JP7755964B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Conventionally, as a gaming machine of this type, when a gaming ball enters a start area (start winning hole) provided in the gaming area, a lottery for a jackpot is held to determine whether or not a special game advantageous to the player can be executed, and a variable presentation mode for announcing the result of the jackpot lottery is determined, and the variable presentation is executed in the determined mode. In addition, in the variable presentation, a variable presentation of a presentation pattern having a number display portion in the shape of a number is generally performed, and the result of the jackpot lottery is announced by the stopped display mode of the presentation pattern.
In recent years, in order to enhance the presentation effect achieved by the changing display of the presentation pattern, a presentation pattern has been provided that is configured to display a predetermined character image in addition to the above-mentioned number display section, and the changing display is achieved by the presentation pattern (see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-000942

Although implementing the variable display of the above-mentioned presentation symbols can improve presentation effects and heighten player interest, in recent years, as presentations have become more diverse, there has been a demand for further improvements in presentation effects.

The present invention was conceived in light of the above-mentioned circumstances, and aims to provide a gaming machine capable of displaying variable symbols that create a novel impression and improve the presentation effect.

To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, the present invention is configured as follows:

(1) The present invention is a gaming machine capable of executing the variable display and the stop display of a plurality of performance symbols used in a variable display that suggests the result of a predetermined lottery, and capable of displaying a performance image corresponding to each performance symbol, wherein the plurality of performance symbols have a number display portion that is a number-shaped display area, the performance symbols are displayed variable in a predetermined manner, and can be displayed so as to be visible from a predetermined timing during the variable display, and the performance image is not displayed variable in the predetermined manner, and can be displayed so as to be visible from a timing different from the predetermined timing, and a stop display of any of the performance symbols is performed. Before the effect pattern is displayed, a predetermined action is displayed by the effect image in front of the effect pattern, and after the action display is performed, the effect image is displayed behind the effect pattern, and when the effect pattern is displayed in a stopped state, at least a part of the number display part of the effect pattern is displayed overlapping another effect image different from the effect image behind the other effect image, and then the number display part of the effect pattern is displayed in a reduced size so that the size of this overlapping part becomes smaller, and then the number display part of the effect pattern is displayed overlapping the other effect image in front of the other effect image.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, when any of the performance symbols is displayed in a stopped state, at least a part of the number display part of the performance symbol is displayed overlapping the performance image on the rear side of the performance image, and then this overlapping part is displayed in a reduced size, and then the number display part of the performance symbol is displayed overlapping the performance image on the front side of the performance image, so that the stopped display of the above-mentioned performance symbol gives a novel impression and makes it possible to improve the performance effect of the stopped display of the performance symbol.
Furthermore, since the number display portion of the above-mentioned performance pattern is displayed stopped and overlapping the above-mentioned performance image in front of the above-mentioned performance image, when the performance pattern is displayed stopped and overlapping the number display portion of the performance pattern, the player can reliably see the number display portion without it being obstructed by the above-mentioned performance image.

This invention provides a gaming machine that can display a variety of presentation symbols that create a novel impression and improve presentation effects.

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a pachinko machine. FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a pachinko machine with the front door open. FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the game board of a pachinko machine. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a random number determination table for determining a jackpot in a pachinko machine. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a winning symbol random number determination table for a pachinko machine. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a reach group determination random number judgment table for a pachinko machine. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for a pachinko machine. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for a pachinko machine. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a variation pattern lottery table for a pachinko machine. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a variable time determination table for a pachinko machine. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a special electric device operating table for a pachinko machine. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a game status setting table for a pachinko machine. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a random number determination table for determining a win in a pachinko machine. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a normal symbol variation pattern determination table for a pachinko machine. An explanatory diagram of the second start winning slot opening control table of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the main processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of timer interrupt processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing performed when a sensor detects something in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing performed when a gate is detected in the main control board of a pachinko machine. A flowchart showing an outline of the processing when the first start winning slot is detected in the main control board of a pachinko machine. A flowchart showing an outline of the processing when the second start winning port is detected in the main control board of a pachinko machine. This is a flowchart showing an outline of the special chart-related control processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special symbol variation start processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the variable presentation pattern determination process in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special symbol variation stop processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of post-stop processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special game control processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special game ending process in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the general map-related control processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the normal pattern variation start processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the normal pattern variation stop processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing after the normal symbol stops on the main control board of a pachinko machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of a movable piece control process in a main control board of a pachinko machine. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the variable presentation of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the first presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the first presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the second presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the second presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the second presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the second presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the third presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the third presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the third presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the third presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the third presentation mode of a pachinko machine. A figure showing an example of the manner in which the display of the changing presentation pattern is displayed in the third presentation mode of a pachinko machine.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.
(External configuration of pachinko machine P)
The gaming machine according to this embodiment is a pachinko machine P that uses gaming balls as a gaming medium. Although not shown in the figure, in an amusement parlor where the pachinko machines P are installed, multiple pachinko machines P are arranged side by side in an area where the gaming machines are installed called an island, and a gaming ball lending device for lending the gaming balls is installed adjacent to each pachinko machine P. Furthermore, each pachinko machine P is connected to a corresponding gaming ball lending device R.
The game ball lending device R can accept the insertion of banknotes and a storage medium (card) that stores the value information required for lending game balls. After inserting a banknote (or a card) into the game ball lending device R, a player can receive game balls from the game ball lending device R by performing a predetermined operation on the pachinko machine P.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment comprises a machine frame 1, which is a rectangular frame body fixed to the island and has a hollow portion (not shown), a main body frame 2, which is also a rectangular frame body with a hollow portion (not shown) attached to the machine frame 1 by a hinge mechanism (not shown) so that it can be opened and closed, and a front door 3, which is attached to the main body frame 2 by a hinge mechanism (not shown) so that it can be opened and closed, and has an opening (not shown) formed in the front.

As shown in Figure 2, a speaker serving as an audio output device 10 is provided in the lower left portion of the machine frame 1. A game board 11 that forms the game area 12 is housed in the hollow portion of the main body frame 2. The front door 3 is also provided with a transparent plate 4 that covers the opening, an upper tray 6 and a receiving tray 7 that are located below the transparent plate 4 and can receive game balls, an operating handle 5 attached to the right of the receiving tray 7 for operating the launch of game balls, and two speakers serving as audio output devices 10 attached to the upper left and right of the transparent plate 4, one each.

In this pachinko machine P, when the main frame 2 is closed against the machine casing 1 and the front door 3 is closed, the transparent plate 4 is positioned in front of the game board 11, with a gap between them. This makes it possible to view the game board 11 located behind through the transparent plate 4.

The upper tray 6 is also designed to guide game balls dispensed by the game ball dispensing device R and prize balls paid out from the pachinko machine P. The upper tray 6 is capable of holding a predetermined number of game balls, but when the upper tray 6 is full of game balls, any game balls subsequently dispensed or paid out are guided to the receiving tray 7. The bottom of the receiving tray 7 is also provided with a discharge hole for discharging the stored game balls, and an opening/closing plate that can open and close the discharge hole, although these are not specifically shown. Normally, the discharge hole is closed by the opening/closing plate, but by moving the opening/closing lever 8 (see Figure 1) attached integrally to the opening/closing plate horizontally, the opening/closing plate also moves in the same direction, opening the discharge hole. This allows the game balls to fall through the discharge hole and be discharged out of the receiving tray 7.

The operating handle 5 is also designed so that the player can rotate it in a predetermined direction. When the player rotates the operating handle 5, the game balls held in the upper tray 6 are sent to a launching device (not specifically shown), which then launches the game balls toward the play area 12 with a strength that corresponds to the rotation angle of the operating handle 5. The game balls launched in this manner are guided upward by a pair of rails 13a, 13b fixed to the game board 11, and reach the play area 12.

Here, the game area 12 is a portion of the space formed between the game board 11 and the transparent plate 4 when the main frame 2 and front door 3 are closed to the machine frame 1, which is partitioned into an approximately circular shape by a pair of rails 13a, 13b fixed to the game board 11, and is an area where game balls can flow down.
As shown in Figure 3, this play area 12 is composed of a first play area 12a, which is the area on the left side as seen from the player facing the pachinko machine P, and a second play area 12b, which is the area on the right side as seen from the player facing the pachinko machine P. The possibility of a game ball entering these two play areas 12 differs depending on the firing strength of the launching device. Specifically, when the firing strength of the launching device is less than a predetermined strength (a strength that prevents the game ball launched by the launching device from reaching the highest point in the play area 12), the game ball enters the first play area 12a. On the other hand, when the firing strength of the launching device is greater than or equal to a predetermined strength (a strength that allows the game ball launched by the launching device to reach the highest point in the play area 12), the game ball enters the second play area 12b.

Also, as shown in Figure 3, within this gaming area 12 are a windmill and numerous nails for causing the gaming balls to flow in an irregular direction, a general winning opening 14 through which gaming balls can enter, a first starting winning opening 15 and a second starting winning opening 16 as starting areas, a gate 20 through which gaming balls can pass, an attacker device 17 that activates when predetermined conditions are met, an outlet 19 that guides gaming balls out of the gaming area 12, and an effect display device 21 that acts as an effect device to produce effects as the game progresses.

As shown in Figure 3, the general winning opening 14 is located at the lower left side of the game area 12, and when a game ball enters the general winning opening 14, a predetermined number of prize balls (five in this embodiment) are paid out.
The number and location of the general winning slots 14 are not particularly limited.

As shown in Figure 3, the first start winning opening 15 is located slightly below the center of the game area 12. Game balls flowing down the first game area 12a can enter this first start winning opening 15, but game balls flowing down the second game area 12b are almost unable to enter. In contrast, the second start winning opening 16, as shown in Figure 3, is located to the right of the center of the game area 12 (i.e., within the second game area 12b). Game balls flowing down the second game area 12b can enter this second start winning opening 16, but game balls flowing down the first game area 12a are almost unable to enter.

3, the second start winning opening 16 is provided with a movable piece 16b (a normal electric device) that can be opened and closed. When the movable piece 16b is closed, the second start winning opening 16 is in a closed state, and it is impossible or difficult for a game ball to enter the second start winning opening 16. On the other hand, when the movable piece 16b is opened, the second start winning opening 16 is in an open state, and this movable piece 16b functions as a guide member that guides the game ball toward the second start winning opening 16, making it easier for the game ball to enter the second start winning opening 16.
Furthermore, the configuration of this movable piece 16b is not particularly limited, and may be configured, for example, as a pair of blade members that rotate left and right around an axis perpendicular to the game board 11 to open and close the second start winning opening 16, or as a lid member that rotates back and forth around a horizontal axis to open and close the second start winning opening 16, or as a shutter member that slides up and down to open and close the second start winning opening 16.
The installation locations of the first start winning opening 15 and the second start winning opening 16 are not particularly limited, and for example, the first start winning opening 15 and the second start winning opening 16 may be placed in a position that makes it easy for game balls flowing down either game area 12 (first game area 12a, second game area 12b) to enter.

When a game ball enters the first start winning slot 15 or the second start winning slot 16, a prize ball is paid out and a lottery is held to determine one special symbol from among a plurality of predetermined special symbols. Each special symbol is associated with various game benefits, and depending on the type of special symbol determined, the player can obtain game benefits such as the execution of a special game advantageous to the player or the setting of a predetermined game state.
The number of prize balls paid out based on the entry of a game ball into the first start winning opening 15 or the second start winning opening 16 is not particularly limited as long as it is one or more, and may be any number. Furthermore, the number of prize balls may be the same or different between the start winning opening with the movable piece 16b (second start winning opening 16) and the start winning opening without the movable piece 16b (first start winning opening 15).

As shown in Figure 3, the gate 20 is located above the second start winning opening 16. When a gaming ball passes through this gate 20, a lottery for a normal symbol, which will be described later, is held. If the result of the lottery is a winning one, the movable piece 16b located in the second start winning opening 16 is opened for a predetermined period of time.

3, the attacker device 17 is provided below the second start winning opening 16. This attacker device 17 includes a large winning opening 18 into which game balls can enter, and an opening/closing door 18b that opens and closes the large winning opening 18. Normally, the opening/closing door 18b is closed and the large winning opening 18 is closed, so game balls cannot enter the large winning opening 18. However, when the above-mentioned special game is played, the opening/closing door 18b opens, opening the large winning opening 18, and the opening/closing door 18b functions as a receiving member that guides game balls to the large winning opening 18, making it possible for game balls to enter the large winning opening 18.
When a game ball enters the big prize opening 18, a predetermined number of prize balls (15 in this embodiment) are paid out.
As shown in FIG. 3, game balls flowing down the second game area 12b can enter the big prize opening 18, but game balls flowing down the first game area 12a cannot enter the big prize opening 18.
In this way, game balls flowing down the first game area 12a can enter the first start winning opening 15, and game balls flowing down the second game area 12b can pass through the gate 20, enter the second start winning opening 16, and enter the large winning opening 18.

As shown in Figure 3, the outlet 19 is located at the bottom of the game area 12 and receives game balls that do not enter any of the general winning openings 14, first starting winning openings 15, second starting winning openings 16, or big winning openings 18. Game balls received by the outlet 19 are then guided to the back side of the game board 11 and collected.

As shown in Fig. 3, the effect display device 21 is provided in approximately the center of the play area 12. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, a liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 21. The effect display device 21 is provided with a display unit 21a for displaying images such as moving images and still images, and in addition to displaying a background image, the display unit 21a displays variable effect symbols 50 (dummy symbols), and the stopped display mode of each effect symbol 50 performs a variable effect that suggests to the player the result of the jackpot lottery, which will be described later.
The performance display device 21 is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, but may be, for example, a drum-type display device that displays various information using multiple drums with patterns on the outer periphery.

The pachinko machine P of this embodiment is equipped with, as a performance device, a performance display device 21, as well as a speaker as the above-mentioned audio output device 10, and a lamp (see Figure 1) as a performance lighting device 23 that produces performance by emitting light in various colors and lighting patterns.
In addition, a performance operation device 9 is provided in front of the upper tray 6, which can be operated by the player to progress or switch the performance that is executed during play or while waiting. In this embodiment, the performance operation device 9 is composed of an operation dial 9a, which is a circular ring-shaped frame that can be rotated, and an operation button 9b that is fitted into the operation dial 9a and can be pressed. When a predetermined performance is being executed on the performance display device 21, rotating the operation dial 9a or pressing the operation button 9b will progress the predetermined performance or switch to a different performance.
The effect operation device 9 is not limited to the operation dial 9a and the operation button 9b, but may be provided with a cross key or the like that allows input in the up, down, left, and right directions. In addition to providing the effect operation device 9 such as the operation dial 9a and the operation button 9b, the above-mentioned cross key may be provided separately.

In addition, as shown in Figure 3, in the lower right corner of the game board 11, outside the play area 12, there are provided a first special symbol display device 30, a second special symbol display device 31, a first special symbol reserved display device 38, a second special symbol reserved display device 39, a normal symbol display device 32, and a normal symbol reserved display device 33 as devices for displaying various game conditions.

As mentioned above, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment is electrically connected to the game ball lending device R, and operations on the game ball lending device R, such as lending game balls and ejecting cards, can be accepted by the pachinko machine P. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine P is provided with a value information display device 35 that displays value information (balance information) stored on the card, a ball lending button 36 that can be pressed, and a card return button 37 that can be pressed.

(Configuration of control means of pachinko machine P)
Next, the control means for controlling the game and presentation of the pachinko machine P will be described.
The above-mentioned control means is composed of various control boards, and specifically, as shown in Figure 4, it includes a main control board 100 that controls the basic game operations of the pachinko machine P, a launch/payout control board 200 that controls the launch of game balls and the payout of prize balls, a sub-control board 300 that controls various presentations, and a game ball lending control board 400 that relays operations to the game ball lending device R.

As shown in FIG. 4, the main control board 100 is connected to a launch/payout control board 200 and a sub-control board 300, and the launch/payout control board 200 is connected to a game ball lending control board 400.
Furthermore, the main control board 100 and the launch and payout control board 200 are connected to an external information terminal board 500 for outputting various information regarding the progress of the game to an external device outside the pachinko machine P (for example, to a hall computer in an amusement parlor, etc.).
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as described above, the launch and payout control board 200 controls both the launch of game balls and the payout of prize balls, but a board that controls the launch of game balls (launch control board) and a board that controls the payout of prize balls (payout control board) may be provided separately.

In addition, although not specifically shown, a power supply board is connected to each board provided in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment. This power supply board is equipped with a backup power supply, and if the voltage value of the power supplied to the pachinko machine P falls below a predetermined value, it determines that a power interruption has occurred and outputs a power interruption signal to the main control board 100.

The main control board 100 controls the games played on the pachinko machine P, and specifically controls the special game that starts when the game ball enters the first start winning port 15 or the second start winning port 16, and the regular game that starts when the game ball passes through the gate 20.
As shown in Figure 4, this main control board 100 is equipped with a main CPU 101 that performs various calculation processes, a main ROM 102 that stores control programs for progressing the game and data and tables necessary for the game, and a main RAM 103 that is used as a temporary storage area during calculation processes.
Based on signals from the various detection sensors and timers described below, the main CPU 101 reads out the control program stored in the main ROM 102 and performs arithmetic processing, as well as controls various devices connected to the main CPU 101 and sends commands to other boards based on the results of the arithmetic processing.

Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the main control board 100 is connected to a general prize opening detection sensor 14a that detects when a game ball enters the general prize opening 14, a first start prize opening detection sensor 15a that detects when a game ball enters the first start prize opening 15, a second start prize opening detection sensor 16a that detects when a game ball enters the second start prize opening 16, a special prize opening detection sensor 18a that detects when a game ball enters the special prize opening 18, a gate detection sensor 20a that detects when a game ball passes through the gate 20, and a fraud detection sensor 35 that detects magnetic fields and radio waves directed at the game board 11 and vibrations caused by shaking the game board 11, etc. The detection signals output from each of these detection sensors are input to the main control board 100.

Furthermore, the main control board 100 is connected to the following devices to be controlled: a start winning port solenoid 16c that drives the movable piece 16b of the second start winning port 16 to open and close; a large winning port solenoid 18c that drives the opening and closing door 18b of the large winning port 18 to open and close; a first special pattern display device 30; a second special pattern display device 31; a normal pattern display device 32; a first special pattern reserve display device 38; a second special pattern reserve display device 39; and a normal pattern reserve display device 33.
The main control board 100 drives each solenoid to control the opening and closing of the second start winning opening 16 and the large winning opening 18, and also controls the display of each display device.

Although not specifically shown, the firing and dispensing control board 200, like the main control board 100, is equipped with a CPU, ROM, and RAM, and is connected to the main control board 100 so as to enable bidirectional communication.

As shown in Figure 4, the launch/payout control board 200 is connected to devices for controlling the launch of game balls, including a touch sensor 5a that detects when a player touches the operating handle 5, an operating knob 5b that detects the operating angle (rotation angle) of the operating handle 5, a launch stop switch 5c that stops the launch of game balls, a ball feed solenoid 60 that sends game balls held in the upper tray 6 to a launching device (not shown), and a launch motor 61 that launches game balls. Control signals output from the touch sensor 5a, operating knob 5b, and launch stop switch 5c are input to the launch/payout control board 200.

When control signals from the touch sensor 5a and the operation volume 5b are input to the launch/payout control board 200, the ball feed solenoid 60 and the launch motor 61 are energized to launch the game balls. On the other hand, when a control signal from the launch stop switch 5c is input to the launch/payout control board 200, the ball feed solenoid 60 and the launch motor 61 are de-energized to stop the launch of the game balls.
In addition, a rotary solenoid may be used instead of the launch motor 61 as a device for launching the game ball.

As shown in FIG. 4, the launch payout control board 200 is also connected to devices for controlling the payout of game balls: a payout motor 62 that pays out game balls stored in a game ball storage section (not specifically shown) as prize balls, and a payout counting switch 63 that detects and counts the paid-out game balls. When the launch payout control board 200 receives a payout number command sent from the main control board 100, the launch payout control board 200 controls the payout motor 62 to pay out a predetermined number of game balls (prize balls) based on the payout number command. At this time, the number of paid-out game balls is counted by the payout counting switch 63, making it possible to determine whether the predetermined number of game balls (prize balls) have been paid out.

Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the shot/dispensing control board 200 is connected to a front door open detection sensor 3a that detects whether the front door 3 is open, and a tray full detection sensor 7a that detects whether the tray 7 is full.

When the front door open detection sensor 3a detects that the front door 3 is open, it outputs an open detection signal to the firing/dispensing control board 200. The open detection signal is output continuously while the front door 3 is open. When the open detection signal is input, the firing/dispensing control board 200 sends a door open command to the main control board 100. Conversely, when the input of the open detection signal stops, it determines that the front door 3 is closed and sends a door close command to the main control board 100.

The tray full detection sensor 7a is located at a predetermined position on the tray 7. When the tray 7 is filled with a predetermined amount of game balls to be paid out as prize balls, the stored game balls reach the predetermined position and a detection signal is output to the launch payout control board 200. While the stored game balls are at the predetermined position, the detection signal is continuously output to the launch payout control board 200. When the detection signal is continuously input for a predetermined period of time, the launch payout control board 200 determines that the tray 7 is full and sends a tray full command to the main control board 100. On the other hand, when the continuous input of the detection signal to the launch payout control board 200 ceases, it determines that the tray 7 is no longer full and sends a tray full reset command to the main control board 100.

In this embodiment, as described above, the launching and dispensing control board 200 is connected to a game ball lending control board 400 that relays operations to the game ball lending device R. In other words, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the launching and dispensing control board 200 is connected to the game ball lending device R via the game ball lending control board 400.
As shown in Figure 4, the launch and payout control board 200 is connected to a value information display device 35, a ball lending switch 36a that detects the pressing operation of the ball lending button 36, and a card return switch 37a that detects the pressing operation of the card return button 37 via a game ball lending control board 400.

When the ball lending button 36 is pressed, a detection signal output from the ball lending switch 36a is input to the launching and paying-out control board 200, which then transmits a lending request signal requesting the lending of game balls to the game ball lending device R. When the game ball lending device R receives the lending request signal, the game ball lending device R subtracts predetermined value information from the stored value information and controls the paying-out of the number of game balls corresponding to the subtracted value information.
When the card return button 37 is pressed, a detection signal output from the card return switch 37a is input to the launch/payout control board 200, and the launch/payout control board 200 transmits a return request signal requesting the return of the card to the game ball lending device R. When the game ball lending device R receives the return request signal, the game ball lending device R is controlled to dispense the card.

The sub-control board 300 controls the effects that are executed during play, standby, etc.
As shown in Figure 4, this sub-control board 300 is equipped with a sub-CPU 301 that performs various calculation processes, a sub-ROM 302 that stores control programs for executing performances, data and tables necessary for executing performances, and a sub-RAM 303 that is used as a temporary storage area during calculation processes, and is connected so as to enable one-way communication from the main control board 100 to the sub-control board 300.

In addition, based on commands sent from the main control board 100 and signals from the timer, the sub-CPU 301 reads out the control program stored in the sub-ROM 302 and performs arithmetic processing, and sends commands for executing performances to an image control board (not specifically shown) for controlling image display, an audio control board (not specifically shown) for controlling audio output, and an electric lighting control board (not specifically shown) for controlling the lighting on and off.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as described above, the audio control board and the lighting control board are provided separately, but it is also possible to provide a single board (audio and lighting control board) that combines the functions of these boards, and to use this board to control both audio output and lighting.

The sub-control board 300 is also connected to the performance display device 21 via an image control board, and to the audio output device 10 via an audio control board. The sub-control board 300 is also connected to the performance lighting device 23 via an illumination control board, as well as a rotation detection sensor 9c that detects the rotation of the operation dial 9a and a press detection sensor 9d that detects the press of the operation button 9b.

Although not specifically shown, the image control board is equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, VRAM, etc. The ROM of this image control board stores a large amount of image data for the performance symbols 50 displayed on the performance display device 21, backgrounds, and predetermined images used in various performances (for example, cut-in images and development performance images in variable performances). Then, based on commands sent from the sub-control board 300, the CPU controls the image display by the performance display device 21 by storing the image data read from the ROM in the VRAM.
For example, when a variable effect is executed, the sub-CPU 301 of the sub-control board 300 determines the execution mode of the variable effect (the type of effect pattern 50 to be stopped and displayed, the types of images to be displayed during the variable effect, etc.) according to the result of the lottery for a jackpot, executes the variable effect according to the execution mode determined, and transmits a command (hereinafter referred to as a variable effect execution command) to the image control board for stopping and displaying the effect pattern 50. Then, based on the variable effect execution command transmitted from the sub-control board 300, the CPU of the image control board reads out image data stored in the ROM of the image control board and stores it in VRAM, whereby an image based on the image data is reproduced and the variable effect is executed.
The image data described above may be stored in the sub-ROM 302 of the sub-control board 300, rather than in the ROM of the image control board. When various images are to be displayed on the performance display device 21, the sub-control board 300 may transmit corresponding image data to the image control board, and the received image data may be stored in VRAM, thereby controlling the image display by the performance display device 21.

Although not specifically shown, the audio control board includes a sound ROM, decoder, output interface, CPU, RAM, timer counter, etc. The sound ROM stores sound data for the audio and background music (hereinafter referred to as audio, etc.) output from the audio output device 10. When a command sent by the sub-CPU 301 of the sub-control board 300 is received, the decoder reads the sound data corresponding to the received command from the sound ROM and decodes it. This decoder has a predetermined number of channels (40 in this embodiment) for outputting audio, etc., and is capable of independently and simultaneously outputting a predetermined number of types of audio, etc. In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, each type of audio, etc. output in various effects is pre-assigned to a channel to be used to output that audio, etc. As a result, the audio, etc. is output via the pre-assigned channel. The decoded sound data in each channel of the decoder is then converted to analog data, and based on this analog data, the predetermined audio is output from the audio output device 10 via the output interface.

The illumination control board controls the illumination of the lighting device 23 based on commands from the sub-control board 300. Furthermore, when the illumination control board receives a rotation detection signal output from the rotation detection sensor 9c based on the rotation of the operation dial 9a, or a press detection signal output from the press detection sensor 9d based on the press of the operation button 9b, it sends a specified command to the sub-control board 300.

(Outline of Pachinko Machine P Game)
Next, the game in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment will be explained based on various tables stored in the main ROM 102.
As described above, in this form of pachinko machine P, the special game and the regular game proceed in parallel. In addition, as the game state when these two games proceed, either a low probability game state (so-called non-probability game state) or a high probability game state (so-called probability game state) is set as a game state that is a combination of either a non-time-saving game state or a time-saving game state.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, one of the following game states is set: a game state that combines a low-probability game state and a non-time-shortened game state (hereinafter referred to as the normal game state), a game state that combines a low-probability game state and a time-shortened game state (hereinafter referred to as the low-probability time-shortened game state), or a game state that combines a high-probability game state and a time-shortened game state (hereinafter referred to as the high-probability time-shortened game state).

Here, the low-probability gaming state is a gaming state in which the probability of winning a jackpot through a jackpot lottery, which will be described later, is set to a predetermined value. The high-probability gaming state is a gaming state in which the probability of winning a jackpot through a jackpot lottery is set to a higher value than in the low-probability gaming state. In other words, it is easier to win a jackpot through a jackpot lottery in the high-probability gaming state than in the low-probability gaming state.
Furthermore, the non-time-shortened game state is a game state in which the movable piece 16b is less likely to open (i.e., the second start winning port 16 is less likely to be in an open state), making it difficult for a game ball to enter the second start winning port 16. Furthermore, the time-shortened game state is a game state in which the movable piece 16b is more likely to open (i.e., the second start winning port 16 is more likely to be in an open state) than in the non-time-shortened game state, making it easier for a game ball to enter the second start winning port 16.
In addition, the normal game mode is set in the initial state immediately after shipping from the factory or after resetting.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, a lottery for a jackpot is held when a game ball that is launched by a launching device (not shown) and flows down the game area 12 enters the first start winning opening 15 or the second start winning opening 16. If a jackpot is won in this lottery, the big winning opening 18 is opened and a special game is executed in which the game ball can enter the big winning opening 18, and furthermore, the game state after the special game ends is set to a high probability time-saving game state or a low probability time-saving game state.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, game balls flowing down the first game area 12a can enter the first start winning opening 15. Game balls flowing down the second game area 12b can enter the big winning opening 18, pass through the gate 20, and enter the second start winning opening 16. During the normal game mode, the player is made to shoot the game ball toward the first game area 12a (a so-called left shot) so that the game ball will enter the first start winning opening 15, and during the high probability time-saving game mode, the low probability time-saving game mode, and the special game mode, the player is made to shoot the game ball toward the second game area 12b (a so-called right shot) so that the game ball will enter the big winning opening 18 or pass through the gate 20 and enter the second start winning opening 16.
Specifically, during a high probability time-saving game state, a low probability time-saving game state, and a special game state, the effect display device 21 displays a message instructing the player to shoot a game ball toward the second game area 12b, and when the normal game state is set, the effect display device 21 displays a message instructing the player to shoot a game ball toward the first game area 12a.

This jackpot lottery is conducted based on various random numbers obtained when a game ball enters the first start winning port 15 or the second start winning port 16, and various tables stored in the main ROM 102 for determining the random numbers.
Here, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment has, as random numbers used in the jackpot lottery, a jackpot determination random number used to determine a jackpot, a winning pattern random number used to determine the type of special pattern, as well as a variation mode number for determining the pattern of the above-mentioned variable presentation (hereinafter referred to as the variable presentation pattern), a reach group determination random number used to determine the variable pattern number, a reach mode determination random number and a variable pattern random number.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the random number for determining a jackpot is a hardware random number built into the main control board 100. This random number for determining a jackpot is updated according to a set rule, and the random number sequence is automatically changed each time the random number sequence completes one cycle, and the start value is changed each time the system is reset.
Furthermore, the random numbers used to determine the variable presentation pattern are not limited to the three types mentioned above; for example, other random numbers may be used in addition to these random numbers, or any one or more of these random numbers may be used.

When a game ball enters the first start winning port 15 or the second start winning port 16, a random number value is obtained for each of the above-mentioned random numbers, and each random number value is stored in a reserved memory area of the main RAM 103.
This reserved memory area is composed of a first reserved memory area for storing each random number value (hereinafter referred to as first special random number) obtained by the entry of a gaming ball into the first start winning port 15, and a second reserved memory area for storing each random number value (hereinafter referred to as second special random number) obtained by the entry of a gaming ball into the second start winning port 16. Each of these reserved memory areas is composed of a total of four memory units, from the first memory unit to the fourth memory unit, and is capable of storing a total of four sets of first special random numbers and a total of four sets of second special random numbers.

Furthermore, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a gaming ball enters the first start winning port 15, the first special symbol random number is stored in sequence, starting from the first memory section of the first reserved memory area. For example, if a gaming ball enters the first start winning port 15 when no first special symbol random number is stored in any memory section of the first reserved memory area, the first special symbol random number obtained in response to this is stored in the first memory section of the first reserved memory area. Furthermore, if a gaming ball enters the first start winning port 15 when the first special symbol random number is stored in the first memory section of the first reserved memory area, the first special symbol random number obtained in response to this is stored in the second memory section of the first reserved memory area. Furthermore, when the first special symbol random number is stored in the first memory section and the second memory section of the first reserved memory area, if a gaming ball enters the first start winning slot 15, the first special symbol random number acquired in response to this is stored in the third memory section of the first reserved memory area. Furthermore, when the first special symbol random number is stored in the first to third memory sections of the first reserved memory area, if a gaming ball enters the first start winning slot 15, the first special symbol random number acquired in response to this is stored in the fourth memory section of the first reserved memory area. Furthermore, when the first special symbol random number is stored in the first to fourth memory sections of the first reserved memory area, if a gaming ball enters the first start winning slot 15, the first special symbol random number associated with this ball entry is not stored.

Similarly, when a game ball enters the second start winning hole 16, the second special random number is stored in the second reserved memory area in order from the first memory section. The specific storage process is the same as the storage of the first special random number described above, so a description thereof will be omitted.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the number of sets of first special chart random numbers stored in the first reserve memory area (hereinafter referred to as the first special chart reserve number) is stored in a first special chart reserve number counter (not specifically shown), and the number of sets of second special chart random numbers stored in the second reserve memory area (hereinafter referred to as the second special chart reserve number) is stored in a second special chart reserve number counter (not specifically shown).
In this specification, as described above, the storage of the first special chart random number and the second special chart random number in the reserved memory area is also referred to as "reservation" or "reserved memory," and the first special chart reserved number and the second special chart reserved number are also simply referred to as "reserved number."

In addition, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment has tables related to the jackpot lottery, including a jackpot determination random number determination table 110, a winning pattern random number determination table 111, a reach group determination random number determination table 112, a reach mode determination random number determination table 113, and a variation pattern lottery table 114.
It should be noted that the tables for the lottery for the big win are not limited to these, and other tables may be provided as appropriate when it is necessary to make judgments or decisions based on random numbers.

The jackpot determination random number judgment table 110 is used to determine whether or not a jackpot has occurred, and as shown in Figures 5(a) and (b), it includes a low probability judgment table 110a that is referenced in a low probability game state, and a high probability judgment table 110b that is referenced in a high probability game state.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a gaming ball enters the first start winning slot 15 or the second start winning slot 16, one jackpot determination random number is obtained within a numerical range of 0 to 65535. Then, depending on the game state at the time of the jackpot lottery, either the low probability determination table 110a or the high probability determination table 110b is selected, and the jackpot lottery is held based on the obtained jackpot determination random number and the selected jackpot determination random number determination table 110.

As shown in Figure 5(a), according to the low probability determination table 110a, a jackpot determination random number between 1000 and 1219 is determined to be a jackpot, and any other jackpot determination random number (0 to 999, 1220 to 65535) is determined to be a miss. Therefore, the probability of winning a jackpot according to this low probability determination table 110a is approximately 1 in 297.9.

5(b), according to the high probability determination table 110b, a jackpot is determined when the jackpot determination random number is between 1000 and 2119, and a loss is determined when the jackpot determination random number is other than this (0 to 999, 2120 to 65535). Therefore, the probability of winning a jackpot in this high probability determination table 110b is approximately 1/58.5.
That is, the high probability determination table 110b is set so that the probability of winning a jackpot is approximately five times higher than that of the low probability determination table 110a.

The jackpot determination random numbers (1000-1219) that are determined to be jackpots in the low probability determination table 110a are set to be included in the jackpot determination random numbers (1000-2119) that are determined to be jackpots in the high probability determination table 110b. In other words, the jackpot determination random numbers that are determined to be jackpots in the low probability determination table 110a will also be determined to be jackpots in the high probability determination table 110b.

The winning symbol random number determination table 111 is used to determine the type of special symbol, and as shown in Figures 6(a) and (b), it includes a first start winning port determination table 111a which is referenced when a jackpot is won using the first special symbol random number, and a second start winning port determination table 111b which is referenced when a jackpot is won using the second special symbol random number.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a gaming ball enters the first start winning slot 15 or the second start winning slot 16, one winning symbol random number is obtained within a numerical range of 0 to 199. Then, when a jackpot is won by the above-mentioned jackpot lottery, either the first start winning slot determination table 111a or the second start winning slot determination table 111b is selected according to the start winning slot into which the gaming ball entered, and the type of special symbol is determined based on the obtained winning symbol random number and the selected winning symbol random number determination table 111.

In addition, the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment has four types of special symbols (X1, X2, X3, X4) that are determined in the event of a jackpot win (hereinafter referred to as jackpot symbols), and two types of special symbols (Y1, Y2) that are determined in the event of a loss (hereinafter referred to as loss symbols).

As shown in Figure 6(a), according to the first start winning slot determination table 111a, if the winning random number is between 0 and 79, special pattern X1 is determined, if the winning random number is between 80 and 109, special pattern X2 is determined, if the winning random number is between 110 and 129, special pattern X3 is determined, and if the winning random number is between 130 and 199, special pattern X4 is determined. In other words, in this first start winning slot determination table 111a, the probability of special pattern X1 being determined is 40%, the probability of special pattern X2 being determined is 15%, the probability of special pattern X3 being determined is 10%, and the probability of special pattern X4 being determined is 35%.

6(b), according to the second start winning port determination table 111b, the special symbol X1 is determined when the winning symbol random number is 0 to 89, the special symbol X2 is determined when the winning symbol random number is 90 to 129, and the special symbol X4 is determined when the winning symbol random number is 130 to 199. In other words, in this second start winning port determination table 111b, the probability that the special symbol X1 is determined is 45%, the probability that the special symbol X2 is determined is 20%, and the probability that the special symbol X4 is determined is 35%.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, a different jackpot pattern is determined in each winning pattern random number determination table 111, but the same jackpot pattern may be determined in any winning pattern random number determination table 111.

If the lottery for the jackpot based on the first special random number results in a loss, the above-mentioned lottery based on the winning random number is not conducted, and the special pattern Y1 is determined as the losing pattern.If the lottery for the jackpot based on the second special random number results in a loss, the above-mentioned lottery based on the winning random number is not conducted, and the special pattern Y2 is determined as the losing pattern.
That is, the winning symbol random number determination table 111 is referred to only when a jackpot is won, and is not referred to when a loss occurs.

The reach group determination random number judgment table 112, the reach mode determination random number judgment table 113, and the variation pattern lottery table 114 are tables used to determine the variation mode number and variation pattern number for determining the variation presentation pattern.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a special symbol is determined by the lottery for a jackpot as described above, a variation mode number and a variation pattern number for determining a variation presentation pattern are determined based on the result of the determination, and a variation mode command corresponding to the determined variation mode number and a variation pattern command corresponding to the determined variation pattern number are generated. The generated variation mode command and variation pattern command are then transmitted from the main control board 100 to the sub-control board 300, and the sub-control board 300 determines the specific form of the variation presentation suggesting the result of the lottery for a jackpot (for example, an image to be displayed on the display unit 21a of the presentation display device 21) based on the received variation mode command and variation pattern command. The variation mode command and variation pattern command are commands used to determine the variation time and form of the variation presentation.

The reach group determination random number judgment table 112 is used to determine the group to which the reach mode determination random number judgment table 113 used to determine the variation mode number and variation pattern number belongs. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss, the type of group is determined by the reach group determination random number and the reach group determination random number judgment table 112 as a preliminary step to determining the variation mode number and variation pattern number.
7(a) to 7(c), a plurality of reach group determination random number judgment tables 112 are provided for each game state, type of start winning slot, and number of reserved balls (number of reserved first special symbols, number of reserved second special symbols). Here, as shown in Figures 7(a) to 7(c), a reach group determination random number judgment table 112 that is selected when the game state is a non-time-saving game state and the result of the lottery for a jackpot based on a game ball entering the first start winning slot 15 is a miss, and a reach group determination random number judgment table 112 that is selected when the game state is a time-saving game state and the result of the lottery for a jackpot based on a game ball entering the second start winning slot 16 is a miss will be described, and a description of the other reach group determination random number judgment tables 112 will be omitted.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start winning slot 15 or the second start winning slot 16, one reach group determination random number within the numerical range of 0 to 10006 is obtained. If the above-mentioned jackpot lottery results in a loss, a reach group determination random number judgment table 112 is selected depending on the game status at the time of the jackpot lottery, the type of start winning slot, and the number of reserved balls, and the type of group is determined based on the obtained reach group determination random number and the selected reach group determination random number judgment table 112.

Specifically, when the game state is a non-time-saving game state and the result of the jackpot lottery based on the first special chart random number obtained by the game ball entering the first start winning port 15 is a miss, if the number of first special charts reserved at the time of the lottery is 0 or 1, the first judgment table 112a is selected, and if the number of first special charts reserved at the time of the lottery is 2 or more, the second judgment table 112b is selected (see Figures 7(a) and (b)).
Furthermore, when the game state is a time-saving game state and the result of the jackpot lottery based on the second special chart random number obtained by the game ball entering the second start winning port 16 is a miss, if the number of second special charts reserved at the time of the lottery is 0 to 3 (i.e., regardless of the number of second special charts reserved), the third judgment table 112c is selected (see Figure 7(c)).

As shown in Figure 7(a), according to the first judgment table 112a, if the reach group determination random number is 0 to 299, the "first group" is determined, if the reach group determination random number is 300 to 8999, the "second group" is determined, if the reach group determination random number is 9000 to 9899, the "fourth group" is determined, and if the reach group determination random number is 9900 to 10006, the "fifth group" is determined.
Also, as shown in Figure 7 (b), according to the second judgment table 112b, if the reach group determination random number is 0 to 8999, the "second group" is determined, if the reach group determination random number is 9000 to 9899, the "fourth group" is determined, and if the reach group determination random number is 9900 to 10006, the "fifth group" is determined.
Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7 (c), according to the third judgment table 112c, if the reach group determination random number is 0 to 7999, the "first group" is determined, if the reach group determination random number is 8000 to 8999, the "third group" is determined, and if the reach group determination random number is 9000 to 10006, the "fifth group" is determined.

Furthermore, if the result of the jackpot lottery is a jackpot, the reach mode determination random number judgment table 113 is determined without determining the group type. In other words, the reach group determination random number judgment table 112 is referenced only if the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss, and is not referenced if the result is a jackpot.

The reach mode determination random number judgment table 113 is used to determine the fluctuation mode number used to determine the fluctuation presentation pattern (variation presentation mode, fluctuation time), as well as to determine the fluctuation pattern lottery table 114 used to determine the fluctuation pattern number described below.
This reach mode determination random number judgment table 113 is roughly divided into a judgment table for loss to be referred to when the result of the lottery for the jackpot is loss, and a judgment table for big win to be referred to when the result of the lottery for the jackpot is big win.

In addition, multiple loss judgment tables are provided for each type of group determined as described above. Here, as shown in Figures 8(a) to (e), we will explain the first group judgment table 113a, which is referenced when the "first group" is determined, the second group judgment table 113b, which is referenced when the "second group" is determined, the third group judgment table 113c, which is referenced when the "third group" is determined, the fourth group judgment table 113d, which is referenced when the "fourth group" is determined, and the fifth group judgment table 113e, which is referenced when the "fifth group" is determined.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when a gaming ball enters the first start winning slot 15 or the second start winning slot 16, one reach mode determination random number within the numerical range of 0 to 2038 is obtained. Then, when a group is determined by the above-mentioned group type lottery, a loss determination table corresponding to this determined group type is selected, and a variation mode number and variation pattern lottery table 114 are determined based on the obtained reach mode determination random number and the selected loss determination table.

Specifically, for example, if the "first group" is determined by the lottery for group type described above, the first group judgment table 113a is selected; if the "second group" is determined, the second group judgment table 113b is selected; if the "third group" is determined, the third group judgment table 113c is selected; if the "fourth group" is determined, the fourth group judgment table 113d is selected; and if the "fifth group" is determined, the fifth group judgment table 113e is selected (see Figures 8(a) to (e)).

As shown in Figure 8(a), according to the judgment table 113a for the first group, if the reach mode determination random number is between 0 and 2038 (i.e., regardless of the value of the reach mode determination random number), a variation mode number of "00H" (alphanumeric characters with "H" at the end are written in hexadecimal; the same applies below) is determined, and the first variation table 114a is selected.
Also, as shown in Figure 8 (b), according to the judgment table 113b for the second group, when the reach mode determination random number is between 0 and 2038, the variation mode number "00H" is determined and the second variation table 114b is selected.
Also, as shown in Figure 8 (c), according to the judgment table 113c for the third group, when the reach mode determination random number is between 0 and 2038, the variation mode number "00H" is determined and the third variation table 114c is selected.
Also, as shown in Figure 8 (d), according to the judgment table 113d for the fourth group, when the reach mode determination random number is between 0 and 2038, the variation mode number "01H" is determined and the fourth variation table 114d is selected.
8(e), according to the fifth group determination table 113e, when the reach mode determination random number is between 0 and 1799, the variation mode number "02H" is determined and the fifth variation table 114e is selected. When the reach mode determination random number is between 1800 and 2038, the variation mode number "03H" is determined and the fifth variation table 114e is selected.

In addition, multiple jackpot determination tables are provided for each game state when a jackpot is won (i.e., when the jackpot is drawn) and each type of jackpot pattern determined when a jackpot is won.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 9(a) and (b), the following jackpot determination tables are provided: a first jackpot determination table 113f which is referenced when special patterns X1, X2, X3 or X4 are determined in the non-time-saving game state; and a second jackpot determination table 113g which is referenced when special patterns X1, X2, X3 or X4 are determined in the time-saving game state.

Then, when a jackpot is won and the type of special symbol is determined, a jackpot determination table corresponding to the determined type of special symbol and the game state at the time of the jackpot is selected, and similar to the determination based on the loss determination table described above, a variation mode number and variation pattern lottery table 114 are determined based on the obtained reach mode determination random number and the selected jackpot determination table.

Specifically, if a jackpot is won in non-time-limited play mode and special symbol X1, X2, X3, or X4 is determined, the first jackpot determination table 113f is selected; if a jackpot is won in time-limited play mode and special symbol X1, X2, X3, or X4 is determined, the second jackpot determination table 113g is selected (see Figures 9(a) and (b)).

9(a), according to the first jackpot determination table 113f, when the reach mode determination random number is 0 to 199, the variation mode number "A1H" is determined and the 30th variation table 114f is selected. Also, when the reach mode determination random number is 200 to 1299, the variation mode number "A2H" is determined and the 31st variation table 114g is selected. Also, when the reach mode determination random number is 1300 to 2038, the variation mode number "A3H" is determined and the 32nd variation table 114h is selected.
Also, as shown in Figure 9 (b), according to the second jackpot determination table 113g, when the reach mode determination random number is between 0 and 699, the fluctuation mode number "A2H" is determined and the 31st fluctuation table 114g is selected, and when the reach mode determination random number is between 700 and 2038, the fluctuation mode number "A3H" is determined and the 32nd fluctuation table 114h is selected.

As mentioned above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, a jackpot determination table is provided for each game state at the time of winning a jackpot and each type of jackpot symbol. However, taking into account the type of starting winning slot into which the gaming ball entered, a jackpot determination table may also be provided for each game state at the time of winning a jackpot, each type of starting winning slot, and each type of jackpot symbol.

The variation pattern lottery table 114 is provided for determining the variation pattern number used to determine the variation presentation pattern (variation presentation mode, variation time), and multiple tables are provided.
Here, as shown in Figures 10(a) to (h), we will explain the first variable table 114a, the second variable table 114b, the third variable table 114c, the fourth variable table 114d and the fifth variable table 114e, which are determined when the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss, and the 30th variable table 114f, the 31st variable table 114g and the 32nd variable table 114h, which are determined when the result of the jackpot lottery is a jackpot.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start winning hole 15 or the second start winning hole 16, one fluctuation pattern random number is acquired within the numerical range of 0 to 249. Then, a fluctuation pattern number is determined based on the acquired fluctuation pattern random number and the fluctuation pattern lottery table 114 determined together with the above-mentioned fluctuation mode number.
For example, as shown in Figure 10(a), according to the first fluctuation table 114a, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 249 (i.e., regardless of the value of the fluctuation pattern random number), the fluctuation pattern number "00H" is determined. Also, as shown in Figure 10(d), according to the fourth fluctuation table 114d, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 249, the fluctuation pattern number "05H" is determined.

10(g), according to the 31st fluctuation table 114g, the fluctuation pattern number "A6H" is determined when the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 249. Also, as shown in FIG. 10(h), according to the 32nd fluctuation table 114h, the fluctuation pattern number "A6H" is determined when the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 89, and the fluctuation pattern number "A7H" is determined when the fluctuation pattern random number is 90 to 249.
Similarly, other fluctuation pattern tables 114 also determine predetermined fluctuation pattern numbers corresponding to fluctuation pattern random numbers (see Figure 10).

In pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, a jackpot drawing is conducted as described above at the start of the variation (i.e., when the variable display of the special symbols described below begins (when the variation effect begins)), and when the jackpot drawing is conducted, a variation mode number and variation pattern number are determined based on the results of the jackpot drawing, the game status at the time of the jackpot drawing, and the number of reserved symbols (number of reserved first special symbols, number of reserved second special symbols), etc. As described above, the variation mode number and variation pattern number are used to determine the variation effect pattern, and the variation effect mode and variation time are determined by the variation mode number and variation pattern number. Here, in pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the variation effect is divided into a first half and a second half. The mode and variation time of the first half of the variation effect are determined by the variation mode number, and the mode and variation time of the second half of the variation effect are determined by the variation pattern number.

Next, we will explain the process of determining the variable time of the variable effects in special gameplay and the control of special gameplay.
The pachinko machine P of this embodiment is equipped with a variable time determination table 115, a special electric device operation table 116, and a game status setting table 117, etc., as tables for controlling the various processes and special games described above.

The variable time determination table 115 is used to determine the variable time of the variable performance.
The pachinko machine P of this embodiment is equipped with, as the fluctuation time determination table 115, a first fluctuation time determination table 115a in which the fluctuation time of the first half of the fluctuation performance corresponding to each fluctuation mode number (hereinafter referred to as the first half fluctuation time) is determined, and a second fluctuation time determination table 115b in which the fluctuation time of the second half of the fluctuation performance corresponding to each fluctuation pattern number (hereinafter referred to as the second half fluctuation time) is determined (see Figures 11 (a) and (b)).

Then, when the fluctuation mode number is determined, the corresponding first half fluctuation time is determined based on this determined fluctuation mode number and the first fluctuation time determination table 115a. Also, when the fluctuation pattern number is determined, the corresponding second half fluctuation time is determined based on this determined fluctuation pattern number and the second fluctuation time determination table 115b. The sum of the first half fluctuation time and the second half fluctuation time determined in this way corresponds to the entire fluctuation time of the fluctuation presentation that suggests the result of the jackpot lottery.
Furthermore, based on the determined variation time, the variation effect is performed on the effect display device 21, and the variation display of the special pattern is performed on the special pattern display device (first special pattern display device 30 or second special pattern display device 31). Specifically, if the starting winning slot into which the gaming ball entered is the first starting winning slot 15, the first special pattern display device 30 is displayed blinking for the determined variation time, and if the starting winning slot into which the gaming ball entered is the second starting winning slot 16, the second special pattern display device 31 is displayed blinking for the determined variation time. Then, after the variation time has elapsed, the determined special pattern is displayed stationary.

For example, if the determined fluctuation mode number is "02H" and the fluctuation pattern number is "06H", the first half fluctuation time of "15 seconds" is determined corresponding to the fluctuation mode number "02H", and the second half fluctuation time of "60 seconds" is determined corresponding to the fluctuation pattern number "06H". The sum of these "75 seconds (= 15 seconds + 60 seconds)" is the total fluctuation time of the fluctuation performance, that is, the time for the fluctuation display of the special pattern.
Also, if the determined fluctuation mode number is "A3H" and the fluctuation pattern number is "A7H", the first half fluctuation time of "30 seconds" is determined corresponding to the fluctuation mode number "A3H", and the second half fluctuation time of "120 seconds" is determined corresponding to the fluctuation pattern number "A7H". The sum of these values, "150 seconds (= 30 seconds + 120 seconds)", is the total fluctuation time of the fluctuation performance, that is, the time for the fluctuation display of the special pattern.

As shown in Figure 11(a), the fluctuation mode number "00H" is set to a first half fluctuation time of "0 seconds", and when this fluctuation mode number is determined, the first half of the fluctuation presentation is not executed, and only the second half of the fluctuation presentation is executed based on the determined fluctuation pattern number. Also, in the pachinko machine P of this form, the fluctuation mode number "00H" is determined only if the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss (see Figures 8 and 9), so when this fluctuation mode number is determined, a miss will always be displayed in the fluctuation presentation.

Furthermore, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as described above, when the variation mode number and variation pattern number are determined, a variation mode command corresponding to the determined variation mode number and a variation pattern command corresponding to the determined variation pattern number are generated and sent to the sub-control board 300. Then, in the sub-control board 300, the mode of the variation presentation is determined based on the received variation mode command and variation pattern command. Specifically, the mode of the first half of the variation presentation is determined based on the variation mode command, and the mode of the second half of the variation presentation is determined based on the variation pattern command.
Regarding the manner of the variable presentation, rather than determining the manner of the first half of the variable presentation based on the variable mode command and determining the manner of the second half of the variable presentation based on the variable pattern command, it is also possible to determine the manner of the first half of the variable presentation based on the variable pattern command and determine the manner of the second half of the variable presentation based on the variable mode command.
Furthermore, instead of dividing the variation presentation into a first half and a second half, it may be divided into more parts, and the manner of each part may be determined based on the variation mode command and the variation pattern command.
The mode of the variation effect may be determined based on not only the variation mode command and the variation pattern command but also other commands. Alternatively, the mode of the variation effect may be determined based on only either the variation mode command or the variation pattern command.

The special electric device activation table 116 controls the special game that is executed when a jackpot is won, and is referenced to activate the jackpot opening solenoid 18c during the special game. In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 12(a) to 12(c), the special electric device activation table 116 includes a first activation table 116a that is referenced when special symbol X1 is selected, a second activation table 116b that is referenced when special symbol X2 or X4 is selected, and a third activation table 116c that is referenced when special symbol X3 is selected.

Specifically, once the special symbol X1 is determined, a special game is executed by referencing the first operation table 116a, as shown in FIG. 12(a). According to this first operation table 116a, ten round games are executed, which end when either the special prize opening 18 is open for 29.0 seconds or ten game balls enter the special prize opening 18. Furthermore, during each round game, the special prize opening 18 is opened only once, and the time for which the special prize opening 18 is closed between round games (i.e., the interval time) is set to 2.0 seconds.

When the special symbol X2 or X4 is determined, a special game is executed by referring to the second operation table 116b, as shown in Fig. 12(b). According to this second operation table 116b, four round games are executed in the same manner as the first operation table 116a. Furthermore, the number of times the big prize opening 18 is opened and closed and the interval time during each round game are set to the same contents as the first operation table 116a.
Since the number of rounds of play executed during the special game is set as described above, the expected value of prize balls that can be won during the special game is greater when the special pattern X1 is determined than when the special pattern X2 or X4 is determined.

When the special symbol X3 is determined, a special game is executed by referring to the third operation table 116c, as shown in Fig. 12(c). According to this third operation table 116c, two round games are executed, which end when either the special prize opening 18 is open for 0.5 seconds or 10 game balls enter the special prize opening 18. During each round game, the special prize opening 18 is opened only once, and the interval time is set to 0.1 seconds.
In addition, in the special game based on the determination of the special symbol X3, the big prize opening 18 is only open for 0.5 seconds during each round of play, making it almost impossible to get a game ball into the opening during that round of play.

The game status setting table 117 is used to set the game status after the special game is completed when the special game is executed. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the game status after the special game is completed is determined by the type of special symbol determined by the jackpot lottery.
As shown in Figure 13, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment is provided with a game status setting table 117, which includes a first status setting table 117a that is referenced when special pattern X1, X2 or X3 is determined, and a second status setting table 117b that is referenced when special pattern X4 is determined.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 13(a), when the special symbol X1, X2, or X3 is determined, the game state after the special game ends is set to a high-probability game state and a time-saving game state.The number of times the high-probability game state continues (hereinafter referred to as the "high probability number") is set to 10,000, and the number of times the time-saving game state continues (hereinafter referred to as the "time-saving number") is also set to 10,000.In other words, after the special game that is executed when the special symbol X1, X2, or X3 is determined ends, the game state is set to a high-probability time-saving game state (transitions to the high-probability time-saving game state), and the high-probability time-saving game state continues until the result of the jackpot lottery is derived 10,000 times.
As mentioned above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the probability of winning a jackpot in the high-probability game state is approximately 1/58.6, so in effect, the high-probability time-saving game state will continue until another jackpot is won.

13(b), when the special symbol X4 is determined, the game state after the special game ends is set to a low-probability game state and simultaneously set to a time-saving game state. The number of time-saving times is then set to 100. In other words, after the special game that is executed when the special symbol X4 is determined ends, the game state is set to a low-probability time-saving game state, and the low-probability time-saving game state continues until the result of the jackpot lottery is derived 100 times.
Then, when the special game ends and the game state is set to a low-probability time-shortened game state, if no jackpot is won during the continuation of this game state and all 100 jackpot lottery results are losses, the time-shortened game state is changed to a non-time-shortened game state, and the game state is changed to a normal game state.

As mentioned above, when special symbol X3 is determined, two rounds of play are played during the special game, in which the large prize slot 18 is opened for 0.5 seconds, but this special game ends in an extremely short time. Furthermore, when special symbol X3 is determined, the effect display device 21 does not suggest a jackpot win using effect symbol 50 (described below) or perform an effect associated with the execution of a special game. This makes it difficult to grasp that a jackpot has been won and special symbol X3 has been determined, or that a special game will be executed based on the determination of special symbol X3. After the variable effect ends, the player is given the impression that they have suddenly entered a high-probability time-saving game state.

Next, the processing related to normal gameplay will be explained.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a game ball that is launched by a launching device (not shown) and flows down the game area 12 passes through the gate 20, a lottery for a normal symbol is held to determine whether or not to activate the movable piece 16b of the second start winning opening 16 and open the movable piece 16b. If the lottery for the normal symbol results in a win, the movable piece 16b opens and the second start winning opening 16 is opened, making it easier for the game ball to enter the second start winning opening 16.
The lottery for this normal symbol is conducted based on a winning determination random number obtained when the game ball passes through the gate 20, and a winning determination random number determination table 118 stored in the main ROM 102 for determining the random number.

When the gaming ball passes through gate 20, the above-mentioned winning determination random number is obtained, and the random number value is stored in the general map reserve memory area of main RAM 103, up to a maximum of four. Specifically, this general map reserve memory area is composed of a total of four memory units, from the first memory unit to the fourth memory unit, and the numbers are stored starting from the first memory unit in the order of passing through gate 20. Furthermore, if winning determination random numbers have already been stored in several memory units, the winning determination random number is stored in the memory unit with the smallest number among the empty memory units. Therefore, if four winning determination random numbers have already been stored in the general map reserve memory area, even if the gaming ball passes through gate 20, the winning determination random number related to this passage will not be stored in the general map reserve memory area.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the winning determination random number is a hardware random number built into the main control board 100. This winning determination random number is updated according to a set rule, and the random number sequence is automatically changed each time the random number sequence completes one cycle, and the start value is changed each time the system is reset.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the number of winning determination random numbers stored in the regular number reserve memory area (hereinafter referred to as the regular number reserve number) is stored in a regular number reserve number counter (not specifically shown).
In this specification, as described above, the storage of the winning determination random number in the general map reserve memory area is also referred to as "general map reserve."

In addition, the winning determination random number judgment table 118 is used to determine whether or not a winning has occurred by drawing a normal pattern, and as shown in Figures 14(a) and (b), it is equipped with a non-time-saving judgment table 118a which is referenced in a non-time-saving game state, and a time-saving judgment table 118b which is referenced in a time-saving game state.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a gaming ball passes through the gate 20, one winning determination random number within a numerical range of 0 to 65535 is obtained. If the gaming state at the time when the lottery for the normal symbol is performed is a non-time-shortened gaming state, the non-time-shortened judgment table 118a is selected, and the lottery for the normal symbol is performed based on the obtained winning determination random number and the selected non-time-shortened judgment table 118a. If the gaming state at the time when the lottery for the normal symbol is performed is a time-shortened gaming state, the time-shortened judgment table 118b is selected, and the lottery for the normal symbol is performed based on the obtained winning determination random number and the selected time-shortened judgment table 118b.

According to this non-time-shortening determination table 118a, a win is determined when the winning determination random number is 1, and a loss is determined when the winning determination random number is any other number (0, 2 to 65535). Therefore, the probability of winning in this non-time-shortening determination table 118a is 1/65536.
According to the time-saving determination table 118b, a win is determined when the winning determination random number is between 1 and 65000, and a loss is determined when the winning determination random number is other than this (0, 65001 to 65535). Therefore, the probability of winning in this time-saving determination table 118b is 65000/65536, or approximately 99/100.
If the regular pattern is drawn and a winning pattern is selected, the winning pattern will be determined, and if the regular pattern is drawn and a losing pattern is selected, the losing pattern will be determined.

The pachinko machine P of this embodiment also includes a normal symbol change pattern determination table 119 and a second start winning slot opening control table 120, which are tables related to the change of normal symbols and the opening and closing of the movable piece 16b.

The normal symbol variation pattern determination table 119 is used to determine the variation pattern of the normal symbol. Each normal symbol variation pattern is associated with a variation time of the normal symbol. Then, as described above, when a game ball passes through the gate 20 and a lottery for a normal symbol is performed, the variation pattern of the normal symbol (i.e., the variation time of the normal symbol) is determined based on this normal symbol variation pattern determination table 119.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 15, when the game state is not in the time-saving game state, the normal symbol variation time is determined to be 3 seconds, and when the game state is in the time-saving game state, the normal symbol variation time is determined to be 0.6 seconds. Once the normal symbol variation time is determined, the normal symbol display device 32 (see Fig. 3) flashes during this determined normal symbol variation time. When the normal symbol lottery results in a win and a winning symbol is determined, the normal symbol display device 32 lights up, and when the lottery results in a loss and a losing symbol is determined, the normal symbol display device 32 goes out.

In addition, the second start winning opening control table 120 is referenced to control the operation of the movable piece 16b provided in the second start winning opening 16.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the normal symbol display device 32 is lit, the movable piece 16b of the second start winning opening 16 opens and closes in a manner determined by the second start winning opening opening opening opening control table 120. Specifically, when the game state is not a time-saving game state, as shown in Fig. 16, the start winning opening solenoid 16c is energized for 0.2 seconds (= 0.2 seconds × 1 time), so the movable piece 16b of the second start winning opening 16 is opened for 0.2 seconds. Also, when the game state is a time-saving game state, as shown in Fig. 16, the start winning opening solenoid 16c is energized for 2.4 seconds (= 1.2 seconds × 2 times), so the movable piece 16b of the second start winning opening 16 is opened for a total of 2.4 seconds.

As described above, conditions for opening and closing the second start winning opening 16 are set for both the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state, and the contents of these conditions make it easier for game balls to enter the second start winning opening 16 in the time-saving game state than in the non-time-saving game state. In other words, in the time-saving game state, as long as game balls pass through the gate 20, regular symbol drawings are held one after another and the second start winning opening 16 is opened frequently, so players can have a chance to win a jackpot while minimizing the loss of game balls as the game progresses.

(Outline of processing in pachinko machine P)
Next, an overview of the processing executed by the main control board 100 as the special game, normal game, and bonus game described above progresses will be explained using a flowchart.
First, the main processing of the main control board 100 will be described.
When power is supplied from the power supply board, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 101, and the main CPU 101 executes the main processing shown in the flowchart of FIG.

In step 100, as an initialization process, the main CPU 101 reads a startup program from the main ROM 102 in response to power-on, initializes flags stored in the main RAM 103, and stores various commands to be sent to the sub-control board 300 in a performance transmission data storage area provided in the main RAM 103. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 101.
In step 101, the main CPU 101 updates the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number, which is referenced when updating the winning symbol random number. This initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number is used to determine the initial value of the winning symbol random number. In other words, the winning symbol random number is updated using the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number at the time the update is started as its initial value. Then, once this random number range has been completed, the update of the winning symbol random number continues using the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number at that time as its initial value. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 102.

In step 102, the main CPU 101 updates the reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variation pattern random number, which are random numbers used to determine the variation presentation pattern (hereinafter referred to as variation presentation random numbers). After the processing of step 102 is completed, the processing of steps 101 and 102 is repeatedly executed until a predetermined interrupt processing is performed.

Next, the timer interrupt process of the main control board 100 will be described.
A reset clock pulse generating circuit provided on the main control board 100 generates a clock pulse at a predetermined period (4 milliseconds in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment), thereby executing the timer interrupt processing shown in the flowchart of Figure 18.

In step 200, the main CPU 101 executes a timer update process for updating various timer counters. Then, the process proceeds to step 201.
In addition, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment uses a countdown timer, and the timer counter is decremented by one each time the timer interrupt process of the main control board 100 is executed, and the countdown stops when it reaches 0.
In step 201, the main CPU 101 updates the winning symbol random number. Specifically, the random number counter is updated by adding "1", and if the result of the addition exceeds the maximum value of the random number range, the random number counter is reset to "0", and if the random number counter has completed one cycle, the random number is updated from the value of the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number at that time. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 202.

In step 202, the main CPU 101 determines whether there is an input from the gate detection sensor 20a, the first start winning hole detection sensor 15a, or the second start winning hole detection sensor 16a, and executes a sensor detection process to perform a predetermined process based on the result.Then, the process proceeds to the next step 203.
In step 203, the main CPU 101 executes a special symbol-related control process for controlling the special symbol game and the special game. Then, the process proceeds to step 204.

In step 204, the main CPU 101 executes a general game-related control process for controlling the general game. Then, the process proceeds to step 205.
In step 205, the main CPU 101 executes error-related processing to control the occurrence and cancellation of various errors. Specifically, when the main control board 100 receives a door open command based on the opening of the front door 3 or a tray full command based on the full state of the tray 7, the main CPU 101 generates a corresponding error designation command (e.g., a door open designation command, a full state designation command, etc.) and stores (sets) it in the performance transmission data storage area. Furthermore, when the main control board 100 no longer receives the above-mentioned commands, the main CPU 101 generates a corresponding error cancellation designation command (e.g., a door close designation command, a full tank cancellation designation command, etc.) and stores it in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step, step 206.

In step 206, when detection signals from the general prize opening detection sensor 14a, the first start prize opening detection sensor 15a, the second start prize opening detection sensor 16a, and the special prize opening detection sensor 18a are input to the main CPU 101, the main CPU 101 updates the prize ball counters provided corresponding to each detection signal and sends a payout number designation command corresponding to each detection signal to the launch payout control board 200. When prize balls are paid out by the launch payout control board 200, a payout command is sent to the main control board 100 for each payout, and when the main CPU 101 receives this payout command, it decrements the prize ball counter. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 207.
In step 207, the main CPU 101 executes the creation of external information data for outputting the game status of the pachinko machine P to the outside of the pachinko machine P, start winning port solenoid data for opening and closing the movable piece 16b of the second start winning port 16, large winning port solenoid data for controlling the opening and closing of the large winning port 18, display data for various display devices (first special symbol display device 30, second special symbol display device 31, normal symbol display device 32, first special symbol reserve display device 38, second special symbol reserve display device 39, and normal symbol reserve display device 33), etc. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 208.

In step 208, the main CPU 101 executes output control processing, which performs port output to output signals for each data item created in step 207 above, and command transmission to transmit commands stored in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the timer interrupt processing of the main control board 100 is terminated.

Next, the sensor detection process in step 202 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 300, the main CPU 101 executes gate detection processing for drawing a regular symbol lottery based on the fact that the gaming ball has passed through the gate 20. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 301.
In step 301, the main CPU 101 executes a first start winning hole detection process for conducting a lottery for a jackpot based on the game ball entering the first start winning hole 15. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 302.

In step 302, the main CPU 101 executes second start winning hole detection processing to conduct a jackpot lottery based on the game ball entering the second start winning hole 16. Then, the sensor detection processing ends.

Next, the gate detection process in step 300 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 400, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not a detection signal has been input from the gate detection sensor 20a. If it is determined that a detection signal has not been input from the gate detection sensor 20a, the gate detection process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that a detection signal has been input from the gate detection sensor 20a, the process proceeds to the next step 401.
In step 401, the main CPU 101 determines whether the value of the normal map reserve counter (i.e., the current normal map reserve number) is less than "4". If it is determined that the value is not less than "4" (i.e., "4"), the gate detection processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the value is less than 4, the process proceeds to the next step 402.

In step 402, the main CPU 101 increments the value of the normal reserved number counter by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step 403.
In step 403, the main CPU 101 acquires the current winning determination random number and stores it in the general map reserve memory area, and ends the gate detection processing.

Next, the processing when the first start winning slot is detected in step 301 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 21.
In step 500, the main CPU 101 determines whether a detection signal has been input from the first start winning hole detection sensor 15a. If it is determined that a detection signal has not been input from the first start winning hole detection sensor 15a, the first start winning hole detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that a detection signal has been input from the first start winning hole detection sensor 15a, the process proceeds to the next step 501.
In step 501, the main CPU 101 determines whether the value of the first special symbol reserved number counter (i.e., the current number of first special symbols reserved) is less than "4". If it is determined that the value is not less than "4" (i.e., "4"), it ends the first start winning slot detection process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the value is less than "4", it proceeds to the next step 502.

In step 502, the main CPU 101 increments the value of the first special symbol reserved number counter by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step 503.
In step 503, the main CPU 101 acquires a jackpot determination random number and stores it in the memory section of the first reserved memory area. Then, the process proceeds to step 504.

In step 504, the main CPU 101 acquires the winning symbol random number updated in the above-mentioned step 201 and stores it in the memory section of the first reserved memory area where the jackpot determination random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 503. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 505.
In step 505, the main CPU 101 acquires the reach group determination random number updated in the above-mentioned step 102, and stores it in the memory section of the first reserved memory area where the jackpot determination random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 503. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 506.

In step 506, the main CPU 101 acquires the reach mode determination random number updated in the above-mentioned step 102, and stores it in the memory section of the first reserved memory area where the jackpot determination random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 503. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 507.
In step 507, the main CPU 101 acquires the variation pattern random number updated in the above-mentioned step 102 and stores it in the memory section of the first reserved memory area where the jackpot determination random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 503. As a result, the acquired jackpot determination random number, winning symbol random number, reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variation pattern random number are all stored in the memory section of the same first reserved memory area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 508.

In step 508, the main CPU 101 generates a start winning command indicating that the first special symbol random number has been stored and stores it in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, processing upon detection of the first start winning slot is terminated.

Next, the processing when the second start winning slot is detected in step 302 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 22.
In step 600, the main CPU 101 determines whether a detection signal has been input from the second start winning hole detection sensor 16a. If it is determined that a detection signal has not been input from the second start winning hole detection sensor 16a, the second start winning hole detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that a detection signal has been input from the second start winning hole detection sensor 16a, the process proceeds to the next step 601.
In step 601, the main CPU 101 determines whether the value of the second special symbol reserved number counter (i.e., the current number of second special symbol reserved numbers) is less than "4". If it is determined that the value is not less than "4" (i.e., "4"), the second start winning slot detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the value is less than "4", the process proceeds to the next step 602.

In step 602, the main CPU 101 increments the value of the second special symbol reserved number counter by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step 603.
In step 603, the main CPU 101 acquires a jackpot determination random number and stores it in the memory section of the second reserved memory area. Then, the process proceeds to step 604.

In step 604, the main CPU 101 acquires the winning symbol random number updated in the above-mentioned step 201 and stores it in the memory section of the second reserved memory area where the jackpot determination random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 603. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 605.
In step 605, the main CPU 101 acquires the reach group determination random number updated in the above-mentioned step 102, and stores it in the memory section of the second reserved memory area where the jackpot determination random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 603. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 606.

In step 606, the main CPU 101 acquires the reach mode determination random number updated in the above-mentioned step 102, and stores it in the memory section of the second reserved memory area where the jackpot determination random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 603. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 607.
In step 607, the main CPU 101 acquires the variation pattern random number updated in the above-mentioned step 102 and stores it in the memory section of the second reserved memory area where the jackpot determination random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 603. As a result, the acquired jackpot determination random number, winning symbol random number, reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variation pattern random number are all stored in the memory section of the same second reserved memory area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 608.

In step 608, the main CPU 101 generates a start winning command indicating that the second special random number has been stored, stores it in the performance transmission data storage area, and terminates the processing when the second start winning slot is detected.

Next, the special drawing related control processing in step 203 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 700, the main CPU 101 loads the value of the execution phase data. This execution phase data indicates which of the multiple function modules (subroutines) constituting the special symbol-related control process will be executed. Specifically, this execution phase data includes data "00" indicating the execution of a special symbol variation start process (described later), data "01" indicating the execution of a special symbol variation stop process (described later), data "02" indicating the execution of a post-stop process (described later), data "03" indicating the execution of a special game control process (described later), and data "04" indicating the execution of a special game end process (described later).
Then, the main CPU 101 executes any one of the following processes based on the value of the execution phase data loaded in the above-mentioned step 700: special symbol variation start process (step 701), special symbol variation stop process (step 702), post-stop process (step 703), special game control process (step 704), or special game end process (step 705). Then, the special symbol-related control process is terminated.

Next, the special symbol variation start process in step 701 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 800, the main CPU 101 determines whether the execution phase data is "00", which indicates the execution of the special symbol variation start process. If it is determined that the execution phase data is not "00", the special symbol variation start process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the execution phase data is "00", the process proceeds to the next step 801.
In step 801, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not a second special symbol random number is stored in the memory section of the second reserved memory area, i.e., whether or not the second special symbol reserved number counter is equal to or greater than "1." If it is determined that a second special symbol random number is stored, the process proceeds to step 804. On the other hand, if it is determined that a second special symbol random number is not stored, the process proceeds to the next step 802.

In step 802, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the first special symbol random number is stored in the memory section of the first reserved memory area, that is, whether or not the first special symbol reserved number counter is equal to or greater than "1." If it is determined that the first special symbol random number is not stored, the process proceeds to step 811. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first special symbol random number is stored, the process proceeds to the next step 803.
In step 803, the main CPU 101 decrements the value of the first special symbol reserved number counter by "1" and executes a shift process for the first reserved memory area. Specifically, the random numbers stored in the first memory section of the first reserved memory area are stored in a predetermined processing area provided in the main RAM 103, and the random numbers stored in the second to fourth memory sections of the first reserved memory area are shifted to the memory section with the next smaller number. As a result, the random numbers stored in the first reserved memory area are used in the jackpot determination process described below in a so-called first-in, first-out (FIFO) order. Then, the process proceeds to step 805.

In step 804, which is executed when it is determined in step 801 that a second special symbol random number has been stored, the main CPU 101 decrements the value of the second special symbol reserved number counter by "1" and executes a shift process for the second reserved memory area. Specifically, the random numbers stored in the first memory section of the second reserved memory area are stored in a predetermined processing area provided in the main RAM 103, and the random numbers stored in the second to fourth memory sections of the second reserved memory area are shifted to the memory section with the next smaller number. As a result, the random numbers stored in the second reserved memory area are used in the jackpot determination process described below in a so-called first-in, first-out (FIFO) order. Then, the process proceeds to step 805.
In step 805, the main CPU 101 acquires one of the jackpot determination random number judgment tables 110 that corresponds to the current gaming state, and executes a jackpot determination process to derive the result of the jackpot lottery based on the acquired table and the jackpot determination random number stored in the predetermined processing area in step 803 or step 804. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 806.

In step 806, the main CPU 101 executes a special symbol determination process for determining the type of special symbol. Specifically, if the result of the lottery in the above-mentioned step 805 is a jackpot, the main CPU 101 checks which start winning slot the game ball entered (i.e., the first start winning slot 15 or the second start winning slot 16) to determine the jackpot determination random number used in the lottery determination, and then obtains the corresponding winning symbol random number determination table 111, and determines the type of special symbol based on the obtained table and the winning symbol random number stored in the predetermined processing area in the above-mentioned step 803 or step 804. On the other hand, if the result of the lottery in the above-mentioned step 805 is a loss, if the jackpot determination random number used in judging the lottery is a result of a gaming ball entering the first start winning slot 15, a special symbol Y1 is determined, and if the jackpot determination random number used in judging the lottery is a result of a gaming ball entering the second start winning slot 16, a special symbol Y2 is determined. Then, data corresponding to the determined special symbol is stored in a predetermined temporary storage area of the main RAM 103. Also, in this special symbol determination process, the current game status, i.e., the game status at the time the special symbol was determined, is stored in the game status buffer. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 807.
In addition, in the special pattern variation start processing of the pachinko machine P in this embodiment, if both the first special pattern random number and the second special pattern random number are stored, the second special pattern random number is processed in priority to the first special pattern random number, but this is not limited to this, and the numbers may be processed in the order in which they are stored in the reserved memory area.

In step 807, the main CPU 101 stores in the performance transmission data storage area a symbol determination command indicating the type of special symbol determined in the above-mentioned step 806. As a result, information regarding the determined type of special symbol is transmitted to the sub-control board 300 at the start of fluctuation. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 808.
In step 808, the main CPU 101 executes a variable effect pattern determination process for determining a variable effect pattern based on the reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variable pattern random number stored in the predetermined processing area in the above-mentioned step 803 or step 804. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 809.

In step 809, the main CPU 101 sets variable display data for starting the variable display of the special symbol on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31. As a result, when the variable display of the special symbol is performed based on the first special symbol random number, the first special symbol display device 30 starts a blinking display, and when the variable display of the special symbol is performed based on the second special symbol random number, the second special symbol display device 31 starts a blinking display. Here, the blinking display means that a "-" blinks at a predetermined interval on each display device.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the first special symbol random number is stored in the first reserved memory area, the first special symbol reserved display device 38 is displayed in a manner that allows the first special symbol reserved number to be recognized, and when the second special symbol random number is stored in the second reserved memory area, the second special symbol reserved display device 39 is displayed in a manner that allows the second special symbol reserved number to be recognized. When the above-mentioned special symbol variable display is performed based on the first special symbol random number, the first special symbol reserved display device 38 is displayed and controlled to indicate that the first special symbol reserved number is reduced by one simultaneously with the start of the variable display, and when the above-mentioned special symbol variable display is performed based on the second special symbol random number, the second special symbol reserved display device 39 is displayed and controlled to indicate that the second special symbol reserved number is reduced by one simultaneously with the start of the variable display.
Then, proceed to the next step 810.

In step 810, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "01" so that the special symbol variation stop processing is executed in the special symbol related control processing, and ends the special symbol variation start processing.
Furthermore, in step 811, which is reached when it is determined in the above-mentioned step 802 that the first special symbol random number is not stored in the first reserved memory area, the main CPU 101 executes a demo determination process for performing a demo display on the performance display device 21 based on the fact that a variable display is not being performed. Specifically, the main CPU 101 counts the time during which a variable display of the special symbol is not being performed, and when a predetermined demo start time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed without a variable display of the special symbol being performed, it stores a demo command for displaying a demo screen on the performance display device 21 in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the special variable start process is terminated.

Next, the variable presentation pattern determination process in step 808 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 900, the main CPU 101 determines whether the special symbol determined in step 806 is a jackpot symbol. If it is determined that the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol (i.e., a losing symbol), the process proceeds to step 903. On the other hand, if it is determined that the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the process proceeds to the next step 901.
In step 901, the main CPU 101 checks the jackpot symbol determined in step 806 and the current game status.

In step 902, the main CPU 101 acquires the corresponding reach mode determination random number judgment table 113 (jackpot judgment table) based on the jackpot symbol and the game status confirmed in step 901. Then, the process proceeds to step 907.
In step 903, which is reached when it is determined in step 900 that the symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the main CPU 101 checks the type of starting winning slot related to the lottery judgment (i.e., which starting winning slot the jackpot determining random number used in the lottery judgment was obtained by the ball entering), and also checks the current game status and the current reserved number (number of reserved first special symbols, number of reserved second special symbols).Then, the process proceeds to the next step 904.

In step 904, the main CPU 101 acquires the corresponding reach group determination random number judgment table 112 based on the type of start winning slot, the game status, and the number of reserved balls confirmed in the above-mentioned step 903. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 905.
In step 905, the main CPU 101 determines the type of group based on the reach group determination random number stored in the predetermined processing area in step 803 or step 804 and the reach group determination random number judgment table 112 selected in step 904, and stores the group type in the predetermined processing area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 906.

In step 906, the main CPU 101 acquires the reach mode determination random number determination table 113 (loss determination table) based on the type of group determined in the above-mentioned step 905. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 907.
In step 907, the main CPU 101 determines the fluctuation mode number and fluctuation pattern lottery table 114 based on the reach mode determination random number determination table 113 (jackpot determination table) acquired in the above-mentioned step 902 or the reach mode determination random number determination table 113 (loss determination table) acquired in the above-mentioned step 906, and the reach mode determination random number stored in the predetermined processing area in the above-mentioned step 803 or step 804, and stores this determined fluctuation mode number in a predetermined temporary storage area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 908.

In step 908, the main CPU 101 acquires the variation pattern lottery table 114 determined in the above-mentioned step 907. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 909.
In step 909, the main CPU 101 determines a variation pattern number based on the variation pattern lottery table 114 obtained in the above-mentioned step 908 and the variation pattern random number stored in a predetermined processing area in the above-mentioned step 803 or step 804, and stores this determined variation pattern number in a predetermined temporary storage area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 910.

In step 910, the main CPU 101 determines the fluctuation time based on the fluctuation time determination table 115 and the fluctuation mode number and fluctuation pattern number stored in a predetermined temporary storage area. The main CPU 101 also sets this determined fluctuation time in the fluctuation time timer counter. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 911.
In step 911, the main CPU 101 generates a fluctuation mode command based on the fluctuation mode number stored in a predetermined temporary storage area, and generates a fluctuation pattern command based on the fluctuation pattern number stored in the predetermined temporary storage area. Furthermore, the main CPU 101 stores the generated fluctuation mode command and fluctuation pattern command in the transmission data storage area for performance. Then, the fluctuation performance pattern determination process is terminated.

Next, the special symbol variation stop processing in step 702 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1000, the main CPU 101 determines whether the execution phase data is "01", which indicates the execution of the special symbol variation stop process. If it is determined that the execution phase data is not "01", the special symbol variation stop process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the execution phase data is "01", the process proceeds to the next step 1001.

In step 1001, the main CPU 101 determines whether the variable time set in the variable time timer counter in step 910 has elapsed. If it determines that the variable time has not elapsed, the special symbol variation stop process is terminated. On the other hand, if it determines that the variable time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1002.
In step 1002, the main CPU 101 sets the stop display data for displaying the special symbol determined in step 806 on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, and executes the stop display of the special symbol. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1003.

In step 1003, the main CPU 101 stores a symbol determination command indicating that the special symbol has been determined in the effect transmission data storage area.
In step 1004, the main CPU 101 sets the stop display time for the special symbols to be displayed in a stop display time timer counter.

In step 1005, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "02" so that post-stop processing is executed in the special symbol-related control processing. Then, the special symbol variation stop processing is terminated.

Next, the post-stop processing in step 703 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1100, the main CPU 101 determines whether the execution phase data is "02," which indicates the execution of post-stop processing. If it is determined that the execution phase data is not "02," the post-stop processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the execution phase data is "02," the process proceeds to the next step 1101.
In step 1101, the main CPU 101 determines whether the stop display time set in the stop display time timer counter in step 1004 has elapsed. If it is determined that the stop display time has not elapsed, the post-stop processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the stop display time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1102.

In step 1102, the main CPU 101 stores the current game status in the game status buffer. Then, the process proceeds to step 1103.
In step 1103, the main CPU 101 executes a time-shortening count update process. Specifically, the main CPU 101 determines whether a time-shortening game flag, which indicates that the current game state is a time-shortening game state, is on. If it is determined that the time-shortening game flag is on, the main CPU 101 updates a time-shortening count storage area provided in the main RAM 103. This time-shortening count storage area stores the number of fluctuations remaining until the time-shortening game state ends. The stored remaining fluctuations are then decremented by "1." Furthermore, if the remaining fluctuations become "0" after updating the remaining fluctuations, the main CPU 101 also executes a process to turn off the time-shortening game flag. Furthermore, if it is determined that the time-shortening game flag is not on, the main CPU 101 does not execute any process. The process then proceeds to the next step 1104.

In step 1104, the main CPU 101 performs a high-probability count update process. Here, the main CPU 101 determines whether a high-probability game flag, which indicates that the current game state is a high-probability game state, is on. If it is determined that the high-probability game flag is on, the main CPU 101 updates a high-probability count storage area provided in the main RAM 103. This high-probability count storage area stores the number of remaining variations until the high-probability game state ends. The stored remaining number of variations is then decremented by "1." Furthermore, if the remaining number of variations becomes "0" after updating the remaining number of variations, the main CPU 101 also executes a process to turn off the high-probability game flag. Furthermore, if it is determined that the high-probability game flag is not on, the main CPU 101 does not perform any processing. The process then proceeds to the next step 1105.
In step 1105, the main CPU 101 determines whether the stopped special symbol is a jackpot symbol. If it determines that the stopped special symbol is not a jackpot symbol (i.e., a losing symbol), the process proceeds to step 1111. On the other hand, if it determines that the stopped special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the process proceeds to the next step 1106.

In step 1106, the main CPU 101 sets a command for transmitting the game status at the time of winning the jackpot and the type of the jackpot symbol (special symbol X1, X2, X3, or X4) that has stopped and been displayed to the sub-control board 300. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1107.
In step 1107, the main CPU 101 resets the current game state, and then proceeds to step 1108.

In step 1108, the main CPU 101 sets the opening time, which is the waiting time set at the start of the special game, in the opening time timer counter, and stores an opening command indicating that the opening process will start in the effect transmission data storage area.Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1109.
In step 1109, the main CPU 101 sets the number of rounds in the main RAM 103 based on the type of jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed. Specifically, if the jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed is the special symbol X1, the main CPU 101 sets the number of rounds to "10," if the jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed is the special symbol X2 or X4, the main CPU 101 sets the number of rounds to "4," and if the jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed is the special symbol X3, the main CPU 101 sets the number of rounds to "2." Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1110.

In step 1110, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "03" so that the special game control process is executed in the special symbol-related control process. Then, the post-stop process is terminated.
In step 1111, which is reached when it is determined in step 1105 that the special symbol stopped and displayed is not a jackpot symbol, the main CPU 101 checks the current game status and stores a game status command in the performance transmission data storage area to transmit the game status and the type of the losing symbol (special symbol Y1 or Y2) stopped and displayed to the sub-control board 300. Then, the process proceeds to step 1112.

In step 1112, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "00" so that the special symbol variation start process is executed in the special symbol-related control process. Then, the post-stop process is terminated.

Next, the special game control process in step 704 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 1200, the main CPU 101 determines whether the execution phase data is "03," which indicates the execution of the special game control process. If it is determined that the execution phase data is not "03," the special game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the execution phase data is "03," the process proceeds to the next step 1201.
In step 1201, the main CPU 101 determines whether the opening time set in the opening time timer counter in step 1108 has elapsed. If it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed, the special game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the opening time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1202.

In step 1202, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the special game control process is currently in the ending process, which is a standby process that is performed after all rounds of play have been completed. If it is determined that the ending process is currently in progress, the process proceeds to step 1210. On the other hand, if it is determined that the ending process is not currently in progress, the process proceeds to the next step 1203.
In step 1203, the main CPU 101 executes a special winning opening opening/closing control process for opening and closing the special winning opening 18 based on the special electric device operation table 116 corresponding to the type of the jackpot symbol that has been stopped and displayed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1204.

In step 1204, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not a round of play has started based on the control of opening and closing the large prize opening in step 1203. If it is determined that a round of play has not started, the process proceeds to step 1206. On the other hand, if it is determined that a round of play has started, the process proceeds to the next step 1205.
In step 1205, the main CPU 101 stores a round game start command indicating the start of a round game in the effect transmission data storage area.
In addition, a round game start command is provided for each number of round games, so that it is possible to transmit to the sub-control board 300 which number of round games has started.

In step 1206, the main CPU 101 determines whether the round game has ended based on the control of opening and closing the special prize opening in step 1203. If it is determined that the round game has not ended, the special game control process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the round game has ended, the process proceeds to the next step 1207.
In step 1207, the main CPU 101 decrements the number of rounds stored in the main RAM 103 by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step 1208.

In step 1208, the main CPU 101 determines whether the number of rounds decremented in step 1207 is "0." If it is determined that the number of rounds is not "0," the special game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of rounds is "0," the process proceeds to the next step 1209.
In step 1209, the main CPU 101 sets the ending time, which is the waiting time set at the end of the special game, in the ending time timer counter, and stores an ending command indicating that the ending process will start in the effect transmission data storage area.Then, the special game control process is terminated.

In step 1210, which is reached when it is determined in step 1202 that the ending process is in progress, the main CPU 101 determines whether the ending time set in the ending time timer counter in step 1209 has elapsed. If it is determined that the ending time has not elapsed, the special game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the ending time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step 1211.
In step 1211, the main CPU 101 stores a special game end command indicating that the special game has ended in the effect transmission data storage area.

In step 1212, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "04" so that the special game end process is executed in the special chart-related control process. The special game control process then ends.

Next, the special game ending process in step 705 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 1300, the main CPU 101 determines whether the execution phase data is "04," which indicates the execution of special game ending processing. If it is determined that the execution phase data is not "04," the special game ending processing is ended. On the other hand, if it is determined that the execution phase data is "04," the process proceeds to the next step 1301.
In step 1301, the main CPU 101 checks the jackpot pattern (stored in the memory area of the main RAM 103) that triggered the execution of the special game that has ended, and sets the game state after the special game has ended based on the game state setting table 117 corresponding to the jackpot pattern described above.
Specifically, the main CPU 101 sets a high probability game flag, a time-saving game flag, the number of high probability games, and the number of time-saving games. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the jackpot symbol is the special symbol X1, X2, or X3, the high probability game flag and the time-saving game flag are both turned on, and both the number of high probability games and the number of time-saving games are set to "10000." Also, when the jackpot symbol is the special symbol X4, the high probability game flag is turned off, the time-saving game flag is turned on, and the number of time-saving games is set to "100."
Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1302.

In step 1302, the main CPU 101 sets a game state designation command in the presentation transmission data storage area according to the game state set in the above-mentioned step 1301. This game state designation command includes information that the high probability game flag set in the above-mentioned step 1301 is on or off, information that the time-saving game flag is on or off, information on the number of high probability games, and information on the number of time-saving games. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1303.
In step 1303, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "00" so that the special symbol variation start process is executed in the special symbol related control process. Then, the special game end process is ended.

Next, the map-related control process in step 204 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1400, the main CPU 101 loads the value of the normal symbol execution phase data. This normal symbol execution phase data indicates which of the multiple function modules (subroutines) constituting the normal symbol-related control processing will be executed. Specifically, this normal symbol execution phase data has data "10" indicating the execution of the normal symbol variation start processing described later, data "11" indicating the execution of the normal symbol variation stop processing described later, data "12" indicating the execution of the normal symbol stop post-processing described later, and data "13" indicating the execution of the movable piece control processing described later.
Then, the main CPU 101 executes either the normal symbol variation start process (step 1401), the normal symbol variation stop process (step 1402), the normal symbol stop post-stop process (step 1403), or the movable piece control process (step 1404) based on the value of the normal symbol execution phase data loaded in the above-mentioned step 1400. Then, the normal symbol related control process is terminated.

Next, the normal symbol variation start processing in step 1401 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1500, the main CPU 101 determines whether the normal symbol execution phase data is "10", which indicates the execution of the normal symbol variation start process. If it is determined that the normal symbol execution phase data is not "10", the normal symbol variation start process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal symbol execution phase data is "10", the process proceeds to the next step 1501.
In step 1501, the main CPU 101 determines whether a hit random number is stored in the normal reserved memory area, that is, whether the normal reserved number counter is "1" or more. If it is determined that the normal reserved number counter is not "1" or more (i.e., "0"), the normal pattern variation start process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal reserved number counter is "1" or more, proceed to the next step 1502.

In step 1502, the main CPU 101 decrements the value of the normal reserved number counter by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step 1503.
In step 1503, the main CPU 101 executes a shift process for the regular map reserved memory area. Specifically, the winning determination random number stored in the first memory unit is stored in a predetermined processing area provided in the main RAM 103, and the winning determination random numbers stored in the second to fourth memory units are shifted to the memory unit with the next smaller number. As a result, the winning determination random numbers stored in the regular map reserved memory area are used in the winning determination process described below on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis. Then, the process proceeds to the next step, step 1504.

In step 1504, the main CPU 101 selects a winning determination random number determination table 118 (either the non-time-shortening determination table 118a or the time-shortening determination table 118b) corresponding to the current gaming state, and executes a winning determination process to derive the result of the lottery for the normal symbol based on the selected table and the winning determination random number stored in the predetermined processing area in step 1503. Specifically, if the current gaming state is a non-time-shortening gaming state, the main CPU 101 refers to the non-time-shortening determination table 118a to determine the winning determination random number stored in the predetermined processing area. On the other hand, if the current gaming state is a time-shortening gaming state, the main CPU 101 refers to the time-shortening determination table 118b to determine the winning determination random number stored in the predetermined processing area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1505.
In step 1505, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the result of the win determination process in the above-mentioned step 1504 is a win. If it is determined that there is no win (i.e., a loss), the process proceeds to step 1507. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is a win, the process proceeds to the next step 1506.

In step 1506, the main CPU 101 stores the winning symbol data in a predetermined symbol storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, the process proceeds to step 1508.
In step 1507, which is reached when it is determined in step 1505 that the result of the winning determination process is not a win, the main CPU 101 stores the losing symbol data in a predetermined regular symbol storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, the process proceeds to step 1508.

In step 1508, the main CPU 101 checks whether the current game state is set to a non-time-saving game state or a time-saving game state, and refers to the normal symbol variation pattern determination table 119 to set the normal symbol variation time timer counter to the variation time of the normal symbol corresponding to the current game state. Specifically, if the current game state is a non-time-saving game state, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol variation time timer counter to "3 seconds," and if it is a time-saving game state, sets the normal symbol variation time timer counter to "0.6 seconds." Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1509.
In step 1509, the main CPU 101 sets variable display data to start displaying the normal symbol variations. This causes the normal symbol display device 32 to start flashing. In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a winning determination random number is stored in the normal symbol reservation memory area, the normal symbol reservation display device 33 is displayed in a manner that allows the normal symbol reservation number to be recognized. When the normal symbol variation display is performed, the normal symbol reservation display device 33 is controlled to display that the normal symbol reservation number is reduced by one at the same time as the variable display starts. Then, proceed to the next step 1510.

In step 1510, the main CPU 101 stores the current game status in the game status buffer as the game status at the start of the fluctuation. Then, the process proceeds to step 1511.
In step 1511, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "11" so that the normal symbol variation stop process is executed in the normal symbol related control process. Then, the normal symbol variation start process is terminated.

Next, the normal symbol variation stop processing in step 1402 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1600, the main CPU 101 determines whether the normal symbol execution phase data is "11", which indicates the execution of the normal symbol variation stop process. If it is determined that the normal symbol execution phase data is not "11", the normal symbol variation stop process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal symbol execution phase data is "11", the process proceeds to the next step 1601.
In step 1601, the main CPU 101 determines whether the normal symbol fluctuation time set in the normal symbol fluctuation time timer counter in step 1508 has elapsed. If it is determined that the fluctuation time has not elapsed, the normal symbol fluctuation stop process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the fluctuation time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1602.

In step 1602, the main CPU 101 sets stop display data for stopping and displaying the normal symbols on the normal symbol display device 32, and executes the stop display of the normal symbols. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1603.
In step 1603, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol stop display time in the normal symbol stop display time timer counter. Then, the process proceeds to step 1604.

In step 1604, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "12" so that normal symbol post-stop processing is executed in the normal symbol-related control processing. Then, the normal symbol variation stop processing is terminated.

Next, the post-stop processing of the normal symbols in step 1403 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1700, the main CPU 101 determines whether the normal symbol execution phase data is "12", which indicates the execution of normal symbol stop post-processing. If it is determined that the normal symbol execution phase data is not "12", the normal symbol stop post-processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal symbol execution phase data is "12", the main CPU 101 proceeds to the next step 1701.
In step 1701, the main CPU 101 determines whether the normal symbol stop display time set in the normal symbol stop display time timer counter in step 1603 has elapsed. If it is determined that the normal symbol stop display time has not elapsed, the normal symbol stop post-processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal symbol stop display time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1702.

In step 1702, the main CPU 101 determines whether the stopped normal symbols are winning symbols. If it determines that the stopped normal symbols are not winning symbols (i.e., losing symbols), the process proceeds to step 1704. On the other hand, if it determines that the stopped normal symbols are winning symbols, the process proceeds to the next step 1703.
In step 1703, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "13" so that the movable piece control process is executed in the normal symbol related control process. Then, the normal symbol stop post-processing is terminated.

Furthermore, in step 1704, which is reached when it is determined in step 1702 above that the normal symbol displayed as stopped is not a winning symbol, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "10" so that the normal symbol variation start process is executed in the normal symbol-related control process. Then, the normal symbol post-stop process is terminated.

Next, the movable piece control process in step 1404 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1800, the main CPU 101 determines whether the normal execution phase data is "13", which indicates the execution of the movable piece control process. If it is determined that the normal execution phase data is not "13", the movable piece control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal execution phase data is "13", the process proceeds to the next step 1801.
In step 1801, the main CPU 101 determines whether the movable piece 16b is under operation control, i.e., whether the start winning port solenoid 16c is energized. If it is determined that the movable piece 16b is under operation control, the process proceeds to step 1804. On the other hand, if it is determined that the movable piece 16b is not under operation control, the process proceeds to the next step 1802.

In step 1802, the main CPU 101 checks whether the game state at the start of the normal symbol variation was the non-time-shortened game state or the time-shortened game state. Then, the process proceeds to step 1803.
In step 1803, the main CPU 101 refers to the second start winning port opening control table 120, and sets the number of times of energization (number of times of opening) and the energization time (opening time) as the energization control data (opening data) of the start winning port solenoid 16c according to the game status confirmed in the above-mentioned step 1802. Then, the movable piece control process is terminated.

In step 1804, which is reached when it is determined in step 1801 that the movable piece 16b is under operation control, the main CPU 101 determines whether the energization time (opening time) set in step 1803 has elapsed. If it is determined that the energization time (opening time) has not elapsed, the movable piece control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the energization time (opening time) has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1805.
In step 1805, the main CPU 101 stops the operation of the movable piece 16b, that is, stops the power supply to the start winning port solenoid 16c. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1806.

In step 1806, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "10" so that the normal symbol variation start process is executed in the normal symbol-related control process. Then, the moving piece control process is terminated.

(Outline of the effects on Pachinko machine P)
As described above, the special game, normal game, and bonus game progress by executing various processes on the main control board 100. During the progress of these games, the main control board 100 transmits various commands to the sub-control board 300, which receives these commands and controls the presentation of the games as they progress.
The following describes the variation effects that are executed during the display of the special symbols and indicate the results of the jackpot lottery.

(Summary of the variable effects)
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as described above, during the variable display of the special symbols, a variable effect is executed that suggests the result of the lottery for a jackpot by the display mode of the effect symbols 50. In this variable effect, the variable display of the effect symbols 50 (dummy symbols) is performed superimposed on a background image (not shown) displayed on the display unit 21a of the effect display device 21. Then, the result of the lottery for a jackpot is suggested to the player by the combination (stop display mode) of the effect symbols 50 that are stopped and displayed after the variable display.

Specifically, after the variable display of the special symbols begins, all of the effect symbols 50 are displayed in a static state, and then the variable display of all of the effect symbols 50 begins (see Figures 35(a) and (b)), and then the effect symbols 50 located on the left side (hereinafter also referred to as the left effect symbol or first stop symbol), the effect symbols 50 located on the right side (hereinafter also referred to as the right effect symbol or second stop symbol), and the effect symbols 50 located in the center (hereinafter also referred to as the middle effect symbol or third stop symbol) are displayed in this order (see Figures 35(c) to (e)). Note that the downward arrows in the figures indicate that the effect symbols 50 are displayed scrolling from top to bottom.
Then, if the result of the jackpot lottery is a jackpot, all of the effect symbols 50 are stopped and displayed with the same pattern (see FIG. 35(e)). In other words, when all of the effect symbols 50 are stopped and displayed with the same pattern, it is suggested that the result of the jackpot lottery is a jackpot. In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as described above, when the special pattern X3 is determined, the effect symbols 50 do not suggest that a jackpot has been won. Specifically, although not particularly shown, when the display of the effect symbols 50 begins to change, a specific effect image is displayed on the display unit 21a, and from the time the change time has passed until the special game based on the special pattern X3 ends, a high-probability time-shortening setting suggestion image is displayed, suggesting that a high-probability time-shortening game state will be set after the special game ends.
On the other hand, if the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss, although not specifically shown, at least one performance pattern 50 is displayed stopped in a pattern different from the other performance patterns 50, thereby indicating that the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss.

The third stop symbol is also displayed at approximately the same time as the special symbol is displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31. This prevents the special symbol from being displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31 before the effect symbol 50 is displayed, thereby preventing the result of the jackpot lottery from being determined by the type of special symbol.

Furthermore, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the period from when the display of the performance pattern 50 begins to change until the second stop pattern is displayed (until the presence or absence of a reach display, which will be described later, is indicated) corresponds to the first half of the change performance, and the period from when the second stop pattern is displayed (from when the presence or absence of a reach display is indicated) until the third stop pattern is displayed (until the change of the performance pattern 50 ends) corresponds to the second half of the change performance.
The first half of the variation performance includes a no-reach variation pattern in which the first and second stop symbols are displayed as different symbols, and a reach variation pattern in which the first and second stop symbols are displayed as the same symbol (a reach display is performed).The no-reach variation pattern and the reach variation pattern each have a plurality of modes, and each mode has various settings for the way of variation and the display contents of the performance symbol 50.

For example, although not specifically shown, examples of reach fluctuation patterns include a normal reach pattern in which the first and second stopping patterns are simply displayed as the same pattern without any particular change in the way they fluctuate or the display content of the performance pattern 50, and a pseudo-consecutive reach pattern in which all performance patterns 50 temporarily stop in a predetermined stop display mode and then the display resumes a predetermined number of times (a so-called pseudo-consecutive performance is performed), after which a reach display is displayed.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the likelihood of these reach variation patterns being executed in the event of a jackpot is set separately, so that the player's expectations for a jackpot can be changed depending on the reach variation pattern that is executed.

When the mode of the first half of the variable presentation is a reach variable pattern, the mode of the second half of the variable presentation is provided with a development pattern in which a reach development presentation in which a predetermined development presentation image is displayed on the display unit 21a of the presentation display device 21 after the reach display is executed, and then suggests the result of the jackpot lottery, and a no-development pattern in which a reach development presentation is not executed after the reach display is executed, and suggests the result of the jackpot lottery. The development pattern is set to have a high possibility of being executed if a jackpot is won, and therefore increases the player's sense of anticipation.
Although not specifically shown, when the mode of the first half of the variation presentation is a no-reach variation pattern, the mode of the second half of the variation presentation is a normal miss variation pattern that suggests that the result of the jackpot lottery will be a miss after the second half variation time has elapsed.
In addition, there are provided a plurality of types of no-development patterns, development patterns, and normal miss patterns, and various types of stop-displayed performance symbols 50, development performance images, etc. are set.

In addition to displaying images, the above-mentioned effects may also include outputting predetermined background music or sound from the audio output device 10 (speaker) in conjunction with the image display, or causing the effect lighting device 23 (lamp) to emit light in a predetermined lighting pattern or color.

Although not specifically shown, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, various variable effect determination tables for determining the mode of variable effects are stored in the sub-ROM 302 of the sub-control board 300. By receiving the variable mode command and variable pattern command transmitted from the main control board 100, the sub-CPU 301 of the sub-control board 300 selects a variable effect determination table according to predetermined conditions and acquires first-half variable effect random numbers and second-half variable effect random numbers (performance random numbers) within a predetermined numerical range (e.g., 0 to 249). The mode of variable effects is then determined based on the selected variable effect determination table, the variable mode command and variable pattern command received from the main CPU 101 of the main control board 100, and the acquired first-half variable effect random numbers and second-half variable effect random numbers. Furthermore, the sub-CPU 301 also determines the final display symbol 50 based on the results of the jackpot lottery (by referring to the variable mode command and variable pattern command).
Specifically, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as described above, the state of the first half of the variable performance is determined based on the variable mode command, and the state of the second half of the variable performance is determined based on the variable pattern command. As a result, the variable performance based on the determined state is executed in the performance display device 21, and the performance pattern 50 determined as described above is displayed stopped.

As will be described later, the performance pattern 50 is a number pattern from "1" to "9", but if a jackpot is won through a jackpot lottery and special pattern X1 is determined (i.e., if 10 rounds of round play are executed during special play based on a jackpot win and a high probability time-saving play state is set after the special play ends), any of "1" to "9" can be determined as the performance pattern 50 that is ultimately displayed.
Furthermore, when a jackpot is won by the jackpot lottery and the special pattern X2 is determined (i.e., when four rounds of round play are executed during the special play based on the jackpot win and a high probability time-saving play state is set after the special play ends), any one of the effect patterns 50 other than "7" (i.e., any of "1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "8", or "9") can be determined as the final stopped display.
Furthermore, if a jackpot is won through the jackpot lottery and special pattern X4 is determined (i.e., if four rounds of round play are executed during special play based on the jackpot win and a low-probability time-saving play state is set after the special play ends), any of the odd-numbered patterns ("1,""3,""5,""7,""9") other than the odd-numbered patterns ("1,""3,""5,""7,""9") (i.e., any of the even-numbered patterns ("2,""4,""6,""8")) can be determined as the effect pattern 50 to be finally displayed.
That is, when all the effect symbols 50 are stopped and displayed as odd numbers, suggesting a jackpot, a high-probability time-shortened game state is always set after the special game based on the jackpot has ended. On the other hand, when all the effect symbols 50 are stopped and displayed as even numbers, suggesting a jackpot, both a low-probability time-shortened game state and a high-probability time-shortened game state are set after the special game based on the jackpot has ended. Therefore, odd numbers are effect symbols 50 that create a higher expectation for the high-probability time-shortened game state than even numbers (i.e., effect symbols 50 with a higher degree of advantage).

(Outline of the variable display of the performance pattern 50)
In this embodiment, the performance patterns 50 (left performance pattern, right performance pattern, center performance pattern) are composed only of the number display section 51, which is a number-shaped display area, and specifically, are number patterns representing the numbers "1" to "9" (see Figure 36, etc.).
In the changing display of the performance patterns 50, the performance patterns 50, which are number patterns from "1" to "9", are displayed in a cyclical manner in ascending order (i.e., "1" → "2" → ... "8" → "9" → "1" → "2" → ...).
Furthermore, in the variable display of the effect symbols 50, first, all effect symbols 50 start to be scrolled downward from the state of the previous stopped display, and then all effect symbols 50 are displayed scrolling at high speed. During this high-speed scrolling display, the effect symbols 50 are not visible. Then, the scrolling speed of the left effect symbol (first stop symbol) gradually decreases until the left effect symbol is displayed stopped, next, the scrolling speed of the right effect symbol (second stop symbol) gradually decreases until the right effect symbol is displayed stopped, and finally, the scrolling speed of the middle effect symbol (third stop symbol) gradually decreases until the middle effect symbol is displayed stopped.

Here, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, in order to improve the presentation effect of the changing display of the presentation symbols 50, when the changing display of the presentation symbols 50 is executed, a predetermined presentation image 51 can be displayed corresponding to each presentation symbol 50. Specifically, an image of a male character (hereinafter also referred to as a character image) can be displayed as the presentation image 51 at the stop display position corresponding to the number display portion 51 of each presentation symbol 50.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, a plurality of presentation modes are provided in which the variable display of the presentation symbol 50 and the display mode of the above-mentioned character image are different in the normal game state. Specifically, three types of presentation modes are provided in this normal game state: a first presentation mode, a second presentation mode, and a third presentation mode. During the normal game state, one of the first presentation mode, the second presentation mode, and the third presentation mode is set, and the variable display of the presentation symbol 50 and the display of the above-mentioned character image corresponding to the set presentation mode are executed.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, if the result of the lottery for the big win is a miss, a mode switching lottery is held to determine whether or not to switch the currently set presentation mode to another presentation mode.
Specifically, a mode switching lottery table (not shown) for conducting a mode switching lottery is stored in the sub-ROM 302 of the sub-control board 300. Upon receiving a variable mode command transmitted from the main control board 100 indicating a loss, the sub-CPU 301 of the sub-control board 300 selects a mode switching lottery table and acquires a mode switching random number within a predetermined numerical range (e.g., 0 to 249). Based on the mode switching lottery table and the acquired mode switching random number, the sub-CPU 301 determines whether or not to switch the currently set presentation mode to another presentation mode. If it is determined that the currently set presentation mode should be switched to another presentation mode, the switch to the other presentation mode occurs when the variable presentation based on the above-mentioned variable mode command ends. As a result, from the next variable presentation, the display of the presentation pattern 50 corresponding to the switched presentation mode and the display of the above-mentioned character image are executed.

(Outline of the variable display of the performance pattern 50 and the display of the character image in each performance mode)
Below, we will explain the changing display of the performance pattern 50 and the display of the character image in each performance mode.
(1) First Presentation Mode In the first presentation mode, the display of the changing presentation patterns 50 scrolls downward as shown in Figures 36 and 37, and then all of the presentation patterns 50 (left presentation pattern, middle presentation pattern, right presentation pattern) are displayed stopped in a horizontal row in the center of the display unit 31a.

In addition, in the first presentation mode, a variable presentation is executed that suggests that the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss without a reach display (i.e., a variable presentation using a no-reach variable pattern and a normal miss variable pattern), and when it is determined that an odd numbered pattern is to be displayed in a stopped state for at least one of the three presentation patterns 50, the character image described above is displayed in correspondence with any one of the presentation patterns 50 for which it has been determined that an odd numbered pattern is to be displayed in a stopped state (at the stopped display position of that presentation pattern 50).

Specifically, when an odd-numbered pattern is determined to stop for only the left performance pattern (first stop pattern), a character image is displayed corresponding to the left performance pattern, when an odd-numbered pattern is determined to stop for only the right performance pattern (second stop pattern), a character image is displayed corresponding to the right performance pattern, and when an odd-numbered pattern is determined to stop for only the middle performance pattern (third stop pattern), a character image is displayed corresponding to the middle performance pattern.
In addition, when it is determined that an odd-numbered pattern will stop for the left and right performance patterns, a character image is displayed corresponding to either the left or right performance pattern, when it is determined that an odd-numbered pattern will stop for the left and middle performance patterns, a character image is displayed corresponding to either the left or middle performance pattern, and when it is determined that an odd-numbered pattern will stop for the middle and right performance patterns, a character image is displayed corresponding to either the middle or right performance pattern.
In addition, when it is determined that odd numbers will stop for all of the left, right and middle performance patterns, a character image is displayed corresponding to either the left, right or middle performance pattern.

In addition, if it is determined that two or more odd-numbered symbols will stop displaying, a predetermined lottery will be used to determine which symbol 50 will display a character image, and the character image will be displayed in accordance with the determined symbol 50.

Furthermore, the character image is displayed in a size larger than the number display section 51 of the corresponding effect pattern 50, and when displayed at the above-mentioned stop display position, it is displayed behind (on the back side of) the corresponding effect pattern 50 and the effect patterns 50 adjacent to the corresponding effect pattern 50, overlapping the number display section 51 of these effect patterns 50. In other words, the character image is displayed across the number display section 51 of the corresponding effect pattern 50 and the adjacent effect patterns 50, with a portion of it being covered by these number display sections 51.
Specifically, when a character image is displayed corresponding to the left performance pattern, the character image is displayed in a size larger than the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern, and is displayed behind the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern and the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern, overlapping the number display section 51 of these performance patterns 50 (see Figure 37).
Also, although not specifically shown, when a character image is displayed corresponding to the right performance pattern, the character image is displayed in a size larger than the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern, and is displayed behind the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern and the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern, overlapping the number display section 51 of these performance patterns 50.
Also, although not specifically shown, when a character image is displayed corresponding to a middle performance pattern, the character image is displayed in a size larger than the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern, and is displayed behind the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern, the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern, and the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern, overlapping the number display sections 51 of these performance patterns 50.

(Specific example of the variable display of the performance pattern 50 in the first performance mode)
For example, when the first presentation mode is set, the result of the lottery for the jackpot is a miss, and it is determined that the variable presentation will be performed using the no-reach variable pattern and the normal miss variable pattern, and that the left presentation symbol will stop at "7", the right presentation symbol will stop at "5", and the center presentation symbol will stop at "7". Also, it is determined that the left presentation symbol is the presentation symbol 50 that displays the character image (i.e., it is determined that the character image will be displayed in correspondence with the left presentation symbol).
In this case, when the scrolling speed of the left effect symbol 50 starts to slow down to stop the display of "7" from a state in which all effect symbols 50 are scrolling at high speed, a character image begins to be displayed behind the left effect symbol at the stopped display position of the left effect symbol, overlapping the left effect symbol (see Figures 36(a) and (b)). At this start, the character image is about the same size as the number display section 51 of the left effect symbol, but as the scrolling speed of the left effect symbol slows down, the character image is enlarged and displayed, and by the time the left effect symbol is stopped and displayed, it is larger than the number display section 51 of the left effect symbol (see Figure 37(a)). At this time, a portion of the character image corresponding to the left effect symbol is also displayed at the stopped display position of the center effect symbol (see Figure 37(a)). After that, when the right effect symbol is stopped and the center effect symbol is stopped and displayed, a portion of the character is displayed behind the center effect symbol, overlapping the center effect symbol (see Figure 37(b)). As a result, the character image is displayed behind the number display section 51 of the left effect pattern and the number display section 51 of the center effect pattern, overlapping the number display section 51 of these effect patterns 50. This character image is erased when the next variable effect starts.

As described above, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, in the first presentation mode, a variable presentation that suggests a loss is executed without a reach display, and when it is determined that an odd numbered symbol will be stopped for at least one presentation symbol 50, the character image described above is displayed at the stop display position of the presentation symbol 50 corresponding to any one of the presentation symbols 50 for which it has been determined that an odd numbered symbol will be stopped. Also, the character image described above is displayed in a size larger than the number display portion 51 of the corresponding presentation symbol 50, and is displayed behind the corresponding presentation symbol 50 and the adjacent presentation symbols 50, overlapping the number display portion 51 of these presentation symbols 50.
This makes the stopped display of the above-mentioned effect symbols 50 more impactful, giving the player a novel impression and improving the effect of the stopped display of the effect symbols 50. Also, even when the character image is displayed, the visibility of the above-mentioned effect symbols 50 and adjacent effect symbols 50 is not obstructed, so it is possible for the player to reliably recognize the stopped-displayed effect symbols 50. Furthermore, because the above-mentioned character image is displayed when odd-numbered symbols, which have a higher advantage than even-numbered symbols, are stopped-displayed, it is possible to strongly impress on the player that odd-numbered symbols are effect symbols 50 with a higher advantage.

In the first presentation mode in this embodiment, a variable presentation is executed that suggests a miss without a reach display, and when an odd numbered pattern is displayed stopped for at least one presentation pattern 50, a character image is displayed corresponding to one of the odd numbered patterns, but the display conditions for the character image and the type of presentation pattern 50 to be displayed are not limited to this.
For example, when a variable effect suggesting a miss is executed after a reach display is made, or when a variable effect suggesting a jackpot is executed after a reach display is made, a character image may be displayed targeting one of the display patterns 50.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.
After the reach display is performed, the character image that had been displayed up until then may be erased in order to increase attention to the reach display. Also, when a jackpot is suggested, in order to increase attention to the suggestion of a jackpot, the character image corresponding to either the first or second stop symbol may be displayed without displaying the character image corresponding to the third stop symbol.

In addition, the character image may be displayed not only for odd-numbered symbols but also for even-numbered symbols. That is, when an even-numbered symbol is stopped and displayed for at least one of the effect symbols 50, a character image may be displayed corresponding to any of the even-numbered symbols.
In addition, the character image may be displayed for both odd and even symbols. That is, regardless of whether an odd or even symbol is stopped and displayed, the character image may be displayed in correspondence with either of the effect symbols 50.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

Furthermore, in the first presentation mode of this embodiment, a character image is displayed for one presentation pattern 50, but the number of presentation patterns 50 for displaying character images is not limited to this, and character images may be displayed for two or more presentation patterns 50.
Specifically, for example, when odd-numbered patterns are stopped and displayed for two performance patterns 50, character images corresponding to each of these two performance patterns 50 may be displayed, and when odd-numbered patterns are stopped and displayed for three performance patterns 50, character images corresponding to each of any two of the performance patterns 50 or character images corresponding to each of all three performance patterns 50 may be displayed.
The same applies when character images are displayed for even number symbols, or when character images are displayed for both odd number symbols and even number symbols.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

In addition, in the first presentation mode in this embodiment, a character image is displayed across the number display section 51 of the corresponding presentation pattern 50 and the number display section 51 of the adjacent presentation pattern 50, but the display manner of the character image is not limited to this.
For example, the character image displayed corresponding to the left effect pattern may be displayed across the number display section 51 of the left effect pattern and the number display section 51 of the right effect pattern. Specifically, the character image displayed at the stop display position of the left effect pattern may be displayed so that a portion of it overlaps with the number display section 51 of the right effect pattern.
Furthermore, for example, the character image displayed corresponding to the left performance pattern may be displayed across the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern, the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern, and the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern. Specifically, the character image displayed at the stop display position of the left performance pattern may be displayed so that a portion of it overlaps with the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern and the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern.
Furthermore, for example, the character image displayed corresponding to the right effect pattern may be displayed across the number display section 51 of the right effect pattern and the number display section 51 of the left effect pattern. Specifically, the character image displayed at the stop display position of the right effect pattern may be displayed so that a portion of it overlaps with the number display section 51 of the left effect pattern.
Furthermore, for example, the character image displayed corresponding to the right performance pattern may be displayed across the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern, the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern, and the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern. Specifically, the character image displayed at the stop display position of the right performance pattern may be displayed so that a portion of it overlaps with the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern and the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern.
Also, for example, the character image displayed corresponding to the middle performance pattern may be displayed across only the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern and the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern, or it may be displayed across only the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern and the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

Furthermore, in the first presentation mode of this embodiment, the character image is displayed overlapping the presentation pattern 50 behind (on the back side of) the presentation pattern 50 (i.e., the character image is displayed with at least a portion of it covered by the presentation pattern 50), but the display manner of the character image is not limited to this.
For example, the character image may be displayed overlapping the performance pattern 50 on the near side (front side) of the performance pattern 50 (i.e., the performance pattern 50 is displayed with at least a part of it covered by the character image). In this case, from the time the scrolling speed of the performance pattern 50 starts to slow down until the performance pattern 50 is stopped and displayed, the character image may be displayed overlapping the performance pattern 50 on the near side (front side) of the performance pattern 50, and after the performance pattern 50 is stopped and displayed, the character image may be displayed overlapping the performance pattern 50 on the rear side (back side) of the performance pattern 50.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

Furthermore, in the first presentation mode of this embodiment, the display of the character image begins when the speed of scrolling of the presentation pattern 50 begins to slow down, but the point at which the display of the character image begins is not particularly limited.
For example, the display of the character image may start at any point while the performance pattern 50 is scrolling at high speed, or at any point between the point at which the speed of the scrolling of the performance pattern 50 begins to slow down and the point at which the performance pattern 50 is displayed as stopped, or it may start from the point at which the performance pattern 50 is displayed as stopped.
In addition, instead of enlarging the character image displayed at the start to a size larger than the number display section 51 of the performance pattern 50, it may be displayed at a size larger than the number display section of the performance pattern 50 from the start.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

(2) Second Presentation Mode In the second presentation mode, as shown in Figures 38 to 41, the display of the varying presentation symbols 50 scrolls downward, and then the left presentation symbol is displayed stopped at the upper left of the display unit 31a, the right presentation symbol is displayed stopped at the lower right of the display unit 31a, and the middle presentation symbol is displayed stopped at the center of the display unit 31a. In other words, the left presentation symbol, the middle presentation symbol, and the right presentation symbol are displayed stopped diagonally downward to the right. In other words, the stop display position of the left presentation symbol, the stop display position of the middle presentation symbol, and the stop display position of the right presentation symbol are located on a line that is diagonally downward to the right.

In addition, in the second presentation mode, when a variation presentation is executed that suggests that the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss without a reach display (i.e., a variation presentation using a no-reach variation pattern and a normal miss variation pattern), a predetermined character image (presentation image) is displayed corresponding to each of the three presentation symbols 50 (at the stop display position of each presentation symbol 50).

Specifically, the character image displayed at the stop display position of the left performance pattern (hereinafter also referred to as left character image 52L) is an image in a display mode showing the entire body of a male character in a specified pose, the character image displayed at the stop display position of the right performance pattern (hereinafter also referred to as right character image 52R) is an image in a display mode showing a close-up of the male character's profile, and the character image displayed at the stop display position of the middle performance pattern (hereinafter also referred to as middle character image 52C) is an image in a display mode showing the male character with his back turned and holding a gun.
It should be noted that various display modes can be adopted for the character images displayed corresponding to each effect symbol 50. Also, all character images may be displayed in the same mode.

In addition, all of the above-mentioned character images are displayed in a size larger than the number display section 51 of the corresponding performance pattern 50.
Furthermore, when the left character image 52L is displayed at the stop display position of the left effect symbol, it is displayed behind (on the back side of) the left effect symbol, overlapping with the number display section 51 of the left effect symbol (see Figures 38 to 40, etc.). In other words, the left character image 52L is displayed with a portion covered by the number display section 51 of the left effect symbol.
Furthermore, when the middle character image 52C is displayed at the stop display position of the middle performance symbol, it is displayed behind (on the back side of) the middle performance symbol, overlapping with the number display section 51 of the middle performance symbol (see Figures 38 to 40, etc.). In other words, the middle character image 52C is displayed with a portion covered by the number display section 51 of the middle performance symbol.
Furthermore, when the right character image 52R is displayed at the stop display position of the right performance pattern, it is displayed behind (on the back side of) the right performance pattern and the middle performance pattern, overlapping with the number display units 51 of the right performance pattern and the middle performance pattern (see Figures 38 to 40, etc.). In other words, the right character image 52R is displayed across the number display units 51 of the right performance pattern and the middle performance pattern, with a portion of it being covered by these number display units 51.

(Specific example of the variable display of the performance pattern 50 in the second performance mode)
For example, when the second presentation mode is set, the result of the lottery for the jackpot is a miss, and it is decided that a variable presentation will be executed using a no-reach variable pattern and a normal miss variable pattern, and it is also decided that the left presentation pattern will stop at "1", the right presentation pattern will stop at "7", and the center presentation pattern will stop at "1".

In this case, when all the effect symbols 50 are being scrolled at high speed, the scrolling speed of the left effect symbol gradually slows down and a "1" is displayed in a stopped state. At the stopped display position of the left effect symbol, a left character image 52L in the above-described display mode is displayed behind the left effect symbol, overlapping the number display section 51 of the left effect symbol (see Figures 38(a) and (b)). Next, when the scrolling speed of the right effect symbol gradually slows down and a "7" is displayed in a stopped display position of the right effect symbol, a right character image 52R in the above-described display mode is displayed behind the right effect symbol, overlapping the number display section 51 of the right effect symbol (see Figure 38(b)). At this time, the middle effect symbol is being scrolled at high speed, and this scrolling display is executed behind the right character image 52R, overlapping a part of the right character image 52R (see Figure 38(b)).

Then, when the scrolling speed of the middle performance pattern begins to slow down in order to stop the display of "1," a middle character performance is executed to display a middle character image 52C corresponding to the middle performance pattern (see Figures 39 (a) and (b), etc.).
In this middle character effect, first, a predetermined action display is performed by the male character associated with the middle character image 52C. Specifically, in this action display, in the display area from the upper center to the lower center of the display unit 21a, the above-mentioned male character is displayed facing forward and holding a gun in front of all effect symbols 50, left character image 52L, and right character image 52R, and then this male character is displayed turning around to the rear (back side) of the middle effect symbol while facing away from the player (see FIGS. 39(b), 40(a), and 40(b)).
Then, when the above-mentioned action display ends, the middle performance pattern is stopped and displayed as "1", and at the stopped display position of the middle performance pattern, the right character image 52R in the above-mentioned display mode is displayed behind the middle performance pattern, overlapping the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern (see Figure 40 (b)).

Here, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the center effect symbol is stopped and displayed, a part of the number display section 51 of the center effect symbol is displayed overlapping the right character image 52R behind the right character image 52R (see FIG. 40(b)). Then, from this state, the number display section 51 of the center effect symbol is reduced in size so that the size of the overlapping part between the number display section 51 of the center effect symbol and the right character image 52R becomes smaller, and then the number display section 51 of the center effect symbol is displayed overlapping the right character image 52R in front of the right character image 52R (see FIGS. 41(a) and (b)).
The left character image 52L, the center character image 52C, and the right character image 52R are all erased when the next variable performance starts.

As described above, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, in the second presentation mode, when a variable presentation that suggests that the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss is executed without a reach display, character images (left character image 52L, center character image 52C, right character image 52R) with different display modes are displayed at the stop display positions of each presentation pattern 50 corresponding to each of the three presentation patterns 50. Also, when the center presentation pattern is stopped and displayed, the center character image 52C is displayed with a predetermined action display.
This makes the stopped display of the above-mentioned performance pattern 50 more impactful, giving the player a novel impression, and making it possible to improve the performance effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50.
Furthermore, when the middle performance pattern is stopped and displayed, a portion of the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern is displayed overlapping the right character image 52R behind the right character image 52R, but from this state, the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern is displayed in a reduced size so that the size of the overlapping portion between the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern and the right character image 52R becomes smaller, and the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern is displayed overlapping the right character image 52R in front of the right character image 52R.
This allows the player to view the right character image 52R for as long as possible, while ultimately ensuring that the visibility of the center performance pattern is not obstructed by the right character image 52R, allowing the player to reliably recognize the performance pattern 50 that is displayed in a stopped state for the player.

In the second presentation mode of this embodiment, when a variable presentation that suggests a miss is executed without a reach display, a character image is displayed corresponding to each of the three presentation patterns 50, but the display conditions for the character images and the types of presentation patterns 50 to be displayed are not limited to this.
For example, when a variable effect suggesting a miss is executed after a reach display is made, or when a variable effect suggesting a jackpot is executed after a reach display is made, a character image may be displayed targeting the display pattern 50.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.
After the reach display is performed, the character image that has been displayed up until then may be erased in order to increase attention to the reach display. Also, when a jackpot is suggested, in order to increase attention to the suggestion of a jackpot, the character image corresponding to at least one of the first and second stop symbols may be displayed without displaying the character image corresponding to the third stop symbol.

Also, a character image may be displayed for an odd numbered symbol only when the odd numbered symbol is stopped and displayed, or a character image may be displayed for an even numbered symbol only when the even numbered symbol is stopped and displayed. Also, instead of a character image being displayed every time a variable display is performed, a character image may be displayed for a predetermined effect symbol 50 when a decision to display a character image is made by a predetermined lottery.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

Furthermore, in the second presentation mode of this embodiment, character images are displayed for all three presentation patterns 50, but the number of presentation patterns 50 for displaying character images is not limited to this, and character images may be displayed for any one or two presentation patterns 50.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

In addition, in the second presentation mode of this embodiment, when the middle presentation pattern is displayed in a stopped state, a portion of the number display section 51 of the middle presentation pattern is displayed overlapping the right character image 52R behind the right character image 52R, but the display state of the presentation pattern 50 and the character image is not limited to this.
For example, when a center effect symbol is stopped and displayed, a part of the number display unit 51 of the center effect symbol may be displayed overlapping the left character image 52L behind the left character image 52L. From this state, the number display unit 51 of the center effect symbol may be reduced in size so that the size of the overlapping part between the number display unit 51 of the center effect symbol and the left character image 52L becomes smaller, and the number display unit 51 of the center effect symbol may be displayed overlapping the left character image 52L in front of the left character image 52L.
Furthermore, for example, when a center effect symbol is stopped and displayed, a part of the number display unit 51 of the center effect symbol may be displayed overlapping the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R behind the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R. Then, from this state, the number display unit 51 of the center effect symbol may be reduced in size so that the size of the overlapping part between the number display unit 51 of the center effect symbol and the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R becomes smaller, and the number display unit 51 of the center effect symbol may be displayed overlapping the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R in front of the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R.
In this case, too, it is possible to ensure that the player is able to recognize the effect pattern 50 that is displayed in a stopped state.

Furthermore, in the second presentation mode in this embodiment, the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R are displayed overlapping the presentation pattern 50 behind the left presentation pattern and the right presentation pattern (i.e., the character image is displayed with at least a portion of it covered by the presentation pattern 50), but the display manner of these character images is not limited to this.
For example, the character image may be displayed overlapping the performance pattern 50 on the near side (front side) of the performance pattern 50 (i.e., the performance pattern 50 is displayed with at least a part of it covered by the character image). In this case, from the time the scrolling speed of the performance pattern 50 starts to slow down until the performance pattern 50 is stopped and displayed, the character image may be displayed overlapping the performance pattern 50 on the near side (front side) of the performance pattern 50, and after the performance pattern 50 is stopped and displayed, the number display section 51 of the performance pattern 50 is reduced so that the size of the overlapping part is reduced, and then the character image may be displayed overlapping the performance pattern 50 on the rear side (back side) of the performance pattern 50.
For example, when a middle performance pattern is displayed in a stopped state, at least a portion of the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern may be displayed overlapping the middle character image 52C behind the middle character image 52C, and then the number display section of the middle performance pattern may be displayed in a reduced size so that the size of this overlapping portion becomes smaller, and then the number display section of the middle performance pattern may be displayed overlapping the middle character image 52C in front of the middle character image 52C.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

In addition, in the second presentation mode of this embodiment, after a predetermined action display is executed, the middle character image 52C is displayed in the above-mentioned display mode at the stop display position of the middle presentation pattern, but it is also possible to display the middle character image 52C without executing the action display.
In addition, the time at which each character image is displayed may be any time during the high-speed scrolling of the corresponding performance pattern 50, any time between the time the speed of the scrolling of the corresponding performance pattern 50 begins to slow down and the time the performance pattern 50 is displayed as stopped, or the time at which the corresponding performance pattern 50 is displayed as stopped.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

(3) Third Presentation Mode In the third presentation mode, in the changing display of the presentation patterns 50, as shown in Figures 42 to 47, the three presentation patterns 50 are displayed scrolling downward, and then all of the presentation patterns 50 (left presentation pattern, middle presentation pattern, right presentation pattern) are displayed stopped in a horizontal row in the center of the display unit 31a.

In the third presentation mode, when a variation presentation that suggests that the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss without a reach display (i.e., a variation presentation based on a no-reach variation pattern and a normal miss variation pattern) is executed, a predetermined character image (presentation image) or the like is displayed in correspondence with each of the three presentation patterns 50 (at the stop display positions of each presentation pattern 50). That is, as in the second presentation mode, a left character image 52L (for example, an image in a display mode showing a male character facing forward and holding a gun) is displayed in correspondence with the left presentation pattern, a middle character image 52C (for example, an image in a display mode showing a male character turning his back and holding a gun) is displayed in correspondence with the middle presentation pattern, and a right character image 52R (for example, an image in a display mode showing a close-up of the male character's profile) is displayed in correspondence with the right presentation pattern.
It should be noted that various display modes can be adopted for the character images displayed corresponding to each effect symbol 50. Also, all character images may be displayed in the same mode.

Here, in the third performance mode, the middle character image 52C is displayed in a size larger than the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern, and when displayed at the stop display position of the middle performance pattern, it is displayed behind (on the back side of) the middle performance pattern, left performance pattern, and right performance pattern, overlapping with the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern, left performance pattern, and right performance pattern (see Figures 45(a) and (b), etc.). In other words, the middle character image 52C is displayed across the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern, middle performance pattern, and right performance pattern, with a portion of it being covered by these number display sections 51.
The display of this middle character image 52C is executed in conjunction with the stopped display of the middle performance pattern, and the middle character image 52C continues to be displayed until the next variable performance begins and a new variable display of the middle performance pattern begins.

On the other hand, the left character image 52L is displayed inside the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern (see Figure 42(b) etc.), and the right character image 52R is displayed inside the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern (see Figure 43(b) etc.).
The display of the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R is performed in conjunction with the enlarged display of the effect pattern 50, which is performed when the left effect pattern and the right effect pattern are stopped and displayed as described below. Then, the display of the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R is erased, and the reduced display, which will be described below, is performed.

In addition, in the third presentation mode, when each presentation pattern 50 is displayed in a stopped state, the number display portion 51 of the presentation pattern 50, which is of a predetermined size (the same size as each presentation pattern 50 when it is finally displayed in a stopped state at each stopped display position) that is displayed while the scrolling speed is slowed down, is first enlarged so that it is larger than the predetermined size, and then reduced so that it is the predetermined size (see Figures 42(b), 43(a) and (b), 44(a) and (b), and 45(a) and (b)).
Furthermore, when the above-mentioned enlarged display is performed, the size of the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern is larger than the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern and the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern when the above-mentioned enlarged display is performed (see Figures 42 (b), 43 (b), 44 (b), and 45 (a)).

In addition, in the third presentation mode, the above-mentioned presentation pattern 50 is enlarged when the variable presentation starts, and the above-mentioned left character image 52L and right character image 52R are also displayed in conjunction with the enlarged display of the left and right presentation patterns at the start of this variable presentation.

(Specific example of the variable display of the performance pattern 50 in the third performance mode)
For example, when the third presentation mode is set, the result of the lottery for the jackpot is a miss, and it is decided that a variable presentation will be executed using a no-reach variable pattern and a normal miss variable pattern, and it is also decided that the left presentation pattern will stop at "8", the right presentation pattern will stop at "6", and the center presentation pattern will stop at "8".

In this case, when the scrolling speed of the left effect pattern starts to slow down to stop the display of "8" from a state in which all effect patterns 50 are being scrolled at high speed, the number display section 51 of the left effect pattern (the number pattern "8" that is stopped) is enlarged as described above, and the left character image 52L is displayed inside the number display section 51 of the left effect pattern (see Figures 42(a) and (b)). Then, the displayed left character image 52L is erased, and with the left character image 52L erased, the number display section 51 of the left effect pattern is reduced as described above, and the "8" is stopped and displayed (see Figure 43(a)).
Next, when the scrolling speed of the right effect symbol begins to slow down in order to stop the "6" from being displayed, the number display section 51 of the right effect symbol (the number symbol "6" that is stopped and displayed) is enlarged as described above, and the right character image 52R is displayed inside the number display section 51 of the right effect symbol (see FIG. 43(b)). Then, the displayed right character image 52R is erased, and with the right character image 52R erased, the number display section 51 of the right effect symbol is reduced and the "6" is stopped and displayed (see FIG. 44(a)).
Finally, when the scrolling speed of the middle performance symbol begins to slow down to stop the "8" from being displayed, the number display section 51 of the middle performance symbol (the number "8" displayed as a stopped symbol) is enlarged as described above, and at the stopped display position of the middle performance symbol, a middle character image 52C is displayed behind the middle performance symbol, the left performance symbol, and the right performance symbol, overlapping these number display sections 51 (see Figures 44(b) and 45(a)). Then, while the middle character image 52C remains displayed, the number display section 51 of the middle performance symbol is reduced as described above, and the "8" is displayed as a stopped symbol (see Figure 45(b)).

After this, when the next variable performance begins, the above-mentioned enlarged display is first performed on the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern (number pattern "8") that was stopped and displayed in the previous variable performance, and after the left character image 52L is displayed inside the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern, a display that scrolls at high speed for the left performance pattern begins (see Figures 46 (a) and (b)).
Next, the above-mentioned enlarged display is performed on the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern (number pattern "6") that was displayed in a stopped state during the previous variable performance, and after the right character image 52R is displayed inside the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern, a display that scrolls at high speed for the right performance pattern begins (see Figures 46 (b) and 47 (a)).
Finally, after the above-mentioned enlarged display of the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern (the number pattern "88") that was stopped and displayed in the previous variable performance, although not specifically shown, the middle character image 52C that had been continuously displayed up until then is erased with a predetermined action (for example, an action such as sliding upwards), and a display that scrolls at high speed of the middle performance pattern begins (see Figures 47 (a) and (b)).

As described above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, in the third presentation mode, when a variable presentation is executed that suggests that the result of the jackpot lottery is a miss without a reach display, character images are displayed corresponding to all three presentation patterns 50.
This makes the stopped display of the above-mentioned performance pattern 50 more impactful, giving the player a novel impression, and making it possible to improve the performance effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50.

In addition, when the left and right performance patterns are stopped and displayed, the above-mentioned enlarged display is performed for these performance patterns 50, and the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R are displayed inside the number display section 51 of these performance patterns 50, respectively, and then these character images are erased and the above-mentioned reduced display is performed for the number display section 51 of these performance patterns 50.
Furthermore, when the middle performance symbol is stopped and displayed, the above-mentioned enlarged display is performed for the middle performance symbol, and at the stopped display position of the middle performance symbol, a middle character image 52C is displayed behind the middle performance symbol, left performance symbol, and right performance symbol, overlapping these number display sections 51, and then the above-mentioned reduced display is performed for the number display section 51 of the middle performance symbol while the middle character image 52C remains displayed. Furthermore, when the above-mentioned enlarged display is performed, the number display section 51 of the left performance symbol and the number display section 51 of the right performance symbol are both larger than the number display section 51 of the middle performance symbol when the above-mentioned enlarged display is performed.
This reliably prevents the middle character image 52C from obstructing the display of the left character image 52L and the right character image 52R, and improves the visibility of the left character image 52L displayed in the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern and the right character image 52R displayed in the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern.

Furthermore, when the next variable effect begins, the number display section 51 of the left effect pattern is enlarged, and the left character image 52L is displayed inside the number display section 51 of the left effect pattern, and then the left effect pattern begins to scroll at high speed, and the number display section 51 of the right effect pattern is enlarged, and the right character image 52R is displayed inside the number display section 51 of the right effect pattern, and then the right effect pattern begins to scroll at high speed. Furthermore, the middle character image 52C displayed when the middle effect pattern is displayed stationary continues to be displayed until the variable display of the middle effect pattern begins in the next variable effect. Furthermore, the continuously displayed middle character image 52C is erased with a predetermined action when the variable display of the middle effect pattern begins in the next variable effect.
This makes the start of the changing display of the performance pattern 50 more impactful, giving the player a novel impression, and making it possible to improve the performance effect of the start of the changing display of the performance pattern 50.

In the third presentation mode of this embodiment, when a variable presentation that suggests a miss is executed without a reach display, a character image is displayed corresponding to each of the three presentation patterns 50, but the display conditions for the character images and the types of presentation patterns 50 to be displayed are not limited to this.
For example, when a variable effect suggesting a miss is executed after a reach display is made, or when a variable effect suggesting a jackpot is executed after a reach display is made, a character image may be displayed targeting the display pattern 50.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.
In addition, when a jackpot is suggested, in order to increase attention to the suggestion of a jackpot, the display of a character image corresponding to at least one of the first and second stopping patterns may be executed without displaying a character image corresponding to the third stopping pattern.

Also, a character image may be displayed for an odd numbered symbol only when the odd numbered symbol is stopped and displayed, or a character image may be displayed for an even numbered symbol only when the even numbered symbol is stopped and displayed. Also, instead of a character image being displayed every time a variable display is performed, a character image may be displayed for a predetermined effect symbol 50 when a decision to display a character image is made by a predetermined lottery.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

Furthermore, in the third presentation mode of this embodiment, character images are displayed for all three presentation patterns 50, but the number of presentation patterns 50 for displaying character images is not limited to this, and character images may be displayed for any one or two presentation patterns 50.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

In addition, in the third presentation mode of this embodiment, at the stop display position of the middle presentation pattern, a middle character image 52C is displayed behind the middle presentation pattern, left presentation pattern, and right presentation pattern, overlapping these number display sections 51, but the display manner of the middle character image 52C is not limited to this.
For example, at the stop display position of the middle performance pattern, the middle character image 52C may be displayed behind the middle performance pattern and the left performance pattern, overlapping these number display units 51, or the middle character image 52C may be displayed behind the middle performance pattern and the right performance pattern, overlapping these number display units 51.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

In addition, in the third presentation mode of this embodiment, the middle character image 52C is displayed overlapping the number display section 51 behind the middle presentation pattern, left presentation pattern, and right presentation pattern, and the left character image 52L and right character image 52R are displayed inside the number display section 51 of the left presentation pattern and inside the number display section 51 of the right presentation pattern, respectively.However, the display mode of each character image is not limited to this, and the combination of presentation patterns 50 that display character images inside the number display section 51 and presentation patterns 50 that display character images behind the number display section 51 may be set appropriately according to the presentation specifications.
For example, the left character image 52L may be displayed overlapping the number display section 51 behind the left and middle performance patterns, while the middle character image 52C and the right character image 52R may be displayed inside the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern and inside the number display section 51 of the right performance pattern, respectively.
Also, for example, the right character image 52R may be displayed overlapping the number display section 51 behind the right performance pattern and the middle performance pattern, while the left character image 52L and the middle character image 52C may be displayed inside the number display section 51 of the left performance pattern and inside the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern, respectively.
Also, for example, the right character image 52R may be displayed overlapping the number display section 51 behind the right performance pattern and the middle performance pattern, the left character image 52L may be displayed overlapping the number display section 51 behind the left performance pattern and the middle performance pattern, and the middle character image 52C may be displayed inside the number display section 51 of the middle performance pattern.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

In addition, the time at which each character image is displayed may be any time during the high-speed scrolling of the corresponding performance pattern 50, any time between the time the speed of the scrolling of the corresponding performance pattern 50 begins to slow down and the time the performance pattern 50 is displayed as stopped, or the time at which the corresponding performance pattern 50 is displayed as stopped.
In this case, the effect of the stopped display of the performance pattern 50 can also be improved.

Furthermore, the various aspects described above regarding the first, second, and third presentation modes can be combined with each other to the extent that no contradictions arise.

In this regard, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the various images (images of the effect symbols 50, character images, etc.) used to execute the various displays described above are displayed on multiple hierarchical display layers that are virtually arranged on top of each other at a predetermined distance. In each effect mode, by appropriately switching the display layer that displays the images, a character image is displayed behind (on the back side of) the number display section 51 of the effect symbol 50, superimposed on the number display section 51, or a character image is displayed inside the number display section 61 of the effect symbol 50.

(Modification)
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the performance pattern 50 is composed only of the number display section 51, which is a number-shaped display area (number patterns representing the numbers "1" to "9"), but the form of the performance pattern 50 is not limited to this.
For example, the effect pattern 50 may be a pattern that has, in addition to the number display section 51 (number pattern), a decorative display section that decorates the number display section 51 (for example, an emblem displayed over the number display section 51, a ring surrounding the number display section 51, etc.), or a card-shaped pattern that displays the number display section 51 or other images (for example, a facial image of a specified character, etc.). Even in such a case, the display of the effect pattern 50 and character image may be controlled in the same way as in the first, second, and third effect modes described above.
In this case, the same effects as those of the pachinko machine P according to the above-described embodiment can be achieved.

In this embodiment, the display of the changing performance pattern 50 is such that the performance pattern 50 scrolls downward, but the manner in which the display of the changing performance pattern 50 is displayed is not limited to this.
For example, the display patterns 50 may be arranged in a vertical row and the display may scroll to the left or right to produce a changing display, or the display patterns 50 may be displayed as if they are successively popping out from the back of the display unit 21a to the front to produce a changing display.
In this case, the same effects as those of the pachinko machine P according to the above-described embodiment can be achieved.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, three effect symbols 50, namely, the first stop symbol, the second stop symbol, and the third stop symbol, are provided, but the number of effect symbols 50 is not limited to this, and for example, two effect symbols 50 (first stop symbol, second stop symbol) may be provided, or four or more effect symbols 50 (first stop symbol, second stop symbol, third stop symbol, fourth stop symbol, etc.) may be provided. Even in such a case, the display of the effect symbols 50 and character images may be controlled in the same manner as in the first effect mode, second effect mode, and third effect mode described above.
In this case, the same effects as those of the pachinko machine P according to the above-described embodiment can be achieved.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, multiple presentation modes, namely, the first presentation mode, the second presentation mode, and the third presentation mode, can be set during the normal game state, but these presentation modes may be set in other game states (low probability time-shortened game state, high probability time-shortened game state). Also, different presentation modes may be set for each game state, or the same presentation mode may be set in any game state.
Furthermore, the presentation modes that can be installed in a pachinko machine are not limited to those described above, and for example, a presentation mode may be installed in which the display of a character image corresponding to the presentation pattern 50 is not executed. Furthermore, a pachinko machine does not need to be equipped with all of the presentation modes described above, and may be equipped with any one or more of the presentation modes.
In this case, the same effects as those of the pachinko machine P according to the above-described embodiment can be achieved.

The above-described embodiment can also be applied to gaming machines other than pachinko machines. For example, in slot machines that use gaming medals as gaming media, or Parrot (registered trademark) gaming machines that use gaming balls to play games similar to slot machines, the display of the effect symbols 50 and character images may be controlled in the same manner as in the first, second, and third presentation modes described above.

Furthermore, the right character image 52R in the second presentation mode in the above-mentioned embodiment corresponds to the presentation image of the present invention. Furthermore, the pachinko machine P in the above-mentioned embodiment corresponds to the gaming machine of the present invention. Furthermore, the center presentation symbol in the second presentation mode in the above-mentioned embodiment corresponds to the presentation symbol of the present invention. Furthermore, the center presentation symbol in the second presentation mode in the above-mentioned embodiment corresponds to the first presentation symbol of the present invention. Furthermore, the right presentation symbol in the second presentation mode in the above-mentioned embodiment corresponds to the second presentation symbol of the present invention. Furthermore, the right character image 52R in the second presentation mode in the above-mentioned embodiment corresponds to the presentation image displayed in response to the second presentation symbol of the present invention.

P Pachinko machine 10 Audio output device 21 Performance display device 100 Main control board 101 Main CPU
102 Main ROM
103 Main RAM
300 Sub-control board 301 Sub-CPU
302 Sub ROM
303 Sub RAM

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of executing variable display and stop display of a plurality of performance symbols used in variable performance suggesting the result of a predetermined lottery, and capable of displaying performance images corresponding to each performance symbol,
The plurality of performance symbols have a number display section which is a number-shaped display area,
The performance pattern is displayed in a predetermined manner and can be displayed so as to be visible from a predetermined timing during the display.
The effect image is not displayed in a variable manner according to the predetermined mode, and can be displayed so as to be visible from a timing different from the predetermined timing,
Before any of the effect patterns is stopped and displayed, a predetermined action is displayed by the effect image on the front side of the effect pattern, and after the action display is performed, the effect image is displayed on the back side of the effect pattern,
When the effect pattern is stopped and displayed, at least a part of the number display part of the effect pattern is displayed overlapping another effect image different from the effect image behind the other effect image, and then the number display part of the effect pattern is displayed in a reduced size so that the size of the overlapping part becomes smaller, and then the number display part of the effect pattern is displayed overlapping the other effect image in front of the other effect image.