JP7742626B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines such as pachinko machines.

In pachinko gaming machines, a type of gaming machine, a jackpot determination is made to determine whether or not a jackpot has occurred, provided that a gaming ball enters the starting slot. When a jackpot determination is made, a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner to notify the result of the jackpot determination. If the variable display of the special symbol indicates that the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, a jackpot game (special game) advantageous to the player is executed (see Patent Document 1).

The gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 may enter a time-saving gaming state (bonus gaming state) after a jackpot game is executed, in which it is easier for gaming balls to enter the openable and closable variable starting opening than in a non-time-saving gaming state.

JP 2018-88993 A

However, for gaming machines that can enter a gaming state in which it is easier for gaming balls to enter the variable start opening that can be opened and closed than in a non-time-saving gaming state, there is still room for improvement to increase gaming enjoyment.

The gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
a pattern changing means for changing a predetermined identification pattern;
a special game execution means for executing a special game advantageous to a player when the identification symbol is stopped as a jackpot symbol;
and a game state control means for controlling the number of times the symbol variation is executed in the special game state in which the game ball is likely to enter the variable start port until the number of times the symbol variation is executed in the special game state reaches a predetermined upper limit number.
In the bonus game state,
a first special game state controlled in response to the end of the special game;
a second bonus game state that is controlled without going through the special game based on the fact that the identification symbol has stopped at a predetermined symbol different from the jackpot symbol,
The game state control means
When the jackpot symbol is stopped in the first bonus game state, the game state can be controlled to the first bonus game state with a first number of times as the upper limit number of times;
When the jackpot symbol is stopped in the second bonus game state, the game state can be controlled to the first bonus game state, with a second number of times that is smaller than the first number of times as the upper limit number of times .
The first bonus game state includes a non-predetermined bonus game state and a predetermined bonus game state,
This gaming machine is characterized in that, whether the jackpot symbol stops in the non-predetermined bonus game state or the jackpot symbol stops in the predetermined bonus game state, the upper limit number of times for the first bonus game state based on the stopping of the jackpot symbol is set to a value greater than the second number of times .

This invention makes it possible to increase gaming interest.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the gaming board of the gaming machine. 3 is an enlarged view of part A shown in FIG. 2, showing displays provided on the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the game control board side of the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the performance control board side of the gaming machine. FIG. 10 is a table showing various random numbers acquired by a game control microcomputer. (A) A jackpot determination table. (B) A jackpot symbol type determination table. (C) A losing symbol type determination table. (D) A reach determination table. This is a jackpot symbol type determination table, which explains the types of jackpots. This is a table for determining the type of losing symbol, and explains the types of losing symbols. This is a timing chart for explaining the transition of game states, where (A) shows the case where the ceiling is reached in a low-probability, non-time-saving state, (B) shows the case where jackpot pattern A is won in a low-probability, non-time-saving state, and (C) shows the case where a special miss is won in a low-probability, non-time-saving state. This is a timing chart for explaining the transition of game states, where (D) shows the case where a jackpot pattern C is won in a time-saving state triggered by a jackpot or a special miss, (E) shows the case where a special miss is won in a time-saving state triggered by a jackpot or a special miss, (F) shows the case where a jackpot pattern C is won in a time-saving state triggered by a ceiling being reached, and (G) shows the case where a special miss is won in a time-saving state triggered by a ceiling being reached. (A) A normal symbol winning determination table. (B) A normal symbol variation pattern determination table. (C) An electric chute opening pattern determination table. This is a special chart fluctuation pattern determination table for low probability non-time-saving states. (A) A special chart fluctuation pattern determination table for a high probability time-saving state. (B) A special chart fluctuation pattern determination table for a low probability time-saving state. 10 is a flowchart of a main control process. 10 is a flowchart of a main-side timer interrupt process. 10 is a flowchart of a sensor detection process. 10 is a flowchart of a normal operation process. 10 is a flowchart of a special action process. 10 is a flowchart of a special symbol waiting process. 10 is a flowchart of a jackpot determination process. 10 is a flowchart of a variation pattern selection process. 10 is a flowchart of a variation pattern selection process. This is a flowchart of processing during special pattern change. 10 is a flowchart of a special symbol determination process. 10 is a flowchart of a game status management process. 10 is a flowchart of a special losing process. 10 is a flowchart of ceiling processing. 10 is a flowchart of a game state reset process. This is a flowchart of special electric device processing 1 (jackpot game). 10 is a flowchart of a game status setting process. 10 is a flowchart of a sub-control main process. 10 is a flowchart of a 1 ms timer interrupt process. 10 is a flowchart of a 10 ms timer interrupt process. 10 is a flowchart of a received command analysis process. 1 is a diagram illustrating an outline of the game flow of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. (A) A diagram showing the display screen of the normal presentation mode (daytime presentation mode). (B) A diagram showing the display screen of the high probability presentation mode (ultra-daytime presentation mode). (C) A diagram showing the display screen of the night presentation mode (first time-saving presentation mode). (D) A diagram showing the display screen of the ultra-night presentation mode (second time-saving presentation mode). (E) A diagram showing the display screen of the sky presentation mode (ceiling time-saving presentation mode). An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of normal fluctuation in a fluctuation presentation. This is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of N reach (normal reach) in variable performance. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an SP reach in a variable performance. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a time-saving transition effect. 10 is a jackpot symbol type determination table according to the second embodiment, which is a table explaining the types of jackpots. 10 is a determination table for the type of losing symbol according to the second embodiment, which is a table explaining the types of losing symbols. A timing chart for explaining the transition of game states in the second embodiment, in which (H) indicates a case where a jackpot pattern C is won in a time-saving state triggered by a jackpot or a special miss, (I) indicates a case where a special miss is won in a time-saving state triggered by a jackpot or a special miss, (J) indicates a case where a jackpot pattern C is won in a time-saving state triggered by a ceiling reaching, and (K) indicates a case where a special miss is won in a time-saving state triggered by a ceiling reaching. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an outline of the game flow of the gaming machine according to the second embodiment. 10 is a jackpot symbol type determination table according to the third embodiment, which is a table explaining the types of jackpots. 10 is a determination table for the type of losing symbol according to the third embodiment, which is a table explaining the types of losing symbols. This is a special chart fluctuation pattern determination table for a high probability non-time-saving state in the third embodiment. 10 is a jackpot symbol type determination table according to a modified example of the third embodiment, which is a table explaining the types of jackpots. 10 is a jackpot symbol type determination table according to another modified example of the third embodiment, which is a table for explaining the types of jackpots. This is a timing chart relating to a modified example of the first embodiment, and is a timing chart for explaining the transition of the game state when the jackpot pattern A is won in a low-probability non-time-saving state.

1. Configuration of the Gaming Machine A pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the left-right direction of each part of the pachinko gaming machine, which is an example of a gaming machine, will be described as being the same as the left-right direction of a player facing the pachinko gaming machine. Furthermore, the forward direction of each part of the pachinko gaming machine will be described as the direction approaching the player facing the pachinko gaming machine, and the rearward direction of each part of the pachinko gaming machine will be described as the direction away from the player facing the pachinko gaming machine.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the first embodiment comprises a gaming machine frame 2 and a gaming board 1 (see FIG. 2) mounted within the gaming machine frame 2. The gaming machine frame 2 forms the outer shell of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 and comprises an outer frame 22 disposed on the outside, an inner frame 21 assembled inside the outer frame 22, and a front door 23 (front frame) disposed in front of the outer frame 22 and inner frame 21. The front door 23 is a vertically rectangular shape that protects the gaming board 1 and is rotatable relative to the outer frame 22 and inner frame 21. A transparent glass plate 23t (window portion) is attached to the center of the front door 23 so that the player can view the gaming area 6, which will be described later.

The front door 23 is provided with a handle 72k (game ball shooting means) for firing game balls with a firing strength corresponding to the rotation angle, a ball supply tray (upper tray) 34 for storing game balls, and a surplus ball receiving tray (lower tray) 35 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the ball supply tray 34. The front door 23 also has an effect button 40k and a select button 42k that can be operated by the player during effects that are executed as the game progresses. The select button (directional pad) 42k is composed of an up button, a down button, a left button, and a right button. The front door 23 is also provided with a decorative frame lamp 212 and a speaker (not shown in Figure 1) that outputs sound.

As shown in Figure 2, the gaming board 1 has a gaming area 6 surrounded by rail members 62, where gaming balls launched by operating the handle 72k flow down. The gaming board 1 is also provided with a number of decorative board lamps 54. The gaming board 1 is an integrated unit consisting of a plate-shaped member located on the front side and a back unit located on the rear side (a unit for attaching various control boards, image display device 50, harnesses, etc., described below).

A number of game pegs that guide the game ball are protruding from the game area 6. Near the center of the game area 6 is an image display device 50 (display means), which is a liquid crystal display device. The image display device may also be another type of image display device, such as an organic EL display device. The display screen 50a (display unit) of the image display device 50 has a performance symbol display area that displays (varies) a performance symbol (decorative symbol) EZ in synchronization with the variable display (variable display) of the first special symbol and second special symbol, which will be described later. The display that displays the performance symbol EZ is called a performance symbol variable display. A performance symbol variable display is sometimes referred to as a "decorative symbol variable display" or simply a "variable display."

The effect symbol display area consists of three symbol display areas, for example, "left," "center," and "right." The left symbol display area (left symbol display area 50b1, described below) displays left symbol EZ1, the center symbol display area (center symbol display area 50b2, described below) displays center symbol EZ2, and the right symbol display area (right symbol display area 50b3, described below) displays right symbol EZ3. Each effect symbol EZ consists of multiple symbols representing numbers from "1" to "9," for example. The image display device 50 clearly displays the results of the variable display of the first and second special symbols (i.e., the results of the jackpot lottery) displayed on the first special symbol display device 81a and second special symbol display device 81b, described below, by combining the left symbol EZ1, center symbol EZ2, and right symbol EZ3.

For example, if a jackpot is won, a repeating number such as "777" will be displayed as a static effect pattern. If a loss occurs (a normal miss), a random number such as "263" will be displayed as a static effect pattern. This makes it easier for players to understand the progress of the game. In other words, players generally do not understand the results of the jackpot lottery on the first special symbol display 81a or second special symbol display 81b, but rather on the image display device 50. The positions of the display areas for the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 do not have to be fixed. The variable display of the effect symbols can be, for example, scrolled up or down. The combination of effect symbols displayed as static effect patterns can be freely changed depending on the results of each lottery.

In addition to the effect symbol change effects using the effect symbol EZ described above, the image display device 50 also displays on the display screen 50a jackpot effects that are performed in parallel with jackpot games, demo effects for waiting for customers (customer waiting effects), and other effects. In the effect symbol change effects, in addition to effect symbol EZ such as numbers, effect images other than the effect symbol EZ, such as background images and character images, are also displayed.

The display screen 50a of the image display device 50 also has a first hold icon display area that displays a first hold icon HA (effect hold image) according to the number of first special symbol holds stored, which will be described later. By displaying the first hold icon HA, the number of first special symbol holds stored, which will be displayed on the first special symbol hold display 83a (see Figure 3), which will be described later, can be clearly shown to the player. Also, there is a second hold icon display area that displays a second hold icon HB (effect hold image) according to the number of second special symbol holds stored, which will be described later. By displaying the second hold icon HB, the number of second special symbol holds stored, which will be displayed on the second special symbol hold display 83b (see Figure 3), which will be described later, can be clearly shown to the player.

A center frame 61 (inner wall portion) is located near the center of the game area 6, in front of the image display device 50. A stage portion 61s is formed at the bottom of the center frame 61, which can guide game balls rolling on the top surface toward the first starting opening 11, described below. A warp portion 61w is provided at the left side of the center frame 61, which allows game balls to flow in from the entrance and out to the stage portion 61s from the exit. A movable board body 55k that can move up and down is provided at the top of the center frame 61. The movable board body 55k can be moved from an origin position above the display screen 50a to a performance position that overlaps the center of the display screen 50a in the front-to-back direction.

Below the image display device 50 in the gaming area 6, in the center in the left-right direction, is a first start winning device 11D equipped with a first start opening 11 (an example of an opening) that always allows a gaming ball to enter. The first start opening 11 is also referred to as the first opening, fixed opening, first start winning opening, or first starting area. The first start winning device 11D is also referred to as the first opening, fixed opening, or first starting device. The entry of a gaming ball into the first opening 11 triggers the drawing of a first special symbol (a jackpot drawing, i.e., the acquisition and determination of a jackpot random number, etc.).

In addition, a standard variable entry device (standard electric device, commonly known as an electric chute) 12D is provided in the lower right corner of the game area 6. The second start opening 12 (an example of a ball opening) has a variable ball entry opening, which allows for variable ball entry. The second start opening 12 is also referred to as the second ball entry opening, variable ball entry opening, variable start opening, second start entry opening, or second start area. The electric chute 12D is also referred to as the second ball entry means, variable ball entry means, or second start entry device. The entry of a game ball into the second start opening 12 triggers the drawing of a second special symbol (a jackpot drawing, i.e., the acquisition and determination of a jackpot random number, etc.). The electric chute 12D is equipped with an electric chute opening/closing member 12k that can move back and forth (advance and retreat) between an open state and a closed state. The second start opening 12 is opened and closed by the operation of the electric chute opening/closing member 12k. The electric chute opening/closing member 12k is driven by the electric chute solenoid 12s, described below.

The electric chute opening/closing member 12k is driven by an electric chute solenoid 12s, which will be described later. When the electric chute opening/closing member 12k is in the open state, it retracts to the rear, allowing game balls to enter the second starting hole 12. On the other hand, when the electric chute opening/closing member 12k is in the closed state, it advances to the front, preventing game balls from entering the second starting hole 12. In this way, the second starting hole 12 is a starting hole whose ease of ball entry can be changed. Note that the electric chute does not have to prevent balls from entering the second starting hole when it is in the closed state, as long as it makes it easier for balls to enter the second starting hole when the electric chute opening/closing member is in the open state than when it is in the closed state. Furthermore, the electric chute is not limited to one with an opening/closing member that can move forward and backward (advance and retreat), but may also have an opening/closing member that can rotate or move left and right.

Furthermore, a large prize device 14D equipped with a large prize opening 14 is provided to the lower left of the electric chute 12D in the gaming area 6. The large prize opening 14 is also referred to as a special prize opening. The large prize opening 14D is also referred to as an attacker (AT), special prize means, or special variable prize opening device. The large prize opening 14D is equipped with an AT opening/closing member 14k that can be opened or closed, and the large prize opening 14 is opened or closed by the operation of the AT opening/closing member 14k. The AT opening/closing member 14k is driven by a large prize opening solenoid 14s (see Figure 4). Game balls can enter the large prize opening 14 only when the AT opening/closing member 14k is in the open state.

In addition, a gate 13 through which game balls can pass is provided to the upper right of the big prize device 14D in the game area 6. The gate 13 is also called a passage opening or passage area. The passage of a game ball through the gate 13 triggers the execution of a normal symbol lottery (i.e., the acquisition and determination of a normal symbol random number (winning random number)) that determines whether or not the electric chute 12D will open. Furthermore, multiple normal prize openings 10 are provided at the bottom of the game area 6. Also, an outlet 19 is provided at the bottom of the game area 6 that ejects game balls that have been shot into the game area 6 but have not entered any of the prize openings out of the game area 6.

The game area 6, in which various winning slots and the like are arranged, has a left game area 6L (first game area) to the left of the center in the horizontal direction, and a right game area 6R (second game area) to the right. A hitting style in which game balls are fired so that they flow down the left game area 6L is called a left hit. On the other hand, a hitting style in which game balls are fired so that they flow down the right game area 6R is called a right hit. In this form of pachinko game machine PY1, the flow path through which game balls flow when played with a left hit is called the first flow path R1, and the flow path through which game balls flow when played with a right hit is called the second flow path R2.

A first starting hole 11, a regular winning hole 10, and an outlet hole 19 are arranged on the first flow path R1. By hitting the game ball so that it flows down the first flow path R1, the player can aim to win at the first starting hole 11 or the regular winning hole 10.

On the other hand, the second flow path R2 is provided with a gate 13, a large prize opening 14 (large prize device 14D), a second starting opening 12 (electric chute 12D), a regular prize opening 10, and an outlet 19. By hitting a game ball so that it flows down the second flow path R2, the player can aim for it to pass through the gate 13 or to win a prize in the large prize opening 14, the second starting opening 12, or the regular prize opening 10.

As shown in Figure 2, displays 8 are arranged in the lower right corner of the gaming board 1. As shown in Figure 3, displays 8 include a first special symbol display 81a that variably displays a first special symbol (an example of an identification symbol), a second special symbol display 81b that variably displays a second special symbol (an example of an identification symbol), and a regular symbol display 82 that variably displays a regular symbol. The first special symbol is also referred to as the first special symbol or special symbol 1, and the second special symbol is also referred to as the second special symbol or special symbol 2. The regular symbol is also referred to as the regular symbol.

The displays 8 also include a first special chart hold display 83a that displays the number of reserved activations (first special chart hold, special chart 1 hold) stored in the first special chart display 81a, a second special chart hold display 83b that displays the number of reserved activations (second special chart hold, special chart 2 hold) stored in the second special chart display 81b, and a regular chart hold display 84 that displays the number of reserved activations (regular chart hold) stored in the regular chart display 82.

The variable display of the first special symbol is triggered by the entry of a gaming ball into the first starting hole 11. The variable display of the second special symbol is triggered by the entry of a gaming ball into the second starting hole 12. In the following explanation, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as special symbols (special symbols). Furthermore, the first special symbol display 81a and the second special symbol display 81b may be collectively referred to as the special symbol display 81. Furthermore, the first special symbol reserve display 83a and the second special symbol reserve display 83b may be collectively referred to as the special symbol reserve display 83. Furthermore, the first special symbol reserve and the second special symbol reserve may be collectively referred to as the special symbol reserve.

The special symbol display 81 displays a special symbol in a variable manner (changing display) and then in a static display, thereby announcing the results of a lottery (special symbol lottery, jackpot lottery) based on winning at the first starting port 11 or the second starting port 12. The special symbol displayed in a static manner (stopping symbol, special symbol derived and displayed as a display result of the variable display) is one special symbol selected from multiple types of special symbols by the special symbol lottery. If the stopped symbol is a predetermined jackpot symbol (special symbol for a jackpot stopping mode), a jackpot game (an example of a special game) is played in which the jackpot opening port 14 is opened in an opening pattern corresponding to the type of jackpot symbol displayed in a static manner (i.e., the type of jackpot that has been won). The opening patterns of the jackpot opening port 14 in a jackpot game will be described later.

Specifically, the special symbol display 81 is composed of, for example, eight horizontally arranged LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), and displays a special symbol corresponding to the result of the jackpot lottery depending on the lighting pattern of the LEDs. For example, in the event of a jackpot (one of the multiple types of jackpots described below), a jackpot symbol is displayed with the first, second, fifth, and sixth LEDs from the left lit, such as "○○●●○○●●" (○: lit, ●: unlit). In the event of a loss, a losing symbol is displayed with only the rightmost LED lit, such as "●●●●●●●○." A losing symbol may also be displayed in which all LEDs are unlit. Furthermore, before the special symbol is statically displayed, a fluctuating display of the special symbol is displayed for a predetermined fluctuating time, and the fluctuating display is displayed in such a way that each LED lights up, for example, as if light were flowing repeatedly from left to right. The variable display mode can be anything, such as all LEDs flashing at once, as long as each LED is not displayed stationary (illuminated in a specific manner).

In this pachinko gaming machine PY1, when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 11 or the second starting hole 12, the values (numerical information, judgment information) of various random numbers, such as the jackpot random number, obtained for that entry are temporarily stored in the special symbol reserve memory unit 105, described below. In more detail, if the entry is in the first starting hole 11, it is stored as a first special symbol reserve in the first special symbol reserve memory unit 105a, described below, and if the entry is in the second starting hole 12, it is stored as a second special symbol reserve in the second special symbol reserve memory unit 105b, described below. There is an upper limit to the number of special symbol reserves that can be stored in each special symbol reserve memory unit 105, and in this embodiment, the upper limit is four.

Special reserved symbols stored in the special symbol reserve memory unit 105 are consumed when it becomes possible to variable display special symbols based on those reserved symbols. Consumption of a reserved special symbol refers to determining the jackpot random number, etc., that corresponds to that reserved special symbol and executing variable display of the special symbol to indicate the result of that determination. Therefore, with this pachinko gaming machine PY1, even if the variable display of the special symbol based on the entry of a gaming ball into the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12 cannot be executed immediately after the entry, i.e., even if a prize is won while the variable display of the special symbol is being executed or while a jackpot game is being executed, the right to enter a jackpot lottery for that prize can be reserved up to a specified number.

The number of reserved special drawings is displayed on the reserved special drawing indicator 83. Specifically, each reserved special drawing indicator 83 is composed of, for example, four LEDs, and the number of reserved special drawings is displayed by lighting up the LEDs equal to the number of reserved special drawings.

The variable display of the normal symbol is triggered by the passage of a gaming ball through gate 13. The normal symbol display 82 displays the normal symbol variably (variably) and then stops, thereby announcing the result of the normal symbol lottery based on the passage of the gaming ball through gate 13. The stopped normal symbol (normal symbol stop symbol, normal symbol derived and displayed as a display result of the variable display) is one normal symbol selected from multiple types of normal symbols by the normal symbol lottery. If the stopped normal symbol is a predetermined specific normal symbol (a normal symbol with a predetermined stop pattern, i.e., a normal winning symbol), an auxiliary game is played in which the second start hole 12 is opened in an opening pattern corresponding to the current game state. The opening pattern of the second start hole 12 will be described later.

Specifically, the normal symbol display 82 is composed of, for example, two LEDs (see Figure 3), and displays the normal symbol according to the result of the normal symbol lottery by changing the lighting pattern of the LEDs. For example, if the lottery result is a win, a normal winning symbol is displayed with both LEDs lit, as in "○○" (○: lit, ●: off). If the lottery result is a loss, a normal losing symbol is displayed with only the right LED lit, as in "●○". A mode in which all LEDs are turned off may also be used to indicate a normal losing symbol. Before the normal symbol is displayed as a static symbol, a variable display of the normal symbol is displayed for a predetermined variable time, and the variable display pattern is, for example, a mode in which both LEDs light up alternately. Note that the variable display pattern may be any mode, such as all LEDs flashing simultaneously, as long as none of the LEDs are displayed as a static symbol (a lit display in a specific mode).

In this pachinko gaming machine PY1, when a gaming ball passes through gate 13, the value of the normal symbol random number (winning random number) obtained for that passage is temporarily stored as a normal symbol reserve in the normal symbol reserve memory unit 106, which will be described later. There is an upper limit to the number of normal symbol reserves that can be stored in the normal symbol reserve memory unit 106, and in this embodiment the upper limit is "4."

A reserved normal symbol stored in the reserved normal symbol memory unit 106 is consumed when it becomes possible to variable display a normal symbol based on that reserved normal symbol. Consuming a reserved normal symbol means determining the normal symbol random number (winning random number) corresponding to that reserved normal symbol and executing a variable display of the normal symbol to indicate the result of that determination. Therefore, with this pachinko gaming machine PY1, even if the variable display of the normal symbol based on the passage of the gaming ball through gate 13 cannot be performed immediately after the passage, i.e., even if a win occurs while the variable display of the normal symbol is being executed or while an auxiliary game is being executed, the right to draw a normal symbol for that passage can be reserved up to a specified number.

The number of reserved general maps is then displayed on the reserved general map display 84. Specifically, the reserved general map display 84 is composed of, for example, four LEDs, and displays the number of reserved general maps by lighting up the LEDs equal to the number of reserved general maps.

2. Electrical Configuration of the Gaming Machine Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be explained based on Figures 4 and 5. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is equipped with a game control board 100 (main control board) that controls game profits such as jackpot lottery draws and game state transitions, a performance control board 120 (sub-control board) that controls performances executed as the game progresses, and a payout control board 170 that controls the payout of game balls. The game control board 100 constitutes the main control unit, and the performance control board 120 constitutes the sub-control unit together with an image control board 140, an audio control board 161, and a sub-drive board 162, which will be described later.

The sub-controller must be equipped with at least the presentation control board 120 and be capable of controlling game presentations using presentation means (image display device 50, speaker 610, board lamp 54, frame lamp 212, movable board body 55k, etc.).

The pachinko gaming machine PY1 also has a power supply board 190. The power supply board 190 supplies power to the game control board 100, the presentation control board 120, and the payout control board 170, and also supplies necessary power to other devices via these boards. The power supply board 190 is provided with a backup power circuit 192. When power is not supplied to the pachinko gaming machine PY1, the backup power circuit 192 supplies power to the game RAM (Random Access Memory) 104 of the game control board 100 and the presentation RAM 124 of the presentation control board 120, which will be described later. Therefore, information stored in the game RAM 104 of the game control board 100 and the presentation RAM 124 of the presentation control board 120 is retained even when power is lost to the pachinko gaming machine PY1. A power switch 191 is also connected to the power supply board 190. The power is turned on/off by turning the power switch 191 on/off. In addition, a backup power supply circuit for the game RAM 104 of the game control board 100 may be provided on the game control board 100, and a backup power supply circuit for the performance RAM 124 of the performance control board 120 may be provided on the performance control board 120.

As shown in FIG. 4, the game control board 100 is equipped with a game control one-chip microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as the "game control microcomputer") 101, which controls the progress of gameplay on the pachinko game machine PY1 according to a program. The game control microcomputer (game control means) 101 includes a game ROM (Read Only Memory) 103 that stores programs for controlling the progress of gameplay, a game RAM 104 used as work memory, a game CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102 that executes the programs stored in the game ROM 103, and a game I/O (Input/Output) port 118 for inputting and outputting data and signals. The game RAM 104 is equipped with the above-mentioned special symbol reserve memory unit 105 (first special symbol reserve memory unit 105a and second special symbol reserve memory unit 105b) and a regular symbol reserve memory unit 106. The game ROM 103 may be external.

Various sensors and solenoids are connected to the game control board 100 via the relay board 110. Therefore, signals are input from each sensor to the game control board 100, and signals are output from the game control board 100 to each solenoid. Specifically, the sensors connected include a first start gate sensor 11a, a second start gate sensor 12a, a gate sensor 13a, a special prize gate sensor 14a, and a regular prize gate sensor 10a.

The first start gate sensor 11a is provided in the first start gate 11 and detects game balls that have entered the first start gate 11. The second start gate sensor 12a is provided in the second start gate 12 and detects game balls that have entered the second start gate 12. The gate sensor 13a is provided in the gate 13 and detects game balls that have passed through the gate 13. The special prize gate sensor 14a is provided in the special prize gate 14 and detects game balls that have entered the special prize gate 14. The regular prize gate sensor 10a is provided in each regular prize gate 10 and detects game balls that have entered the regular prize gate 10.

Also connected to the system are solenoids: electric chute solenoid 12s and special prize opening solenoid 14s. The electric chute solenoid 12s drives the electric chute opening/closing member 12k of the electric chute 12D. The special prize opening solenoid 14s drives the AT opening/closing member 14k of the special prize device 14D.

Furthermore, the game control board 100 is connected to a special symbol display 81 (first special symbol display 81a and second special symbol display 81b), a regular symbol display 82, a special symbol reserve display 83 (first special symbol reserve display 83a and second special symbol reserve display 83b), and a regular symbol reserve display 84. In other words, the display control of these displays 8 is performed by the game control microcomputer 101.

The game control board 100 also transmits various commands and signals to the payout control board 170, and receives signals from the payout control board 170 to monitor payouts. The payout control board 170 is connected to a card unit CU (installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine PY1, which enables ball lending based on information such as an inserted prepaid card) and a prize ball payout device 73, as well as to a launching device 72 via a launch control circuit 175. The launching device 72 includes a handle 72k (see Figure 1).

The payout control board 170 drives the prize ball motor 73m of the prize ball payout device 73 to pay out prize balls or pay out loan balls based on signals from the game control microcomputer 101 and signals from the card unit CU connected to the pachinko gaming machine PY1. The paid-out prize balls are detected by the prize ball sensor 73a to count them, and a detection signal from the prize ball sensor 73a is output to the payout control board 170.

When the player operates the handle 72k (see Figure 1) of the launcher 72, the touch switch 72a detects contact with the handle 72k, and the launch volume 72b detects the amount of rotation of the handle 72k. The launch solenoid 72s is then driven to launch a game ball with a strength corresponding to the magnitude of the detection signal from the launch volume 72b. In this pachinko gaming machine PY1, one game ball is launched in approximately 0.6 seconds.

The gaming control board 100 also transmits various commands to the presentation control board 120. The connection between the gaming control board 100 and the presentation control board 120 is a one-way communication connection that only allows signals to be sent from the gaming control board 100 to the presentation control board 120. In other words, a unidirectional circuit (not shown, for example, a circuit using a diode) acts as a communication direction control means between the gaming control board 100 and the presentation control board 120.

As shown in Figure 5, the effect control board 120 is equipped with an effect control one-chip microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as the "effect control microcomputer") 121, which controls the effects of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to a program. The effect control microcomputer 121 includes an effect ROM 123 that stores programs for controlling the effects as the game progresses, an effect RAM 124 used as work memory, an effect CPU 122 that executes the programs stored in the effect ROM 123, and an effect I/O port 138 for inputting and outputting data and signals. Note that the effect ROM 123 may be external.

As shown in FIG. 5, the performance control board 120 is connected to the image control board 140, the audio control board 161 (audio control circuit), and the sub-drive board 162. The frame lamp 212, the board lamp 54, and the board movable body 55k are connected to the sub-drive board 162.

The effect control microcomputer 121 of the effect control board 120 causes the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 to control the image display device 50 based on commands received from the game control board 100. The image control board 140 is equipped with an image ROM 142 that stores programs for controlling image display, etc., an image RAM 143 used as work memory, and the image CPU 141 that executes the programs stored in the image ROM 142. The image ROM 142 stores still image data and video data to be displayed on the image display device 50, specifically image data for characters, items, figures, letters, numbers, symbols, etc. (including effect patterns) and background images.

In addition, the performance control microcomputer 121 outputs voice, music, sound effects, etc. from the speaker 610 via the audio control board 161 based on commands received from the game control board 100. Audio data (also referred to as audio data) such as audio output from the speaker 610 is stored in the performance ROM 123 of the performance control board 120. A CPU may be implemented on the audio control board 161, in which case the CPU may be responsible for audio control. In this case, a ROM may be implemented on the audio control board 161, in which case the audio data may be stored in the ROM. The speaker 610 may also be connected to the image control board 140, in which case the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 may be responsible for audio control. In this case, the audio data may be stored in the image ROM 142 of the image control board 140.

The performance control microcomputer 121 also controls the lighting of lamps such as the frame lamp 212 and board lamp 54 via the sub-drive board 162 based on commands received from the game control board 100. In more detail, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates light emission data (data that determines on/off status, light emission color, etc., also known as lamp data) that determines the light emission mode of each lamp (LED), and controls the light emission of each lamp (LED) in accordance with the light emission data. Note that data stored in the performance ROM 123 of the performance control board 120 is used to create the light emission data.

Furthermore, the performance control microcomputer 121 controls the drive of the movable board body 55k via the sub-drive board 162 based on commands received from the game control board 100. In detail, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates operation pattern data (also called drive data) that determines the operating mode of the movable board body 55k, and controls the drive of the motor that drives the movable board body 55k in accordance with the operation pattern data. Data stored in the performance ROM 123 of the performance control board 120 is used to create the operation pattern data.

In addition, a performance button detection sensor 40a and a select button detection sensor 42a are connected to the performance control board 120. The performance button detection sensor 40a detects when the performance button 40k (see Figure 1) has been pressed. When the performance button 40k is pressed, a detection signal is output from the performance button detection sensor 40a to the performance control board 120. In addition, the select button detection sensor 42a detects when the select button 42k (see Figure 1) has been pressed. When the select button 42k is pressed, a detection signal is output from the select button detection sensor 42a to the performance control board 120.

Note that Figures 4 and 5 are merely functional block diagrams for explaining the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PY1, and the boards shown in Figures 4 and 5 are not the only boards provided. With the exception of the gaming control board 100, any of the boards shown in Figures 4 or 5 may be configured as a single board, and the single board shown in Figures 4 or 5 may be configured as multiple boards.

3. Main Games in Gaming Machines Next, the main games played by the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be explained. The pachinko gaming machine PY1 acquires special symbol-related random numbers based on winning at the first start gate 11 or the second start gate 12. As shown in FIG. 6(A), the special symbol-related random numbers include jackpot random numbers, symbol type random numbers, reach random numbers, and variable pattern random numbers. The jackpot random numbers are used to determine whether or not a jackpot has occurred. The jackpot random numbers take values in the range of 0 to 65535. The symbol type random numbers are used to determine the type of jackpot symbol and the type of losing symbol. The symbol type random numbers take values in the range of 0 to 299.

The reach random number is a random number that determines whether or not a reach will occur in the variable presentation that shows the result when the result of the hit/miss judgment is a miss. The reach random number takes on a value in the range of 0 to 255. A reach is a state in which there is only one variable presentation symbol remaining out of multiple presentation symbols, and depending on which of the variable presentation symbols is displayed as a stopped symbol, a combination of symbols that indicates a jackpot win will result (for example, a "7↓7" state). The presentation symbols that are displayed as stopped symbols in the reach state may be displayed as slightly shaking on the display screen 50a, or as if they are repeatedly expanding and contracting. Such a stopped symbol is called a provisional stopped symbol, and a completely stationary stopped symbol is called a confirmed stopped symbol or final stopped symbol.

Fluctuation pattern random numbers are random numbers used to determine fluctuation patterns, including fluctuation times. Fluctuation pattern random numbers take values in the range of 0 to 99. Random numbers are also called judgment information.

The pachinko gaming machine PY1 also obtains a normal symbol random number (winning random number) shown in Figure 6 (B) based on the passage of the gaming ball through the gate 13. The normal symbol random number is a random number used in the lottery (normal symbol lottery) to determine whether or not to play an auxiliary game that opens the electric chute 12D. The normal symbol random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 65535.

The pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines whether or not a jackpot has occurred by judging the jackpot random number obtained based on a win in the first start slot 11 or the second start slot 12 according to the jackpot determination table shown in Figure 7 (A). In this embodiment, there are two game states with different jackpot winning probabilities: a normal probability state (low probability state) and a high probability state. As shown in Figure 7 (A), in the low probability state, the jackpot winning probability is approximately 1/300 for both the drawing of the first special symbol (Special Symbol 1) based on a win in the first start slot 11 and the drawing of the second special symbol (Special Symbol 2) based on a win in the second start slot 12. On the other hand, in the high probability state, the jackpot winning probability is approximately 1/100 for both the drawing of Special Symbol 1 and the drawing of Special Symbol 2. As such, the high probability state is a game state in which it is easier to win a jackpot than the low probability state.

When pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines that a jackpot has been won, it determines the type of jackpot symbol by judging the symbol type random number according to the jackpot symbol type determination table shown in Figure 7 (B). In the drawing for special symbol 1, there is a 50% chance that it will be determined as "Special symbol 1_Jackpot symbol A," and a 50% chance that it will be determined as "Special symbol 1_Jackpot symbol B." In addition, in the drawing for special symbol 2, there is a 50% chance that it will be determined as "Special symbol 2_Jackpot symbol C," and a 50% chance that it will be determined as "Special symbol 2_Jackpot symbol D." If the type of jackpot symbol that is won is different, the opening pattern of the jackpot slot during jackpot play and the settings related to the game state after jackpot play will differ (see Figure 8). This point will be discussed later.

Furthermore, if the pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines that a jackpot has not been won (i.e., determines that a loss has occurred), it determines the type of losing symbol by judging the symbol type random number according to the losing symbol type determination table shown in Figure 7 (C). In the drawing for special symbol 1, there is a 299/300 chance that it will be determined as "Special symbol 1_losing symbol A," and a 1/300 chance that it will be determined as "Special symbol 1_losing symbol B." On the other hand, in the drawing for special symbol 2, there is a 299/300 chance that it will be determined as "Special symbol 2_losing symbol C," and a 1/300 chance that it will be determined as "Special symbol 2_losing symbol D." Differences in the type of losing symbol affect the settings related to the game state after the losing symbol is stopped and displayed (see Figure 9). This is one of the features of the pachinko gaming machine PY1. This point will be discussed later.

Furthermore, when the pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines a miss, it determines whether or not the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 will be in a reach state in the variable effect by judging the reach random number according to the reach judgment table shown in Figure 7 (D). The probability of a reach being judged to be in a reach state differs depending on whether or not the gaming state is in the time-saving state described below. The probability of a reach being judged to be in a reach state is higher when the time-saving state is not in effect than when the time-saving state is in effect.

Next, the types of jackpots and losses will be explained in detail with reference to Figures 8 and 9. As mentioned above, the results of the special symbol lottery (special symbol 1 lottery and special symbol 2 lottery) can be either a "jackpot" or a "loss." In the event of a "jackpot," a "jackpot symbol" is displayed frozen on the special symbol display 81. Jackpot symbols include "Special symbol 1_jackpot symbol A," "Special symbol 1_jackpot symbol B," "Special symbol 2_jackpot symbol C," and "Special symbol 2_jackpot symbol D." In addition, in the event of a "loss," a "loss symbol" is displayed frozen on the special symbol display 81. Loss symbols include "Special symbol 1_loss symbol A," "Special symbol 1_loss symbol B," "Special symbol 2_loss symbol C," and "Special symbol 2_loss symbol D."

If a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery, a "jackpot game" is executed in which the jackpot opening 14 is opened in an opening pattern corresponding to the type of jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed. In this form, the jackpot game includes multiple rounds of play (unit opening games), an opening (also referred to as OP) before the first round of play begins, and an ending (also referred to as ED) after the final round of play ends. Each round of play begins with the end of the OP or the end of the previous round of play, and ends with the start of the next round of play or the start of the ED. The time (interval time) during which the jackpot opening is closed between rounds of play is included in the round of play that was open before that closure.

If a jackpot is won as a result of the special symbol lottery, a jackpot game is executed, which opens the jackpot opening 14. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, there are two types of jackpot symbols (jackpot symbols stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 81a) that can be won in the lottery for the first special symbol (special symbol 1), and two types of jackpot symbols (jackpot symbols stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 81b) that can be won in the lottery for the second special symbol (special symbol 2). Specifically, in the lottery for special symbol 1, there is a possibility of winning "Special symbol 1_jackpot symbol A" or "Special symbol 1_jackpot symbol B." In addition, in the lottery for special symbol 2, there is a possibility of winning "Special symbol 2_jackpot symbol C" or "Special symbol 2_jackpot symbol D."

As shown in Figure 8, "Special Chart 1_Jackpot Pattern A" and "Special Chart 1_Jackpot Pattern B" are 4R (round) jackpots, while "Special Chart 2_Jackpot Pattern C" and "Special Chart 1_Jackpot Pattern D" are 10R (round) jackpots. For both jackpots, the jackpot opening slot 14 opens once per round, with a maximum opening time of 29.5 seconds.

Furthermore, if "Jackpot Pattern A" or "Jackpot Pattern C" is hit, the game state after the jackpot play is the "low probability/time-saving state" described below, and if "Jackpot Pattern B" or "Jackpot Pattern D" is hit, the game state after the jackpot play is the "high probability/time-saving state" described below. When controlled to the "high probability/time-saving state," the number of chance variations (the maximum number of times that special patterns can be changed in the high probability state) and the number of time-saving variations (the maximum number of times that special patterns can be changed in the time-saving state) are both set to 160. In other words, this form of pachinko gaming machine PY1 is a so-called ST machine (a gaming machine with a limited number of chance variations). The number of time-saving variations corresponds to a predetermined maximum number.

In contrast, when controlled to the "low probability/time-saving state," the number of time-saving cycles is set to a value corresponding to the game state at the time of winning. In this mode, there are three triggers for controlling the time-saving state (corresponding to the bonus game state). These are a jackpot, reaching the ceiling, and a special miss (time-saving miss). Reaching the ceiling means that the number of times the special symbol changes (the variable display of the special symbol) after a jackpot game, excluding during a high probability state, reaches a predetermined ceiling number of times (300 times in this mode, an example of a "specific number of times"). A special miss is a missing symbol (missing symbol B or missing symbol D in this mode) that triggers the control of the time-saving state. A missing symbol that triggers the control of the time-saving state is called a special missing symbol (time-saving missing symbol). Special missing symbols and jackpot symbols correspond to specific symbols. Special missing symbols also correspond to special symbols. Furthermore, the time-saving state triggered by a jackpot is referred to as the jackpot-triggered time-saving state (post-jackpot time-saving, jackpot-triggered bonus game state), the time-saving state triggered by reaching the ceiling is referred to as the ceiling-triggered time-saving state (ceiling time-saving, ceiling-triggered bonus game state), and the time-saving state triggered by a special miss is referred to as the special miss-triggered time-saving state (miss time-saving, special miss-triggered bonus game state). The jackpot-triggered time-saving state and the special miss-triggered time-saving state correspond to the pattern-triggered bonus game state, and the ceiling-triggered time-saving state corresponds to the count-triggered bonus game state. Furthermore, the jackpot-triggered time-saving state corresponds to the specific bonus game state, and the ceiling-triggered time-saving state and the special miss-triggered time-saving state correspond to the non-specific bonus game state. Furthermore, the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state corresponds to the first non-specific bonus game state, and the special miss trigger time-saving state corresponds to the second non-specific bonus game state. Furthermore, the special miss trigger time-saving state corresponds to the special symbol trigger bonus game state.

If the game state when "jackpot pattern A" or "jackpot pattern C" is won is the "non-time-saving state," the number of time-saving cycles in the "low-probability, time-saving state" after the jackpot game is set to 300 (an example of a first value). Furthermore, if the game state when "jackpot pattern A" or "jackpot pattern C" is won is the "jackpot-triggered time-saving state" or the "special miss-triggered time-saving state," the number of time-saving cycles in the "low-probability, time-saving state" after the jackpot game is set to 50 (an example of a second value). Furthermore, if the game state when "jackpot pattern A" or "jackpot pattern C" is won is the "ceiling-reaching-triggered time-saving state," the number of time-saving cycles in the "low-probability, time-saving state" after the jackpot game is set to 300 (an example of a first value). In this way, in this embodiment, when "jackpot pattern A" or "jackpot pattern C" is won in the "non-time-saving state" or "ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving state", the number of time-saving times is set to 300 times, the same as the ceiling number, but when "jackpot pattern A" or "jackpot pattern C" is won in the "jackpot-triggered time-saving state" or "special miss-triggered time-saving state", the number of time-saving times is set to 50 times, which is less than the ceiling number. In other words, when "jackpot pattern A" or "jackpot pattern C" is hit in the "non-time-saving state" or "ceiling-triggered time-saving state," the number of remaining fluctuations from the end of the time-saving state based on "jackpot pattern A" or "jackpot pattern C" to the start of the time-saving state based on reaching the ceiling will be 0 (an example of a predetermined value), but when "jackpot pattern A" or "jackpot pattern C" is hit in the "jackpot-triggered time-saving state" or "special miss-triggered time-saving state," the number of remaining fluctuations from the end of the time-saving state based on "jackpot pattern A" or "jackpot pattern C" to the start of the time-saving state based on reaching the ceiling will be 250 (a value greater than the predetermined value). This is one of the features of this form.

Here, the jackpot trigger time-saving state (post-jackpot time-saving state) based on a jackpot during the jackpot trigger time-saving state (post-jackpot time-saving state) corresponds to the first symbol-triggered bonus game state and the first specific bonus game state. Furthermore, the jackpot trigger time-saving state (post-jackpot time-saving state) based on a jackpot during the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state (ceiling time-saving state) corresponds to the second symbol-triggered bonus game state and the second specific bonus game state. Furthermore, the jackpot trigger time-saving state (post-jackpot time-saving state) based on a jackpot during the special miss-triggered time-saving state (miss-triggered time-saving state) corresponds to the third symbol-triggered bonus game state and the third specific bonus game state.

Furthermore, if the result of the special symbol lottery is determined to be a loss, the type of losing symbol is determined. As shown in Figure 9, there are two types of losing symbols determined in the special symbol 1 lottery (losing symbols stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 81a), and there are two types of losing symbols determined in the special symbol 2 lottery (losing symbols stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 81b). Specifically, in the special symbol 1 lottery, the symbol is determined to be either "Special symbol 1_losing symbol A" or "Special symbol 1_losing symbol B." In addition, in the special symbol 2 lottery, the symbol is determined to be either "Special symbol 2_losing symbol C" or "Special symbol 2_losing symbol D."

"Special symbol 1_losing symbol A" and "Special symbol 2_losing symbol C" are normal losses, while "Special symbol 1_losing symbol B" and "Special symbol 2_losing symbol D" are special losses. A special loss is a loss that triggers control of the time-saving state described below. In other words, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a special loss, the game control microcomputer 101 can control the game state after the missing symbol is displayed to a time-saving state (special loss trigger time-saving state). A special loss is also called a time-saving loss.

Here, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment does not control the time-shortening state based on the special miss if the gaming state when a special miss (missing symbol B or missing symbol D) is in a high-probability state. Furthermore, even if the gaming state when a special miss is in a ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortening state (low-probability state and ceiling time-shortening state), it does not control the time-shortening state based on the special miss. In contrast, if the gaming state when a special miss is in a non-time-shortening state, jackpot trigger time-shortening state, or special miss trigger time-shortening state, in other words, if it is in a low-probability state and a gaming state other than ceiling time-shortening, it controls the time-shortening state based on the special miss.

The number of time-saving cycles in a time-saving state based on a special miss varies depending on the game state when the special miss was drawn. If the game state when the special miss was drawn was a non-time-saving state, the number of time-saving cycles is set to 300 (an example of a first value), the same as the ceiling number of cycles. In contrast, if the game state when the special miss was drawn was a jackpot-triggered time-saving state or a special miss-triggered time-saving state, the number of time-saving cycles is set to 50 (an example of a second value), which is less than the ceiling number of cycles.

In addition, this form of pachinko gaming machine PY1 controls the machine to a time-saving state without going through a jackpot game when the number of times a special symbol change has been performed after a jackpot game (excluding high-probability states) reaches a predetermined number. This predetermined number is called the ceiling number, and in this form it is set to 300 times. Reaching the ceiling when the number of times a special symbol change has been performed after a jackpot game (excluding high-probability states) reaches the ceiling number is called reaching the ceiling. The number of special symbol changes until the ceiling is reached includes the number of special symbol changes in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state, the number of special symbol changes in the special miss-triggered time-saving state, and the number of special symbol changes in the non-time-saving state. In other words, the number of special symbol changes until the ceiling is reached is the total of the number of special symbol changes in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state, the number of special symbol changes in the special miss-triggered time-saving state, and the number of special symbol changes in the non-time-saving state. In addition, in the time-saving state triggered by reaching the ceiling (ceiling time-saving), the number of time-saving times is set to 500, regardless of the game state when the ceiling is reached.

Here, an example of game state transitions in this mode will be explained based on Figures 10 and 11. As shown in Figure 10 (A), if the special pattern changes 300 times in a low-probability non-time-saving state, the ceiling is reached and the game transitions to a time-saving state with 500 time-saving cycles (a time-saving state triggered by reaching the ceiling).

Also, as shown in Figure 10 (B), if jackpot pattern A (a non-probability variable pattern that enters a low probability state after the end of jackpot play) is won based on the lottery for special pattern 1 in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the game will transition to a low-probability state and time-saving state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state) upon the end of jackpot play. The number of time-saving cycles in this jackpot-triggered time-saving state is 300. If the special pattern changes 300 times without winning a jackpot in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state, the ceiling will be reached, and the game will transition to a time-saving state with 500 time-saving cycles (ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving state). In this way, in this form, if jackpot pattern A is won in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is determined that the time-saving state will continue from the end of jackpot play until the ceiling is reached. In other words, after a jackpot game based on jackpot symbol A ends, a 300-time jackpot trigger time-saving state and a 500-time ceiling-reaching time-saving state are executed in succession without any intervening non-time-saving states. This means that the player can essentially continue playing without significantly reducing their ball reserves until they win the next jackpot.

Also, as shown in Figure 10 (C), if a special miss (missing symbol B) is drawn based on the drawing of special symbol 1 in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the game will transition to a low-probability state and time-saving state (special miss-triggered time-saving state) in response to the stop display of missing symbol B. The number of time-saving cycles in this special miss-triggered time-saving state is 300. When the ceiling is reached in the special miss-triggered time-saving state, that is, when the cumulative number of special symbol changes from the low-probability non-time-saving state prior to the special miss-triggered time-saving state reaches the ceiling number (300 cycles), the game will transition to a time-saving state with 500 time-saving cycles (ceiling-reaching triggered time-saving state), even if there are time-saving cycles remaining in the special miss-triggered time-saving state. In other words, in this form, the ceiling-reaching triggered time-saving state takes priority over the special miss-triggered time-saving state. In this way, in this mode, if a special miss occurs in a low-probability, non-time-saving state, the number of time-saving cycles transitions to a time-saving state of 300, and the continuation of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached is confirmed. Note that, because the number of time-saving cycles in the ceiling-reach trigger time-saving state is 500, if a special miss occurs in a low-probability, non-time-saving state, the player can continue playing for a long period of time, long enough to potentially win a jackpot, without significantly reducing their ball reserves.

Also, as shown in Figure 11 (D), if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn on special pattern 2 while in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state, the game will transition to a low-probability state and time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state) upon the end of the jackpot game. The number of time-saving cycles in this jackpot trigger time-saving state is 50. If the special pattern changes 50 times without a jackpot being won while in the jackpot trigger time-saving state, the time-saving state will end and the game will transition to a low-probability non-time-saving state. At this point, there are still 250 special pattern cycles remaining until the ceiling is reached. In this way, in this form, even if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn while in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state, the continuation of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached is not confirmed.

Also, as shown in Figure 11 (E), if a special miss (missing symbol D) is drawn based on the lottery of special symbol 2 in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state, the game will transition to a low-probability state and time-saving state (special miss trigger time-saving state) in accordance with the stop display of miss symbol D. The number of time-saving cycles in this special miss trigger time-saving state is 50. If the special symbol changes 50 times in the special miss trigger time-saving state without winning a jackpot or reaching the ceiling, the time-saving state will end and the game will transition to a low-probability non-time-saving state. Thus, in this form, even if a special miss (missing symbol D) is drawn in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state, this alone does not ensure that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached.

Also, as shown in Figure 11 (F), if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn based on the lottery of special pattern 2 during the ceiling-triggering time-saving state, the game will transition to a low-probability state and time-saving state (jackpot-triggering time-saving state) upon the end of the jackpot game. The number of time-saving cycles in this jackpot-triggering time-saving state is 300. If the special pattern changes 300 times during the jackpot-triggering time-saving state without a jackpot being won, the ceiling will be reached, and the game will transition to a time-saving state with 500 time-saving cycles (ceiling-triggering time-saving state). Thus, in this form, if jackpot pattern C is drawn during the ceiling-triggering time-saving state, it is determined that the time-saving state will continue from the end of the jackpot game until the ceiling is reached. In other words, after the end of the jackpot game based on jackpot pattern C, the 300-cycle jackpot-triggering time-saving state and the 500-cycle ceiling-triggering time-saving state will be executed in succession without any intervening non-time-saving state. This means that players can essentially continue playing until they win the next jackpot without losing a significant amount of balls.

Also, as shown in Figure 11 (G), even if a special miss (missing symbol D) is drawn based on the lottery of special symbol 2 while in the ceiling-triggering time-saving state, the game state settings will not change. In other words, even if a special miss is drawn, the time-saving state will not be set accordingly, and the ceiling-triggering time-saving state will continue, just as when a normal miss is drawn. In other words, in this form, the ceiling-triggering time-saving state takes priority over the special miss-triggering time-saving state.

As explained above with reference to Figures 10 and 11, in this form of pachinko gaming machine PY1, if a jackpot symbol A (non-probability symbol) or a special miss (miss symbol B) is drawn based on the lottery on Special Chart 1 in a low-probability non-time-saving state, the machine will transition to a time-saving state in which the number of time-saving times is 300, the same as the ceiling number (see Figures 10 (B) and (C)). In other words, the continuation of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached is confirmed.

Then, in this 300-time time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state), if the ceiling is reached without a jackpot or special miss, the state transitions to the ceiling-trigger time-saving state. If jackpot pattern C (non-variable pattern) is won in the ceiling-trigger time-saving state, the number of time-saving times in the time-saving state after the jackpot is set to 300, and the continuation of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached is confirmed again (Figure 11 (F)).

On the other hand, if a player hits jackpot symbol C (non-probability variable symbol) or a special miss (miss symbol D) during the time-saving state before reaching the ceiling (jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state), the game will enter a 50-time time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state), and the continuation of the time-saving state until reaching the ceiling is not confirmed (see Figures 11 (D) and (E)). In this way, in this mode, if a player hits a jackpot (non-probability variable symbol) or hits a special miss during the time-saving state triggering a jackpot or special miss (i.e., before reaching the ceiling), the continuation of the time-saving state until reaching the ceiling is not confirmed. However, if a player hits a jackpot (non-probability variable symbol) during the time-saving state triggering a ceiling (i.e., after reaching the ceiling), the continuation of the time-saving state until reaching the ceiling is confirmed (i.e., the latter is more advantageous than the former), providing a novel gameplay experience. Therefore, this mode is expected to increase gameplay enjoyment.

Here, we will explain the gaming states of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment. In this embodiment, the gaming states include a low-probability non-time-saving state (low-probability state and non-time-saving state), a low-probability time-saving state (low-probability state and time-saving state), and a high-probability time-saving state (high-probability state and time-saving state). The low-probability non-time-saving state is also called a low-probability low-base gaming state (low-probability low-base state) or a normal gaming state, the low-probability time-saving state is also called a low-probability high-base gaming state (low-probability high-base state), and the high-probability time-saving state is also called a high-probability high-base gaming state (high-probability high-base state). When playing pachinko gaming machine PY1 for the first time, the gaming state after powering on is the low-probability non-time-saving state (normal gaming state).

As shown in Figure 7 (A), the high probability state is a game state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than in the low probability state (normal probability state). That is, in the high probability state, the probability fluctuation function of the special symbol display 81 is activated. The high probability state ends when the variable display of the special symbol is executed a predetermined maximum number of times, or when a jackpot is won and the jackpot game is executed. The maximum number of times (number of chance jackpots) in the high probability state is set to 160 times regardless of which chance jackpot (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) is won (see Figure 8).

The time-saving state is a game state in which it is easier for the game ball to land in the electric chute 12D than in the non-time-saving state. There are three time-saving states, depending on the control trigger: the jackpot trigger time-saving state, the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state, and the special miss trigger time-saving state. Note that the normal symbol variation pattern and the electric chute 12D opening pattern are the same regardless of whether the time-saving state is the jackpot trigger time-saving state, the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state, or the special miss trigger time-saving state.

Next, the time-saving state will be explained in more detail. As shown in Figure 12 (A), the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery in the time-saving state is the same as the winning probability of the normal symbol in the non-time-saving state. Specifically, in this embodiment, the probability of a winning normal symbol lottery is set to 65,535/65,536 in both the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state. In other words, in both game states, the normal symbol lottery is almost always judged to be a winning symbol. Note that the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery may be higher in the time-saving state than in the non-time-saving state (in other words, the probability fluctuation function of the normal symbol display 82 may be activated in the time-saving state).

Furthermore, in the time-saving state, as shown in Figure 12 (B), the normal symbol fluctuation time is shorter than in the non-time-saving state. In this embodiment, the normal symbol fluctuation time is 60 seconds in the non-time-saving state, but 1 second in the time-saving state. In other words, in the time-saving state, the fluctuation time shortening function of the normal symbol display 82 is activated.

Furthermore, in the time-saving mode, as shown in Figure 12 (C), the open time of the electric chute 12D during auxiliary play is longer than in the non-time-saving mode. In this embodiment, the open time of the electric chute 12D is 0.05 seconds per play in the non-time-saving mode, but is 2.5 seconds in the time-saving mode. In other words, in the time-saving mode, the open time extension function of the electric chute 12D is activated.

Furthermore, in the time-saving mode, as shown in Figure 12 (C), the number of times the electric chute 12D opens during auxiliary play is greater than in the non-time-saving mode. In this embodiment, the electric chute 12D opens once in the non-time-saving mode, but twice in the time-saving mode. In other words, in the time-saving mode, the function to increase the number of times the electric chute 12D opens is activated.

Here, in the non-time-saving mode, if a normal symbol lottery is executed, it will almost certainly result in a win, but the normal symbol variation time is long at 60 seconds, and electric chute 12D opens only once in the supplementary game for 0.05 seconds, which is extremely short. Therefore, in the non-time-saving mode, even if you play with a right-handed shot (a shot that allows the game ball to pass through gate 13), there is almost no chance of winning on electric chute 12D.

In contrast, in the time-saving mode, if a normal symbol lottery is executed, it almost always results in a win, the normal symbol variation time is short at 1 second, and the electric chute 12D opens twice in supplementary play for 2.5 seconds, which is quite long. Therefore, in the time-saving mode, playing with a right-hand hit can frequently result in winning on the electric chute 12D. In other words, the time-saving mode can be said to be a gaming mode in which it is easier to win on the electric chute 12D than in the non-time-saving mode.

In this way, when the time-saving mode is not active, hitting the right side does not result in a win in the electric chute 12D, so the player plays by hitting the left side. On the other hand, when the time-saving mode is active, hitting the right side frequently results in a win in the electric chute 12D, so the player plays by hitting the right side. Note that with this pachinko gaming machine PY1, play is performed by hitting the right side even during a jackpot game.

Incidentally, in the time-saving state, the base, which is the ratio of the number of winning balls to the number of balls fired, is higher than in the non-time-saving state. Therefore, the time-saving state is also called the "high base state," and the non-time-saving state is also called the "low base state." In the high base state, you can aim for a jackpot without significantly reducing the number of game balls you have. The high base state is a state in which so-called electric support control (control that supports winning through the second starting hole 12 using the electric chute 12D) is being executed. Therefore, the high base state is also called the electric support control state. The low base state is also called the non-electric support control state. The time-saving state (high base state) is an example of a "bonus game state," and the non-time-saving state (low base state) is an example of a "non-bonus game state."

In addition, the time-saving state (high base state) may be achieved by activating one or more of the following functions: the probability variation function of the normal map display 82, the variation time reduction function of the normal map display 82, the opening time extension function of the electric chute 12D, and the opening count increase function of the electric chute 12D, making it easier for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 12 associated with the electric chute 12D than when those functions are not activated; it is not necessary for all of these functions to be activated.

Next, we will explain how the special symbol variation pattern (special symbol variation pattern) is determined. The pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines the special symbol variation pattern according to a special symbol variation pattern determination table that differs depending on the game state (see Figures 13 and 14). The special symbol variation pattern determination tables (Figures 14 (A) (B)) in the time-saving state (high-probability time-saving state, low-probability time-saving state) are tables that make it easier to select variation patterns with shorter variation times than the special symbol variation pattern determination table (Figure 13) in the non-time-saving state (low-probability non-time-saving state).

Specifically, in the non-time-saving state (low-probability non-time-saving state), the lottery for special symbol 1 is mainly performed, so the table shown in the special symbol 1 column in Figure 13 is used. In the special symbol variation pattern determination table for the non-time-saving state (Figure 13), variation pattern P7 with an 8-second variation time is determined as the variation pattern for special symbol 1 related to a no-reach miss when the number of reserved balls for special symbol 1 is 3 to 4. Furthermore, if a special miss (miss symbol B, miss symbol D) is drawn in the low-probability non-time-saving state, special symbol variation patterns P8 and P38 accompanied by a time-saving transition effect, which will be described later, are selected (see Figure 13). Execution of this time-saving transition effect notifies the player that they will be transitioning to the time-saving state (special miss-triggered time-saving state). This point will be discussed later.

On the other hand, in the time-saving mode, the lottery for Special Chart 2 is mainly conducted, so the table shown in the Special Chart 2 column in Figures 14(A)(B) is used. In the special chart fluctuation pattern determination table for the time-saving mode (Figures 14(A)(B)), fluctuation patterns P47 and P57 with a fluctuation time of 3 seconds are determined as the fluctuation patterns for Special Chart 2 related to a no-reach miss when the number of reserved balls for Special Chart 2 is 2 to 4.

Also, in the high-probability time-saving state, even if a special miss (missing symbol D, missing symbol B) is drawn, the game state setting is not changed, so the same special symbol change pattern as when a normal miss (missing symbol C, missing symbol A) is drawn is selected (see FIG. 14A). On the other hand, if a special miss (missing symbol D, missing symbol B) is drawn in the low-probability time-saving state, if the time-saving state is a jackpot trigger or special miss trigger, the game state setting is changed, so the special symbol change pattern P58, P28 accompanied by the time-saving transition effect described below is selected (see FIG. 14B). The execution of this time-saving transition effect notifies the player that a new time-saving state (special miss trigger time-saving state) has been set. However, even if a special miss (miss symbol D, miss symbol B) is drawn in the low probability time-saving state, if the ceiling reaching trigger time-saving state is in progress, the game state setting will not be changed (it will not transition to the special miss trigger time-saving state). Therefore, in this case, the special pattern variation patterns P59 and P29 that do not accompany the time-saving transition performance will be selected (see FIG. 14 (B)
)). When the special chart variation patterns P59 and P29 are selected, a variation performance accompanied by an SP reach with the same content as the SP reach based on a reach miss is executed.

4. Operation of the Game Control Microcomputer 101 [Main Control Processing] Next, the operation of the game control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to Figures 15 to 31. The counters, timers, flags, statuses, buffers, and the like mentioned in the description of the operation of the game control microcomputer 101 are stored in the game RAM 104. When the power to the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is turned on, the game control microcomputer 101 provided on the game control board 100 reads and executes the main control processing program shown in Figure 15 from the game ROM 103. As shown in Figure 15, the main control processing begins with initial setup (step S001). This initial setup includes, for example, stack setup, constant setup, interrupt time setup, game CPU 102 setup, SIO, PIO, and CTC (a circuit for managing interrupt time), and resetting of various flags, statuses, counters, and the like. The initial value of the flag is "0" or "OFF", the initial value of the status is "1", and the initial value of the counter is "0". Note that the initial setting (S001) is executed only once after power is turned on and is not executed thereafter.

Following the initial setting (S001), interrupts are disabled (S002), and the normal and special symbol main random number update process (S003) is executed. In this normal and special symbol main random number update process (S003), the various random number counter values shown in Figure 6 are updated by incrementing them by 1. When each random number counter value reaches its upper limit, it returns to "0" and is incremented again. The period initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0" and may be changed randomly. Each random number may also be a so-called hardware random number generated using a known random number generation circuit consisting of a counter IC or the like.

When the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S003) is completed, an interrupt is permitted (S004). While the interrupt is permitted, the main timer interrupt process (S005) can be executed. The main timer interrupt process (S005) is executed based on an interrupt pulse repeatedly input to the gaming CPU 102, for example, at a cycle of 4 msec. That is, it is executed at a cycle of 4 msec, for example. Then, after the main timer interrupt process (S005) is completed and before the next main timer interrupt process (S005) is started, the update process for various counter values by the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S003) is repeatedly executed. Note that if an interrupt pulse is input to the gaming CPU 102 while the interrupt is prohibited, the main timer interrupt process (S005) does not start immediately, but starts after the interrupt is permitted (S004).

[Main timer interrupt processing] Next, the main timer interrupt processing (S005) will be explained. As shown in FIG. 16, the main timer interrupt processing (S005) first executes output processing (S101). In output processing (S101), commands and the like set in the output buffer provided in the gaming RAM 104 of the gaming control board 100 in each of the processes described below are output to the performance control board 120, payout control board 170, etc.

In the input process (S102) that follows the output process (S101), detection signals detected by various sensors (first start gate sensor 11a, second start gate sensor 12a, special prize gate sensor 14a, regular prize gate sensor 10a, etc. (see Figure 4)) attached to the pachinko gaming machine PY1 are read and stored as prize ball information in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104. A detection signal from the lower tray full switch, which detects whether the lower tray 35 is full, is also captured and stored as lower tray full data in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104. The number of prize balls awarded for each prize gate is set to a predetermined value, such as two balls for the second start gate 12. However, the number of prize balls awarded for each prize gate can be changed as appropriate.

The next normal/special symbol main random number update process (S103) is the same as the normal/special symbol main random number update process (S003) performed in the main control main process of Figure 15. In other words, the update process for the various random number counter values (including the normal symbol random number counter value) shown in Figure 6 is performed both during the execution period of the main timer interrupt process (S005) and during other periods (the period from the end of the main timer interrupt process (S005) until the start of the next main timer interrupt process (S005)).

Following the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S103), the following processes are executed: sensor detection process (S104), normal operation process (S105), and special operation process (S106), which will be described later. Then, other processes (S107) are executed, and the main timer interrupt process (S005) is terminated. Examples of other processes (S107) include controlling the second special symbol reserved indicator 83b to display a number based on the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2, which will be described later, and controlling the first special symbol reserved indicator 83a to display a number based on the number of reserved balls for special symbol 1, which will be described later. Steps S002 to S004 of the main control process are then repeatedly executed (see FIG. 15) until the next interrupt pulse is input to the gaming CPU 102. When the interrupt pulse is input (approximately 4 msec later), the main timer interrupt process (S005) is executed again. When the output process (S101) of the main timer interrupt process (S005) is executed again, the commands etc. set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104 during the previous main timer interrupt process (S005) are output.

[Sensor Detection Processing] As shown in FIG. 17, the sensor detection processing (S104) first determines whether a gaming ball has passed through gate 13, i.e., whether a gaming ball has been detected by gate sensor 13a (S201). If the gaming ball has not passed through gate 13 (NO in S201), proceed to step S205. If the gaming ball has passed through (YES in S201), determine whether the number of reserved balls (the number of reserved balls, specifically the value of the counter that counts the number of reserved balls provided in gaming RAM 104) has reached "4" (S202). If the number of reserved balls has reached "4" (YES in S202), proceed to step S205. However, if the number of reserved balls is less than "4" (NO in S202), add "1" to the number of reserved balls (S203).

Next, a process for obtaining random numbers related to the normal symbols is performed (S204). In the process for obtaining random numbers related to the normal symbols (S204), the value of the normal symbol random number counter (the value of Label-TRND-H, see Figure 6 (B)) is obtained, and the obtained random number value is stored in a memory area in the normal symbol reserve memory unit 106 that corresponds to the current number of normal symbol reserved balls.

In step S205, it is determined whether a gaming ball has entered the first starting hole 11, i.e., whether a gaming ball has been detected by the first starting hole sensor 11a. If a gaming ball has not entered the first starting hole 11 (NO in S205), the process proceeds to step S209. However, if a gaming ball has entered the first starting hole 11 (YES in S205), it is determined whether the number of reserved balls for special chart 1 (the number of reserved first special charts, specifically the value of the counter that counts the number of reserved first special charts provided in gaming RAM 104) has reached "4" (the upper limit) (S206). If the number of reserved balls for special chart 1 has reached "4" (YES in S206), the process proceeds to step S209. However, if the number of reserved balls for special chart 1 is less than "4" (NO in S206), "1" is added to the number of reserved balls for special chart 1 (S207).

Next, special chart 1 related random number acquisition processing is performed (S208). In the special chart 1 related random number acquisition processing (S208), the value of the jackpot random number counter (value of label -TRND-A), the value of the symbol type random number counter (value of label -TRND-AS), the value of the reach random number counter (value of label -TRND-RC), and the value of the variation pattern random number counter (value of label -TRND-T1) are acquired (i.e., the random number group shown in Figure 6 (A) is acquired), and these acquired random number values are stored in a memory area in the first special chart reserved memory unit 105a corresponding to the current number of reserved balls for special chart 1.

Next, in the sensor detection process (S104), it is determined whether a gaming ball has entered the second starting hole 12, i.e., whether a gaming ball has been detected by the second starting hole sensor 12a (S209). If a gaming ball has not entered the second starting hole 12 (NO in S209), this process ends. However, if a gaming ball has entered the second starting hole 12 (YES in S209), it is determined whether the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 (the number of reserved second symbols, specifically, the value of the counter that counts the number of reserved second symbols provided in the gaming RAM 104) has reached "4" (the upper limit) (S210). If the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 has reached "4" (YES in S210), this process ends. However, if the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 has not reached "4" (NO in S210), "1" is added to the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 (S211).

Next, the special symbol 2 related random number acquisition process is performed (S212), and this process is completed. In the special symbol 2 related random number acquisition process (S212), similar to the special symbol 1 related random number acquisition process (S208), the jackpot random number counter value (label-TRND-A), symbol type random number counter value (label-TRND-AS), reach random number counter value (label-TRND-RC), and fluctuation pattern random number counter value (label-TRND-T1) are acquired (i.e., the random number group shown in Figure 6 (A) is acquired), and these acquired random number values are stored in a memory area in the second special symbol reserved memory unit 105b corresponding to the current number of reserved balls for special symbol 2.

[Normal Operation Processing] Following the sensor detection processing (S104), the game control microcomputer 101 performs the normal operation processing (S105) shown in Figure 18. As shown in Figure 18, in the normal operation processing (S105), first, it determines whether the electric chute 12D is operating (S401). If the electric chute 12D is not operating (NO in S401), it then determines whether a stopped normal symbol is being displayed (S402). If a stopped normal symbol is not being displayed (NO in S402), it then determines whether a variable normal symbol is being displayed (S403). If a variable normal symbol is not being displayed (NO in S403), it then determines whether the number of reserved balls for the normal symbol is "0" (S404). If the number of reserved balls for the normal symbol is "0" (YES in S404), this processing ends.

If the number of reserved balls for normal symbols is not "0" in step S404 (NO in S404), a win determination process is performed (S405). In the win determination process (S405), the normal symbol random number counter value (the value of Label-TRND-H) stored in the normal symbol reserved memory unit 106 is read, and if the time-saving state is not active, a win or loss is determined based on the normal symbol win determination table for the non-time-saving state (see the non-time-saving state column in the table shown in FIG. 12(A)). If the time-saving state is active, a win or loss is determined based on the normal symbol win determination table for the time-saving state (see the time-saving state column in the table shown in FIG. 12(A)). Then, a pattern determination process is performed to set normal symbol stop symbol data corresponding to the result of the win determination in a predetermined memory area of the gaming RAM 104 (S406). That is, in the pattern determination process (S406), if the result is a "miss," data corresponding to a "normal symbol miss symbol" is set, and if the result is a "win," data corresponding to a "normal symbol win symbol" is set.

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 performs normal pattern change time determination processing (S407). In the normal pattern change time determination processing (S407), the normal pattern change pattern selection table shown in FIG. 12 (B) is referenced, and if the game state is not in the time-saving state, a normal pattern change pattern with a normal pattern change time of 60 seconds is selected. On the other hand, if the game state is in the time-saving state, a normal pattern change pattern with a normal pattern change time of 1 second is selected.

The game control microcomputer 101 then decrements the number of reserved normal symbol balls by one (S408). It then shifts the storage location (memory area) of each reserved normal symbol in the normal symbol reserve memory unit 106 by one location from its current position toward the side from which it is read, and clears the memory area corresponding to the fourth reserved symbol in the normal symbol reserve memory unit 106 (the memory area farthest from the side from which it is read) (S409). In this way, the reserved normal symbols are consumed in the order in which they were reserved. The game control microcomputer 101 then begins displaying the normal symbol variations using the normal symbol variation pattern selected in step S407 (S410). At the same time, it sets a normal symbol variation start command to notify the performance control board 120 that the normal symbol variations have begun.

If the normal symbol fluctuation display is in progress in step S403 (YES in S403), it is then determined whether the normal symbol fluctuation time has elapsed (S411), and if not, processing ends. On the other hand, if the time has elapsed (YES in S411), the normal symbol fluctuation display is stopped with the display result (normal winning symbol or normal losing symbol) corresponding to the determination result of the normal symbol random number (S412). Then, a normal symbol fluctuation stop command is set to the performance control board 120 to notify the normal symbol fluctuation stop (S413), and the normal symbol stop time (500 ms in this embodiment, see Figure 12 (B)) is set (S414), and processing ends.

Also, if a normal symbol is currently displayed in step S402 (YES in S402), it is then determined whether the normal symbol stop time set in step S414 has elapsed (S415), and if not, processing ends. On the other hand, if it has elapsed (YES in S415), it is determined whether normal symbol stop symbol data for a normal winning symbol has been set (S416), and if it is not data for a normal winning symbol (i.e., if there is no win (NO in S416)), processing ends. On the other hand, if it is data for a normal winning symbol (i.e., if there is a win (YES in S416)), the opening pattern of electric chute 12D is set (S417). In detail, if the non-time-saving state is in effect, the opening pattern for electric chute 12D is set to the opening pattern for the non-time-saving state (see electric chute opening TBL1 in Figure 12 (C)). On the other hand, if the time-saving mode is active, the opening pattern for the time-saving mode (see electric chute opening TBL2 in Figure 12 (C)) is set as the opening pattern for the electric chute 12D. Then, the electric chute 12D is operated according to the opening pattern set in step S417 (S418).

Also, if the electric chute 12D is in operation in step S401 described above (YES in S401), it is then determined whether the operation time of the electric chute 12D has elapsed (S419), and if not, the processing ends. On the other hand, if the time has elapsed (YES in S419), the operation of the electric chute 12D is terminated (S420).

[Special Operation Processing] Following the normal operation processing (S105), the game control microcomputer 101 performs the special operation processing (S106) shown in Figure 19. In the special operation processing (S106), the processing related to the special symbol display 41 and the big prize device 14D is divided into four stages, and each stage is assigned a "special operation status 1, 2, 3, 4." If the "special operation status" is "1" (YES in S901), special symbol standby processing (S902) is performed; if the "special operation status" is "2" (NO in S901, YES in S903), special symbol changing processing (S904) is performed; if the "special operation status" is "3" (NO in both S901 and S903, YES in S905), special symbol determination processing (S906) is performed; and if the "special operation status" is "4" (NO in all S901, S903, and S905), special electric device processing 1 (S907) is performed as a jackpot game. The special operation status is initially set to "1".

[Special symbol standby process] As shown in Figure 20, the special symbol standby process (S902) first determines whether the number of reserved balls in the second starting port 12 (i.e., the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2) is "0" (S1001). If the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 is "0" (YES in S1001), that is, if there is no memory of a group of random number counter values obtained as a result of winning at the second starting port 12, it determines whether the number of reserved balls in the first starting port 11 (i.e., the number of reserved balls for special symbol 1) is "0" (S1007). If the number of reserved balls for Special Chart 1 is also "0" (YES in S1007), that is, if there is no memory of the random number counter value group obtained as a result of winning at the first starting port 11, it is determined whether the display screen 50a of the image display device 50 has already been set to the standby screen (demo screen for waiting for customers) (S1013). If so (YES in S1013), the processing ends; if not (NO in S1013), the standby screen setting process (S1014) is performed. In the standby screen setting process (S1014), a predetermined standby time is awaited, and a standby command for waiting for customers is set to display the standby screen.

If the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 is not "0" in step S1001 (NO in S1001), i.e., if there is a memory of a group of random number counter values obtained as a result of winning at the second starting hole 12 (reserved information for special symbol 2), the special symbol 2 jackpot determination process (S1002) and special symbol 2 variation pattern selection process (S1003), described below, are performed. The game control microcomputer 101 then decrements the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 by 1 (S1004). The storage location (memory area) for various counter values in the second special symbol reservation memory unit 105b is then shifted one position from the current position toward the side from which the ball is to be read, and the memory area corresponding to the fourth reserved ball in the second special symbol reservation memory unit 105b (the memory area farthest from the side from which the ball is to be read) is cleared (S1005). In this way, the reserved second symbol balls are consumed in the order in which they were reserved. Next, the game control microcomputer 101 executes the special symbol 2 variation start process (S1006). In the special symbol 2 variation start process (S1006), the special operation status is set to "2" and a variation start command is set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104, thereby starting the variable display of the second special symbol. The variation start command (also called the special symbol 2 variation start command) set in the special symbol 2 variation start process (S1006) includes information on the special symbol stop symbol data set in the special symbol 2 jackpot determination process (S1002) and information on the variation pattern set in the special symbol 2 variation pattern selection process (S1003) (information including variation time information).

Also, if the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 is "0" but the number of reserved balls for special symbol 1 is not "0" (YES in S1001 and NO in S1007), i.e., there is no reserved information for special symbol 2 but there is one or more stored random number counter values (reserved information for special symbol 1) obtained as a result of winning at the first starting hole 11, the special symbol 1 jackpot determination process (S1008) and special symbol 1 variation pattern selection process (S1009) described below are performed. The game control microcomputer 101 then decrements the number of reserved balls for special symbol 1 by 1 (S1010). The storage location (memory area) for various counter values in the first special symbol reservation memory unit 105a is then shifted one position from the current position toward the side from which the value is to be read, and the memory area corresponding to the fourth reserved ball in the first special symbol reservation memory unit 105a (the memory area farthest from the side from which the value is to be read) is cleared (S1011). In this way, the first special symbol reservations are consumed in the order in which they were reserved. Next, the game control microcomputer 101 executes the special symbol 1 variation start process (S1012). In the special symbol 1 variation start process (S1012), the special operation status is set to "2" and a variation start command is set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104, thereby starting the variation display of the first special symbol. The variation start command (also referred to as the special symbol 1 variation start command) set in the special symbol 1 variation start process (S1012) includes information on the special symbol stop symbol data set in the special symbol 1 jackpot determination process (S1008) and information on the variation pattern set in the special symbol 1 variation pattern selection process (S1009) (information including variation time information).

As mentioned above, in this mode, the display of the variable special symbol based on the reserved first special symbol is only performed when the reserved second special symbol is "0" (YES in S1001). In other words, the reserved second special symbol is consumed before the reserved first special symbol is consumed.

[Special Chart 2 Jackpot Determination Processing (Special Chart 1 Jackpot Determination Processing)] The special chart 2 jackpot determination processing (S1002) and the special chart 1 jackpot determination processing (S1008) have the same processing flow, so they will be explained together based on Figure 21. As shown in Figure 21, in the special chart 2 jackpot determination processing (S1002) or the special chart 1 jackpot determination processing (S1008), the jackpot random number counter value (value of label-TRND-A) is first read as the determination value (S1101). In more detail, in the special chart 2 jackpot determination processing (S1002), the jackpot random number counter value stored in the second special chart reserve memory section 105b of the gaming RAM 104 (more specifically, the memory area corresponding to the first second special chart reserve) is read. Additionally, in the special chart 1 jackpot determination process (S1008), the jackpot random number counter value stored in the first special chart reserved memory unit 105a of the gaming RAM 104 (more specifically, the memory area corresponding to the first reserved first special chart) is read.

Next, the jackpot determination table (Figure 7(A)) is set (S1102). That is, if the state is normal probability (low probability state), the table for the low probability state from among the jackpot determination tables is set. On the other hand, if the state is high probability, the table for the high probability state from among the jackpot determination tables is set. Next, it is determined whether or not there is a jackpot based on the set jackpot determination table (S1103). If the result of the jackpot determination (S1103) is a "jackpot," the jackpot flag is turned ON (S1104), and the symbol type random number counter value (value of label-TRND-AS) is read out, and the jackpot symbol type (type of jackpot) is determined based on the jackpot symbol type determination table shown in Figure 7(B) (S1105). After determining the jackpot symbol type (S1105), the special symbol stop symbol data corresponding to the jackpot symbol type (see FIG. 7(B)) is set in the special symbol type buffer provided in the gaming RAM 104 (S1106), and processing ends.

On the other hand, if the result of the jackpot determination (S1103) is not a "jackpot," it is a "miss," so the symbol type random number counter value (value of label-TRND-AS) is read, and the type of missing symbol (type of miss) is determined based on the missing symbol type determination table shown in Figure 7 (C) (S1107). After the type of missing symbol is determined (S1107), the special symbol stop symbol data corresponding to the missing symbol type (see Figure 7 (C)) is set in the special symbol type buffer provided in the gaming RAM 104 (S1108), and processing ends.

[Special Chart 2 Variation Pattern Selection Process (Special Chart 1 Variation Pattern Selection Process)] The Special Chart 2 Variation Pattern Selection Process (S1003) and the Special Chart 1 Variation Pattern Selection Process (S1009) have the same processing flow, so they will be explained together based on Figures 22 and 23. As shown in Figure 22, the Special Chart 2 Variation Pattern Selection Process (S1003) or the Special Chart 1 Variation Pattern Selection Process (S1009) first determines whether the game state is in a non-time-saving state (whether the time-saving flag is OFF or not) (S1301).

If the game is not in the time-saving mode (YES in S1301), it is then determined whether the jackpot flag is ON (S1302). If it is ON (YES in S1302), the table for jackpots in the non-time-saving mode (the portion of the table shown in Figure 13 that corresponds to the jackpot) is referenced, and a fluctuation pattern is selected based on the fluctuation pattern random number counter value (value of label-TRND-T1) (S1303). As shown in Figure 13, once the fluctuation pattern is determined, the fluctuation time is also determined.

Fluctuating patterns are associated with fluctuation effects, and once a fluctuation pattern is determined, a fluctuation effect corresponding to that fluctuation pattern is executed. Specifically, for example, an SP reach is executed in a fluctuation effect based on fluctuation pattern P1, and a normal reach (N reach) is executed in a fluctuation effect based on fluctuation pattern P2 (see the notes section of the table in Figure 13). Here, an SP reach (super reach) is a reach with a longer fluctuation time after the reach than a normal reach, and the allocation rate of the table is set so that the winning expectancy (expectation of winning a jackpot) is higher than that of a normal reach. In this form, a super reach is executed in a progressive manner via a normal reach.

Also, in step S1302, if the jackpot flag is not ON (NO in S1302), it is determined whether the type of losing symbol is a special losing symbol (losing symbol B or losing symbol D) (S1304). A special losing symbol is a losing symbol that transitions to a time-saving state (special losing trigger time-saving state) depending on the elapsed time of the special symbol (see Figure 9). If the type of losing symbol is a special losing symbol (losing symbol B or losing symbol D) (YES in S1304), a fluctuation pattern is selected based on the fluctuation pattern random number counter value (value of label-TRND-T1) by referring to the table for special losing symbols during non-time-saving state (the portion of the table shown in Figure 13 that corresponds to special losing symbols) (S1305). In this embodiment, if the losing symbol is B, special symbol fluctuation pattern P8 is selected, and if the losing symbol is D, special symbol fluctuation pattern P38 is selected.

In this mode, if special chart variation pattern P8 or P38 is determined, an SP reach, which has a high probability of winning, is executed. In this SP reach, a failure effect (a failure effect) is executed, but then a time-saving transition effect is executed, suggesting a transition to a time-saving state (see Figures 41 (A) to (D)). This point will be discussed later.

Furthermore, in step S1304, if it is not a special miss (NO in S1304), it is a normal miss (missing symbol A, missing symbol C, see Figure 9), so next it is determined whether the reach random number counter value (value of label - TRND - RC) is a reach establishment random number value (S1306). As shown in Figure 7 (D), the reach establishment random number value is "0" to "11" in the time-saving state, and "0" to "27" in the non-time-saving state. In other words, a reach is less likely to occur in the time-saving state when there is a normal miss than in the non-time-saving state. This is because by selecting more non-reach misses with short fluctuation times in the time-saving state, the speed at which special reserved symbols are consumed is increased. If the reach random number counter value is a reach-established random number value (YES in S1306), that is, if there is a reach but not a miss, the table for reach but not a miss during non-time-saving mode (the portion of the table shown in Figure 13 that corresponds to reach but not a miss) is referenced, and a fluctuation pattern is selected based on the fluctuation pattern random number counter value (S1307).

On the other hand, if the reach random number counter value is not a reach-established random number value (NO in S1306), i.e., if it is a no-reach miss, the table for no-reach misses during non-time-saving mode (the portion of the table shown in Figure 13 that corresponds to no-reach misses) is referenced, and a fluctuation pattern is selected based on the fluctuation pattern random number counter value (S1308).

In addition, when there is a miss without a reach in the special symbol 1 variation pattern selection process (S1009), a shortened variation function is activated according to the number of reserved balls. In other words, when the number of reserved balls for the special symbol is "3" or "4", a variation pattern with a shorter variation time is selected compared to when the number of reserved balls for the special symbol is "0" to "2".

Furthermore, in step S1301, if it is determined that the game state is not in a non-time-shortened state (NO in S1301), that is, if it is determined that the game state is in a time-shortened state, as shown in FIG. 23, if it is in a high-probability state (YES in S1311), a special chart variation pattern is selected (S1312) according to the special chart variation pattern determination table for the high-probability time-shortened state shown in FIG. 14 (A). On the other hand, if it is not in a high-probability state (NO in S1311), a special chart variation pattern is selected (S1313) according to the special chart variation pattern determination table for the low-probability time-shortened state shown in FIG. 14 (B).

When selecting a variation pattern in the time-saving state, the process is the same as in the non-time-saving state, except that the special chart variation pattern determination table to be referenced is the table corresponding to the high-probability time-saving state or the low-probability time-saving state (see Figures 14 (A)-(B)). In the time-saving state, the lottery mainly involves drawing special chart 2.

In the special chart fluctuation pattern determination table during the time-saving state (see Figures 14 (A) and (B)), the function of shortening fluctuation according to the number of reserved balls when there is no reach and a miss works when the number of reserved balls is between "2" and "4". In other words, shortening fluctuation is more likely to be selected than during the non-time-saving state. Also, the probability of a fluctuation pattern with a long fluctuation time being selected when a jackpot is won is lower than during the non-time-saving state. In other words, a fluctuation pattern with a short fluctuation time is more likely to be selected than during the non-time-saving state. In other words, the fluctuation pattern determination table during the time-saving state is a table in which the fluctuation time is shorter than the fluctuation pattern determination table during the non-time-saving state.

Also, in the low-probability time-saving state, as shown in Figure 14 (B), if a special miss (miss symbol D, miss symbol B) is drawn, special symbol variation pattern P58 or P28 is selected if the time-saving state is a jackpot trigger or special miss trigger, and special symbol variation pattern P59 or P29 is selected if the time-saving state is a ceiling-trigger trigger. If special symbol variation pattern P58 or P28 is selected, a new time-saving state is set, so an SP reach is executed, which results in a failure effect (a loss effect), and then a time-saving transition effect is executed. On the other hand, if special symbol variation pattern P59 or P29 is selected, the ceiling-trigger time-saving state continues, so an SP reach is executed, which results in a failure effect, but no time-saving transition effect is executed afterwards. In other words, in the ceiling-trigger time-saving state, a special miss essentially functions as a normal miss.

Furthermore, in the high probability time-saving state, as shown in Figure 14 (A), even if a special miss (missing symbol D, missing symbol B) is drawn, the special symbol variation pattern is selected in the same way as when a normal miss (missing symbol C, missing symbol A) is drawn. In other words, in the high probability state, a special miss essentially functions as a normal miss.

After selecting a variation pattern as described above, the selected variation pattern is set (S1320) as shown in Figure 22, and this process ends. Information about the variation pattern set in step S1320 is included in the variation start command set in step S1006 or S1012 in the special pattern standby process (S902).

[Special Symbol Fluctuating Process] As shown in Figure 24, the special symbol fluctuating process (S904) first determines whether the special symbol fluctuation time (fluctuating time determined according to the fluctuation pattern selected in step S1003 or S1009; see Figures 13 and 14) has elapsed (S1501). If it has not elapsed (NO in S1501), this process immediately ends. This allows the display of the fluctuating special symbol to continue.

On the other hand, if the fluctuation time has elapsed (YES in S1501), a fluctuation stop command is set (S1502) and the special operation status is set to "3" (S1503). Then, other processing is performed (S1504), such as stopping the special symbol fluctuation display at a symbol (jackpot symbol or losing symbol) corresponding to the set special symbol stop symbol data (see Figures 7(B)-(C)), and this processing ends.

[Special Symbol Determination Process] As shown in Figure 25, the special symbol determination process (S906) first determines whether the special symbol stop time (see Figures 13 and 14) has elapsed (S1601). If it has not elapsed (NO in S1601), this process immediately ends. On the other hand, if the stop time has elapsed (YES in S1601), the game status management process described below is performed (S1602).

Next, it is determined whether the jackpot flag is ON (S1603). If the jackpot flag is ON (YES in S1603), the special action status is set to "4" (S1604). The game control microcomputer 101 then performs the game status reset process described below (S1605) and proceeds to step S1606.

In step S1606, the game control microcomputer 101 clears the value of the ceiling counter to 0. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment controls to enter a time-saving state (ceiling-reach trigger time-saving state) without going through a jackpot game when the number of special symbol changes after a jackpot game, excluding high-probability states, reaches a predetermined number (ceiling number of times, 300 in this embodiment). The ceiling counter is set to "300" at the end of a jackpot game, and is decremented by 1 each time a special symbol change occurs, except in the case of a high-probability state. Step S1606 is a process of clearing the value of this ceiling counter to 0 at the start of a jackpot game.

Following step S1606, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a jackpot opening command to start the jackpot game (S1607), and starts the opening of the jackpot game (S1608). Following step S1608, the game control microcomputer 101 sets an opening pattern (see FIG. 8 for details) corresponding to the type of jackpot symbol that has been won (S1609). At this time, the value of the jackpot opening counter, which counts the number of times the jackpot opening has been opened during the special game, is set to a value corresponding to the type of jackpot symbol that has been won. Note that the setting of the opening pattern (setting of data corresponding to the opening pattern) may be performed for each round.

On the other hand, if the jackpot flag is not ON in step S1603 (NO in S1603), the jackpot game will not start, so the special action status is set to "1" (S1610) and this process ends.

[Game Status Management Processing] As shown in Figure 26, the game status management processing (S1602) first determines whether the probability variable flag is ON (S1701). If it is not ON, proceed to step S1705. If it is ON, the value of the probability variable counter, which counts the number of special pattern variations executed during the high probability state, is decremented by 1 (S1702), and a determination is made as to whether the value of the probability variable counter is "0" (S1703). If it is not "0," proceed to step S1705. If it is "0," the probability variable flag is turned OFF (S1704-1), the probability variable end flag is turned ON (S1704-2), and proceed to step S1705.

In step S1705, the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether the time-saving flag is ON. If the time-saving flag is not ON, the process proceeds to step S1709. If the time-saving flag is ON, the process decrements the value of the time-saving counter, which counts the number of special chart variations executed during the time-saving state, by 1 (S1706), and determines whether the value of the time-saving counter is "0" (S1707). If the value is not "0," the process proceeds to step S1709. If the value is "0," the process turns the time-saving flag OFF (S1708), and the process proceeds to step S1709.

In step S1709, the game control microcomputer 101 performs a game status flag update process. In the game status flag update process (S1709), the value of the game status flag is set to a value corresponding to the current game status. As shown in the table in FIG. 26, the value of the game status flag is set to "1" if the game is in a low-probability, non-time-saving state, and to "2" if the game is in a high-probability, time-saving state. Furthermore, the value of the game status flag is set to "3" if the game is in a low-probability, jackpot-triggered time-saving state (also referred to as low-probability, time-saving state A), to "4" if the game is in a low-probability, ceiling-reaching, time-saving state (also referred to as low-probability, time-saving state B), and to "5" if the game is in a low-probability, special miss-triggered time-saving state (also referred to as low-probability, time-saving state C). In this game status flag update process (S1709), if the probability variable flag was turned OFF in step S1704-1 or the time-saving flag was turned OFF in step S1708, the value of the game status flag is set to "1", which corresponds to a low probability non-time-saving state.

The game control microcomputer 101 then performs the special miss processing (S1710) and ceiling processing (S1720) described below, and proceeds to step S1730. In step S1730, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a game status designation command containing game status flag information (i.e., information about the current game status) in the output buffer of the game RAM 104. When this command is output, the performance control board 120 is notified of information about the current game status.

[Special Miss Processing] As shown in Figure 27, in the special miss processing (S1710), the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether the high probability flag is OFF (S1711). If the high probability flag is not OFF, this processing ends. However, if the high probability flag is OFF, it then determines whether the ceiling time reduction (ceiling-reaching trigger time reduction state) is in progress, i.e., whether the value of the game state flag is "4" (S1712). If the ceiling time reduction is in progress, this processing ends. If the ceiling time reduction is not in progress, it then determines whether the special symbol displayed as stopped is a special miss (i.e., miss symbol B or miss symbol D) (S1713). If it is not a special miss, this process ends; if it is a special miss, the time-saving flag is turned ON (S1714), the number of time-saving times corresponding to the current game state (see Figure 9) is set in the time-saving counter (S1715), the game state flag is updated (S1716), and this process ends.

In this game status flag update process (S1716), the time-saving flag has just been turned ON based on a special miss, so the value of the game status flag is set to "5," which corresponds to the special miss-triggered time-saving state (low-probability time-saving state C). This controls the game to the special miss-triggered time-saving state. The special miss-triggered time-saving state ends when one of the following conditions is met: the special chart changes a specified maximum number of times (time-saving count), the next jackpot game is played, or the ceiling is reached. In this way, in this form, the game may be controlled to the time-saving state even when a miss occurs.

In this version, the time-saving state setting is updated based on a special miss only when the game is in a low-probability state and not in a ceiling-triggering time-saving state; that is, when the game is in a non-time-saving state, a jackpot-triggering time-saving state, or a special miss-triggering time-saving state (YES in step S1711 and NO in step S1712). In other words, even if a special miss occurs during a high-probability state or a ceiling-triggering time-saving state, the game state setting will not be changed.

In this embodiment, the game status management process (S1602) performs processing (steps S1705-S1709) regarding whether to terminate the time-saving state, and then performs processing (step S1710) regarding whether to control to the time-saving state based on a special miss. Therefore, for example, if a special miss is displayed as a stop during the final change of the ceiling-triggering time-saving state, the processing of steps S1705-S1709 will transition from the ceiling-triggering time-saving state to a non-time-saving state, and the processing of step S1710 will transition from the non-time-saving state to a special miss-triggering time-saving state. Note that by configuring the processing of step S1710 to occur before the processing of steps S1705-S1709, it is possible to configure the game not to be controlled to the special miss-triggering time-saving state even if a special miss is drawn during the final change of the ceiling-triggering time-saving state.

[Ceiling Processing] As shown in Figure 28, in ceiling processing (S1720), the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether the probability variable end flag is ON (S1721). If the probability variable end flag is ON, this indicates the end of the final fluctuation in the high probability state, so the ceiling counter value is not updated, the probability variable end flag is turned OFF (S1729), and this processing ends.

In contrast, if the probability change end flag is not ON in step S1721, it is then determined whether the probability change flag is OFF (S1722). If the probability change flag is not OFF, the high probability state is in effect, and this processing ends without updating the ceiling counter value. On the other hand, if the probability change flag is OFF, it is then determined whether the ceiling counter value is greater than 0 (S1723). If the result of this determination is NO, this processing ends immediately, but if the result of this determination is YES, the value of the ceiling counter is decremented by 1 (S1724), and it is determined whether the ceiling counter value is 0 (S1725).

If the value of the ceiling counter is not 0 (NO in S1725), this process is immediately terminated. However, if the value of the ceiling counter is 0 (YES in S1725), the ceiling has been reached, so the time-saving flag is turned ON (S1726), and the number of time-saving times corresponding to the ceiling being reached (500 in this embodiment) is set in the time-saving counter (S1727), and the game status flag update process (S1728) is performed. In this game status flag update process (S1728), since the time-saving flag has just been turned ON based on the ceiling being reached, the value of the game status flag is set to "4," which corresponds to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state (low-probability time-saving state B). This controls the number of time-saving times to 500, which is the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state. Note that this ceiling process is performed not only during non-time-saving states, but also during time-saving states. Therefore, if the value of the ceiling counter is decremented by 1 to 0 during the jackpot trigger time-saving state or the special miss trigger time-saving state, the state will change from the jackpot trigger time-saving state or the special miss trigger time-saving state to the ceiling reach trigger time-saving state.

[Game Status Reset Processing] As shown in Figure 29, in the game status reset processing (S1605), the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether the probability variable flag is ON (S1801), and if it is ON, turns the probability variable flag OFF (S1802). It also determines whether the time-saving flag is ON (S1803), and if it is ON, turns the time-saving flag OFF (S1804). In other words, during the execution of a jackpot game, the game is controlled to a normal probability state (low probability state) and a non-time-saving state. Then, the value of the probability variable counter is reset to "0" (S1805), and the value of the time-saving counter is reset to "0" (S1806), and this processing ends.

[Special Electric Device Processing 1 (Jackpot Game)] Special Electric Device Processing 1 is a process for executing a jackpot game. As shown in FIG. 30, Special Electric Device Processing 1 (S907) first determines whether the jackpot end flag is ON (S2001). The jackpot end flag is a flag that indicates that all of the big prize winning devices 14D have been opened in a winning jackpot game.

If the jackpot end flag is not ON (NO in S2001), it is determined whether the large prize opening 14 is currently open (i.e., whether the large prize device 14D is currently open) (S2002). If it is not currently open (NO in S2002), it is determined whether the time has come to open the large prize opening 14, i.e., whether the opening time for the jackpot has elapsed and it is time to start opening the large prize opening 14, or whether the interval time between openings has elapsed and it is time to start the next opening (S2003).

If the determination result in step S2003 is NO, the process ends. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S2003 is YES, the large prize opening 14 is opened according to the set opening pattern (S2004).

If the special prize opening 14 is open in step S2002 (YES in S2002), it is determined whether the number of prizes won into the special prize opening 14 in that unit open game has reached the specified maximum number of prizes (10 in this embodiment) (S2005). If the specified number of prizes has not been reached (NO in S2005), it is determined whether it is time to close the special prize opening 14 (i.e., whether the specified opening time (see Figure 8) has passed since the special prize opening 14 was opened) (S2006). If the opening time for the special prize opening 14 has not passed (NO in S2006), this process ends.

On the other hand, if the specified number of winnings has been reached (YES in S2005) or if the opening time of the large prize opening 14 has elapsed (YES in S2006), i.e., if either of the two opening termination conditions is met, the large prize opening 14 is closed (blocked) (S2007). Then, the value of the large prize opening counter is decremented by 1 (S2008), and it is determined whether the value of the large prize opening counter is "0" (S2009). If it is not "0" (NO in S2009), the process ends and the next opening begins.

On the other hand, if the value is "0" (YES in S2009), the jackpot ending command is set to end the jackpot game (S2010), and the jackpot ending is started (S2011). Then, the jackpot end flag is set and processing ends (S2012).

Also, if the jackpot end flag is ON in step S2001 (YES in S2001), all openings of the jackpot winning slots 14 during the jackpot game have been completed, so it is determined whether the jackpot ending time has elapsed (S2013). If the ending time has not elapsed (NO in S2013), the process ends. On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (YES in S2013), the jackpot end flag is turned OFF (S2014) and the jackpot flag is turned OFF (S2015). Then, after setting the special operation status to "1" (S2016), the game status setting process (S2017) described below is performed, and the process ends.

[Game Status Setting Process] As shown in FIG. 31, the game status setting process (S2017) first determines whether the symbol that triggered the execution of the current jackpot game (jackpot symbol) is a symbol that triggers control to the time-shortened state (see FIG. 8) (S2101). If the result of this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S2104. If the result of this determination is YES, the time-shortened flag is turned ON (S2102), and the number of time-shortened periods (see FIG. 8) corresponding to the type of jackpot symbol and the game status at the time of the win is set in the time-shortened counter (S2103), and the process proceeds to step S2104. By executing steps S2102 and S2103, the game status after the current jackpot game becomes the time-shortened state.

In step S2104, it is determined whether the jackpot symbol that triggered the execution of this jackpot game is a symbol that triggers control to a high probability state (see Figure 8). If the result of this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S2107. However, if the result of this determination is YES, the probability change flag is turned ON (S2105), and the probability change count (i.e., "160") is set in the probability change counter (S2106), and the process proceeds to step S2107.

In step S2107, the game control microcomputer 101 performs a game status flag update process (S2107). In the game status flag update process (S2107), the value of the game status flag is set to a value corresponding to the current game status. Specifically, in this game status flag update process (S2107), if the time-saving flag is ON and the probability variable flag is OFF, the game is in a low-probability state and a jackpot-triggering time-saving state (low-probability time-saving state A), so the value of the game status flag is set to "3." If both the time-saving flag and the probability variable flag are ON, the game is in a high-probability state and a jackpot-triggering time-saving state, so the value of the game status flag is set to "2" (see the table in Figure 26).

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a game state designation command containing game state flag information (i.e., information about the current game state) in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 (S2108). Note that the game state designation command also contains information about the number of time-saving cycles that have been set. By outputting this command, information about the current game state is notified to the presentation control board 120. The presentation control board 120 then controls the presentation mode according to the current game state.

Then, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the ceiling counter value to "300" (S2109). This process then ends.

5. Operation of the performance control microcomputer 121 Next, the operation of the performance control microcomputer 121 will be described with reference to Figures 32 to 35. Note that counters, timers, flags, buffers, etc. that appear in the description of the operation of the performance control microcomputer 121 are provided in the performance RAM 124.

[Sub-control main processing] When the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is powered on, the effect control microcomputer 121 reads and executes the sub-control main processing program shown in Figure 32 from the effect ROM 123. As shown in the figure, the sub-control main processing first performs power-on processing in response to power-on (S4001). The power-on processing includes, for example, setting the effect CPU 122, SIO, PIO, CTC (circuit for managing interrupt time), etc.

Next, interrupts are prohibited (S4002), and random number update processing is executed (S4003). In the random number update processing (S4003), the values of various effect determination random number counters used to make judgments regarding various effects are updated. As an example, the method for updating the effect determination random number counters for various effects can be the same as the random number update processing performed by the game control board 100 described above. When updating, the random number value may be incremented by 2 rather than by 1. This is also the case in the random number update processing performed by the game control board 100 described above.

Once the random number update process is completed, a command transmission process is executed (S4004). In the command transmission process (S4004), various commands stored in the output buffer in the performance RAM 124 of the performance control board 120 are transmitted to the image control board 140. Upon receiving the command, the image control board 140 displays an image on the display screen 50a (display unit) in accordance with the received command (performing various performances using images). In addition to the various performances performed by the image control board 140, the performance control board 120 also outputs audio from the speaker 610 via the audio control board 161 (performing various sound performances using audio), illuminates the board lamp 54 and frame lamp 212 via the sub-drive board 162 (performing various light-emitting performances using illumination), and operates the board movable body 55k (performing various movable body performances using movement). In this way, various effects (variation effects, hold effects, movable object effects, operation effects, pre-reading effects, other preview effects, opening effects associated with special games, open game effects, ending effects, customer waiting effects, control of effect modes, etc.) are realized.

The performance control microcomputer 121 then enables interrupts (S4005). Thereafter, steps S4002 to S4005 are looped. While interrupts are enabled, the receive interrupt process (S4010), the 1 ms timer interrupt process (S4011), and the 10 ms timer interrupt process (S4012) can be executed.

The receive interrupt process (S4010) is executed each time a command sent from the game control board 100 is input to the presentation control microcomputer 121. In the receive interrupt process (S4010), the presentation control microcomputer 121 stores the various commands sent and received by the game control board 100's output process (S101) in the receive buffer of the presentation RAM 124. This receive interrupt process is executed with priority over other interrupt processes (S4011, S4012).

[1 ms timer interrupt processing] The 1 ms timer interrupt processing (S4011) is executed each time an interrupt pulse with a 1 ms period is input to the performance control board 120. As shown in Figure 33, the 1 ms timer interrupt processing (S4011) sequentially performs input processing (S4101), light emission data output processing (S4102), movable body control processing (S4103), and watchdog timer processing (S4104).

The input process detects operations on player-operable control elements such as the effect button detection sensor 40a and the select button detection sensor 42a, and sets commands and creates effect data based on the detection results. The light-emission data output process outputs light-emission data (lamp data) to the sub-drive board 162 to illuminate lamps such as the frame lamp 212 and the board lamp 54 at timings consistent with image effects, etc., based on the effect data created in the input process and the effect data creation process described below. In other words, the effect control microcomputer 121 illuminates the frame lamp 212, the board lamp 54, etc. in a predetermined light-emission pattern in accordance with the light-emission data. The movable body control process outputs drive data to perform movable body effects that operate movable bodies such as the board movable body 55k at predetermined timings based on the effect data created in the input process and the effect data creation process described below. In other words, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs movable body effects that operate the board movable body 55k in a predetermined operating pattern in accordance with the drive data. The watchdog timer process resets the watchdog timer.

[10 ms timer interrupt processing] The 10 ms timer interrupt processing (S4012) is executed each time an interrupt pulse with a 10 ms period is input to the performance control board 120. As shown in Figure 34, the 10 ms timer interrupt processing (S4012) sequentially performs the received command analysis processing (S4201), performance timer update processing (S4202), audio control processing (S4203), and performance data creation processing (S4204), which will be described later.

In the received command analysis process, the command stored in the receive buffer of the performance RAM 124 by the receive interrupt process (S4010) is analyzed, and processing according to the command (for example, selecting a performance, setting a performance mode, setting a command, etc.) is performed. In the performance timer update process, the timer used to measure the time related to each performance is updated. For example, in the performance timer update process, the start and end timings of the effective operation periods of operation units such as the performance button 40k and the select button 42k are measured. In the audio control process, audio data (data that controls the audio output from the speaker 610) is created and output to the audio control board 161 based on the results of the input process and received command analysis process. In the performance data creation process, performance data is created based on the results of the received command analysis process.

Here, an example of the processing when the presentation control microcomputer 121 receives a command from the game control microcomputer 101 will be described. The command received by the presentation control microcomputer 121 is a fluctuation start command (special chart 1 fluctuation start command or special chart 2 fluctuation start command). If the presentation control microcomputer 121 determines in the received command analysis process (S4201) that it has received a fluctuation start command, it performs the processing upon receiving the fluctuation start command by selecting a fluctuation presentation pattern (sub-fluctuation pattern) based on the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the command, setting information for that sub-fluctuation pattern, and setting a fluctuation presentation start command including information for that sub-fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. For example, if the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the fluctuation start command is an SP fluctuation (a fluctuation pattern associated with an SP reach), it selects a sub-fluctuation pattern that performs an SP reach, and sets a fluctuation presentation start command corresponding to that sub-fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. After that, various processes (command transmission process (S4004), light emission data output process (S4102), movable body control process (S4103), sound control process (S4203), etc.) are executed, thereby realizing a variation effect corresponding to the selected sub-variation pattern. Note that the processing flow for realizing such effects is basically the same for other effects such as effects associated with special games, customer waiting effects, pre-reading effects, so-called advance notice effects associated with the relevant variation, and control of the effect mode.

[Received Command Analysis Processing] Next, the received command analysis processing (S4201) will be described in detail with reference to Figure 35. In the received command analysis processing (S4201), as shown in Figure 35, the presentation control microcomputer 121 first determines whether a game status designation command has been received (S4401), and if so, performs the presentation mode update processing (S4402). In the presentation mode update processing (S4402), the game status designation command is analyzed, a presentation mode is selected based on the analysis results, and a presentation mode setting command for setting the presentation mode corresponding to the selection is set in the output buffer of the presentation RAM 124.

Here, as shown in the table in FIG. 35, in the presentation mode update process, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the presentation mode to daytime presentation mode (normal presentation mode) if the game state indicated by the game state designation command is a "low-probability non-time-saving state." Furthermore, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the presentation mode to ultra-daytime presentation mode (high-probability presentation mode) if the game state indicated by the game state designation command is a "low-probability time-saving state" with 50 time-saving cycles (a jackpot-triggered time-saving state or a special miss-triggered time-saving state), the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the presentation mode to nighttime presentation mode (first time-saving presentation mode). Furthermore, the presentation control microcomputer 121 sets the presentation mode to ultra-nighttime presentation mode (second time-saving presentation mode) if the game state indicated by the game state designation command is a "low-probability time-saving state" with 300 time-saving cycles (a jackpot-triggered time-saving state or a special miss-triggered time-saving state). Furthermore, if the game state indicated by the game state designation command is a "low probability time-saving state" (a time-saving state triggered by reaching the ceiling) with 500 time-saving cycles, the effect control microcomputer 121 sets the game to the empty effect mode (ceiling time-saving effect mode). Each effect mode will be explained in detail later.

Next, the presentation control microcomputer 121 determines whether a fluctuation start command has been received from the game control board 100 (S4403), and if so, performs the fluctuation presentation start process (S4404). In the fluctuation presentation start process (S4404), the fluctuation presentation start command is analyzed and a fluctuation presentation pattern (content) is selected based on the analysis results. Then, a fluctuation presentation start command for starting the fluctuation presentation with the selected fluctuation presentation pattern is set in the output buffer of the presentation RAM 124. The content of the fluctuation presentation will be explained in detail later.

Next, the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether a variation stop command has been received from the game control board 100 (S4405), and if so, performs a variation effect end process (S4406). In the variation effect end process (S4406), the variation stop command is analyzed, and based on the analysis results, a variation effect end command for definitively stopping and displaying the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 is set in the output buffer of the effect RAM 124.

Next, the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether an opening command has been received from the game control board 100 (S4407), and if so, performs opening effect selection processing (S4408). In the opening effect selection processing (S4408), the opening command is analyzed and, based on the analysis results, the pattern (content) of the opening effect to be executed during the opening of the special game is selected. Then, an opening effect start command for starting the opening effect with the selected opening effect pattern is set in the output buffer of the effect RAM 124.

Next, the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether an ending command has been received from the game control board 100 (S4409), and if so, performs the ending effect selection process (S4410). In the ending effect selection process (S4410), the ending command is analyzed and, based on the analysis results, the pattern (content) of the ending effect to be executed during the ending of the jackpot game is selected. Then, an ending effect start command to start the ending effect using the selected ending effect pattern is set in the output buffer of the effect RAM 124.

Next, as other processing (S4411), processing based on received commands other than the above commands is performed, and the received command analysis processing is completed.

6. Game Flow in This Form Next, the game flow in this form of pachinko game machine PY1 will be explained based on Figure 36. As shown in Figure 36, first, in the low probability non-time-saving state (normal game state), the game progresses by hitting left and aiming for a jackpot based on the lottery of special chart 1. In addition, in the low probability non-time-saving state, it is controlled to the daytime presentation mode (normal presentation mode).

If jackpot pattern A (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn on special chart 1 in the low-probability non-time-saving state, after a 4-round jackpot game, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state) with 300 time-saving cycles (see Figure 8). Furthermore, if a special miss (miss pattern B) is drawn, the game will not be played and the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (special miss-triggered time-saving state) with 300 time-saving cycles (see Figure 9). The ceiling number of cycles for pachinko gaming machine PY1 is 300. Therefore, transitioning to a low-probability time-saving state with 300 time-saving cycles means that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached. Furthermore, in the low-probability time-saving state with 300 time-saving cycles (special miss-triggered time-saving state), the game will be controlled to the super night mode (second time-saving mode). This super night mode functions as an effect that suggests that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached.

In the time-saving mode, play progresses by hitting the right button, aiming to win a jackpot based on the lottery on Special Chart 2. If the ceiling is reached without a jackpot being won in the jackpot-triggered time-saving mode or the special miss-triggered time-saving mode, the machine will transition to a low-probability time-saving mode with 500 time-saving cycles (ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving mode). In the low-probability time-saving mode with 500 time-saving cycles (ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving mode), the machine will be controlled to an empty effect mode (ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving mode). This empty effect mode functions as an effect that suggests the machine is in the ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving mode.

In this mode, if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is selected based on the lottery on Special Chart 2 during the ceiling-triggered time-saving state based on reaching the ceiling, after 10 rounds of jackpot play, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state) with 300 time-saving cycles (see Figure 8). Therefore, it is confirmed that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached again.

In contrast, if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn based on the special pattern 2 while in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state before reaching the ceiling, after 10 rounds of jackpot play, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state) with 50 time-saving cycles (see Figure 8). Furthermore, if a special miss is drawn, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (special miss trigger time-saving state) with 50 time-saving cycles without a jackpot play being executed (see Figure 9). Therefore, in these cases, if 50 special pattern changes occur without a jackpot or special miss (time-saving cycle exhausted), the game will return to the low-probability non-time-saving state. Furthermore, in a low-probability time-saving state with 50 time-saving cycles (jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state), the game will be controlled to the night mode (first time-saving mode). This night mode functions as a hint that the time-saving mode may not continue until the ceiling is reached.

In this way, in this mode, if you hit jackpot symbol A (non-probability variable symbol) or a special miss (miss symbol B) in a low-probability non-time-saving state and transition to a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state), whether or not the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached will depend on whether you hit jackpot symbol C (non-probability variable symbol) or a special miss during that jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state, or whether you hit jackpot symbol C (non-probability variable symbol) after reaching the ceiling and transitioning to the ceiling-reaching time-saving state. Therefore, this innovative gameplay can increase the enjoyment of the game.

In addition, in this mode, if a low-probability non-time-saving state transitions to a low-probability time-saving state with 300 time-saving cycles based on a special miss, even if there are remaining time-saving cycles, once the ceiling is reached, the game will transition from the special miss-triggered time-saving state to a ceiling-reaching time-saving state with 500 time-saving cycles. Therefore, it is easier to stay in the ceiling-reaching time-saving state compared to a configuration in which the ceiling-reaching time-saving state continues without setting the ceiling-reaching time-saving state even if the ceiling is reached during the special miss-triggered time-saving state. Also, in this mode, even if a special miss (miss symbol D) is drawn based on the drawing of special symbol 2 during the ceiling-reaching time-saving state, the special miss-triggered time-saving state is not set, and the ceiling-reaching time-saving state continues. Therefore, it is easier to stay in the ceiling-reaching time-saving state compared to a configuration in which the special miss-triggered time-saving state transitions to the special miss-triggered time-saving state when a special miss is drawn during the ceiling-reaching time-saving state. In this form, winning jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) based on the lottery on special chart 2 in the ceiling-triggered time-saving state is more advantageous to the player in terms of the number of time-saving turns than winning jackpot pattern C in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state or the special miss-triggered time-saving state. Therefore, a configuration in which the ceiling-triggered time-saving state takes priority over the special miss-triggered time-saving state can be said to be advantageous to the player and contributes to increasing interest in the game.

When the number of time-saving turns is controlled to 50 based on a jackpot symbol C or a special miss, if a jackpot symbol C or a special miss is drawn, the low-probability time-saving turn state (jackpot-triggered time-saving turn state or special miss-triggered time-saving turn state) will be set again with the number of time-saving turns set to 50. Also, if the special symbol changes 300 times without drawing a jackpot or special miss in the low-probability non-time-saving turn state, the ceiling will be reached and the low-probability time-saving turn state will change to 500 times (ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving turn state). Also, if the special symbol changes 500 times without winning a jackpot in the ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving turn state, the low-probability non-time-saving turn state will change.

In addition, if jackpot pattern B (a probability variable pattern that triggers control to a high probability state) is won in the lottery for special chart 1 in a low probability non-time-saving state, or if jackpot pattern D (a probability variable pattern) is won in the lottery for special chart 2 in a low probability time-saving state, the state will be controlled to a high probability time-saving state upon the end of the jackpot game (see Figure 8). In a high probability state, the number of probability variable times and the number of time-saving times are both set to 160. The upper limit on the number of times that special charts can be changed in a high probability time-saving state is called the ST number. In this form, the ST number is 160. In a high probability time-saving state where the ST number is 160, the state will be controlled to the super daytime presentation mode (high probability presentation mode). This super daytime presentation mode functions as a presentation that suggests a high probability state.

In the high-probability time-saving state, play progresses by hitting the right button, aiming to win the jackpot based on the drawing on special chart 2. If jackpot pattern D (probability variable pattern) is drawn based on the drawing on special chart 2 while in the high-probability time-saving state, the machine will be controlled again to the high-probability time-saving state with 160 ST cycles upon the end of the jackpot play. In contrast, if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn based on the drawing on special chart 2 while in the high-probability time-saving state, since the high-probability time-saving state is also a jackpot-triggering time-saving state, the machine will be controlled to the low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggering time-saving state) with 50 time-saving cycles upon the end of the jackpot play. In this case, the continuation of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached is not guaranteed.

In addition, if a special miss (missing symbol D) is drawn based on the special symbol 2 lottery during the high probability time-saving state, the game will not transition to the special miss trigger time-saving state, but will continue in the high probability time-saving state. Also, if the special symbol changes 160 times during the high probability time-saving state without a jackpot being won, the game will transition to the low probability non-time-saving state.

7. Presentation Examples in This Form 7-1. Presentation Mode Next, presentation examples in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this form will be described with reference to Figures 37 to 41. First, the presentation mode will be described. The presentation mode is a form of presentation using the image display device 50, speaker 610, board lamp 54, frame lamp 212, etc., and when the presentation mode is different, for example, the characters, items, background images, etc. displayed on the image display device 50 will be different, and variable presentations using the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, EZ3 will also be executed in a form corresponding to the presentation mode.

The presentation modes of this form include a day presentation mode (also called a normal presentation mode) in which a normal daytime background image as shown in Figure 37(A) is displayed, an ultra day presentation mode (also called a high probability presentation mode) in which a special daytime background image as shown in Figure 37(B) is displayed (a background image combining a normal daytime background image with a flame effect image), a night presentation mode (also called a first time-saving presentation mode) in which a normal nighttime background image as shown in Figure 37(C) is displayed, an ultra night presentation mode (also called a second time-saving presentation mode) in which a special nighttime background image as shown in Figure 37(D) is displayed (a background image combining a normal nighttime background image with an image of stars), and a sky presentation mode (also called a ceiling time-saving presentation mode) in which a sky background image as shown in Figure 37(E) is displayed.

Daytime presentation mode (Figure 37 (A)) is a presentation mode that is set when the game is in a low-probability, non-time-saving state. In other words, it is a presentation mode that is set when the game is in a low-probability, non-time-saving state and the game progresses mainly through the drawing of Special Chart 1.

The super-daytime presentation mode (Figure 37 (B)) is a presentation mode that is set when the high-probability time-saving state is active. In other words, it is a presentation mode that is set when the high-probability time-saving state is active and gameplay is primarily based on the lottery for Special Chart 2. In the time-saving state, gameplay progresses with the aim of winning the second starting slot 12 by hitting with the right hand. Therefore, in the super-daytime presentation mode, the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays a right-hit notification image RI in the upper right corner of the display screen 50a, informing players that they should play with a right hand. Also, in the super-daytime presentation mode, to indicate when the presentation mode will end, the presentation control microcomputer 121 displays a remaining number of times indicator ZI, which indicates the remaining number of times the presentation mode will continue, in the lower right corner of the display screen 50a. The remaining number of times indicator ZI is also referred to as the end-time indication indicator. The remaining number of times indicator ZI in the super-daytime presentation mode also functions as an indicator indicating the remaining number of times the presentation mode will continue.

The night presentation mode (Fig. 37(C)) is a presentation mode that is set when the game is in a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state or special miss-triggered time-saving state) with 50 time-saving cycles. In other words, it is a presentation mode that is set when the continuation of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached is not confirmed, and gameplay progresses primarily through the lottery for special chart 2. In the night presentation mode, as in the super daytime presentation mode, the right-hit notification image RI and remaining number of cycles display ZI are displayed on the display screen 50a. The remaining number of cycles display ZI in the night presentation mode functions as an indication of when the night presentation mode will end, and an indication of the remaining number of cycles in the low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state or special miss-triggered time-saving state).

Super Night Presentation Mode (Fig. 37 (D)) is a presentation mode that is set when the game is in a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state or special miss-triggered time-saving state) with 300 time-saving cycles. In other words, it is a presentation mode that is set when the continuation of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached is confirmed, and gameplay progresses primarily through the lottery of Special Chart 2. In Super Night Presentation Mode, as in Night Presentation Mode, the right-hit notification image RI and remaining number of cycles display ZI are displayed on the display screen 50a. In Super Night Presentation Mode, the remaining number of cycles display ZI functions as an indication of when the Super Night Presentation Mode will end, and an indication of the remaining number of cycles in the low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state or special miss-triggered time-saving state).

The empty presentation mode (Figure 37 (E)) is a presentation mode that is set when the game is in a low-probability time-saving state (ceiling-triggered time-saving state) where the number of time-saving times is 500. In other words, it is a presentation mode that is set when the game is in a ceiling-triggered time-saving state and gameplay is mainly based on the lottery for special chart 2. In the empty presentation mode, as in the super night presentation mode, the right-hit notification image RI and remaining number of times display ZI are displayed on the display screen 50a. The remaining number of times display ZI in the empty presentation mode functions as an indication of when the empty presentation mode will end and an indication of the remaining number of fluctuations in the low-probability time-saving state (ceiling-triggered time-saving state).

7-2. Variable Presentation Next, the variable presentation will be explained. When the pachinko gaming machine PY1 starts displaying the variable presentation of the special symbol, it executes the variable presentation based on the variable presentation pattern related to the variable presentation of the special symbol and the results of the special symbol lottery (the result of the jackpot determination, the result of the symbol type determination, the result of the reach determination, and the result of the special symbol variable pattern determination). In the variable presentation, the display screen 50a displays the variable presentation of the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 superimposed on a predetermined background image. In the variable presentation of the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3, the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 stop after they have changed. In other words, after the variable presentation of the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 is performed over the period of the special symbol change, the variation stops, and the presentation symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed as stopped. Then, the result of the special symbol lottery is announced by the stopped display of the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3.

7-2-1. Effect Symbol Display Area As shown in FIG. 38(A), the display screen 50a of the image display device 50 is divided horizontally into three approximately equal sections, with a left effect symbol area 50b1, a middle effect symbol area 50b2, and a right effect symbol area 50b3 provided on the left, center, and right sides. The left effect symbol area 50b1 is an area that displays the left effect symbol EZ1 when the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a stopped state during variable effects. Similarly, the middle effect symbol area 50b2 and the right effect symbol area 50b3 are areas that display the middle effect symbol EZ2 and the right effect symbol EZ3.

Also, as shown in Figure 38 (A), a small symbol area 50c is provided in one section (upper left) at the top left of the display screen 50a. Small symbol area 50c is an area that displays the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 while the special symbol is being displayed. Note that while the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 may become hidden during the variable effect, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 never become hidden. In this respect, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 function as symbols that complement the role of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3.

In Figure 38 (A), the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, the right performance pattern area 50b3, and the small pattern area 50c are clearly indicated by dashed double-dashed lines, but this is only to indicate the range of the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, the right performance pattern area 50b3, and the small pattern area 50c, and is not actually displayed. Furthermore, the range of each area can be changed as appropriate.

7-2-2. Normal Variation In the variation effect, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 can first perform a normal variation. The normal variation functions as an effect that suggests that the variation display of the special symbol has started.

When the display of changing special patterns begins, for example, as shown in Figure 38 (A), the left performance pattern EZ1, middle performance pattern EZ2 and right performance pattern EZ3 are displayed frozen on the display screen 50a, and the left small pattern KZ1, middle small pattern KZ2 and right small pattern KZ3 are displayed frozen, and the display of changing special patterns is not being performed and the state is waiting for the display of changing special patterns.As shown in Figure 38 (B), as the display starts, the display of changing performance patterns EZ1, EZ2 and EZ3 begins, and the display of changing small patterns KZ1, KZ2 and KZ3 begins. Then, when the variation pattern of the variation display of this special symbol is, for example, a "normal miss variation" (a variation of a miss without a reach), as shown in FIG. 38 (C-1), the left performance symbol EZ1 and the right performance symbol EZ3 temporarily stop in different stopping patterns, and then, as shown in FIG. 38 (D), the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 stop and display in a stopping pattern suggesting a miss (a so-called spread pattern). At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 also stop and display all at once in a stopping pattern suggesting a miss. On the other hand, when the variation pattern of the variation display of the special symbol is, for example, a variation pattern with a reach, such as an "N miss variation" (a variation of a reach with a miss that is indicated by a normal reach), as shown in FIG. 38 (C-2), the left performance symbol EZ1 and the right performance symbol EZ3 temporarily stop in the same stopping pattern, and a reach is established. At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 continue to change, and a reach effect is performed according to the change pattern. Note that the order and stop pattern of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 can be changed as appropriate.

7-2-3. N Reach (Normal Reach)
The pachinko gaming machine PY1 can perform an N-reach when a reach is achieved during normal variation. The N-reach is a presentation that suggests that the result of the special symbol lottery may be a "jackpot," and functions as a presentation to make the player expect a jackpot.

In an N reach, as shown in Figure 39 (A), the reach-established state is maintained for a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds), and as shown in Figure 39 (B), the rate of change of the middle effect symbol EZ2 gradually slows down. If the change pattern of the special symbol change display is, for example, an "N miss change," then, as shown in Figure 39 (C-1), the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed stopped in a manner suggesting a miss (so-called "variant numbers"). At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a manner suggesting a miss. On the other hand, if the change pattern of the special symbol change display is, for example, an "N jackpot change" (a jackpot change indicating a jackpot win by a normal reach), then, as shown in Figure 39 (C-2), the effect symbols are displayed stopped in a manner suggesting a jackpot (so-called "double numbers"). At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are displayed stopped simultaneously in a manner that suggests a jackpot. Note that the effects of N Reach are not limited to the gradual slowdown of the medium symbol EZ2, and can be changed or added as appropriate.

Furthermore, with regard to the stopping patterns of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that indicate a miss, the spread symbols when a reach is not achieved are referred to as "non-reach spread symbols" or "non-reach miss symbols," and the spread symbols when a reach is achieved are referred to as "reach spread symbols" or "reach miss symbols." The combination of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that make up the non-reach spread symbols (for example, "2, 3, 1" or "5, 8, 6") and the combination of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that make up the reach spread symbols (for example, "2, 1, 2" or "5, 4, 5") are selected by the effect control microcomputer 121. Additionally, the combination of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that make up the stopping pattern (double number) that indicates a jackpot (for example, "2-2-2" or "7-7-7") is selected by the effect control microcomputer 121 based on the type of jackpot symbol that has been won.

The pachinko gaming machine PY1 can perform an SP reach after an N reach. The SP reach is a presentation that suggests that the result of the special symbol lottery is more likely to be a "jackpot" than an N reach, and functions as a presentation to make the player expect a jackpot.

In an SP Reach, after an N Reach, for example, as shown in FIG. 40(A), a background image dedicated to the SP Reach (SP Reach background image G113) is displayed on the display screen 50a, and an image indicating that the SP Reach has begun (SP Reach start title image) G1 is displayed in the center of the display screen 50a. Then, as shown in FIG. 40(B), an SP Reach-specific effect (e.g., a battle effect) is performed. Then, when the final stage of the SP Reach-specific effect is reached, if the variation pattern of the special symbol variation display is, for example, an "SP jackpot variation" (a jackpot variation indicating a jackpot win by an SP Reach), as shown in FIG. 40(C-1), a success effect suggesting a jackpot (e.g., a victory effect in which the main character (one of the allied characters) has won a battle and is standing with his/her arms crossed) is performed on the display screen 50a, and the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a stopped state suggesting a jackpot (so-called double numbers). At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a manner suggesting a jackpot. On the other hand, if the variation pattern of the special symbol variation display is, for example, an "SP miss variation" (a reach-and-miss variation in which a miss is indicated by an SP reach), as shown in FIG. 40 (C-2), a failure effect suggesting a miss (for example, a display of an enemy character standing in a pose of defiance after winning a battle, a defeat effect) is displayed, and the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed stopped in a manner suggesting a miss (so-called barakeme). At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a manner suggesting a miss. Note that the content of the SP reach effect can be changed or added as appropriate. In this form, the effect shown in FIG. 40 is executed as an SP reach regardless of the game state.

7-2-5. Variable effects based on special misses (time-saving misses) Next, we will explain the variable effects when the result of the special symbol lottery is a special miss (miss symbol B, miss symbol D), which triggers control to the time-saving state. In the low-probability non-time-saving state, when the variable pattern indicated by the special symbol 1 variable start command received from the game control microcomputer 101 is "P8" or "P38", the variable effect with SP reach is executed, just as when the variable pattern is "P1", "P4", "P31", or "P34" (see FIG. 13).

In this SP Reach, a failure effect (defeat effect) is executed, as shown in Figure 41 (A). Here, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a normal miss (missing symbol A, missing symbol C), when a failure effect is executed in the SP Reach, the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3, which are temporarily displayed as scattered symbols, are displayed as stopped symbols, and accordingly, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed as stopped symbols (see Figure 40 (C-2)).

In contrast, if the result of the special drawing is a special miss (missing symbol B, missing symbol D), when a failure effect is executed in the SP reach, the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are not definitively displayed, and a revival image G70 is displayed on the display screen 50a (see Figure 41 (B)). Note that in this form, the revival image G70 is an image of a character who is a companion of the main character.

The display of the revival image G70 indicates to the player that they will be transitioning to a time-saving state (a special miss trigger time-saving state). In other words, the effect of displaying the revival image G70 functions as an effect suggesting a transition to a time-saving state, or an effect suggesting that the result of the special drawing is not a normal miss. The effect of displaying the revival image G70 is referred to as a time-saving transition effect. The content of the time-saving transition effect can be changed as appropriate.

Then, as shown in Figure 41 (C), the effect control microcomputer 121 hides the revival image G70 and temporarily displays the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 with a special combination of the medium effect symbol EZ2 as the symbol symbol TZ. In this mode, the symbol symbol TZ is an image containing the letters (with an XX background) of the name of the effect mode (night effect mode or super night effect mode) corresponding to the transition to the time-saving state. This special combination then definitively displays the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 as stopped, and the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 as stopped with the specific combination of "1, 3, and 5" (see Figure 41 (D)). Thus, in this mode, the transition to the time-saving state (special miss-triggered time-saving state) is indicated by the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 being stopped with the special combination, and the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 being stopped with the specific combination. In other words, when the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 stop and appear with special numbers, or when the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 stop and appear with specific numbers, this functions as an indication to the player that they are entering a time-saving state (that they have hit a special miss). Note that the special numbers for the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3, and the specific numbers for the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3, can be changed as appropriate.

Such time-saving transition effects, the stopped display of effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 when a special combination is selected, and the stopped display of small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 when a specific combination is selected are also performed when a special miss occurs during a low-probability state in a time-saving state triggering a jackpot or a time-saving state triggering a special miss. In other words, in this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 121 executes the effects shown in FIGS. 41(A) to (D) even when the special symbol variation patterns "P58" and "P28" shown in FIG. 14(B) are selected. In this case, the effects shown in FIGS. 41(B) to (D) function as effects notifying the player that a new time-saving state will be set based on a special miss.

In addition, if a special miss occurs when the low probability state is in the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state, i.e., when the special chart variation pattern "P59" or "P29" shown in Figure 14 (B) is selected, the presentation control microcomputer 121 will execute a variation presentation accompanied by an SP reach that leads to a failure presentation (defeat presentation) in the same manner as described above (see Figure 41 (A)).

However, even if a special miss (missing symbol D, missing symbol B) is drawn during the ceiling-reaching time-saving state, the game state settings will not be changed. Therefore, in this SP reach, when a failure effect is executed, the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3, which are temporarily displayed as scattered symbols, are displayed as stopped symbols, and accordingly, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed as stopped symbols (see Figure 41 (E)). In other words, it is a low probability state, and a time-saving transition effect is not performed as with a special miss in a non-time-saving state, a jackpot-triggering time-saving state, or a special miss-triggering time-saving state. However, in this case, the stopping pattern of the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 is the specific numbers "1, 3, 5." In other words, in this version, even if the special miss does not function effectively, the stopping pattern of the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 is set to a specific number, allowing the player to recognize that they have drawn a special miss.

8. Effect of the Present Form As explained in detail above, with the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the present form, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol C) after the number of times the special symbol fluctuations have been executed reaches the ceiling number (300 times) and the time-saving state is entered, than to hit the jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol C) or the special losing symbol (losing symbol D) in the time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special losing trigger time-saving state) before the number of times the special symbol fluctuations have been executed reaches the ceiling number (300 times), in that the number of time-saving states in the subsequent time-saving state is set to reduce the number of special symbol fluctuations remaining until the ceiling is reached (see Figures 11 and 36). Therefore, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the present form can provide such new gameplay features and can increase the enjoyment of playing using the time-saving state.

In particular, with this form of pachinko gaming machine PY1, if a jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol C) is drawn after the number of times the special symbol fluctuation has been executed has reached the ceiling number of times (300 times) and the game has been controlled to a ceiling-triggering time-saving state, it is determined that the subsequent time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state) will continue until the next ceiling-triggering time-saving state. However, if a jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol C) or a special loss symbol (loss symbol D) is drawn in a time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special loss trigger time-saving state) before the number of times the special symbol fluctuation has been executed reaches the ceiling number of times (300 times), the subsequent time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special loss trigger time-saving state) will not continue until the next ceiling-triggering time-saving state, providing a new gameplay feature (see Figures 11 and 36). Furthermore, if the time-saving state continues until the next ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state, the time-saving state can essentially be said to continue until the next jackpot game is played, allowing the player to aim for the next jackpot game in a significantly advantageous situation.

Furthermore, with this form of pachinko gaming machine PY1, by first hitting a jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol A) or a special losing symbol (losing symbol B) in a non-time-saving state, the machine is controlled to a ceiling-triggering time-saving state, and then controlled to a time-saving state (jackpot-triggering time-saving state, special losing symbol time-saving state) with the same number of time-saving cycles as when a jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol C) is hit (see Figures 10 and 36). In other words, based on a jackpot or special losing symbol in a non-time-saving state, it is first possible to determine whether the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached. Therefore, this innovative gameplay can increase the enjoyment of the game.

Furthermore, with this form of pachinko gaming machine PY1, even if the number of times the special chart fluctuation has been executed reaches the ceiling number of times (300 times) when in a time-shortened state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state) as well as when in a non-time-shortened state, the machine transitions to a ceiling-reaching time-shortened state (see Figures 26 and 28). This makes it possible to create a gaming machine that is more likely to demonstrate the above-mentioned gameplay characteristics than a configuration that does not transition to the ceiling-reaching time-shortened state during a time-shortened state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state).

Furthermore, with this form of pachinko gaming machine PY1, even if a special losing symbol is drawn during the ceiling-reaching time-saving state, the state will not transition to the special losing trigger time-saving state (see Figures 26 and 27). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the state transitions to the special losing trigger time-saving state even when a special losing symbol is drawn during the ceiling-reaching time-saving state, it is easier to ensure the period of time during which the state is controlled to the ceiling-reaching time-saving state, and it is possible to enhance the significance of the ceiling-reaching time-saving state in the gameplay described above.

Furthermore, with this form of pachinko gaming machine PY1, a jackpot in a time-saving state triggered by the number of variations (ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving state) is more advantageous to the player in terms of the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent time-saving state than a jackpot in a time-saving state triggered by a symbol (jackpot-triggered time-saving state, special miss-triggered time-saving state) (see Figure 8). Therefore, it is possible to enhance the significance of the ceiling-reach-triggered time-saving state, which provides relief to players who were unable to win a jackpot until the ceiling was reached, so that they do not suffer too great a disadvantage.

In the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the first embodiment, the number of times the jackpot trigger time-saving state based on a jackpot during the ceiling-triggering time-saving state is shortened is the same as the ceiling number (300 times). However, the number of times the jackpot trigger time-saving state based on a jackpot during the ceiling-triggering time-saving state does not have to be the same as the ceiling number, as long as it is greater than the number of times the jackpot trigger time-saving state based on a jackpot or special miss during the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state. However, it is desirable that the number of remaining special pattern variations from the end of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached be at least half the ceiling number. This is because it is easier to motivate players to play until the ceiling is reached. Furthermore, if the number of remaining special pattern variations from the end of the jackpot trigger time-saving state based on a jackpot during the ceiling-reach trigger time-saving state until the next ceiling is reached is less than 10, the time-saving state will continue until close to reaching the ceiling, making it possible to achieve an effect almost identical to that of the first embodiment (a configuration in which the time-saving state continues until the next ceiling is reached). Incidentally, if the number of remaining special pattern variations from the end of the time-saving state until the next ceiling is reached is less than 10, it can be said that the number of remaining special pattern variations from the end of the time-saving state until the next ceiling is reached is almost zero.

In addition, in the first embodiment of the pachinko gaming machine PY1, the number of times the time-saving state based on a jackpot or special miss during the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state is shortened is configured so that the remaining special pattern variations from the end of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached are 250. However, the number of times the time-saving state based on a jackpot or special miss during the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state can be changed as appropriate, as long as it is smaller than the number of times the time-saving state based on a jackpot during the ceiling-reaching time-saving state is shortened. However, it is preferable to set the number of times the remaining special pattern variations from the end of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached to a value at least half the number of times the ceiling is reached. This is because it is easy for the player to feel that the ceiling is still a long way off. Additionally, in order to create a difference in the profits earned between a jackpot after transitioning to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state and a jackpot or special miss before transitioning to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state, it is desirable for there to be a difference of 100 or more times in the number of time-saving cycles between the time-saving state based on a jackpot after transitioning to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state and the time-saving state based on a jackpot or special miss before transitioning to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state.

9. Modified Examples Below, modified examples (including a second embodiment and a third embodiment) will be described. In the description of the modified examples, the same components as those in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the above embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again. Of course, the components of the modified examples may be appropriately combined. Furthermore, technical features in the above embodiment and the modified examples below may be appropriately deleted unless they are described as essential in this specification.

Second Embodiment
The pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 42 to 45. In the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the first embodiment, if a non-variable symbol (jackpot symbol C, jackpot symbol A) is hit during the jackpot trigger time-saving state or the special miss trigger time-saving state before the ceiling is reached, or if a special miss (miss symbol D, miss symbol B) is hit, the number of time-saving times is set to 50 times, and it is not determined that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached, but if a non-variable symbol (jackpot symbol C, jackpot symbol A) is hit during the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state based on the ceiling being reached, the number of time-saving times is set to 300 times, and it is determined that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached (see Figures 8 and 9).

In contrast, in the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, as shown in Figures 42 and 43, if a non-variable symbol (jackpot symbol C, jackpot symbol A) is hit during the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state before reaching the ceiling, or if a special miss (miss symbol D, miss symbol B) is hit, the number of time-saving cycles is set to 300 (an example of a first value), and it is determined that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached. On the other hand, if a non-variable symbol (jackpot symbol C, jackpot symbol A) is hit during the ceiling-trigger time-saving state based on reaching the ceiling, the number of time-saving cycles is set to 50 (an example of a second value), and it is not determined that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached.

Specifically, for example, in the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 44 (H), if a jackpot symbol C (non-variable symbol) is drawn based on the lottery of special symbol 2 while in a low-probability state and in a jackpot-triggered time-saving state or a special miss-triggered time-saving state, the machine will transition to a low-probability state and time-saving state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state) upon the end of the jackpot game. The number of time-saving cycles in this jackpot-triggered time-saving state will be 300. If the special symbol changes 300 times without a jackpot being won in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state, the ceiling will be reached, and the machine will transition to a time-saving state with 500 time-saving cycles (ceiling-reached time-saving state). Thus, in the second embodiment, if a jackpot symbol C (non-variable symbol) is drawn while in a jackpot-triggered time-saving state or a special miss-triggered time-saving state, it is determined that the time-saving state will continue from the end of the jackpot game until the ceiling is reached. In other words, after a jackpot game based on jackpot symbol C ends, a 300-time jackpot trigger time-saving state and a 500-time ceiling-reaching time-saving state are executed in succession without any intervening non-time-saving states. This means that the player can essentially continue playing without significantly reducing their ball reserves until the next jackpot is won.

Also, as shown in Figure 44 (I), if a special miss (miss symbol D) is drawn based on the lottery of special symbol 2 while in a low-probability state and in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state, the game will transition to a low-probability state and time-saving state (special miss trigger time-saving state) in response to the stop display of miss symbol D. The number of time-saving cycles in this special miss trigger time-saving state is 300. When the ceiling is reached in the special miss trigger time-saving state, that is, when the cumulative number of special symbol changes from the low-probability time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state) before the special miss trigger time-saving state reaches the ceiling number (300 cycles), the game will transition to a time-saving state with 500 time-saving cycles (ceiling-reached time-saving state) even if there are time-saving cycles remaining in the special miss trigger time-saving state. Thus, in the second embodiment, if a special miss occurs while in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state, the number of time-saving cycles transitions to 300, ensuring that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached.

Also, as shown in Figure 44 (J), if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn based on the special pattern 2 during the ceiling-triggering time-saving state, the game will transition to a low-probability state and time-saving state (jackpot-triggering time-saving state) upon the end of the jackpot game. The number of time-saving cycles in this jackpot-triggering time-saving state is 50. If the special pattern changes 50 times during the jackpot-triggering time-saving state without drawing a jackpot or special miss, the time-saving state will end and the game will transition to a low-probability non-time-saving state. In this way, in the second embodiment, even if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn during the ceiling-triggering time-saving state, the continuation of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached is not confirmed.

In the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 44 (K), even if a special miss (missing symbol D) is drawn based on the lottery of special symbol 2 during the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state, the game state settings will not be changed. This is the same as in the first embodiment.

Next, the flow of gameplay in the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment will be explained based on Figure 45. As shown in Figure 45, if jackpot pattern A (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn in the lottery for special pattern 1 in a low-probability non-time-saving state, after 4R of jackpot play, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state) with 300 time-saving cycles (see Figure 42). Also, if a special miss (miss pattern B) is drawn, the game will not be played, and the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (special miss-triggered time-saving state) with 300 time-saving cycles (see Figure 43). Because the ceiling number of cycles is 300, this confirms that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached.

If the ceiling is reached without a jackpot in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or the special miss trigger time-saving state, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (ceiling-reach trigger time-saving state) where the number of time-saving cycles is 500. Here, in the second embodiment, if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is won based on the lottery on special pattern 2 in the ceiling-reach trigger time-saving state based on reaching the ceiling, after 10 rounds of jackpot play, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state) where the number of time-saving cycles is 50 (see Figure 42). Therefore, in this case, if the special pattern changes 50 times without a jackpot or special miss (the number of time-saving cycles has been used up), the game will return to the low-probability non-time-saving state.

In contrast, if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is drawn based on the lottery on Special Chart 2 while in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state before the ceiling is reached, after 10 rounds of jackpot play, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state) with 300 time-saving cycles (see Figure 42). Furthermore, if a special miss is drawn, the game will not be played, and the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving state (special miss trigger time-saving state) with 300 time-saving cycles (see Figure 43). Therefore, in these cases, it is confirmed that the time-saving state will continue again until the ceiling is reached.

In this way, in the second embodiment, if a player hits jackpot symbol A (non-probability variable symbol) or a special miss (miss symbol B) in a low-probability non-time-saving state and transitions to a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state), drawing jackpot symbol C (non-probability variable symbol) or a special miss during that jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state is more advantageous to the player in terms of the number of time-saving turns set in the subsequent time-saving state than drawing jackpot symbol C (non-probability variable symbol) after the ceiling has been reached and the state has transitioned to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state. Therefore, this innovative gameplay can increase the player's interest in the game.

In the second embodiment, as mentioned above, winning jackpot pattern C in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or the special miss trigger time-saving state is more advantageous to the player in terms of the number of time-saving periods than winning jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) based on the lottery on special chart 2 in the ceiling-trigger time-saving state. However, as in the first embodiment, the ceiling-trigger time-saving state takes priority over the special miss trigger time-saving state or the jackpot trigger time-saving state. While this configuration can be said to be disadvantageous to the player, it also increases the significance of staying in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or the special miss trigger time-saving state, and can be said to contribute to increasing interest in the game.

In the second embodiment, when the number of time-saving cycles is controlled to a low-probability time-saving state of 50 cycles based on winning the jackpot symbol C in the ceiling-triggering time-saving state, if the jackpot symbol C or a special miss is drawn, the low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggering time-saving state or special miss-triggering time-saving state) is set to a time-saving cycle of 300 cycles. In other words, the continuation of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached is confirmed.

In addition, if jackpot pattern B (a probability variable pattern that triggers control to a high probability state) is won in the lottery on special chart 1 in a low probability non-time-saving state, or if jackpot pattern D (a probability variable pattern) is won in the lottery on special chart 2 in a low probability time-saving state, the game will be controlled to a high probability time-saving state with 160 STs upon the end of the jackpot game. If jackpot pattern D (a probability variable pattern) is won based on the lottery on special chart 2 in a high probability time-saving state, the game will be controlled again to a high probability time-saving state with 160 STs upon the end of the jackpot game.

In contrast, if jackpot pattern C (non-probability variable pattern) is selected based on the lottery on Special Chart 2 in the high-probability time-saving state, the high-probability time-saving state is also a jackpot-triggering time-saving state, and therefore, upon completion of the jackpot game, the number of time-saving times will be controlled to a low-probability time-saving state (jackpot-triggering time-saving state) of 300. Therefore, in this case, it is confirmed that the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached. In this way, the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment offers players an advantage when playing in the high-probability time-saving state compared to the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the first embodiment.

As explained above, with the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, rather than hitting the jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol C) after the number of times the special symbol fluctuations have been executed reaches the ceiling number (300 times) and the system is controlled to enter the ceiling-triggering time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol C) or the special losing symbol (losing symbol D) in the time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special losing trigger time-saving state) before the number of times the special symbol fluctuations have been executed reaches the ceiling number (300 times). This is because the number of time-saving states in the subsequent time-saving state is set so that the number of remaining special symbol fluctuations between the end of the time-saving state and the next ceiling-triggering time-saving state is reduced (see Figures 44 and 45). Therefore, the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment can provide such new gameplay features and increase the enjoyment of games using the time-saving state.

In particular, according to the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, if a jackpot pattern (jackpot pattern C) or a special miss pattern (miss pattern D) is drawn in the time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special miss trigger time-saving state) before the number of times the special pattern variation has been executed reaches the ceiling number of times (300 times), it is determined that the subsequent time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special miss trigger time-saving state) will continue until the next ceiling-trigger time-saving state.However, if a jackpot pattern (jackpot pattern C) is drawn after the number of times the special pattern variation has been executed reaches the ceiling number of times (300 times) and is controlled to the ceiling-trigger time-saving state, a new gameplay feature can be provided in which the subsequent time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state) will not continue until the next ceiling-trigger time-saving state (see Figures 44 and 45). Furthermore, if the time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special miss trigger time-saving state) continues until the next ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state, the time-saving state can essentially be said to continue until the next jackpot game is played, allowing the player to aim for the next jackpot game in a significantly advantageous situation.

Furthermore, with the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, by first hitting a jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol A) or a special losing symbol (losing symbol B) in the non-time-saving state, the time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special losing trigger time-saving state) can be controlled to the same number of time-saving cycles as when hitting a jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol A) or a special losing symbol (losing symbol B) in the time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special losing trigger time-saving state) (see Figures 10 and 45). In other words, based on a jackpot or special losing symbol in the non-time-saving state, it is possible to first determine whether the time-saving state will continue until the ceiling is reached. Therefore, this innovative gameplay can increase the enjoyment of the game.

Furthermore, according to the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, even if the number of times the special chart fluctuation has been executed reaches the ceiling number of times (300 times) when in a time-shortened state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state) as well as when in a non-time-shortened state, the machine transitions to a ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortened state (see Figures 26 and 28). This makes it possible to create a gaming machine that is more likely to demonstrate the above-mentioned gameplay characteristics than a configuration that does not transition to the ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortened state during a time-shortened state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state).

Furthermore, according to the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, even if a special losing symbol is drawn during the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state, the state does not transition to the special losing symbol time-saving state (see Figures 26 and 27). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the state transitions to the special losing symbol time-saving state even when a special losing symbol is drawn during the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state, it is easier to ensure the period of time during which the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state is controlled, and it is possible to enhance the significance of the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state in the above-mentioned gameplay.

Furthermore, with the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, a jackpot in a time-saving state triggered by a symbol (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special miss trigger time-saving state) is more advantageous to the player in terms of the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent time-saving state than a jackpot in a time-saving state triggered by a variable number of times (ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state) (see Figure 42). Therefore, it is possible to enhance the significance for the player of hitting a jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C) or a special miss symbol (miss symbol B, miss symbol D).

In the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, the number of time-saving cycles in the time-saving cycle based on a jackpot or special miss during the jackpot trigger time-saving cycle or special miss trigger time-saving cycle is the same as the ceiling number (300 cycles). However, the number of time-saving cycles in the time-saving cycle based on a jackpot or special miss during the jackpot trigger time-saving cycle or special miss trigger time-saving cycle does not have to be the same as the ceiling number, as long as it is greater than the number of time-saving cycles in the jackpot trigger time-saving cycle based on a jackpot during the ceiling-reaching time-saving cycle. However, it is desirable that the number of remaining special chart variations from the end of the time-saving cycle until the ceiling is reached be at least half the ceiling number. This is because it is easier to motivate players to play until the ceiling is reached. Furthermore, if the number of remaining special chart fluctuations from the end of the time-saving state based on a jackpot or special miss during the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state until the next ceiling is reached is less than 10, the time-saving state will continue until close to reaching the ceiling, making it possible to achieve an effect almost identical to that of the second embodiment (a configuration in which the time-saving state continues until the next ceiling is reached). Incidentally, if the number of remaining special chart fluctuations from the end of the time-saving state until the next ceiling is reached is less than 10, it can be said that the number of remaining special chart fluctuations from the end of the time-saving state until the next ceiling is reached is almost zero.

Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment, the number of times the jackpot trigger time-saving state based on a jackpot during the ceiling-triggering time-saving state is shortened is configured so that there are 250 special symbol variations remaining from the end of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached. However, the number of times the jackpot trigger time-saving state based on a jackpot during the ceiling-triggering time-saving state can be changed as appropriate, as long as it is smaller than the number of times the time-saving state based on a jackpot or special miss during the jackpot trigger time-saving state or special miss trigger time-saving state. However, it is desirable to set the number of special symbol variations remaining from the end of the time-saving state until the ceiling is reached to a value greater than at least half the ceiling number. This is because it is easy for the player to feel that the ceiling is still a long way off. Additionally, in order to create a difference in the profits earned between a jackpot after transitioning to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state and a jackpot or special miss before transitioning to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state, it is desirable for there to be a difference of 100 or more times in the number of time-saving cycles between the time-saving state based on a jackpot after transitioning to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state and the time-saving state based on a jackpot or special miss before transitioning to the ceiling-reach-trigger time-saving state.

Third Embodiment
The pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 46 to 48. Figure 46 is a jackpot symbol type determination table for the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, and Figure 47 is a losing symbol type determination table for the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment. The pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment differs from the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the first embodiment mainly in the setting of the game state after the end of the jackpot game and the setting of the time-shortening state based on a special losing.

Specifically, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 46, if jackpot pattern A is won based on the drawing of special chart 1, or if jackpot pattern C is won based on the drawing of special chart 2, if the gaming state at the time of winning is a low-probability non-time-saving state, the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is controlled to a low-probability non-time-saving state (number of probability bonuses: "0" and number of time-saving times: "0"). Furthermore, if the gaming state at the time of winning is a gaming state other than a low-probability non-time-saving state, the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is controlled to a low-probability time-saving state. The number of time-saving times in the low-probability time-saving state varies depending on the gaming state at the time of winning. That is, if the gaming state at the time of winning is a low-probability state and a jackpot-triggered time-saving state, the number of time-saving times is controlled to a low-probability time-saving state with 30 times. Furthermore, if the gaming state at the time of winning is a low-probability state and a ceiling-reaching time-saving state, the number of time-saving times is controlled to a low-probability time-saving state with 120 times. Furthermore, if the game state at the time of winning is a low-probability state and a special miss trigger time-saving state, the number of time-saving times will be controlled to a low-probability time-saving state of 180 times. Furthermore, if the game state at the time of winning is a high-probability state and a non-time-saving state, the number of time-saving times will be controlled to a low-probability time-saving state of 60 times. Furthermore, if the game state at the time of winning is a high-probability state and a jackpot trigger time-saving state, the number of time-saving times will be controlled to a low-probability time-saving state of 210 times.

Note that in the third embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, there are cases where control is made to a high probability state and a non-time-saving state (high probability non-time-saving state). As will be described later, when control is made to a high probability time-saving state, the time-saving state may end before the high probability state. Also, since the number of times the ceiling is reached is not counted in the high probability state, control is not made to a high probability state and a time-saving state triggered by reaching the ceiling. Also, since control to a time-saving state based on a special miss is not made in the high probability state, control is not made to a high probability state and a time-saving state triggered by a special miss.

Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 46, if jackpot pattern B is won based on the drawing of special chart 1, or if jackpot pattern D is won based on the drawing of special chart 2, the game state after the jackpot game ends is controlled to a high-probability time-saving state. When controlled to a high-probability time-saving state, the value of the probability variation counter is set to 10,000. In other words, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the high-probability state essentially continues until the next jackpot is won. Furthermore, the value of the time-saving counter in the high-probability time-saving state is set to a different value depending on the game state at the time of winning. In other words, if the game state at the time of winning is a low-probability non-time-saving state, the number of time-saving times in the high-probability time-saving state is set to 50. Furthermore, if the game state at the time of winning is a low-probability state and a jackpot-triggering time-saving state, the number of time-saving times in the high-probability time-saving state is set to 100. Furthermore, if the game state at the time of winning is a low-probability state and a ceiling-triggered time-saving state, the number of time-saving times in the high-probability time-saving state is set to 200. If the game state at the time of winning is a low-probability state and a special miss-triggered time-saving state, the number of time-saving times in the high-probability time-saving state is set to 300. If the game state at the time of winning is a high-probability non-time-saving state, the number of time-saving times in the high-probability time-saving state is set to 150. If the game state at the time of winning is a high-probability state and a jackpot-triggered time-saving state, the number of time-saving times in the high-probability time-saving state is 10,000. In other words, the time-saving state, like the high-probability state, essentially continues until the next jackpot is won. If the number of time-saving times is controlled to the high-probability time-saving state of 10,000, the player can win the next jackpot without significantly reducing their balls. Furthermore, if the number of time-saving times is controlled to a high-probability time-saving state other than 10,000 times, and a special chart change is executed for the number of time-saving times without winning a jackpot, the game state will transition to a high-probability non-time-saving state.

In this way, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the number of time-saving periods in the time-saving state after the end of jackpot play (jackpot-triggered time-saving state) is different for each game state at the time of winning. In particular, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the three time-saving states - the jackpot-triggered time-saving state, the ceiling-reaching time-saving state, and the special miss-triggered time-saving state - all share the same parameters related to the ease of ball entry into the electric chute 12D (normal symbol variation time and stop time, electric chute 12D opening pattern) (see Figure 12), but the number of time-saving periods set based on the jackpot win differs depending on which time-saving state is triggered. For this reason, the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment has only one time-saving mode in terms of the parameter related to the ease of ball entry into the electric chute 12D (in other words, the setting related to the ease of ball entry into the second starting hole 12), which allows for a simple configuration of the control process for the time-saving mode, while also allowing for a greater variety of settings for the number of time-saving modes after a jackpot, compared to a configuration in which the number of time-saving modes is not changed depending on the trigger for the time-saving mode. Furthermore, the increased variety of settings for the number of time-saving modes after a jackpot increases the player's interest in the timing of the jackpot, which is expected to increase the player's interest in the game. In other words, the benefit awarded to the player increases or decreases depending on the timing of the jackpot (depending on the game state in which the jackpot is won), which increases the player's interest in the timing of the jackpot, which is expected to increase the player's interest in the game.

Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 47, if a losing symbol B is drawn based on the drawing of special symbol 1, or if a losing symbol D is drawn based on the drawing of special symbol 2, and the gaming state at the time of the winning is neither a high probability state nor a ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state, the state is set to a special losing trigger time-saving state. The number of time-saving cycles in the special losing trigger time-saving state varies depending on the gaming state at the time of the winning. That is, if the gaming state at the time of the winning is a low probability non-time-saving state, the number of time-saving cycles is set to a special losing trigger time-saving state with 50 cycles. Furthermore, if the gaming state at the time of the winning is a low probability state and a jackpot trigger time-saving state, the number of time-saving cycles is set to a special losing trigger time-saving state with 210 cycles. Furthermore, if the gaming state at the time of the winning is a low probability state and a special losing trigger time-saving state, the number of time-saving cycles is set to a special losing trigger time-saving state with 120 cycles. In this way, in this mode, whether during the jackpot trigger time-saving state or the special miss trigger time-saving state, if a special miss occurs, a new special miss trigger time-saving state will be set based on that special miss.

In the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the number of time-saving periods in the time-saving state based on a special miss (special miss-triggered time-saving state) differs depending on the gaming state at the time of winning. In particular, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the jackpot-triggered time-saving state and the special miss-triggered time-saving state all share the same parameters related to the ease of balls entering the electric chute 12D (the normal symbol variation time and stop time, and the opening pattern of the electric chute 12D) (see Figure 12). However, the number of time-saving periods set based on the special miss differs depending on which time-saving state is triggered. Therefore, the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment can simplify the control process for the time-saving state compared to a configuration that provides multiple time-saving states with different parameters related to the ease of balls entering the electric chute 12D, while enabling a greater variety of settings for the number of time-saving periods in response to special misses compared to a configuration that does not change the number of time-saving periods depending on the trigger of the time-saving state. Furthermore, by increasing the number of variations in the number of time-saving settings depending on the special miss, it is possible to increase the player's interest in the timing of when they will get the special miss, which is expected to increase their interest in the game. In other words, the benefit awarded to the player will increase or decrease depending on when they get the special miss (depending on the game state in which they get the special miss), which is expected to increase the player's interest in when they will get the special miss, which is expected to increase their interest in the game.

Incidentally, the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment may be controlled to a high-probability non-time-saving state, which was not controlled in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the first embodiment. Figure 48 is a special symbol variation pattern determination table for the high-probability non-time-saving state in the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 48, the special symbol variation pattern determination table for the high-probability non-time-saving state selects a common special symbol variation pattern for both a special miss (miss symbol B, miss symbol D) and a normal miss (miss symbol A, miss symbol C). In other words, in the high-probability non-time-saving state, special misses are treated the same as normal misses. Note that the selection of special symbol variation patterns other than special misses is the same as the selection of special symbol variation patterns in the low-probability non-time-saving state (see Figure 13).

As explained above, with the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state will differ depending on whether the jackpot symbol stops in the jackpot trigger time-saving state or the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state (see Figure 46). This increases interest in the timing of when the jackpot symbol will be drawn, providing a new level of excitement.

In particular, the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment can provide new gameplay features in that hitting a jackpot symbol in a ceiling-triggering time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in a low-probability state and a jackpot-triggering time-saving state, as the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent jackpot-triggering time-saving state increases (see Figure 46). Also, hitting a jackpot symbol in a high-probability state and a jackpot-triggering time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in a ceiling-triggering time-saving state, as the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent jackpot-triggering time-saving state increases.

Furthermore, with the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, when a jackpot symbol stops in a special miss trigger time-saving state based on a special miss symbol (miss symbol B, miss symbol D), the number of time-saving turns in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state will differ depending on whether the jackpot symbol stops in a ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state (see Figure 46). This increases interest in the timing of when the jackpot symbol will be drawn, providing a new level of excitement.

In particular, the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment can provide new gameplay features in that hitting a jackpot symbol in a special miss trigger time-saving state based on special miss symbols (miss symbol B, miss symbol D) is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in a ceiling-reaching time-saving state, as the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state is greater (see Figure 46).

Furthermore, with the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, when a jackpot symbol stops in the jackpot trigger time-saving state, the number of times the time is reduced in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state will differ depending on whether the jackpot symbol stops in the special miss trigger time-saving state (see Figure 46). This increases interest in the timing of when the jackpot symbol will be drawn, providing a new level of excitement.

In particular, the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment can provide new gameplay features in which hitting a jackpot symbol in a special miss trigger time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in a low probability state and a jackpot trigger time-saving state, as the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state increases (see Figure 46). Also, hitting a jackpot symbol in a high probability state and a jackpot trigger time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in a special miss trigger time-saving state, as the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state increases.

Furthermore, according to the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the settings regarding the ease of balls entering the second start hole 12 (such as the normal symbol variation time, stop time, and electric chute opening pattern) are the same for the jackpot trigger time-saving state, the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state, and the special miss trigger time-saving state (see Figure 12). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the settings regarding the ease of balls entering the second start hole 12 differ for each type of time-saving state, it is possible to simplify the control processing for the time-saving state and prevent an increase in the processing burden.

Furthermore, with the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, when a jackpot symbol stops in the jackpot trigger time-saving state, when a jackpot symbol stops in the ceiling-trigger time-saving state, or when a jackpot symbol stops in the special miss trigger time-saving state, the number of time-saving cycles in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state will all change (see Figure 46). This particularly heightens interest in the timing of when a jackpot symbol will be drawn, and can provide a new gaming experience by making players aware of whether they are in the jackpot trigger time-saving state, the ceiling-trigger time-saving state, or the special miss trigger time-saving state.

Furthermore, according to the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, in a low probability state, a jackpot in a time-saving state triggered by something other than a jackpot (a special miss trigger time-saving state, a ceiling-reaching time-saving state) is more advantageous to the player in terms of the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent time-saving state than a jackpot in a jackpot-triggered time-saving state (see Figure 46). Therefore, the significance of hitting a special miss or reaching the ceiling is enhanced, making it possible to create a gaming machine in which interest in the game is less likely to decline even in gaming situations in which the original gaming objective of the pachinko gaming machine, which is to hit a jackpot, cannot be achieved.

In addition, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the number of time-saving cycles in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state changes depending on whether a jackpot symbol or a special miss symbol (miss symbol B, miss symbol D) is stopped in the symbol-triggered time-saving state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special miss trigger time-saving state) or whether a jackpot symbol is stopped in the ceiling-triggered time-saving state (see Figures 46 and 47). In addition, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the number of time-saving cycles in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state changes depending on whether a jackpot symbol is stopped in a specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-saving state) controlled in response to the end of a jackpot game or whether a jackpot symbol is stopped in a non-specific bonus game state (ceiling trigger time-saving state, special miss trigger time-saving state) controlled without a jackpot game (see Figures 46 and 47).

In the third embodiment, the number of time-saving periods in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state based on a jackpot in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state (also referred to as the "first jackpot-triggered time-saving state") is different from the number of time-saving periods in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state based on a jackpot in the ceiling-reach trigger time-saving state (also referred to as the "second jackpot-triggered time-saving state"), but the number of time-saving periods in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state based on a jackpot in the special miss trigger time-saving state (also referred to as the "third jackpot-triggered time-saving state") may be the same as the number of time-saving periods in the first jackpot-triggered time-saving state or the same as the second jackpot-triggered time-saving state. Also, in the third embodiment, the number of time-saving periods in the second jackpot-triggered time-saving state is different from the number of time-saving periods in the third jackpot-triggered time-saving state, but the number of time-saving periods in the first jackpot-triggered time-saving state may be the same as the number of time-saving periods in the second jackpot-triggered time-saving state or the third jackpot-triggered time-saving state. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the number of time-saving cycles in the first jackpot trigger time-saving state is different from the number of time-saving cycles in the third jackpot trigger time-saving state, but the number of time-saving cycles in the second jackpot trigger time-saving state may be the same as the number of time-saving cycles in the first jackpot trigger time-saving state or the same as the number of time-saving cycles in the third jackpot trigger time-saving state.

Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the number of time-saving operations (210 times) set when a non-variable symbol (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C) is hit in a high-probability state and jackpot-triggered time-saving state is greater than the number of time-saving operations (180 times) set when a non-variable symbol (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C) is hit in a low-probability state and special miss-triggered time-saving state. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 49, the number of time-saving operations (210 times) set when a non-variable symbol (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C) is hit in a low-probability state and special miss-triggered time-saving state may be greater than the number of time-saving operations (180 times) set when a non-variable symbol (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C) is hit in a high-probability state and jackpot-triggered time-saving state.

Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the number of time-saving times (10,000 times, i.e., until the next spin) set when a probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) is hit in a high-probability state and jackpot trigger time-saving state is greater than the number of time-saving times (300 times) set when a probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) is hit in a low-probability state and special miss-trigger time-saving state. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 49, the number of time-saving times (10,000 times, i.e., until the next spin) set when a probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) is hit in a low-probability state and special miss-trigger time-saving state may be greater than the number of time-saving times (300 times) set when a probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) is hit in a high-probability state and jackpot trigger time-saving state.

In other words, whether in a low-probability state or a high-probability state, a jackpot in a special miss-trigger time-saving state may be configured to be more advantageous in terms of setting the number of subsequent time-saving times than a jackpot in a jackpot-trigger time-saving state. By configuring it in this way, regardless of whether the state is low-probability or high-probability, being in a special miss-trigger time-saving state is advantageous for the player, further increasing the player's interest in whether they can hit a special miss.

Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the number of time-saving times (180 times) set when a non-probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C) is hit in a low-probability state and special miss-triggered time-saving state is greater than the number of time-saving times (30 times) set when a non-probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C) is hit in a low-probability state and special miss-triggered time-saving state. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 50, the number of time-saving times (180 times) set when a non-probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C) is hit in a low-probability state and jackpot-triggered time-saving state may be greater than the number of time-saving times (30 times) set when a non-probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C) is hit in a low-probability state and special miss-triggered time-saving state.

Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine of the third embodiment, the number of time-saving times (300 times) set when a probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) is hit in a low-probability state and a special miss-triggered time-saving state is greater than the number of time-saving times (100 times) set when a probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) is hit in a low-probability state and a special miss-triggered time-saving state. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 50, the number of time-saving times (300 times) set when a probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) is hit in a low-probability state and a jackpot-triggered time-saving state may be greater than the number of time-saving times (100 times) set when a probability variable symbol (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) is hit in a low-probability state and a special miss-triggered time-saving state.

In other words, whether in a low-probability state or a high-probability state, a jackpot in a jackpot trigger time-saving state may be configured to be more advantageous in terms of setting the number of subsequent time-saving turns than a jackpot in a special miss trigger time-saving state. This configuration makes it advantageous for players to be in a jackpot trigger time-saving state regardless of whether they are in a low-probability state or a high-probability state, further heightening players' interest in whether they will hit a jackpot.

The modified pachinko gaming machine shown in Figure 50 can provide new gameplay features in that hitting a jackpot symbol in the jackpot trigger time-shortening state will result in a greater number of time-shortening turns in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-shortening state, which is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in the ceiling-reaching time-shortening state (see Figure 50). The modified pachinko gaming machine shown in Figure 50 can provide new gameplay features in that hitting a jackpot symbol in the ceiling-reaching time-shortening state will result in a greater number of time-shortening turns in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-shortening state, which is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in the special miss-trigger time-shortening state (see Figure 50). Furthermore, with the modified pachinko gaming machine shown in Figure 50, it is possible to provide new gameplay features in which hitting a jackpot symbol in the jackpot trigger time-saving state increases the number of time-saving turns in the subsequent jackpot trigger time-saving state, making it more advantageous for the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in the special miss trigger time-saving state (see Figure 50).

Furthermore, with the modified pachinko gaming machine shown in Figure 50, a jackpot in a jackpot-triggered time-saving state is more advantageous to the player in terms of the number of time-saving periods in the subsequent time-saving state than a jackpot in a time-saving state triggered by something other than a jackpot (a special miss-triggered time-saving state, a ceiling-reaching time-saving state) (see Figure 50). This makes it possible to enhance the significance of the original gaming objective of the pachinko gaming machine, which is to hit a jackpot.

In addition, in the third embodiment and its modified examples, a configuration may be adopted in which a transition to the special miss trigger time-saving state occurs even when a special miss symbol is drawn during the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state. In this case, the number of time-saving cycles may be different between the special miss trigger time-saving state based on drawing a special miss symbol during the special miss trigger time-saving state and the special miss trigger time-saving state based on drawing a special miss symbol during the ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state.

<Other changes>
In the first embodiment described above, the maximum number of time-saving times when the time-saving state is controlled based on a jackpot win is set to 300, the same as the ceiling number. Therefore, the ceiling is not reached (the value of the ceiling counter reaches 0) before the number of time-saving times in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state reaches 0. However, the number of time-saving times when the time-saving state is controlled based on a jackpot win may be set to a number exceeding the ceiling number (300) (e.g., 400). Specifically, for example, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the first embodiment, the number of time-saving times in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state based on the jackpot symbol A may be set to 400. In this configuration, as shown in FIG. 51 , the ceiling is reached before the remaining number of time-saving times in the jackpot-triggered time-saving state reaches 0, and the machine transitions to the ceiling-triggered time-saving state, in which the number of time-saving times is 500, based on the ceiling-triggered time-saving state. This configuration can be said to prioritize the ceiling-triggered time-saving state over the jackpot-triggered time-saving state. With this configuration, the opportunity to control the ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortening state is ensured, thereby making it possible to enhance the significance of the ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortening state in terms of gameplay.

In addition, in the first and second embodiments, the machine is configured as a so-called ST machine (a gaming machine with a limited number of plays in a high-probability state), and in the third embodiment, it is configured as a so-called probability loop machine (a gaming machine in which, once it transitions to a high-probability state, the high-probability state continues until the next jackpot). However, it may also be configured as a gaming machine of a type other than an ST machine or a probability loop machine. For example, it may be configured as a so-called "type 1/type 2 mixed machine" in which a jackpot game can be executed based on the gaming ball passing through a specific area within the jackpot opening. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, it is configured as a so-called "symbol probability variable machine" in which whether or not it can be controlled to a high-probability state is determined by the type of jackpot symbol that is won, but it may also be a so-called "V probability variable machine" in which transition to a high-probability state is determined based on passage through a specific area within a V attacker (a jackpot device with a specific area).

In addition, in the first and second embodiments, the number of time-saving times for the probability variable symbols (jackpot symbol B, jackpot symbol D) was set to 160 times to match the number of probability variable times, but it may also be set to the same number of time-saving times as the non-probability variable symbols (jackpot symbol A, jackpot symbol C).

In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the ceiling number of times can be changed as appropriate, provided that it does not interfere with gameplay. In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the type and distribution rate of each jackpot symbol and each losing symbol can be changed as appropriate, provided that it does not interfere with gameplay. In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the number of time-saving times can be changed as appropriate, provided that it satisfies the meaning of the various inventions.

Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, with regard to the settings regarding the ease of balls entering the second starting hole 12, the jackpot trigger time-saving state alone may be configured differently from the ceiling-trigger time-saving state and the special miss-trigger time-saving state, the ceiling-trigger time-saving state alone may be configured differently from the jackpot trigger time-saving state and the special miss-trigger time-saving state, or the special miss-trigger time-saving state alone may be configured differently from the jackpot trigger time-saving state and the ceiling-trigger time-saving state. In this case, the time-saving state in which the settings regarding the ease of balls entering the second starting hole 12 differ from the others may be configured to make it easier or more difficult for balls to enter the second starting hole 12 than the other time-saving states. Furthermore, if simplifying the control processing of the time-saving states is not a consideration, the settings regarding the ease of balls entering the second starting hole 12 may be configured differently for the jackpot trigger time-saving state, the ceiling-trigger time-saving state, and the special miss-trigger time-saving state.

Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments described above, when a specific symbol (jackpot symbol, special losing symbol) stops in a non-bonus game state (non-time-saving state), and control is exercised to enter a symbol-triggered bonus game state (jackpot-triggered time-saving state, special losing triggered time-saving state), the number of time-saving times is set to 300, the same as the specific number of times (ceiling number of times). However, the number does not have to be the same as the ceiling number, such as 350 times or 400 times, as long as the symbol-triggered bonus game state continues until the ceiling is reached.

In addition, in the first embodiment described above, when the game is controlled to the pattern-triggered bonus game state (jackpot-triggered time-shortened state) based on the stopping of a specific symbol (jackpot symbol) in the number-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching time-shortened state), the number of time-shortened times is set to 300, the same as the specific number (ceiling number of times). However, as long as the value allows the pattern-triggered bonus game state to continue until the next ceiling is reached, it does not have to be the same value as the ceiling number, such as 350 or 400 times.

Furthermore, in the second embodiment described above, when a specific symbol (jackpot symbol, special miss symbol) stops in a symbol-triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special miss trigger time-saving state), the number of time-saving times when the game is controlled to a symbol-triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-saving state, special miss trigger time-saving state) is set to 300, the same as the specific number of times (ceiling number of times). However, the number does not have to be the same as the ceiling number of times, such as 350 times or 400 times, as long as the symbol-triggered bonus game state continues until the ceiling is reached.

Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments described above, the time-saving state is configured to continue until the ceiling is reached whether a jackpot symbol (for example, jackpot symbol A) or a special symbol (for example, losing symbol B) is stopped in a non-bonus game state (non-time-saving state). However, the time-saving state may be configured to continue until the ceiling is reached only when a jackpot symbol (for example, jackpot symbol A) is stopped in a non-bonus game state (non-time-saving state), or the time-saving state may be configured to continue until the ceiling is reached only when a special symbol (for example, losing symbol B) is stopped in a non-bonus game state (non-time-saving state).

In addition, in the first embodiment described above, the time-saving state was configured not to continue until the ceiling was reached when a jackpot trigger bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-saving state) or a special pattern trigger bonus game state (special miss trigger time-saving state) was stopped, whether a jackpot symbol (for example, jackpot symbol C) or a special pattern (for example, miss symbol D) was stopped. However, it may also be configured so that the time-saving state does not continue until the ceiling is reached only when a jackpot symbol (for example, jackpot symbol C) is stopped, or so that the time-saving state does not continue until the ceiling is reached only when a special pattern (for example, miss symbol D) is stopped.

In addition, in the second embodiment described above, the time-shortened state was configured to continue until the ceiling was reached whether a jackpot symbol (for example, jackpot symbol C) or a special symbol (for example, miss symbol D) was stopped in the jackpot trigger bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) or the special symbol trigger bonus game state (special miss trigger time-shortened state). However, it may also be configured so that the time-shortened state continues until the ceiling is reached only when a jackpot symbol (for example, jackpot symbol C) is stopped, or so that the time-shortened state continues until the ceiling is reached only when a special symbol (for example, miss symbol D) is stopped.

In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the jackpot can be won by either the drawing for Special Chart 1 or the drawing for Special Chart 2. Alternatively, the drawing for Special Chart 1 may not include a jackpot, but the drawing for Special Chart 2 may include a jackpot. In this case, when playing in a non-time-saving mode where the drawing for Special Chart 1 is the main focus, the player first aims to win a special miss (e.g., miss symbol B) based on the drawing for Special Chart 1. If a special miss is drawn in the non-time-saving mode, the player transitions to a special miss-trigger time-saving mode (first time-saving mode) with a predetermined number of time-saving cycles (e.g., 30 cycles). However, if a jackpot (e.g., jackpot symbol C) is drawn based on the drawing for Special Chart 2 during this special miss-trigger time-saving mode, the player may transition to a jackpot-trigger time-saving mode (second time-saving mode) with a number of time-saving cycles greater than the predetermined number (e.g., 100 cycles). Furthermore, in this case, the system may be configured to transition to a jackpot-triggering time-saving state (third time-saving state) with an even greater number of time-saving cycles (e.g., 300 cycles) based on a jackpot (e.g., jackpot symbol C) based on the lottery result of special symbol 2 during the jackpot-triggering time-saving state. In this way, even if the lottery result of special symbol 1 does not include a jackpot, it is possible to achieve gameplay that gradually progresses the game to a situation advantageous to the player by using symbols (special losing symbols, jackpot symbols) that trigger the time-saving state.

In addition, in each of the above embodiments, a certain number of prize balls (at least 4 rounds' worth of prize balls) can be awarded for both a jackpot based on the drawing of special chart 1 and a jackpot based on the drawing of special chart 2. In contrast, a jackpot based on the drawing of special chart 1 (e.g., jackpot pattern A) may be configured so that prize balls are not actually awarded, but the player is transitioned to a jackpot-triggering time-saving state with a predetermined number of time-saving times (e.g., 30 times). In this configuration, if a special miss (e.g., miss pattern D) is drawn based on the drawing of special chart 2 in the jackpot-triggering time-saving state (first time-saving state), the player may be transitioned to a special miss-triggering time-saving state (second time-saving state) with a number of time-saving times greater than the predetermined number (e.g., 100 times). Furthermore, in this case, a special miss (e.g., miss symbol D) based on the drawing of special symbol 2 in the special miss trigger time-saving state may be used to transition to a special miss trigger time-saving state (third time-saving state) with an even greater number of time-saving times (e.g., 300 times). This configuration allows for gameplay that gradually progresses to a situation favorable to the player by using symbols (special miss symbols, jackpot symbols) that trigger the time-saving state, even if the drawing result of special symbol 1 does not include a jackpot that can earn a certain number of prize balls. In addition, in a gaming machine with this configuration, if the probability of winning a special miss in the drawing of special symbol 2 is higher than the probability of winning a jackpot in the non-time-saving state, it becomes easier to transition from the second time-saving state to the third time-saving state, providing gameplay with a strong sense of anticipation of progression to the third time-saving state. On the other hand, if the probability of winning a special miss in the lottery for Special Chart 2 is made lower than the probability of winning a jackpot in the non-time-saving state, it will be more difficult to transition from the second time-saving state to the third time-saving state, providing gameplay that makes the transition worthwhile.

In addition, in the above-mentioned configuration, if the result of the determination using the jackpot random number is a miss and the result of the determination using the symbol type random number is a special miss (miss symbol B, miss symbol D), the game is controlled to a time-shortened state without executing a jackpot game. Alternatively, a random number (time-shortened random number) for a lottery to determine whether to control to a time-shortened state (time-shortened lottery) may be obtained separately, and the time-shortened lottery (determination of whether to enter a time-shortened state) may be performed using the time-shortened random number before the variable display of the special symbol begins. In this case, the time-shortened lottery may be performed before or after the determination of whether or not a jackpot has occurred. Furthermore, when a time-shortened lottery is performed, the time-shortened lottery may be performed using a jackpot random number or a symbol type random number instead of a time-shortened random number.

In the above-described embodiment, the upper limit of the number of times the special symbol variable display is executed (time-saving count) during the time-saving state is the combined upper limit of the number of times that it is executed, counting whether the special symbol 1 variable display or the special symbol 2 variable display is executed. However, in addition to this combined upper limit of the number of times that it is executed, a special symbol 1 upper limit of the number of times that it is executed, which counts only the special symbol 1 variable display, or a special symbol 2 upper limit of the number of times that it is executed, which counts only the special symbol 2 variable display, may be set, and the time-saving state may end when either of these numbers is met. Note that the special symbol 1 upper limit of the number of times that it is executed and the special symbol 2 upper limit of the number of times that it is executed may be set to a value different from the combined upper limit of the number of times that it is executed. Alternatively, without setting a combined upper limit of the number of times that it is executed, a special symbol 1 upper limit of the number of times that it is executed and the time-saving state may end when either of these numbers is met, or only a special symbol 2 upper limit of the number of times that it is executed and the time-saving state may end when this number is met. When setting the upper limit of the number of times that it is executed and the special symbol 2 upper limit of the number of times that it is executed, these upper limit of the number of times that it is executed and the special symbol 2 upper limit of the number of times that it is executed may also be set to different values depending on the game state at the time of winning, as with the combined upper limit of the number of times that it is executed.

In addition, in the above configuration, the player can obtain a greater bonus when a jackpot game is executed based on the lottery for special chart 2 than when a jackpot game is executed based on the lottery for special chart 1, but the opposite or the same may also be true. The bonuses that the player can obtain include the number of prize balls that can be obtained in a jackpot game, and various settings related to the game state after a jackpot game (whether or not the game is controlled to a high probability state or a time-saving state, and the number of time-saving times if the game is controlled to a time-saving state, etc.).

In addition, in the above embodiment, the display unit that performs the variable effects is configured using the display screen of one display device (display screen 50a of image display device 50), but it may also be configured using the display screens of two or more display devices. For example, in a configuration that includes a sub-display device in addition to image display device 50 as the main display device, the display screen of the main display device may be configured to perform the variable effects of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3, and the display screen of the sub-display may be configured to perform the variable effects of the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3. Furthermore, a touch panel consisting of a touch sensor and a liquid crystal display device may be mounted on the gaming machine frame 2, and the liquid crystal display device on this touch panel may be used as the sub-display device.

In addition, in the above embodiment, four random numbers, including a jackpot random number, are obtained as random numbers (determination information) based on winning at the first starting port 11 or the second starting port 12. However, it is also possible to obtain a single random number and use that random number to determine whether or not there is a jackpot, the jackpot pattern, the type of losing pattern, whether or not there is a reach, and the type of variation pattern. In other words, the number of random numbers obtained based on starting winning and what is determined by each random number can be set arbitrarily.

10. Inventions Disclosed in This Specification The following inventions have been disclosed up to the preceding paragraphs in this [Mode for Carrying Out the Invention]. In the following description, the names and expressions of corresponding configurations in the embodiments and the symbols used in the drawings are added in parentheses for reference. However, the components of each invention are not limited to these additions. Note that Invention A is a collective term for the following Inventions A1 to A8. Invention B is a collective term for the following Inventions B1 to B8. Invention C is a collective term for the following Inventions C1 to C5. Invention D is a collective term for the following Inventions D1 to D5.

Invention A1:
A pattern changing means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the special pattern change) for changing and displaying a predetermined identification pattern (special pattern);
and a game state control means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the control of the game state) capable of controlling a special game state (time-shortened state) in which a game ball is likely to enter the variable start port (second start port 12) until the number of times the pattern variation is executed in the special game state reaches a predetermined upper limit number of times (time-shortened number of times),
In the bonus game state,
A symbol-triggered bonus game state (a jackpot trigger time-saving state, a special miss trigger time-saving state) controlled based on the fact that the identification symbol has stopped at a specific symbol (a jackpot symbol, a special miss symbol);
A number-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortening state) controlled based on the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaching a specific number (ceiling number of times, for example, 300 times),
The upper limit number of times differs between the pattern-triggered bonus game state, which is controlled based on the specific pattern stopping in the pattern-triggered bonus game state (jackpot-triggered time-shortened state, special miss-triggered time-shortened state), and the pattern-triggered bonus game state, which is controlled based on the specific pattern stopping in the number-of-times-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching time-shortened state) (see Figures 46, 47, 49, 50, 8, 9, 42, and 43).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, when a specific symbol stops in the symbol-triggered bonus game state, the upper limit of the number of symbol changes in the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state differs from when a specific symbol stops in the number-triggered bonus game state. This heightens interest in the timing at which a specific symbol stops, providing new gaming excitement.

Invention A2:
The gaming machine according to Invention A1,
The specific symbols include a jackpot symbol that triggers a special game (jackpot game) advantageous to the player,
The upper limit number of times differs between a first pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state based on a jackpot during the jackpot trigger time-shortened state), which is the pattern triggered bonus game state that is controlled after the special game ends based on the jackpot pattern being stopped in the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) based on the jackpot pattern, and a second pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state based on a jackpot during the ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortened state), which is the pattern triggered bonus game state that is controlled after the special game ends based on the jackpot pattern being stopped in the number-of-times triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortened state) (see Figures 46, 49, 50, 8, and 42).

With a gaming machine configured in this way, the upper limit of the number of times the pattern can change in the subsequent pattern-triggered bonus game state changes depending on whether the jackpot symbol stops in a pattern-triggered bonus game state based on the jackpot symbol or in a count-triggered bonus game state. This heightens interest in the timing of when the jackpot symbol will be drawn, providing new entertainment. In particular, it is possible to provide new gaming entertainment by making players aware of whether they are in a pattern-triggered bonus game state based on the jackpot symbol or a count-triggered bonus game state.

Invention A3:
The gaming machine according to Invention A2,
The upper limit number of times in the first symbol-triggered bonus game state is greater than that in the second symbol-triggered bonus game state (see FIGS. 50 and 42).

A gaming machine with this configuration can provide new gameplay features in which hitting a jackpot symbol in a symbol-triggered bonus game state based on a jackpot symbol is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in a count-triggered bonus game state, as the upper limit on the number of times the bonus game state can be played thereafter is higher.

Invention A4:
The gaming machine according to Invention A2,
The upper limit number of times in the first symbol-triggered bonus game state is smaller than that in the second symbol-triggered bonus game state (see Figures 46, 49, and 8).

A gaming machine with this configuration can provide new gameplay benefits in that, rather than hitting a jackpot symbol in a symbol-triggered bonus game state based on a jackpot symbol, hitting a jackpot symbol in a count-triggered bonus game state increases the upper limit on the number of times the bonus game state can be played thereafter, giving the player an advantage.

Invention A5:
The specific symbols include a jackpot symbol that triggers a special game advantageous to the player, and a special symbol (special losing symbol) different from the jackpot symbol,
The upper limit number of times differs between the third pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered time-shortened state) which is the pattern triggered bonus game state that is controlled after the special game ends based on the jackpot pattern being stopped in the pattern triggered bonus game state (special miss triggered time-shortened state) based on the special pattern, and the second pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered time-shortened state) which is the pattern triggered bonus game state that is controlled after the special game ends based on the jackpot pattern being stopped in the number-of-times triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching-time-shortened state) (see Figures 46, 49, 50, 8, and 42).

With a gaming machine configured in this way, the maximum number of symbol changes in the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state differs depending on whether the jackpot symbol stops in a symbol-triggered bonus game state based on a special symbol or in a count-triggered bonus game state. This heightens interest in the timing of when the jackpot symbol will be drawn, providing new entertainment. In particular, it is possible to provide new gaming entertainment by making players aware of whether they are in a symbol-triggered bonus game state based on a special symbol or a count-triggered bonus game state.

Invention A6:
The gaming machine according to Invention A5,
The upper limit number of times in the third symbol-triggered bonus game state is greater than that in the second symbol-triggered bonus game state (see Figures 46, 49, and 42).

A gaming machine with this configuration can provide new gameplay features in which hitting a jackpot symbol in a symbol-triggered bonus game state based on a special symbol is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in a count-triggered bonus game state, as the upper limit on the number of times the bonus game state can be played thereafter is higher.

Invention A7:
The gaming machine according to Invention A5,
The upper limit number of times in the third symbol-triggered bonus game state is smaller than that in the second symbol-triggered bonus game state (see FIGS. 50 and 8).

A gaming machine with this configuration can provide new gameplay benefits in that, rather than hitting a jackpot symbol in a symbol-triggered bonus game state based on a special symbol, hitting a jackpot symbol in a number-triggered bonus game state increases the upper limit on the number of times the bonus game state can be played thereafter, giving the player an advantage.

Invention A8:
A gaming machine according to any one of Inventions A1 to A7,
A gaming machine characterized in that the setting regarding the ease of a ball entering the variable start port in the pattern-triggered bonus game state (jackpot-triggered time-shortened state, special miss-triggered time-shortened state) is the same as the setting regarding the ease of a ball entering the variable start port in the number-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching time-shortened state) (see Figure 12).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, the settings regarding the ease of balls entering the variable start port are the same for both the symbol-triggered bonus game state and the count-triggered bonus game state. This simplifies the control process for the bonus game state compared to a configuration with multiple settings regarding the ease of balls entering the variable start port, and reduces the processing burden.

Invention B1:
A pattern changing means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the special pattern change) for changing and displaying a predetermined identification pattern (special pattern);
A special game execution means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the execution of a jackpot game) for executing a special game (jackpot game) advantageous to a player when the identification symbol stops at a jackpot symbol;
and a game state control means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the control of the game state) capable of controlling a special game state (time-shortened state) in which a game ball is likely to enter the variable start port (second start port 12) until the number of times the pattern variation is executed in the special game state reaches a predetermined upper limit number of times (time-shortened number of times),
In the bonus game state,
A specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) controlled in response to the end of the special game;
A non-specific bonus game state (a ceiling-reaching trigger time-saving state, a special miss trigger time-saving state) that is controlled without going through the special game,
The upper limit number of times differs between the specific bonus game state, which is controlled based on the jackpot symbol stopping in the specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state), and the specific bonus game state, which is controlled based on the jackpot symbol stopping in the non-specific bonus game state (ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state) (see Figures 46, 49, and 50).

With a gaming machine configured in this way, when a jackpot symbol stops in a specific bonus game state, which is controlled in response to the end of a special game, the maximum number of symbol changes in the subsequent specific bonus game state will be different from when a jackpot symbol stops in a non-specific bonus game state, which is controlled without going through a special game. This heightens interest in the timing at which the jackpot symbol stops, providing a new gaming experience.

Invention B2:
The gaming machine according to Invention B1,
The non-specific bonus game state includes a first non-specific bonus game state (a ceiling-triggered time-shortened state) that is controlled without going through the special game based on the number of times that the symbol variations that have been continuously executed without the jackpot symbol being stopped reaching a specific number of times (a ceiling number of times, for example, 300 times),
A gaming machine characterized in that the upper limit number of times differs between a first specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) which is the specific bonus game state controlled based on the jackpot symbol being stopped in the specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) and a second specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) which is the specific bonus game state controlled based on the jackpot symbol being stopped in the first non-specific bonus game state (ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortened state) (see Figures 46, 49, and 50).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, the upper limit on the number of symbol changes in the subsequent specific bonus game state differs depending on whether the jackpot symbol stops in a specific bonus game state, which is controlled in response to the completion of a special game, or in a first non-specific bonus game state, which is controlled without going through a special game based on the number of symbol changes reaching a specific number. This heightens interest in the timing of when the jackpot symbol will be drawn, providing new entertainment. In particular, it is possible to provide new gaming entertainment by making players aware of whether they are in a specific bonus game state, which is controlled in response to the completion of a special game, or a first non-specific bonus game state, which is controlled based on the number of symbol changes reaching a specific number.

Invention B3:
The gaming machine according to Invention B2,
The upper limit number of times in the first special bonus game state is greater than that in the second special bonus game state (see FIG. 50).

A gaming machine with this configuration can provide new gameplay benefits in that hitting a jackpot symbol in a specific bonus game state, which is controlled in response to the end of special play, increases the upper limit on the number of subsequent bonus game states, giving the player an advantage over hitting a jackpot symbol in a first non-specific bonus game state, which is controlled based on the number of symbol changes reaching a specific number.

Invention B4:
The gaming machine according to Invention B2,
The upper limit number of times in the first special bonus game state is smaller than that in the second special bonus game state (see Figures 46 and 49).

A gaming machine with this configuration can provide new gameplay benefits in that, rather than hitting a jackpot symbol in a specific bonus game state controlled based on the number of symbol changes reaching a specific number, hitting a jackpot symbol in the first non-specific bonus game state increases the upper limit on the number of bonus game states that can be played thereafter, giving the player an advantage over hitting a jackpot symbol in the specific bonus game state controlled based on the end of special play.

Invention B5:
The gaming machine according to Invention B1,
The non-specific bonus game state includes a second non-specific bonus game state (special miss trigger time-shortened state) that is controlled without going through the special game based on the fact that the identification symbol has stopped on a special symbol (special miss symbol) different from the jackpot symbol (see FIG. 47 ).
A gaming machine characterized in that the upper limit number of times differs between a first specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) which is the specific bonus game state controlled based on the jackpot symbol being stopped in the specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) and a third specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) which is the specific bonus game state controlled based on the jackpot symbol being stopped in the second non-specific bonus game state (special miss trigger time-shortened state) (see Figures 46, 49, and 50).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, when a jackpot symbol stops in a specific bonus game state controlled in response to the end of a special game, the upper limit on the number of symbol changes in the subsequent specific bonus game state changes depending on whether the jackpot symbol stops in a second non-specific bonus game state controlled without going through a special game based on the stopping of a special symbol different from the jackpot symbol. This heightens interest in the timing of when the jackpot symbol will be drawn, providing new entertainment. In particular, it is possible to provide new gaming entertainment by making players aware of whether they are in a specific bonus game state controlled in response to the end of a special game or a second non-specific bonus game state based on a special symbol different from the jackpot symbol.

Invention B6:
A gaming machine according to Invention B5,
The upper limit number of times in the first special bonus game state is greater than that in the third special bonus game state (see FIG. 50).

A gaming machine with this configuration can provide new gameplay features in which hitting a jackpot symbol in a specific bonus game state, which is controlled in response to the end of a special game, is more advantageous to the player than hitting a jackpot symbol in a second non-specific bonus game state based on a special symbol different from the jackpot symbol, as the upper limit on the number of times the bonus game state can be played thereafter is higher.

Invention B7:
A gaming machine according to Invention B5,
The upper limit number of times in the first special bonus game state is smaller than that in the third special bonus game state (see Figures 46 and 49).

A gaming machine with this configuration can provide new gameplay benefits in that, rather than hitting a jackpot symbol in a specific bonus game state controlled by the end of special play, hitting a jackpot symbol in a second non-specific bonus game state based on a special symbol different from the jackpot symbol increases the upper limit on the number of subsequent bonus game states, giving the player an advantage.

Invention B8:
A gaming machine according to any one of Inventions B1 to B7,
A gaming machine characterized in that the setting regarding the ease of a ball entering the variable start port in the specific bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortening state) is the same as the setting regarding the ease of a ball entering the variable start port in the non-specific bonus game state (ceiling-reach trigger time-shortening state, special miss trigger time-shortening state) (see Figure 12).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, the settings regarding the ease of balls entering the variable start port are the same for the specific bonus game state, which is controlled upon the completion of a special game, and the non-specific bonus game state, which is controlled without going through a special game. This simplifies the control process for the bonus game state compared to a configuration with multiple settings regarding the ease of balls entering the variable start port, and reduces the processing burden.

Invention C1:
A pattern changing means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the special pattern change) for changing and displaying a predetermined identification pattern (special pattern);
and a game state control means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the control of the game state) capable of controlling the number of times the pattern variation is executed in the bonus game state (time-shortened state) until the number of times reaches a predetermined upper limit (time-shortened number of times) in a bonus game state (time-shortened state) in which a game ball is more likely to enter the variable start port (second start port 12) than in a non-bonus game state (non-time-shortened state),
In the bonus game state,
A symbol-triggered bonus game state (a jackpot trigger time-saving state, a special miss trigger time-saving state) controlled based on the fact that the identification symbol has stopped at a specific symbol (a jackpot symbol, a special miss symbol);
A number-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortening state) controlled based on the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaching a specific number (ceiling number, for example, "300");
The upper limit number of times is
In the symbol-triggered bonus game state, which is controlled based on the fact that the specific symbol (for example, jackpot symbol C) has stopped in the number-of-times-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching-triggered time-shortened state), the number of symbol fluctuations required from the end of the symbol-triggered bonus game state to the start of the next number-of-times-triggered bonus game state can be set to a first value (for example, "300") that is a predetermined value (for example, "0") (see FIGS. 8 and 11(F)).
In the pattern-triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered time-shortened state, special miss triggered time-shortened state), which is controlled based on the specific pattern (e.g., jackpot pattern C, miss pattern D) being stopped, the number of pattern changes required from the end of the pattern-triggered bonus game state to the start of the next number-triggered bonus game state can be set to a second value (e.g., "50") that is greater than the predetermined value (e.g., "250") (see Figures 8, 9, and 11 (D) (E)). This is a gaming machine (pachinko game machine PY1 of the first embodiment).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, winning a specific symbol after the number of symbol changes has reached a specific number and the machine has been controlled to enter a count-triggered bonus game state is more advantageous to the player than winning a specific symbol in the pattern-triggered bonus game state before the number of symbol changes has reached a specific number, in that the upper limit on the number of symbol changes in the subsequent pattern-triggered bonus game state is set so that the number of symbol changes remaining between the end of the pattern-triggered bonus game state and the start of the next count-triggered bonus game state is reduced. Therefore, a gaming machine of this configuration can provide such new gameplay features and increase the enjoyment of playing in bonus game states.

Invention C2:
A pattern changing means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the special pattern change) for changing and displaying a predetermined identification pattern (special pattern);
and a game state control means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the control of the game state) capable of controlling the number of times the pattern variation is executed in the bonus game state (time-shortened state) until the number of times reaches a predetermined upper limit (time-shortened number of times) in a bonus game state (time-shortened state) in which a game ball is more likely to enter the variable start port (second start port 12) than in a non-bonus game state (non-time-shortened state),
In the bonus game state,
A symbol-triggered bonus game state (a jackpot trigger time-saving state, a special miss trigger time-saving state) controlled based on the fact that the identification symbol has stopped at a specific symbol (a jackpot symbol, a special miss symbol);
A number-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortening state) controlled based on the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaching a specific number (ceiling number, for example, "300");
The upper limit number of times is
In the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered time-shortened state, special miss triggered time-shortened state), which is controlled based on the specific pattern (for example, jackpot pattern C, miss pattern D) being stopped, the number of pattern changes required from the end of the pattern triggered bonus game state to the start of the next number-triggered bonus game state can be set to a first value (for example, "300") which is a predetermined value (for example, "0") (see FIGS. 42, 43, and 44(H)(I)).
In the pattern-triggered bonus game state, which is controlled based on the specific pattern (for example, jackpot pattern C) being stopped in the number-of-times-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching-triggered time-shortening state), the number of pattern changes required from the end of the pattern-triggered bonus game state to the start of the next number-of-times-triggered bonus game state can be set to a second value (for example, "50") that is greater than the predetermined value (for example, "250") (see Figures 42 and 44 (J)). This is a gaming machine (pachinko game machine of the second embodiment).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, it is more advantageous for the player to hit a specific symbol in the pattern-triggered bonus game state before the number of symbol changes reaches a specific number, rather than hitting a specific symbol after the number of symbol changes has reached a specific number and the game is controlled to a count-triggered bonus game state, in that the upper limit on the number of symbol changes in the subsequent pattern-triggered bonus game state is set so that the number of symbol changes remaining from the end of the pattern-triggered bonus game state until the next count-triggered bonus game state is reduced. Therefore, a gaming machine of this configuration can provide such new gameplay features and increase the enjoyment of playing using the bonus game state.

Invention C3:
The gaming machine according to Invention C1 or Invention C2,
A gaming machine characterized in that the predetermined value is a value less than 10.

In accordance with the gaming machine of Invention C3, which is dependent on Invention C1, if a specific symbol is drawn after the number of times the symbol fluctuation has been executed reaches a specific number and the game is controlled to a count-triggered bonus game state, it is determined that the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state will continue until close to the next count-triggered bonus game state. However, if a specific symbol is drawn in the symbol-triggered bonus game state before the number of times the symbol fluctuation has been executed reaches a specific number, the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state will not continue until close to the next count-triggered bonus game state, providing new gameplay features.

Furthermore, according to the gaming machine of Invention C3, which is dependent on Invention C2, if a specific symbol is drawn in the symbol-triggered bonus game state before the number of symbol fluctuations reaches a specific number, it is determined that the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state will continue until close to the next number-triggered bonus game state. However, if a specific symbol is drawn after the number of symbol fluctuations reaches a specific number and the game is controlled to the number-triggered bonus game state, the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state will not continue until close to the next number-triggered bonus game state, providing new gameplay features.

Invention C4:
A gaming machine according to invention C3,
A gaming machine characterized in that the predetermined value is 0.

In the gaming machine of Invention C4, which is dependent on Invention C1, if a specific symbol is drawn after the number of times the symbol fluctuation has been executed reaches a specific number and the game is controlled to a count-triggered bonus game state, it is determined that the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state will continue until the next count-triggered bonus game state. However, if a specific symbol is drawn in the symbol-triggered bonus game state before the number of times the symbol fluctuation has been executed reaches a specific number, the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state will not continue until the next count-triggered bonus game state, providing new gameplay features.

In the gaming machine of Invention C4, which is dependent on Invention C2, if a specific symbol is drawn in the symbol-triggered bonus game state before the number of symbol changes reaches a specific number, it is determined that the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state will continue until the next number-triggered bonus game state. However, if a specific symbol is drawn after the number of symbol changes reaches a specific number and the game is controlled to the number-triggered bonus game state, the subsequent symbol-triggered bonus game state will not continue until the next number-triggered bonus game state, providing new gameplay features.

Invention C5:
A gaming machine according to any one of Inventions C1 to C4,
The upper limit number of times is set to the first value (e.g., "300") in the symbol-triggered bonus game state, which is controlled based on the specific symbol (e.g., jackpot symbol A, losing symbol B) stopping in the non-bonus game state (non-time-shortened state) (see Figures 8, 9, 10(B)(C), 42, and 43).

The gaming machine of Invention C5, which is dependent on Invention C1, first hits a specific symbol in a non-benefit game state, which then controls the machine to a count-triggered bonus game state, and then controls the machine to a symbol-triggered bonus game state with the same maximum number of plays as when the specific symbol is hit. From this point on, the game progresses with the gameplay described above, providing new gameplay features.

The gaming machine of Invention C5, which is dependent on Invention C2, can provide new gameplay features by first winning a specific symbol in a non-benefit game state, thereby controlling the game to a symbol-triggered bonus game state with the same maximum number of plays as when a specific symbol is won in a symbol-triggered bonus game state, and from this point onwards the game progresses with the gameplay features described above.

Invention C6:
A gaming machine according to any one of Inventions C1 to C5,
The gaming machine is characterized in that the gaming state control means controls the gaming state to the number-triggered bonus gaming state when the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaches a specific number (a ceiling number, for example, "300"), regardless of whether the gaming state is the non-bonus gaming state or the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state (see Figures 10, 11 (D) (E), 26, 28, and 44).

A gaming machine with this configuration transitions to the count-triggered bonus gaming state not only in a non-bonus gaming state but also in a pattern-triggered bonus gaming state when the number of executed pattern changes reaches a specific number. This makes it possible to create a gaming machine that is more likely to demonstrate the above-mentioned gameplay characteristics than a configuration that does not transition to the count-triggered bonus gaming state during a pattern-triggered bonus gaming state.

Invention C7:
A gaming machine according to any one of Inventions C1 to C6,
The specific symbols include a jackpot symbol that triggers a special game advantageous to the player, and a special symbol (special losing symbol) different from the jackpot symbol,
The gaming machine is characterized in that the gaming state control means controls the gaming state to the pattern triggered bonus gaming state in response to the end of the special game when the jackpot symbol is stopped in the number of times triggered bonus gaming state, while continuing the number of times triggered bonus gaming state in response to the special symbol being stopped in the number of times triggered bonus gaming state (see Figures 11 (F) (G), 26, 27, and 44 (J) (K)).

With a gaming machine configured in this way, even if a special symbol is drawn during the count triggered bonus game state, the game will not transition to the pattern triggered bonus game state. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the game transitions to the pattern triggered bonus game state even when a special symbol is drawn during the count triggered bonus game state, it is easier to ensure the period of time during which the game is controlled to the count triggered bonus game state, and it is possible to enhance the significance of the count triggered bonus game state in the above-mentioned gameplay.

Invention D1:
A pattern changing means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the special pattern change) for changing and displaying a predetermined identification pattern (special pattern);
and a game state control means (a game control microcomputer 101 for performing processing related to the control of the game state) capable of controlling the number of times the pattern variation is executed in the bonus game state (time-shortened state) until the number of times reaches a predetermined upper limit (time-shortened number of times) in a bonus game state (time-shortened state) in which a game ball is more likely to enter the variable start port (second start port 12) than in a non-bonus game state (non-time-shortened state),
In the bonus game state,
A symbol-triggered bonus game state (a jackpot trigger time-saving state, a special miss trigger time-saving state) controlled based on the fact that the identification symbol has stopped at a specific symbol (a jackpot symbol, a special miss symbol);
A number-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortening state) controlled based on the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaching a specific number (ceiling number, for example, "300");
When the game machine is controlled to the pattern-triggered bonus game state (jackpot-triggered time-shortened state, special miss-triggered time-shortened state) based on the specific pattern being stopped in the non-bonus game state, the upper limit number of times can be set so that the pattern-triggered bonus game state continues until the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaches the specific number of times (see Figure 10).

With a gaming machine configured in this way, when a specific symbol stops in a non-bonus game state and the game enters a symbol-triggered bonus game state, the symbol-triggered bonus game state continues until the count-triggered bonus game state is entered, providing a new gaming experience. This can also increase the player's motivation to land a specific symbol in a non-bonus game state, thereby increasing the player's interest in the game.

Invention D2:
The gaming machine according to invention D1,
A gaming machine characterized in that the upper limit number of times is set to a larger value when the game is controlled to the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortening state) based on the specific pattern being stopped in the number of times triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortening state) than when the game is controlled to the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortening state, special miss trigger time-shortening state) based on the specific pattern being stopped in the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortening state, special miss trigger time-shortening state) before being controlled to the number of times triggered bonus game state (see Figures 8, 9 and 36).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, after a specific symbol has stopped in a non-bonus game state and control has been made to a symbol-triggered bonus game state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit a specific symbol once the number-triggered bonus game state has been reached than to hit a specific symbol during the symbol-triggered bonus game state, as the upper limit number of symbol changes in the bonus game state is set to a higher value, providing new gameplay features.

Invention D3:
A gaming machine according to invention D2,
When the game is controlled to the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered time-shortened state) based on the specific symbol being stopped in the number-of-times triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching triggered time-shortened state), the pattern triggered bonus game state continues until the number of times the symbol variation is executed reaches the specific number of times (see FIG. 11(F)).
When the game machine is controlled to the pattern-triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state) based on the specific pattern being stopped in the pattern-triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state) before being controlled to the number-of-times-triggered bonus game state, the pattern-triggered bonus game state may end before the number of times the pattern variation has been executed reaches the specific number (see Figures 11 (D) (E)).

With a gaming machine configured in this way, if a specific symbol is stopped in a non-benefit game state and the game is controlled to a symbol-triggered bonus game state, and then the game enters a count-triggered bonus game state, and the specific symbol is drawn, the symbol-triggered bonus game state based on that is confirmed to continue until the next count-triggered bonus game state. On the other hand, even if a specific symbol is drawn during the symbol-triggered bonus game state before the count-triggered bonus game state is reached, the symbol-triggered bonus game state based on that does not continue until the next count-triggered bonus game state and ends, providing new gameplay features.

Invention D4:
The gaming machine according to invention D1,
The specific symbols include a jackpot symbol that triggers a special game advantageous to the player, and a special symbol (special losing symbol) different from the jackpot symbol,
The symbol triggered bonus game state includes a jackpot triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered time-shortened state) based on the jackpot symbol being stopped, and a special symbol triggered bonus game state (special miss triggered time-shortened state) based on the special symbol being stopped,
When the game is controlled to the jackpot trigger bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) based on the jackpot symbol being stopped in the number-of-times-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reaching trigger time-shortened state), the jackpot trigger bonus game state continues until the number of times the symbol variation is executed reaches the specific number of times (see FIG. 11(F)),
When the game machine is controlled to the jackpot triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered time-shortened state) based on the jackpot pattern being stopped in the jackpot triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered time-shortened state) or the special pattern triggered bonus game state (special miss triggered time-shortened state) before being controlled to the number-of-times triggered bonus game state, the jackpot triggered bonus game state may end before the number of times the pattern variation has been executed reaches the specific number (see Figure 11 (D)).

With a gaming machine configured in this way, after a specific symbol (jackpot symbol, special symbol) is stopped in a non-bonus game state and control is established to a symbol-triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered bonus game state, special symbol triggered bonus game state), if a jackpot symbol is drawn in the count-triggered bonus game state, the jackpot triggered bonus game state based on that is determined to continue until the next count-triggered bonus game state. However, even if a jackpot symbol is drawn in the jackpot triggered bonus game state or special symbol triggered bonus game state before the count-triggered bonus game state is reached, the jackpot triggered bonus game state based on that does not continue until the next count-triggered bonus game state and ends, providing new gameplay features.

Invention D5:
The gaming machine according to invention D1,
A gaming machine characterized in that the upper limit number of times is set to a larger value when the game is controlled to the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state) based on the specific pattern being stopped in the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state) before being controlled to the count triggered bonus game state, than when the game is controlled to the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) based on the specific pattern being stopped in the count triggered bonus game state (ceiling reach trigger time-shortened state) (see Figures 42, 43, and 45).

A gaming machine with this configuration can provide new gameplay features in which, after a specific symbol has stopped in a non-bonus game state and control has been established to a symbol-triggered bonus game state, the player is more advantageous if they hit a specific symbol during the symbol-triggered bonus game state than if they hit a specific symbol once the number-triggered bonus game state has been reached, as the upper limit number of symbol changes in the bonus game state is set to a higher value.

Invention D6:
A gaming machine according to invention D5,
When the game is controlled to the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state) based on the specific pattern being stopped in the pattern triggered bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state, special miss trigger time-shortened state) before being controlled to the number-of-times triggered bonus game state, the pattern triggered bonus game state continues until the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaches the specific number of times (see FIG. 44 (H) (I)),
When the game machine is controlled to the pattern-triggered bonus game state based on the specific pattern being stopped in the number-of-times-triggered bonus game state, the pattern-triggered bonus game state may end before the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaches the specific number (see Figure 44 (J)).

With a gaming machine of this configuration, after a specific symbol is stopped in a non-benefit game state and control is established to a symbol-triggered bonus game state, if a specific symbol is drawn in that symbol-triggered bonus game state, the symbol-triggered bonus game state based on that is confirmed to continue until the next count-triggered bonus game state. However, even if a specific symbol is drawn after reaching the count-triggered bonus game state, the symbol-triggered bonus game state based on that does not continue until the next count-triggered bonus game state and ends, providing new gameplay features.

Invention D7:
The gaming machine according to invention D1,
The specific symbols include a jackpot symbol that triggers a special game advantageous to the player, and a special symbol (special losing symbol) different from the jackpot symbol,
The symbol triggered bonus game state includes a jackpot triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered time-shortened state) based on the jackpot symbol being stopped, and a special symbol triggered bonus game state (special miss triggered time-shortened state) based on the special symbol being stopped,
When the game is controlled to the jackpot trigger bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) based on the jackpot pattern being stopped in the jackpot trigger bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) or the special pattern trigger bonus game state (special miss trigger time-shortened state) before being controlled to the number-of-times trigger bonus game state, the jackpot trigger bonus game state continues until the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaches the specific number of times (see FIG. 44 (H)),
When the game machine is controlled to the jackpot trigger bonus game state (jackpot trigger time-shortened state) based on the jackpot pattern being stopped in the number-of-times-triggered bonus game state (ceiling-reach-trigger time-shortened state), the jackpot trigger bonus game state may end before the number of times the pattern variation is executed reaches the specific number (see Figure 44 (J)).

With a gaming machine configured in this way, after a specific symbol (jackpot symbol, special symbol) is stopped in a non-bonus game state and control is established to a symbol-triggered bonus game state (jackpot triggered bonus game state, special symbol triggered bonus game state), if a jackpot symbol is drawn during that jackpot triggered bonus game state or special symbol triggered bonus game state, the jackpot triggered bonus game state based on that is determined to continue until the next count triggered bonus game state. However, even if a jackpot symbol is drawn after the count triggered bonus game state is reached, the jackpot triggered bonus game state based on that does not continue until the next count triggered bonus game state and ends, providing new gameplay features.

In the past, pachinko gaming machines, which are an example of gaming machines, perform a jackpot determination to determine whether or not a jackpot has occurred, provided that a gaming ball has entered the starting opening, as described in JP 2018-88993 A, for example. When a jackpot determination is performed, a special symbol is displayed to indicate the result of the jackpot determination. If the special symbol display indicates that the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, a jackpot game (special game) advantageous to the player is executed. In the gaming machine described in JP 2018-88993 A, after a jackpot game is executed, the machine may enter a time-saving game state (bonus game state) in which a gaming ball is more likely to enter the variable start opening that can be opened and closed than in a non-time-saving game state. However, for gaming machines that can enter a game state in which a gaming ball is more likely to enter the variable start opening that can be opened and closed than in a non-time-saving game state, there is still room for improvement in order to increase gaming enjoyment.

The above-mentioned invention A differs from the gaming machine described in JP 2018-88993 A in that "the bonus gaming states include a pattern-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on a specific symbol stopping on an identification symbol, and a count-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on the number of times a specific symbol has been changed, and the upper limit of the number of times the symbol can change in the bonus gaming state differs between the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on a specific symbol stopping in the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state, and the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on a specific symbol stopping in the count-triggered bonus gaming state." This makes it possible for invention A to solve the problem of "enhancing the enjoyment of gaming" (achieve the effect of doing so).

Furthermore, the above-mentioned Invention B differs from the gaming machine described in JP 2018-88993 A in that "the bonus gaming state includes a specific bonus gaming state that is controlled in response to the completion of a special game, and a non-specific bonus gaming state that is controlled without going through a special game, and the upper limit of the number of symbol changes in the bonus gaming state differs between the specific bonus gaming state that is controlled based on the jackpot symbol stopping in the specific bonus gaming state and the specific bonus gaming state that is controlled based on the jackpot symbol stopping in the non-specific bonus gaming state." This makes it possible for Invention B to solve the problem of "enhancing the enjoyment of gaming" (achieve the effect of doing so).

Furthermore, the above-mentioned invention C differs from the gaming machine described in JP 2018-88993 A in that "the bonus gaming states include a pattern-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on an identification symbol stopping at a specific symbol, and a count-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on the number of times a pattern change has been executed reaching a specific number, and the upper limit number of pattern changes in the bonus gaming state can be set to a first value such that the number of pattern changes required from the end of the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state to the start of the next count-triggered bonus gaming state is a predetermined value in the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on a specific symbol stopping in the count-triggered bonus gaming state, while in the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on a specific symbol stopping in the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state, the upper limit number of pattern changes can be set to a second value such that the number of pattern changes required from the end of the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state to the start of the next count-triggered bonus gaming state is a value greater than the predetermined value." As a result, Invention C is able to solve the problem (achieve the effect of) "improving the enjoyment of games."

Furthermore, the above-mentioned Invention D differs from the gaming machine described in JP 2018-88993 A in that "the bonus gaming states include a pattern-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on the identification symbol stopping at a specific symbol, and a count-triggered bonus gaming state that is controlled based on the number of times the pattern fluctuation has been executed reaching a specific number, and when the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state is entered based on the stopping of a specific symbol in a non-bonus gaming state, an upper limit number can be set so that the pattern-triggered bonus gaming state will continue until the number of times the pattern fluctuation has been executed reaches the specific number." This makes it possible for Invention D to solve the problem of "enhancing the enjoyment of gaming" (achieve the effect of doing so).

PY1... Pachinko gaming machine 12... Second starting port (variable starting port)
101...Game control microcomputer

Claims (1)

a pattern changing means for changing a predetermined identification pattern;
a special game execution means for executing a special game advantageous to a player when the identification symbol is stopped as a jackpot symbol;
and a game state control means for controlling the number of times the symbol variation is executed in the special game state in which the game ball is likely to enter the variable start port until the number of times the symbol variation is executed in the special game state reaches a predetermined upper limit number.
In the bonus game state,
a first special game state controlled in response to the end of the special game;
a second bonus game state that is controlled without going through the special game based on the fact that the identification symbol has stopped at a predetermined symbol different from the jackpot symbol,
The game state control means
When the jackpot symbol is stopped in the first bonus game state, the game state can be controlled to the first bonus game state with a first number of times as the upper limit number of times;
When the jackpot symbol is stopped in the second bonus game state, the game state can be controlled to the first bonus game state, with a second number of times that is smaller than the first number of times as the upper limit number of times .
The first bonus game state includes a non-predetermined bonus game state and a predetermined bonus game state,
A gaming machine characterized in that, whether the jackpot symbol is stopped in the non-predetermined bonus game state or the jackpot symbol is stopped in the predetermined bonus game state, the upper limit number of times of the first bonus game state based on the stopping of the jackpot symbol is set to a value greater than the second number of times.