b. In this way, the right-hit notification effect is an effect that encourages the player to perform the firing operation to launch the game ball into the second game area 116b, i.e., the firing operation to cause the game ball to enter the second starting hole 122.

When a gaming ball enters the second starting hole 122 during the long opening, an operation request effect is executed based on the stored special 2 hold. When an operation request effect is executed, as shown in FIG. 90(c), the operation validity period of the effect button 208 is set and at the same time a button image is displayed on the main effect display unit 200a prompting the player to press the effect button 208. For example, multiple execution patterns for the operation request effect may be provided, and the type of button image (e.g., color or pattern) displayed on the main effect display unit 200a may be different for each execution pattern. Also, for example, the type of button image displayed on the main effect display unit 200a may indicate the reliability of a big win or small win.

When the player presses the effect button 208 within the valid operation period, a preview effect is executed in which a preview image saying "Sorry..." or "Congratulations!" is displayed in the center of the main effect display section 200a, as shown in Figure 90(d) or Figure 90(e), and the result of the major role lottery for the special 2 hold is announced. In this embodiment, if the result of the major role lottery is a loss, a preview effect with a loss pattern shown in Figure 90(d) is executed, and if the result of the major role lottery is a big win or small win, a preview effect with a win pattern shown in Figure 90(e) is executed.

When the preview effect is executed with the winning pattern shown in Figure 90 (e), a small win game or a big win game will then be executed.

Furthermore, as mentioned above, if the game ball is launched properly and the second starting port 122 is opened long, the player will be entitled to five Special 2 variations. Therefore, if the preview effect based on the missing pattern shown in Figure 90(d) is executed, the operation request effect and preview effect for the next stored Special 2 variation will be executed again. Then, if all five of the major role draws for Special 2 variations result in a miss, the preview effect based on the missing pattern shown in Figure 90(d) will finally be executed, and then the display will return to the display screen for the variation effect based on the normal pattern, as shown in Figure 90(f). At this time, the image of the remaining number of times for time reduction will be displayed again on the main effect display unit 200a, as shown in Figure 90(f).

As mentioned above, in this embodiment, the time for the variable presentation announcing the results of the major role lottery for the Special 2 reserve is always set to 10 seconds. In other words, it is possible to set a variable time for the special symbol (here, 10 seconds) that is shorter than the normal power end wait time (here, 50 seconds) in normal play when the time-saving game state is set. In other words, it will take 50 seconds for all five Special 2 variations to end. On the other hand, as mentioned above, when the game state is set to the time-saving game state, the variable time for the normal symbol is set to anywhere between 2 seconds and 1 minute.

Therefore, there is a risk that multiple variations related to normal symbols will be executed before all five special 2 variations are completed. In this embodiment, if a Type 1 or Type 2 jackpot is not won during 100 normal symbol variations in the time-saving game state, the game state will transition from the time-saving game state to the non-time-saving game state. Therefore, if variations related to normal symbols are executed before all five special 2 variations are completed, there is a risk that the player will perceive that they have suffered a disadvantage.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the normal power end wait time when the second start port 122 is long-opened is set to 50.0 seconds. In this way, by setting the normal power end wait time when the second start port 122 is long-opened to a time equal to or greater than the total fluctuation time (here, 50 seconds) of the maximum number of reserved symbols (here, 5 symbols) that can be obtained during one long opening, it is possible to reduce the risk of a normal symbol fluctuation being executed before all five special 2 fluctuations have been completed, thereby increasing the enjoyment of the game.

Furthermore, in the time-saving game mode, if the second starting hole 122 is hit with a normal symbol A that short-opens, the chance zone effect will not be executed, and once the auxiliary game related to the short-opening has finished, a variable effect based on the next normal symbol will be executed.

Figure 91 is a time chart for normal play in an embodiment. Figure 91(a) is a time chart for when normal pattern B is won in the time-saving play state and a long release is performed. As shown in Figure 91(a), after a determination time of 0.5 seconds has elapsed, the auxiliary game for the long release begins. In this way, in this embodiment, when normal pattern B is won in the time-saving play state and a long release is performed, the normal pattern determination time is set to be less than or equal to the special pattern determination time.

In auxiliary play, first, a normal power pre-opening time of 0.1 seconds is set, during which the second start port 122 is kept closed. Then, after the normal power pre-opening time has elapsed, the second start port 122 is opened for the first time for 5.5 seconds. After the first opening of the second start port 122 is completed, the normal power closure effective time is set to 0.1 seconds, during which the second start port 122 is kept closed. After the normal power closure effective time has elapsed, the second start port 122 is opened for the second time for 0.1 seconds, and after the second opening is completed, the second start port 122 is kept closed for the normal power effective state time of 0.6 seconds and the normal power end wait time of 50.0 seconds. Then, after the normal power end wait time has elapsed, the auxiliary play ends.

In addition, the long opening during the time-saving game mode can be set to a short first half (time for the first opening) and a long second half (time for the second opening), such as 0.1 seconds for the first opening, 5.0 seconds for the effective normal power closure time after the first opening, and 5.5 seconds for the second opening, so that the game ball can enter the second starting hole 122 even if the player's operation for the right hit is delayed.

In the embodiment, the normal power closure effective time is not the time for managing the normal game management phase, but the time for treating a game ball entering the second start port 122 as valid. Specifically, when the second start port 122 is finally maintained in a closed state during auxiliary play, timing of both the normal power closure effective time and the normal power end wait time begins, and once the set normal power closure effective time has elapsed, any subsequent game balls entering the second start port 122 will be treated as invalid, and once the set normal power end wait time has elapsed, the next timer interrupt processing will begin displaying the variable normal symbols based on the next hold.

Figure 91(b) is a time chart for when normal pattern A is won in the time-saving game mode and a short release is performed. As shown in Figure 91(b), after a confirmation time of 0.004 seconds has elapsed, the auxiliary game related to the short release begins. In this way, in this embodiment, when normal pattern A is won in the time-saving game mode and a short release is performed, the confirmation time for the normal pattern is set to be less than or equal to the confirmation time for the special pattern.

In auxiliary play, first, the normal power pre-opening time during which the second start port 122 is kept closed is set to 0.004 seconds. Then, after the normal power pre-opening time has elapsed, the second start port 122 is opened for 0.052 seconds. Once the opening of the second start port 122 has been completed, the second start port 122 is kept closed for 0.44 seconds, which is the normal power closure effective time, and 0.44 seconds, which is the normal power end wait time. Then, once the normal power end wait time has elapsed, the auxiliary play ends.

As described above, in this embodiment, the probabilities of determining normal patterns A and B are approximately 98/99 and approximately 1/99, respectively. Therefore, during time-saving play, normal pattern A is frequently won, causing the second start port 122 to frequently short-open. When the second start port 122 short-opens, no game balls will enter the second start port 122, so the player may become annoyed by the frequent short-opening of the second start port 122.

In the embodiment, as shown in Figure 75, the fixed time, which is the time for the special symbol to be displayed in a stopped state, is set to 0.5 seconds. On the other hand, in the embodiment, when normal symbol A is determined as the type of normal symbol in the time-saving game state, the fixed time is set to 0.004 seconds, as shown in Figure 91 (b). Then, for the auxiliary game related to the short release in the time-saving game state, the time before normal power release is set to 0.004 seconds, the opening time of the second start port 122 is set to 0.052 seconds, and the normal power end wait time is set to 0.44 seconds.

In other words, for normal symbols that are short-released in the time-shortened play state, the total of the confirmation time, the time before normal power release, the release time, and the normal power end wait time is set to be equal to the confirmation time for the special symbol. This makes it possible to give the player the impression that they have won a losing special symbol variation when the second start port 122 is short-released in the time-shortened play state, as if they had won a losing special symbol variation. This makes it possible to reduce the risk of the player feeling frustrated. Note that for normal symbols that are short-released in the time-shortened play state, the total of the confirmation time, the time before normal power release, the release time, and the normal power end wait time may be set to be less than the confirmation time for a losing special symbol variation (losing variation).

Figure 91(c) is a time chart for when normal pattern A or normal pattern B is won in non-time-saving play mode and a short release is performed. As shown in Figure 91(c), after a confirmation time of 0.5 seconds has elapsed, the auxiliary game related to the short release begins. In this way, in this embodiment, when normal pattern A or normal pattern B is won in non-time-saving play mode and a short release is performed, the normal pattern confirmation time is set to be less than or equal to the special pattern confirmation time.

In auxiliary play, first, a normal power pre-opening time of 1.0 seconds is set, during which the second start port 122 is kept closed. Then, after the normal power pre-opening time has elapsed, the second start port 122 is opened for 0.052 seconds. Once the opening of the second start port 122 has been completed, the second start port 122 is kept closed for 0.44 seconds, which is the normal power active state time, and 0.44 seconds, which is the normal power end wait time. Then, once the normal power end wait time has elapsed, the auxiliary play ends.

In addition, for normal symbols that are short-released during non-time-saving play mode, the confirmation time, time before normal power release, release time, and normal power end wait time may be the same as for normal symbols that are short-released during time-saving play mode (all with confirmation time of 0.004 seconds, time before normal power release of 0.004 seconds, release time of 0.052 seconds, and normal power end wait time of 0.44 seconds). Next, the processing on the sub-control board 330 will be explained.

Figure 92 is a flowchart explaining the normal symbol designation command reception processing in the sub-control board 330 according to this embodiment. The normal symbol designation command is set in step S710-19 of the normal symbol change waiting processing in the main control board 300. When the sub-control board 330 receives the normal symbol designation command, it executes the normal symbol designation command reception processing.

(Step S1230-1)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the game state is a time-shortened game state. If it is determined that the game state is a time-shortened game state, the process proceeds to step S1230-3. If it is determined that the game state is not a time-shortened game state, the normal symbol designation command receiving process is terminated.

(Step S1230-3)
The sub-CPU 330a determines and stores the execution pattern of the preview performance based on the received normal symbol designation command.

(Step S1230-5)
The sub-CPU 330a determines and stores a display pattern for the remaining time-reduction number image based on the time-reduction number stored in step S1250-1 described later.

(Step S1230-7)
The sub-CPU 330a sets the time data in the time table based on the decisions made in each of the above steps, and then ends the variable command reception process. Based on the time table set here, in step S1300-3 described later, the process of displaying an image for variable effects on the main effect display unit 200a, audio output process, lighting control process for the effect lighting device 204, and other effect execution control processes are performed.

Figure 93 is a flowchart explaining the start designation command reception processing in the sub-control board 330 according to this embodiment. The start designation command is set in step S730-10 of the normal symbol stop symbol display processing in the main control board 300. When the start designation command is received in the sub-control board 330, the start designation command reception processing is executed.

(Step S1240-1)
When the start command is received, the sub-CPU 330a analyzes the start command and determines whether the opening and closing pattern of the second start opening 122 is a long opening based on the type of normal symbol and the current game state. If it is determined that the opening is a long opening, the process proceeds to step S1240-3, and if it is determined that the opening is not a long opening, the start command reception process is terminated.

(Step S1240-3)
The sub-CPU 330a starts the right-hit notification display and ends the start designation command reception process.

Figure 94 is a flowchart illustrating the count specification command reception process in the sub-control board 330 according to the embodiment. The count specification command reception process is executed when a count specification command is received during the command analysis process described above. As described above, the count specification command is set in step S731-5 in the main control board 300, and then transmitted to the sub-control board 330 by the sub-command transmission process in step S100-65 (see Figure 21).

(Step S1250-1)
When the number of times designation command is received, the sub-CPU 330a analyzes the received command, and stores the number of time-saving times based on the analysis result, and ends the number of times designation command reception process.

While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to such embodiments. It is clear that a person skilled in the art could conceive of various modifications or alterations within the scope of the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

In the above embodiment, a big win and a small win are provided, but it is sufficient to provide either a big win or a small win, and the present invention is applicable to so-called type 1 gaming machines, type 2 gaming machines, and type 1 and type 2 mixed machines.

In addition, while the above example illustrates a case where the duration of the variation effect announcing the results of the big prize lottery for the special 2 reserve is always set to 10 seconds, this is not limited to this. For example, the variation for the first special 2 reserve stored when the second start port 122 is long-opened may be 40 seconds, and the variations for the second through fifth special 2 reserves stored when the second start port 122 is long-opened may each be 2 seconds. In this case, the result of the big prize lottery for the five special 2 variations may be announced by the variation for the first special 2 reserve stored when the second start port 122 is long-opened. Note that if the five special 2 reserves stored when the second start port 122 is long-opened contain multiple symbols other than losing symbols (small prize symbols or big prize symbols), a so-called consecutive hold effect may be executed. In addition, although the above example illustrates a maximum number of holds that can be obtained during one long open as five, it may be less than five.

In addition, in the above example, when a normal A symbol is won in the time-saving game mode, or when a normal A or B symbol is won in the non-time-saving game mode, the normal power end wait time (0.44 seconds) when the opening/closing process controls the opening/closing of the second start port 122 by a short opening in which the second start port 122 is opened once every 0.052 seconds is shown to be longer than the normal power end wait time (50.0 seconds) when a normal B symbol is won in the time-saving game mode, when the opening/closing process controls the opening/closing of the second start port 122 by a long opening in which the second start port 122 is opened twice, once every 5.5 seconds and once every 0.1 seconds. However, the normal power end wait time may be shorter. For example, by shortening the normal power end wait time for a long opening compared to a short opening, a player can receive more normal symbol lotteries per unit time, thereby increasing the enjoyment of the game. In other words, it is possible to set the standby time when performing an opening/closing process that controls the opening and closing of the variable starting port using the first opening/closing pattern to be different from the standby time when performing an opening/closing process that controls the opening and closing of the variable starting port using the second opening/closing pattern.

In addition, in the above example, a case was shown in which the normal power end wait time in normal play when the time-saving play state is set (50.0 seconds when normal pattern B is won in the time-saving play state) is longer than the normal power end wait time in normal play when the non-time-saving play state is set (0.44 seconds when normal pattern A or normal pattern B is won in the non-time-saving play state), but it may also be shorter. In other words, it is sufficient if it is possible to set the wait time in normal play when the normal state is set and the wait time in normal play when the time-saving play state is set to be different.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the number of time-saving times is deducted when the fluctuation of the normal game stops, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the number of time-saving times may be deducted when the fluctuation of the normal game starts, when the auxiliary game starts, when the auxiliary game ends, or at a specified timing between the start and end of the auxiliary game.

It goes without saying that the effects in the above examples are merely examples and can be modified as appropriate.

In the above example, a case was described in which six setting values were set, but setting values do not have to be set, and the number of setting values is not particularly limited. Also, in the above example, the probability of winning the jackpot differed depending on the setting value. However, this is not the only thing that can differ depending on the setting value.

The non-time-saving game state in the above embodiment corresponds to the first state of the present invention. The time-saving game state in the above embodiment corresponds to the second state of the present invention. The above embodiment illustrates a case in which the game state changes from the time-saving game state (second state) to the non-time-saving game state (first state) based on the number of times normal game play is executed in the time-saving game state (second state) reaching a predetermined number (time-saving number of times). However, the present invention is not limited to this. In other words, the predetermined condition may be something other than the number of times normal game play is executed reaching a predetermined number. Specifically, for example, the predetermined condition may be when the number of times normal pattern A or normal pattern B is won reaches a predetermined number, when the number of times normal pattern A is won reaches a predetermined number, when the number of times normal pattern B is won reaches a predetermined number, when the number of times the second start hole 122 is opened reaches a predetermined number, when the number of times special pattern 1 and special pattern 2 change reaches a predetermined number, when the number of times special pattern 1 changes reaches a predetermined number, or when the number of times special pattern 2 changes reaches a predetermined number.

In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the first game area 116a and the second game area 116b are provided on the game board 108 as areas into which game balls can be hit. However, the surface configuration of the game board 108 is not limited to this, and only one game area may be provided.

The second starting port 122 in the above embodiment corresponds to the variable starting port of the present invention.
The gate 124 in the above embodiment corresponds to the entrance area of the present invention.
84 to 89 in the above embodiment corresponds to the normal game management means of the present invention. That is, the normal game management means controls normal games including at least an opening/closing process that controls the opening and closing of the variable start port in one of a plurality of opening/closing patterns, including a first opening/closing pattern and a second opening/closing pattern in which the opening time of the variable start port is longer than that of the first opening/closing pattern, based on the entry of a gaming ball into the entry area, and a wait process that waits for a predetermined waiting time when the variable start port transitions from an open state to a closed state. Alternatively, the normal game management means controls normal games including at least an opening/closing process that controls the opening and closing of the variable start port in one of a plurality of opening/closing patterns, including a first opening/closing pattern and a second opening/closing pattern in which the opening time of the variable start port is longer than that of the first opening/closing pattern, based on the entry of a gaming ball into the entry area, and a wait process that waits for a predetermined waiting time when the variable start port transitions from an open state to a closed state. The normal game management means may perform an opening/closing process to control the opening and closing of the variable start port in any of a plurality of opening/closing patterns including a first opening/closing pattern and a second opening/closing pattern in which the opening time of the variable start port is longer than that of the first opening/closing pattern based on the entrance of a gaming ball into the entrance area, and when the variable start port transitions from an open state to a closed state in the opening/closing process, perform a wait process to wait for a predetermined waiting time, and when the wait process is completed, perform execution control of a normal game in which the lottery process can be resumed.The normal game management means may perform an opening/closing process to control the opening and closing of the variable start port based on the entrance of a gaming ball into the entrance area, and when the variable start port transitions from an open state to a closed state in the opening/closing process, perform a wait process to wait for a predetermined waiting time, and when the wait process is completed, perform execution control of a normal game in which the lottery process can be resumed.
Furthermore, the main CPU 300a that executes the processes of Figures 82 and 86 in the above embodiment corresponds to the game state setting means of the present invention.
Further, the main CPU 300a that executes the special symbol symbol determination in the above-mentioned reference example corresponds to the symbol determination means of the present invention.
Moreover, the main CPU 300a that executes the process of FIG. 35 in the above-mentioned reference example corresponds to the variable time determining means of the present invention.
Further, the main CPU 300a that executes the processing shown in FIG. 38 in the above-mentioned reference example corresponds to the symbol display control means of the present invention.
The main CPU 300a that executes the processes of FIGS. 40 to 43 in the above-mentioned reference example and FIGS. 81 to 82 in the above-mentioned embodiment corresponds to the big prize opening game executing means of the present invention.
In addition, the small prize game and the big prize game in the above embodiment correspond to the big prize opening game of the present invention.
Furthermore, the small win symbols and big win symbols in the above embodiment correspond to the predetermined symbols associated with the execution of the big prize opening game of the present invention.

100 gaming machine 122 second start gate 124 gate 126 first big prize gate 128 second big prize gate 162 second special symbol display (symbol display unit)
300 Main control board 300a Main CPU
300b main ROM
300c main RAM

Claims (2)

a play area provided with a starting opening including at least a variable starting opening that can be opened and closed;
an entry area provided in the game area;
a normal game management means for controlling a normal game, which determines one of a plurality of normal patterns including at least a winning pattern on the condition that a gaming ball enters the entry area, and executes an opening and closing game to transition the variable start port to an open state and a closed state when the normal pattern corresponding to the winning pattern is displayed stationary on the normal pattern display unit for a predetermined normal pattern determination time;
a game state setting means capable of setting a first state or a second state that is more advantageous than the first state as a game state, and changing the game state from the second state to the first state based on the establishment of a predetermined condition in the second state;
a pattern determination means for determining one of a plurality of special patterns including at least a predetermined pattern associated with the execution of a large prize opening game in which a large prize opening provided in the game area is opened when a predetermined start condition is established based on the entry of a game ball into the variable start opening in the opening and closing game, and a losing pattern associated with not executing the large prize opening game;
When a predetermined special symbol variation time has elapsed, a special symbol display means for stopping and displaying the special symbol on the special symbol display unit for a predetermined special symbol determination time;
a performance execution means for executing a performance in the performance display unit;
Equipped with
The normal game management means
In the opening and closing game, the variable start opening can be controlled to open and close in any of a plurality of opening and closing patterns including a first opening and closing pattern that transitions the variable start opening to the open state, and a second opening and closing pattern that has a longer opening time of the variable start opening than the first opening and closing pattern;
The normal symbol determination time is set to be less than the special symbol determination time when the losing symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit,
In the second state, the time from when the variable start port is controlled to open and close by the second opening and closing pattern to when the next normal game starts is set to be equal to or longer than the special chart fluctuation time based on the game ball entering the variable start port in the opening and closing game by the second opening and closing pattern,
The performance execution means
After displaying the performance symbols in a predetermined manner suggesting that the opening and closing game will be executed by the second opening and closing pattern, if the predetermined pattern is not determined by the pattern determination means when the opening and closing game is executed by the second opening and closing pattern, the performance symbols can be displayed in a specific manner that is at least partially different from the predetermined pattern,
When the number of times the normal game is executed reaches a predetermined number, the predetermined condition can be established ;
In the second state, a variable effect is performed based on the normal symbol,
The gaming machine executes a number suggestion effect suggesting the number of times of the normal game that can be executed in the second state, and updates the number of times suggested by the number suggestion effect based on the execution of the normal game . a play area provided with a starting opening including at least a variable starting opening that can be opened and closed;
an entry area provided in the game area;
A normal game management means for controlling a normal game, which determines one of a plurality of normal patterns including at least a winning pattern on the condition that a gaming ball enters the entry area, and executes an opening and closing game to transition the variable start port to an open state and a closed state when the normal pattern corresponding to the winning pattern is stopped and displayed on the normal pattern display unit;
a game state setting means capable of setting a first state or a second state that is more advantageous than the first state as a game state, and changing the game state from the second state to the first state based on the establishment of a predetermined condition in the second state;
a pattern determination means for determining one of a plurality of special patterns including at least a predetermined pattern associated with the execution of a large prize opening game in which a large prize opening provided in the game area is opened when a predetermined start condition is established based on the entry of a game ball into the variable start opening in the opening and closing game, and a losing pattern associated with not executing the large prize opening game;
When a predetermined special symbol variation time has elapsed, a special symbol display means for stopping and displaying the special symbol on the special symbol display unit for a predetermined special symbol determination time;
a performance execution means for executing a performance in the performance display unit;
Equipped with
The normal game management means
In the opening and closing game, the variable start opening can be controlled to open and close in any of a plurality of opening and closing patterns including a first opening and closing pattern that transitions the variable start opening to the open state, and a second opening and closing pattern that has a longer opening time of the variable start opening than the first opening and closing pattern;
The length of the period from when the stop display of the normal symbol corresponding to the winning symbol is started to when the execution of the opening and closing game by the first opening and closing pattern is completed is set to be equal to or less than the special symbol determination time when the losing symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit,
In the second state, the time from when the variable start port is controlled to open and close by the second opening and closing pattern to when the next normal game starts is set to be equal to or longer than the special chart fluctuation time based on the game ball entering the variable start port in the opening and closing game by the second opening and closing pattern,
The performance execution means
After displaying the performance symbols in a predetermined manner suggesting that the opening and closing game will be executed by the second opening and closing pattern, if the predetermined pattern is not determined by the pattern determination means when the opening and closing game is executed by the second opening and closing pattern, the performance symbols can be displayed in a specific manner that is at least partially different from the predetermined pattern,
When the number of times the normal game is executed reaches a predetermined number, the predetermined condition can be established ;
In the second state, a variable effect is performed based on the normal symbol,
The gaming machine executes a number suggestion effect suggesting the number of times of the normal game that can be executed in the second state, and updates the number of times suggested by the number suggestion effect based on the execution of the normal game .